Watch a full replay of the May 14, 2024 BOE meeting on the Excelsior Citizen YouTube Channel. (Audio issues from the livestream have been corrected in this uploaded version.)
The Excelsior Springs Board of Education convened on Tuesday, May 14, 2024, at the Support Services Center with a hefty agenda reflecting ongoing efforts to address various educational and operational needs.
The meeting covered a range of issues, from approving financial reports and bills to discussing updates in policies and educational programs. Notably, the board approved numerous personnel changes, including resignations and new hires, underscoring ongoing changes within the district’s schools.
One of the highlights of the meeting was the generous donation of $1,000 each to Lewis and Elkhorn Elementary Schools’ lunch programs by the Elks Lodge Grant Committee, represented by Renee Sisk. Dr. Melissa Miller, representing the Educational Foundation, gratefully accepted the donations on behalf of the schools. Those also in attendance with Ms. Sisk included Jr. Boyce, Jolene Loftin, Rhonda Amos, and Judy Roos.
In recognition of their exceptional dedication and service, the Excelsior Springs School District honored Jeffrey Callister and Tyler Bodnar as the Certified Employees of the Month for May. Both members of the maintenance department, Callister and Bodnar have distinguished themselves through their commitment to ensuring a safe and functional learning environment for all students and staff. Their hard work and reliability have not only improved the daily operations of the schools but have also contributed significantly to the overall maintenance of the district’s facilities, earning them well-deserved accolades from colleagues and the community alike.
The board took a moment to honor the dedicated service of several retiring staff members, whose combined tenures amassed over 133 years at Excelsior Springs School District. Recognized retirees included Diana Gallman, a paraprofessional at Lewis Elementary with 24 years of service; Athena Gillespie, who spent 21 years teaching music at Lewis Elementary and has a total of 26 years in education; Brian Smarker and Ed Gouldsmith, both of whom dedicated 20 years at the Career Center, teaching Computer Technology and Electrical Trades, respectively. Special Education teacher Nancy Haas served at Cornerstone Elementary for 24 years, with 28 years in the field. Penny Kramer, a science teacher at the high school, contributed six years to Excelsior Springs but has taught for 27 years. Leslie Leonhard, Process Coordinator at Lewis Elementary, had 17 years in the district and 27 years in education. Linda Steffens, a 1st-grade teacher at Elkhorn Elementary, brought 16 years to Excelsior Springs, totaling 28 years in education. Lastly, Jodi Stewart, a Special Education teacher at the Early Childhood Center, concluded five years with Excelsior Springs and 24 years overall in education.
The board discussed critical policy updates, such as the prohibition against illegal discrimination and the integration of artificial intelligence into the curriculum. These policy updates are in their first reading phase and reflect the board’s proactive stance on adapting to modern educational challenges.
Another significant aspect of the meeting was Dr. Tomlinson’s preliminary review of the FY2024 budget, who highlighted a projected deficit that may necessitate a tax levy increase or staffing adjustments. The board engaged in a detailed discussion about the implications of such financial constraints on the district’s future operations.
In the area of human resources, Dr. Bullimore presented worrying data on staff turnover and current vacancies, sparking a discussion on the need for strategic hiring and retention plans.
The meeting concluded with plans for the next gathering scheduled for June 25th, which will likely continue to address these ongoing challenges and the district’s responses to them. The meeting is later in the month of June in order to allow for expenditures to be made before July 1st, which is the start of the fiscal year.
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