Photo Courtesy of USD 379
After the public Revenue Neutral Rate/Budget Hearing, a move was made to exceed the RNR for the 2025-2026 Budget. Motion carried unanimously. The Hearing then closed, and the regular meeting began.
A letter from Varney & Associates was presented to the Board regarding the delay in issuing the yearly audit to USD 379. No issues were found in the audit, but due to supplemental delays, they cannot release the findings until they can confirm all new guidelines are followed.
Brett Nelson, Superintendent, presented the monthly Superintendent report. The 2025 Kansas Teacher Retention Survey will open up for districts on September 29th, with a link being sent to the superintendent to distribute to teachers. Current student enrollment numbers show a total of 1,227 students across USD 379, down from 1,257 last year.
Anita Breen, TLEC Director, presented the monthly TLEC report. KSDE has been working on an audit of TLEC, and they are awaiting the results. The report showed that TLEC has staff working on the Teacher Apprentice Program, which is now offered at various universities. This program allows paraeducators to become teachers without the need for a full 4-year degree. Once the Program is completed, staff will earn a BS in Early Childhood Education.
Jaclyn Pfizenmaier, Director of Curriculum and Instruction, presented her monthly report. The official enrollment count day for funding is set for September 22nd this year, since the 20th falls on a Saturday. The report also outlined upcoming Professional Learning days, Driver’s Education updates, Project Lead programs, online opportunities for students, and more.
The Board reviewed the Budget Needs Assessment for the 2025-2026 Budget year. After much discussion, a move to adopt Resolution No. 09-08-25-B was made. Motion carried 5-1, with Dave Jermark opposing the resolution.
The Board then reviewed and discussed Bond Planning options. The two different options are available for viewing on the Board website. Motions were made to approve either SPT or HTK as the architectural firm that will assist with planning and preparation of projects related to the bond election. Motion carried 4-3 to approve HTK as the firm. Linda Sleichter, Andy Auld, and Tracy Claeys opposed this motion and were the only three in favor of SPT, which failed 3-4.
The Board moved to extend USD 379’s boundary West along Hwy 24 to 260th Rd., and South to Ute Rd. if or when USD 334 completes the dissolution process. Motion carried unanimously.
The meeting ended with the approval of employee hirings and resignations. Board minutes can be found on the USD 379 website.
