By: Ryan Duey
Photo Courtesy of USD 379
Lisa Last and school representatives updated the Board on ‘Leader in Me’ learning. The program focuses on teaching social-emotional and leadership skills, including communication, goal setting, problem-solving, and conflict resolution.
The Board was given the monthly Principal Reports. Reports highlight student attendance, Parent-teacher conferences, and more.
Board President Jason Bergsten reported that he was pleased to see the community come together to vote and pass the bond earlier in the month.
Superintendent Brett Nelson provided his Superintendent’s Report to the Board. He provided the KSDE Audit for fiscal year 2026. The audit was for the weighted enrollment summary for the district. The overall summary and audit are designed for funding purposes. The summary can be found on the District website under the Board minutes. The report also reviewed the next steps for the District now that the Bond has passed, which include issuing contracts, project bidding, and a planned time for construction work.
Anita Breen, TLEC Director, presented her monthly report. Three Spring Child Checks will be held on March 13th, in Linn, Hanover, and Randolph. The report gave a rundown of special education eligibility services, also.
Jaclyn Pfizenmaier, Director of Curriculum and Instruction, presented her monthly report. They will be in Salina this week with KSDE, solidifying the District’s one-year action plan for accreditation. The report featured planned summer opportunities for students this summer. Project Lead Learning Camps for elementary students will begin on June 1st, with two half-day weeks offered in June. Middle and High school students will be offered a one-week credit recovery program for students who need it. The 3rd quarter ends on March 13th, with spring break being the following week. Report cards will be distributed on March 27th.
The Board previewed new courses for the next school year. Two new courses described in the report are Interactive Media and STEAM courses for Middle School students.
A motion was made to hold a special meeting on April 13th to tour USD 379 facilities; the motion carried.
Bids for new technology were unanimously approved, which include new tablets and Chromebooks.
After reviewing Capital Outlay projects, the Board moved to add Wakefield Roof B replacement to the 2025-2026 Outlay plan. Motion carried 6-1, with Shanna Sterling opposing. The Board also reviewed instrument proposals for the district bands.
The Board moved to approve the amended dual sport participation guidelines for the spring semester. Dual athletic participation may be granted on a year-by-year basis if a sport is at risk of not having enough participants. Motion carried.
The meeting ended with the approval of personnel, including the employment of KaCee James as the new CCCHS Assistant Principal/AD.
Board minutes are available on the USD 379 District’s website.
