Dec. 18 - From the Superintendent
Hello, USD 231 Patrons and Employees.
Thank You
As we approach the winter break, I write to express my gratitude for your ongoing support this semester. Together, we have accomplished so much, and I’m proud of the progress our students and staff have made in the past six months.
Our students continue to thrive, in large part to our families and employee's unified efforts.
As we enter this well-deserved break, I encourage everyone to take time to rest, recharge, and enjoy moments with loved ones.
To view a video message from Board President, Tom Reddin, and me, please click HERE.
Winter Break Schedule
Friday, December 20
- Elementary - No School
- Middle School - 12:30 p.m. dismissal, Lunch Served
- High School - 11:00 a.m. dismissal, NO LUNCH
December 23 - January 6 - No School.
January 7 - School Resumes
Bond Planning Update
During the December 9, 2024, meeting, the Board of Education approved a resolution authorizing and providing for the calling of a bond election in Unified School District No. 231, Johnson County, Kansas, Gardiner, Edgerton, for the purpose of submitting to the qualified electors of the district the question of issuing general obligation bonds of the district, authorizing application to the State Board of Education for the authority to call the bond election and for capital improvement, state aid, and providing for the giving of notice of said bond election.
This ballot language will be sent to voters in April 2025. The bond projects are shown below.
Note - Projects listed in Option 1 are the top priority and will be completed first, if the bond passes. Projects listed in Option 2 will only be completed if funds are available after Option 1 projects are completed.
For more information, visit our Bond Planning Website, where you can review our progress and future direction.
Board of Education Committees
As shared last month, the Board of Education values and relies on patron involvement to enhance our district's strength and quality. One key way to engage patrons is through Board of Education subcommittees, which increase board and community member participation in district matters.
This month I've highlighted the Educational Services Advisory Committee in hopes of inspiring you to consider joining as a future member.
To learn more about the Board subcommittees or express interest in serving, click HERE.
Wishing you a safe, joyful holiday season and a happy new year. We look forward to welcoming everyone back on Tuesday, January 7.
Sincerely,
Brian
#WeAreUSD231 #Forwardas23ONE #VisionForward
Educational Services Advisory Committee
The committee reviews curriculum, instruction, and assessment topics, including proposed curriculum and textbook adoptions. The committee also reviews the accreditation process, progress, Curriculum Standards, Building Report Cards, and Federal programs.The goals and functions of the ESAC include:
- Assess the effectiveness of existing educational programs, curriculum, and instructional services.
- Recommend changes or improvements based on data, feedback, and best practices.
Support Strategic Planning
- Provide input for the district’s strategic goals related to academics, student achievement, and support services.
- Help align programs with the district's vision and priorities.
- Serve as a bridge between stakeholders, such as administrators, teachers, parents, students, and community members.
- Foster dialogue to ensure multiple perspectives are considered.
- Identify gaps in services and recommend solutions to support diverse learners, including students requiring intervention or enrichment.
- Review and offer feedback on proposed policies, instructional initiatives, and educational resources.
- Ensure the district’s actions are evidence-based and student-focused.
- Encourage community participation in educational initiatives and services.
- Build trust and transparency by involving stakeholders in decision-making.
- Track progress on goals related to academic outcomes, professional development, and student support services.
- Review data to provide actionable recommendations.
This committee plays a vital role in supporting continuous improvement and ensuring the district meets the academic and social-emotional needs of all students effectively.
To express interest in serving on this committee, click HERE.
On November 7, our school district hosted a Screen Sanity training for parents and caregivers of students in Kindergarten through 8th grade. The training included tips and tricks to safely raise happy, healthy kids in an increasingly digital world. For those not able to attend, we are excited to share a free recorded webinar that will cover the same important information.
Please click on the link Screen Sanity Webinar. It should take you directly to the webinar. If it takes you to a registration page instead, please register and the link will be emailed to you at no cost.
To learn more about Screen Sanity, click HERE.
