From the Superintendent
Hello, USD 231 Patrons and Employees.
Winter Weather Reminders
As you know, the weather has presented some challenges as we've started the second semester; hopefully, we've seen the last snow and ice that might lead to more school closures.
As a district, we know the implications of opening schools during less-than-perfect conditions and closing schools when poor weather conditions exist or are predicted. Our primary consideration is the safety of our students, staff, and parents.
Because the district encompasses 100 square miles of Johnson County, the weather can vary significantly, as can road conditions, in different parts of the county. Major roadways may be in good driving condition, but neighborhood and rural roads may remain treacherous.
District students typically travel to school in five ways. Some ride on school buses, some walk to schools or bus stops, some are driven by their parents, some drive themselves, and some are driven by other students. When the school system considers the impact of weather conditions on the ability to open schools, it considers all these methods of transportation.
Some staff members and bus drivers leave home as early as 5:00 a.m. Many working parents need time to make last-minute arrangements for child care. Accordingly, the school system makes every effort to make decisions regarding inclement weather closings or delays prior to 6:00 a.m. Once I make the decision, it takes approximately 15 - 20 minutes to complete notifying local media, updating the website, and sending text messages.
Oftentimes, snow, sleet, or freezing rain does not start until between 5:00 a.m. and 8:00 a.m. This sometimes results in schools opening when the conditions are worse than anticipated and closing on days when the weather ends up not being as bad as forecasted. On some days, our residents experience better conditions in some areas of the county and very dangerous conditions in other parts of the county.
The district understands no perfect decision exists. Our goal is to err on the side of caution for the safety of all.
And, finally, two reminders:
Always remember that each parent should be prepared to make the best decision for his or her own child as it relates to attending school on questionable weather days.
In the event USD 231 closes school due to inclement weather or other emergencies, the information is communicated as soon as the decision is made in the following ways:
Posted on our website
Posted on social media (Facebook and Twitter)
Local television stations (ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC)
Sincerely,
Brian
#WeAreUSD231 #Forwardas23ONE #VisionForward
Facility and Construction Advisory Committee
The Facility and Construction Advisory Committee serves in overseeing and guiding construction, renovation, and facility improvement projects. The purpose of this committee includes the following:
Planning and Oversight:
- Assessing the district's facility needs, including capacity, safety, and modernization requirements.
- Reviewing and approving construction plans, designs, and timelines to ensure alignment with district goals.
- Monitoring progress to ensure projects are completed on time and within budget.
Community Representation:
- Acting as a liaison between the school district, community, and stakeholders.
- Ensuring transparency and accountability for taxpayer funds allocated for construction projects.
- Gathering input from the community to ensure projects address the needs of students, staff, and families.
Budget Management:
- Reviewing funding sources (e.g., bond measures, grants, district funds) and ensuring proper allocation of resources.
- Approving cost estimates and tracking expenditures to prevent overspending.
Compliance and Safety:
- Ensuring all construction projects comply with local, state, and federal building codes and regulations.
- Monitoring safety protocols during construction to minimize disruptions to school operations and protect students and staff.
Vendor and Contractor Selection:
- Participating in the selection of architects, contractors, and other professionals needed for the project.
- Reviewing bids and making recommendations for contract awards.
Evaluation and Reporting:
- Conducting periodic reviews and evaluations of project milestones and deliverables.
- Providing regular updates and reports to the school board, administration, and community.
Future Planning:
- Assessing long-term needs for facilities and recommending priorities for future construction or renovation projects.
In summary, this committee ensures that facility projects are strategically managed, fiscally responsible, and aligned with the educational mission of the district.
To express interest in serving on this committee, click HERE.
