USD 231 Board Briefs (Jan. 2025)

Dr. Brad Drace, GSE Principal, introduced students and staff members who presented an overview of the Behavior Intervention Support Team (BIST) and the positive impact it has had at their school. Students shared three key life goals: making good choices despite strong feelings, maintaining personal well-being regardless of others' behavior, and persevering through challenges.

Teachers described the program's proactive approach to behavior management and positive school culture. They highlighted successes including improved student behavior, increased instructional time, and effective collaboration among staff.

To view the slide deck, click HERE.

USD 231 is proud of our partnerships with many stakeholders (students, parents, employees, churches, local vendors, etc.). Often, due to these partnerships, our students and employees are the recipients of generous donations.

To view a list of recent donations and grants, click the icon on the right/above.

Ian Kilpatrick with DLR, provided an update on the ongoing bond campaign for USD 231, highlighting key progress and next steps. Since April 2024, the team has worked diligently to finalize a $100 million bond scope with no mill levy increase. This plan impacts all district facilities, bringing significant improvements across all grade levels.

Progress Achievements:

• Finalized bond scope after extensive conversations.
• Published a notice of intent for the bond referendum in a local newspaper.
• Submitted an application to the State Department of Education (KSDE) for review.
• Filed election documents with the county clerk.
• Completed a meeting with KSDE for the bond application.

Looking Ahead:

• January 15: State Board of Education meeting to approve exceeding the district's debt limit.
• February & March: Notices of the bond election will be published.
• March 11: Voter registration deadline.
• April 1: Special bond election.

Bond Campaign Focus: The campaign involves two distinct efforts:

1. Fact-Based Communications: USD 231 will distribute flyers, postcards, and other materials across all campuses, providing clear information about the bond, including its scope, cost, and voting details.
2. Community Engagement: The Vote Yes Committee will amplify these efforts, encouraging community participation and awareness.

Residents are encouraged to register to vote and participate in this critical bond election. Your voice matters!

To view the slide deck, click HERE.

• 3.1 - 3.3 - Approval of nomination and election of Tom Reddin for Board of Education President for 2025; Approval of nomination and election of Greg Chapman for Board of Education Vice President for 2025; Approval of Board Meeting Dates for the School Year 2025-2026.
• 7.1 - 7.5 - Approval of minutes from the Board Meeting on December 9, 2024; Approval of financial statements; Approval of Middle/High School Course Fee Schedule; Approval of Contracts/Purchases; Approval of Claims.
• 11.2 - Approved the Personnel report.

​Board Briefs are informal reports from the Gardner Edgerton Board of Education's regular meetings. They are typically released a day or two after each meeting and are not meant to be accepted as meeting minutes.

To view previous Board Briefs, click the image on the right.

Monday, February 10, 2025 - 6:00 p.m.