The Chanute Public Schools Board of Education approved a construction bid for the Future Farmers of America Animal Science Learning Center project during its recent meeting.
The FFA Animal Science Learning Center has been a work in progress for nearly five years according to Superintendent Matt Koester, who said discussions on this project began in 2020 or 2021.
“This project was completely fundraised,” Koester said.
The board approved a bid from Koehn Construction in the amount of $995,277. Adding a 5% contingency fund, a $25,000 professional services allowance, and a $25,000 furniture, fixtures and equipment allowance, brings the total project spending to $1,095,040.85.
The construction is expected to begin on June 1, with completion anticipated by Dec. 15. Koester said it was possible that the building may be used for classes as early as January 2026.
The board also recognized Gloria Ruggles, a Chanute Elementary School secretary, for her career of service to the district. Ruggles also recently received a UniServe Southeast A.P.P.L.E. Award.
“I still question why I’m getting it, I just do my job and show up for the kids,” Ruggles said. “Thank you all for being a part of my life.”
Board President Heather Guernsey said no one on the board was questioning why she would receive such an award.
“We are so grateful to know you,” Guernsey said, congratulating Ruggles on her award. The board thanked Ruggles for a career devoted to USD 413 students.
In other business, the board read an agreement with the Greenbush Health Trust for employee health insurance. Action will be taken on this measure during the next meeting. A transportation request was approved to allow district buses to transport Cherry Street Youth Center attendees to and from swimming lessons and Vacation Bible School. This approval requires Cherry Street Youth Center to maintain insurance, and that there are available drivers for such travel.
A three-year agreement with Paranormal Education was approved for a Student Success platform. Koester said this platform will pull all of a student’s data into one system. This system costs $33,005 per year, with year one’s costs totaling $38,255 including an integration fee.
In other new business, Cardigan Emergency Response Plan was first read, with action to be taken next month. These plans are required for all school buildings by law.
In unfinished business, the board discussed costs associated with changing the school colors and mascot at Royster Elementary School.
An estimated total cost for branding changes amounted to $124,400, which includes exterior signage, interior paint, rugs, benches, gym floor repainting, gym mats, bleacher cap replacement, and activity uniforms.
Board member Derek Waggoner questioned where this money would come from in the budget, which will be further discussed in a future meeting.
“We need to be prepared to make a decision in June,” Guernsey said.
The board also heard building activity reports from Chanute High School and Royster Middle School. Both schools saw over 80% participation in extracurricular activities and clubs.
CHS Activities and Athletic Director Nick Northern said students who participate in these activities are more likely to attend college, and have better academic outcomes.
The next Chanute public Schools Board of Education meeting will be held on Wednesday, June 4, at 6 p.m. at the USD 413 District Office at 321 E. Main Street.
