The Chanute USD 413 Board of Education discussed state education legislation, district policy updates and emerging technology issues during its regular meeting Wednesday.
Superintendent Matt Koester provided a legislative update focused on special education funding and proposed bills that could significantly impact school districts. Koester said education advocates have recommended adding $10 million in special education funding for 2027, while approximately $26 million would be needed to maintain current funding levels.
Proposals under consideration could reduce the state’s share of special education funding to about 65 percent. Koester said the district transferred approximately $1.4 million to cover excess special education costs, a move that directly reduces funding available for other district needs.
Koester also raised concerns about proposed legislation that would impose civil penalties on school districts related to student speech, mental health services, bathroom designations and identification policies. Some bills would allow legal action against districts with minimum damages and daily penalties, which Koester described as alarming. He said the number of proposals reflects a broader shift away from local control.
During unfinished business, the board discussed updates to district policy, including language related to artificial intelligence. References to AI were removed from policy consideration, with Koester explaining the district plans to form a steering committee to develop guiding principles rather than formal policy.
The committee will include teachers from each building and some older students. Koester said staff are already encountering a wide range of responses to AI use, including students who object to using the technology entirely. Board members noted that many educational products now include AI tools, prompting discussion about how AI can enhance education while addressing concerns.
The board also discussed curriculum-related issues, including concerns related to religion in instructional materials. Board members expressed concern about placing unreasonable accountability on staff for content concerns and discussed ways to proactively communicate expectations to parents.
Board member Heather Guernsey moved to adopt the policy updates as presented, and the motion passed.
The board also approved the Chanute High School course catalog. Board member Jennifer May thanked staff for the extensive work involved and expressed appreciation for maintaining honors course offerings. Guernsey moved to adopt the catalog, and the motion passed.
