The Chanute USD 413 Board of Education met March 5 to review district initiatives, approve several projects and hear updates on finances, legislation and construction projects affecting the district.
Board member Dr. Bruce Lee was absent. The meeting agenda was approved unanimously following a motion by board member Heather Guernsey.
Board members also unanimously approved the consent agenda, which included accepting a $300 grant from the Kansas Music Educators Association to fund a puppet stage for Mendy Burnett’s classroom.
Superintendent Matt Koester reported the district recently completed a headcount audit through the Kansas State Department of Education. The district originally reported a full-time enrollment of 1,593 students, but the audit adjusted the number to 1,580. Koester said the change affects the district’s funding formula and is expected to reduce state aid by roughly $100,000 once final numbers are calculated later this year.
Koester also provided updates on several construction projects. The district’s new FFA building has been completed.
Plans for a proposed childcare center at the district’s early learning center remain under review after construction bids came in approximately 15% higher than expected. District leaders are working with contractors to examine options before making final decisions. Because of the higher bids and additional planning needed, Koester said the center will not open by August as originally hoped. The district expects the project could cost between $400,000 and $500,000 depending on adjustments.
Koester also updated the board on developments in the Kansas Legislature. Both the Kansas House and Senate have passed budget proposals, but the plans must still be reconciled in conference committee. The House proposal includes about $10 million in funding while the Senate version includes $6 million — both below the roughly $24 million districts had sought. Koester also noted one positive change: lawmakers removed schools from certain revenue-restriction requirements, which he said is beneficial because districts have limited control over revenue sources.
Board member Heather Guernsey discussed special education data related to the ANW Special Education Cooperative. District data shows about 21% of students in the cooperative receive services, compared with roughly 17% across many other interlocal programs in the state. Administrators said the difference may stem from how districts identify students who qualify for services, noting that the cooperative may be using broader identification methods. Officials said they want to ensure students who need services are properly identified without reducing support.
The board unanimously approved a capital outlay project that will replace a single batting cage with two batting cages that can be used year round at Chanute High School. The bid also included a divider for the elementary school gym for a total cost of $46,889.55.
District staff also presented a recommendation to adopt the i-Ready math curriculum following a yearlong evaluation process. Teachers and curriculum leaders said the review began last May and involved monthly meetings, standards analysis and classroom observations before narrowing the decision to two final programs. CES Principal Brooke Wire told board members the program emphasizes conceptual understanding, real-world problem solving and resources for students who need additional practice. The curriculum also includes professional development and instructional support for teachers over a six-year period.
Koester said the materials will remain available for community members to review before any final adoption vote.
Board members also approved a revised school calendar after learning federal education funding would continue for programs under Title II, III and IV. The change restores a professional development day on Oct. 19 while keeping May 20 as a day off for students. Board member Jennifer May made the motion to approve the revised calendar.
The board also approved a fencing project for approximately five acres near the district’s agricultural facilities to create holding pens and access areas behind the building. The work will be completed by Whites Welding and Fencing, with costs reimbursed through the district’s foundation.
During board comments, members praised several district initiatives. Guernsey thanked administrators for acknowledging areas where the district could improve and working toward solutions. Board member Steve Cunningham expressed excitement about the new animal science program and the opportunities it provides for students to work with livestock.
Administrators also highlighted student and community engagement efforts, including volunteer projects and fundraising activities such as pie sales by middle school students.
Koester concluded by thanking board members and staff for their collaboration and commitment to improving the district.
