Kathy Dzewaltowski, observer
Work session:
The work session focused on the MHS construction project with the architects presenting ideas that they have developed for adding space to the building. Possible options included "wrapping" new space around most of the existing exterior, adding space in a "book end" design in the NE and SW corners of the building, and adding space in an "efficiency" scheme that puts the new space all in one location. The architects want to create space that will be flexible and adaptable as the needs of education change over the next 20 years.
Regular meeting:
The board was presented with information about how the state may be reducing funding during the school year and possible scenarios for how that would affect the district's budget. Administration is anticipating that the state may reduce state aid by $200 per pupil, which would result in a decrease of over $1 million in the district's budget.
The schematic design for Northview Elementary was presented to the board. The board expressed concerns about dedicating space for laptop cart storage because technology needs will change in the future. Northview's principal also expressed her concerns that the design does not provide enough classroom space, and board members responded that Northview's attendance boundary could be redrawn to alleviate crowding. The board approved the schematic design 7-0.
The board also approved 7-0 to award Ogden Elementary's construction project to Champion Builders of Topeka.
The board approved 7-0 to adopt the Botvin Life Skills Training program, which is a substance abuse prevention program that will replace the D.A.R.E. program that the police department had decided to cease offering. The city's Special Alcohol Tax Funding committee will be providing the funding for a program coordinator and a program specialist.
Board members discussed whether the district should join the Schools For Fair Funding (SFFF) organization. The district had been part of SFFF in 2006 when a lawsuit was filed against the state of Kansas for failing to adequately fund public education, and the SFFF group may pursue legal action against the state again. To join SFFF, the district would be asked to contribute $5 per student, which amounts to $27,860. Board members were concerned about the cost to join SFFF, other state agencies also in need of funding from the state, and the lack of available state funds due to the poor economy. Several board members didn't think that suing the state was the answer to funding problems for education. Pete Paukstelis was in disagreement and felt that suing the state did work in 2006 and resulted in a dramatic increase in state funding. Paukstelis also said the Legislature has the power to provide additional funding to education in spite of the poor economy by expanding the tax base. The board voted 6-1 to not join SFFF, with Paukstelis dissenting.
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