USD 383 Board of Education

March 24, 2010
Kathy Dzewaltowski, observer

Work session:
The board was presented with the preliminary schematic designs for the construction project at Bluemont Elementary. The plans called for adding an addition on the north side of the building adjacent to the kindergarten wing and also adding space by filling in the open gap between the limestone portion of the building and the west addition.

Regular meeting:
Bruce Stiles, the district's business director, reported on a bill being considered in the Kansas House which would require districts to fund with local taxes 10% of the state per pupil funding. If the bill were to pass, Manhattan's mill levy would automatically increase by 2 mills.

The board discussed a report on the activities of the diversity program. State assessment scores for low-income students, English language learners, and African-American students have improved, although there is still an achievement gap between these students and white, middle class students. Dr. Tiffany Powell, diversity coordinator, developed the REAL Scholars Project that helps students develop leadership skills and encourages them to take challenging courses. Students involved with REAL Scholars have improved their GPAs, enrolled in advanced classes, and the seniors are all planning to attend a post-secondary program. Several members of the public addressed the board about the benefits of the diversity program as well as the importance of continuing the program.

Board members approved 7-0 to begin charging a $50 enrollment fee for the College Hill preschool program. This past year, the preschool had the problem of families pre-enrolling and then moving or making other arrangements before the school year started, leaving the district with several open slots. For families whose children attend the preschool, the $50 fee would be deducted from the first month's fees.

The board listened to a proposal for a summer program for students in the autism spectrum. The program would be funded through grants and fees and would not require district funds. The cost to the district would only be for the use of a facility, and the program could share the facility already scheduled to house the district's summer school program. The item was for discussion only, but board members were generally supportive of the summer program and the use of a district facility.

Board members decided to delay a discussion of hiring KPERS retirees until they hear the superintendent's budget recommendations.