Unified School District 497 public meetings in 2023

Notice of Board Self Evaluation

The Lawrence Public Schools Board of Education will hold its annual self-evaluation meeting on December 19, 2023. The meeting is procedural and informational only, with no board business or decisions to be made.

• Board self-evaluation pursuant to Board Policy BCAC
• Meeting at 110 McDonald Drive, Lawrence, KS, from 5:30-6:30 p.m.
• No action or board business discussed

Board Business Meeting

The board will recess into executive session to discuss employer-employee negotiations, then return to open session with no action to follow. They will also consider a consent agenda including approval of monthly vouchers for the period 11/23/2023 through 12/06/2023, financial reports for October 2023, a personnel report, and meeting minutes. Special recognitions will be given to West Middle School, Lawrence College and Career Center students, and a retiring staff member.

• Executive session for contract negotiations
• Approval of monthly vouchers for 11/23/2023–12/06/2023
• Approval of financial reports ending October 31, 2023
• Approval of personnel report
• Approval of meeting minutes from Nov 27, 2023

The Board of Education approved a service agreement for district-wide fire alarm inspections and adopted the consent agenda, including financial reports and personnel updates. The meeting also served as the final session for outgoing board members Erica Hill and Paula Vann.

• Approved $50,512.50 fire alarm testing contract with Tech Electronics of Kansas (7-0)
• Approved agenda for December 11, 2023 meeting (6-0)
• Approved consent agenda including personnel report and meeting minutes (7-0)
• Approved district and school disbursements for 11/23/2023 through 12/06/2023 (7-0)
• Approved financial reports for period ending October 31, 2023 (7-0)
• Recessed to executive session for contract negotiations (7-0)

Board Report(s) Meeting

The Lawrence school board is meeting to approve routine consent agenda items, including acceptance of a $75,000 PTO donation for new playground equipment at Langston Hughes Elementary and a $58,630 contract for roofing surveys at six district buildings. No separate discussion items are scheduled beyond the consent agenda.

• Accept $75,000 donation from Langston Hughes PTO for playground equipment
• Approve $58,630 roofing survey contract with Norton & Schmidt for six schools
• Approve monthly disbursements for 11/09/2023 – 11/22/2023
• Adopt personnel report and meeting minutes from Nov 13
• No special recognition or public comment agenda items

The Board of Education approved a safety platform featuring wearable panic alert badges for six specific school buildings. Other actions included accepting a $75,000 playground donation and approving a district-wide roofing survey proposal.

• Approved CENTEGIX Wearable Panic Alert Badge System for six buildings: $284,400 one-time fee and $49,200 annual expense for five years (6-0)
• Approved $58,630 proposal from Norton & Schmidt Consulting Engineers for roof replacement consulting (6-0)
• Accepted $75,000 donation from Langston Hughes PTO for playground equipment (6-0)
• Approved district and school disbursements for 11/09/2023 through 11/22/2023 (6-0)
• Approved personnel report (6-0)
• Approved meeting minutes (6-0)

Board Business Meeting

The Lawrence Board of Education will discuss and vote on three items removed from the consent agenda: second reading of Board Policy JBCC on enrollment of nonresident students, a proposal from TrustCentric Consulting, and a Neighborhood Revitalization Area rebate for 1000 New Hampshire Street. The board previously approved routine items including financial reports, monthly vouchers, personnel report, and first-read policies as part of the consent agenda.

• Second reading of Board Policy JBCC - Enrollment of Nonresident Students
• TrustCentric Consulting Proposal
• 1000 New Hampshire Street NRA Rebate
• Approval of consent agenda including financial reports, vouchers, personnel report, and first-read policies
• Special recognition for Quail Run Elementary showcase and P.E. Teacher of the Year

The Board of Education approved the meeting agenda and the consent agenda, which included the October 23, 2023 meeting minutes and financial reports for the period ending September 30, 2023. Several items were removed from the consent agenda to be discussed under new business.

• Approved meeting agenda (7-0)
• Approved October 23, 2023 meeting minutes (7-0)
• Approved Cash Summary, Budget to Actual Summary, and Budget to Actual Summary for Donations, Grants, Athletics, and Activities for period ending September 30, 2023 (7-0)
• Tabled Board Policy JBCC - Enrollment of Nonresident Students - Second Reading for new business
• Tabled TrustCentric Consulting Proposal for new business
• Tabled 1000 New Hampshire Street NRA Rebate for new business

Board Report(s) Meeting

The board is holding a public hearing on proposed policy JBCC, which addresses enrollment of nonresident students as required by state legislation effective January 1, 2024. A work session on Lawrence Virtual School will provide information on funding, state requirements, and staffing. The consent agenda includes approval of a $55,817 bid for chilled water pump work at Woodlawn Elementary School, as well as routine items such as meeting minutes, personnel report, and monthly vouchers.

• Public hearing on Board Policy JBCC – Enrollment of Nonresident Students
• Work session on Lawrence Virtual School funding, enrollment, and staffing
• Bid approval: $55,817 for chilled water pumps at Woodlawn Elementary School (ESSER and Capital Outlay funds)
• Approval of monthly vouchers for period 10/05/2023 – 10/18/2023
• Approval of personnel report

The Board of Education conducted a public hearing regarding the adoption of Board Policy JBCC concerning the enrollment of nonresident students. No members of the public spoke during the hearing. The Board also approved the meeting agenda, the consent agenda, the October 9 minutes, and the personnel report.

• Opened public hearing for Board Policy JBCC - Enrollment of Nonresident Students (6-0)
• Closed public hearing for Board Policy JBCC - Enrollment of Nonresident Students (6-0)
• Approved meeting agenda (6-0)
• Adopted items on the Consent Agenda (6-0)
• Approved October 9, 2023 meeting minutes (6-0)
• Approved Personnel Report (6-0)

Board Business Meeting

The Lawrence Board of Education is meeting for a regular business meeting. The board will consider a consent agenda that includes a boiler replacement at Deerfield Elementary School for $31,824, approval of monthly vouchers, preliminary financial reports, and a personnel report. The meeting also includes recognition of school security officers and the SRO program, and public comment.

• Boiler replacement at Deerfield Elementary School – bid from BCI Mechanical, Inc. for $31,824 from Capital Outlay funds
• Approval of monthly vouchers (disbursements Sept 21 – Oct 4, 2023)
• Approval of preliminary financial reports (Cash Summary, Budget to Actual) for period ending June 30, 2023
• Personnel report acceptance
• Special recognitions: Free State and Lawrence High security officers, LKPD SRO program award, SRO of the Year Kacey Wiltz

The Board of Education approved the meeting agenda and adopted the consent agenda. This included the acceptance of the personnel report and the approval of district and school disbursements for the period of September 21 through October 4, 2023.

• Approved meeting agenda (7-0)
• Adopted Consent Agenda (7-0)
• Accepted meeting minutes (6-0)
• Accepted personnel report (6-0)
• Approved district and school disbursements for 09/21/2023 through 10/04/2023 (6-0)

Board Report(s) Meeting

The Lawrence Public Schools Board met to approve the agenda and adopt routine consent items. It approved payment of $34,754.17 to the Douglas County Clerk for the August 1 primary election and authorized a three‑year Athletic Training Service Contract with Lawrence Memorial Hospital for up to $35,488. Additional items included adoption of meeting minutes, a personnel report, and support for a playground shade structure at Hillcrest Elementary.

• Approval of the meeting agenda
• Adoption of consent agenda items: September 11, 2023 minutes and personnel report
• Payment of $34,754.17 to Douglas County Clerk for the August 1, 2023 primary election
• Approval of Athletic Training Service Contract with Lawrence Memorial Hospital (cost not to exceed $35,488, 2023‑2026)
• Support for Playground Shade Structure at Hillcrest Elementary School

Board Business Meeting

The board opened and closed two budget hearings: one on the revenue neutral rate and one on the fiscal year 2023-24 budget. Both hearings were opened and closed with unanimous votes. No specific tax rate or budget totals are provided in the agenda.

• Open budget hearing on revenue neutral rate
• Close budget hearing on revenue neutral rate
• Open budget hearing for SY 2023-24 budget
• Close budget hearing for SY 2023-24 budget

The Board of Education conducted public budget hearings for the Revenue Neutral Rate and the SY 2023-24 Budget. The board also approved the meeting agenda and the consent agenda, which included personnel reports and monthly vouchers.

• Opened and closed Revenue Neutral Rate budget hearing (7-0)
• Opened and closed SY 2023-24 Budget hearing (7-0)
• Approved meeting agenda (7-0)
• Approved Consent Agenda (7-0)
• Accepted meeting minutes (7-0)
• Accepted personnel report (7-0)
• Approved district and school disbursements for 08/24/2023 through 09/06/2023 (7-0)
• Recessed to Executive Session for personnel matters (7-0)

Board Report(s) Meeting

The Lawrence Public Schools Board of Education is meeting to discuss and vote on a consent agenda that includes routine items such as minutes, personnel report, and monthly vouchers, as well as specific purchases and a legal settlement. Items up for approval include a $33,000 subscription to TeachTown enCORE for special education and acceptance of $85,573 from the Altria/JUUL Labs litigation settlement.

• Approval of $33,000 purchase of TeachTown enCORE special education software subscription
• Acceptance of $85,573 from Altria lawsuit settlement related to JUUL Labs litigation
• Recognition of LMH Junior Volunteers
• Approval of monthly vouchers for disbursements from 08/10/2023 to 08/23/2023
• Approval of personnel report

The Board of Education approved a consent agenda including a $1.1M staffing contract with Sunbelt-Blazerworks and several service contracts for the 2023-2024 school year. The board also accepted a lawsuit settlement payment and approved software purchases for special education and facilities management.

• Approved Sunbelt-Blazerworks staffing contract not to exceed $1,100,000 (7-0)
• Accepted $85,573.00 from Altria JUUL Labs litigation settlement (7-0)
• Approved two Cornerstones of Care Services contracts, each not to exceed $45,000 (7-0)
• Approved two Lake Mary Services contracts, each not to exceed $65,000 (7-0)
• Approved TeachTown enCORE purchase not to exceed $33,000 (7-0)
• Approved FMX facilities and operations software renewal for $28,800 (7-0)
• Approved district and school disbursements for 08/10/2023 through 08/23/2023 (7-0)
• Approved personnel report and meeting minutes (7-0)

Board Business Meeting

The Lawrence School Board is meeting for a regular business session. The main action item is approving a $85,000 contract with BrightStar Contracted Services to provide one-to-one nursing services for students with disabilities. The board will also adopt routine consent agenda items including meeting minutes, a personnel report, and monthly disbursement vouchers. The meeting began with a closed executive session to discuss personnel matters.

• BrightStar Contracted Services contract, not to exceed $85,000, for 2023-2024 special education nursing services
• Approval of monthly vouchers (disbursements) for period July 20 through August 9, 2023
• Acceptance of personnel report for the meeting
• Board recessed into executive session to discuss personnel matters of non-elected personnel

The Board of Education approved a series of service contracts for the 2023-2024 school year and various facility maintenance projects. The board also approved the personnel report and monthly vouchers. A motion to add a third member to the board Negotiations Committee was proposed.

• Approved Supplemental Contracted Services contract not to exceed $650,000
• Approved Stepping Stones Group Contracted Services contract not to exceed $325,000
• Approved Cisco Flex Maintenance renewal through ConvergeOne for $90,648
• Approved BrightStar Contracted Services contract not to exceed $85,000
• Approved Epic Staffing Contracted Services contract not to exceed $60,000
• Approved annual boiler maintenance with P1 Service, LLC for $53,876
• Approved exterior stone work at Free State High School by CDC Masonry & Scaffold Access for $22,598
• Approved donation of stadium plaques for Free State and Lawrence High Schools estimated at $4,390

Board Report(s) Meeting

The Lawrence Public Schools Board will adopt the meeting agenda and routine consent agenda items, including minutes, personnel report, and monthly vouchers. It will vote to approve the purchase of 1,700 Desmos Math Student Licenses (Grades 6‑A1 Algebra 1) for up to $25,500 from the Student Materials Revolving Fund. The board will also adopt the schedule of fees for the 2023‑24 school year. A public comment period is provided for community input.

• Approval of the meeting agenda (motion passed).
• Adoption of consent agenda items: minutes, personnel report, and monthly vouchers.
• Purchase of 1,700 Desmos Math Student Licenses Grades 6‑A1 (Algebra 1) not to exceed $25,500.00, funded by the Student Materials Revolving Fund.
• Approval of the schedule of enrollment and other fees for the 2023‑24 school year.
• Public comment segment allowing up to three‑minute remarks from patrons.

The Board of Education approved a series of expenditures for software licenses, educational resources, and building management systems. The meeting also included recognition for past board president Shannon Kimball and LMH Health Leadership Academy students.

• Approved agenda for July 24, 2023 meeting
• Approved personnel report
• Approved district and school disbursements for 06/29/2023 through 07/19/2023
• Approved $25,500 purchase of Desmos Math Student Licenses for grades 6-A1
• Approved 2023-24 school year schedule of fees
• Approved $37,750 renewal of ClassLink site licenses and Analytics Plus
• Approved $83,893 for VRF Controls from Trane and $131,978 for building management system conversion
• Approved $33,820 renewal contract with digiCoach

Organizational/Board Business Meeting

The board swore in new member Bob Byers, then elected Kelly Jones as president and Bob Byers as vice president. The consent agenda was approved, with items 2.19 and 2.28 moved to new business. The board also recessed to executive session for personnel matters.

• Swearing in of new board member Bob Byers
• Kelly Jones elected board president, Bob Byers elected vice president
• Consent agenda approved, with items 2.19 and 2.28 moved to new business
• Executive session for personnel matters

The Board of Education elected its new leadership and swore in Bob Byers to fill an unexpired term. The board also approved the meeting agenda and adopted the consent agenda, excluding two items for further discussion.

• Sworn in Bob Byers to fill unexpired term through January 12, 2026
• Approved meeting agenda (7-0)
• Elected Kelly Jones as board president (7-0)
• Elected Bob Byers as board vice president (7-0)
• Approved recess to executive session for personnel matters (7-0)
• Adopted consent agenda except for items 2.19 and 2.28 (7-0)
• Accepted meeting minutes via consent agenda (7-0)
• Accepted personnel report via consent agenda (7-0)

Board Report(s) Meeting

The Lawrence Public Schools Board of Education held a board report(s) meeting on June 26, 2023. Routine items such as minutes, personnel reports, monthly vouchers, and financial reports were approved via consent agenda. However, the board voted to remove item 2.22, the School Resource Officer MOU, from the consent agenda to discuss it under new business. The meeting also included a special recognition of Sandra Gautt with the Outstanding Service to Public Education Award.

• Removal of School Resource Officer MOU (item 2.22) from consent agenda for separate discussion
• Approval of monthly vouchers for June 8-21, 2023 disbursements
• Approval of financial reports for periods ending January through April 2023
• Acceptance of personnel report (revised enclosure)
• Special recognition: Sandra Gautt received USD 497's Outstanding Service to Public Education Award

The Board of Education approved a series of consent agenda items including financial reports, personnel updates, and vendor contracts. The School Resource Officer MOU was removed from the consent agenda for further discussion. The board also recognized Dr. Sandra Gautt with the 2023 Outstanding Service to Public Education Award.

• Approved kitchen warewash chemical service from Pur-o-Zone for 2023-24 (6-0)
• Approved pizza service from Dominos for Child Nutrition Programs for 2023-24 (6-0)
• Approved $6,570 for Lawrence Virtual School Flexpoint student licenses for 2021-22 (6-0)
• Approved $46,566.05 for 16 Wenger choral risers (6-0)
• Approved additional $20,000 for Stepping Stones Group contract, not to exceed $270,000 (6-0)
• Approved monthly vouchers for 06/08/2023 through 06/21/2023 (6-0)
• Approved financial reports for periods ending Jan 31 through April 30, 2023 (6-0)
• Removed School Resource Officer MOU from consent agenda for discussion

Notice of Special Meeting

The Lawrence Public Schools Board of Education holds a special meeting to review applications for a board vacancy created by Kay Emerson's resignation effective May 26, 2023. The board will discuss applications received and select candidates to interview. The appointment will fill the term until January 2026.

• Review of board candidate applications for vacancy
• Eight candidates submitted applications (Carttar, Gaston, Thomas, Costello, Scott, Byers, Daley, Businger)
• Vacancy due to resignation of board member Kay Emerson
• Process: applications due June 13, interviews at June 26 regular meeting
• No public comment at this special meeting

The Lawrence Board of Education reviewed eight applications to fill the vacancy left by Kay Emerson. The board selected four finalists to be interviewed on June 26, with a formal appointment and swearing-in scheduled for July 10.

• Approved the meeting agenda (6-0)
• Selected Robert (Bob) A. Byers, Paul Carttar, Rebekah Gaston, and Rachel Thomas as finalists for board vacancy
• Adjourned the meeting (6-0)

Board Business Meeting

The Lawrence school board held a June 12 business meeting, approving a consent agenda that included routine items such as meeting minutes, a personnel report, monthly vouchers, and year-end budget transfers. Notably, the board authorized the purchase of air filters for Austin Air Healthmate purifiers from School Specialty for $80,307 using ESSER funds.

• Approved $80,307 purchase of air filters from School Specialty for districtwide air purifiers
• Authorized administration to make year-end budget transfers and use Contingency Reserve if needed
• Approved monthly disbursements summary for May 18–June 7, 2023
• Accepted personnel report with staff changes
• Recognized staff members John Becker (10 years) and Anastacio Romero (16 years) for service

The Board of Education approved a consent agenda including several technology and supply purchases, a bond refunding resolution, and budgetary transfers. The board also received a budget update regarding declining enrollment and rising health insurance costs.

• Approved $80,307 for air filters using ESSER Funds (5-0)
• Approved $166,010 for HS Social Studies student licenses (5-0)
• Approved $55,053.60 for 16,800 reams of copy paper (5-0)
• Approved $100,000 for computer stylus pencils (5-0)
• Approved $117,900 for LED displays and projectors at four elementary schools (5-0)
• Approved $26,000 for Character Strong consultants (5-0)
• Approved bond refunding resolution with a $2,500,000 savings target (5-0)
• Approved donating excess library books from Broken Arrow and Pinckney elementary schools (5-0)

Notice of Special Meeting

The Lawrence Public Schools Board of Education accepted the resignation of board member Kay Emerson (effective May 26, 2023) and approved a timeline, application, and selection process to appoint a replacement through January 2026. The board also held executive sessions for contract negotiations.

• Accepted resignation of board member Kay Emerson
• Approved publication of vacancy notice in Lawrence Journal-World on June 6, 2023
• Application deadline for candidates: June 13, 2023, at 5 p.m.
• Board to interview candidates and appoint replacement at June 26, 2023 meeting
• Entered executive session for employer-employee negotiations under KOMA

The Board of Education accepted the resignation of Board Member Kay Emerson. The board also approved the publication of a vacancy notice and the process for appointing a replacement. Several executive sessions were held regarding contract negotiations with no action following.

• Approved the meeting agenda
• Accepted resignation of Board Member Kay Emerson and approved vacancy notice and appointment process
• Recessed to executive session for employer-employee contract negotiations

Board Report(s) Meeting

The Lawrence Public Schools Board will consider several routine consent items, including approval of meeting minutes, a personnel report, and monthly voucher disbursements. The board will also discuss an ESSER III amendment that proposes specific allocations totaling $1,113,600 for substitute pay increases, summer school funding, retention stipends, and professional development. An executive session will be held to address non‑elected personnel matters, and public comment will be taken later in the meeting.

• Approve agenda amendment to include consent items #2.9 and #2.10
• Adopt consent agenda items: meeting minutes, personnel report, and monthly vouchers
• Approve ESSER III amendment with allocations: $160,000 for substitute pay increase, $500,000 for summer school, $222,600 for retention stipend, $48,000 for KAGAN PD, $63,000 for AVID PD, $120,000 for Character Strong PD
• Recess to executive session to discuss non‑elected personnel matters
• Public comment period for community members

The Board of Education approved a personnel report including new school leadership appointments. The board also approved an additional $27,500 for RSP & Associates due to an increased scope of work.

• Approved amended agenda (7-0)
• Recessed to executive session for personnel matters (7-0)
• Approved Consent Agenda (7-0)
• Accepted meeting minutes (7-0)
• Approved personnel report (7-0)
• Approved district and school disbursements for 05/04/2023 through 05/17/2023 (7-0)
• Approved ESSER III amendment (7-0)
• Approved additional $27,500 to RSP & Associates (7-0)

Board Business Meeting

The board will hold a work session on solar power, featuring a report from a consulting engineer on a possible pilot program. The formal business meeting includes routine consent agenda items such as approval of minutes, personnel report, monthly vouchers, financial reports, and an increased encumbrance for device repairs from Synetic.

• Work session: presentation on solar energy pilot program by Alan W. Lankford of Lankford Fendler Consulting Engineers Inc.
• Approval of consent agenda including minutes of April 24, 2023 board report meeting
• Personnel report (enclosure revised)
• Monthly vouchers for disbursements from 04/20/2023 to 05/03/2023
• Financial reports for periods ending October, November, and December 2022 plus updated September 2022 cash summary

The Board of Education approved several financial and operational items via a consent agenda, including device repairs and staffing contracts. The board also held a work session to discuss the potential for installing solar power at district schools to reduce operating costs.

• Approved increased encumbrance of up to $170,000 with Synetic Technologies, Inc. for device repairs (7-0)
• Approved additional $115,000 for Sunbelt Staffing contract, not to exceed $765,000 (7-0)
• Approved $24,879 agreement with Johnson Controls for Metasys server software upgrade (7-0)
• Approved summary of district and school disbursements for 04/20/2023 through 05/03/2023 (7-0)
• Approved Budget to Actual and Cash Summary financial reports for late 2022 (7-0)
• Approved personnel report (7-0)
• Approved meeting minutes (7-0)

Board Report(s) Meeting

The Lawrence Public Schools Board of Education met for a Board Report(s) meeting on April 24, 2023. The board approved a consent agenda containing routine items, including the approval of meeting minutes, a personnel report, monthly vouchers, IDEA Part B assurances, and a Kansas Association of School Boards (KASB) membership renewal at a cost of $16,634.09. A first read of a revised Performance Based Credit Policy (IIA) was also presented.

• Approval of KASB annual membership renewal at $14,884.09 plus $1,750.00 season pass, total $16,634.09
• Approval of IDEA Part B Assurances for KSDE regarding special education compliance
• Approval of monthly vouchers (checks/wires disbursed April 6-19, 2023)
• Approval of personnel report (includes retirements, e.g., Randall Fillmore, 18 years service)
• First read of revised Performance Based Credit Policy IIA

The Board of Education approved a resolution for general obligation refunding bonds to save an estimated $3.9 million over 10-11 years. The board also approved a five-year contract for the Character Strong social emotional curriculum and reduced graduation requirements for the class of 2024.

• Approved sale of general obligation refunding bonds, Series 2023-A, if minimum savings of $2.5 million is met (7-0)
• Approved purchase of Character Strong PK-12 social emotional curriculum for $206,972.40 over five years
• Approved reduction of graduation requirements from 23 to 21 for the class of 2024 (7-0)
• Approved KASB annual membership renewal and season pass totaling $16,634.09 (7-0)
• Approved IDEA Part B Assurances for submission to KSDE (7-0)
• Approved monthly vouchers (7-0)
• Accepted personnel report (7-0)
• Accepted first read of Performance Based Credit Policy IIA for possible adoption May 8 (7-0)

Board Business Meeting

The Lawrence Public Schools Board of Education held a business meeting on April 10, 2023. The board approved the consent agenda, which included routine items such as meeting minutes, a personnel report, and monthly vouchers. Notable consent items included a $39,668 invoice adjustment for eDynamic Learning licenses for Lawrence Virtual School and a resolution authorizing a tax levy of up to .5 mills for the adult basic education program for five years. The board also recognized Free State High School's national and state champion wrestlers.

• Special recognition of Free State High School national and state champion wrestlers
• Approval of consent agenda including minutes, personnel report, and monthly vouchers
• eDynamic Learning invoice adjustment of $39,668 for 397 student licenses for Lawrence Virtual School
• Resolution to levy up to .5 mills for adult basic education fund from July 2023 to June 2028

The Board of Education approved several facility maintenance contracts and a tax levy for adult basic education. They also authorized food procurement for child nutrition programs and instrument maintenance contracts.

• Approved $270,907 for asphalt and concrete improvements at five schools (7-0)
• Approved $139,781 for building exterior maintenance at five schools (7-0)
• Approved annual tax levy not to exceed .5 mills for adult basic education program through June 30, 2028 (7-0)
• Approved $106,700 for band and orchestra instrument maintenance contracts (7-0)
• Approved food and non-food product purchasing from Sysco for 2023-24 school year (7-0)
• Approved $39,668 invoice adjustment for eDynamic Learning student licenses (7-0)
• Approved personnel report and monthly vouchers (7-0)

Board Business Meeting

The Lawrence Public Schools Board of Education will hold a business meeting on March 27, 2023. The agenda includes routine consent items such as approval of minutes from previous meetings (including school closing public hearings for Broken Arrow and Pinckney elementary schools), a personnel report, monthly vouchers, and an easement modification agreement with Evergy Kansas Central, Inc. The board will also recognize Southwest Middle School's National Future City Team and hear public comment.

• Approval of easement modification agreement with Evergy Kansas Central, Inc. for property at 1480 E 800 Road
• Acceptance of minutes from March 25, 2023 public hearings on closing Broken Arrow and Pinckney elementary schools
• Personnel report (10 KB attachment)
• Monthly vouchers for disbursements from 02/23/2023 to 03/22/2023
• Special recognition of Southwest Middle School National Future City Team

The Board of Education approved an administrative plan for middle school curriculum changes to support $3.25 million in staffing cuts. The board also approved a consent agenda including a lawsuit settlement and an easement agreement.

• Approved middle school curriculum changes for 2023-24 (4-3)
• Accepted $284,125 settlement offer from JUUL Labs, Inc. (7-0)
• Approved Updated Easement Modification Agreement for 1480 E 800 Road (7-0)
• Approved summary of district and school disbursements from 02/23/2023 to 03/22/2023 (7-0)
• Approved personnel report (7-0)
• Approved meeting minutes for general and special meetings, and school closing hearings (7-0)

School Closing Public Hearing for Broken Arrow Elementary School

The Lawrence Board of Education is holding a public hearing on the potential closure of Broken Arrow Elementary School. The board previously voted to schedule the hearing after considering closures of Broken Arrow, Pinckney, and Woodlawn, with Woodlawn removed from consideration. Estimated savings from closing both Broken Arrow and Pinckney are $3.85–$4.05 million in 2023-24 and $325,000 in 2024-25, which the board has prioritized for competitive staff wages. The Boundary Advisory Committee recommended reassigning Broken Arrow students to Schwegler, Sunflower, Langston Hughes, Cordley, and/or Prairie Park.

• Public hearing for potential closure of Broken Arrow Elementary School (2704 Louisiana Street)
• Recommended student reassignments for Broken Arrow: Schwegler, Sunflower, Langston Hughes, Cordley, Prairie Park
• Estimated savings of $3.85–$4.05 million in 2023-24 and $325,000 in 2024-25 if both Broken Arrow and Pinckney close
• Board prioritizes reallocating savings toward competitive staff wages
• Boundary Advisory Committee to discuss boundary changes affecting class sizes and demographics

The Board of Education opened and closed a public hearing regarding the closing of Broken Arrow Elementary School. Twenty-nine members of the public spoke during the session. No final decision on the school closing was recorded in these minutes.

• Opened public hearing for Broken Arrow Elementary School closing (7-0)
• Closed public hearing for Broken Arrow Elementary School closing (7-0)

School Closing Public Hearing for Pinckney Elementary School

The Lawrence Board of Education is holding a public hearing to gather community input on the potential closure of Pinckney Elementary School as part of budget cuts. The board voted in February to schedule hearings for Pinckney and Broken Arrow. Closing both schools could save an estimated $3.85-$4.05 million in 2023-24 and $325,000 in 2024-25.

• Public hearing for Pinckney Elementary School closure on March 25, 2023, at 2:00 p.m. at Pinckney gym, 810 W 6th St.
• Estimated savings of $3.85-$4.05 million in 2023-24 and $325,000 in 2024-25 if both Pinckney and Broken Arrow close.
• Boundary Advisory Committee recommends Pinckney students could be reassigned to Deerfield, Sunset Hill, New York, Hillcrest, or Cordley Elementary.
• Public comments limited to 3 minutes per speaker; recording will be posted on YouTube.
• Board also approved staffing reductions at middle, high, and virtual schools.

The board of education opened and closed a public hearing regarding the closure of Pinckney Elementary School. Thirty-seven individuals spoke during the hearing. No final decision on the closure was recorded in these minutes.

• Opened public hearing for Pinckney Elementary School closure (7-0)
• Closed public hearing for Pinckney Elementary School closure (7-0)

Notice of Board Breakfast

The Lawrence Public Schools Board of Education will hold a Board Breakfast at Cordley Elementary School. No board business will be discussed during the event, which is purely a social gathering.

• Board Breakfast at Cordley Elementary School, 1837 Vermont St, Lawrence, KS
• Scheduled from 8:45 am to 9:45 am
• No board business will be discussed

Notice of Board Lunch

This agenda is a notice of a board lunch, not a working meeting. The Lawrence Public Schools Board of Education will gather at Lawrence High School, but no board business will be discussed. The event is scheduled from 12:00 AM to 1:00 PM (likely a typo for 12:00 PM).

Notice of Special Meeting

The Lawrence Public Schools Board of Education is holding a special meeting solely to recess into executive session to discuss personnel matters of non-elected personnel. No public comment or other business will be conducted. The board will return to open session at a set time with no action to follow.

• Recess to executive session for discussion of personnel matters of non-elected personnel, with Dr. Anthony Lewis present
• Extension of executive session until 7:16 pm
• No public comment or public hearing noticed for this meeting

The board met for a special session and held two executive sessions to discuss personnel matters of non-elected personnel. No substantive actions were taken following the executive sessions.

• Approved the agenda (6-0)
• Recessed to executive session for personnel matters (6-0)
• Extended executive session for personnel matters (4-0)
• Adjourned the meeting (6-0)

Board Report(s) Meeting

The board approved the consent agenda including monthly vouchers, personnel report, and the audit engagement with Gordan CPAs at $24,000 plus $2,500 per major program. They removed item 2.6 (ESSER HVAC Phase II bid from PCI Mechanical) from the consent agenda for a separate vote. The board also recognized Lawrence Free State High School debate state champions and the retirement of Russell Sage after 6 years of service.

• Approved consent agenda including minutes, personnel report, monthly vouchers, and audit engagement
• Removed item 2.6 (ESSER HVAC Phase II bid from Piping Contractors of Kansas dba PCI Mechanical) for separate vote
• Approved audit engagement with Gordan CPAs at $24,000 plus $2,500 per major program
• Recognized Lawrence Free State HS debate team for KSHSAA 6A state 2-speaker and 4-speaker honors
• Recognized retirement of Russell Sage with 6 years of service

The Board of Education approved several technology service renewals and hardware purchases. It also authorized Gordan CPAs to perform the statutory audit for the period ending June 30, 2023. One HVAC bid recommendation was excluded from the consent agenda.

• Approved Gordan CPAs for statutory audit at $24,000 plus $2,500 per major program (7-0)
• Approved 3-year WAN and internet services renewal with Midco for Wakarusa Valley at $27,000 (7-0)
• Approved fiber install addition to Centennial building with WANRack for $3,718 over four years (7-0)
• Approved purchase of wireless access points and firewall from ConvergeOne for $26,409.16 (7-0)
• Approved personnel report (7-0)
• Approved district and school disbursements for 02/09/2023 through 02/22/2023 (7-0)
• Approved meeting and special meeting minutes (7-0)

Notice of Special Meeting

The Lawrence Public Schools Board of Education is holding a special meeting to receive an update from the Futures Planning Committee. The committee has been working on a facility master plan process, including enrollment projections and demographic analysis, to guide allocation of district resources.

• Futures Planning Committee update on enrollment analysis and facility master plan
• Board previously approved $? contract with RSP & Associates for enrollment projections and demographic profile
• Discussion of community input and final recommendations for resource allocation

The board received an update on the Futures Planning Committee's efforts to reduce spending and reallocate funds. The committee analyzed facility scores and community input regarding potential school closures and budget cuts. No substantive votes on budget reductions or school closures were taken during this meeting.

• Approved the agenda (7-0)
• Adjourned the meeting (7-0)

Board Business Meeting

The board approved a consent agenda including a $30,000 contract with Cornerstones of Care for special education services, and pulled a resolution (item 2.10) for separate discussion under new business. The meeting also included recognition of student achievements and an executive session on personnel matters.

• Cornerstones of Care contract for special education services, not to exceed $30,000
• Personnel report accepted as part of consent agenda
• Monthly vouchers for disbursements from 01/19/2023 to 02/08/2023 approved
• Recognition of Free State High School students for writing awards and a West Point appointment
• Resolution (item 2.10) removed from consent agenda for future board discussion

The Board of Education approved a series of consent agenda items including engineering services for building and pavement maintenance. The board also authorized contracts for educational insights and specialized care services.

• Approved contract with Cornerstones of Care for 2022-2023 school year not to exceed $30,000
• Approved purchase of Educator Perceptions and Insights Center (EPIC) up to $50,000 over six years using ESSER III funds
• Approved $10,700 for Norton & Schmidt Consulting Engineers for building exteriors maintenance at eight school sites
• Approved Easement Modification Agreement with Evergy Kansas Central, Inc. for 1480 E 800 Road
• Approved $24,500 for Norton & Schmidt Consulting Engineers for asphalt and concrete improvements at four school sites
• Approved personnel report and meeting minutes
• Approved district and school disbursements for 01/19/2023 through 02/08/2023

Board Report(s) Meeting

The Lawrence school board approved a consent agenda including a $355,000 increase to the Sunbelt Staffing contract (not to exceed $650,000) to fill special-education staffing shortages, and additional engineering services for Southwest Middle School's HVAC chiller replacement. The meeting also included routine approval of meeting minutes, personnel reports, and monthly vouchers.

• Additional $355,000 for Sunbelt Staffing contract for special education and behavioral staff, not to exceed $650,000
• Approved $44,725 in additional engineering services for Southwest Middle School chiller replacement (total $100,019.88)
• Approved summary of district disbursements for Jan 5–18, 2023
• Accepted personnel report including updated staffing actions
• Approved minutes from Jan 9, 2023 board business meeting

The Board of Education approved several consent agenda items, including staffing and facility costs. The board also reviewed quarterly student academic, attendance, and behavior data.

• Approved $355,000 increase to Sunbelt Staffing contract (7-0)
• Approved $44,725 for Southwest Middle School chiller replacement engineering services (7-0)
• Approved purchase of Middle School Science lab materials from Activate Learning (7-0)
• Approved summary of district and school disbursements for 01/05/2023 through 01/18/2023 (7-0)
• Approved Personnel Report (7-0)
• Approved meeting minutes (7-0)
• Approved amended agenda for January 23, 2023 meeting (5-0)

Board Business Meeting

This is a largely procedural meeting with no major policy decisions. The board accepted the audit for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2022, approved monthly disbursements for Dec 8–Jan 4, and adopted routine consent items including personnel reports and prior meeting minutes. The meeting also included a special recognition for Northeast District Kansas Music Educators Association honorees.

• Acceptance of June 30, 2022 audit for district finances
• Approval of monthly vouchers (disbursements) for Dec 8, 2022 – Jan 4, 2023
• Adoption of consent agenda including personnel report and meeting minutes
• Special recognition of Northeast District Kansas Music Educators Association honorees
• Multiple executive sessions to discuss student matters

The Board of Education approved a series of consent agenda items, including financial audits and personnel reports. Key actions included increasing funds for device repairs and establishing a process for selling old athletic uniforms.

• Approved increased encumbrance of up to $120,000 with Synetic Technologies, Inc. for device repairs
• Approved disposal of aged secondary athletics and activities uniforms via sale or auction
• Accepted the audit for the period ending June 30, 2022
• Approved summary of district and school disbursements from 12/08/2022 through 01/04/2023
• Approved recommended amendments to Board Policy effective January 9, 2023
• Accepted the personnel report
• Approved the meeting agenda