Unified School District 497 public meetings in 2024

Board Business Meeting

The Lawrence Board of Education will vote on a consent agenda including acceptance of the June 30, 2024 audit, monthly vouchers, financial reports, personnel report, and meeting minutes. The audit is favorable with no significant weaknesses. The meeting also includes reports from the superintendent and board president, and public comment.

• Acceptance of favorable June 30, 2024 audit by Gordan CPA
• Approval of monthly vouchers for 11/22/24–12/07/24
• Approval of financial reports for period ending October 31, 2024
• Approval of December 9, 2024 personnel report
• Approval of November 25, 2024 meeting minutes

The Board of Education approved several infrastructure and security upgrades via a consent agenda. This included the procurement of network hardware and the renewal of security software subscriptions. The Board also adopted two policies regarding the supervision and misuse of student medication.

• Approved procurement of 300 wireless access points from Logicalis for $255,762 (7-0)
• Approved year four of a security software subscription through ConvergeOne for $193,011.10 (7-0)
• Adopted Board Policy JDDAA - Student Misuse of Medication (7-0)
• Adopted Board Policy JGFGB - Supervision of Medications (7-0)
• Approved December 9, 2024 Personnel Report (7-0)
• Approved district and school disbursements for 11/22/2024 through 12/07/2024 (7-0)
• Accepted the audit for the period ending June 30, 2024 (7-0)
• Approved disposal of outdated secondary athletic and activity uniforms via sale or auction (7-0)

Board Report(s) Meeting

This is a board report meeting where the board will vote on a consent agenda that includes routine items such as meeting minutes, personnel report, and monthly vouchers, as well as first readings of three board policies. The most notable item is a new policy (JDDAA) addressing student misuse of prescription or over-the-counter medication, allowing discipline for improper use or distribution.

• First reading of Board Policy JDDAA - Student Misuse of Medication (new) allowing discipline for bringing, self-administering beyond label, or distributing prescription/OTC medication
• First reading of Board Policy JGFGB - Supervision of Medications (updated) to move self-administration language to new policy
• First reading of Board Policy JGFGBA - Student Self-Administration of Medication (new)
• Approval of monthly vouchers (disbursements for 11/07/2024–11/21/2024)
• Approval of personnel report and meeting minutes from November 11, 2024

The Board of Education approved the consent agenda, which included the personnel report and monthly vouchers. The board also granted first reading approval for two new policies regarding student misuse and supervision of medications.

• Approved agenda with Item 7.1 removed (4-0)
• Adopted Consent Agenda (4-0)
• Accepted November 11, 2024 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Approved Personnel Report (4-0)
• Approved district and school disbursements for 11/07/2024 through 11/21/2024 (4-0)
• Approved Board Policy JDDAA - Student Misuse of Medication on First Reading (4-0)
• Approved Board Policy JGFGB - Supervision of Medications on First Reading (4-0)

Board Business Meeting

The Board of Education is meeting to approve routine administrative items, including financial reports and personnel updates. The board will also consider the sale of excess band uniforms from Free State High School.

• Approval of district and school disbursements for 10/24/2024 through 11/06/2024
• Approval of financial reports for the period ending September 30, 2024
• Approval of donations received from 10/01/2024 through 10/31/2024
• Authorization to sell excess 12-year-old band uniforms at Free State High School
• Approval of the Personnel Report

The Board of Education approved the hiring of the Kansas Association of School Boards to conduct the search for the next Superintendent of Schools. The board also approved a consent agenda including a paving contract and the sale of excess uniforms.

• Approved hiring Kansas Association of School Boards for superintendent search
• Approved $270,675.80 bid from Tandem Paving Company, Inc. for asphalt and concrete improvements
• Authorized sale of excess band uniforms at Free State High School
• Approved Personnel Report
• Approved monthly vouchers for 10/24/2024 through 11/06/2024
• Approved financial reports for period ending September 30, 2024
• Approved donation report for 10/01/2024 through 10/31/2024
• Approved October 28, 2024 meeting minutes

Board Report(s) Meeting

The Lawrence Board of Education will hold a report meeting with a consent agenda that includes first readings of two district policies: KGA on use of district personal property and GAOE on workers compensation. Other consent items include approval of meeting minutes, personnel report, monthly vouchers, financial reports for July–August 2024, and a donation report. The meeting also features a special recognition for Lawrence High School and public comment.

• First reading of Board Policy KGA redefining 'personal property' to 'district personal property'
• First reading of Board Policy GAOE updating workers compensation after Senate Bill 430
• Approval of financial reports for July 1–August 31, 2024, including cash summary and budget to actual
• Approval of donations received July 1–September 30, 2024 (monetary and in-kind of $250+)
• Monthly vouchers for district disbursements October 10–23, 2024

The Board of Education approved the meeting agenda, the consent agenda, and the personnel report. The meeting primarily consisted of reports from the Superintendent and Board President regarding district operations and upcoming schedules.

• Approved meeting agenda (7-0)
• Approved Consent Agenda (7-0)
• Approved October 15, 2024 meeting minutes (7-0)
• Approved Personnel Report (7-0)
• Approved district and school disbursements for 10/10/2024 through 10/23/2024 (7-0)

Notice of Board Training

This is a notice of board training for the Lawrence Public Schools Board of Education, not a regular business meeting. No board business will be discussed. The training will include an information item on Character Strong Development and a discussion on the new Superintendent Evaluation Tool.

• Character Strong Development (information item)
• Review of New Superintendent Evaluation Tool (discussion item)
• Training held at Facilities & Operations building, 711 East 23rd Street

Board Business Meeting

The Board of Education met to approve routine administrative items and update district policies. The board adopted the 2025 USD 497 Legislative Priorities to guide state-level advocacy. Other actions included updating policies regarding executive sessions and instructional programs.

• Adoption of 2025 USD 497 Legislative Priorities
• Approval of district and school disbursements for 09/19/2024 through 10/09/2024
• Adoption of Board Policy BCBK - Executive Session
• Adoption of Board Policy ID - Instructional Program
• Approval of the Personnel Report

The Board of Education met to receive reports from the Superintendent and Board President. No substantive policy or budgetary decisions were made other than the approval of the meeting agenda.

• Approved the agenda for the October 15, 2024 meeting (6-0)

Board Report(s) Meeting

The Lawrence school board will hold a public meeting with reports, public comment, and a special recognition before recessing into closed executive sessions to discuss personnel matters of non-elected staff. The consent agenda includes approval of minutes, a personnel report, and monthly vouchers.

• Special recognition: Prairie Park Elementary School showcase with principal Jason Townsend
• Approval of consent agenda including meeting minutes from September 9, 2024
• Personnel report approved as part of consent agenda
• Monthly vouchers (disbursements) approved for period 09/05/2024 through 09/18/2024
• Two executive sessions to discuss personnel matters of non-elected personnel

The Board of Education met for a reports meeting where the only formal action taken was the approval of the meeting agenda. The session primarily consisted of reports from the Superintendent and Board President regarding school safety, cell phone policy updates, and community engagement.

• Approved the September 23, 2024 meeting agenda (7-0)

Board Business Meeting

The board will open and close public hearings on the revenue neutral rate and the 2024-2025 budget. Other agenda items include special recognition of the Lawrence Special Education Advisory Council, public comment, approval of the consent agenda, and two executive sessions for personnel matters. The meeting also includes routine procedural actions such as approval of minutes and the personnel report.

• Open and close budget hearings on revenue neutral rate (6:00 p.m.) and 2024-2025 budget (6:05 p.m.)
• Executive sessions for discussing personnel matters of non-elected personnel with interim superintendent and HR directors
• Special recognition of L-SEAC Co-Chairs Carrie Poe and Kristi Heintzelman
• Approval of consent agenda including meeting minutes from August 26, 2024 and personnel report

Board Report(s) Meeting

The Lawrence Public Schools Board of Education is meeting for a Board Report(s) meeting on August 26, 2024. The consent agenda includes a resolution to terminate the certified contract of Brian Hunter, a math teacher at Lawrence High School, along with routine items such as approval of minutes, a personnel report, monthly vouchers, and adoption of a policy on evacuations and emergencies. The board also held an executive session on personnel matters and will hear public comment.

• Resolution to terminate certified contract of Brian Hunter, math teacher at Lawrence High School
• Approval of Board Policy EBBD - Evacuations and Emergencies on Second Reading
• Approval of monthly vouchers for period 08/08/2024 – 08/21/2024
• Approval of personnel report with employee changes
• Public comment period for patron input

The Board of Education approved a consent agenda that included the termination of a certified contract for a high school math teacher and several board policy updates. The board also approved the personnel report and monthly vouchers for the period of August 8 through August 21, 2024.

• Approved termination of certified contract for Brian Hunter, math teacher at Lawrence High School (6-0)
• Approved Board Policy EBBD - Evacuations and Emergencies on Second Reading (6-0)
• Approved Board Policy EBBF - Crisis Planning on Second Reading (6-0)
• Approved Board Policy DFM - Equipment and Supplies Sales on Second Reading (6-0)
• Approved Board Policy CJ - Consultants on First Reading (6-0)
• Approved repeal of Board Policy BBG - Consultants on First Reading (6-0)
• Approved personnel report (6-0)
• Approved district and school disbursements for 08/08/2024 through 08/21/2024 (6-0)

Board Business Meeting

The Lawrence school board met August 12 and approved a consent agenda including a $32,000 contract with Favorite Healthcare Staffing for school nursing services. They also approved personnel reports and monthly disbursements. An executive session was held for personnel matters, and public comment was heard.

• Approved $32,000 contract with Favorite Healthcare Staffing for 2024-2025 school year
• Approved monthly vouchers (disbursements) for period 07/18/2024 through 08/07/2024
• Accepted personnel report
• Approved minutes from July 22, July 29, July 31, and August 1 meetings
• Conducted executive session for personnel matters

The Board of Education approved a consent agenda including a personnel report and a contract for healthcare staffing. The meeting included a community meet-and-greet with Interim Superintendent Dr. Jeanice Kerr Swift. Items regarding Free State High School asphalt improvements and another unspecified item were removed from the consent agenda for further consideration.

• Approved contract with Favorite Healthcare Staffing for 2024-2025 for $32,000 (7-0)
• Approved personnel report (7-0)
• Approved district and school disbursements for 07/18/2024 through 08/07/2024 (7-0)
• Approved meeting minutes from July 22, July 29, July 31, and August 1, 2024 (7-0)
• Approved meeting agenda (7-0)

Notice of Special Meeting

The Lawrence Public Schools Board of Education held a special meeting to interview candidates for interim superintendent and approved a 4.077% increase to the administrative salary pool for the 2024-2025 school year, costing $245,520. The board also conducted multiple executive sessions to discuss personnel matters related to the superintendent search.

• Approved a 4.077% increase ($245,520) to the administrative salary pool for 2024-2025
• Held candidate interviews for the interim superintendent position in executive session
• Certified staff salary increase of 4.077% ($1,920,218) approved on 7/22/24
• Classified staff salary increase of 6.267% ($1,086,912) approved on 7/28/24
• Board approved continued full funding of employee insurance at $727.12 per covered full-time employee per month

The Board of Education approved a salary pool increase for administrators for the 2024-2025 school year. The remainder of the special meeting consisted of multiple executive sessions to discuss personnel matters.

• Approved 4.077% increase to administrative salary pool at a cost of $245,520 (7-0)
• Approved agenda for August 1, 2024, special board meeting (7-0)
• Recessed to executive session for personnel matters (7-0)
• Recessed to executive session for personnel matters (7-0)
• Recessed to executive session for personnel matters (4-0)

Notice of Special Meeting

This special meeting of the Lawrence Public Schools Board of Education was called to conduct candidate interviews for the interim superintendent position. The board recessed into executive session multiple times to discuss personnel matters and protect the privacy of candidates. No public comment was taken.

• Candidate interviews for interim superintendent
• Recess to executive session for personnel discussions
• Board approved the meeting agenda
• Multiple executive sessions and extensions held
• Meeting adjourned after closed sessions

The Board of Education conducted a special meeting consisting of two executive sessions to discuss personnel matters of non-elected personnel. No substantive actions were taken following these sessions.

• Approved the meeting agenda (7-0)
• Recessed to executive session for personnel matters (7-0)
• Recessed to executive session for personnel matters (7-0)
• Adjourned the meeting (7-0)

Notice of Special Meeting

The Lawrence Public Schools Board of Education held a special meeting on July 29, 2024. They approved a 6.267% increase to the classified salary pool totaling $1,086,912, including a 99-cent hourly wage increase and horizontal movement. They also approved the consolidated 2024-2025 District Student Handbook. The meeting included public comment and a recess to executive session.

• Approved PAL-CWA tentative agreement with $1,086,912 classified salary pool increase and 99-cent base wage hike
• Approved consolidated District Student Handbook for 2024-2025 merging elementary, middle, and high school handbooks
• Approved changes to sick leave (day one eligibility) and inclement weather leave for classified staff
• Public comment period held
• Recess to executive session (purpose not specified)

The Board of Education approved a tentative agreement with PAL-CWA for the 2024-2025 school year and adopted a consolidated District Student Handbook. The labor agreement includes a salary pool increase of $1,086,912. No changes were made to current student cell phone policies.

• Approved 2024-2025 District Student Handbook (6-0)
• Approved PAL-CWA tentative agreement including 6.267% salary pool increase of $1,086,912 (6-0)
• Approved agenda for July 29, 2024 meeting (5-0)

Board Report(s) Meeting

The Lawrence school board met July 22, 2024, and recognized several community partners and award recipients. The board approved the consent agenda, which included a $50,000 renewal of Learning A-Z for supplemental K-2 reading resources, monthly vouchers, personnel reports, and meeting minutes. Public comment and board commentary were also held.

• Approved $50,000 renewal of Learning A-Z supplemental reading resource for K-2 and ELL students
• Presented 2024 Outstanding Citizen Awards to Erica Hill, Russ Johnson, Sheryle D'Amico, Ken Sarber, and Angie Loving
• Presented Outstanding Service to Public Education Award to Debbie Harman
• Approved monthly disbursements for period 07/04/2024 – 07/17/2024
• Accepted personnel report and meeting minutes from prior meetings

The Board of Education approved the meeting agenda and adopted the consent agenda, which included the personnel report and monthly vouchers. The meeting also served as the final formal session with Superintendent Dr. Anthony Lewis.

• Approved meeting agenda (7-0)
• Adopted Consent Agenda (7-0)
• Accepted meeting minutes (7-0)
• Accepted special meeting minutes (7-0)
• Accepted personnel report (7-0)
• Approved district and school disbursements for 07/04/2024 through 07/17/2024 (7-0)

Notice of Special Meeting

The Lawrence Public Schools Board of Education held a special meeting on July 16, 2024, to recess into executive session for the purpose of discussing the negotiated contract and personnel matters. No action was taken following the closed session. Public comment was not scheduled.

• Board recessed to executive session to discuss employer-employee contract negotiations under KOMA exemption
• Executive session extended for personnel matters of non-elected personnel
• No public comment was permitted at this special meeting
• Meeting held at Educational Support Center, 110 McDonald Drive, Lawrence, KS

The board approved the agenda and held two executive sessions to discuss employer-employee negotiations and personnel matters. No substantive actions were taken following the executive sessions.

• Approved the agenda (6-0)
• Recessed to executive session for employer-employee negotiations (6-0)
• Recessed to executive session for non-elected personnel matters (7-0)
• Adjourned the meeting (7-0)

Organizational/Board Business Meeting

This organizational meeting of the Lawrence Public Schools board elected Kelly Jones as president and GR Gordon-Ross as vice president for the 2024-25 year. The board also adopted a consent agenda that included approval of meeting minutes, a personnel report, and financial reports for May 2024, with the exception of items #2.12 and #2.22 which were held for separate discussion. The meeting opened with recognition of the Lawrence Virtual School eCybermission national champions and outgoing board president Kelly Jones.

• Election of Kelly Jones as board president and GR Gordon-Ross as vice president (1.3, 1.4)
• Recognition of Lawrence Virtual School eCybermission national champions (1.5)
• Recognition of outgoing board president Kelly Jones (1.5)
• Approval of consent agenda including June 24 meeting minutes, July 2 special meeting minutes, personnel report, and financial reports for period ending May 31, 2024 (2.1-2.5)
• Items #2.12 and #2.22 removed from consent agenda for separate new business discussion

The Board of Education held organizational elections to appoint its leadership for the upcoming term. The board also approved the meeting agenda and a consent agenda including personnel and meeting minutes.

• Elected Kelly Jones as Board of Education President (7-0)
• Elected GR Gordon-Ross as Board of Education Vice President (7-0)
• Approved the July 8, 2024 meeting agenda (7-0)
• Approved Consent Agenda excluding items #2.12 and #2.22 (7-0)
• Accepted meeting minutes (7-0)
• Accepted special meeting minutes (7-0)
• Accepted personnel report (7-0)

Notice of Special Meeting

The Lawrence Public Schools Board of Education holds a special meeting to discuss the process for selecting an interim and permanent superintendent following the resignation of Superintendent Anthony Lewis, effective August 9, 2024. The board also considers approval of a personnel report as needed and enters executive session for personnel matters. The meeting includes procedural items such as agenda approval and adjournment.

• Discussion of options for search and selection of an interim and permanent superintendent
• Approval of personnel report (as needed)
• Executive session for personnel matters of non-elected personnel
• Resignation of Superintendent Anthony Lewis effective August 9, 2024
• Meeting held at Interactive Technology Center, 110 McDonald Drive, Lawrence, KS

The board discussed a tentative timeline to find a permanent superintendent following the resignation of Dr. Anthony Lewis. The board proposed using the Kansas Association of School Boards to select an interim superintendent in August and seeking search firm proposals in September.

• Approved the agenda (7-0)
• Recessed to executive session to discuss non-elected personnel (7-0)
• Extended executive session to discuss non-elected personnel (7-0)

Notice of Board Organizational Retreat

The Lawrence Public Schools Board of Education will hold an organizational retreat on June 27, 2024, from 5:30 to 8:30 pm at the Educational Services Center (110 McDonald Drive). The retreat is informational and procedural; no board action or decisions will be taken.

• Board Organizational Retreat (no action taken)

Board Report(s) Meeting

This is a board report(s) meeting where the Lawrence Public Schools Board of Education approved a consent agenda containing routine items. These included the personnel report, monthly disbursements, year-end fund transfers, and change orders for asphalt and concrete improvements at Billy Mills Middle School and Free State High School. A special recognition was given to Team STEAM Robotics for their achievements. The meeting also included procedural items such as approval of the agenda, superintendent's report, and public comment.

• Approved change orders for asphalt and concrete improvements at Billy Mills Middle School and Free State High School (contractor Barkley Asphalt)
• Approved year-end fund transfers to close the district budget for fiscal year ending June 30, 2024
• Approved monthly vouchers for disbursements from June 6 to June 20, 2024
• Approved the personnel report as part of the consent agenda
• Special recognition presented to FRC Team 5119 Team STEAM Robotics

The Board of Education approved several capital outlay expenditures, including asphalt and concrete change orders and roofing consulting services. The board also accepted the personnel report and year-end budget transfers.

• Approved $27,680 change order for Billy Mills Middle School and $28,018 for Free State High School with Barkley Asphalt (7-0)
• Approved $46,820 revised proposal for roofing consulting at Lawrence High, Southwest Middle, and West Middle Schools (7-0)
• Approved $20,207 roofing survey proposal for Cordley Elementary (7-0)
• Approved year-end fund transfers to close the district budget for the year ending June 30, 2024 (7-0)
• Approved personnel report, including the hiring of Brian Workman as principal of New York Montessori and Elementary School (7-0)
• Approved district and school disbursements for 06/06/2024 through 06/20/2024 (7-0)
• Approved the meeting agenda (6-0)

Board Business Meeting

The Lawrence Public Schools Board of Education met to review financial reports and personnel updates. The board approved several routine consent agenda items, including district disbursements and a third-party administrator contract.

• Approved $54,000 payment to Thomas McGee Group for workers compensation administration (July 1, 2024 - June 30, 2025)
• Approved district and school disbursements for the period of 05/23/2024 through 06/05/2024
• Approved interim financial reports for the period ending April 30, 2024
• Accepted the personnel report dated 06/10/2024
• Approved minutes from the May 28, 2024 Board Report(s) Meeting

The Board of Education approved several financial expenditures and personnel updates via a consent agenda. This included a three-year software contract for data analytics and two insurance-related payments. Two board policies regarding student release and online learning were also adopted.

• Approved $174,525 three-year contract for ION platform software (5-0)
• Approved $54,000 payment to Thomas McGee Group for workers compensation administration (5-0)
• Approved $71,113 payment to Midwest Employers for excess workers compensation policy (5-0)
• Approved Board Policy JBH regarding Release of a Student During the School Day (5-0)
• Approved Board Policy IIBGB regarding Online Learning Opportunities (5-0)
• Approved Personnel Report, including Patrick Graham as LHS assistant principal and athletic director (5-0)
• Approved monthly vouchers for disbursements from 05/23/2024 through 06/05/2024 (5-0)
• Approved financial reports for the period ending April 30, 2024 (5-0)

Board Report(s) Meeting

This is a routine board report(s) meeting with procedural items, including a closed executive session for contract negotiations. The consent agenda includes approval of personnel changes, monthly vouchers, and a $30,000 encumbrance increase for device repairs with Synetic Technologies.

• Executive session for employer-employee contract negotiations
• Consent agenda item: $30,000 encumbrance increase for device repairs with Synetic Technologies
• Approval of personnel report
• Approval of monthly vouchers for period 05/09-05/22/2024
• Approval of meeting minutes from May 13, 2024 business meeting

The Board of Education approved the 2024-2025 school year calendar and several policy updates. The board also authorized funding for device repairs and a statutory audit.

• Adopted 2024-2025 School Year Calendar (6-0)
• Approved up to $30,000 for device repairs with Synetic Technologies, Inc. (6-0)
• Approved Gordon CPAs for statutory audit at $24,850 plus $2,600 per major program (6-0)
• Approved Board Policy JBH - Release of a Student During the School Day, First Reading (6-0)
• Approved Board Policy IIBGB - Online Learning Opportunities, First Reading (6-0)
• Approved personnel report and monthly vouchers for 05/09/2024 through 05/22/2024 (6-0)

Board Business Meeting

The Lawrence Public Schools Board of Education held a business meeting with routine approvals and recognitions. They recessed into executive session to discuss personnel matters of non-elected personnel and later accepted a settlement agreement. The board recognized Langston Hughes Elementary and Prairie Park Elementary schools, as well as retirees and C-Tran Job Olympics champions. Consent agenda items including meeting minutes, personnel report, and monthly vouchers for the period 04/18/2024 to 05/08/2024 were approved.

• Board accepted a settlement agreement after executive session on personnel matters
• Recognition of Langston Hughes Elementary School showcase and Prairie Park Elementary School showcase
• Recognition of C-Tran Job Olympics champions and retirees
• Approval of consent agenda including minutes, personnel report, and monthly vouchers
• Public comment period open for patrons on any germane topic

The Board of Education met to recognize student and staff achievements and approve a settlement agreement following an executive session. The board also adopted the items listed on the Consent Agenda.

• Approved the meeting agenda (7-0)
• Approved a settlement agreement following executive session (7-0)
• Adopted the Consent Agenda (7-0)

Notice of Special Meeting

The Lawrence Public Schools Board of Education held a special meeting on April 30, 2024, to discuss and vote on policy JBCC regarding nonresident student enrollment. The board approved the superintendent's recommendations on student-to-teacher ratios, building capacities, and the number of open seats for nonresident students for the 2024-25 school year. The meeting also included a personnel-related executive session. No public comment was heard.

• Approved K-5 ratio of 24:1, middle school ratios of 21-22:1, and high school ratio of 24:1
• Set building capacities: elementary 4,285; middle school 2,220; high school 3,415
• Listed open nonresident seats by school, e.g., Prairie Park (1st: 5, 2nd: 5), Quail Run (2nd: 4, 4th: 4, 5th: 5), LHS (9th-12th: 10 each)
• Executive session held for personnel matters of non-elected personnel with Dr. Anthony Lewis, Kristen Ryan, and Ron May present

The board approved student-to-teacher ratios, building capacities, and enrollment projections to determine nonresident enrollment availability. A total of 102 open seats were approved across elementary, middle, and high schools.

• Approved 30 open seats at elementary level, 12 at middle schools, and 60 at high schools
• Approved recommended student-to-teacher ratios, capacity, and enrollment projections
• Approved the meeting agenda
• Recessed to executive session for personnel matters; no action followed

Notice of Board Training

The Lawrence Public Schools Board of Education will hold a TrustCentric Professional Development Training on April 29, 2024, from 6:00 pm to 8:30 pm at KU Innovation Park. No board business will be discussed during this training.

• TrustCentric Professional Development Training for board members and Executive Leadership Team
• Facilitators: Jay Minnick and Cory Scheer
• No board business to be discussed

Board Report(s) Meeting

The Lawrence Public Schools Board of Education held a board report meeting on April 22, 2024. The board recognized several schools and the special education leadership team, then recessed into executive session to discuss employer-employee negotiations. The board returned to open session and approved a consent agenda including meeting minutes, the personnel report, monthly vouchers, and financial reports.

• Special recognitions: Deerfield Elementary, Kennedy Early Childhood Center, Free State High, Billy Mills Middle School Unified Bocce, and KU Whelan Award to Special Education Leadership Team
• Board recessed to executive session for contract negotiations with invited staff
• Approved consent agenda including personnel report and monthly disbursement summary
• Approved financial reports for period ending February 29, 2024

The Board of Education approved the agenda, the personnel report, and monthly vouchers for the period of April 4 through April 17, 2024. The meeting included recognitions for various school programs and a brief executive session regarding contract negotiations.

• Approved amended agenda (7-0)
• Approved personnel report (7-0)
• Approved district and school disbursements for 04/04/2024 through 04/17/2024 (7-0)
• Approved meeting minutes (7-0)
• Recessed to executive session for contract negotiations (7-0)

Board Business Meeting

The Lawrence Public Schools Board of Education will hold a business meeting including a student presentation on AI, recognition of students and staff, and a consent agenda covering personnel, vouchers, and financial reports. The board will recess to executive session to discuss employer-employee negotiations.

• Executive session for contract negotiations with superintendent and invited staff
• Student presentation from LVS E-Cybermission team on AI in education
• Consent agenda includes personnel report and monthly vouchers ($ amounts not specified in agenda)
• Special recognition for New York Elementary, Boys and Girls Club youth, and Character Strong Leaders
• Approval of meeting minutes and financial reports

The Board of Education approved the meeting agenda and the consent agenda, which included the personnel report and meeting minutes. The board also entered an executive session to discuss contract negotiations. No other substantive policy decisions were recorded.

• Approved meeting agenda (7-0)
• Approved consent agenda (7-0)
• Accepted meeting minutes (6-0)
• Accepted personnel report (6-0)
• Approved recess to executive session for contract negotiations (7-0)

Board Business Meeting

The Lawrence Public Schools board will hold a business meeting on March 25, 2024. They will recognize students and staff, then recess into executive session to discuss potential litigation. The board will also consider routine items on the consent agenda, including approving monthly vouchers and awarding a bid for asphalt and concrete improvements at four schools.

• Recess to executive session for potential litigation (non-public)
• Approval of monthly vouchers for period Feb 22 – Mar 20, 2024 (amount not specified)
• Acceptance of personnel report (details not provided)
• Award bid to Barkley Asphalt for asphalt and concrete improvements at Langston Hughes ES, Liberty Memorial Central MS, West Middle School, and Free State HS

The Board of Education approved the meeting agenda and entered an executive session to discuss potential litigation. The Superintendent reported on new administrative hires and upcoming student registration. No substantive policy or budget votes were recorded beyond the agenda approval.

• Approved meeting agenda (7-0)

Notice of Special Meeting

The Lawrence Public Schools Board of Education holds a special meeting to discuss making up instructional time to meet the state-required minimum of 1,116 hours. Due to inclement weather days and a recalculation, middle and high schools are short. The district announced a plan on March 7, and after staff concerns, an alternative plan was developed by the certified negotiations team. The board will discuss and may vote on the revised plan.

• Discussion of instructional hours shortfall for middle and high schools after four inclement weather days in January
• Alternative plan developed by certified negotiations team after community and staff concerns
• April 15 designated as a make-up day for all schools
• Possible recess to executive session for personnel matters
• Meeting held at Educational Support Center, 110 McDonald Drive

The board discussed a revised plan from the Certified Negotiations Team to meet the state-required 1,116 instructional hours for the 2023-2024 school year. The plan addresses shortages caused by inclement weather days and a state auditor's ruling on parent-teacher conferences. No formal vote on the plan was recorded in the minutes.

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

Board Report(s) Meeting

The Lawrence Board of Education held a Board Report(s) meeting on February 26, 2024, with procedural items and a consent agenda. The board approved a consent agenda including meeting minutes, a personnel report, monthly vouchers, and a new internet service contract. The contract with Wanrack is for up to 60 months at $1,440/month pre-E-rate, with the district paying 40% ($576/month), resulting in a five-year savings of $51,840 compared to the previous provider.

• Approval of 60-month internet services contract with Wanrack at $1,440/month pre-E-rate (district pays $576/month after 60% E-rate discount)
• Approval of consent agenda including meeting minutes from Feb 12, 2024
• Approval of personnel report
• Approval of monthly vouchers for period Feb 8-21, 2024
• Special recognitions for Lawrence High, Hillcrest Elementary, and Schwegler Elementary

The Board of Education approved a consent agenda including several procurement contracts and personnel updates. Key approvals included new band uniforms for Free State High School and a multi-year internet service contract.

• Approved purchase of 155 band uniforms and accessories from Fruhauf Uniforms, Inc. for $114,004.32 (7-0)
• Approved annual internet services from Wanrack at a district cost of $576.00 per month (7-0)
• Approved personnel report, including the selection of David Farve as Native American Student Service coordinator (7-0)
• Approved district and school disbursements for 02/08/2024 through 02/21/2024 (7-0)
• Approved meeting minutes (7-0)
• Approved amended agenda for February 26, 2024 meeting (7-0)

Board Business Meeting

This is a routine business meeting with procedural items including approval of the agenda, special recognitions, and a recess into executive session for legal matters. The board approved the consent agenda, which includes meeting minutes, personnel report, monthly vouchers for January 18 to February 7, 2024, and financial reports for the period ending December 31, 2023. No substantive policy decisions or public hearings are on the agenda.

• Recess to executive session to discuss attorney-client privileged matters
• Approval of personnel report (specific details not disclosed in agenda)
• Approval of monthly vouchers for 01/18/2024 – 02/07/2024
• Approval of financial reports including Cash Summary, Budget to Actual Summary for period ending December 31, 2023
• Special recognition for Sunflower Elementary School showcase and Billy Mills Middle School teacher

The Board of Education approved several items via a consent agenda, including financial reports and software renewals. The board also accepted a personnel report naming Summer Moeckel as the new principal of Deerfield Elementary.

• Approved 2024 PowerSchool BusinessPlus & Operations Modules renewal for $77,670.95
• Approved Integrated Pest Management agreement extension with Schendel Pest Services up to $50,000
• Approved personnel report including Summer Moeckel as Deerfield Elementary principal
• Approved Board Policy DJE - Purchasing on First Reading
• Approved Board Policy DJEB - Quality Control on First Reading
• Approved Board Policy DJED - Requirements for Bids and Quotations on First Reading
• Approved monthly vouchers for 01/18/2024 through 02/07/2024
• Approved financial reports for the period ending December 31, 2023

Board Report(s) Meeting

The Lawrence Public Schools Board of Education is meeting for a board report(s) meeting with a largely procedural agenda. The board will vote on the consent agenda, which includes approval of two board policies (AD and JBCA) on second reading, the personnel report, monthly vouchers, and meeting minutes. The board also recessed to executive session for attorney-client privileged matters.

• Approval of Board Policy AD - School District Attendance Areas on second reading, revising language from 'legal guardian' to 'person acting as a parent' to align with policy JBC
• Approval of Board Policy JBCA - Student Intradistrict Transfer or Building Reassignment on second reading, with the same language change
• Approval of monthly vouchers for district/school disbursements from 01/04/2024 to 01/17/2024
• Acceptance of personnel report as attached
• Approval of meeting minutes from Jan 8, 2024 board business meeting

The Board of Education increased the graduation requirement to 24 credits for the Class of 2028, exceeding the state minimum of 21. The board also approved mental health service agreements with Bert Nash and updated several district policies.

• Increased high school graduation requirement to 24 credits for Class of 2028 (7-0)
• Approved WRAP Therapeutic Program and Community Based Services MOUs with Bert Nash (7-0)
• Approved Board Policy AD - School District Attendance Areas (7-0)
• Approved Board Policy JBCA - Student Intradistrict Transfer or Building Reassignment (7-0)
• Approved Board Policy JH - Student Activities (7-0)
• Approved Board Policy DK - Student Activity Fund Management (7-0)
• Approved personnel report (7-0)
• Approved district and school disbursements for 01/04/2024 through 01/17/2024 (7-0)

Board Business Meeting

The board swore in four new/re-elected members and approved the consent agenda, which included a $47,600 contract with Occu-Tec for triennial asbestos inspections, along with routine items such as personnel reports and financial reports. Two items (executive session and high school graduation requirements) were postponed due to weather.

• Swearing in of new/re-elected board members Anne Costello, Yolanda Franklin, Carole Cadue-Blackwood, Shannon Kimball, and second-term member GR Gordon-Ross
• Approval of the consent agenda, including acceptance of meeting minutes, personnel report, monthly vouchers for 12/07/2023–01/03/2024, financial reports for November 2023, and a $47,600 asbestos inspection service agreement with Occu-Tec
• Board voted to postpone items 1.4 (Executive Session) and 3.1 (High School Graduation Requirements) to a later date due to weather
• Personnel report accepted as part of consent agenda
• Monthly voucher disbursement summary for the period 12/07/2023–01/03/2024 approved

The Board of Education approved several facility and operational items via a consent agenda. Key approvals included districtwide asbestos inspections and energy-saving lighting upgrades at two elementary schools. The board also authorized a bond refunding resolution and professional development payments.

• Approved $47,600 service agreement with Occu-Tec for districtwide asbestos inspections (7-0)
• Approved lighting upgrades at Schwegler and Sunflower Elementary Schools not to exceed $36,000 (7-0)
• Approved bond refunding resolution to award sale of bonds if minimum savings target of $2,500,000 is met (7-0)
• Approved $52,350 for AVID Summer Institute training registrations (7-0)
• Approved personnel report, meeting minutes, and monthly vouchers (7-0)
• Approved financial reports for the period ending November 30, 2023 (7-0)
• Approved amended agenda excluding items 1.4 and 3.1 (7-0)

Notice of Board Training

The Lawrence Public Schools Board of Education is holding a TrustCentric Professional Development Training on January 3, 2024, from 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm at the ESC (110 McDonald Dr.). The notice states that no board business will be discussed during this training session, which is scheduled under Board Policy BCAC.

• TrustCentric Professional Development Training
• Facilitators: Jay Minnick and Cory Scheer
• No board business will be discussed
• Training held at ESC, 110 McDonald Dr., Lawrence, KS