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The board discussed some new options available for bus schedules that could allow more flexibility in school start and dismissal times.
Redistricting the elementary boundaries put regular busing at only three of the six neighborhood schools. As a result, the district has the ability to start elementary and secondary schools closer to the same time using the current number of buses. The time adjustment could be accomplished by consolidating elementary and secondary rural bus routes and picking up all rural students at the same time.
Schedules being considered include an earlier start for elementary schools, at approximately 8 am, with secondary schools starting between 8:15-8:30 am. Dismissal times may range from 3:10-3:30 pm, depending on several variables including length of lunch periods, PLC structure, etc.
This change would ease concerns about the one-hour difference in current elementary and secondary start times, research on teenage sleep patterns, early rural route pickup times (starting at 6:30 am) and the length of the school day especially for elementary students dropped off by parents up to an hour before school starts.
Board members were interested in having more information about possible start/end time scenarios, including how the PLC structure could be continued for teachers. The district administration will gather feedback from staff, parents and students and present a proposal at the March 11 board meeting. All staff will have a chance to give feedback on possible changes to the schedule next week.
Resources for High School Classes
The board approved the purchase of primary resources for Algebra I at EMS and EHS, English Language Arts, AP American Government and AP Psychology at EHS.
Re-employment of Administrators
The board approved a recommendation to extend contracts of current district, building and FHSEC administrators.
Policy Updates
The board approved policy updates in student section J related to student health services and discrimination.
Purchase Used Bus
The board approved the purchase of a used special education bus for $60,800.
Board Reports
FHTC Board of Trustees - Grant Riles reported the technical college is working on a partnership agreement with the Industrial Engineering Technical Program in Lawrence.
Emporia Recreation Commission - Mike Helbert reported fitness center membership at the Rec Center are four times higher now that the new fitness room is open
Community Conversation - Three board members and several staff members were among nearly 100 people who attended the Community Conversation with the Education Commissioner last week.
KSHSAA Elections - The board voted to support Mike Crouch as a candidate for KSHSAA Board of Directors.
Consent Agenda
The board approved
- A contract with Valu-Net for internet services
- Addition of Applied Geometry to EHS course offerings
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