The USD 508 board of education held a regular meeting on Monday, August 14, 2023 at 6:00 p.m. at 1108 Military Ave. Members present were: DeAnne Binns, Linda Crotts, Casey Eaton, Kerri Jensen and Carrie Williams. Members absent were: Josh Sweaney and Jami Thiessen. Also present were: David Pendergraft, Superintendent, Carrie Oakes, Board Clerk, Cory White, HS Principal, Cord Baldwin, HS Assistant Principal, Jason Walker, MS Principal, Kevin Wade, CS Principal, Kenny Boeckman, LS Principal, Art Roberts, Alternative Learning Director and Arthur Commons, Curriculum Coordinator.

President Eaton called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.

Carrie Williams led the board and guests in the pledge of allegiance.

Kerri Jensen made a motion to approve the agenda as presented. DeAnne Binns seconded. Carried 5-0.

Carrie Williams made a motion to approve the consent agenda which included approval of the bills, approval of minutes from July 10 and approval of the treasurer’s report. Kerri Jensen seconded. Carried 5-0.

Superintendent Pendergraft updated the board on the 2023-2024 budget. There will be a Revenue Neutral Rate hearing and a budget hearing on September 11, 2023 during the regularly scheduled board meeting.

Cory White discussed changes to the HS Student Handbook

Superintendent Pendergraft discussed changes to the USD 508 Daycare Handbook.

Kerri Jensen made a motion to accept all handbook changes. Linda Crotts seconded. Carried 5-0.

Superintendent Pendergraft discussed online enrollment, current enrollment numbers, procedures for Mondays at Lincoln Elementary, procedures for upcoming policy changes and the HS Musical.

Kerri Jensen made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss an individual employee to the non-elected personnel exception under KOMA, and the open meeting will resume in 5 minutes in the boardroom. This meeting is to include the board, Superintendent and administrators as needed. DeAnne Binns seconded. Carried 5-0.

7:11 p.m. Enter executive session.

7:16 p.m. Resume regular session.

Kerri Jensen made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss employeremployee negotiations under KOMA, and the open meeting will resume in XX minutes in the boardroom. This meeting is to include the board, Superintendent and administrators as needed. DeAnne Binns seconded. Carried 5-0.

7:16 p.m. Enter executive session.

7:21 p.m. Resume regular session.

Kerri Jensen made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss employer employee negotiations under KOMA, and the open meeting will resume in XX minutes in the boardroom. This meeting is to include the board, Superintendent and administrators as needed. DeAnne Binns seconded. Carried 5-0.

7:21 p.m. Enter executive session.

7:26 p.m. Resume regular session.

Superintendent Pendergraft made a recommendation to hire Randi Wixon as Senior Sponsor, Rebecca Selenke as Kindergarten Paraprofessional, Erica LaForge as PK Paraprofessional and Alayna Roberts as Junior Sponsor. Linda Crotts made a motion to accept the recommendation as presented. Carrie Williams seconded. Carried 5-0.

Kerri Jensen made a motion to approve the negotiated agreement for 2023-2024 as presented. DeAnne Binns seconded. Carried 5-0.

Superintendent Pendergraft recommended a 2% increase for classified and administrative staff and a $1/hour raise for daycare employees. Carrie Williams made a motion to approve the increases as presented. Linda Crotts seconded. Carried 5-0.

7:32 p.m. Meeting adjourned.

Carrie Oakes                               Casey Eaton

Clerk/Board of Education            President/Board of Education

The USD 508 board of education held a regular meeting on Monday, July 10, 2023 at 6:00 p.m. at 1108 Military Ave. Members present were: DeAnne Binns, Casey Eaton, Kerri Jensen, Josh Sweaney and Jami Thiessen. Members absent were: Linda Crotts and Carrie Williams. Also present were: David Pendergraft, Superintendent, Carrie Oakes, Board Clerk, Cory White, HS Principal, Cord Baldwin, HS Assistant Principal, Art Roberts, Alternative Learning Director, Jason Walker, MS Principal, Kenny Boeckman, LS Principal and Arthur Commons, Curriculum Coordinator.

President Eaton called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.

Josh Sweaney led the board and guests in the pledge of allegiance.

Jami Thiessen made a motion to approve the agenda as presented. Josh Sweaney seconded. Carried 5-0.

Josh Sweaney made a motion to approve the consent agenda which included approval of the bills, approval of minutes from June 12 and approval of the treasurer’s report. Kerri Jensen seconded. Carried 5-0.

Jami Thiessen made a motion to consider exceeding the Revenue Neutral Rate for the 2023-2024 School Year. DeAnne Binns seconded. Carried 5-0.

Superintendent Pendergraft discussed the Student Safety Task Force.

Superintendent Pendergraft sought a motion to negotiate the property at 0 West 16th, Baxter Springs, KS with the City of Baxter Springs. Josh Sweaney made motion to allow Superintendent Pendergraft to negotiate on behalf of the district. Kerri Jensen seconded. Carried 5-0.

Jason Walker reported on a change to the MS handbook.

Cory White reported on non-public school participation in KSHSAA sponsored activities.

Arthur Commons reported on the Early Literacy Instruction Requirements.

Kerri Jensen made a motion to accept the MS handbook changes and to adopt the Early Literacy Instruction Requirements. Jami Thiessen seconded. Carried 5-0.

Jami Thiessen made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss an individual employee to the non-elected personnel exception under KOMA, and the open meeting will resume in 3 minutes in the boardroom. This meeting is to include the board, Superintendent and administrators as needed. DeAnne Binns seconded. Carried 5-0.

6:21 p.m. Enter executive session.

6:24 p.m. Resume regular session.

Superintendent Pendergraft made a recommendation to hire Travis Avery as the Head HS Track Coach. Josh Sweaney made a motion to accept the recommendation as presented. Jami Thiessen seconded. Carried 5-0.

6:25 p.m. Meeting adjourned.

Carrie Oakes                              Casey Eaton

Clerk/Board of Education           President/Board of Education

The USD 508 board of education held a regular meeting on Monday, June 12, 2023 at 6:00 p.m. at 1108 Military Ave. Members present were: DeAnne Binns, Linda Crotts, Casey Eaton, Kerri Jensen and Carrie Williams. Members absent were: Josh Sweaney and Jami Thiessen. Also present were: David Pendergraft, Superintendent, Carrie Oakes, Board Clerk, Cory White, HS Principal, Art Roberts, Alternative Learning Director, Kevin Wade, CS Principal, Arthur Commons, Curriculum Coordinator, Lindsay Hebert, Amber Marrett and Jeff Street.

President Eaton called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.

Carrie Williams led the board and guests in the pledge of allegiance and Jeff Street led in prayer.

Carrie Williams made a motion to approve the agenda as presented. DeAnne Binns seconded. Carried 5-0.

Linda Crotts made a motion to approve the consent agenda which included approval of the bills, approval of minutes from May 8 and approval of the treasurer’s report. Kerri Jensen seconded. Carried 5-0.

President Eaton opened the hearing on republication of the proposed budgets. No one present had any questions or comments. Kerri Jensen made a motion to approve the proposed budgets as presented. DeAnne Binns seconded. Carried 5-0.

Superintendent Pendergraft recommended Food Service prices for the 2023-2024 school year for approval (Student Breakfast - $2.35, Elementary student Lunch - $3.25, Secondary Student Lunch - $3.50, Adult Breakfast - $3.05, Adult Lunch - $4.85). Linda Crotts made a motion to approve the recommendation. Kerri Jensen seconded. Carried 5-0.

Lindsay Hebert and Amber Marrett spoke to the board about the welfare of the students in USD 508.

Kerri Jensen made a motion to form a student safety task force to have MDT meetings and for the purpose of establishing policy and procedure for keeping our students safe. DeAnne Binns seconded. Carried 5-0.

Superintendent Pendergraft asked the board for approval for the Superintendent and Clerk to close out the 2022-2023 year and make transfers as needed. Linda Crotts made a motion to approve the 2022-2023 closeout. Carrie Williams seconded. Carried 5-0.

Carrie Williams made a motion to adopt the District Needs Assessment for the 2023-2024 school year. Kerri Jensen seconded. Carried 5-0.

Kerri Jensen made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss an individual employee to the non-elected personnel exception under KOMA, and the open meeting will resume in 10 minutes in the boardroom. This meeting is to include the board, Superintendent and administrators as needed. Linda Crotts seconded. Carried 5-0.

7:15 p.m. Enter executive session.

7:25 p.m. Resume regular session.

Kerri Jensen made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss an individual employee to the non-elected personnel exception under KOMA, and the open meeting will resume in 5 minutes in the boardroom. This meeting is to include the board, Superintendent and administrators as needed. Linda Crotts seconded. Carried 5-0.

7:25 p.m. Enter executive session.

7:30 p.m. Resume regular session.

Superintendent Pendergraft presented a resignation letter from Angela Yarbrough for HS Track. Carrie Williams made a motion to accept the resignation as presented. Kerri Jensen seconded. Carried 5-0.

Superintendent Pendergraft made a recommendation to hire/reassign the following:

Ana Zustiak – Junior Class Sponsor

Bill Buck – HS Assistant Football

Cord Baldwin & Arthur Commons – HS Athletic Director

Alan Hibler & Kelly Nicholson – MS Athletic Director

Kassity Graves – Elementary Teacher

Abby Cassell – Lincoln Elementary Secretary

Auston Himes – BIST Supervisor

Michael Pearce - RCD Solutions Monitor

Linda Crotts made a motion to accept the recommendations as presented. DeAnne Binns seconded. Carried 5-0.

7:45 p.m. Meeting adjourned.

Carrie Oakes                                           Casey Eaton

Clerk/Board of Education                        President/Board of Education

The USD 508 board of education held a regular meeting on Monday, May 8, 2023 at 6:00 p.m. at 1108 Military Ave. Members present were: DeAnne Binns, Linda Crotts, Casey Eaton, Kerri Jensen, Jami Thiessen and Carrie Williams. Members absent were: Josh Sweaney. Also present were: David Pendergraft, Superintendent, Carrie Oakes, Board Clerk, Cory White, HS Principal, Jason Walker, MS Principal, Kevin Wade, CS Principal, Art Roberts, Alternative Learning Director, Jess McMinn, OPAA! Director, Bert Kellum and Steve Bell, First Assembly of God.

President Eaton called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.

Jami Thiessen led the board and guests in the pledge of allegiance and Steve Bell led in prayer.

Jami Thiessen made a motion to approve the agenda as presented. DeAnne Binns seconded. Carried 6-0.

Linda Crotts made a motion to approve the consent agenda which included approval of the bills, approval of minutes from April 10 and approval of the treasurer’s report. Carrie Williams seconded. Carried 6-0.

Superintendent Pendergraft presented resolution #050823 for the County Neighborhood Revitalization Plan and the Inter Local Agreement/Neighborhood Revitalization Plan to be signed by the Superintendent. Carrie Williams made a motion to approve the resolution as presented. DeAnne Binns seconded. Carried 6-0.

Superintendent Pendergraft updated the board on the food service contract renewal and recommended that the district accept a bid from OPAA Food Service for the 2023-2024 school year. Kerri Jensen made a motion to accept the recommendation as presented. Jami Thiessen seconded. Carried 6-0.

Superintendent Pendergraft updated the board on the Needs Assessmentprocess and will continue gathering input and will make a presentation at the June board meeting.

Superintendent Pendergraft reported the audit revealed additional funding is available in the General, At Risk, SE and Virtual funds. Superintendent

Pendergraft asked the board to republish the budgets in order to capture these funds. Kerri Jensen made a motion to support Superintendent Pendergraft’s request to republish. Carrie Williams seconded. Carried 6-0.

Jami Thiessen made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss an individual employee to the non-elected personnel exception under KOMA, and the open meeting will resume in 15 minutes in the boardroom. This meeting is to include the board, Superintendent and administrators as needed. Linda Crotts seconded. Carried 6-0.

6:42 p.m. Enter executive session.

6:57 p.m. Resume regular session.

Jami Thiessen made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss an individual employee to the non-elected personnel exception under KOMA, and the open meeting will resume in 10 minutes in the boardroom. This meeting is to include the board, Superintendent and administrators as needed. Linda Crotts seconded. Carried 6-0.

6:57 p.m. Enter executive session.

7:07 p.m. Resume regular session.

Superintendent Pendergraft presented a retirement letter from Lawana Binns as Elementary Secretary, and resignation letters from Shelly Bottorff, Junior Sponsor, Nancy Daniels, Junior Sponsor, Art Roberts, Senior Sponsor and Kenny Boeckman, HS Athletic Director. Linda Crotts made a motion to accept the retirement/resignations as presented. Kerri Jensen seconded. Carried 6-0. 

Superintendent Pendergraft made a recommendation to hire Sam Eddington for MS Football Coach. Jami Thiessen made a motion to accept the recommendation as presented. Carrie Williams seconded. Carried 6-0.

Superintendent Pendergraft made a recommendation to renew certified contracts for the 2023-2024 school year. Kerri Jensen made a motion to accept the recommendation. DeAnne Binns seconded. Carried 6-0

7:11 p.m. Meeting adjourned.

Carrie Oakes                            Casey Eaton

Clerk/Board of Education         President/Board of Education

The USD 508 board of education held a regular meeting on Monday, April 10, 2023 at 6:00 p.m. at 1108 Military Ave. Members present were: DeAnne Binns, Linda Crotts, Casey Eaton, Kerri Jensen, Josh Sweaney, Jami Thiessen and Carrie Williams. Also present were: David Pendergraft, Superintendent, Carrie Oakes, Board Clerk, Cory White, HS Principal, Jason Walker, MS Principal, Kevin Wade, CS Principal and Arthur Commons, Curriculum Coordinator. President Eaton called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.

Josh Sweaney led the board and guests in the pledge of allegiance.

DeAnne Binns made a motion to approve the agenda as presented. Kerri Jensen seconded. Carried 7-0.

Jami Thiessen made a motion to approve the consent agenda which included approval of the bills, approval of minutes from March 6 and approval of the treasurer’s report. Linda Crotts seconded. Carried 7-0.

Superintendent Pendergraft updated the board on schedule changes for the 2023-2024 school year.

Superintendent Pendergraft requested that the board forgive a snow day on January 30, 2023. Jami Thiessen made a motion to forgive the snow day as requested. Kerri Jensen seconded. Carried 7-0.

Kerri Jensen made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss employeremployee negotiations under KOMA, and the open meeting will resume in 10 minutes in the boardroom. This meeting is to include the board, Superintendent and administrators as needed. Carrie Williams seconded. Carried 7-0.

6:38 p.m. Enter executive session.

6:48 p.m. Resume regular session.

Kerri Jensen made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss an individual employee to the non-elected personnel exception under KOMA, and the open meeting will resume in 10 minutes in the boardroom. This meeting is to include the board, Superintendent and administrators as needed. Carrie Williams seconded. Carried 7-0.

6:48 p.m. Enter executive session.

6:58 p.m. Resume regular session.

Superintendent Pendergraft recommended hiring Shayna Spaulding, Bus Monitor and Nichole Conner & Cyndi Kinsch, MS Concessions. Kerri Jensen made a motion to accept the recommendations as presented. DeAnne Binns seconded.

Carried 7-0.

Linda Crotts discussed the district daycare.

7:07 p.m. Meeting adjourned.

Carrie Oakes                                Casey Eaton

Clerk/Board of Education              President/Board of Education

The USD 508 board of education held a regular meeting on Monday, March 6, 2023 at 6:00 p.m. at 1108 Military Ave. Members present were: DeAnne Binns, Linda Crotts, Casey Eaton, Kerri Jensen, Josh Sweaney, Jami Thiessen and Carrie Williams. Also present were: David Pendergraft, Superintendent, Carrie Oakes, Board Clerk, Cory White, HS Principal, Cord Baldwin, HS Assistant Principal, Jason Walker, MS Principal, Kevin Wade, CS Principal, Kenny  Boeckman, LS Principal, Art Roberts, Alternative Learning Director, Arthur Commons, Curriculum Coordinator, Daryl Eagon, Diehl, Banwart & Bolton, and Cody Graves, First Christian Church.

President Eaton called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.

Josh Sweaney led the board and guests in the pledge of allegiance and Cody Graves led in prayer.

DeAnne Binns made a motion to approve the agenda as presented. Jami Thiessen seconded. Carried 7-0. 

Kerri Jensen made a motion to approve the consent agenda which included approval of the bills, approval of minutes from February 13 and approval of the treasurer’s report. Linda Crotts seconded. Carried 7-0.

Daryl Eagon, CPA of Diehl, Banwart & Bolton, presented the audit findings for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2022. Josh Sweaney made a motion to accept the audit report for fiscal year ending June 30, 2022 as presented. Carrie Williams seconded. Carried 7-0.

Superintendent Pendergraft discussed graduation and esports. Carrie Williams made a motion to move forward with purchasing esports equipment. Jami Thiessen seconded. Carried 7-0.

Principal White discussed changes to the HS schedule for the 2023-2024 school year.

Jami Thiessen made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss an individual employee to the non-elected personnel exception under KOMA, and the open meeting will resume in 15 minutes in the boardroom. This meeting is to  include the board, Superintendent and administrators as needed. Kerri Jensen seconded. Carried 7-0.

6:51 p.m. Enter executive session.

7:06 p.m. Resume regular session.

Jami Thiessen made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss employer-employee negotiations under KOMA, and the open meeting will resume in 15 minutes in the boardroom. This meeting is to include the board, Superintendent and administrators as needed. Kerri Jensen seconded. Carried 7-0.

7:06 p.m. Enter executive session.

7:21 p.m. Resume regular session.

Jami Thiessen made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss employer-employee negotiations under KOMA, and the open meeting will resume in 10 minutes in the boardroom. This meeting is to include the board, Superintendent and administrators as needed. Kerri Jensen seconded. Carried 7-0.

7:21 p.m. Enter executive session.

7:31 p.m. Resume regular session.

Jami Thiessen made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss employer-employee negotiations under KOMA, and the open meeting will resume in 5 minutes in the boardroom. This meeting is to include the board, Superintendent and administrators as needed. Kerri Jensen seconded. Carried 7-0.

7:31 p.m. Enter executive session.

7:36 p.m. Resume regular session.

Superintendent Pendergraft presented letters of resignation from Bailey Arnall, Bus Para, Karen Hembree, MS Concessions and Arthur Commons, MS Head Basketball. Kerri Jensen made a motion to accept the resignations as presented. Jami Thiessen seconded. Carried 7-0.

Superintendent Pendergraft recommended hiring Jadelyn Wyrick, HS Assistant Softball and Micah Crotts, MS Volleyball. Josh Sweaney made a motion to accept the recommendations as presented. DeAnne Binns seconded. Carried 7- 0.

Linda Crotts made a motion to extend the contract of Superintendent Pendergraft through the 2025-2026 school year. Jami Thiessen seconded. Carried 7-0.

Superintendent Pendergraft made a recommendation to extend all administrator contracts through the 2024-2025 school year. Josh Sweaney made a motion that all administrator contracts be extended through the 2024-2025 school year. Kerri Jensen seconded. Carried. 7-0.

Linda Crotts discussed legislation and a KASB resolution supporting public schools and invited any board member wanting to show their support an opportunity to sign the resolution.

7:43 p.m. Meeting adjourned.

Carrie Oakes                              Casey Eaton

Clerk/Board of Education           President/Board of Education

The USD 508 board of education held a regular meeting on Monday, February 13, 2023 at 6:00 p.m. at 1108 Military Ave. Members present were: DeAnne Binns, Linda Crotts, Casey Eaton, Kerri Jensen, Josh Sweaney, Jami Thiessen and Carrie Williams. Also present were: David Pendergraft, Superintendent, Carrie Oakes, Board Clerk, Cory White, HS Principal, Jason Walker, MS Principal, Kevin Wade, CS Principal, Kenny Boeckman, LS Principal, Art Roberts, Alternative Learning Director, Arthur Commons, Curriculum Director, Ross Davis, Technology Director, Wendy Zustiak, Caitlin McCoy and Jeff Street, First Baptist Church.

President Eaton called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.

Josh Sweaney led the board and guests in the pledge of allegiance and Jeff Street led in prayer.

Kerri Jensen made a motion to approve the agenda as presented. DeAnne Binns seconded. Carried 7-0.

DeAnne Binns made a motion to approve the consent agenda which included approval of the bills, approval of minutes from January 9 and approval of the treasurer’s report. Linda Crotts seconded. Carried 7-0.

Superintendent Pendergraft presented the proposed 2023-2024 school calendar for consideration.

Jami Thiessen made a motion to approve the 2023-2024 school calendar. Kerri Jensen seconded. Carried 7-0.

Superintendent Pendergraft updated the board on a possible esports program for the HS.

Kerri Jensen made a motion to research esports further. DeAnne Binns seconded. Carried 7-0

Superintendent Pendergraft updated the board on the upcoming food service renewal.

Superintendent Pendergraft updated the board on drug policy adjustments.

Josh Sweaney made a motion to amend the drug policy regarding required counseling. Linda Crotts seconded. Carried 7-0.

Kerri Jensen made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss an individual employee to the non-elected personnel exception under KOMA, and the open meeting will resume in 10 minutes in the boardroom. This meeting is to include the board, Superintendent and administrators as needed. Josh Sweaney seconded. Carried 7-0.

7:08 p.m. Enter executive session.

7:18 p.m. Resume regular session.

Kerri Jensen made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss an individual employee to the non-elected personnel exception under KOMA, and the open meeting will resume in 5 minutes in the boardroom. This meeting is to include the board, Superintendent and administrators as needed. Josh Sweaney seconded. Carried 7-0.

7:18 p.m. Enter executive session.

7:23 p.m. Resume regular session.

Superintendent Pendergraft presented a letter of resignation from Taylor Boucher as HS Social Science at the end of the 2022-2023 school year. Jami Thiessen made a motion to accept the resignation as presented. Carrie Williams seconded. Carried 7-0.

Superintendent Pendergraft recommended hiring Tyler Zustiak for Secondary Vocal Music (2023-2024 school year) and Jeff McCoy for MS Assistant Track (2022-2023 school year). Kerri Jensen made a motion to accept the recommendations as presented. Josh Sweaney seconded. Carried 7-0.

Josh Sweaney made a motion to adjourn. Kerri Jensen seconded. Carried 7-0.

7:26 p.m. Meeting adjourned.

Carrie Oakes                                             Casey Eaton

Clerk/Board of Education                          President/Board of Education

The USD 508 board of education held a regular meeting on Monday, January 9, 2023 at 6:00 p.m. at 1108 Military Ave. Members present were: DeAnne Binns, Linda Crotts, Casey Eaton, Kerri Jensen, Josh Sweaney, Jami Thiessen (via phone) and Carrie Williams. Also present were: David Pendergraft, Superintendent, Carrie Oakes, Board Clerk, Cory White, HS Principal, Cord Baldwin, HS Assistant Principal, Kevin Wade, CS Principal, Kenny Boeckman, LS Principal, Art Roberts, Alternative Learning Director and Jeff Street, First Baptist Church.

President Eaton called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.

Josh Sweaney led the board and guests in the pledge of allegiance and Jeff Street led in prayer.

Kerri Jensen made a motion to approve the agenda, adding item b, land acquisition, under VI. DeAnne Binns seconded. Carried 7-0.

Linda Crotts made a motion to approve the consent agenda which included approval of the bills, approval of minutes from December 12 and approval of the treasurer’s report. Kerri Jensen seconded. Carried 7-0.

President Eaton opened the floor for election of officers. Josh Sweaney made a motion to elect Casey Eaton as president. Carrie Williams seconded. Carried 6-1, with Casey Eaton abstaining.

Josh Sweaney made a motion to elect DeAnne Binns as vice president. Linda Crotts seconded. Carried 6-1, with DeAnne Binns abstaining.

Josh Sweaney made a motion to elect Jami Thiessen as governmental relation contact. Kerri Jensen seconded. Jami Thiessen made a motion to elect Kerri Jensen. Carrie Williams seconded. Jami Thiessen received 2 votes, Kerri Jensen received 5 votes. Carried 5-2.

Josh Sweaney made a motion to elect Linda Crotts as the representative to the SEK Interlocal 637 board. DeAnne Binns made a motion to cease nominations. Josh Sweaney seconded. Carried 6-1, with Linda Crotts abstaining. Linda Crotts received 6 votes. Carried 6-1, with Linda Crotts abstaining.

Superintendent Pendergraft updated the board on the upcoming food service contract renewal, an upcoming ceremony for Don Karnes to the Kansas Baseball Coaches Association Hall of Fame and an update on our daycare.

Superintendent Pendergraft updated the board of various items that the district would like to surplus.

Josh Sweaney made a motion to allow Superintendent Pendergaft to list said items on Purple Wave. DeAnne Binns seconded. Carried 7-0.

Linda Crotts made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss employer-employee negotiations under KOMA, and the open meeting will resume in 20 minutes in the boardroom. This meeting is to include the board, Superintendent and administrators as needed. Kerri Jensen seconded. Carried 7-0.

6:19 p.m. Enter executive session.

6:39 p.m. Resume regular session.

Linda Crotts made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss the acquisition of real property under KOMA, and the open meeting will resume in 20 minutes in the boardroom. This meeting is to include the board, Superintendent and administrators as needed. Kerri Jensen seconded. Carried 7-0.

6:39 p.m. Enter executive session.

6:59 p.m. Resume regular session.

Linda Crotts made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss the acquisition of real property under KOMA, and the open meeting will resume in 15 minutes in the boardroom. This meeting is to include the board, Superintendent and administrators as needed. Kerri Jensen seconded. Carried 7-0.

6:59 p.m. Enter executive session.

7:14 p.m. Resume regular session.

Linda Crotts made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss the acquisition of real property under KOMA, and the open meeting will resume in 10 minutes in the boardroom. This meeting is to include the board, Superintendent and administrators as needed. Kerri Jensen seconded. Carried 7-0.

7:14 p.m. Enter executive session.

7:24 p.m. Resume regular session.

Superintendent Pendergraft recommended continuing discussion and creating a calendar for a 4-day week for the 2023-2024 school year. Linda Crotts made a motion to approve the recommendation. Jami Thiessen seconded. Carried 7-0.

7:25 p.m. Meeting adjourned.

Carrie Oakes                               Casey Eaton

Clerk/Board of Education            President/Board of Education

The USD 508 board of education held a regular meeting on Monday, December 12, 2022 at 6:00 p.m. at 1108 Military Ave. Members present were: DeAnne Binns, Linda Crotts, Casey Eaton, Kerri Jensen, Josh Sweaney and Carrie Williams. Members absent were: Jami Thiessen. Also present were: David Pendergraft, Superintendent, Carrie Oakes, Board Clerk, Cory White, HS Principal, Cord Baldwin, HS Assistant Principal, Kevin Wade, CS Principal, Kenny Boeckman, LS Principal, Art Roberts, Alternative Learning Director, Arthur Commons, Curriculum Coordinator, Sam Eddington and Amber Helwig, Columbus News-Report.

President Eaton called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.

Josh Sweaney led the board and guests in the pledge of allegiance.

Linda Crotts made a motion to approve the agenda as presented. DeAnne Binns seconded. Carried 6-0.

Kerri Jensen made a motion to approve the consent agenda which included approval of the bills, approval of minutes from November 14 and approval of the treasurer’s report. DeAnne Binns seconded. Carried 6-0.

Superintendent Pendergraft introduced Sam Eddington to the board and guests.

Josh Sweaney made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss employer-employee negotiations under KOMA, and the open meeting will resume in 20 minutes in the boardroom. This meeting is to include the board, Superintendent and administrators as needed. Kerri Jensen seconded. Carried 6-0.

6:06 p.m. Enter executive session.

6:26 p.m. Resume regular session.

Josh Sweaney made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss an individual employee pursuant to the non-elected personnel exception under KOMA, and the open meeting will resume in 15 minutes in the boardroom. This meeting is to include the board, Superintendent and administrators as needed. Kerri Jensen seconded. Carried 6-0.

6:26 p.m. Enter executive session.

6:41 p.m. Resume regular session.

Josh Sweaney made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss an individual employee pursuant to the non-elected personnel exception under KOMA, and the open meeting will resume in 10 minutes in the boardroom. This meeting is to include the board, Superintendent and administrators as needed. Kerri Jensen seconded. Carried 6-0.

6:41 p.m. Enter executive session.

6:51 p.m. Resume regular session.

Josh Sweaney made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss an individual employee pursuant to the non-elected personnel exception under KOMA, and the open meeting will resume in 10 minutes in the boardroom. This meeting is to include the board, Superintendent and administrators as needed. Kerri Jensen seconded. Carried 6-0.

6:51 p.m. Enter executive session.

7:01 p.m. Resume regular session.

Superintendent Pendergraft recommended hiring Billie Jo Humphrey (starting January 3) for Custodian, Sam Eddington for HS Science (2023-2024 school year) and Jeff McCoy for HS Head Football. Kerri Jensen made a motion to accept the recommendations as presented. Carrie Williams seconded. Carried 6-0.

7:02 p.m. Meeting adjourned.

Carrie Oakes                                  Casey Eaton

Clerk/Board of Education               President/Board of Education

The USD 508 board of education held a regular meeting on Monday, November 14, 2022 at 6:00 p.m. at 1108 Military Ave. Members present were: DeAnne Binns, Linda Crotts, Casey Eaton, Kerri Jensen, Jami Thiessen and Carrie Williams. Members absent were: Josh Sweaney. Also present were: David Pendergraft, Superintendent, Carrie Oakes, Board Clerk, Cory White, HS Principal, Cord Baldwin, HS Assistant Principal, Kevin Wade, CS Principal, Kenny Boeckman, LS Principal, Art Roberts, Virtual Coordinator, Arthur Commons, Curriculum Coordinator and Amber Helwig, Columbus News-Report.

President Eaton called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Jami Thiessen led the board and guests in the pledge of allegiance. 

Jami Thiessen made a motion to approve the agenda, adding the approval of minutes from the October 21 meeting. Kerri Jensen seconded. Carried 6-0.

Kerri Jensen made a motion to approve the consent agenda which included approval of the bills, approval of minutes from October 10 and 21 and approval of the treasurer’s report. Linda Crotts seconded. Carried 6-0.

Superintendent Pendergraft updated the board on two amendments to policy DFAC.

Linda Crotts made a motion to adopt the presented amendments to policy DFAC. Jami Thiessen seconded. Carried 6-0.

Superintendent Pendergraft updated the board on the upcoming premium pay for employees, the forum at Central School and the Hometown Hero banquet.

Art Roberts spoke with the board about an alternative program for the district.

Jami Thiessen made a motion to approve an alternative program for the district. DeAnne Binns seconded. Carried 6-0.

Kerri Jensen made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss an individual employee pursuant to the non-elected personnel exception under KOMA, and the open meeting will resume in 15 minutes in the boardroom. This meeting is to include the board, Superintendent and administrators as needed. Linda Crotts seconded. Carried 6-0.

6:17 p.m. Enter executive session.

6:32 p.m. Resume regular session.

Kerri Jensen made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss employer-employee negotiations under KOMA, and the open meeting will resume in 20 minutes in the boardroom. This meeting is to include the board, Superintendent and administrators as needed. Linda Crotts seconded. Carried 6-0.

6:32 p.m. Enter executive session.

6:52 p.m. Resume regular session.

Kerri Jensen made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss employer-employee negotiations under KOMA, and the open meeting will resume in 10 minutes in the boardroom. This meeting is to include the board, Superintendent and administrators as needed. Linda Crotts seconded. Carried 6-0.

6:52 p.m. Enter executive session.

7:02 p.m. Resume regular session.

Kerri Jensen made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss employer-employee negotiations under KOMA, and the open meeting will resume in 10 minutes in the boardroom. This meeting is to include the board, Superintendent and administrators as needed. Linda Crotts seconded. Carried 6-0.

7:02 p.m. Enter executive session.

7:12 p.m. Resume regular session.

Superintendent Pendergraft presented retirement letters from Brenda Locke, Secondary Vocal Music Teacher (end of 22-23 school year) and William Davis, HS Custodian (effective 12/30/22). He also presented resignations from Russell Burr, HS Head Football Coach and Tonya Burggraf, MS Head Volleyball. DeAnne Binns made a motion to accept the recommendations as presented. Linda Crotts seconded. Carried 6-0.

7:14 p.m. Meeting adjourned.

Carrie Oakes                                           Casey Eaton

Clerk/Board of Education                        President/Board of Education