On Wednesday night the USD 383 board of education voted to comply with new state law after months of dissent. In 2015, the Kansas legislature passed H.B. 2104 which changes the state date of school board elections from the spring of odd-numbered years to the fall of odd-number years. The board has voiced their disapproval since because the legislation unfairly extends the term of all seven currently elected members. Board members Leah Fliter and Dave Colburn collaborated on the passed resolution which Rozell read aloud to the board. After consulting with the Kansas Association of School Boards, six members voted in favor of the resolution while Aaron Estabrook abstained.
The board also continued the conversation on school finance input as state leaders prepare to discuss yet another new funding formula this spring. Over the course of the fall, assistant superintendent Eric Reid has spoken with staff and board members regarding recommendations they have for any new financing. On Nov. 11, the board will be hosting a community input session at Eisenhower Middle School before they finalize their document and send it to the state. Next Thursday’s forum precedes the more controversial mascot forum to be held in Rezac Auditorium on Nov. 30.
The board approved the hiring of a long-distance speech language pathologist, and also heard reports on the virtual academy, capital outlay and assessments. They will meet again on Nov. 16.
