August 9, 2021

Board Digest

August 9, 2021

 

Following each board of education meeting, the Director of Communications recaps the board meeting in the Board Digest. To view the full agenda, click here.


Learning Without Limits

The board recognized Emily Payne, Emma Nord, Miley Proplesch, and Ella Shipley for their National History Day performance, which was selected by the National Women’s History Museum to be featured in a virtual showcase during the National History Day competition. Out of 155 applicants, they were one of twenty selected. The group presented at the Kansas State Board of Education the next day. 

Performance Title: Hedy Lamarr: More Than Just a Pretty Face
SMS Recognition


Superintendent Remarks

All of us are here tonight because we care about our kids. All of us here tonight want the best school system possible for our kids, parents, staff, and community. Some of us have expressed disagreement on how we accomplish this, but it is my hope that most of us in this auditorium and in our community can focus on what we agree on and work together to accomplish it. We all want what is best for our kids and we all want an excellent school district.

As we left last year, thinking about the impact of the pandemic on our students, both in learning loss and social-emotional needs, we begin the new school year with those same thoughts. Seaman Schools, and most schools in Kansas, will be thinking about and determining ways to approach and work through these priorities:

-Social and Emotional Supports
-Academic Achievement
-Attendance and student Engagement
-Communication with our Families
-Curriculum and Instruction
-Evidence and Evaluation of Learning

As with every new year, we are met with new challenges; still, we need to remain focused on the needs of our students and find opportunities to build togetherness and encouragement in our community. This district has come together during difficult times before and we can do it again because the success of each and every student is important to all of us.

As our board of education, you established our mission: to prepare each student for lifelong success through strong and healthy relationships, rigorous and relevant learning, and a responsive and caring culture that maximizes student talents, aspirations, and community contributions. Thank you for serving in the best manner possible that ensures the success of that mission for all students.
 
Dr. Noble
Dr. Steve Noble
Superintendent

President Remarks

Tonight, employees, students and community members gather together to discuss topics relevant to our community. I as one of those community members want to let those in attendance or watching online, know that your school board, your administration, your educational staff, and your support staff work very hard every day to provide our children the best opportunity for success. Each one of us sitting on this board, joined so we could make a difference, so we could ensure that our community stays strong. 

I am proud to serve such a highly engaged community and and looking forward to working through our differences together.  
Karl McNorton Recognition
Mr. Griffin also recognized Karl McNorton for his service on the USD 345 Board of Education. 

Keith Griffin
Keith Griffin 
USD 345 Board President

Board of Education Consent Agenda

The consent agenda contains items packaged into one agenda item. They are often routine and garner very little discussion. A full list of consent items can be found by visiting the BoardDocs website


District Namesake Committee Update

District Namesake Committee

Research

To this point:
  • This sub-committee has gathered historical research and synthesized a draft timeline of historical milestones for the Seaman district and community.
Where we are heading:
  • Historical research will be tied into the final report presented to the Board of Education.
“Red Couch” Community Conversations

To this point:
  • This sub-committee has created a process and script to conduct “red couch” interviews
    with stakeholders. The sessions are designed to help the committee identify themes as well as create space for healthy dialogue in the community.
  • So far, there have been sessions at Evergy Plaza, Performance Tire, Vikings Grill, NCC to name a few. The committee will be hosting more sessions in the district in the coming
    weeks.
Where we are heading:
  • The committee is analyzing and reviewing interviews.
  • “Red couch” sessions will be wrapped up by the end of August and the data and themes
    from these events will help inform the final report.
Survey

To this point:
  • This sub-committee drafted a survey and worked with KLC to deploy the questionnaire.
  • The purpose of the survey is not to be a formal poll or scientific, but to help the committee surface themes, gather stories, and hear from stakeholders.
  • There has been a vast response to the survey so far.
Where we are heading:
  • The committee is working with KLC’s research team to analyze and process the data
    coming in to help inform and shape the final report to the Board of Education.

Discussion Items 

  • Neighborhood Revitalization Plan
  • Teaching and Learning Report
  •  Special Services Report
  • Facilities Report
  •  Budget Report

  • Action Items (approved)

    • Bids: Midwest Transit in the amount of $173,280.00
    • Publication of 2021-2022 Budget and Revenue Neutral Rate
    • KASB Recommended Policy Updates
    • District Plan for Safe Return to In-Person Instruction and Continuity of Services

    Next 345 Board of Education Meeting

    The next regularly scheduled board meeting will take place on September 13. It is scheduled to start at 6:00 pm. The Seaman USD #345 Board of Education will plan to meet at the Seaman Education Center, 901 NW Lyman Rd.


    Board of Education Agenda

    To review previous board of education agendas, click here.


    How Can I Watch a Previous Board of Education Meeting?

    The video from the meeting will be available by the Tuesday at noon following the meeting. The video can be viewed by clicking here.

     

    Seaman School District USD #345
    901 NW Lyman Rd | Topeka, KS 66608