Board Members: Kinnie Ledford, president; Jalaine Richardson, vice-president; Sarah Morton; Andrea Ball; Ed Trimmer; Roy Andreas, Gregg Follmer
Communications
- USD 465 Mission Statement
Board members read the USD 465 mission statement: 'Developing Responsible Citizens for the Future’. - Recognition of Visitors
Visitors introduced themselves.
Presentation – Taher Food Service
Taher Food Service Director Dawn Williams and Central Kitchen Manager Carol Ann Archer presented an update to the Board of Education and shared results from recent district food service surveys. Participation increased significantly in the latest survey cycle. While much of the feedback was positive, concerns were noted regarding menu variety and portion sizes. It was emphasized that both portion sizes and nutritional requirements are strictly regulated by state and federal guidelines, which can limit local flexibility.
Key Points Shared:
- All schools provide daily fruit and vegetable bars with unlimited access for students.
- Scratch-made items such as lasagna, meatloaf, and other entrées are prepared regularly, despite a common perception that meals are primarily prepackaged.
- When both options are available, students often choose familiar convenience items over scratch-prepared meals.
- Ongoing staff training is focused on improving flavor while staying within required sodium and sugar limits.
- Staffing continues to be a challenge. Recruitment efforts are ongoing, including the addition of a “floater” position to provide support across buildings as needed.
Taher leadership will begin incorporating student suggestion opportunities and will expand communication with families to provide greater understanding of nutrition regulations and meal planning requirements.
The Board thanks Dawn Williams, Carol Ann Archer, and the Taher leadership team for their continued dedication to providing nutritious, high-quality meals for all students and for their proactive approach to responding to feedback and improving the food service program.
Presentation – Director of Public Information
Katie Mays, Director of Public Information, presented updated recruitment and marketing materials designed to strengthen district branding. Materials feature a cohesive, professional look and include tools for use at job fairs and recruitment events. Early feedback from recent events shows increased engagement and strong interest in Winfield opportunities.
Winfield High School Bleachers
The Board approved a $39,380 bid from Heartland Seating for repairs to the high school bleachers. Improvements include structural reinforcements designed to reduce long-term damage caused by climbing and routine wear.
Board Policy Updates Second Reading
Policy updates were presented for second reading and approval. Revisions included updates to required forms and clarification of procedures. An AI policy is still in development and will be brought forward at a later date following additional review and stakeholder input.
BCBK – Executive Session
The board updated this policy to prohibit recording executive sessions unless the law requires it (e.g., student disciplinary appeals). Signs can be posted to make this clear, and violations may lead to criminal charges.
BG – Membership
Being part of the National School Boards Association (NSBA) is optional. Boards can join NSBA even if our state association (KASB) is not a member.
IHF – Graduation Requirements
Minor wording updates focus on credits needed for graduation. No changes to actual requirements.
IKB – Controversial Issues
Clarifies that teachers should not use controversial topics to express personal opinions in the classroom. Teachable moments are allowed, but personal political views should be avoided.
IKCA – Human Sexuality Education
Policy updated to remove references to AIDS and outdated public notice requirements. Opt-out forms are available; board adoption not required.
IKD / IKDA – Religion in School Activities
Revised to allow parents to opt their children out of activities that conflict with their religious beliefs, in line with recent Supreme Court guidance. Opt-out forms can be used without formal board adoption.
JBCC – Enrollment of Nonresident Students
Updated to allow district staff to pick up nonresident students for transportation after notifying the student’s home district.
JCAC – Interrogation and Investigation
Clarifies when school staff must notify parents during student investigations and reinforces their responsibility to protect student rights when law enforcement is involved.
JDDC – Bullying Plan
The bullying plan form was updated to remove references to gender identity, expression, and sexual orientation, since sex is already covered under current law.
JQI – Adult Students
Clarifies that administration determines placement of adult students (19+) seeking a high school diploma or equivalent.
KM – Visitors to Schools
Updated to allow staff to verify law enforcement credentials without collecting personal information. Off-duty officers do not need to show email, phone, or address, and this ensures security while complying with state law.
Personnel Report
Mr. Bressler presented a personnel update noting 6 new classified staff hires, 8 classified staff resignations, 1 classified transfer, 1 certified resignation, and 8 certified hires. (See BOE minutes online for personnel list)
USD 465 Welcomes New Director of Special Education
The Board of Education is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Zachary Lawrence as the new Director of Special Education for Cowley County. Mr. Lawrence brings extensive experience and a strong commitment to supporting educational opportunities for all students.
Currently serving as an Assistant Director in a special education cooperative, he has held leadership roles at both the district and building levels, including oversight of human resources, legal guidance, and administration of a Day School program. His professional experience reflects a history of increasing responsibilities and proven results, and he comes highly recommended to lead the cooperative’s special education programs with immediate impact.
Financials and Updates
Mr. Bressler presented the financial summary and provided a budget update. District leadership continues to monitor budget performance as audits near completion, with future discussions planned to identify efficiencies and align resources with district priorities.
The January check register was also presented to the Board of Education. Administration reported that the AGH accounting firm has completed the 2023–24 financial books, and the BFR Accounting group will present their audit findings at the February 25th BOE meeting.
Job Fairs and Recruitment
District representatives have attended multiple recruitment fairs using newly developed marketing materials, resulting in increased interest in open positions. Additional recruitment events are planned, with administrators scheduled to attend fairs at Friends University, FHSU, Pittsburg State, Washburn University, Oklahoma State University, Emporia State, and Kansas State University.
Bus Camera Update
Cloud-connected camera systems are now active on several buses. Stop-arm camera technology will be used in partnership with local law enforcement to address illegal passing of school buses and improve student safety.
Technology Department Transportation
The district purchased two used vehicles to support technology staff in transporting equipment and servicing buildings more efficiently while reducing reliance on personal vehicles.
Grants and Donations
The Board received a report on grants and donations received in January 2026. Contributions included:
- Good Day Kansas – Treat the Teacher -Brittni Lockwood – Amazon gift card donation, $250
- Kathy Dauber Memorial – Cowley County Cooperative donation, $250
KESA Review and Update
Superintendent Reiser shared that the district successfully met all criteria during the recent KESA review. District leadership is now planning for the next improvement cycle, including the potential adoption of new formative assessment tools aligned to state standards. Additionally, the district is pursuing the IAS assessment platform, which provides proficiency screeners to support accountability in standards alignment, At-Risk validation, and KESA student measurement accreditation.
Capturing Kids Hearts Update
Superintendent Reiser shared that the district’s implementation of Capturing Kids’ Hearts continues to strengthen school culture and climate. District-level results show that principals feel more supported, and implementation by school leaders is steadily increasing, with ongoing efforts to expand engagement among teachers.
She thanked the Board of Education for their continued support of the program, noting that the board’s investment in Capturing Kids’ Hearts is having a positive, measurable impact on both student and staff experiences across the district.
After School Programs
Superintendent Reiser shared that Whittier, Irving, and Country View Elementary schools have launched targeted after-school programs for identified students. Funded through at-risk resources, these programs focus on academic support and will run through early spring.
Consent Agenda
Board members approved the following items.
A. Personnel
B. Approval of January, 2026 BOE Minutes
C. Approval of Grants / Donations
D. Acceptance of Bills and Financial Reports
E. Superintendent Contract
Upcoming Events
- No School — Parent Teacher Conferences — February 12, 2026
- No School — Exchange Day for Conferences — February 13, 2026
- No School — President’s Day — February 16, 2026
- Winfield Chamber Lunch Bites – State of USD 465 – February 19, 2026
- No School — Professional Development — February 23, 2026
- BOE Meeting: The next BOE meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, February 25, 2026 at 12:00 PM at Winfield Middle School.