Board Members: Kinnie Ledford, president; Jalaine Richardson, vice-president; Sarah Morton; Andrea Ball; Roy Andreas; Gregg Follmer (Ed Trimmer absent)
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.
• Citizen Open Forum : A community member addressed the Board regarding pedestrian and traffic safety concerns near school campuses, particularly during after-school hours, including sidewalks, traffic flow, and student safety.
• Board Member Comments: Board members discussed student safety and Safe Routes to School, including both short-term and long-term solutions in partnership with the city.
Recognitions
The Board of Education recognized Winfield High School for earning All-Star Status. Winfield High School was one of 219 high schools honored for its commitment to postsecondary success. Students receive strong support in completing college and career applications, accessing financial aid, and exploring all pathways after graduation. This recognition highlights a schoolwide commitment to preparing every student for their future. Congratulations were extended to Winfield High School on this outstanding achievement.
Presentation – Out of State Band Trip
Taton Bennet, WHS Band instructor, presented a proposed out of state trip to Tulsa, Oklahoma, including a symphony performance and educational experiences for students.
Arts and Humanities Partnership
Board Member Jalaine Richardson addressed the Board regarding the Arts and Humanities Partnership, exploring opportunities to establish or renew collaboration with USD 465. Discussion included increasing student awareness, participation, and access to programming and scholarships.
School Resource Officer (SRO) Position Funding and Partnership Renewal
The Board reviewed a proposal from administration, presented by Chief DeLong and Superintendent Reiser, to continue the partnership with the Winfield Police Department to maintain an additional School Resource Officer (SRO) position following the expiration of grant funding. The Board approved continuation of the second SRO position.
WELC 2026-27 Preschool Program, Staffing, and Staff Handbook Approval
Ashley Schneider, principal of the Winfield Early Learning Center (WELC), presented an update on preschool programming for the 2026–27 school year, including enrollment trends and a staff 3-year-old preschool initiative designed to support recruitment and retention. She outlined proposed additions, including an all-day 3-year-old classroom and a full-time Physical Education teacher to ensure certified instruction and provide planning time for staff. The Board reviewed the proposed program, staffing adjustments, and handbook updates and approved the recommendations.
Parents as Teachers (PAT) Program Expansion and Staffing Proposal
The district secured additional MIECHV funding to expand the Parents as Teachers (PAT) program, increasing the number of family/child spots. Susan Rush presented a proposal to add an additional part-time parent educator to support the expanded services. The Board approved the program expansion and additional staffing to better meet the needs of families.
K–8 Math Curriculum Adoption Presentation
The Board approved adoption of the i-Ready Math curriculum following a multi-year review and pilot process and expressed appreciation to the committee for their work.
Transportation Report
Cameron Groom, Transportation Director, provided an overview of department operations, including fleet size, staffing, daily routes, and student transportation numbers. The report also outlined future goals related to additional staffing, additional vehicle needs, and improved operational efficiency.
Summer Hours
The Board approved summer work hours of Monday–Thursday, 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., beginning May 18 through July 27.
KASB Membership Renewal
The administration presented the annual renewal of the Kansas Association of School Boards (KASB) membership, which provides policy services, legal guidance, advocacy, and professional development for the district and Board of Education. The Board approved renewal of KASB membership and legal services, ensuring continued access to these resources in support of effective governance and district operations.
Technology and Copier Replacement Bid Authorization
The administration requested approval to solicit bids for the replacement of district computers, Chromebooks, and copiers to ensure updated, reliable equipment for instructional and operational needs. The Board approved authorization to proceed with the bid process.
Local Education Agency (LEA) Application for IDEA Part B Funds
The Board approved submission of the annual Local Education Agency (LEA) application for IDEA Part B funds, which provides federal support for special education services for students ages 3–21.
Assistant Superintendent Report
Assistant Superintendent Phil Bressler provided the Board with a bond and financial summary update for April, addressed Board questions, and presented the personnel report. (see personnel report. (See BOE minutes online for personnel list.)
Summer Construction
Administration provided an update on upcoming summer construction projects. Major work will focus on the high school, including roofing and parking lot improvements. Bids have been received for the high school parking lot, with contract approval expected at a future meeting. Additional projects include tennis court work, playground paving at Irving and Whittier, and various facility maintenance efforts. Ongoing and future projects will be supported through bond proceeds and capital outlay funds.
Grants and Donations
The Board acknowledged a donation from Cowley County Community Health Center of 13 Chromebooks to Winfield High School, valued at $2,990.
USD 465 Blue Ribbon Taskforce
The Board reviewed data on student device usage presented by the Blue Ribbon Task Force, including input from Board Member Jalaine Richardson. Findings indicated high levels of Chromebook use at the secondary level, raising concerns about screen time and student behavior. The district will continue reviewing policies, providing staff training, and developing guidelines to support responsible technology use.
Safe Routes to School
Administration emphasized the importance of addressing student safety concerns related to pedestrian access and traffic, and will continue working collaboratively with community partners to explore both immediate and long-term solutions.
Enrollment Projections
The Board reviewed long-term enrollment projections indicating a gradual decline over the next 10 years. This data will be used to inform future planning and resource allocation. The USD 465 Enrollment Estimates for 2026–2035 will be posted on the district website.
Summer School
Administration shared the USD 465 Summer School Plan for June 1–25, 2026, focused on targeted academic intervention in ELA and Math, credit recovery at the high school, and prevention of summer learning loss. The program will serve selected students based on academic data, with small-group instruction, social-emotional supports, and enrichment opportunities.
Consent Agenda
Board members approved the following items.
A. Personnel
B. Approval of March, 2026 BOE Minutes
C. Approval of Grants / Donations
D. Acceptance of Bills and Financial Reports
E. Administrator Contracts
F. WHS Band Boosters Out-of-State Trip
Upcoming Events
• BOE Meeting: The next BOE meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, April 29th, 2026 at 12:00 PM at Irving Elementary.
• May 7th – Retirement Reception, 6:30p.m. – Winfield High School
• May 11th – BOE meeting, 5:30
• May 14th – Last Day of School
• May 15th – Staff Breakfast
• May 17th – WHS Graduation