Board Members
President Kinnie Ledford called the meeting to order at 12:00 p.m. Board members Greg Follmer, Sarah Morton, Ed Trimmer, Jalaine Richardson, Roy Andreas, and Kinnie Ledford were present. Andrea Ball was absent.
USD 465 Mission Statement
Board of Education members opened the meeting with the district mission statement: 'Developing responsible citizens for the future.'
Board Communication
The Board received an update that the special education cooperative is planning a survey of board members, staff, and community members regarding needs and understanding of the cooperative. Board President Kinnie Ledford also reviewed Board protocol for personnel concerns, reminding members to listen when contacted by patrons or employees, redirect concerns through the appropriate district channels, and avoid directly addressing personnel matters with employees.
Jantz Stadium Lease Agreement
The Board considered the Third Addendum to the Stadium Lease and Operation Agreement with Southwestern College. The current agreement is extended for nine months, from October 1, 2026 through June 30, 2027, while the district and Southwestern College continue discussions regarding a future agreement. The extension provides time for both parties and the Stadium Use Committee to work through scheduling, facility use, and athletic program needs.
During discussion, Board members considered the long-term use of Jantz Stadium, practice and game scheduling, possible use of other community fields, and the feasibility and cost of a district-owned athletic facility. The Board emphasized the importance of maintaining a positive working relationship with Southwestern College while continuing to evaluate options that best serve USD 465 students and the community. The Third Addendum was approved 6-0.
Lowell Elementary Building Report
Lowell Elementary Principal Janci Ramirez and staff shared a building report centered on student leadership, academic data, attendance, and school culture. Lowell continues its focus on growing leaders, with students and staff taking on expanded leadership roles and the school strengthening family engagement through PTO and family events.
Fifth-grade CKH student ambassadors introduced themselves and described their role in helping lead assemblies and student-centered activities. Lowell also expanded fifth-grade leadership jobs. Thirty five students applied for 20 different job areas, with students completing applications and interviews and practicing professional skills such as introductions, communication, thank-you notes, accountability, and organization.
Staff reviewed fall FastBridge data and emphasized the importance of using screening results to guide instruction and intervention. Lowell reported strong retention of learning from spring to fall. For example, 81% of last year's first graders ended the year at low risk in reading and 73% of those students began second grade at low risk. Staff described targeted class-wide and small-group intervention based on student needs.
The school also reviewed state assessment results. Lowell exceeded both state and district averages in ELA for the current fourth, fifth, and sixth grade cohorts, and 60% of third graders, 51% of fourth graders, and 56% of fifth graders scored in Levels 3 and 4. Math results showed areas of strength as well as areas for continued growth, particularly in fifth grade. Science was also identified as an area for intentional focus, with staff increasing explicit instruction, hands-on learning, and attention to standards.
Lowell shared a new positive attendance initiative built around a 90% goal for both students and staff. The Staff vs. Students challenge will track attendance daily and recognize weekly and monthly progress, with the larger goal of strengthening student connection, belonging, and the understanding that every day at school matters.
Consent Agenda
The Board approved the consent agenda, including donations and personnel items, 6-0. Upcoming Dates
Parent-Teacher Conferences are September 30 and October 1. There is no school Friday, October 2, which is the exchange day for Parent-Teacher Conferences. Monday, October 5 is a Professional Development Day with no school for students. The next regular Board of Education meeting is Monday, October 12 at 5:30 p.m. at the District Office.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 1:13 p.m.