Regular Open Meeting Brief – March 20, 2025
The entire meeting agenda can be viewed at: March 20, 2025 BOE Meeting
Program Evaluations
The Board was presented with program evaluations for Title I Early Childhood and Parents As Teachers (PAT). The goal of the early childhood program is to provide early intervention for educationally at-risk students. During the 2023-24 school year, the district served 32 pre-kindergarten students with full day programming focused on language and literacy development, early numeracy, and social-emotional development. PAT served 213 students up to 5 years of age during the 2023-24 school year. Their goal is to increase kindergarten readiness through early learning experiences. Over 94% of parents surveyed strongly agree they were satisfied with the PAT program.
Seal of Biliteracy
The Board approved the implementation of the Seal of Biliteracy which is an award given by a school district to recognize high school graduates who have attained proficiency in English and one or more additional languages. The purpose of the Seal is to acknowledge and celebrate the value of multilingualism, encourage the study of world languages, and validate the hard work of students who achieve biliteracy. Earning this distinction provides students with a valuable credential for college admissions, scholarship opportunities, and future employment in a global workforce.
Estimated Tax Levy
Districts are required to annually project estimated, non-binding tax levy rates to be submitted to the County Clerk in April. The Board approved an estimated tax levy rate of $4.3897 per $100 Assessed Valuation for General and Teacher (Combined) Operating funds, and $1.3666 for the Debit Service fund, for a total estimated levy rate of $5.7563 for 2025. This reflects a slight increase of $0.0943 over 2024. Official tax levy rates are set annually in the fall after a public tax hearing.
Strategic Plan Review
Administration reviewed progress toward goals in the Focus Areas of Success Ready Students, Workplace Excellence, Operational Readiness and Climate & Culture. The Missouri School Improvement Program (MSIP) recommends schools districts develop an ongoing, written strategic plan which directs the overall improvement of its educational programs and services. The strategic plan includes goals, objectives and action steps which direct the improvement efforts of the district for a 3-year period. The Board of Education approved the current District Strategic Plan for 2024-2027 in June 20, 2024.