During the recent Spickard Board of Education meeting on November 25, 2024, the board members tackled several pressing administrative and educational issues that required immediate attention. Among the key decisions made was the approval of bills for November, amounting to $21,491.54. Additionally, Kadi Gamble was sworn in as the new Board Secretary and was added as an authorized user on the district’s bank accounts, ensuring better oversight and financial management.
The board also took time to review the Annual Performance Report, which revealed that the district had scored a total of 75.0%. A breakdown of the report showed a substantial 98.2% in Continuous Improvement, while performance lagged significantly behind with a 28.5% score. Despite these figures, the board opted not to make any immediate decisions or changes to the Comprehensive School Improvement Plan goals, leaving these matters for future discussion.
Upcoming Decisions and Compliance
Another significant point of discussion pertained to health insurance renewal, which the board decided to postpone until their next meeting scheduled for December 16. In the same timeframe, dates were set for board candidate filings, which would occur between December 10 and December 31, with the exclusion of December 23-30. This set outcome signifies three seats opening up for the period. Meanwhile, the district’s compliance was confirmed through the District Assurance Checklist, and a renewal assessment with the Missouri United School Insurance Council (MUSIC) was approved for a sum of $24,094.
A notable update from the Superintendent’s report indicated a slight increase in student enrollment, now totaling 22 students, a positive development for the district. The Superintendent also took the opportunity to recognize individual achievements, underscoring the district’s dedication to supporting both staff and students. Furthermore, the board scheduled a Staff Christmas Appreciation Dinner set to be held on December 18 in appreciation of the hardworking staff members.
Community Engagement and Future Plans
In terms of staffing, the board announced an open kindergarten teaching position for the upcoming 2025-26 school year, aligning with anticipated growth. The success of recent field trips was also highlighted, showcasing the district’s commitment to providing enriching experiences beyond the classroom. Additionally, the board laid out key upcoming events, including a highly anticipated Holiday Concert on December 3, along with various other activities planned throughout December.
Culminating the month’s calendar, Winter Break was scheduled to start on December 23 and extend until January 6, providing a well-deserved pause for students and staff alike. Overall, the meeting underscored the Spickard Board of Education’s commitment to maintaining operational efficiency, boosting educational performance, and actively engaging the community. The sessions revealed a firm focus on compliance, immediate needs, and thoughtful planning to ensure continuous improvement and well-rounded student development within the district.
