USD 315 Board of Education Recap – July 21, 2025

The USD 315 Board of Education held its regular monthly meeting on Monday, July 21, where members addressed a wide range of topics including funding concerns, facility updates, district policy revisions, and preparations for a new superintendent search.

District administrators briefed the board on ongoing uncertainties surrounding federal education funding. Several key programs, including Title I, ESL, Migrant, and professional development grants, remain frozen due to federal-level audits. Although 21st Century after-school program funds were recently released, Superintendent Katina Brenn and Business Manager Kaylin Wiens said a clearer picture of available funding should emerge by the August meeting. A full review of cuts and recommendations for adjustments will be presented at that time.

The board also reviewed year-end fund transfers. Among the largest were to Special Education, Food Service, and to other programs in excess of $500,000 all from the General Fund or LOB. Wiens noted that these programs generate limited revenue on their own, making the transfers necessary to support operations, and typical each year.

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Outstanding student fee balances across the district total just over $62,000, including approximately $17,000 in unpaid lunch fees. The district uses the Kansas Setoff Program for collections and makes multiple attempts to contact families before sending accounts for recovery.

Construction of the new Ag facility continues to progress, with drywall, metalwork, polished concrete floors, and lab station installation all underway. Trades including electrical, HVAC, and plumbing are currently on-site.

For the preschool playground, the district has completed demolition of old tetherball areas and plans to install a new play structure in mid-August. The new setup includes ADA-accessible picnic tables and a relocated shade structure, funded through Head Start.

The board approved a repair bid from Pro Track and Tennis to patch the southern half of the high school track. This option provides an estimated 3–5 years of extended use. Trustees discussed the possibility of cost-sharing with Colby Community College, which uses the track regularly for athletic practices.

Superintendent Brenn outlined changes to the Kansas Open Records Act (KORA) and Kansas Open Meetings Act (KOMA). Updates include revised public records request procedures and clarification that board-appointed subcommittees must follow open meeting protocols. A new request form and process were adopted to comply with the updated laws.

The board approved participation in the state’s Youth Teacher Apprenticeship Program. Through this initiative, high school students enrolled in the education pathway can earn $7.50 per hour while interning in classrooms. A one-time state grant will cover startup costs, and students may also qualify for tuition reimbursement.

The board agreed to contract with the Kansas Association of School Boards (KASB) to lead the district’s search for a new superintendent. A proposed timeline was reviewed, with community input sessions and candidate interviews scheduled for this fall. Trustees supported early action to complete the hiring process. • Approved all annual financial designations and waivers for the 2025–26 school year. • Reappointed the Colby Free Press as the district’s official newspaper. • Accepted the resignations • Approved disposal of outdated district vehicles. • Reviewed upcoming community survey plans related to long-term facility projects. • Approved fundraisers for the CHS Boys Golf team and Play 315 Playground Committee.

The next board meeting is scheduled for August 18, when additional financial details and community engagement efforts will be further discussed.