Colby BOE Reviews Budget, Enrollment, and Facility Concerns at Packed September Meeting
September 15, 2025
The Colby Public Schools Board of Education met Monday, September 15, before a nearly full house, with new teachers, students seeking early graduation, and two candidates for the upcoming board election in attendance. With extra chairs nearly exhausted, the evening’s meeting reflected strong community interest in district issues ranging from enrollment and facilities to teacher contracts and the 2025-26 budget.
After approving the consent agenda, the board opened the floor for public comment. Longtime community member Judy Shull voiced concerns about the potential relocation of Dennen Field to the high school campus. She cautioned that moving the stadium into a residential area could create safety issues, from crowded parking and ambulance access to the risk of unwanted public access to the high school during events. Shull also stressed the need for handicap-accessible restrooms, whether the facility is relocated or renovated.
Board members and administrators then introduced newly hired staff across all buildings, welcoming teachers in music, ESOL, math, and other roles, along with new student advocates.
Building reports highlighted steady enrollment at the middle school (296 students) and a slight dip at the grade school (from 371 to 337). High school enrollment stands at 280, with 14 students attending Fort Hays Tech and more earning dual credits on campus. Principal Matt Sims reported that Colby High inducted 25 new National Honor Society members this fall, while the middle school celebrated its first pep rally in years, supported by new air conditioning in the auditorium.
Heather Stapp the Director Teaching and Learning outlined progress on grant writing, including a successful award to upgrade auditorium lighting and pending applications for sound system improvements and the Play 315 playground initiative. Superintendent Katina Brenn praised a student-produced video about a drip irrigation project at the ag department, highlighting local innovation in water conservation. She also noted the district is evaluating additional school safety measures and fine-tuning its new food service partnership, which has received positive reviews from students and families.
The board ratified the negotiated teacher dress code agreement, which teachers had already approved. Members also approved the 2025-26 budget, which will be based on last year’s audited enrollment of 921 students despite a current headcount of 907, thanks to state funding rules. Out-of-district trip requests were granted with the exception of the spirit squad, which will not travel this year due to the team’s size and experience level. Board member Brandi Wark, expressed concern that this decision could discourage future participation.
The board also approved several early graduation requests, disposal of unused school property, employment recommendations, and supplemental coaching contracts. In a show of support for district employees, board members unanimously adopted a longevity pay increase for classified staff, providing an additional financial incentive for five- and ten-year service milestones.
The meeting closed with announcements of upcoming events, including the October 20 session, where Kansas Association of School Boards (KASB) officials will present results from the community survey on the future of Dennen Field.