Recognitions, repairs and planning at the May Board of Education meeting

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) -- The St. Joseph School District Board of Education was packed with agenda items at the May 27 meeting, which started at 5:30 p.m.

The meeting began with a full crowd due to the recognition of several key accomplishments by individuals and teams. Robidoux Middle School's Cannon Holthaus was recognized for winning first place in the FBLA Video Game competition. Annalise Cline was recognized for winning first place in First Aid and CPR at Hillyard Technical Center.

Central High School's state music contest winners and Benton High School's Ridge Stagner, the runner-up for Class 4 state tennis, were acknowledged and congratulated.

The Class 6 State Champion Central High School Scholar Bowl Team was also recognized during the meeting.

Pay modifications and progress on the district's professional development and career ladder programs were discussed, and both the school superintendent and the assistant superintendent gave reports that discussed financial and academic matters for the district. A highlight of these presentations included the report that the district achieved just over 83% in attendance this past school year, a post-COVID high. Their goal continues to be 90% or higher.

New board member Tom Richmond became an official member of the board, bringing the board's total membership back up to seven, although board member Whitney Lanning was not present at the meeting.

Academic highlights also included approval of a K-6 English Language Arts Core Resource curriculum, presented by Curriculum and Instruction Director Stacia Studer. The board approved plans for building improvements to HVAC systems, sidewalks and parking areas, thanks in part to state and federal grants.
The board held an executive meeting after the public board meeting and will meet next for a work session on June 9, at 5:30 p.m.