Colby USD 315 School Board Honors Retirees, Reviews Facility Needs, and Approves Budget Measures

by Derek White

The Colby USD 315 Board of Education gathered on May 19 for its regular monthly meeting, covering a range of key issues including retiree recognition, budget approvals, summer planning, and personnel moves.

Honoring Longtime Retirees

In a heartfelt special presentation, the board recognized several district staff members retiring after years of dedicated service:

• Robin Binder (Food Service) – 31 years

• Tawnia Taylor (2nd Grade Teacher) – 28 years

• Roni Dietz (CMS PE Teacher) – 26 years

• Robert “Bob” Weber (Bus Driver) – 21 years

Although not all were able to attend, the board expressed its gratitude for their lasting contributions to the district community.

Budget and Facility Projects

Board members approved the motion to republish the 2024–25 district budget. A public hearing on the amendment will precede the June 23 meeting. Additionally, the board approved a low bid for plaster work on the Historic Auditorium Project, marking a continued investment in facility upgrades.

Technology infrastructure also received support through the E-Rate program, which will fund internet services, firewall replacement, and licensing for wireless access points for the 2025–26 fiscal year.

Fees and Assessments for Next School Year

The board set student-related fees for the 2025–26 school year:

• Textbook & Student Materials Fee: $115 per student

• Activity Fee: $50 per sport, capped at $150 per student

• Preschool Program Fee: $138/month full pay, $69/month reduced

Building needs assessments for Colby Grade School, Middle School, and High School were also approved, outlining current conditions and future facility priorities.

Personnel Updates and Board Appointments

The board accepted several resignations, including Superintendent Katina Brenn, effective June 30, 2026, and bus driver Bob Weber.

New hires include:

• Ashley Norton, CHS Math Teacher

• Jennifer Evans, Teaching and Learning Secretary

• Shelby Mosier, appointed as Board Clerk starting July 1

• Eastyn Niermeier, transferred to Little Eagles Paraprofessional

  
  

Supplemental contracts were approved for coaching and activity sponsors across several sports and grade levels.

Student Activities and Summer Planning

The board reviewed and approved a slate of out-of-district student trips and fundraisers scheduled from June to October 2025, ensuring ongoing engagement through summer and fall programs.

Administrative and Academic Reports

Reports were delivered by building principals, Athletic/Activities Director, Director of Teaching and Learning Dr. Stephanie McNemar, and Business Director Kaylin Wiens. Updates included curriculum development, student performance highlights, and financial summaries.

The next USD 315 board meeting is set for June 23, 2025, with a public hearing on the budget amendment beginning at 6:50 p.m.