Oakley USD 274 Board of Education Highlights Student Success, Staffing Moves, and Community Engagement

by Derek White

The USD 274 Board of Education convened for its regular meeting on April 14, 2025, with a packed agenda that showcased student accomplishments, key personnel updates, and ongoing efforts to enhance the educational experience across the district.

Student Recognition and Academic Updates

The evening spotlighted a number of student-centered achievements and initiatives. High School Principal Kristy Walker reported that five seniors were selected to test for the prestigious Dane G. Hansen Scholarship, with three students successfully earning the award, a significant honor that recognizes academic excellence, leadership, and community involvement. Additionally, 96 students attended the high school prom, demonstrating strong student engagement.

Middle School Principal Craig Wamsley highlighted the success of the 7th grade Scholar’s Bowl team, which earned 3rd place at the league level—a notable academic achievement. He also shared that 50 students are participating in track and field this spring, with two meets already completed. Preparations are underway for the upcoming 8th grade FFA ceremony and several spring field trips.

Elementary Principal Tori Goetz reported a strong turnout and successful outcomes from the recent Early Childhood Screening, where 56 children ages birth to five were evaluated. She also noted that the elementary book fair was a resounding success thanks to the support of parents and the community. Proceeds will be used to purchase curriculum-related books. The school anticipates welcoming 33 students at Kindergarten Visitation Day on April 25. Goetz thanked the community for its continued involvement and support.

Athletic Achievements and Honors

Athletic Director Aaron Dardis praised the continued dedication of student-athletes and shared exciting individual honors. Wrestlers Carter Krier and Atavia Cain were invited to participate in the prestigious Kansas Shrine Duals, recognizing their excellence in the sport. In basketball, Mason Jackson, Jade Beckman, Chesney Marshall, and Alexa Weiser received all-league honors, reflecting their standout performances during the winter season.

Participation in spring sports remains strong, with 24 boys and 24 girls out for track, and nine boys on the golf team. The district will host its home high school track meet on April 25, giving students the chance to shine in front of the home crowd.

Calendar Development and Planning

Discussion of the proposed 2025-26 district calendar focused on ensuring consistency across K-12 scheduling, particularly regarding early dismissal days for teacher collaboration. While staff supported a draft calendar, the board opted to table final approval to allow further feedback and refinement with the calendar committee.

Board President Kerri Scheetz shared insights from a recent education conference panel focused on families in poverty. She emphasized how simple gestures like smiling, making eye contact, and offering childcare and food at events can dramatically increase parent involvement. Her remarks were well-received by the many teachers in attendance.

Staff Updates and New Hires

The board approved several key hires for the upcoming school year:

• Lane Patmon as Athletic Director and Transportation Director

• Wendy Beckman as Food Service Director

• Melissa Meier as 7th–12th Grade Counselor

• Andelyn Johnson as 4th Grade Teacher

Resignations were accepted from Kylie Rahmeier, Ag Teacher, and Whitney Dennis from the Buddy Program.

Facility and Finance Actions

The board approved the purchase of two buses to upgrade the district’s transportation fleet: a 2024 Chevrolet 14-passenger bus for $106,300 and a used 2017 Chevrolet bus for $49,900. Final payment terms will be determined later.

Open enrollment capacities for the 2025-26 school year were formally approved, setting the maximum number of out-of-district students the district can accept per grade.

Donations and Community Support

Several generous donations were acknowledged and approved, including:

• $880.31 from Midwest Energy to support Amy Patmon’s 2nd grade classroom

• $600 from the Knights of Columbus for Special Education

• $1,250 from the Kansas FFA Foundation for Ag Teacher Kylie Rahmeier to attend the CASE Principles of Ag Science course

• Additional funds from Mittens and the Logan County Diversion Fund to support teacher and staff appreciation initiatives

Executive Sessions and Coaching Evaluations

Multiple executive sessions were held to discuss coaching personnel. No action was taken during these sessions, and coaching evaluations and recommendations were tabled until the May meeting.

The meeting adjourned at 7:11 p.m., wrapping up a productive evening that celebrated student achievement, supported faculty and staff, and advanced long-term planning for the district’s continued success.