Rawlins County Board Approves $27.3M School Renovation Project and Contract Extensions

April 2 Special Meeting

ATWOOD, Kan.

In a significant step forward for the future of local education, the Rawlins County USD 105 Board of Education approved a nearly $27.35 million school addition and renovation plan during a special board meeting held Wednesday evening at the USD 105 Elementary Library.

With all seven board members present and a host of district staff, community members, and construction partners in attendance, the board tackled a focused agenda centered on long-term facilities planning and key personnel decisions.

Major School Renovation Project Moves Forward

Representatives from SPT Architecture and McCown-Gordon Construction presented the latest updates on the district’s rebuilding process. After discussion, the board voted 6-0—with one abstention—to approve Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP) #3, totaling $27,349,794. This figure locks in the cost for the proposed school additions and renovations, a milestone in Rawlins County’s capital improvement efforts.

The board also approved the use of UES for third-party monitoring services, which will oversee construction materials and quality control throughout the project’s duration.

Staff Transitions and Leadership Renewals

Following a brief recess and multiple executive sessions, the board accepted several personnel resignations:

• Phoenix Davidovich, 7–9 English Language Arts Teacher

• Jenny Popp, SADD Sponsor

• Kelly Dewey, High School Volleyball Coach

• Jill Niermeier, High School Student Council Representative

  
  

In addition, the board unanimously approved contract extensions through the 2026–2027 school year for Principals Lacy Sramek and Jeff Samson, as well as Superintendent Eric Stoddard.

Other Business and Next Steps

While a proposed vehicle purchase from Tubbs and Sons for $96,749.80 was discussed, the board opted to table the decision until a future meeting. The session also included a series of executive evaluations of building administrators and the superintendent, along with discussion of long-term district needs.

The meeting concluded with a unanimous vote to adjourn at 7:51 p.m.

As Rawlins County continues with its major facilities overhaul and prepares for leadership continuity, these decisions mark an important chapter in building stability and progress for students, staff, and the broader community.