St. Francis Board of Education Recap – April 10, 2025: Staffing Updates, Student Success, and Forward Planning

by Derek White

The St. Francis Board of Education met for its regular session on April 10, 2025, at 7:00 a.m., with a full agenda that included staff contracts, new hires, student initiatives, and community engagement efforts. The meeting was led by Board President Troy Hilt, with several administrators, staff, and students in attendance.

Student Spotlight & Educational Initiatives

Ethan Graham, a current FHSU Vo-Tech student, addressed the board to request permission to take Government and Chemistry courses through Colby Community College for dual credit. His request was approved later in the meeting, marking another example of how St. Francis Schools are supporting advanced learning opportunities.

Sydney Busse and Jessica Matthies presented a marketing plan for the St. Francis Educational Foundation Fund. With Sydney leading the project and support from Hadleigh Hilt, the board approved the plan, signaling a renewed focus on promoting school fundraising and development.

Approvals & Routine Business

The board approved:

• The March 13 meeting minutes

• Payment of bills totaling $379,283

• March financial reports, including a transfer of $11,343 from the General Fund to the Special Ed Fund

Personnel Moves and Contract Renewals

The board handled several key staffing items:

• Dustin Andrist’s resignation from the board was formally accepted. His vacant seat will remain open until the November election.

• Troy Hilt was approved to join the Scholarship Committee in place of Andrist.

• The board unanimously approved 2025–2026 contract extensions for all certified teachers, classified staff, and coaches.

• Activity bus drivers will now be compensated at $17/hour, including 15 hours per day for overnight trips.

New Hires for 2025–2026 include:

• Dustin Andrist – Transportation Director

• David Morrow – HS Golf Assistant Coach

• Aspen Moritz – Cheer and Dance Coach

• Jesse Baxter – JH Boys’ Basketball Head Coach

• Ted Busse – JH Girls’ Basketball Head Coach

Academic Performance & Calendar Approval

Principal Delbert Schmidt reported an encouraging rise in ACT performance among juniors, with an average score of 17.2, and eight students scoring 20 or higher. The board also approved the 2025–2026 school calendar, keeping the district on track for the coming academic year.

Facility Use & Enrollment News

Board members discussed concerns about the public using school facilities, particularly the track and equipment, during school hours. It was agreed that school equipment should not be used during the day, and signage and a formal policy will be implemented.

Elementary Principal Susan Dinkel reported 26 students registered for pre-kindergarten, and there may be a need for an additional paraprofessional to support classroom needs.

Next Meeting

The next board meeting is scheduled for Thursday, May 8, 2025, at 7:00 a.m.

From academic advancements to personnel planning, the April board meeting reflected a district committed to growth, student support, and operational excellence. Stay tuned for updates on how these actions shape the upcoming school year in St. Francis.