St. Francis USD 297 Board Approves Staffing Changes, Summer Projects at May 8 Meeting

by Derek White

The USD 297 Board of Education convened for its regular monthly meeting on May 8 at 7:00 a.m., led by Board President Troy Hilt. Members J.W. Milliken and Clerk Traci Nietzel were absent. Several staff and community members attended, including Aiden Meyer, who presented a proposal to graduate early—later approved by the board.

Superintendent Penka began with two agenda revisions: moving public comment to the start and adding consideration of bids for summer improvement projects. The revised agenda passed unanimously.

In a key decision under new business, the board approved hiring for the upcoming school year, including:

• Kourtney Finley as 3rd Grade Elementary teacher

• Kelli Dankenbring as Journalism teacher

• Scott Dankenbring as Assistant High School Volleyball Coach

• Katie Myers as Head High School Volleyball Coach

• Jacob Church as Junior High Track Coach

  
  

A total of 27 certified and 30 classified contracts were reported as returned for the 2024-2025 school year.

Personnel actions included accepting the resignations of Jerry Carter (cook) and Holly Hingst (junior high track coach). Additionally, the board voted not to retain Ryan Agon in his current coaching roles.

Board members discussed a proposed facility usage policy. The weight room will remain closed to public use from 7:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., while the track will be open to patrons during school hours if not in use by classes.

Superintendent Penka shared legislative updates, noting an increase in base aid per pupil to $5,615 for 2025-2026. He also presented two bids for replacing ceilings and lights in school buildings. The board approved a bid from Howard’s Tri-State Construction LLC by a 4-1 vote.

In academic matters, the board approved continuation of the K-5 Title I program, contingent upon sufficient funding, and reviewed local scholarship recipients ahead of graduation.

Finally, the board supported Aiden Meyer’s request to pursue an accelerated graduation schedule.

The next regular board meeting is scheduled for Thursday, June 12, 2025, at 7:00 a.m.