USD 294 Oberlin Board of Education Recap – February 10, 2025: Staffing Shifts, Summer Planning, and Grant Opportunities

by Derek White

The USD 294 Board of Education met on February 10 for its regular monthly meeting, tackling a range of topics from personnel updates and grant applications to summer staffing and school improvement plans. President Zach May called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m., with six board members present and one attending via phone.

Personnel Updates and Administrative Shifts

The board approved the reinstatement of Jess Allen as Junior High Track Assistant Coach and officially welcomed Paul Prewo as the new High School Principal. Two resignations were accepted: Brandon Hardwick, who served in multiple coaching and teaching roles, and Tamera Rice, Business/Spanish teacher. The board thanked them for their contributions to the district.

Strategic and Virtual Planning

Superintendent Dr. Joel Applegate initiated a discussion on developing a strategic plan to guide the district’s growth and future goals. He also presented preliminary information about adding a virtual school program as an option for students, reflecting an effort to expand educational access.

Funding & Grants: Capital, Technology, and Education

The board approved a new Capital Outlay Resolution set at 8 mills, aligning funding with upcoming facility needs. Several grant opportunities were discussed and approved, including:

• A Grow Grant to upgrade the district’s lighting systems to energy-efficient LEDs.

• A Driver Education Grant via Eisenhower Transportation to enhance the district's driver's ed program.

Student Opportunities

A request for an Art Department field trip to Denver was approved, offering students a hands-on cultural and educational experience outside the classroom.

Summer Staffing and Facility Needs

Board members approved advertising for two indoor and two outdoor summer help positions to assist with maintenance and operational needs during the break. They also reviewed but tabled a proposal to purchase a new Trans Van and decided to revisit it with additional information at a future meeting.

Financial and Policy Decisions

The board approved:

• January meeting minutes and bills for payment

• A financial report and fund expenditure review

• New and revised KASB policy updates

They also tabled participation in the Hansen Match Endowment Fund pending further details.

Executive Session

An executive session was held to discuss a student issue under the Kansas Open Meetings Act (KOMA). No action was taken following the closed session.

Information & Upcoming Topics

Highlights from building principals included updates on student activities and school events. Superintendent Applegate also discussed AED machine needs for campus safety. Upcoming board meetings will continue exploring the Hansen Endowment, asset inventory services, and the Trans Van purchase.

The meeting adjourned at 9:27 p.m. after a productive evening focused on academic growth, financial planning, and community support. The next session will revisit several tabled topics and continue shaping the district’s long-term vision.