Board Brief

Board Briefs are informal reports from the regular meetings of the USD 495 Board of Education and intended as a communications service for district staff and patrons.

These are not the official minutes.

Preschool students from Larned Elementary School started the meeting by leading the Pledge of Allegiance. Thank you to the Pre-K teachers for helping lead their students.

All consent agenda items were approved.

Board Member Highlight: Brent Hemken presented this month's board highlights. He commended the final band and vocal concert for LHS, noting Mr. Lyman’s thoughtful awards presentation and the recognition he received from the senior class. Brent applauded Mr. Lyman for growing the band program, which saw 9 of 10 solo performances earn Division I ratings at competition. He stated that Mr Lyman will be missed next year in his retirement from the district. Brent also recognized the boys tennis team for qualifying several athletes for state competition, The #1 doubles team of Tristan Thompson and Troy Hemken and the #2 doubles team of Brayden Smith and Ryan Hill. Brent commended Coach Mark Lessard for the team’s development and success. The tennis team was able to have a full varsity and junior varsity team this year. Additionally, Brent highlighted the district’s expanding internship programs. He shared that JAG students, along with other high school students, participated in the internship opportunities and had gained valuable experience and knowledge. Brent stated that this program had generated several applications from students for full time employment. This program is making connections within the community.

Staff of the Month: "I would like to nominate the night custodial crew at LHS! They worked swiftly and methodically to get all the tables set up and taken down for freshman orientation. I appreciate all their hard work and help to make freshman orientation a successful night!" They often times work behind the scenes, but we could not be successful without them. Thank you to the USD 495 custodians!

Staff additions were as follows: Kiley Myers - Assistant Principal/LES (2026-27 School Year)

Continuation of Staffing for all classified staff that have not submitted a resignation or retirement for the 2026-2027 school term was approved.

Cell Phone and Social Media Policy: Superintendent Wachs and the Board discussed implementation of the new state-mandated cell phone “bell-to-bell” restriction and reviewed a draft policy. The Board discussed potential use of locking pouches, associated costs, and possible adjustments to student fees. Procedures and policy details are still being finalized, with adoption required by July. The Board also reviewed updated social media and communication guidance developed in coordination with KASB. A draft policy will be presented for approval at the June meeting. Beginning June 1, district-approved communication platforms will be required for extracurricular activities and coaching staff, and prior informal communication practices will be discontinued at the end of the current season. Additional policy updates are anticipated at the June meeting.

Student Handbooks: The Student Handbooks were introduced for Board Member review to be voted on at the June board meeting.

Building Needs Assessment: District administration reviewed the Building Needs Assessment information for each school building. The board has received presentations throughout the year based on discussions held by site councils and district leadership councils, and the presented infographics combined information from all three buildings into one report. Administration explained that state law requires the district to identify barriers to student success, outline budget considerations, and establish the amount of time the board expects students may need to meet identified goals. It was noted that one section of the report remains blank in order to help determine and prioritize specific areas of focus. Bryce provided comparison documents, accountability reports, and additional reference materials for board review prior to action expected in June. Spring assessment scores will also be presented in June to assist the board in evaluating proficiency levels and determining next steps moving forward. Administration noted that the goal is for all students to achieve proficiency at Level 3 or Level 4. Board members were asked to review the materials in preparation for future discussion.

Graduation and 8th Grade Promotion: Larned High School graduation will be held May 16th, 2026 at 2 p.m. and 8th grade promotion will be held May 18th, 2026 at 7 p.m.

Baseball/Softball Cooperative Agreement: The board discussed the current cooperative agreement with LaCrosse for baseball and softball, which expires at the end of this season. LaCrosse has expressed interest in continuing the partnership. Administration explained that KSHSAA requires cooperative agreements to be approved for two years, although both schools may mutually agree to terminate the agreement after one year if necessary. It was noted that the cooperative agreement helps increase participation numbers and allows both varsity and junior varsity competition opportunities. Administration stated that the agreement is especially important for softball participation numbers. Board members discussed the benefits of continuing the agreement for one or both sports and noted that formal agreements cannot be signed until September. Superintendent Wachs encouraged discussion and consideration sooner rather than later for planning purposes.

Student Chromebooks: The board approved to purchase Chromebooks from Trafera Holdings, LLC for the 26-27 school year.

Addition of Larned High School Activity account: It was moved and approved to add the "LHS Content Creators" to the High School Activity account.

Naming of District Facilities: The board approved the request to paint “Marvin Webster Court” on the gym floor, with the understanding that the cost of the project would not exceed the amount donated privately. It was noted that the name would be added as part of the current floor refinishing project and that the topic may be revisited in the future when the floor is refinished again.

2026-27 OPAA Renewal: The 26-27 contract with OPAA was approved.

Superintendent Wachs shared a summary of the annual senior breakfast discussions, which he has hosted for several years. Students reflected on memorable high school experiences, many of which centered around extracurricular activities, reinforcing their importance alongside academics. Seniors shared both excitement and nervousness about graduation and discussed plans that include the military, trade schools, community colleges, and universities. Students also provided feedback on academics and career readiness opportunities, including interest in offering financial literacy earlier, enhancing ACT preparation, and expanding dual-credit opportunities. Approximately 80% of the senior class participated in the discussions.

The USD 495 Board of Education will meet again on Monday, June 8th at 6:00 PM at the District Office.