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.

Thank you to Kindergarten students from Mrs. DeLong and Mrs. Pfortmiller’s classes from Larned Elementary School for leading us in the Pledge of Allegiance!

All consent agenda items were approved.

Staff of the Month: Abby Miller, LHS Teacher, was recognized as our District Staff Member of the Month for demonstrating our core value of support. She has made a big impact in her first year teaching (especially on her Ag students!), and we're proud to celebrate her work.

Board Spotlight: Tyson Steffen presented a brief report during his board spotlight, sharing an idea he mentioned he got from attending the 2024 National School Boards Association Conference.

• Jenny Strickland-Title Aide/LES (2025-26 School Year), Shelbie Vanderweide-Downing-Asst Volleyball/LHS, Luke Steinlage-Asst Volleyball/LMS
• The board approved the continuation of staffing for all certified and classified staff for the 2025-26 school year.

Building Needs Assessment and State Assessment Review: Last month, each building principal presented their individual Building Needs Assessment. This month, Mr. Wachs shared the district-wide needs assessment. Board members will identify the district’s “specifically noted needs” during the June 9 meeting.

2025–26 Student Handbooks: The board approved student handbooks for the upcoming school year. The main change is a more consistent district-wide attendance policy: after six “daily call-in” absences in a semester, a doctor’s note will be required.

Bus Fleet Purchases: Transportation Director Richard Fairchild shared information on two pre-owned buses. The board approved the purchase of a 2021 36-passenger bus from Midwest Bus Sales for $89,882 and a 48-passenger bus from Midwest Transit for $76,844.

Schools for Fair Funding (SFFF): The board approved a one-year membership in Schools for Fair Funding. SFFF provides advocacy and legal representation for public schools on funding issues. This support will be especially important heading into the 2026–27 legislative session.

Opaa! Contract Renewal: The board approved the food service contract with Opaa! for the 2025–26 school year.

Breakfast with Seniors: Last week, Mr. Wachs had the opportunity to meet with our seniors over breakfast. It was a great chance to hear about their experiences, future plans, and reflect on their time in USD 495. We’re proud of each of them and excited to see what’s next.

Upcoming Events:

• Scholarships and Awards: Thursday, May 15 at 9:00 AM – Larned Middle School

• Graduation: Saturday, May 17 at 2:00 PM – Larned Middle School

• 8th Grade Promotion: Monday, May 19 at 7:00 PM – Larned Middle School

The board has scheduled a retreat for Saturday, August 9, 2025.

The USD 495 Board of Education will meet again on Monday, June 9 at 6:00 PM at the District Office.