Schuyler R-1 Board Approves 2025-26 Instructional Plans, Safety Measures and Facilities Discussion
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QUEEN CITY, Mo. — The Schuyler R-1 Board of Education met in regular session Sept. 17, unanimously approving a comprehensive slate of academic, operational and safety-related plans for the 2025-2026 school year, while also addressing facility upgrades and celebrating student engagement initiatives.
The meeting, called to order by Board President Andy Akers at 6 p.m., began with the approval of the agenda, previous meeting minutes and monthly bills. Director of Finance Tiffany Newland presented the August financial report, noting revenue of $523,704.35 and expenses totaling $448,798.95.
Comprehensive Planning Approved
Under old business, the board adopted key components of the Comprehensive School Improvement Plan (CSIP), designed to guide district priorities in instruction and support services. All motions passed with unanimous 7-0 votes.
The board approved the 2025- 2026 Professional Development Plan, Technology Plan, District Curriculum Plan, Assessment Plan, Emergency Operations Plan, Literacy Plan and Title I Plan. Each is aimed at strengthening educational outcomes and operational preparedness across the district.
Board members also approved a revised employee manual, reflecting updates in personnel policy and expectations.
Board Governance Updates and Personnel Actions
As part of new business, the board approved Policy G-250-P, outlining updated board member qualifications. A revised Board Manual was also approved. The board delayed action on substitute teacher approvals until executive session.
Marta Aeschliman moved to approve Garrett (Bob) Hamilton as a student worker; the motion passed unanimously. The board also authorized the purchase of one new and one used golf cart, not to exceed $13,000, to support district activities and transportation needs.
The next regular meeting is tentatively scheduled for Oct. 15 at 6 p.m.
Enrollment Up, Attendance Strong
Elementary Principal Katie Wayman reported enrollment of 356 students in grades PK-6 for August, up from 330 a year prior. Average attendance stood at 96.19%. She highlighted upcoming events including:
Sept. 19: Grandparents’ Day and Homecoming Assembly
Sept. 23: Start of after-school tutoring
Oct. 2: National Custodian Day
Oct. 15: End of the first quarter
Oct. 23 and 28: Parent-teacher conferences
Multiple fall and winter music programs for grades K-6
Wayman also noted the launch of “School Families,” a new monthly team-building initiative where students are grouped with peers and staff to foster school spirit. RTI (Response to Intervention) services began Sept. 2.
High School Engaged in Career and Leadership Activities
High School Principal Ed Koser reported 254 students enrolled in grades 7-12, with a strong August attendance rate of 97.58%. Student participation in regional career and leadership events was emphasized:
Sept. 17: FBLA trip to St. Louis for Cardinals Career Day
Sept. 16-17: College and career fairs for juniors and seniors
Sept. 16: Hosted regional FFA event with approximately 300 students
Sept. 22: Hosting FCCLA Region 3 event
Sept. 23: Hosting Area III Trap Shoot
Other noted dates included Interagency meetings and senior nights for varsity sports and activities.
Safety, Facilities and Financial Planning Discussed
Superintendent Shawn Corbett reported the district’s first School/Community Safety Team meeting took place Sept. 16, with participation from area fire departments, EMS, law enforcement and school staff. The initiative aims to improve coordination and readiness around emergency operations planning.
Corbett and Assistant Superintendent Kyle Windy toured a bus barn in Palmyra with energy service provider Veregy, as the district considers building a similar facility on-site. Financing options, including a 15- to 20-year lease-purchase agreement, are under review.
Additionally, Corbett noted the school track is reaching the end of its service life, with a resurfacing bid estimated at $187,000. He confirmed that all new teacher furniture had arrived, except for some chairs still on order.
Athletics Update
Athletic Director Laci Tallman reported that fall sports are progressing smoothly. She provided dates and locations for district competitions:
Cross Country: Van-Far High School
Golf: Trenton, hosted at Greenhills Golf Course
Softball: LaPlata
A junior high fall sports parent meeting is scheduled for Oct. 9 at 6 p.m.
Executive Session and Personnel Approvals
The board entered executive session at 6:22 p.m. to discuss personnel and student matters. Upon returning to open session at 8:09 p.m., the board approved four substitute teachers: Thomas Stuart, Lilyan March, Kara Buckallew and Gracie Jones. The meeting adjourned at 8:13 p.m.
