10 takeaways from USD 373 school board meeting
October 13 2025
Newton school board unveils $50 million bond proposal
District leaders frame bond as addressing 'end-of-life' needs
Bond aims to stabilize district's long-term finances
High school overhaul forms centerpiece of proposed bond
Middle and elementary schools slated for key upgrades
Safety and security upgrades a top priority in bond plan
Public information sessions on bond proposal planned
German student exchange program praised as a success
Head Start program reports full enrollment, strong parent engagement
Board accepts over $10,000 in community donations
Newton school board unveils $50 million bond proposal
NEWTON, Kan. - The USD 373 Board of Education reviewed a proposed $50 million bond package aimed at addressing district-wide infrastructure, safety and academic needs. The proposal follows a multi-month facility master planning process involving community members, staff and consultants. If approved by voters, the bond would finance major upgrades to roofing, HVAC systems and security, as well as significant renovations and additions at Newton High School and other district buildings.
District leaders frame bond as addressing 'end-of-life' needs
NEWTON, Kan. - District leaders, including Superintendent Fred Van Ranken, emphasized that many roofs, HVAC systems and other critical components are at the end of their functional lifespans, framing the plan as addressing end-of-life infrastructure rather than deferred maintenance. The administration urged the public to review the materials and learn more as details are refined.
Bond aims to stabilize district's long-term finances
NEWTON, Kan. - According to Superintendent Fred Van Ranken, addressing roofs, HVAC and other large-scale needs through a bond could reduce disruptive emergency repairs that complicate the capital outlay fund, allowing the district to plan predictable maintenance and replacements and keep routine purchases like vehicles on schedule.
High school overhaul forms centerpiece of proposed bond
NEWTON, Kan. - Newton High School would receive the largest share of funding, with plans for a major overhaul of the 1970s-era building. The project includes two new storm-shelter additions intended to house program space like culinary and science and protect students during severe weather. The plan also contemplates replacement of the swimming pool equipment, a new boiler, extensive HVAC and roof replacements and replacement of a large portion of temporary classroom walls.
Middle and elementary schools slated for key upgrades
NEWTON, Kan. - Beyond the high school, the proposal includes upgrades for all student-occupied buildings. For example, Chisholm Middle School would receive hardened restroom and shelter spaces and locker room renovations to meet Americans with Disabilities Act standards. All elementary schools are slated for playground equipment updates, exterior restoration and shelter door upgrades.
Safety and security upgrades a top priority in bond plan
NEWTON, Kan. - Student safety features prominently in the proposal, which calls for code-compliant storm shelters at Chisholm Middle School, Cooper Early Education Center and Newton High School. Elementary shelter door and mechanical upgrades and districtwide security measures, including interior intruder locks, are also included in the plan presented for board review.
Public information sessions on bond proposal planned
NEWTON, Kan. - The district said it will host two public informational sessions to present bond details and answer questions. Dates and locations will be announced. Residents should check the USD 373 Board of Education page and upcoming meeting dates, such as Oct. 13 and Oct. 27, 2025, for the latest information. Facility tours are expected to accompany public outreach.
German student exchange program praised as a success
NEWTON, Kan. - A recent two-week student exchange program that brought 15 students and two teachers from Germany to Newton High School was highlighted as a success at Tuesday’s board meeting. A board member shared that from Sept. 28 to Oct. 11, the German students attended classes and lived with local host families. The visiting teachers were reportedly impressed by the welcoming atmosphere and the wide range of classes and activities offered at the high school, reinforcing the value of the district’s long-standing German language program.
Head Start program reports full enrollment, strong parent engagement
NEWTON, Kan. - The district’s Head Start program is fully enrolled with a waiting list and is experiencing high levels of parent participation this year, according to a report from the Head Start Policy Council. A board member reported that the program is going well and that consistent parent attendance at council meetings has been a positive development for the early childhood initiative.
Board accepts over $10,000 in community donations
NEWTON, Kan. - The USD 373 Board of Education formally accepted $10,400 in donations from local businesses and individuals to support various school programs. The board expressed gratitude for the community’s generosity, which helps provide materials and technology for students. The largest gifts included $5,400 from Bunting Magnetics for the Newton High School Machining and Welding program and $4,000 from Dr. Jon and Sue Ann Jantz of Cottonwood Pediatrics for the school’s robotics team.
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