9 takeaways from Hays USD 489 school board meeting

Board approves asbestos abatement contract in split vote

USD 489 authorizes sale of land near middle school

Middle school move and construction update

USD 489 receives clean financial audit

Superintendent Wilson warns of state funding impact

Concessions generate revenue for student groups

First read held for policies on AI and controversial issues

Academic calendars approved for next two years

SRO update highlights security concerns on expanded campus

Board approves asbestos abatement contract in split vote

HAYS, Kan. - In a 4-2 vote, the board of education approved a bid of $110,350 from Integrated Solutions for asbestos abatement at Felten Elementary School. The project, which includes the removal of floor tile, adhesive and window glazing, must be completed before upcoming renovations. Board members debated the timeline and the use of out-of-state contractors, with a prior motion to table the item failing by a 4-2 vote. Dissenting members expressed frustration over the lack of lead time to review the bid and requested that major expenditures appear on agendas for discussion prior to a vote, though administration noted that delaying the abatement would disrupt the construction schedule and the start of the next school year.

USD 489 authorizes sale of land near middle school

HAYS, Kan. - The board voted 5-1 to authorize the sale of 7.23 acres of USD 489-owned property located north of the Hays Middle School football field via a sealed bid process. A motion to table the decision until January failed earlier in the discussion. While the board agreed to move forward with drawing up contracts and advertising the property, members stipulated that they reserve the right to reject bids that do not meet minimum thresholds or community standards. Discussion focused on ensuring the property is marketed widely to maximize returns and the potential future need for the land, though previous assessments deemed it surplus.

Middle school move and construction update

HAYS, Kan. - Superintendent Ron Wilson reported that the relocation to the new Hays Middle School is imminent, with the student move scheduled for later this week. The last day for students at the current middle school facility will be Wednesday, and they are scheduled to return to class at the new location on Jan. 7 following the winter break. Additionally, construction at O'Loughlin is progressing, with the cafeteria set to undergo renovations soon; food service will temporarily shift to the gymnasium, requiring logistical adjustments for physical education classes.

USD 489 receives clean financial audit

HAYS, Kan. - Representatives from Adams Brown, LLC presented the annual district audit, issuing an "unmodified opinion" on the regulatory basis of accounting, which is the highest rating available. The audit found no material weaknesses, significant deficiencies or statute violations for the fiscal year ending June 2025. USD 489's ending unencumbered cash balance was reported at over $21.6 million. The auditors noted one minor recommendation regarding the recording of expenditures in the correct fiscal year but commended the district's staff for their accuracy and internal controls.

Superintendent Wilson warns of state funding impact

HAYS, Kan. - Superintendent Ron Wilson provided a legislative update, warning that a statewide enrollment drop of approximately 9,000 students could impact future funding. Because state aid is tied to enrollment weightings, the decrease means less money is required for the state to meet its current obligations, potentially leaving $105 million in earmarked education funds unspent. Wilson noted that while the "cost of living" base per pupil might see a 3 percent increase, the overall reduction in student headcount means the district must remain cautious about budget expectations, particularly regarding special education funding.

Concessions generate revenue for student groups

HAYS, Kan. - For the first time, concession stand revenues at high school events are being distributed directly to student organizations. Superintendent Ron Wilson reported that fall sports concessions generated approximately $7,000, which was shared among four student groups. The district anticipates that winter sports could generate between $15,000 and $20,000. This new revenue stream allows student clubs and organizations to fund their activities and equipment without relying solely on traditional fundraising or parent contributions.

First read held for policies on AI and controversial issues

HAYS, Kan. - The board conducted a first read of several policy updates recommended by the Kansas Association of School Boards, including a new policy addressing the use of artificial intelligence in schools. Other notable updates included Policy IKB, which reinforces that teachers should remain neutral on controversial issues and not express personal viewpoints in the classroom, and changes to human sexuality education policies, which removed the specific reference to "AIDS" from the policy title while retaining the curriculum content. These policies will be brought back for a vote in January.

Academic calendars approved for next two years

HAYS, Kan. - The board unanimously approved the academic calendars for the 2026-27 and 2027-28 school years. The schedules remain consistent with current calendars to align with university schedules and regional activities. The last day of school for the 2026-27 year is set for May 21, with the following school year beginning Aug. 19. Professional development days were not explicitly listed on the approved calendars, as those dates are subject to upcoming negotiations with the teachers' association.

SRO update highlights security concerns on expanded campus

HAYS, Kan. - School Resource Officer Austin Spencer presented an update on security at the new high school and the upcoming middle school transition, noting that while the move has gone smoothly, the combined campus presents new challenges. Board members expressed concern regarding the ratio of one officer for approximately 2,000 students once the middle school relocation is complete. While Spencer expressed confidence in the current safety plans and collaboration with the local police department, the board requested a follow-up report at the end of the next semester to determine if additional security funding or personnel are required.

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