Takeaways from McPherson USD 418 School Board Meeting
Week of April 14, 2026
Board approves resolution for $89.5 million bond sale
District advances logistics for elementary school consolidation
Board approves early end to elementary school year in 6-1 vote
Board approves 2026-2027 academic calendar
New middle school math and high school speech credits approved
District readies for potential shift in state testing model
District prepares for state-mandated 'bell-to-bell' cell phone ban
Board approves resolution for $89.5 million bond sale
MCPHERSON, Kan. - The USD 418 Board of Education unanimously approved a resolution authorizing the sale of $89.5 million in general obligation bonds following a successful recent election. Financial advisor Dustin Avey of Piper Sandler detailed the financial plan, noting the bond will result in a 4.75 net mill increase for patrons, meeting the commitments communicated during the campaign. The financial package includes paying off existing leases and 2019 bonds early, which is projected to generate an estimated $855,000 in combined interest cost savings for the district.
District advances logistics for elementary school consolidation
MCPHERSON, Kan. - Superintendent Shiloh Vincent provided an update on the logistical planning for shifting the district from four elementary schools to three next academic year. McPherson County has launched a GIS map to help parents identify their new school boundaries, and district leaders are currently finalizing staffing assignments and student transfer requests. Phase one of the physical move — including boxing up personal effects at the closing Eisenhower Elementary — is slated to begin before the end of the current school year, with heavy furniture to be moved over the summer.
Board approves early end to elementary school year in 6-1 vote
MCPHERSON, Kan. - The board voted 6-1 to adjust the current elementary school calendar, making May 14 the final day of classes for elementary students and canceling a previously scheduled half-day on May 15. District leaders requested the change to give elementary staff a full workday to pack their classrooms ahead of the district's transition from four elementary schools to three. Concerns were raised during the meeting regarding the short notice given to parents who must now secure unexpected child care.
Board approves 2026-2027 academic calendar
MCPHERSON, Kan. - The board unanimously approved the 2026-2027 district calendar, which sets the final day of classes for May 19. Assistant Superintendent Ty Rhodes noted that calendar constraints — specifically the early placement of Easter in March and the community's desire to preserve Good Friday as a guaranteed day off — pushed the school year's end date slightly later than usual.
New middle school math and high school speech credits approved
MCPHERSON, Kan. - The board unanimously approved two curriculum proposals brought forward by the district curriculum committee. The additions include a new advanced math pathway for middle school students, designed to provide deeper instruction for advanced learners without forcing them to skip grade levels and miss foundational standards. Additionally, the board approved a measure allowing high school students to earn speech, debate or forensics credit through the current issues class.
District readies for potential shift in state testing model
MCPHERSON, Kan. - During a presentation on the district's Professional Learning Communities (PLCs), educators shared that McPherson is well-positioned for a Kansas State Department of Education pilot program that replaces end-of-year state summative assessments with quarterly testing. Teachers showcased new digital data tracking tools and uniform pacing guides that align local curriculum with state standards. Administrators noted this foundational work ensures the district is prepared if the state mandates the quarterly testing model in the coming years.
District prepares for state-mandated 'bell-to-bell' cell phone ban
MCPHERSON, Kan. - Administrators presented a draft policy that would prohibit student use of personal electronic devices during the school day to align with a new Kansas state law. The strict "bell-to-bell" ban will include all wireless communication devices, including smartphones and smartwatches. Limited exceptions will be made for students requiring devices for medical or educational needs outlined in Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) or 504 plans. The board is expected to formally adopt the policy before the state deadline, while building administrators work to develop clear disciplinary expectations and enforcement procedures.
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