USD 308 Board approves 2026-27 academic calendar

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The USD 308 Board of Education unanimously approved the 2026-27 academic calendar during its regularly scheduled meeting Feb. 23 at 6 p.m.

Deputy Superintendent Dr. Krystal Young and Hutchinson National Education Association President Lynnette Krieger-Zook presented the proposed calendar, which designates Monday, Sept. 14, as a no-work, no-school day during the Kansas State Fair. The designation followed strong support from a survey of parents and staff. The calendar is available at www.usd308.com/calendar.

Six of seven board members were present. Board Member Laura Corey was absent.

In her superintendent's report, Dr. Dawn Johnson discussed plans to refresh equipment in the Hutchinson High School cardio room, which serves both students and staff. Finance Director Abby Stockebrand is working with HHS staff to pursue grants and donations to fund the upgrades.

Johnson also raised the possibility of transitioning the high school from a trimester to a semester schedule, citing the complex scheduling considerations counselors and administrators manage each year. Board members expressed support for continued exploration of the change.

Johnson also announced the Lil' Hawks Child Care Center remains on track to open March 23 at 29th and Adams.

Dr. Krystal Young reported on professional development held during a recent two-day student break. Staff participated in building-level training Feb. 20, covering state assessment preparation, data analysis and Safe and Civil Schools training. On Feb. 23, the district held a Visible Learning professional development day focused on feedback strategies for strengthening student learning and engagement.

The board unanimously approved several items under the consent agenda, including the January 2026 Treasurer's Report, an early graduation request, and multiple grants and donations. Approved funding included a $2,000 grant from Southland Dairy Farmers to the HHS Athletics Department for chocolate milk for the track team, donations to the Stephanie Kraus Memorial Library at Graber Elementary School, a $2,500 donation to Lil' Hawks Child Care Center, and contributions to Lincoln-McCandless, Graber and Morgan elementary schools to reduce student meal debt.

Board members also recognized several district achievements, including CDDO Night, the NAACP Sharlotte Minnis "Tell Me About It" Poster Contest, KidWind teams advancing to state competition, the middle and high school jazz band concert, and HHS senior Giselle Rodriguez earning the Rudd Scholarship.

The board entered a 15-minute executive session to discuss non-elected personnel matters. The personnel report was unanimously approved upon returning to open session.

The next regularly scheduled board meeting will be held March 9 at 6 p.m. at the USD 308 Administration Center, 1520 N. Plum. The full agenda is available at www.usd308.com/boe.