USD 400 approves teacher, staff salaries
School Board Approves New Teacher Contract, Salary Increases for All Staff
The Smoky Valley Board of Education unanimously ratified the 2025-26 negotiated agreement for teachers. The approval also included a corresponding percentage salary increase for all classified staff, directors, and administrators. Superintendent Heath Hogan presented the changes to the teacher agreement before the board voted on the compensation packages. The motion, made by Karla Pihl and seconded by Chris Baker, passed 6-0.
Student Meal Prices to Increase for 2025-26 School Year
Families in the Smoky Valley district will see higher meal prices next school year. The Board of Education approved a new fee schedule that increases the cost of breakfast and lunch for all students and adults. Lunch prices will rise by 25 cents at all grade levels, with K-4 lunch now costing $3.40, 5-8 lunch at $3.60, and high school lunch at $3.75. Student breakfast will also increase by 25 cents to $2.50. The board unanimously approved the new rates for the 2025-26 school year.
District Explores Career and Technical Education Partnership with Salina Tech
The school district is considering a partnership with Salina Area Technical College to expand Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs for Smoky Valley students. Dr. Greg Nichols, President of Salina Tech, updated the board on the college's growth and course offerings. Discussions followed about the possibility of collaborating to bring new CTE opportunities to the district, aligning with the board's goals.
Smoky Valley Schools to Implement Cardiac Emergency Response Plan
A new Cardiac Emergency Response Plan (CERP) will be implemented across the district to enhance student and staff safety. The plan was adopted in accordance with a Kansas Association of School Boards (KASB) policy requiring a formal procedure for cardiac emergencies. The board voted 6-0 to approve the new safety measure, which aims to provide a swift and effective response in the event of a cardiac incident on school grounds.
District Hires Alloy Architecture for Upcoming Projects
The Board of Education has officially contracted with Alloy Architecture for future district projects. In a 6-0 vote, the board approved a contract and the associated fee payment to the firm. While the specific projects were not detailed in the meeting, this move signals the start of planned construction or renovation work within the district.
Board Approves Over $15,000 for KASB Membership and Services
The district will pay the Kansas Association of School Boards (KASB) a total of $15,467.23 for the upcoming school year. The approved payment covers annual membership dues, the "Season Pass & KASB Plus" package at a cost of $12,717.23, and a renewal of the Legal Assistant Fund Membership for $2,750.00. The consent agenda, which included these fees, was approved unanimously.
District Declares Bus, Van, and Orchestra Equipment as Surplus
Smoky Valley is clearing out old assets, including a wheelchair-accessible bus and a minivan. A 2012 IC Wheelchair Bus with 107,000 miles and a 2008 Chevrolet Uplander with 180,000 miles were approved for surplus. Additionally, a significant amount of orchestra equipment, including numerous cellos, violins, and basses from Soderstrom Elementary, was also declared surplus. The items will now likely be sold or disposed of according to district policy.
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