3 takeaways from Topeka USD 501 school board meeting
December 18 2025
Board postpones vote on employee policy changes
District receives TIF notice from city, sets meeting
Board pursues sponsorship for COLA legislation
Board postpones vote on employee policy changes
TOPEKA, Kan. - Following feedback from the National Education Association-Topeka (NEA-Topeka) and community members, the USD 501 Board of Education withdrew a motion to approve updates to board policies. Board member Sue Bolley cited concerns regarding ambiguous language in the proposed regulations, specifically regarding the definition and application of "false statements." The board agreed to delay the vote indefinitely to allow the policy committee time to review the feedback and clarify the language before bringing it back to the table.
District receives TIF notice from city, sets meeting
TOPEKA, Kan. - Board member Sue Bolley announced that the district recently received a tax increment financing (TIF) notice from the City of Topeka, marking a significant shift in communication regarding local development incentives. Bolley credited the district's human resources leadership, led by General Director Jessica Williams, for improving connections with city officials. A public meeting to discuss the board's stance on TIF concerns is scheduled for Dec. 29 at 4 p.m.
Board pursues sponsorship for COLA legislation
TOPEKA, Kan. - Board member Sue Bolley reported that a Kansas Public Employees Retirement System (KPERS) cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) bill has been approved for the upcoming legislative session. Bolley noted that this is the first time in decades that a COLA provision has been included in such a bill. The board is currently working to secure state representatives to sponsor the legislation.
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