2026-05-21 Board meeting

The Topeka Public Schools Board meeting held on May 21, 2026, included several key procurement and budget-related discussions. The board approved the reissuance of 2020B bonds as tax-exempt obligations and authorized the publication of a hearing notice to amend the 2025-2026 budget, specifically increasing expenditure authority for the at-risk fund by approximately $586,000 and adding $500,000 to the special education budget to cover unexpected costs, including transportation. The board also discussed the challenges of special education funding shortfalls, noting a $13.1 million gap due to state underfunding. Additionally, the meeting addressed policy and regulation changes related to compliance with Kansas state law and federal Office of Civil Rights requirements, particularly concerning restroom and athletic participation policies based on sex at birth. A motion to delete a specific regulation failed, and the board agreed to revisit the issue in the upcoming policy committee meeting. The meeting also highlighted the success of Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs and partnerships, including a transition from CNA to Patient Care Technician certification with local healthcare providers. No new contracts or vendor selections were explicitly mentioned, but budget amendments and bond refinancing were key procurement actions taken.