USD 453 Leavenworth Board of Education Meeting: Monday, November 10, 2025

The USD 453 Leavenworth Board of Education held a meeting on November 10, 2025, focusing on several key topics including legislative priorities, budget challenges, and capital improvement projects. Significant discussion centered on the rising costs and challenges related to contracting teachers, especially in special education, and the impact on district budgets. The board also reviewed capital projects, notably recommending the use of a construction manager at risk delivery method for a culinary classroom renovation and parking lot expansion, with plans to issue an RFQ/RFP to select the contractor. Additionally, the board discussed potential property disposition strategies for the Netti Hartnett Education Center, ultimately leaning toward selling the property rather than replatting. Budgetary concerns were highlighted, including the impact of transportation funding formulas, Medicaid reimbursement limitations for certain staff positions, and the ongoing strain of special education costs. The meeting included recognition of staff achievements, updates on academic performance data, and community input on school climate issues. Motions were passed to approve staffing reports and consent agendas, and the board emphasized the need for strategic planning in response to enrollment declines and facility utilization.