The Lansing USD Special Board Meeting held on November 26, 2024, focused on key discussions regarding community engagement and upcoming bond initiatives. The meeting began with an overview of the district's communication strategies, emphasizing the importance of reaching out to the broader community, particularly the undecided voters.

A significant portion of the discussion revolved around the anticipated formation of both "vote yes" and "vote no" committees for the upcoming bond measure. Board members expressed the need to understand public sentiment and the effectiveness of outreach efforts. They highlighted the importance of targeting the 80% of the community that remains neutral or undecided, rather than focusing solely on the extremes of public opinion.

Concerns were raised about potential changes in funding from the Department of Education, with discussions indicating that while some funding might be redirected to states as block grants, it would not directly impact facilities. This led to a broader conversation about the implications of these changes on local education funding and resources.

The board also addressed the format and duration of phone surveys intended to gauge public opinion. It was noted that previous surveys had successfully engaged participants for about six minutes, which is considered an optimal length to maintain interest. The possibility of directing survey participants to the district's website for further information was debated, with concerns about providing unequal access to information among different community members.

Additionally, the board discussed the primary sources through which community members receive information about the school district. It was noted that personal connections, such as friends and neighbors, remain the most significant source, followed by social media platforms like Facebook. The board was encouraged to consider targeted advertising on these platforms to enhance outreach efforts.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the district's commitment to engaging the community effectively as it prepares for the upcoming bond vote. Board members acknowledged the importance of understanding public sentiment and ensuring that all community members have access to accurate information regarding the district's initiatives. Further steps will be taken to refine communication strategies and prepare for the anticipated vote.