Garden City Schools streamline dual credit offerings for high school students

The Garden City Public Schools Board of Education made significant strides in enhancing educational opportunities during their meeting on May 5, 2025. A key decision was the approval of a streamlined process for offering dual credit classes in partnership with local colleges, aimed at improving student access to higher education.

Deputy Superintendent Josh Geimann and Associate Principal Dr. Virginia Duncan presented a plan to simplify the approval process for dual credit courses. This initiative responds to previous concerns about the frequency of requests for new classes, which had become overwhelming for the board. The new approach focuses on aligning courses with the Kansas Board of Regents (KBOR) requirements and Career and Technical Education (CTE) pathways, ensuring that students can earn credits that are transferable to state universities and community colleges.

Dr. Duncan emphasized that the proposed list of courses would fill existing gaps in the KBOR and CTE offerings, allowing students to benefit from dual credit opportunities without the confusion of a broad selection. The board will only need to review new courses that align with these standards, streamlining future approvals.

In addition to the dual credit discussions, the meeting also touched on the maintenance of school facilities, particularly gym floors. It was noted that the district's in-house team, led by Brandon, has been effectively managing the refinishing of gym floors, which typically require maintenance every 5 to 10 years. This proactive approach not only saves costs but also extends the lifespan of the facilities, ensuring they remain in good condition for student use.

Overall, the board's decisions reflect a commitment to enhancing educational pathways for students while maintaining the integrity of school facilities. As these initiatives move forward, they are expected to foster greater academic success and readiness for post-secondary education among Garden City students.