Edmond schools approve relocation project and special education hiring bonus

The Edmond Public Schools (EPS) Board Meeting on June 3, 2025, focused on several key issues, including construction updates, special education hiring incentives, and insurance policy approvals for the upcoming school year.

One of the primary discussions involved the relocation of a significant underground 60-inch pipe that affects the campus and surrounding neighborhoods. The board emphasized the urgency of completing this relocation early in the semester to minimize disruption. Adjustments were made to the bond funding to accommodate this unexpected expense, which was not included in the original project budget.

In another significant agenda item, the board approved a special education hiring bonus for the 2025-2026 school year. This initiative aims to address a current shortage of approximately 18 special education teachers. The bonus structure mirrors last year's successful program, which helped fill many positions by incentivizing general education teachers to transition into special education roles. The board expressed optimism that this approach would again assist in recruitment efforts.

The meeting also covered the approval of insurance policies for the upcoming school year. The board discussed the rising costs associated with liability insurance, attributed to an increase in claims and a more litigious environment for public schools. Despite these challenges, the property insurance premiums saw a decrease of about 7%, which was welcomed as a positive development. The board approved the liability insurance policy at a cost of $313,720 and the property insurance policy for nearly $3.97 million, both reflecting the district's ongoing efforts to manage costs effectively.

Overall, the meeting highlighted EPS's proactive measures to address infrastructure needs, staffing shortages, and financial management in the face of rising insurance costs, ensuring the district remains focused on providing quality education and support for its students.