Shelley Mantel elected president of Missouri School Boards Association at summer summit

Excelsior Springs School District is set to enhance student safety and improve infrastructure following key discussions at the Board of Education meeting on July 8, 2025. Superintendent Greg Gilkey announced plans to request funding for an additional School Resource Officer (SRO) to bolster security across district buildings. This initiative aims to utilize revenue from the public sales tax on marijuana, pending approval from the sales tax committee. The process for hiring and training the new officer could take six months to a year, emphasizing the district's commitment to maintaining a safe learning environment.

In addition to safety measures, the board reviewed ongoing summer capital projects, including significant repairs to the high school parking lot. The repairs, initially expected to be straightforward, have revealed deeper issues, necessitating additional work that could cost around $50,000. Superintendent Gilkey noted that addressing these problems now will prevent more extensive and costly repairs in the future.

The meeting also highlighted the success of the summer school program, which saw high enrollment and engaging activities for students. This program not only supports learning during the break but also contributes to the district's revenue through additional Average Daily Attendance (ADA) funding.

Looking ahead, the board is planning work sessions focused on long-term financial planning and strategic outlooks to address rising costs and evolving student needs. These sessions aim to foster discussion and collaboration among board members and district leaders.

As the school year approaches, the district is preparing for legislative changes regarding personal technology use in schools, with updates expected to be communicated to families soon. Superintendent Gilkey reassured the board that the district is proactive in adapting to these changes to ensure a smooth transition for students and staff.

Overall, the meeting underscored the district's dedication to enhancing safety, improving facilities, and fostering educational success, setting a positive tone as the new school year approaches.