Kelsey Seybold Awards $10,000 Scholarships for Health Care Students Annually

The Stafford Joint City Council and SMSD Board of Trustees meeting on August 25, 2025, highlighted significant developments in the local education system and community support initiatives. Key discussions included a scholarship opportunity and updates on the school district's budget and infrastructure challenges.

A notable announcement was made regarding the Kelsey Seybold scholarship, which offers $10,000 for three students each year pursuing healthcare-related studies. This scholarship will open for applications in February, and officials plan to share this information with local high school principals to encourage eligible seniors to apply.

The meeting also addressed the school district's financial health. A representative reported a balanced budget that includes salary increases for all staff, emphasizing the importance of every employee in the district's operations. The fund balance has significantly improved, rising from approximately $30,000 to nearly $4 million, indicating a positive trend in financial management.

However, concerns were raised about the aging infrastructure of the district, which is over 40 years old. Community members expressed the need to confront these pressing issues directly. Additionally, the district faces ongoing challenges with recapture payments, which have been a financial burden over the past three years, with projections for a fourth payment in the upcoming year.

The meeting concluded with a recognition of upcoming leadership changes and retirements within the district, which may present further challenges. However, officials expressed confidence in their ability to address these issues collaboratively, ensuring that the needs of students remain a priority.