School Board Approves Revised Policies and $618M Budget for 2025-2026 School Year

The Shawnee Mission School District Board convened on August 25, 2025, to address several key agenda items, including policy revisions, budget approvals, and contract authorizations. The meeting commenced with the approval of consent items 8.01 through 8.19, which passed unanimously.

The first action item was the second reading of revised policy JBCD regarding in-district transfers. Dr. Schumacher highlighted the policy's focus on academic good standing criteria and the communication efforts made to families affected by transfer revocations. The board approved the revised policy with a motion from Forkman and a second from Sinclair, passing 6-0.

Next, the board reviewed revised policy JBCD concerning open enrollment, which similarly clarified disciplinary good standing criteria. This policy also passed unanimously after a motion by Ausslee and a second from Westbrook.

The board then authorized the renewal of the medical insurance program with Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas City, effective January 1, 2026. Dr. Schumacher noted a 9.8% increase in overall plan costs and district contributions, which will be funded from various sources. The motion to approve this renewal was made by Ashley and seconded by Westbrook, passing 6-0.

Following this, the board addressed the approval of a resolution for a local option budget (LOB) percentage, authorizing a 33% LOB for the 2026 school year. The resolution passed with a motion from Portman.

The adoption of the 2025-2026 budget was another significant agenda item. The total budget was set at $618,209,561, following extensive preparation and assessment of educational needs. The motion to approve was made by Sinclair and seconded by Westbrook, passing unanimously. Dr. Schumacher acknowledged the considerable effort that went into crafting the budget aligned with the district's strategic plan.

Lastly, the board authorized a contract with the Children's Center for the Visually Impaired to provide supplemental staffing for the upcoming school year, with costs not expected to exceed $275,000.

In summary, the meeting was marked by significant policy approvals and budgetary decisions, reflecting the district's commitment to addressing the needs of its students and ensuring effective resource management. The board's next steps will include implementing the approved policies and budget as they move forward into the new school year.