Board approves third year of executive and instructional coaching after extended discussion over cost

The Dodge City USD 443 Board of Education on April 14 approved continuing executive and instructional coaching work with consultant Michelle Harris and Growth Coaching International, a package board members discussed at length because of its cost.

The motion, made by Ryan and seconded by Tammy, passed unanimously, 5-0.

Board members and school administrators said the coaching has been valuable to principals, instructional coaches and district leaders. “Her coaching pushed us to be more purposeful and how we lead,” said Martha Mendoza, describing how administrators used questioning techniques and adjusted coaching styles. “It really has given us a chance to move instruction forward.”

Principal Karla Medrano told the board that one-on-one coaching “has been a life changer” and described the confidential, goal‑driven sessions she said helped her and two colleagues. “It feels honestly like it’s probably one of the most powerful PDs I’ve had in my career,” she said.

During discussion, a board member questioned the price and procurement process, saying a rate of $6,500 per day for 16 days represented a “six‑figure” investment. Superintendent Doctor Dirkson acknowledged the cost and said the district had considered less expensive options but chose the vendor for content quality and continuity with prior years. Dirkson said the district negotiates fees and balances cost against expected impact.

The district told the board the work will be funded from a mix of sources (Title fund 15, at‑risk funds and similar grants) and accounted for in next year’s fiscal budget. The administration described the plan as a three-part package: (1) continued individual coaching for instructional coaches, (2) advisory/planning support for district leadership, and (3) on‑site work with building administrators, including walk‑throughs and reflective conversations.

Board discussion included questions about whether the district must competitively bid the services; staff said they did not believe a formal bid was required for this service contract and that the vendor was selected for technical fit and established relationships. Several board members and administrators framed the spending as an investment in staff retention and leadership development.

The board approved the recommendation as presented. The action authorizes the district to contract with Michelle Harris (Endeavor More) and to continue the Growth Coaching International engagements for the 2025–26 school year, with costs to be coded to the district’s budgeting funds and reconciled by the business office.

Less central details: staff said coaching sessions include multiweek cycles, principals receive on‑site walkthrough feedback, and executive coaching engagements include six coaching sessions per participant with confidential, goal‑oriented follow‑ups.

Ending: Board members who spoke in favor said they were mindful of cost but convinced by administrators’ reports of measurable leadership and instructional improvements.