Karnes alternative program reports rise in course completions, outlines plan to gain independent building number

Karnes staff presented an update to the Geary County Schools Board of Education on Jan. 13, 2025, reporting increased course completions and 19 early graduates while outlining next steps to improve attendance, reading and math outcomes.

The presentation, delivered by Karnes leadership and summarized to the board, said 19 students were identified as early graduates last year — 17 from the Karnes program and two at the JDC — and that staff logged 434 course completions and 217 credits earned in the prior year. "The biggest win we had is that first glow up there, which is 19 early grads," Karnes leadership said. The speakers described a mix of additional course-count figures during the presentation (one slide noted 237 courses completed) and did not explain the discrepancy on the record.

Karnes staff said the program serves students for a variety of reasons, including behavioral challenges, academic struggles and social-emotional needs. The program uses smaller classes, computer-based instruction combined with hands-on activities, and partnerships with Kansas Connect and Job Corps to provide alternative pathways to graduation. Leaders said they have implemented a behavior-intervention room…