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Survey shows strong local support for Salina schools; board approves two CTE courses
Summary
A district survey showed high positive perceptions of Salina Public Schools and strong support for early childhood expansion and CTE awareness; the board approved two CTE course additions (Web & Digital Workplace Experience and Baking & Pastry) and passed several routine consent items.
Communications staff presented results of a September community perception survey showing broadly favorable views of Salina Public Schools and strong community interest in expanded early childhood opportunities and career-technical education (CTE).
Presenter told the board the statistically reliable survey (conducted with a Kansas City-area firm) found that the district is "viewed as an exemplary resource for our students, and it's very highly regarded among the community." Key figures cited by staff: 85% of respondents said they were very or somewhat aware of district programs such as CTE, clubs, athletics and fine arts; 92% said expanding early childhood education opportunities is somewhat or very important; and 60% supported shifting middle/high boundaries to keep secondary buildings similar in size. Staff said the district will publish a press release and a more detailed report following the meeting.
Board members then considered curriculum items that align with community priorities. District staff proposed two CTE additions for 2025-26: a full-year, application-level "Web and Digital Workplace Experience" course (which aligns with updated state course descriptions and includes workplace experience components) and a semester-level "Baking and Pastry" course to expand the culinary strand. A board member moved to move the item to action and approve the course proposals; the board approved the courses 7-0.
Routine business: the consent agenda passed 6-0 and included minutes, personnel and financial reports, an encumbrance to Logicalis for an estimated $1,352,052.62 for districtwide switch replacement, and acceptance of donated wrestling mats valued at $20,000 for Central and South High Schools. The board also approved a set of 2025 legislative priorities for use as talking points with state legislators (motion carried 6-0).
Next steps: staff said the survey full report will be released and district communications will use the findings to inform outreach and SPS Chats.
