The Unified School District No. 261 board opened its meeting with recognitions for staff and students. Jillian called forward several nominees: Sierra Ruiz, a life-skills paraprofessional at Prairie Elementary described as having over 15 years of service; Brianna Newell, a school psychologist at Nelson Elementary; and Kelly Smith, a special education teacher at Campus High School who was named a Kansas Horizon Award winner and told she would receive $500 toward classroom supplies.

Jillian read nominations highlighting each employee's contributions. Kelly Smith's award was described as part of the Kansas Horizon Award program, administered by the Kansas State Department of Education to recognize exemplary first-year educators.

Campus High Student Council representative Jackson reported that Winner Wishes raised about $2,500 to support students, described a CocoCram tutoring and hot-cocoa event to help freshmen prepare for finals, and previewed a Leadership Academy for grades 2–5 planned for Presidents' Day.

Board members offered holiday well-wishes to staff and students and thanked those recognized.

What's next: Staff and award recipients will be photographed and recognized, and Student Council will proceed with the announced events.