Garrard County board approves 2025–26 working budget, two buses, additional special‑education teacher and new student apprenticeship

The Garrard County Board of Education voted unanimously on a package of action items including approval of the district’s working budget for the 2025–26 school year, capital funds for two replacement buses, an additional special‑education teacher at Garrard (Gary) Middle School, a shortened school day for a high‑school student with a doctor’s recommendation, creation of a grant‑funded student apprenticeship position, and dates for three community forums about a proposed gym.

Superintendent Dr. Stull (Speaker 3) described the working budget and recommended approval; he told the board the district anticipates closing next year with an approximately 8% contingency. Following a motion and second, the board approved the working budget unanimously. Dr. Stull also recommended approving a capital funds request to purchase two buses now, saying funds were available; the board approved that request unanimously.

On staffing, Dr. Stull said increased caseloads at the middle school necessitated an additional special‑education teacher for 2025–26; the board moved and approved the position unanimously. The board also approved a shortened school day for a Garrard County High School student based on a medical recommendation.

The board approved creation of a student worker cloud‑operations specialist apprenticeship at no cost to the district, funded through a grant; the superintendent described it as an opportunity to give a high‑school student hands‑on experience. The board also approved three community forums to solicit public input on the gym project: Paint Lick Elementary (Sept. 30), Camden Robinson (Oct. 14) and Lancaster Elementary (Oct. 21).

All action votes recorded during the meeting were unanimous among the board members present. Later the board moved into an executive session; upon returning, members said no action was required and the meeting was adjourned.