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Superintendent outlines LP bus purchase, EMLs and CTE plans including youth apprenticeship
Summary
Superintendent Pete told the board the district plans to acquire an LP-powered bus—replacement rather than a route vehicle—with a local fuel provider offering to install a fueling station at no cost; he also described new intervention framework (EMLs), CTE/robotics expansion plans and youth apprenticeship outreach through CISA 12.
Superintendent Pete updated the Solon Springs School District board on several operations and instructional priorities at the March 24 meeting, highlighting a planned LP-powered bus purchase, the district's adoption of an Equitable Multi‑Tiered Level System of Supports (EMLs), and efforts to strengthen career and technical education.
On transportation, Pete said the district is pursuing an LP-powered bus to replace an existing vehicle. He said the district has received a preliminary procurement proposal and that a local fuel provider has offered to install a fueling station on its site at no charge to the district; the district would cover fueling costs. Pete noted that prices for buses are scheduled to increase on April 1 due to tariff changes, and estimated that the district could see an approximate $7,000–$10,000 increase if the purchase is delayed past that date.
"It's a win-win for every one of us," Pete said of the fueling arrangement, adding that training for drivers would be provided and the bus would be maintained by the district. The superintendent emphasized the vehicle is being purchased through a charter grant and will be maintained as part of district fleet, with a usage agreement to be developed between the district and the charter board.
On student supports, Pete described the district's move to an Equitable Multi‑Tiered Level System of Supports (EMLs), which he framed as an evolution of earlier RTI/MTSS frameworks. He said EMLs will provide a clearer decision-making framework for determining which students require interventions or referral to special education and will establish a schedule and process (referred to in the transcript as "wind time") for targeted interventions.
On career and technical education, the board discussed efforts to expand course tracking and offerings to increase Perkins grant eligibility and funding. Proposed areas for expansion included metals and welding, woodworking, CNC/drafting, CNA and medical classes, and increased engineering and robotics opportunities. The board discussed partnering with Northwood Tech and other regional providers to expand access. The CISA 12 representative for youth apprenticeship, Olivia Dashel, is expected to work with the district to develop employer partnerships and bolster student apprenticeship participation in the next school year.
Pete also reminded the board of the different federal funds that come back to districts (IDEA, Title I, Perkins) and urged engagement with congressional representatives to understand policy changes at the federal level.
The board did not take a formal vote on program expansions at the meeting but directed staff to continue planning work and to bring procurement paperwork for the bus forward quickly to avoid expected price increases.
