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Joplin Schools board reorganizes, certifies April 7 bond and ratifies teacher contracts
Summary
At a reorganization meeting, the Joplin Schools Board of Education sworn in incumbents, elected David Weaver president and John Herd vice president, certified April 7 bond results and unanimously approved a newly ratified collective bargaining agreement and other routine motions.
The Joplin Schools Board of Education met for a reorganization session that included swearing in incumbents, electing officers, certifying the April 7 bond election and approving a series of district contracts and purchases.
Board members nominated and approved David Weaver as board president and John Herd as vice president after the swearing-in of board members who ran in the April 7 election. Superintendent Dr. Saketta told the board the Eagle Bond passed with roughly 75.5% of the vote on April 7, and the board formally recognized and approved those election results.
Board action included unanimous approval of a new collective bargaining agreement between the district and its unions (ratified by bargaining units), the payment of accounts payable, summer-school applications and capital purchases. Crystal, a union representative, described negotiations as collaborative: "we have such a good working relationship with Justin and the whole team," and said the agreement offers more flexible personal leave and retirement sick‑time conversion that teachers requested.
Votes at a glance - Approve meeting agenda: motion approved (vote recorded as unanimous yes). - Certify April 7, 2026 Board of Education election results: motion approved (board vote recorded as yes). - Elect David Weaver as board president: nomination approved by vote. - Elect John Herd as vice president: nomination approved by vote. - Approve collective bargaining agreement (Joplin Schools with J&A and JESP): motion approved (board recorded unanimous ratification by unions, board vote yes). - Approve accounts payable / pay bills: motion approved. - Approve Imagine Learning/Twig Education contract (curriculum): motion approved. - Approve purchase of skid steer: motion approved. - Approve cell‑tower amendment (10‑year rent extension): motion approved.
The board also received routine reports and recognitions, including staff and student awards and certificates to members of the long‑range facilities committee. The meeting adjourned following superintendent comments urging community engagement on state policy affecting school funding and accountability.
Next steps noted by staff include HPAC review of health‑plan premium recommendations this summer and continued implementation of bond‑funded projects.
The board will reconvene on its next scheduled meeting date for follow‑up items and to begin implementation of the items approved this evening.
