Southwest Public Schools board approves two elementary teacher contracts; superintendent reports facilities and curriculum work

The Southwest Public Schools Board of Education approved two elementary teacher contracts and heard a facilities and curriculum update from Superintendent Drew Billeter at its July 15 meeting in Bartley.

The board approved a contract for Stephanie Hansen to serve as an elementary music instructor and approved a contract for Alyssa Garrett to serve as an elementary special education instructor; both motions were recorded as carrying unanimously among members present. The minutes do not include salary or contract-term details.

Superintendent Drew Billeter briefed the board on multiple summer projects: custodial work across district buildings; final application of masonry sealant at the junior‑senior high building; refinishing the district gym floors and installing a shot clock; completion of an elementary rubber mulch project; installation of window guards on the junior‑senior high commons windows; district installation of classroom flat‑panel displays; arrival of elementary reading curriculum and related staff training; and attendance at an upcoming budget meeting and administrators’ days.

Why it matters: the hires fill instructional roles in music and special education ahead of the coming school year; the facilities work and curriculum arrival are preparatory steps expected to affect instruction and building operations before students return.

What’s next: HR was tasked with executing contracts and preparing onboarding; superintendent noted the next regular board meeting is set for August 12, 2024.