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USD 286 board approves policies, donations and extracurricular expansions; superintendent outlines wrestling proposal
Summary
The board approved donating old football bleachers to a local rodeo association, adopted a credit card rewards policy, expanded junior high cheer, and reviewed a proposed Jr./Sr. high wrestling program and Hudl broadcast costs.
The Unified School District No. 286 Board approved multiple routine items on Feb. 10, 2025 and heard program updates from district leadership.
The board voted unanimously to donate the district’s old football bleachers to the local Rodeo Association in their current condition with no guarantees, following a motion by P.J. Buck. The board also approved a Credit Card Rewards Redemption Policy (motion by Becky Smilko) and a Junior High cheerleader expansion (motion by Denise Signer), each recorded as passing unanimously.
During the Superintendent’s report, Rusty Arnold outlined a proposal to start a Jr./Sr. high wrestling program, describing student interest, estimated costs for uniforms and equipment, coaching needs and potential practice locations. Arnold also announced a chili/soup fundraiser on Feb. 13 in support of board member Denise Signer and noted continued use of Hudl Broadcast for stat tracking and optional broadcasting; he said broadcasting adds expense and that attendance at ballgames has declined.
Principals provided updates on student programming and assessment. Karla Cherico, 6–12 Principal, reported ACT prep participation, job-shadowing opportunities, CNA class enrollment at Independence Community College, and several upcoming events including Homecoming and FFA Week. John Gray, PreK–5 Principal, distributed after‑school program letters, named house leaders, discussed the Accelerated Reader awards, and reviewed Lexia student data showing improvement in targeted areas. Jonathan Cude asked whether the community is being notified about 5th grade assessment results; principals indicated ongoing review and communication practices.
The Consent Agenda included routine monthly approvals, the resignation of Nancy Pinard (Jr/Sr High Family and Consumer Science Instructor), and employment of Mick Holt as high‑school head baseball coach for 2025–26. The senior class requested approval for a trip to Destin, Florida, May 2–6, which was granted as part of the Consent Agenda.
A transportation report was presented; Superintendent Arnold noted the district is still awaiting delivery of a bus. Board members reviewed options for budget training offered by the Kansas School Board Resource Center and KASB and asked Becky Smilko to set a time and report back at the next meeting.
The meeting concluded with administrative communications and recognition of Nancy Pinard’s retirement. The next regular meeting is scheduled for March 10, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. in the district office.
