The Joplin Schools Board of Education approved multiple operational items at its March 2025 regular meeting — including a memorandum of understanding with Pittsburg State University to reserve up to 10 full‑ride scholarships for Franklin Technology students, a recurring MasteryConnect subscription, E‑rate‑funded network upgrades, a Chromebook refresh and a district copier contract — and adopted the spring budget adjustment after removing a proposed $2,572,490 classroom trust fund transfer.
The district’s safety committee updated the board on visitor-management system requests for qualifications, an August 2025 target for implementation, full transportation staffing, a new camera system, expanded access-control fobs and a pilot of one-way radios for elementary buildings.
The board approved a multi-year photography contract with Wagner Portrait Group after a 27-page RFP and community input; the package includes lower-cost digital and print options, senior portrait integration and student ID badges with crisis contacts.
Facilities staff outlined maintenance workload, staffing and capital projects; trustees approved accounts payable of $1,834,647, the consent agenda and other routine items and voted to adjourn to closed session.
The Joplin Schools Board acknowledged scoring that ranked Carlson highest in the districts construction-manager-at-risk (CMAR) procurement for three elementary additions and authorized staff to proceed with contract negotiations; final award will return to the board for approval.
