By Lucky Kidd
BUHLER, Kan. — The Buhler USD 313 Board of Education received a report during Monday’s meeting on the number of non-resident spots that will be available for the 2024-25 school year under a new state-mandate open enrollment policy.
Superintendent Cindy Couchman presented a report outlining projected enrollment in the district for the 2024-25 school year and available capacity at each grade level. That report indicated no non-resident seats would be available for the 5th, 6th, 7th and 10th grades with just one slot for 9th grade. 25 4th grade slots would be available, 21 for 8th Grade. Other grades as of current projects will have anywhere between eight and 15 students.
The application window for non-resident students will open on June 1st.
The Board also heard a report on changes to graduation requirements which will take effect for the Class of 2028, or this year’s 8th grade class. The changes mandated by the Kansas State Board of Education include a requirement students complete at least two “post-secondary” assets prior to graduation.
There are multiple ways this can be met. Among them are achieving at least a 21 ACT or 1200 SAT score or earning state assessment scores of 3 or 4 in the areas of math, science and English language arts. Other ways it can be met include completion of community service, earning industry recognized certifications, activity participation, among many others. Examples of others include earning a Boy Scout Eagle Scout or Girl Scout Gold Award or a Kansas 4-H Key Award
The Board approved purchase of “line of sight” and security film for district buildings. Business Manager Shane Hecox said this film, purchase of which from Innovative is being funded by the Safe and Secure Schools Grant, is currently in place at Plum Creek Elementary School, and shields outside views into the school during the day but allows it during the night. It’s similar to what you see at some businesses.
During the meeting, the board also approved a banking services agreement with First National Bank, and a number of policy revisions as recommended by the Kansas Association of School Boards.
Approval of a Memorandum of Understanding for the Parents as Teachers program was given that involves Reno County school districts, and the draft calendars for the 2024-25 and 2025-26 school years, subject to negotiations, along with approving out of state travel for the cross country and volleyball teams for summer camps and for Superintendent Cindy Couchman for a national conference in May in New Orleans.
The board also approved updated job descriptions for two supplemental positions as color guard head and assistant instructors, and approved award of professional development points for those who attended and reflected on the All-Hands On Deck conference Reno County schools conducted January 3rd.
Special recognition was also given to Buhler High School bowling teams who took part in the state tournaments last month in Wichita. The girls team won the 4-1A state title and will be getting a banner at Jim Baker Fieldhouse to recognize that accomplishment. Buhler High only recognizes state champions with banners in the gym.
