Kalamazoo Public Schools - February 5, 2026 Board of Education Meeting

Updated about 21 hours ago

During the Kalamazoo School Board Meeting on February 5, 2026, the board honors students from Northeastern and Woods Lake elementary schools for their achievements. A significant portion of the meeting is dedicated to reviewing the strategic plan's progress, focusing on academic excellence, fiscal responsibility, and operational effectiveness. Superintendent Slade provides updates on the district's initiatives, including literacy nights and the growth of advanced placement classes. The board also discusses plans for upcoming community engagement meetings and addresses fiscal audits and facility maintenance. The meeting concludes with board member comments highlighting community involvement and upcoming events.

Chapters

Call to Order (00:00:22)
The meeting is called to order with a greeting and initial remarks.

The meeting begins with a greeting, and the chairperson calls the meeting to order with an expression of welcome to the attendees.
Approval of Agenda (00:00:49)
The agenda is approved with a motion and a second from the trustees.

A motion to accept the agenda is made and seconded by the trustees. A roll call vote is conducted, and the agenda is approved unanimously.
Roll Call (00:01:14)
Attendance is taken, with all trustees present except two.

Secretary McGuin conducts a roll call. All trustees are present except for Trustee Peyton and Dr. So.
Student Recognitions (00:01:26)
Students from Northeastern and Woods Lake are honored for their achievements.

Students from Northeastern Elementary and Woods Lake Elementary Center of the Arts are recognized for their academic and personal achievements by their principals, Ms. Washington and Ms. White, respectively.
Community and School Reports (00:10:41)
Reports from community and school activities are shared, with upcoming meetings noted.

The chair mentions that community and school committees have not yet met this month but are scheduled to meet in the coming weeks. Secretary McGuin shares various communications and requests received.
Approval of Calendar Items (00:12:36)
The board approves calendar items with a motion and a second.

A motion to accept the calendar items is made, seconded, and approved by the trustees after a brief discussion.
Superintendent's Report (00:13:37)
The superintendent presents updates on strategic plan progress and various initiatives.

The superintendent provides a comprehensive update on the district's strategic plan progress, including achievements in academic excellence, community engagement, safety, and fiscal responsibility. Highlights include improvements in graduation rates, student achievements, and operational effectiveness.
Comments by Trustees (00:37:28)
Trustees share comments and acknowledgments about community events and board activities.

Trustees take turns expressing their thoughts on recent community events, acknowledging contributions of staff and community members, and highlighting ongoing school activities. Comments include praise for staff efforts, recognition of student and community achievements, and updates on sports and extracurricular activities.
Welcome and Introduction (00:44:38)
The meeting began with a welcome and introduction, highlighting the importance of the gathering.

The meeting was called to order, with attendees welcomed. The purpose and significance of the meeting were outlined briefly.
Community Art and Sports Event (00:44:45)
A report on the art and basketball event at Loy North, showcasing Millwood students' artwork and fostering community spirit.

The meeting included a report on the first annual art and basketball event at Loy North. Millwood elementary students displayed their artwork, and the event aimed to build relationships by combining art and sports, providing a platform for students and parents to engage with the community.
School Sports Achievements (00:45:19)
Updates on recent achievements of school sports teams, including significant victories and current standings.

The meeting highlighted recent achievements in school sports, including a major win by the KMSU central team over Muskegon and the girls varsity basketball team's winning streak. These accomplishments underscore the strength and dedication of the student athletes.
Acknowledgment of School Personnel (00:46:26)
A heartfelt acknowledgment of school personnel's dedication during challenging winter months, appreciating their hard work.

The board expressed gratitude to all school personnel, from bus drivers to cafeteria staff, for their tireless efforts during a challenging time of year, marked by flu season and inclement weather. Their contributions were recognized as vital to the school's operation.
Strategic Plan Discussion (00:47:01)
Discussion on the implementation and ongoing evaluation of the school's strategic plan, ensuring active engagement and progress.

The strategic plan was discussed, emphasizing its role as a guiding document rather than a static plan. The importance of continuous evaluation and stakeholder engagement was highlighted, with Dr. Slade commended for leading these efforts.
Teacher Advisory Council Feedback (00:48:19)
Positive feedback from the Teacher Advisory Council meeting, highlighting open dialogue with staff and teachers.

The board reflected on the recent Teacher Advisory Council meeting, where teachers provided honest and constructive feedback. The open dialogue facilitated by Dr. Slade was praised as a crucial component of improving educational practices.
Scratch Kitchen Initiative (00:49:03)
Introduction of the scratch kitchen initiative aimed at improving student nutrition by reducing preservatives in meals.

The meeting introduced the scratch kitchen initiative, designed to enhance student nutrition by eliminating preservatives from school meals. The initiative was presented as a step towards healthier eating and more efficient food service operations.
Black History Month and Community Efforts (00:50:02)
Celebration of Black History Month and community efforts to provide warming centers and support during the cold season.

The board celebrated Black History Month and acknowledged community initiatives to provide warming centers for the unhoused. These efforts were highlighted as essential community support during the cold season.
Youth Connect and Community Programs (00:51:00)
Announcement of Youth Connect date and various community programs, including clinics and support services.

Youth Connect announced their upcoming event, and various community programs were highlighted, including cooking clinics, podcasting, and boxing. These programs aim to engage youth and provide valuable skills.
NSBA Advocacy Conference Report (00:54:01)
Report from the NSBA Advocacy Conference, discussing federal education policies and initiatives.

Attendees of the NSBA Advocacy Conference reported back on discussions about federal education policies, including school law updates and funding for food programs. The conference provided insights into potential policy changes and advocacy efforts.
IDEA Funding and Special Education (00:57:42)
Discussion on IDEA funding and advocacy for special education, highlighting the need for increased resources.

The meeting addressed the importance of advocating for increased IDEA funding to support special education. Discussions included innovative approaches to attract special education teachers and improve support for homeless children.
Adjournment (01:01:06)
The meeting concluded with a motion to adjourn, thanking participants for their contributions and attendance.

The meeting was adjourned after thanking all participants for their contributions. A motion to adjourn was made and seconded, concluding the session on a positive note.