Kalamazoo Public Schools - February 19, 2026 Board of Education Meeting

Updated about 2 hours ago

The board recognized achievements from King Westwood Elementary and Lynden Grove. The meeting featured presentations by educational leaders, highlighting awards such as the Excelsior Award and the Whole Child Gold Award. Superintendent Dr. Slate presented data on improved attendance rates across district schools. The board discussed the importance of professional development and budget considerations, including bond-funded security upgrades. The meeting also addressed the need for a district field house to enhance athletic facilities.

Chapters

Welcome, Call to Order, and Pledge of Allegiance (00:00:06)
The meeting was called to order, and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited to begin the proceedings.

The meeting was officially called to order, and the attendees collectively recited the Pledge of Allegiance to mark the commencement of the session.
Approval of Agenda (00:00:32)
A motion to accept the agenda was made and seconded. All trustees present voted in favor.

A motion to accept the meeting agenda was put forward by Trustee Schola Barber and seconded by Trustee Johnson. The motion was carried with all trustees voting in favor.
Roll Call (00:00:53)
Roll call was conducted to confirm attendance. All trustees were present except Trustee Peyton.

Secretary McGlynn conducted the roll call, confirming that all trustees were present except Trustee Peyton. Dr. Slate was also noted as present.
Recognitions (00:01:09)
Several recognitions were made, including King Westwood Elementary, Biotics FTC Team, and Michigan Instructional Leaders Association.

The meeting included recognitions for various accomplishments. King Westwood Elementary School was recognized, with Principal Erica Zaki and Assistant Principal Erin Mason presenting awards to students. The Biotics FTC Team was also recognized, with awards presented to team members by middle school principals. Additionally, representatives from the Michigan Instructional Leaders Association presented the Gold Award to Lynden Grove for their whole child initiatives.
Committee Reports (00:14:12)
Reports from various committees were presented, including Academic Excellence, Community Relations, Operations, and Governance.

The meeting included reports from several committees. Academic Excellence discussed summer reading programs, Community Relations covered upcoming community engagement activities, Operations updated on budget and bond projects, and Governance addressed policy updates. The Superintendent Evaluation and Support Committee also provided insights into supporting the superintendent's needs.
Correspondence (00:17:42)
Correspondence received by the board was reviewed, including emails from community members and responses by trustees.

Secretary McGlynn reported on correspondence received by the board, including emails from Raquel Juarez, LaVonte Herd, and Alana Wood. Responses were made by Secretary McGlynn and Dr. Slade.
Consent Calendar Items (00:18:35)
The board reviewed and discussed purchase recommendations funded by bonds for various school improvements.

The board reviewed seven purchase recommendations, most of which were funded by bonds. These included literacy supports, cafeteria acoustical panels, security cameras, emergency responder systems, technology upgrades, secure vestibules, and flooring replacements. Trustees discussed the importance of bond funding and its impact on school improvements.
Superintendent's Report (00:27:58)
The superintendent provided updates on attendance, sports events, and strategic plan meetings.

The superintendent reported positive trends in attendance and efforts to maintain it. A major basketball event was highlighted with a note on capacity limits and sportsmanship expectations. Upcoming strategic plan meetings open to the community were announced, along with updates on Saturday school and literacy nights.
Professional Development Advisory Committee (00:37:03)
A motion to approve the formation of a Professional Development Advisory Committee was passed.

The board approved the formation of a Professional Development Advisory Committee, which will recommend professional development activities to be counted as instructional time. This committee will include teaching staff, non-teaching staff, parents, and administrators.
Public Comments (00:40:34)
Brad Schmidt, a teacher and coach, addressed the board during public comments.

During the public comment section, Brad Schmidt, a teacher, coach, and parent in the district, took the opportunity to speak to the board about his experiences and perspectives.
Memorial for Coach Duckett (00:41:16)
Discussion on the memorial for Coach Duckett and appreciation for the venue at Le Nors High School.

The board discussed the memorial held for Coach Duckett at Le Nors High School's Kada Auditorium. There was appreciation expressed for the efforts to organize the event and the importance of acknowledging contributions while individuals are present.
Proposal for Field House (00:41:33)
Proposal for a new field house for district schools to improve athletic opportunities.

A proposal was made to address the lack of a field house for the district's high schools. The need for such a facility was emphasized due to harsh winter conditions limiting athletic activities. A field house would provide opportunities for athletics and community fitness.
Professional Development Requests (00:44:03)
Requests for professional development for two trustees were mentioned.

The board noted professional development requests for Trustee Murphy and Trustee Johnson, indicating ongoing efforts to enhance trustee capabilities.
Trustee Comments on School Activities (00:44:18)
Trustees commented on various school activities and events, showing community involvement.

Trustee McGlynn and others shared their experiences attending school events such as robotics competitions, student advisory meetings, and parent engagement sessions. They highlighted the achievements of students and staff and the importance of these events.
Sports Achievements and Updates (00:52:58)
Achievements in school sports, including wrestling and swimming, were highlighted.

The board celebrated the accomplishments of students in sports, including wrestling and swimming. Notable achievements were shared, such as qualifications for state finals and successes in tournaments, underscoring the district's strong athletic programs.
Closure and Move to Executive Session (01:00:03)
The board moved to enter a closed session to review a legal opinion under attorney-client privilege.

The meeting concluded with a motion to convene in a closed session to discuss a written legal opinion exempt from public disclosure due to attorney-client privilege. This marks the transition from public discussion to a confidential session.