Kalamazoo Public Schools - May 7, 2026 Board of Education Meeting

Updated about 10 hours ago

The Kalamazoo Public Schools Board recognized Student achievements from Woodward School and the Kalamazoo Virtual Program. The rest of the meeting highlighted various student advisory presentations, showcasing the impact of programs like the Knights Health Center and the Kalamazoo Innovative Learning Program. Community engagement was emphasized, with discussions on the recent approval of the KRESA budget and the need for improved school safety measures. The meeting also acknowledged the successful passing of a recent millage and the importance of community support in funding educational initiatives.

Chapters

Call to Order and Pledge of Allegiance (00:00:08)
The meeting is called to order, and the Pledge of Allegiance is recited as the starting protocols.

The meeting begins with a greeting and is officially called to order. The attendees then proceed to recite the Pledge of Allegiance as part of the standard opening procedure for formal meetings.
Approval of Agenda (00:00:35)
The agenda for the meeting is approved by a motion and second from trustees present.

A motion to approve the meeting agenda is made by Trustee Cheryl La Barber and seconded by Trustee Hill. The motion is carried with all present trustees voting in favor.
Roll Call (00:00:55)
Attendance is taken; all trustees are present except Trustee McGlynn. Dr. Slade is also present.

Trustee Hill takes attendance, noting that all trustees are present with the exception of Trustee McGlynn, who is absent. Dr. Slade is confirmed to be present at the meeting.
Student Board Recognitions (00:01:04)
Students from various schools are recognized for their achievements and improvements throughout the school year.

Principals and teachers present students from Woodward School, KLP, and the virtual program for their notable achievements. Each student is individually recognized for their improvements, dedication, and accomplishments in academics and personal growth.
Correspondence Report (00:19:05)
Trustee Hill reports on the correspondence received, including responses to community concerns and invitations.

Trustee Hill presents the correspondence report on behalf of Secretary McGlynn, listing several correspondences from community members and organizations. The report includes responses to concerns about school issues, staffing, and invitations to community events.
Consent Calendar Approval (00:21:22)
The consent calendar is approved after a discussion about the purchases and their funding sources.

A motion to approve the consent calendar is made and seconded. The discussion focuses on purchase recommendations, including reading recovery resources and media center furniture, with funding detailed from various grants and bonds.
Superintendent's Report (00:24:53)
The superintendent announces upcoming community meetings and student advisory presentations.

The superintendent addresses the attendees, highlighting upcoming community bond meetings and the final knock-and-talk event. Additionally, the superintendent introduces the student advisory group presentations, noting their role in discussing school district issues.
Student Advisory Presentations (00:27:17)
Students present on the benefits and impacts of the Knights Health Center at Loy Norrix High School.

Students from the student advisory council present on the Knights Health Center, discussing its role in providing healthcare services to students, the impact on student well-being, and the advocacy efforts for similar centers statewide. The presentation includes data on usage and testimonials on the benefits of such a resource.
Student Presentation on Virtual Program (00:38:09)
A student and their parent discuss the benefits and challenges of the virtual learning program.

A student shares their experience with the Kalamazoo virtual program, highlighting the flexibility it offers to travel and complete schoolwork simultaneously. They discuss the personalized learning environment and how it suits introverted students. Socialization concerns are addressed by balancing social and schooling time. The student interviews their parent, Dr. Cheri Fuller, who shares initial doubts about virtual learning during the pandemic but praises its success and impact on their child's academic performance and personal growth. The parent recommends the program for disciplined learners and advises parents to stay involved. The student thanks teachers and the board for their support.
Trustee Comments on Virtual Program (00:45:02)
Trustees commend the student and parent for their insightful presentation on virtual learning.

Trustee Payton thanks the presenters for sharing both a parent and student perspective on the virtual learning environment, highlighting its importance. Trustee Johnson congratulates the young student for their discipline and responsibility in the program, noting the positive impact on their life. Trustee Schola Barber suggests the presentation could serve as promotional material for the virtual program, noting the student's enthusiasm and success.
Student Advisory Presentation from Kalamazoo Central (00:45:46)
Kalamazoo Central students present on excellence, growth, and diversity in their school.

Brooklyn Gardner and Johnny Edwards from Kalamazoo Central High School present on the school's emphasis on excellence and diversity. They discuss how the school's diverse student body fosters success and creates a supportive environment. The presentation highlights achievements in academics and athletics, such as DECA nationals, state competition placements, and sports achievements. They emphasize the role of staff in supporting students' growth and the positive impact of the school's environment on student success and community contribution.
Trustee Comments on Kalamazoo Central Presentation (00:52:02)
Trustees praise Kalamazoo Central students for their presentation on diversity and success.

Trustee Schula Barber congratulates the students on a great presentation and acknowledges the pride they bring to their school. Trustee Hill appreciates the students' understanding of diversity as a strength and their ability to embrace differences. The trustees commend the students for their achievements and the positive impact of their school environment.
Phoenix High School Student Presentation (00:53:00)
Phoenix High School students present on their school's supportive and diverse environment.

Dontre Hempfield and River Ford, graduating seniors at Phoenix High School, present on their school's culture and support system. They highlight key staff members and programs that contribute to a safe and inclusive environment, emphasizing anti-bullying and anti-racism policies. The presentation covers the school's vision, community involvement, and opportunities for students, including work-based learning and sports. They discuss challenges faced by multilingual students and the support provided to overcome language barriers and cultural differences. The students express gratitude for the support and opportunities provided by their school.
Trustee Comments on Phoenix High Presentation (01:04:03)
Trustees commend Phoenix High School students for their informative presentation on diversity and support.

Trustee Schula Barber appreciates the family-like atmosphere described by the students and the emphasis on diversity and support. Trustee Hill praises the students for tackling challenges and recognizing the importance of an inclusive environment. Trustee Peyton acknowledges the students' comfort and convenience in their learning space, reflecting positively on the school's environment.
Kalamazoo Learning Program (KLP) Presentation (01:05:43)
KLP seniors present on the benefits and success of their alternative learning environment.

Chandler Bolden and Maa Rivera, seniors at the Kalamazoo Learning Program (KLP), present on their school's focus on personalized learning for credit-deficient students. They discuss the choice aspect of KLP, catering to students with diverse needs such as medical constraints or mental health. The presentation includes statistics on student success and the importance of alternative education in fostering academic achievement. They suggest improvements for increasing program visibility and highlight the inclusive and flexible learning environment that KLP provides.
Trustee Comments on KLP Presentation (01:10:17)
Trustees acknowledge the impact of KLP and the importance of offering diverse learning options.

Trustee Hill commends the students for highlighting the importance of personal choice in education and the success of KLP in providing a suitable learning environment for diverse learners. The trustees recognize the positive impact of alternative education programs in supporting student success and advocate for increased visibility and support for these programs.
Student Recognition (01:10:53)
Recognition of successful students and the positive impact of the program.

A board member expressed heartfelt recognition for two articulate young students who have graduated and praised the program they were part of. The program has been designed to ensure academic success, and the students have given valuable feedback to improve it further. The session ended with applause for the students.
Approval of Resolution for ISC General Fund Budget (01:12:03)
Resolution for local district's votes on the ISC General Fund budget was approved.

A motion was made to approve the resolution for the local district's vote on the ISC General Fund budget. The motion was moved by Trustee Murphy and seconded by Trustee Schola Barber and Trustee Johnson. The motion was approved with affirmative votes from all trustees present.
Public Comments on Safety Issues (01:12:43)
Public addressed ongoing safety issues with local infrastructure and emergency responses.

Ivan raised concerns about a malfunctioning light that poses a safety hazard and suggested improvements such as moving the lights and trimming trees. Caleb Bryant followed up on similar issues, highlighting pole placement and pedestrian access. He also addressed recent emergencies and inadequate communication during these events, stressing the need for better coordination with transportation and emergency services.
Trustee Comments (01:18:28)
Trustees shared updates and expressed gratitude for community participation.

Trustee Peyton acknowledged a former principal and highlighted a track and field event. Trustee Johnson reminded about the upcoming championship and extended Mother's Day and Memorial Day wishes. Trustee Schula Barber praised the students and thanked voters for supporting a millage. She encouraged attending student events and sports activities. The trustees expressed pride in students' achievements and community support.
Executive Session on Superintendent Evaluation (01:24:45)
Board moved to a closed session for superintendent's evaluation discussion.

The board decided to enter a closed session to discuss the superintendent's evaluation. A motion was made and seconded, with unanimous approval from the trustees. The session was closed to the public to maintain the confidentiality of the personnel evaluation process.