Kalamazoo Public Schools (HD) - May 20, 2026 Kalamazoo Public Schools Board of Education

Updated about 3 hours ago

The Kalamazoo Public Schools Board of Education met May 20th, and celebrated students from Arcadia Elementary, the Science Olympiad team from Lynden Grove, and the Loy Norrix DECA team was also acknowledged for their accomplishments, with some students advancing to national competitions. Staff awards were presented to special education professionals for their outstanding contributions. Retirees were honored for their dedicated service to the district. Superintendent's updates highlighted the importance of summer school attendance and preparations for upcoming graduation ceremonies. The meeting concluded with committee reports and a reminder for community safety during the Memorial Day weekend.

Chapters

Call to Order and Pledge of Allegiance (00:00:00)
The meeting was called to order and began with the Pledge of Allegiance.

The meeting clerk called the meeting to order and the attendees stood for the Pledge of Allegiance.
Approval of Agenda (00:00:24)
Motion to accept the agenda was made and seconded, followed by a unanimous vote in favor.

A motion to accept the agenda was made by Trustee Shallow Barbers, seconded by Trustee McGlynn, and was unanimously approved by all trustees present.
Roll Call (00:00:44)
Roll call was conducted with all trustees present except Trustee Johnson and Trustee Hill.

Secretary McLinn took attendance, confirming the presence of all trustees except Trustee Johnson and Trustee Hill. Dr. Slade was also present.
Recognition of Guests and Students (00:01:02)
Several schools were present and students from Arcadia Elementary were recognized for academic achievements.

Ms. Coney introduced guests from several schools, beginning with Arcadia Elementary. Ms. Wallace and Ms. Brown presented students who exhibited significant academic growth and leadership qualities.
Science Olympiad Team Recognition (00:06:33)
Linden Grove's Science Olympiad team was recognized for their achievements at regionals and state tournaments.

Mr. Mike Hughes, principal of Linden Grove, introduced the Science Olympiad team who placed eighth at regionals and qualified for the state tournament, earning first place in the solar system event.
DECA Team Recognition (00:11:02)
The Loy Norrix DECA team was recognized for competing at state and national levels.

Principal Chris Aga introduced the DECA team, highlighting their success under advisor Mr. Ward, including participation in national competitions.
Special Staff Awards (00:16:00)
Special education staff were awarded for their outstanding contributions to student success.

Assistant Superintendent Ricky Saunders and other district leaders presented awards to special education professionals who were nominated by parents for their dedication and impact on students.
Committee Reports (00:22:20)
Committee reports were given, including updates on policy and facilities.

Trustee Murphy reported on the policy committee's virtual meeting and upcoming policy work. Trustee McLinn gave a report on state finances and facilities updates.
Correspondence (00:23:02)
Secretary McLinn summarized correspondence received and responses made by the board and administration.

Various emails were received from the public regarding grievances, budget hearing timelines, AI in classrooms, and district funding, with responses provided by Dr. Slade and Vice President Hill.
Consent Calendar (00:24:12)
The consent calendar was approved, including a purchase recommendation for asbestos abatement.

A motion was made and seconded to approve the consent calendar. Ms. Kaiser presented a purchase recommendation for asbestos abatement at Phoenix High School, which was discussed and approved.
Superintendent's Report (00:25:39)
The superintendent provided updates on school events, retirements, graduation, and summer programs.

The superintendent celebrated the diversity event, recognized retiring staff, discussed upcoming graduations, and emphasized the importance of summer school attendance. Safety during Memorial Day weekend was also highlighted.
Trustee Comments (00:33:00)
Trustees gave comments acknowledging student achievements, staff retirements, and upcoming events.

Trustees congratulated students and staff for their achievements, recognized retirees, and encouraged community participation in upcoming graduations and summer programs. They also wished for a safe Memorial Day weekend.
Adjournment (00:41:00)
The meeting was adjourned by unanimous vote.

Trustee Murphy moved to adjourn the meeting, and it was seconded and approved by all present.