Kalamazoo Public Schools - June 25, 2026 Board of Education Meeting

Updated about 4 hours ago

The Kalamazoo Public Schools Board of Education held a special meeting primarily focused on the district's budget for the upcoming year. The board conducted a public hearing and fulfilled its legal obligations regarding budget discussions. Key topics included the approval of the construction projects for the new El Sol School and renovations at Woodward School, with significant contributions from district staff and partners. The meeting also highlighted the introduction of new air-conditioned buses and discussed efforts to maintain high safety standards. Superintendent reports included updates on summer school programs, food service initiatives, and hiring events. The board also approved an administrative appointment and recognized trustees for their achievements in professional development.

Chapters

Call to Order and Pledge of Allegiance (00:00:13)
The meeting was called to order and began with the Pledge of Allegiance.

The meeting began with a welcome and the chair called the meeting to order. This was followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.
Roll Call (00:00:42)
Roll call was taken and all trustees were present except Trustee Peyton.

Secretary McGlynn took attendance and confirmed that all trustees were present except Trustee Peyton. Dr. Slade was also present.
Public Hearing on Proposed Budget (00:00:57)
A public hearing was held to discuss the district's proposed budget. No public comments were made.

The purpose of the special meeting was to hold a public hearing to consider the district's proposed budget. The board fulfilled their responsibility to have a hearing before taking action on the budget. No members of the public requested to address the board.
Correspondence (00:16:01)
Two emails were received regarding the SP Bill of Rights and the Michigan Code of Educational Ethics.

Secretary McLinn reported on correspondence received, including two emails. One was about the SP Bill of Rights, and the other concerned the Michigan Code of Educational Ethics and staff training requests. Responses were sent to both.
Consent Calendar Items (00:16:37)
The board reviewed and approved four purchase recommendations related to food services and school construction.

A motion was made to approve the consent calendar items, which included four purchase recommendations. These were related to food services management services, funded by the food service fund, and construction projects for the Woodward School connector and the new Elsa School.
New Elsa School Construction (00:18:20)
Details on the construction of the new El Sol School, including committee involvement and project excitement.

Ms. Karen Jackson, Director of Facilities Management, discussed the construction of the new El Sol School, highlighting the involvement of the design committee and the excitement surrounding the project. The groundbreaking ceremony was announced, and it was noted that the new building will take two years to complete.
Woodward School Renovation (00:20:18)
Renovation plans for Woodward School were presented, including connecting buildings and improving access.

Plans to renovate Woodward School were discussed, focusing on connecting the annex and main building to improve access and security. The renovations aim to preserve the historic structure while modernizing its facilities.
Purchase of New Buses (00:27:21)
The board discussed the purchase of new buses, including features like air conditioning.

Trustee questions and discussions about the purchase of new buses highlighted the importance of upgrading the fleet for safety and comfort. The new buses include features like air conditioning, which is beneficial for summer school and early school year temperatures.
Superintendent's Report (00:35:19)
The superintendent provided updates on summer programs, hiring, and community outreach events.

The superintendent reported on various initiatives including summer school plans, the summer food service program, community outreach events, and hiring initiatives. Updates on the groundbreaking ceremony for the new Elsa School were also shared.
Approval of Tax Levy Resolution (00:43:00)
The board approved the resolution for collecting taxes for school funding, essential for district finances.

The board discussed and approved a resolution authorizing the collection of taxes for funding school operations and repaying bond issues. The importance of property taxes for the district's financial stability was emphasized during the discussion.
Approval of Budget (00:46:19)
The board approved the budget for the next fiscal year, with discussions on revenue projections and state funding.

The budget for the upcoming fiscal year was approved after discussions on projected revenues, expenditures, and state funding. The process of budget preparation and its critical importance to district operations were highlighted, including the impact of state budget uncertainties.
Discussion of the Budget Award (00:51:39)
The board discussed the financial reporting award from ASPO, highlighting the balanced budget.

The meeting covered the annual financial reporting award received through ASPO, a prestigious recognition for excellence in financial reporting. The discussion highlighted the importance of the award, emphasizing that only a small percentage of recipients in the state achieve this honor. It was confirmed that the budget presented was balanced.
Voting on the Budget (00:52:23)
The board voted on the budget, with all trustees voting in favor, thus passing the budget.

Trustees voted on the proposed budget, with all members present voting 'yes'. The budget was successfully passed, allowing the board to move forward with the planned financial agenda.
Administrative Appointment (00:52:44)
Sally Divis was appointed as Principal of KILP and KVS following a thorough selection process.

The board recommended Sally Divis for the role of Principal at Kalamazoo Innovative Learning Program (KILP) and Kalamazoo Virtual School (KVS). Her appointment followed an extensive selection process, including internal and external job postings and multiple interviews. Ms. Divis holds a Bachelor's degree and two Master's degrees in education, with significant leadership experience.
Board Vote on Administrative Appointment (00:53:20)
The board voted unanimously to appoint Sally Divis as Principal, confirming her new position.

After discussion, the board unanimously voted to appoint Sally Divis to the position of Principal at KILP and KVS. Each trustee expressed their support, and the decision was met with congratulations from the board.
Comments by Trustees (00:55:04)
Trustees made comments about summer programs, teacher efforts, and community outreach.

Trustees discussed the importance of community programs such as 'Meet Up and Eat Up' events and summer outreach initiatives. They praised the ongoing efforts of teachers and staff over summer, emphasizing the significance of summer school in closing educational gaps. Trustees also encouraged community support and awareness during the summer holidays, urging safety and inclusion.