Kalamazoo Public Schools - August 20, 2026 Board of Education Meeting

Updated about 16 hours ago

In the August 20, 2026 Kalamazoo Public Schools Board Meeting, the board reviewed correspondence, focusing on safety concerns at the new El Sol school entrance, discussion on an asbestos abatement project at Northglade Montessori, and Superintendent Dr. Slade reported on school readiness and new teacher orientation, applauding the HR department's efforts. Upcoming community events, including back-to-school ice cream socials and the Northside Ministerial Alliance's anti-gun violence carnival, are highlighted.

Chapters

Welcome and Call to Order (00:00:03)
The meeting was called to order with a welcome to all attendees, setting the stage for the evening's discussions.

The chairperson welcomed everyone to the meeting and officially called the meeting to order.
Pledge of Allegiance (00:00:06)
The meeting commenced with the Pledge of Allegiance, a tradition to honor the nation.

Attendees stood and recited the Pledge of Allegiance to show respect and unity.
Approval of Agenda (00:00:28)
The agenda for the meeting was presented and approved by the trustees with a roll call vote.

A motion was made to accept the agenda, seconded, and then approved with all trustees voting in favor.
Roll Call (00:00:48)
A roll call was conducted to confirm the presence of all trustees and the superintendent.

Trustee McLinn confirmed that all trustees and Dr. Slade, the superintendent, were present at the meeting.
Correspondence (00:00:56)
Several emails were received from the community addressing various concerns and suggestions.

Emails were received regarding the new El Sol traffic entrance, district cell phone policy, staff concerns, the refugee luncheon, and the anti-bullying policy.
Consent Calendar (00:02:10)
The consent calendar was presented and approved, including a purchase recommendation.

Trustees approved the consent calendar which included a purchase recommendation for asbestos abatement.
Discussion on Asbestos Abatement (00:02:28)
Trustees discussed the asbestos abatement project, addressing the scope and future needs.

Trustee Murphy inquired about remaining buildings with asbestos, and Ms. Jackson provided details on current and future abatement efforts.
Superintendent's Report (00:04:27)
An update was given on school preparations, new teacher orientation, and community outreach efforts.

The superintendent detailed the readiness efforts for the new school year, including new teacher training and community engagement initiatives.
Public Comments (00:09:50)
A resident expressed concerns about traffic safety near the new school construction and proposed a solution.

Judy Elzinga, a resident near the new El Sol school construction, raised concerns about traffic safety and proposed installing a restricted access gate.
Trustee Comments (00:13:00)
Trustees shared comments on various topics, welcoming new teachers and thanking community partners.

Trustees expressed gratitude to new teachers, community organizations, and discussed recent events and professional development experiences.
Adjournment (00:24:15)
The meeting was adjourned following a motion and vote by the trustees.

A motion to adjourn was made, seconded, and approved by all trustees, concluding the meeting.