Kalamazoo Public Schools - August 21, 2025 Kalamazoo Public Schools Board of Education

Updated about 5 hours ago

In the Kalamazoo Public Schools Board Meeting, the board approves the agenda and discusses the replacement of aging school buses as a safety measure. Correspondence regarding concerns about newcomers and sanctuary schools is noted. The board highlights the importance of bond-supported funding for transportation and school facilities. New hires are welcomed, and the superintendent reports on the strategic plan and the upcoming school year. Public comments address concerns about email access and contract negotiations with the teachers' association. The meeting concludes with trustees expressing excitement for the new school year and acknowledging district staff efforts.

Chapters

Approval of Agenda (00:00:21)
The agenda for the meeting was approved with a motion and a second by the trustees.

A motion was made by Trustee Schola Barbara to accept the agenda, which was seconded by Trustee Hill. A roll call vote was conducted, with all trustees voting 'yes'. Secretary Hill was requested to take attendance.
Roll Call and Attendance (00:00:40)
All trustees and Dr. Slates were present at the meeting.

Secretary Hill confirmed that all trustees were present along with Dr. Slates.
Correspondence (00:00:50)
An email was received from Pearl Rojas Brown regarding concerns about newcomers and sanctuary schools.

Secretary Hill reported that a correspondence was received from Pearl Rojas Brown concerning issues about newcomers, children in the district, and sanctuary schools. Secretary Hill and Dr. Slate replied to the correspondence.
Consent Calendar Items (00:01:16)
Discussion on purchase recommendations for school bus operations and a motion to accept consent calendar items.

Ms. Kaser presented a purchase recommendation related to the replacement of school buses that have surpassed their useful life. The board discussed the importance of replacing these buses to ensure safe transportation for students. Trustee Schula Barbara and Trustee Hill praised the transportation department's efforts.
Superintendent's Report (00:06:52)
Superintendent Dr. Slates discussed the strategic plan, the start of the school year, and new safety measures.

Dr. Slates thanked staff and board members for their support and discussed the strategic plan's finalization. He announced the return of students and the implementation of weapon detectors in schools to enhance safety. Dr. Slates emphasized the importance of starting the school year with a focus on instruction.
Public Comments (00:15:20)
Public comments were made by union representatives expressing concerns about district policies and bargaining processes.

Several individuals, including Melena Gillespie and Randy Borden, addressed the board regarding concerns with the treatment of union members and the negotiation process for the school calendar. They highlighted issues such as email access during medical leave and the declaration of impasse in negotiations.
Comments by Trustees (00:28:31)
Trustees shared their experiences and comments regarding school events, staffing, and community engagement.

Trustee Peyton shared experiences from school events and praised innovative fundraising efforts. Trustee Schula Barbara celebrated the new school year and athletic achievements. Trustee McGlynn emphasized inclusivity and community engagement. Trustee Hill and Trustee Johnson also expressed excitement for the upcoming school year and thanked staff for their hard work.
Adjournment (00:38:14)
The meeting was adjourned following a motion to conclude the session.

President Harrison called for a motion to adjourn the meeting, which was seconded and approved by the trustees.
Discussion on Educational Events (00:38:40)
Discussion on educational events at Mount Zion and Young Kings and Queens, including free supplies and entertainment for students.

The meeting discussed educational events such as those at Mount Zion and the Young Kings and Queens events. These events provide students with free supplies like book bags and other materials they would otherwise need to purchase. Free entertainment is also provided, and parents are encouraged to attend to get their children prepared for the first day of school.
Motion to Adjourn (00:39:15)
A motion to adjourn the meeting was proposed by Trustee Johnson and seconded by Trustee McLinn.

At the end of the meeting, a motion to adjourn was made by Trustee Johnson and seconded by Trustee McLinn. The motion was voted on and approved, with all in favor and none opposed. The meeting was then adjourned.