Kalamazoo Public Schools - November 20, 2025 Board of Education Meeting

Updated 2 days ago

The Kalamazoo Public Schools Board Meeting held on November 15, 2023, at Edison Academy, included recognitions of student achievements, including students from Edison Academy and Maple Street Magnet School for the Arts. Principal Dr. Julie McDonald presented on Edison's educational strategies. The board approved the sale of a landlocked parcel to the Ecumenical Senior Center for expansion purposes. Superintendent Slade highlighted district initiatives, including improved student Attendance and the Bronco Buds program with Western Michigan University. The meeting also addressed community engagement and upcoming events.

Chapters

Welcome and Call to Order (00:00:05)
The meeting was called to order, and it began with a welcome and the Pledge of Allegiance.

The meeting commenced with a welcome from the chair, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag of the United States.
Approval of Agenda (00:00:36)
A motion to accept the agenda was made and seconded, followed by a roll call vote where all trustees voted yes.

The agenda was presented for approval. A motion was made by Trustee Schola Barber and seconded by Vice Chair McGlynn. A roll call vote was conducted, and all trustees present voted in favor of accepting the agenda.
Student Recognitions (00:01:01)
Students from Edison Academy and Maple Street Magnet School for the Arts were recognized for their achievements.

The principal of Edison Academy introduced six fifth graders recognized for achievement, attitude, and attendance. Additionally, student athletes from Maple Street Magnet School for the Arts were acknowledged for winning the KPS City championships. Each student received certificates and recognition for their efforts and achievements.
Roll Call (00:07:38)
Roll call was conducted, confirming all trustees and Dr. Slate were present.

Secretary Hill took roll call, confirming the presence of all trustees and Dr. Slate at the meeting.
Committee Reports (00:07:50)
Various committee reports were presented, including Governance, Community Relations, and Operations.

Reports from several committees were shared. Governance is reviewing district policies, Community Relations discussed community engagement and support for a Christmas event, and Operations provided updates on their activities. Additional details were provided about the academic excellence and CIS activities.
Correspondence (00:13:17)
Secretary Hill read the correspondence received from the public, addressing various issues.

Four pieces of correspondence were received and read. Topics included a proposal for the ballot, field trip costs, concerns at King Westwood, and notes from a previous school board speaker. Responses were provided by Dr. Slate and Secretary Hill.
Consent Calendar (00:14:15)
The consent calendar was approved, including seven purchase recommendations funded by various sources.

The consent calendar included seven purchase recommendations, covering items such as furniture and equipment for district facilities. Funding sources included bond proceeds and grants. Discussion focused on the importance of bond funding and the specific uses of the funds.
Reports and Recommendations (00:21:11)
Dr. McDonald presented on initiatives at Edison Academy, highlighting programs like Capturing Kids' Hearts and Kagan Cooperative Learning.

Dr. McDonald shared a detailed presentation about the educational initiatives at Edison Academy, including Capturing Kids' Hearts and Kagan Cooperative Learning. These programs aim to enhance student engagement, improve academic outcomes, and foster a positive school culture. The presentation included testimonials from staff and students about the effectiveness of these programs.
Morning Activities at Edison (00:35:48)
The meeting started with a description of morning activities at Edison school, including gym gatherings, breathing exercises, and attendance incentives.

The meeting described various morning activities at Edison school. Students gather in the gym every morning where they engage in activities such as Kagan silly sports and games, breathing exercises, and are reminded of AAA expectations. Students with perfect attendance receive a golden ticket for a chance to win a tablet. Teachers and staff use a common language and methods like Kagan Cooperative learning to promote engagement and mutual respect among students.
Leadership Program Recognition (00:40:11)
Recognition was given to district staff participating in a leadership program aspiring to become principals and coordinators.

Recognition was given to staff members of the district who are participating in a leadership program. These individuals aspire to become principals, assistant principals, and coordinators within the district. The program involves meeting once a month after work, demonstrating their dedication to leadership development.
Bronco Bus Program (00:40:49)
The Bronco Bus program invited all ninth-grade students to Western Michigan University to experience college life and promote higher education aspirations.

The Bronco Bus program, which was reinstated after a hiatus due to COVID, invited all ninth-grade students from the district to visit Western Michigan University. The event aims to encourage students to consider higher education by exposing them to college life, including tours and activities on campus. The program highlights the district's commitment to promoting college attendance and utilizing the Kalamazoo Promise.
Community Wellness Event (00:42:17)
A community wellness event was held, providing coats, food, and clothing to attendees as part of the district's community support initiatives.

A wellness event was hosted at Lloyd Nor, organized by Dr. Dewey, Ms. Saunders, and the student support team. The event offered free coats, food, and clothing to community members and was one of the most attended events of the year. It highlighted the district's efforts to support the community and was a team effort involving various departments, including food services and transportation.
Ugly Sweater Party Fundraiser (00:43:31)
An annual ugly sweater party fundraiser is organized by Communities In Schools, with participation from KPS to raise funds for student support.

The annual ugly sweater party, organized by Communities In Schools (CIS), serves as a fundraiser supporting student needs, such as providing warm winter wear. Participants can vote for their favorite ugly sweater online, and funds raised go back into student support programs. KPS participated last year and achieved second place, and this year is competing again with a new sweater design.
Thanksgiving Schedule and Community Support (00:44:57)
The meeting provided a schedule for the Thanksgiving holiday and encouraged community support for those in need during the festive season.

The meeting included announcements regarding the schedule for the Thanksgiving holiday, with no school or county programs on Wednesday and all schools and offices closed on Thursday and Friday. Attendees were encouraged to check on neighbors and support community members who might be experiencing grief or loss during the holiday season.
Sale of Land to Ecumenical Senior Center (00:47:00)
The board approved the sale of a landlocked parcel to the Ecumenical Senior Center for the construction of a new facility.

The board discussed and approved the resolution to sell a vacant landlocked parcel of real property to the Ecumenical Senior Center. The sale will enable the construction of a new expanded senior center. The purchase price is comparable to the appraised value, and the resolution allows the Superintendent or CFO to execute the necessary documents for the sale.
Trustee Comments and Community Acknowledgments (00:48:49)
Trustees shared comments and acknowledged community events, student achievements, and support for community organizations.

Trustees provided comments acknowledging various community events, student achievements, such as sports and arts programs, and the support of community organizations like Communities In Schools. They highlighted the importance of community engagement, student participation in programs, and the need for community support during the holiday season. The trustees also expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve and encouraged kindness and support for those in need.
Executive Session (01:01:00)
The board moved to convene in a closed session to discuss a student-related matter as per the Open Meetings Act.

The board voted to enter a closed session pursuant to section 8B of the Open Meetings Act to consider a student-related matter involving dismissal, suspension, or discipline, as requested by the student or their guardian. The board indicated they would not return to open session after the closed session.

Kalamazoo Public Schools (13 Episodes)

Updated 2 days ago

Board of Education Meetings