The USD 470 Board of Education on Monday approved the creation of a Construction Manager at Risk committee to guide upcoming bond-funded facility projects after voters passed two bond questions in November 2025.
The approved measures include a $52.7 million bond for improvements at Arkansas City Middle School and other districtwide upgrades, along with a separate $14 million bond to build a new prekindergarten center.
The committee will consist of district staff, school leaders, and community members who will evaluate proposals and recommend partners for the next phase of construction tied to these projects.
Alongside bond planning, the board recognized the Arkansas City High School jazz band for earning state runner-up honors at the Kansas Bandmasters Association Championship. The board also honored several staff members as February Top DAWGS, including Maria Mendez of Adams Elementary, Sarah O’Donnell of ACHS, Deb Richardson of C-4, and Anna VanDyke of Transportation.
The board also received a presentation from Adams Elementary showcasing its fine arts program. Staff explained how music and arts programs help build student confidence, creativity, and teamwork. Students from the school’s after-school music exploration class also performed during the presentation.
In other action, the board approved continuing the Jobs for America’s Graduates program at ACHS for the upcoming school year. The program supports more than 100 students each year by helping them stay academically on track while developing career and life skills.
Regarding personnel matters, the board accepted the resignation of Cindymarie Townsed, reassigned Eric Swanson from assistant principal at Adams Elementary to a math teacher role at ACHS, and approved the hiring of Antonia Villa as an elementary principal.
Additional actions included accepting a $25 donation to the Warm Hearts Fund, renewing membership with the Kansas Association of School Boards, and approving a lease-purchase agreement to replace school buses.
The board also approved moving forward with a request for proposals for shade structures at the South Athletic Complex and the purchase of new laptops for staff as part of the district’s technology cycle.
Board members received updates on state legislation, including a proposed cell phone bill that may impact staff communication with students, as well as early budget projections for the 2026–2027 school year. They also reviewed options for replacing the Bulldog Stadium scoreboard.
The board discussed efforts to improve student attendance, noting progress across the district and reviewing a new staff attendance guide designed to ensure consistent practices.
The meeting concluded with executive sessions focused on non-elected personnel and negotiations.