The Hancock-Henderson Quill, Inc.
The La Harpe Community School District #347 Board of Education convened for its regular meeting on June 24, in the district’s boardroom.
President Dustin Detherage led the meeting, which began at 6:00 p.m. with a moment of silence. Board members Dowell, Deitrich, Burt, Gebhardt, Detherage, and Walker were present; Blythe was absent.
Superintendent Janet Gladu, Board Secretary Liz McCarter, Principal Ryan Hopper, and several community members, including Architect Jacques Reynolds, attended.
Key Actions and Discussions
Consent Agenda and Minutes Approval
The board approved the consent agenda, which included the May 20, 2025, meeting minutes (amended to include a paragraph proposed by Burt), financial reports, payment of bills, acceptance of Haley Dixon’s resignation, an audit engagement letter, deletion of closed session recordings older than 18 months, and FOIA requests.
The motion passed 6-0. The amended May minutes were also approved unanimously.
Public Hearing on Building Bonds
A public hearing was held to discuss the proposed sale of $3.9 million in building bonds to fund an addition to La Harpe Elementary/Junior High School, as well as repairs and site improvements.
Board members debated whether to opt for a 20-year bond with a slight tax increase or a 25-year bond with no increase, noting that interest rate details would not be available until the bonds are sold.
No public comments or written testimony were received. The hearing concluded at 6:07 p.m. with a unanimous vote.
Cafeteria Addition Design Presentation
Architect Jacques Reynolds presented the schematic design for a new cafeteria addition, estimated at $3.9 million ($450 per square foot).
The design accommodates 170 students, includes windows, adequate storage, and an elevated delivery platform. The board discussed delivery logistics, with Detherage suggesting unloading from the road to avoid issues with the platform’s proximity.
Superintendent Gladu requested separating costs for window film, communication systems, and fire alarms, as these could be funded separately. The board agreed to finalize the bond term (20 or 25 years) at the July meeting after further review.
Amended 2024-2025 Budget
Superintendent Gladu presented the amended 2024-2025 budget, noting the district successfully reduced reserves through purchases like new desks, chairs, floor mats, a camera system, two buses, and a minivan.
The district ended the year in the positive, with some grant payments still pending. Administrative costs increased by only 1%, within the 5% annual limit. The budget was approved 6-0.
Fuel Bids and Bus Disposition
The board accepted a fuel bid from West Central FS for the 2025-2026 school year at $2.455 per gallon (firm) for unleaded fuel, passing 6-0.
Two bids for a bus disposition ($800 and $500) were rejected after discussion about higher scrap value and nearly new tires, which could be repurposed.
The board opted to explore scrap pricing and repost the bus with a minimum bid or consider donating it to the fire department for training.
Policy and Handbook Updates
The board unanimously approved updates to district policies and the 2025-2026 Student Handbook, aligning with state and federal laws.
Changes included sections on equal education opportunities, student absences, vandalism, medication, counseling, and harassment, among others.
Solar Project Lease Review
The board discussed a proposed solar project on Johnson Ground, in collaboration with the La Harpe City Council.
The project could generate significant revenue for the district, but concerns arose about legal costs.
After debate, the board voted 4-2 to have the district’s legal counsel review the solar lease agreement, with Burt and Dowell dissenting.
Reports and Updates
Board Committees: Detherage reported progress in contract negotiations, aiming for completion by the school year’s start.
Board Members: Dowell requested turning off school parking lot lights during July 4th fireworks, and Gladu agreed to follow up.
Burt inquired about job applicants, with Gladu noting several for a paraprofessional position but none for a special education role, though contingency plans are in place.
Principal/Transportation/Athletic Director: Hopper highlighted a successful 8th-grade graduation, praising student growth and staff commitment. Baseball tryouts were scheduled for August 4-5, and transportation updates included a driver refresher course on July 10.
Superintendent: Gladu announced Amy Simmons as Team Member of the Year and discussed a potential athletic co-op with Dallas City, with a meeting proposed for late July.
The meeting adjourned at 6:56 p.m. with a voice vote. The next meeting will include further discussion on the cafeteria addition and bond terms.
This information was taken from the June 24 minutes approved at the July 15 meeting. The next board meeting is scheduled for August 19 at 6 p.m. in the district boardroom.