Emporia Public Schools Hosts First Cost Containment Team Meeting

Emporia Public Schools Hosts First Cost Containment Team Meeting

Emporia, Kansas, Emporia Public Schools held the first meeting of its Cost Containment Team on Tuesday evening to begin reviewing district data and exploring strategies to maximize resources while maintaining high-quality educational experiences for all students.

Dr. David McGehee, Superintendent, opened the meeting with an overview of the team’s purpose and structure. The Cost Containment Team will meet regularly over the coming months to examine key district trends, discuss opportunities for efficiencies, and develop recommendations to share with district leadership and the Board of Education.

During the first meeting, Ms. Sheryl Leeds, Interim Assistant Superintendent of Teaching, Learning and Student Services, presented a detailed review of enrollment trends over time, highlighting major community events that have influenced enrollment as well as declining birth rates in both Kansas and Emporia. The presentation also noted that the September 20th headcount has gradually declined in recent years, reflecting changes in student enrollment patterns across the district.

Dr. Erica Mickelson, Director of Human Resources, shared information about how enrollment compares to district staffing levels, providing a breakdown by academic level and by building. Her presentation helped the team better understand how staffing aligns with current enrollment and where adjustments might be needed in the future.

Mr. Lyndel Landgren, Director of Communication and Marketing, provided a review of the 2019 Bond Issue, outlining past investments in district facilities and learning environments. Mr. Josh Swartz, Interim Assistant Superintendent of Business/Operations, followed with an overview of district funding as it relates to enrollment, explaining how revenue and expenses align and providing a breakdown of costs by category to illustrate the district’s overall financial picture.

Throughout the meeting, team members reflected on the information presented and shared insights about how these trends and data points connect to the district’s long-term planning. The USD 253 Administration Team will address any questions or additional information needed between meetings.

The meeting concluded with remarks from Dr. McGehee, who thanked the group for their participation and emphasized the importance of collaborative problem-solving as the Cost Containment Team continues its work in the months ahead.