OLIVE BRANCH, Miss. — A Hutchinson woman was killed and another man was injured in a single-vehicle accident in Mississippi on Tuesday.

The Mississippi Highway Patrol identified the victim as 35-year-old Cynthia Teeter. MHP says Teeter was a passenger in a car driven by 28-year-old Aaron Corkill, also of Hutchinson.&nbsp;

Reports say Corkill was going east on I-22 near the I-269 interchange when his SUV left the road and struck a bridge pillar.

Teeter was pronounced dead at the scene. Corkill was transported by EMS to Region One Medical Center in Memphis, Tennessee. He’s listed in serious condition. The cause of the crash is still under investigation.

The accident happened around 11 a.m. about five miles south of Olive Branch, Mississippi, or about 40 miles southeast of Memphis.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627501099901.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy of Bob Bakken, DeSoto County News." />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of Bob Bakken, DeSoto County News.</figcaption>
 </figure>By ROD ZOOKHutch PostOLIVE BRANCH, Miss. — A Hutchinson woman was killed and another man was injured in a single-vehicle accident in Mississippi on Tuesday.The Mississippi Highway Patrol identified the victim as 35-year-old Cynthia Teeter. MHP says Teeter was a passenger in a car driven by 28-year-old Aaron Corkill, also of Hutchinson.&nbsp;Reports say Corkill was going east on I-22 near the I-269 interchange when his SUV left the road and struck a bridge pillar.Teeter was pronounced dead at the scene. Corkill was transported by EMS to Region One Medical Center in Memphis, Tennessee. He’s listed in serious condition. The cause of the crash is still under investigation.The accident happened around 11 a.m. about five miles south of Olive Branch, Mississippi, or about 40 miles southeast of Memphis.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Hutchinson woman killed in Mississippi vehicle accident


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt's office is continuing to advocate for legislative intent when it comes to Senate Bill 40, the bill that changed the state's emergency management act.

"The Legislature wrote the emergency management act, the legislature then amended the emergency management act," Schmidt said. "The court doesn't agree with the amendments and won't allow them to go into effect. We're going to appeal this decision to the Kansas Supreme Court, probably later this week. We think the legislature wrote the law and has the power to amend it."

Schmidt notes that his office doesn't know exactly how far Johnson County District Judge David Hauber's ruling really goes.

"One of the issues here is that there was only one provision in the changes to the emergency management act that was in dispute as part of this lawsuit," Schmidt said. "Yet, the court's decision appears to be sweeping. We're having a little bit of trouble understanding just how broad the decision is. We've read it, obviously, many times and we can't tell from the language whether the court invalidated only that one provision that the parents and the school district were fighting about, or whether the court invalidated the entire emergency management act or something in the middle."

The emergency management act covers many different kinds of emergencies, not just those related to COVID-19.

"Our first responders, our emergency responders, citizens in our communities need to know how much of that law is in effect, what tools they have in their toolbox," Schmidt said. "This court decision has really muddied the waters on that, so we're trying to get a fast clarification from the Supreme Court."

It's especially important for the state's school districts to know how much of the act is in effect, as school starts around the state in just a couple of weeks.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583409290272.jpeg" alt="Kansas AG Derek Schmidt" />
 <figcaption>Kansas AG Derek Schmidt</figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt's office is continuing to advocate for legislative intent when it comes to Senate Bill 40, the bill that changed the state's emergency management act."The Legislature wrote the emergency management act, the legislature then amended the emergency management act," Schmidt said. "The court doesn't agree with the amendments and won't allow them to go into effect. We're going to appeal this decision to the Kansas Supreme Court, probably later this week. We think the legislature wrote the law and has the power to amend it."Schmidt notes that his office doesn't know exactly how far Johnson County District Judge David Hauber's ruling really goes."One of the issues here is that there was only one provision in the changes to the emergency management act that was in dispute as part of this lawsuit," Schmidt said. "Yet, the court's decision appears to be sweeping. We're having a little bit of trouble understanding just how broad the decision is. We've read it, obviously, many times and we can't tell from the language whether the court invalidated only that one provision that the parents and the school district were fighting about, or whether the court invalidated the entire emergency management act or something in the middle."The emergency management act covers many different kinds of emergencies, not just those related to COVID-19."Our first responders, our emergency responders, citizens in our communities need to know how much of that law is in effect, what tools they have in their toolbox," Schmidt said. "This court decision has really muddied the waters on that, so we're trying to get a fast clarification from the Supreme Court."It's especially important for the state's school districts to know how much of the act is in effect, as school starts around the state in just a couple of weeks.

Schmidt: Appeal will happen this week on Senate Bill 40 court case


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The Board of Reno County Commissioners made clear Tuesday there is a specific course of action they want the public to take to prevent further spread of COVID-19.

"It seems like everybody that has the vaccine is handling it very well and has not been in the hospital," said commissioner Daniel Friesen. "It seems like the government has created the right opportunity for people to protect themselves. I'm not sure I agree that the government should be involved in other restrictions, given you have the opportunity to keep yourself out of the hospital, simply by getting the vaccine."

It is with that spirit that the commission would like to set its own parameters for when restrictions are put in place in the county and not just take the approach of completely following KDHE guidance, which is subject to change based on statewide trends. Health Department director Karla Nichols noted that it's likely that guidance will change anyway soon.

"KDHE told us yesterday they are still looking at updated guidance before school starts," Nichols said Tuesday. "They are telling us it is still under review. They will probably be updating it in the next couple of weeks."

The commissioners want to get out in front of the issue if at all possible, though, so they are asking the Health Department to give them something to consider at their next meeting.

"We should take care of ourselves," Friesen said. "They're trying to apply one policy across the entire state. That clearly didn't work last time and probably won't work this time. I think we need to take your recommendations, take the health department's recommendations. They need to bring them to us and as the county board of public health, we need to make our own decision."

The commissioners had a consensus that they want to see Reno County specific recommendations. Their next meeting is August 10.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1624541123020.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The Board of Reno County Commissioners made clear Tuesday there is a specific course of action they want the public to take to prevent further spread of COVID-19."It seems like everybody that has the vaccine is handling it very well and has not been in the hospital," said commissioner Daniel Friesen. "It seems like the government has created the right opportunity for people to protect themselves. I'm not sure I agree that the government should be involved in other restrictions, given you have the opportunity to keep yourself out of the hospital, simply by getting the vaccine."It is with that spirit that the commission would like to set its own parameters for when restrictions are put in place in the county and not just take the approach of completely following KDHE guidance, which is subject to change based on statewide trends. Health Department director Karla Nichols noted that it's likely that guidance will change anyway soon."KDHE told us yesterday they are still looking at updated guidance before school starts," Nichols said Tuesday. "They are telling us it is still under review. They will probably be updating it in the next couple of weeks."The commissioners want to get out in front of the issue if at all possible, though, so they are asking the Health Department to give them something to consider at their next meeting."We should take care of ourselves," Friesen said. "They're trying to apply one policy across the entire state. That clearly didn't work last time and probably won't work this time. I think we need to take your recommendations, take the health department's recommendations. They need to bring them to us and as the county board of public health, we need to make our own decision."The commissioners had a consensus that they want to see Reno County specific recommendations. Their next meeting is August 10.

Commission: Get vaccine, we'll limit restrictions

BUHLER, Kan. — The Buhler City Council approved the 2022 budget and will hold a public hearing on the numbers August 12.

The budget for the year totals $1,787,990 on total taxes levied of $358,721.

With that the city will stay at the revenue neutral mark of 49.318 mills.

The budget increases came in the form of a $4,000 increase in employee benefits and a $103,000 increase in the general fund. There was also a small increase in the budget for the library.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The August public hearing is at 7 p.m. at the Buhler City offices.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579535694180.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By ROD ZOOKHutch PostBUHLER, Kan. — The Buhler City Council approved the 2022 budget and will hold a public hearing on the numbers August 12.The budget for the year totals $1,787,990 on total taxes levied of $358,721.With that the city will stay at the revenue neutral mark of 49.318 mills.The budget increases came in the form of a $4,000 increase in employee benefits and a $103,000 increase in the general fund. There was also a small increase in the budget for the library.&nbsp;&nbsp;The August public hearing is at 7 p.m. at the Buhler City offices.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Buhler City Council approves preliminary budget


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Dr. Scott Pauly with the Hutchinson Clinic wants to be sure that potential COVID-19 patients know that there are really multiple strategies to help battle the virus.

"I would like people to reconsider their immunization status if they haven't chosen to get immunized yet, because that really and truly is the ultimate fix for all of this," Pauly said. "The mask is really just a temporary fix to slow the transmission and avoid overwhelming the ERs and hospitals."

However, if you think you're sick, you should get tested. There is a therapy that works.

"These are monoclonal antibodies, typically administered by IV infusion," Pauly said. "We started using them in the mid-fall last year with early but promising studies. Over the last six to seven months, those studies have grown more robust and have shown us that they're even better than we initially thought. Typically, with a reduction in hospitalization and death in the high-risk cohort of 70% and upwards."

The treatments are so effective that Pauly wishes the CDC would say more about them, but really it comes down to three strategies.

"The vaccines really are the most important thing and I wish everybody would get them," Pauly said. "After that, you use things like masking to help slow the transmission, because this is going to get really, really bad here, really quick. If you do get it and there's a level of, possibly regret for how you got it, put that aside. Get tested as soon as you can. If you're positive, get evaluated for the monoclonal antibodies. If we get to that point, interrupting your condition and illness then to avoid additional progression to hospitalization and death will be our last option."

Pauly wants to continue to spread the message about the antibody infusion so that more places in Kansas can use it effectively, should they have a continued spike in cases.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1601667424562.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Dr. Scott Pauly with the Hutchinson Clinic wants to be sure that potential COVID-19 patients know that there are really multiple strategies to help battle the virus."I would like people to reconsider their immunization status if they haven't chosen to get immunized yet, because that really and truly is the ultimate fix for all of this," Pauly said. "The mask is really just a temporary fix to slow the transmission and avoid overwhelming the ERs and hospitals."However, if you think you're sick, you should get tested. There is a therapy that works."These are monoclonal antibodies, typically administered by IV infusion," Pauly said. "We started using them in the mid-fall last year with early but promising studies. Over the last six to seven months, those studies have grown more robust and have shown us that they're even better than we initially thought. Typically, with a reduction in hospitalization and death in the high-risk cohort of 70% and upwards."The treatments are so effective that Pauly wishes the CDC would say more about them, but really it comes down to three strategies."The vaccines really are the most important thing and I wish everybody would get them," Pauly said. "After that, you use things like masking to help slow the transmission, because this is going to get really, really bad here, really quick. If you do get it and there's a level of, possibly regret for how you got it, put that aside. Get tested as soon as you can. If you're positive, get evaluated for the monoclonal antibodies. If we get to that point, interrupting your condition and illness then to avoid additional progression to hospitalization and death will be our last option."Pauly wants to continue to spread the message about the antibody infusion so that more places in Kansas can use it effectively, should they have a continued spike in cases.

Dr. Pauly: Monoclonal antibodies work, but vaccine works best

Release from Hutchinson Fire on trench collapse:

On Tuesday July 27th at 1717 hours, the Hutchinson Fire Department was dispatched for a trench rescue incident at 1707 East Blanchard Avenue. 

First arriving fire units found a 24-year-old male buried up to his waist in a 12’x12’x8’ deep hole that had collapsed on him. The individual was buried in a wet slurry mix and was unable to extricate himself. Fire crews immediately requested mutual aid from Newton and Sedgwick County Fire Departments due to the high heat and labor-intensive operations.

The individual was in the hole replacing a 4-inch sewer line when the collapse occurred. It took fire crews 3 hours and 12 minutes to safely extricate the individual from the hole. No other injuries occurred. 

Fire crews battled a low ground water table which in turn had created a large amount of water seeping into the collapsed hole. Fire crews worked in 30-minute shifts, were then rehydrated, and placed back in the work rotation to keep crews fresh. Once extricated, the individual was transported by Reno County EMS to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center. Injuries are unknown at this time.

The Hutchinson Fire Department was assisted by the Reno County 911 Dispatch Center, Hutchinson Police Department, South Hutchinson Police Departments Light Trailer, Newton Fire Department, Sedgwick County Fire Department, Reno County EMS, City of Hutchinson Department of Public Works, Reno County Emergency Management and Dig Rite of Hutchinson.

HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;Fire and rescue crews from Reno, Harvey and Sedgwick counties all responded to the scene of a man who was trapped in an 8-foot deep hole for more than three hours Tuesday evening in Hutchinson. 

According to Hutchinson Fire Chief Steve Beer, the man was working in a hole repairing a sewer line when it partially collapsed, pinning him against the sewer line around 5:14 p.m. Crews worked in teams of three during the entire rescue to help keep water out of the hole and attempted to free him. The man was freed around 8:45 p.m. and was taken to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center. His name was not released.&nbsp;

"This is the third rescue of this kind I've been a part of," Beer said. "Usually they don't turn out like this, we're usually trying to recover a body."

Beer noted the situation was made even more difficult with the very unstable sandy soil that is a part of this area. Crews from all three counties that are a part of the Region 5 Task Force were on the scene to assist, including the Sedgwick County Heavy Rescue unit and Reno County Emergency Management. 

We'll have more on Hutch Post as it becomes available.

___________________________________________

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A man was stuck in a large hole Tuesday evening at a mobile home park in Hutchinson.

Crews came out to the Creekside homes park to free the man shortly after he got stuck around 5:15. It took about 3 1/2 hours to free him.

Check Hutch Post for continuing updates on this situation.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to&nbsp;sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627436057484.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Release from Hutchinson Fire on trench collapse:On Tuesday July 27th at 1717 hours, the Hutchinson Fire Department was dispatched for a trench rescue incident at 1707 East Blanchard Avenue. First arriving fire units found a 24-year-old male buried up to his waist in a 12’x12’x8’ deep hole that had collapsed on him. The individual was buried in a wet slurry mix and was unable to extricate himself. Fire crews immediately requested mutual aid from Newton and Sedgwick County Fire Departments due to the high heat and labor-intensive operations.The individual was in the hole replacing a 4-inch sewer line when the collapse occurred. It took fire crews 3 hours and 12 minutes to safely extricate the individual from the hole. No other injuries occurred. Fire crews battled a low ground water table which in turn had created a large amount of water seeping into the collapsed hole. Fire crews worked in 30-minute shifts, were then rehydrated, and placed back in the work rotation to keep crews fresh. Once extricated, the individual was transported by Reno County EMS to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center. Injuries are unknown at this time.The Hutchinson Fire Department was assisted by the Reno County 911 Dispatch Center, Hutchinson Police Department, South Hutchinson Police Departments Light Trailer, Newton Fire Department, Sedgwick County Fire Department, Reno County EMS, City of Hutchinson Department of Public Works, Reno County Emergency Management and Dig Rite of Hutchinson.UPDATE HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;Fire and rescue crews from Reno, Harvey and Sedgwick counties all responded to the scene of a man who was trapped in an 8-foot deep hole for more than three hours Tuesday evening in Hutchinson. According to Hutchinson Fire Chief Steve Beer, the man was working in a hole repairing a sewer line when it partially collapsed, pinning him against the sewer line around 5:14 p.m. Crews worked in teams of three during the entire rescue to help keep water out of the hole and attempted to free him. The man was freed around 8:45 p.m. and was taken to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center. His name was not released.&nbsp;"This is the third rescue of this kind I've been a part of," Beer said. "Usually they don't turn out like this, we're usually trying to recover a body."Beer noted the situation was made even more difficult with the very unstable sandy soil that is a part of this area. Crews from all three counties that are a part of the Region 5 Task Force were on the scene to assist, including the Sedgwick County Heavy Rescue unit and Reno County Emergency Management. We'll have more on Hutch Post as it becomes available.___________________________________________HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A man was stuck in a large hole Tuesday evening at a mobile home park in Hutchinson.Crews came out to the Creekside homes park to free the man shortly after he got stuck around 5:15. It took about 3 1/2 hours to free him.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627435930452.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Check Hutch Post for continuing updates on this situation.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to&nbsp;sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.

Crews free man from hole in Hutchinson Tuesday evening

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County sales tax numbers continue to increase year-over-year for the month of July.

Total sales tax collected for July was $437,806, an increase of $23,000 from the same time last year. It’s also more than $17,000 higher than last month. Stronger shopping trends and inflation are keeping sales tax revenue ahead of last year's pace. Sale tax numbers for July reflect shopping for the month of May.

To date, the county has taken in $2,957,853 for the year, well ahead of last year's pace. It’s the sixth straight month sales tax revenue has topped $400,000. In 2020, the county eclipsed that mark a record seven times.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/8/1565223563029.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By ROD ZOOKHutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County sales tax numbers continue to increase year-over-year for the month of July.Total sales tax collected for July was $437,806, an increase of $23,000 from the same time last year. It’s also more than $17,000 higher than last month. Stronger shopping trends and inflation are keeping sales tax revenue ahead of last year's pace. Sale tax numbers for July reflect shopping for the month of May.To date, the county has taken in $2,957,853 for the year, well ahead of last year's pace. It’s the sixth straight month sales tax revenue has topped $400,000. In 2020, the county eclipsed that mark a record seven times.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Sales tax figures for July released

BUHLER, Kan. — Buhler USD 313 and its teachers have a new contract for the next school year. After teachers approved the contract when voting ending on Monday, the school board gave its nod to the contract during a special meeting Tuesday evening.

The total wage and benefit package is a 5.67% increase to teachers. Under the new agreement, teachers will see a $600 increase to the base salary and column movement, supplemental experience movement, and an additional $300 to supplemental base. The new contract includes insurance premium increases.

The board also approved changes in classified salary wages as presented and an overall 5.2% financial package increase. This includes wages and insurance premium increases, and the board administrative wage increase totaling 5.82% including wages and insurance premium increases.&nbsp;

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank"> CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584543839140.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By ROD ZOOKHutch PostBUHLER, Kan. — Buhler USD 313 and its teachers have a new contract for the next school year. After teachers approved the contract when voting ending on Monday, the school board gave its nod to the contract during a special meeting Tuesday evening.The total wage and benefit package is a 5.67% increase to teachers. Under the new agreement, teachers will see a $600 increase to the base salary and column movement, supplemental experience movement, and an additional $300 to supplemental base. The new contract includes insurance premium increases.The board also approved changes in classified salary wages as presented and an overall 5.2% financial package increase. This includes wages and insurance premium increases, and the board administrative wage increase totaling 5.82% including wages and insurance premium increases.&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank"> CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.

USD 313 approves new contract for next year

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The USD 308 Board of Education took time to further discuss the district’s work with RSP and possible solutions from the research it has gathered. RSP made the presentation to the board this past June, and the consulting firm and the Hutchinson Unified Superintendents Advisory Committee, or HUSAC, have been going over the data.&nbsp;

In the presentation, RSP talked about everything from enrollment, to housing, to where most of the current and future students live. The study was being done to see where the district may go in the future.&nbsp;

“We tried to get the board to give us some parameters and general thoughts,” Superintendent Mike Folks said. “Everything we talked about was just on the surface and nothing has been decided.”

While no action was taken during the meeting, many ideas were discussed, including use of buildings, student class size and keeping students close to their schools.

“I think the general consensus was to keep a neighborhood school concept, at least in our primary grades,” Folks said. “There was some discussion about having a plan, and maybe, a phase-in plan over several years of trying to move our early childhood programs . . . into our buildings instead of one centeralized location.”&nbsp;

There was also discussion about keeping kids in the same middle school building for both 7th and 8th grade.

“The board talked a little bit about middle schools and the possibility of looping in our middle schools,” Folks said. “I don’t know where that’s going to end up, but there was general support for that.”

Pre-K classes and meeting any transportation needs were also on the table Monday night. Some of the other things that have been discussed during the study include finding a way to move the 6th grade out of the elementary schools and what the district could do with the administrative offices.

No definitive conclusions were reached and it was clarified that any solutions from RSP’s study would not be implemented for the 2021-2022 school year. The next meeting between RSP and HUSAC is set for Sept. 1.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575668793667.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By ROD ZOOKHutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The USD 308 Board of Education took time to further discuss the district’s work with RSP and possible solutions from the research it has gathered. RSP made the presentation to the board this past June, and the consulting firm and the Hutchinson Unified Superintendents Advisory Committee, or HUSAC, have been going over the data.&nbsp;In the presentation, RSP talked about everything from enrollment, to housing, to where most of the current and future students live. The study was being done to see where the district may go in the future.&nbsp;“We tried to get the board to give us some parameters and general thoughts,” Superintendent Mike Folks said. “Everything we talked about was just on the surface and nothing has been decided.”While no action was taken during the meeting, many ideas were discussed, including use of buildings, student class size and keeping students close to their schools.“I think the general consensus was to keep a neighborhood school concept, at least in our primary grades,” Folks said. “There was some discussion about having a plan, and maybe, a phase-in plan over several years of trying to move our early childhood programs . . . into our buildings instead of one centeralized location.”&nbsp;There was also discussion about keeping kids in the same middle school building for both 7th and 8th grade.“The board talked a little bit about middle schools and the possibility of looping in our middle schools,” Folks said. “I don’t know where that’s going to end up, but there was general support for that.”Pre-K classes and meeting any transportation needs were also on the table Monday night. Some of the other things that have been discussed during the study include finding a way to move the 6th grade out of the elementary schools and what the district could do with the administrative offices.No definitive conclusions were reached and it was clarified that any solutions from RSP’s study would not be implemented for the 2021-2022 school year. The next meeting between RSP and HUSAC is set for Sept. 1.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

School board discusses RSP report

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson USD 308 School Board has given the go-ahead for students to start their own retail store inside Hutchinson High School.

The board gave the nod to the Hutchinson High School’s business students who want to sell booster club items plus apparel and other merchandise. Students from the business department will run it. The store will be located in A hall.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The store will be able to sell both to students and the public with a separate walk-up entrance.&nbsp;

The group voted to name the store Sammy's Shack.

Also Monday, the board approved replacing a rooftop HVAC unit at the high school and approved the joint support work with the Boys and Girls Club over the summer.

Finally, the board went into executive session to discuss personnel matters related to the ongoing negotiations between USD 308 and the local teachers union. The two sides will meet again on Aug. 11.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627428797530.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>By ROD ZOOKHutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson USD 308 School Board has given the go-ahead for students to start their own retail store inside Hutchinson High School.The board gave the nod to the Hutchinson High School’s business students who want to sell booster club items plus apparel and other merchandise. Students from the business department will run it. The store will be located in A hall.&nbsp;&nbsp;The store will be able to sell both to students and the public with a separate walk-up entrance.&nbsp;The group voted to name the store Sammy's Shack.Also Monday, the board approved replacing a rooftop HVAC unit at the high school and approved the joint support work with the Boys and Girls Club over the summer.Finally, the board went into executive session to discuss personnel matters related to the ongoing negotiations between USD 308 and the local teachers union. The two sides will meet again on Aug. 11.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.

New student-run business approved by board

HUTCHINSON, Kan. (AP) — A 31-year-old Kansas woman was sentenced to just over 5 years in prison for a crash that killed one person and injured six others. 

Viola Rhodes, 31,&nbsp; was sentenced Tuesday after pleading guilty in May to one count of involuntary manslaughter while intoxicated and six counts of aggravated battery. Rhodes was driving in December 2020 when her car went off a road and overturned, killing 44-year-old Brian Bookout. 

In exchange for her plea in May, prosecutors dropped a second-degree murder charge. Two other people in the car were hospitalized and four others were treated for injuries at the scene.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607530198056.jpeg" alt="Rhodes photo Reno Co." />
 <figcaption>Rhodes photo Reno Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. (AP) — A 31-year-old Kansas woman was sentenced to just over 5 years in prison for a crash that killed one person and injured six others. Viola Rhodes, 31,&nbsp; was sentenced Tuesday after pleading guilty in May to one count of involuntary manslaughter while intoxicated and six counts of aggravated battery. Rhodes was driving in December 2020 when her car went off a road and overturned, killing 44-year-old Brian Bookout. In exchange for her plea in May, prosecutors dropped a second-degree murder charge. Two other people in the car were hospitalized and four others were treated for injuries at the scene.---------

Hutchinson woman sentenced for fatal DUI crash 

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A 31-year-old Hutchinson woman who recently entered guilty pleas stemming from an accident that killed one person and injured several others was sentenced Tuesday afternoon in Reno County District Court.

Viola Rhodes was given 5 1/2 years in prison for a count of involuntary manslaughter while intoxicated and six 8-month sentences for aggravated battery. The sentences were ordered to run together so the final sentence was 5 1/2 years.

Rhodes pleaded guilty in May to involuntary manslaughter while driving under the influence and six counts of aggravated battery. In exchange, prosecutors agreed not to charge her with reckless second-degree murder.&nbsp;

In an emotional hearing, victims of the accident stood up and spoke about the night their friend and family member Brian Bookout was killed. They told of the accident in which Rhodes was said to have purposely jerked the wheel in retaliation for her passengers expressing concern that she was looking at her phone while driving. That action by Rhodes caused her to lose control of the SUV, resulting in the accident. Rhodes sat motionless with her eyes closed at times or staring straight ahead as the hearing went on. She did get up to speak, saying she was sorry to the family for what happened.

The defense argued for a departure of the sentence, asking for community corrections instead of prison time. The argument was that Rhodes had little criminal history other than a DUI in which she went through diversion. The defense also mentioned her family and work ethic as reasons for departing from the sentence. But District Attorney Tom Stanton argued that when Rhodes got the first DUI years ago, she should have learned her lesson and she didn't. Stanton also told judge Trish Rose that Rhodes will get to see her family again, Bookout won’t. With that, Rose denied the departure and handed down the mid-range sentence.&nbsp;

Rhodes was driving a van on Yoder Road Dec. 5, 2020, when the vehicle overturned, ejecting Bookout. Two passengers were taken to Hutchinson Regional and four others were treated by EMS at the scene.

By ROD ZOOKHutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — A 31-year-old Hutchinson woman who recently entered guilty pleas stemming from an accident that killed one person and injured several others was sentenced Tuesday afternoon in Reno County District Court.Viola Rhodes was given 5 1/2 years in prison for a count of involuntary manslaughter while intoxicated and six 8-month sentences for aggravated battery. The sentences were ordered to run together so the final sentence was 5 1/2 years.Rhodes pleaded guilty in May to involuntary manslaughter while driving under the influence and six counts of aggravated battery. In exchange, prosecutors agreed not to charge her with reckless second-degree murder.&nbsp;In an emotional hearing, victims of the accident stood up and spoke about the night their friend and family member Brian Bookout was killed. They told of the accident in which Rhodes was said to have purposely jerked the wheel in retaliation for her passengers expressing concern that she was looking at her phone while driving. That action by Rhodes caused her to lose control of the SUV, resulting in the accident. Rhodes sat motionless with her eyes closed at times or staring straight ahead as the hearing went on. She did get up to speak, saying she was sorry to the family for what happened.The defense argued for a departure of the sentence, asking for community corrections instead of prison time. The argument was that Rhodes had little criminal history other than a DUI in which she went through diversion. The defense also mentioned her family and work ethic as reasons for departing from the sentence. But District Attorney Tom Stanton argued that when Rhodes got the first DUI years ago, she should have learned her lesson and she didn't. Stanton also told judge Trish Rose that Rhodes will get to see her family again, Bookout won’t. With that, Rose denied the departure and handed down the mid-range sentence.&nbsp;Rhodes was driving a van on Yoder Road Dec. 5, 2020, when the vehicle overturned, ejecting Bookout. Two passengers were taken to Hutchinson Regional and four others were treated by EMS at the scene.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to&nbsp;sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.

Rhodes sentenced to 66 months

Hutchinson – In a joint session Tuesday, the Hutchinson City Council and the Reno County Commission met over lunch, along with Chief Jeffery Hooper, Sheriff Darrian Campbell, City Manager Jeff Cantrell and County Administrator Randy Partington. 

The topic of discussion was a firing range owned by the City which had been under lease by the County since its creation.

Chief Hooper and Sheriff Campbell explained the training needs that are not being met by the current facility, their importance to improving public safety, as well as the reasons they cannot be accomplished at the same facility. Both agencies then discussed their plans to expand training capabilities cooperatively with two unique firing ranges where both could continue to train together. 

One would be owned and operated by the Sheriff’s Office which would be geared towards long distance accuracy and tactical training appropriate for rural areas. The other would be at the current location, owned by the City and operated by the Hutchinson Police Department which would be used to train for urban engagements and de-escalation tactics. Both would be used cooperatively as the agencies continue to train together.

Both the City Council and the Commission were assured that these facilities could be built and maintained within existing budgets and would not create significant additional cost or duplication. Both the Chief and the Sheriff reiterated that the safety and security of the people of Hutchinson and Reno County are and will remain their top priority, and that they will always work together to ensure that service to the community is at the forefront.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626301510265.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hutchinson – In a joint session Tuesday, the Hutchinson City Council and the Reno County Commission met over lunch, along with Chief Jeffery Hooper, Sheriff Darrian Campbell, City Manager Jeff Cantrell and County Administrator Randy Partington. The topic of discussion was a firing range owned by the City which had been under lease by the County since its creation.Chief Hooper and Sheriff Campbell explained the training needs that are not being met by the current facility, their importance to improving public safety, as well as the reasons they cannot be accomplished at the same facility. Both agencies then discussed their plans to expand training capabilities cooperatively with two unique firing ranges where both could continue to train together. One would be owned and operated by the Sheriff’s Office which would be geared towards long distance accuracy and tactical training appropriate for rural areas. The other would be at the current location, owned by the City and operated by the Hutchinson Police Department which would be used to train for urban engagements and de-escalation tactics. Both would be used cooperatively as the agencies continue to train together.Both the City Council and the Commission were assured that these facilities could be built and maintained within existing budgets and would not create significant additional cost or duplication. Both the Chief and the Sheriff reiterated that the safety and security of the people of Hutchinson and Reno County are and will remain their top priority, and that they will always work together to ensure that service to the community is at the forefront.

Release issued on gun range issue after joint session

SOUTH HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Two more major bridge projects are coming in the near future in Reno County. The county commission approved two contracts with King Construction of Hesston to replace two major spans on Arlington Road starting next year.

The bid on the first bridge in the city of Arlington is $1,117,096. The 196 foot span over the Ninnescah River is being paid for with a combination of county funds and KDOT money. The county’s share of the cost is $558,548. The second bridge is located eight miles east of Arlington. The cost of&nbsp; that project is $820,054. The county’s share of the costs is $620,054. The rest of the funds for the project will come from the Kansas Local Bridge Improvement Program.

Public Works Director Don Brittain says work on the first bridge could start as early as January 2022 while construction of the second bridge is slated to begin in April. No date for completion was available. Britain also noted that both of the two bridge projects currently in the county continue to move along quickly.&nbsp;

The Nickerson Road Bridge over the Arkansas River just south of Nickerson is scheduled to open again in August. The 43rd Avenue bridge over the Union Pacific Railroad is also ahead of schedule and could open before the end of this year or early in 2022.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627414231934.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By ROD ZOOKHutch PostSOUTH HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Two more major bridge projects are coming in the near future in Reno County. The county commission approved two contracts with King Construction of Hesston to replace two major spans on Arlington Road starting next year.The bid on the first bridge in the city of Arlington is $1,117,096. The 196 foot span over the Ninnescah River is being paid for with a combination of county funds and KDOT money. The county’s share of the cost is $558,548. The second bridge is located eight miles east of Arlington. The cost of&nbsp; that project is $820,054. The county’s share of the costs is $620,054. The rest of the funds for the project will come from the Kansas Local Bridge Improvement Program.Public Works Director Don Brittain says work on the first bridge could start as early as January 2022 while construction of the second bridge is slated to begin in April. No date for completion was available. Britain also noted that both of the two bridge projects currently in the county continue to move along quickly.&nbsp;The Nickerson Road Bridge over the Arkansas River just south of Nickerson is scheduled to open again in August. The 43rd Avenue bridge over the Union Pacific Railroad is also ahead of schedule and could open before the end of this year or early in 2022.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.

Two major bridge projects on Arlington Rd. approved


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Board of Reno County Commissioners voted Tuesday to clarify that they are not paying for the Scott Blvd. bridge, but they are willing to help with anything they can not involving money. It is County Counselor Joe O' Sullivan's legal opinion that they can't pay for the bridge.

"There are three statutes that are used to fund county road and bridge maintenance and replacement, not only for bridges and roads on county roads, but also bridges on township roads and connecting link roads maintenance, which the statute makes the county's responsibility."

Nevertheless, the commission is okay with Public Works Director Don Brittain helping South Hutchinson as he has attempted to before, to do as much as they can without laying out any specific county funds for replacement.

"Don would contact engineers that he works with on the numerous bridges that we take care of every year, have them inspect the bridge from underneath to see if it needs to be replaced, or it could be repaired and get a cost estimate of what that would take to both repair and replace it," said County Administrator Randy Partington. "We would report that back to the mayor of South Hutchinson and then Chairman Hirst, to kind of keep him in the loop of what was going on."

Commissioners praised Brittain for his background work to explain the issues to them and to staff. Commission chair Ron Hirst said they will work together if the water project on Avenue F requires any stoppage in traffic, but it is still their intent to get equipment in and out and South Hutch city council members that met with Hirst and Partington Monday agreed.

"In case they get some machinery and equipment that has to temporarily turn or be there to do any boring, which I don't foresee," Hirst said. "It could happen that street would be down for a short period of time. The county can work with that."

Ron Sellers noted that even if they could give money toward the bridge, they wouldn't want to start having cities expect that, as Hutchinson alone has 66 bridges that it is responsible for that are not on connecting links.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1624541123020.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Board of Reno County Commissioners voted Tuesday to clarify that they are not paying for the Scott Blvd. bridge, but they are willing to help with anything they can not involving money. It is County Counselor Joe O' Sullivan's legal opinion that they can't pay for the bridge."There are three statutes that are used to fund county road and bridge maintenance and replacement, not only for bridges and roads on county roads, but also bridges on township roads and connecting link roads maintenance, which the statute makes the county's responsibility."Nevertheless, the commission is okay with Public Works Director Don Brittain helping South Hutchinson as he has attempted to before, to do as much as they can without laying out any specific county funds for replacement."Don would contact engineers that he works with on the numerous bridges that we take care of every year, have them inspect the bridge from underneath to see if it needs to be replaced, or it could be repaired and get a cost estimate of what that would take to both repair and replace it," said County Administrator Randy Partington. "We would report that back to the mayor of South Hutchinson and then Chairman Hirst, to kind of keep him in the loop of what was going on."Commissioners praised Brittain for his background work to explain the issues to them and to staff. Commission chair Ron Hirst said they will work together if the water project on Avenue F requires any stoppage in traffic, but it is still their intent to get equipment in and out and South Hutch city council members that met with Hirst and Partington Monday agreed."In case they get some machinery and equipment that has to temporarily turn or be there to do any boring, which I don't foresee," Hirst said. "It could happen that street would be down for a short period of time. The county can work with that."Ron Sellers noted that even if they could give money toward the bridge, they wouldn't want to start having cities expect that, as Hutchinson alone has 66 bridges that it is responsible for that are not on connecting links.

Commissioners won't pay for Scott Blvd. bridge, will help where they can


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The USD 308 Board of Education heard from leaders at Lincoln Elementary on the progress of their Redesign Launch during its regular meeting Monday (July 26, 2021).

The redesign team at Lincoln presented to the State Redesign team on May 21, 2021. They were approved to continue to move forward with their redesign prototypes. Lincoln’s redesign team shared their story and the impact of Redesign on their students and staff.

To close the meeting, the Board of Education discussed the district’s work with RSP, and possible solutions from the research they have gathered. No definitive conclusions were reached, and it was clarified that any solutions from RSP’s study would not be implemented for the 2021-2022 school year. Some of the issues discussed were enrollment, transportation and Pre-K education.

Also during Monday’s meeting, the Board:

Approved the Title I Agreement between USD 308, USD 309, and USD 313 for the 2021-22 FY

Approved the 7-12-21 Board Meeting minutes

Approved suggested dates for the 2021-22 Board meetings

Approved Treasurer’s Report – June 2021

Approved the Head Start Federal Award and Federal Financial Report

Approved June’s Boys &amp; Girls Club Support

Approved Cisco Firewall Licensing Renewal &amp; Board Cover 2021-22

Approved Greenbush HHS Roof Top Unit Replacement

Approved application for creation of Student Organization – HHS Salthawk Store

Approved Johnson Controls Service Renewal 2021-22

Approved Head Start – Horizons MOU 2021-22

Discussed progress on district’s work with RSP

The Board approved the following personnel changes for the district.

                                            Hired

Sidney Janzen, Teacher Assistant, Hutcherson Center, effective start of 2021-2022 school year

Maria Martinez, Title I Aide, Lincoln Elementary, effective start of 2021-2022 school year

Kim Duran, Resource Room Para, Trinity, effective start of 2021-2022 school year

Deborah Vieyra, F/T Substitute Nurse, District, effective start of 2021-2022 school year

Gail Cirkel, Resource Room Para, Holy Cross, effective start of 2021-2022 school year

Andrea Miller, CSS Para, Wiley Elementary, effective start of 2021-2022 school year

Elizabeth Pena Garza, Teacher Assistant – Sub, Hutcherson Center, effective start of 2021-2022 school year

Danella Diaz, Food Service Secretary, Graber Elementary, effective July 28, 2021

Aleyna Hernandez, Teacher Assistant, Hutcherson Center, effective start of 2021-2022 school year

Janelle Bloesser, Educational Aide, Wiley Elementary, effective start of 2021-2022 school year

Laurie Hinderliter, Custodian, Hutchinson Middle School 7, effective August 1, 2021

David Williams, BSS Para, McCandless Elementary, effective start of 2021-2022 school year

Noah Davis, Resource Room Para, McCandless Elementary, effective start of 2021-2022 school year

Claire Schreiner, Head STUCO Sponsor, Hutchinson Middle School 7, effective start of 2021-2022 school year

Emily Arterbum, Speech Language Pathologist, ESC, effective start of 2021-2022 school year

Jack Hawver, Assistant Coach Football, Hutchinson Middle School 7, effective start of 2021-2022 school year

Joshua Blanding, Long-Term Substitute Teacher for Grade 5, McCandless Elementary, effective start of 2021-2022 school year

Kylee Raleigh, Family and Community Engagement Manager, Hutcherson Center, effective June 30, 2021

Nathaniel Weaver, Night Custodian, Hutchinson Middle School 7, effective July 14, 2021

Alex Cruz, Building Para Substitute, Hutchinson Middle School 7, effective end of 2020-2021 school year

Elijah Bryant, Custodian, Hutchinson Middle School 7, effective July 14, 2021

Ashlee Orrison, Resource Room Para, Graber Elementary, effective end of 2020-2021 school year

Billie Loya, Lead Cook/Server, Hutchinson Middle School 7, effective end of 2020-2021 school year

Heidi Keller, CSS Para, Graber Elementary, effective end of 2020-2021 school yar

Amanda Enslinger, Elementary FS Manager, to FS Bookkeeper, effective July 29, 2021

Kyla Ewing, Daycare Assistant at Hutchinson High School, to Resource Room Para at Wiley Elementary, effective start of 2021-2022 school year

Lisa Jones, RR Para at Faris Elementary, to RR Para at Wiley Elementary, effective start of 2021-2022 school year

Angela Allen, Education Specialist at Hutcherson Center, to Head Start Teacher at Hutcherson Center, effective start of 2021-2022 school year

Robert Bledsoe, Grade 5 Teacher at McCandless Elementary, to STEM Teacher at McCandless Elementary, effective start of 2021-2022 school year

The next scheduled Board of Education meeting is Monday, August 9, 2021 at 6:00 p.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574794748723.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The USD 308 Board of Education heard from leaders at Lincoln Elementary on the progress of their Redesign Launch during its regular meeting Monday (July 26, 2021).The redesign team at Lincoln presented to the State Redesign team on May 21, 2021. They were approved to continue to move forward with their redesign prototypes. Lincoln’s redesign team shared their story and the impact of Redesign on their students and staff.To close the meeting, the Board of Education discussed the district’s work with RSP, and possible solutions from the research they have gathered. No definitive conclusions were reached, and it was clarified that any solutions from RSP’s study would not be implemented for the 2021-2022 school year. Some of the issues discussed were enrollment, transportation and Pre-K education.Also during Monday’s meeting, the Board:Approved the Title I Agreement between USD 308, USD 309, and USD 313 for the 2021-22 FYApproved the 7-12-21 Board Meeting minutesApproved suggested dates for the 2021-22 Board meetingsApproved Treasurer’s Report – June 2021Approved the Head Start Federal Award and Federal Financial ReportApproved June’s Boys &amp; Girls Club SupportApproved Cisco Firewall Licensing Renewal &amp; Board Cover 2021-22Approved Greenbush HHS Roof Top Unit ReplacementApproved Donor’s Choice grantApproved application for creation of Student Organization – HHS Salthawk StoreApproved Johnson Controls Service Renewal 2021-22Approved Head Start – Horizons MOU 2021-22Discussed progress on district’s work with RSPPersonnel ReportThe Board approved the following personnel changes for the district. HiredSidney Janzen, Teacher Assistant, Hutcherson Center, effective start of 2021-2022 school yearMaria Martinez, Title I Aide, Lincoln Elementary, effective start of 2021-2022 school yearKim Duran, Resource Room Para, Trinity, effective start of 2021-2022 school yearDeborah Vieyra, F/T Substitute Nurse, District, effective start of 2021-2022 school yearGail Cirkel, Resource Room Para, Holy Cross, effective start of 2021-2022 school yearAndrea Miller, CSS Para, Wiley Elementary, effective start of 2021-2022 school yearElizabeth Pena Garza, Teacher Assistant – Sub, Hutcherson Center, effective start of 2021-2022 school yearDanella Diaz, Food Service Secretary, Graber Elementary, effective July 28, 2021Aleyna Hernandez, Teacher Assistant, Hutcherson Center, effective start of 2021-2022 school yearJanelle Bloesser, Educational Aide, Wiley Elementary, effective start of 2021-2022 school yearLaurie Hinderliter, Custodian, Hutchinson Middle School 7, effective August 1, 2021David Williams, BSS Para, McCandless Elementary, effective start of 2021-2022 school yearNoah Davis, Resource Room Para, McCandless Elementary, effective start of 2021-2022 school yearClaire Schreiner, Head STUCO Sponsor, Hutchinson Middle School 7, effective start of 2021-2022 school yearEmily Arterbum, Speech Language Pathologist, ESC, effective start of 2021-2022 school yearJack Hawver, Assistant Coach Football, Hutchinson Middle School 7, effective start of 2021-2022 school yearJoshua Blanding, Long-Term Substitute Teacher for Grade 5, McCandless Elementary, effective start of 2021-2022 school yearResignationsKylee Raleigh, Family and Community Engagement Manager, Hutcherson Center, effective June 30, 2021Nathaniel Weaver, Night Custodian, Hutchinson Middle School 7, effective July 14, 2021Alex Cruz, Building Para Substitute, Hutchinson Middle School 7, effective end of 2020-2021 school yearElijah Bryant, Custodian, Hutchinson Middle School 7, effective July 14, 2021Ashlee Orrison, Resource Room Para, Graber Elementary, effective end of 2020-2021 school yearBillie Loya, Lead Cook/Server, Hutchinson Middle School 7, effective end of 2020-2021 school yearHeidi Keller, CSS Para, Graber Elementary, effective end of 2020-2021 school yarPosition ChangesAmanda Enslinger, Elementary FS Manager, to FS Bookkeeper, effective July 29, 2021Kyla Ewing, Daycare Assistant at Hutchinson High School, to Resource Room Para at Wiley Elementary, effective start of 2021-2022 school yearLisa Jones, RR Para at Faris Elementary, to RR Para at Wiley Elementary, effective start of 2021-2022 school yearAngela Allen, Education Specialist at Hutcherson Center, to Head Start Teacher at Hutcherson Center, effective start of 2021-2022 school yearRobert Bledsoe, Grade 5 Teacher at McCandless Elementary, to STEM Teacher at McCandless Elementary, effective start of 2021-2022 school yearThe next scheduled Board of Education meeting is Monday, August 9, 2021 at 6:00 p.m.

Lincoln Elementary Presents Redesign Progress to Board of Education

HAVEN, Kan. — Haven USD 312 teachers have approved a new contract for the 2021-22 school year.

The teachers voted on the contract after the district and the union approved the agreement following a negotiation session earlier this month.

Under the proposed agreement teachers will see a 2.75% increase in pay. That will raise the starting base pay to $40,473 per year. The union was asking for a 3% increase while the board had countered with 2.5%.

With the teachers approval the contract now goes before the school board during their next agenda session August 9.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587053540131.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By ROD ZOOKHutch PostHAVEN, Kan. — Haven USD 312 teachers have approved a new contract for the 2021-22 school year.The teachers voted on the contract after the district and the union approved the agreement following a negotiation session earlier this month.Under the proposed agreement teachers will see a 2.75% increase in pay. That will raise the starting base pay to $40,473 per year. The union was asking for a 3% increase while the board had countered with 2.5%.With the teachers approval the contract now goes before the school board during their next agenda session August 9.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Haven teachers approve new contract


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Board of Reno County Commissioners voted unanimously Tuesday to put a vote before the public in November of 2021 to expand from three to five members. Ron Sellers thinks more voices are needed in the budget process.

"The County is not growing substantially," said commissioner Ron Sellers. "The tax base is not going to grow substantially. In the future, county commissioners are going to have to make the decisions on what priorities we're going to increase. Thus, if we increase some, we're going to have to decrease some. The budgeting process is going to get more complicated in the future than it has been in the past."

The intent of the commission is, if the voters want five commissioners, to communicate with the Governor that they want to elect those commissioners in November of 2022. There was still an open question as to if that changes the quorum requirements in the intervening months between the passing of the expansion and the voting on the two new commissioners. If so, that would mean that it would take all three current commissioners to constitute a quorum until the new commissioners are elected and seated. It was the opinion of both the county counselor and the county clerk that the quorum would change, but commissioners were still seeking clarification from legal counsel at the state level to make sure. The commissioners let GIS and elections staff decide which voting precincts are in which districts and <a href="https://reno.maps.arcgis.com/apps/MapSeries/index.html?appid=9c8504e9f72a470eb61b5fea98886e54">selected a map.</a>

"I don't think any of the three of us are trying to create any gerrymandering at all," Sellers said. "We're just trying to make five equal population districts out of this."

According to the resolution, Reno County shall be divided into five (5) commissioner districts and apportioned as follows:

Cities: Hutchinson Precincts 4, 8, 9, 10, 11, 24, 29 and 32

Cities: Hutchinson Precincts 1-H102, 1-H114, 2, 3 and 30 and

South Hutchinson Precincts 1, 2 and 3; and all of Abbyville, Arlington,

Langdon, Partridge, Plevna, Pretty Prairie, Sylvia and Turon

Townships: Albion Huntsville Roscoe Arlington Langdon Salt Creek Bell Lincoln Sylvia Castleton Loda Troy Center Medford Walnut Enterprise Miami Westminster Grove Plevna Hayes Reno South

Cities: Hutchinson 17, 23, 23 Exclave, 27, 28, 28 Exclave, 31 and 33 and all of Buhler

Townships: Clay North Little River Medora

Cities: Hutchinson Precincts 5, 6, 7, 12, 13, 14, 15, 18, 19, 20, 21 and 35

Cities: Hutchinson Precincts 16, 22, 25, 26, 26 Exclave, 34, 34 Exclave and 36 and all of Haven Townships: Clay South H101 Ninnescah Yoder Clay South H102A Sumner Haven Valley

Ultimately, it will be up to the voters if they want to have three or five commissioners. Leavenworth County was the last county to have such an expansion in 2019.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627402730653.jpeg" alt="RenoCoFiveDivision" />
 <figcaption>RenoCoFiveDivision</figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Board of Reno County Commissioners voted unanimously Tuesday to put a vote before the public in November of 2021 to expand from three to five members. Ron Sellers thinks more voices are needed in the budget process."The County is not growing substantially," said commissioner Ron Sellers. "The tax base is not going to grow substantially. In the future, county commissioners are going to have to make the decisions on what priorities we're going to increase. Thus, if we increase some, we're going to have to decrease some. The budgeting process is going to get more complicated in the future than it has been in the past."The intent of the commission is, if the voters want five commissioners, to communicate with the Governor that they want to elect those commissioners in November of 2022. There was still an open question as to if that changes the quorum requirements in the intervening months between the passing of the expansion and the voting on the two new commissioners. If so, that would mean that it would take all three current commissioners to constitute a quorum until the new commissioners are elected and seated. It was the opinion of both the county counselor and the county clerk that the quorum would change, but commissioners were still seeking clarification from legal counsel at the state level to make sure. The commissioners let GIS and elections staff decide which voting precincts are in which districts and <a href="https://reno.maps.arcgis.com/apps/MapSeries/index.html?appid=9c8504e9f72a470eb61b5fea98886e54">selected a map.</a>"I don't think any of the three of us are trying to create any gerrymandering at all," Sellers said. "We're just trying to make five equal population districts out of this."According to the resolution, Reno County shall be divided into five (5) commissioner districts and apportioned as follows:A. DISTRICT NO. 1 (Population 12,256)Cities: Hutchinson Precincts 4, 8, 9, 10, 11, 24, 29 and 32Nickerson Wards 1, 2 and 3The HighlandsWillowbrookTownships: Grant and Reno NorthB. DISTRICT NO. 2 (Population 12,720)Cities: Hutchinson Precincts 1-H102, 1-H114, 2, 3 and 30 andSouth Hutchinson Precincts 1, 2 and 3; and all of Abbyville, Arlington,Langdon, Partridge, Plevna, Pretty Prairie, Sylvia and TuronTownships: Albion Huntsville Roscoe Arlington Langdon Salt Creek Bell Lincoln Sylvia Castleton Loda Troy Center Medford Walnut Enterprise Miami Westminster Grove Plevna Hayes Reno SouthC. DISTRICT NO. 3 (Population 12,347)Cities: Hutchinson 17, 23, 23 Exclave, 27, 28, 28 Exclave, 31 and 33 and all of BuhlerTownships: Clay North Little River MedoraD. DISTRICT NO. 4 (Population 13,630)Cities: Hutchinson Precincts 5, 6, 7, 12, 13, 14, 15, 18, 19, 20, 21 and 35E. DISTRICT NO. 5 (Population 13,558)Cities: Hutchinson Precincts 16, 22, 25, 26, 26 Exclave, 34, 34 Exclave and 36 and all of Haven Townships: Clay South H101 Ninnescah Yoder Clay South H102A Sumner Haven ValleyUltimately, it will be up to the voters if they want to have three or five commissioners. Leavenworth County was the last county to have such an expansion in 2019.