MARC JACOBS
Hutch Post
Hutchinson Public School officials provided updates on several district initiatives during Monday evening's Board of Education meeting, including progress on a new daycare facility, upcoming capital improvement planning and the district’s annual insurance renewal.
Superintendent Dr. Dawn Johnson told board members that district administrators and finance staff have begun reviewing potential capital outlay projects for the coming summer. Officials recently walked through all district buildings to identify facility needs and prioritize projects.
Johnson said having the district’s finance director participate in the walkthrough process alongside staff requesting improvements should help the district better plan future maintenance and capital spending.
Johnson also reported progress on its new daycare facility. Playground equipment is expected to arrive this week, with installation planned for next week. District staff plans to move equipment from the old daycare location to the new building during spring break.
Johnson said they are hoping the daycare can open shortly after spring break, though some final items remain on a construction punch list, including completion of the building’s portico. A ribbon-cutting ceremony is scheduled for April 3 at 11:30 a.m.
Board members also heard updates on district activities and student achievements. The Hutch High boys wrestling team recently placed fourth as a team, with several individual medalists, while both boys and girls basketball teams completed their seasons during sub-state competition. Arya Byard also qualified individually for the state bowling tournament.
In other business, the board approved the district’s annual insurance renewal covering property, equipment, vehicles, cyber protection and other liabilities. Finance Director Staci Marion said the total annual premium is about $650,000, representing an increase of roughly 3 percent from last year — a smaller rise than the previous year.
Marion said the district reviews its coverage annually and works with insurance providers to update policies as properties, equipment or leases change.
Two executive sessions were held during the meeting — one to discuss personnel matters and another related to a potential property purchase for district services. No action was taken following those discussions.
The meeting concluded with the board approving the personnel report and adjourning.