EDINA, Mo. — The Knox County R-1 Board of Education met on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, to handle a full agenda of fiscal planning, curriculum adoption, and policy revisions as the district prepares for the 2025-2026 academic year.
During the meeting, the board unanimously approved the preliminary annual budget for the upcoming school year, following a financial report presented by Superintendent-Elect Alex Van Delft. The budget outlines district spending plans and includes year-end fund transfers and amendments to the prior year’s budget to reflect actual expenditures. A $150,000 transfer from Fund 4 to Fund 1 was also approved as part of the financial housekeeping.
Reimbursement Rates Adjusted As part of routine planning, the board voted to update mileage and meal reimbursement rates for district staff. Beginning July 1, mileage will be reimbursed at the federal rate of $0.70 per mile, with meals set at $8 for breakfast, $15 for lunch, and $20 for dinner.
Curriculum and Dual Credit Expansion In curriculum news, the board adopted newly written programs for Business Communication and Independent Art, following a presentation from Nancy Goodwin. These additions are part of ongoing efforts to expand course offerings and align instruction with student needs and postsecondary goals.
The board also approved the dual credit agreement with Culver-Stockton College for the 2025-2026 school year, ensuring continued opportunities for high school students to earn college credit.
Transportation and Policy Updates In transportation matters, Superintendent-Elect Van Delft presented final bus routes for the 2024-2025 school year, which were approved. The board also adopted a wide range of policy and regulation updates covering areas such as curriculum planning, bus inspections, field trip transportation, and services for special student populations. The updated policies are available on the district’s website.
Administrative Reports and Staffing Administrators provided updates on summer school, spring and summer activities, and construction projects taking place around the district. Reports were delivered by Melissa Vannoy, Troy Carper, and Van Delft.
During a closed executive session following the regular meeting, the board accepted several staff resignations, including those from Katie Dixson, Elizabeth Hunziker, and Amanda Delaney, who also stepped down as the Middle School Math Club sponsor.
The board approved new teaching contracts for John Brown and Ryan Dooley, and also hired Debra Penrod as a substitute for food service and maintenance departments.
Board Member Change The board also formally accepted the resignation of Andrew Parrish, effective June 17. Applications are being accepted to fill the vacancy by appointment. The selected candidate will serve until the next regular school board election.
The meeting concluded with a vote to enter closed session to address student and personnel matters as allowed under Missouri’s Sunshine Law.
