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Overall Summary
The Spring Hill Board of Education met Oct. 13 for a regularly scheduled meeting that highlighted exceptional student achievement, district construction progress, and the announcement of Superintendent Dr. Link Luttrell’s retirement at the conclusion of his current contract in 2027. The evening featured a celebration of teachers and staff, updates on major bond projects, and unanimous approval of several key action items including a new data dashboard system and an upcoming superintendent search.
Good News, Recognitions, and Announcements
The meeting began with a series of staff honors that reflected the district’s commitment to excellence every day. Wolf Creek Elementary nurse Rene Arthur received a Core Value Award for creating a Supportive Environment, recognized by Principal Beth Cooper for her calm leadership and compassion during emergencies.
Two first-year teachers, Cordelia Hanger of Dayton Creek Elementary and Rebecca Hertog of Spring Hill High School, were honored as the district’s Horizon Award nominees, celebrating excellence in early-career teaching.
Additionally, Avery Ozier of Timber Sage Elementary and Tristan Bartley of Spring Hill High School were honored as the district’s Teachers of the Year. Both will advance to statewide competition in 2026.
#BuildingOpportunity - Bond 2025 Update
Executive Director of Operations Marc Williams, joined by DLR Group and Newkirk Novak Construction, reported continued momentum across all Bond 2025 projects. Elementary additions are on track to break ground in November, with bids for Prairie Creek, Timber Sage, and Spring Hill Elementary schools opened Oct. 14 and recommendations to be presented Oct. 27.
Roof replacements at Spring Hill Elementary and Middle School were approved with a 30-year warranty, and HVAC system upgrades across three sites are projected at $12.4 million—slightly above initial estimates but within scope after design refinements.
Design planning also began for the Spring Hill High School Career and Technical Education (CTE) and Commons expansion, totaling $25 million. Williams credited collaboration among staff, architects, and construction partners for keeping the multi-site bond work on budget and schedule.
Enterprise Fleet Lease Update
Representatives from Enterprise Fleet Management presented an update on the district’s 35-vehicle fleet. The board reviewed Plan B, a proposal to replace nine vehicles, generating approximately $105,000 in equity returns and $60,000 in savings while reducing maintenance costs.
Board Member Doug Hull commended the district’s proactive replacement cycle for maintaining safety and efficiency, noting that the lease program continues to deliver cost benefits compared to vehicle ownership.
Sunflower House Memorandum of Understanding
Assistant Superintendent Dr. Josh Robinson presented a first-read of an agreement with Sunflower House, a child advocacy center that supports Johnson County schools with training, Title IX resources, and forensic interviews in cases of suspected abuse.
The partnership carries no cost to the district and formalizes procedures already in practice. Board President Nicole Melius expressed support, emphasizing the value of collaborative resources for student safety.
Long-Term Facilities Use Request
The board heard a request from The Way Church to use Spring Hill Middle School for Sunday services under a two-year facility agreement. Williams and district staff outlined custodial, insurance, and scheduling logistics, ensuring minimal impact to school operations. The agreement will return for a vote at the Oct. 27 meeting.
Student Success and Strategic Plan Update
Director of Teaching and Learning Kristen Zuck shared encouraging academic data demonstrating measurable growth districtwide.
Advanced Placement (AP) pass rates rose to 82%, compared to the national average of 60%. Students earned more than 600 College Now credits through Johnson County Community College, saving families an estimated $226,000 in tuition.
The district’s average ACT composite score of 22.1 exceeded the Kansas average of 19.3. State assessments showed double-digit proficiency gains in English Language Arts, Math and Science, with Spring Hill students outperforming state averages by as much as 20 percentage points.
Zuck and Dr. Erin Smith also announced that Spring Hill Schools earned four KSDE Star Awards for State Assessment Performance, Civic Engagement, Individual Plans of Study (IPS) and Social Emotional Growth — a district first.
Virtual School Update
Principal Cassie Barton presented data showing steady improvement at the district’s Virtual School. The graduation rate climbed from 71.2% to 77.7%, with potential to surpass 80% as student verifications are finalized.
Virtual students also improved in proficiency across all core subjects. Barton credited stronger curriculum alignment, enhanced testing procedures, and increased retention among returning students for the gains.
Action Items
Spring Hill High School Choir Trip to Washington, D.C. — Approved
ION Data Dashboard Purchase — Approved.
Board Policy Revisions (A–D) — Approved.
Superintendent’s Report
Dr. Link Luttrell reported an official district enrollment of 4,174 brick-and-mortar students and 188 virtual students, a net increase from the previous year. Kindergarten numbers fell short of projections, and the district will monitor early grade enrollment trends closely.
He also recapped the recent School Safety Forum, where community members and law enforcement discussed potential enhancements to safety measures. Next steps include cost analysis and a three-to-five-year safety plan for board review.
Luttrell concluded by announcing his intent to retire at the end of his current contract on June 30, 2027, thanking the board, staff and community for their trust and partnership through years of growth and achievement. Board members expressed gratitude for his leadership and dedication to students and staff.
Executive Session
The board entered executive session to discuss personnel matters of non-elected personnel.
Additional Action Item
Following the executive session, the board approved an RFP (Request for Proposals) to hire a Superintendent Search Firm. The process will open immediately, with finalist interviews expected by late November.
Official minutes from the meeting will be posted after board approval.
📄 View the 09.22.2025 meeting agenda on BoardDocs
📝 View the official minutes from the 9.22.2025 Board Meeting