Excelsior Springs school board reviews attendance challenges, approves clean audit

Superintendent emphasizes attendance trends

Superintendent Dr. Mark Bullimore used a large portion of his report to explain attendance data and why it matters for both learning and funding.

Bullimore explained the three attendance measures tracked by the state: enrollment, average daily attendance, and the percentage of students attending at least 90 percent of the time. He noted that districtwide, about 78.6 percent of students have met that 90 percent threshold so far this year, with the high school closer to 73 percent.

Missing 17 days of school, Bullimore said, amounts to roughly three and a half weeks of lost instruction. Beyond academic impact, inconsistent attendance can affect classroom pacing, student confidence, and peer relationships.

Bullimore told the board he will bring back state and peer district attendance comparisons in January to provide more context.

Family support initiative reaches dozens of households

Bullimore also highlighted a Thanksgiving food distribution effort organized by district staff and supported through community donations. The effort served 50 families, with enough food collected to support up to 80. Additional meals remain available to help families during upcoming holidays, and the district is exploring ways to expand the program through future partnerships.

Strategic planning moves forward

The board received an update on the completion of Stage One of the district’s strategic planning process, which involved 25 participants from across the community, including students, educators, administrators, board members, business leaders, and faith representatives.

Bullimore said the group identified five major district strategies after reviewing data, values, and goals. An executive summary will be presented to the board in January, followed by the formation of action teams this spring. Community members interested in participating were encouraged to contact district administrators.

Board member Tray Harkins described the process as one of the most positive experiences he has had on the board, citing collaboration and a shared focus on students.

Clean audit approved

The board unanimously approved the district’s Fiscal Year 2025 audit, presented by Brad Steele of Westbrook & Co. The audit resulted in an unmodified opinion, meaning the district’s financial statements were presented fairly.

Steele noted the district’s reserve ratio remains above 20 percent, a level he described as healthy. Recommendations included several best practice improvements related to internal controls, budgeting documentation, and financial procedures, none of which auditors described as alarming.

Budget support letter and Head Start funding update

Board members approved an updated LEA CSIP Budget Support Letter, aligning district spending with strategic planning goals and state accountability requirements.

The board also received positive news regarding MARC Head Start funding, which has been fully restored retroactive to November. District officials said the timing is especially important as the Early Childhood Center prepares for a federal Head Start review later this week.

Administrators emphasized that Head Start funding provides critical services beyond academics, including family support, home visits, health screenings, and case management.

Closed session

Following open session business, the board voted unanimously to enter closed session to discuss personnel and legal matters as allowed under Missouri law.