The Shawnee Mission School District (SMSD) Board Meeting held on February 10, 2025, featured a range of discussions highlighting student achievements, community engagement, and strategic planning efforts. The meeting commenced with the Pledge of Allegiance led by Boone Anderson, the Head Safety Patrol Officer from Highlands Elementary School, who shared his experiences and responsibilities in promoting safety at the school.

Superintendent Dr. Jim Schumacher presented a report celebrating recent accomplishments within the district. Notably, the Battle of Books competition saw Hawker Grove Middle School emerge as the champion, showcasing the reading prowess of students across all five middle schools. Dr. Schumacher also encouraged participation in the "Next Great Idea" competition, inviting students to pitch innovative ideas for a chance to win prize money, with applications due by March 7.

The meeting also highlighted the upcoming Polar Plunge event on February 22, which aims to raise funds for the Special Olympics. Dr. Schumacher and other staff members expressed their commitment to participate, emphasizing the importance of community support for such initiatives.

In a significant segment of the meeting, Dr. Veil provided updates on the district's strategic plan. She reported that 20 action teams are set to convene by the end of the third quarter, focusing on various educational strategies and community involvement. Highlights included efforts to embed interpersonal skills into the curriculum and initiatives aimed at supporting the growth and retention of certified staff.

The meeting concluded with a call for continued community engagement and support for the district's educational goals, reinforcing SMSD's commitment to fostering a collaborative and innovative learning environment for all students.