Results from a recent survey show USD 257 teachers feel good about their work and their colleagues, and intend to stay put.
Curriculum director Jenna Higginbotham shared the findings of the Kansas Teacher Retention Survey with USD 257 board members Tuesday evening, noting strong levels of engagement and job satisfaction, with district data comparing favorably to state averages in several key areas.
The survey included responses from 80 of the district’s 96 certified staff members compared to more than 16,000 teachers statewide. The survey measured staff engagement levels ranging from “actively disengaged” to “actively engaged.”
Several responses showed the district outperforming state averages. Higginbotham reported that 78% of staff said they would recommend the district to others, compared to 70% statewide, while 93% said they feel someone at work cares about them. Additionally, 90% of staff reported having opportunities for professional growth — well above the state’s 77% — and 69% said they feel their voice and opinions are valued, compared to 55% statewide.
Staff also reported strong job satisfaction, with 85% indicating they are satisfied with teaching, compared to 67% across Kansas. Retention data showed relatively low anticipated turnover, with 7% of staff indicating they may retire within three years and 5% considering leaving public education altogether — both below state trends. Higginbotham said the data provides a useful snapshot for planning, suggesting the district is unlikely to face significant staffing shortages in the near future.
Higginbotham noted that while results were encouraging, administrators are continuing to examine areas for improvement.
AARON COLE, Director of Operations, provided a breakdown of summer maintenance projects. Projects already under contract include reconstruction of the middle school parking lot, replacement of the high school fire alarm system, roof replacement over the gym and weight room area, tuck pointing work on the high school exterior and installation of new turf on the football field.
Cole said those projects are scheduled to begin soon after the school year ends, with turf work expected to start in late May. He also noted design work is underway for the field, including alternating turf colors and a Mustang logo in the end zone.
Cole sought approval for three additional items, led by a $288,703 proposal to replace aging intercom systems at both the middle school and high school. He explained the current systems are unreliable and increasingly difficult to maintain.
“The fact that the system is about 35 years old, it’s maybe time,” said Iola Middle School Principal Brad Crusinbery, noting ongoing issues including poor sound quality, difficulty reaching all areas of the buildings and limited functionality.
The proposed system would operate over the district’s network and include updated speakers throughout both buildings, as well as additional coverage. Cole said part of the cost increase is due to the need for additional network ports and equipment to support the system.
Cole also recommended replacing carpet in several high school areas, including classrooms where flooring issues require removal, as well as the counseling office, teacher lounge, administrative offices and a classroom used by teacher Drew Perry. He said the carpet matches material installed previously in the building and has held up well.
Cole also proposed the purchase of a 10-passenger activity van at a cost of $64,162 through a state contract. Cole said the district currently relies on several older vans, including one from 2004 with more than 176,000 miles, which is now limited to short trips. He explained that larger vans are in constant demand for student activities and provide flexibility when bus drivers are unavailable.
“They get used a whole lot,” Cole said, adding that the additional capacity allows for extra space for equipment and supplies.
Board members approved all of Cole’s proposals, moving forward with the intercom system, carpet replacement and vehicle purchase as part of the district’s summer improvement plan.
IN OTHER NEWS, Iola High School forensics students shared a detailed look at a successful season and explained the impact of the program with board members. “Our season went really well,” said senior Tessa Brutchin, pointing to multiple top finishes, including first place at Osage City and several second-place team results throughout the year.
