A look at student-centered learning highlighted the USD 257 Board of Education meeting Monday evening, as board members heard how one teacher’s innovative approach is reshaping math instruction at Iola High School.
Math teacher Amanda Belknap shared results from her implementation of Building Thinking Classrooms (BTC), a collaborative teaching strategy she discovered at the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics’ (NCTM) conference last spring.
After learning about the benefits of hands-on, collaborative learning, Belknap redesigned her classroom over the summer — installing wall-mounted whiteboards, rearranging furniture, and using group assignments to encourage engagement.
“Students are up, talking, sketching, and figuring things out together,” Belknap said. “They take ownership of their learning and I have fewer kids asking to leave class because they’re so engaged.”
Her data shows measurable improvement. In geometry, average module test scores rose from 75.9 to 78.1, while in algebra, the average jumped from the 70s to 83.6.
“I feel like that one, I can definitely say, is because of the new way I’m teaching it,” she said.
Belknap said she plans to expand the approach to her consumer math class next year. Board members and administrators praised her initiative.
High School Principal Scott Carson commended Belknap for her leadership and mentorship within the building. “She’s an amazing teacher,” Carson said. “I’ve relied on her countless times for technology help, mentoring new teachers, and offering perspective. She’s one of our strongest teacher leaders.”
The board also heard updates on the high school’s new Wednesday seminar period, a teacher-led enrichment program offering specialized learning sessions once a week. Superintendent Stacey Fager said the idea grew from teacher collaboration last year and has already proven beneficial.
IN OTHER NEWS, the board turned its attention to site council appointments. Fager noted a correction to the elementary site council list, with Tim Stauffer now listed as a parent representative for both kindergarten and third grade. He reminded the board that site councils serve as advisory groups, not policy-making bodies, but often provide valuable feedback on district decisions — such as the discussion that led to changing athletic leagues. The updated site council list was unanimously approved.
Board member Robin Griffin-Lohman shared updates from district schools: Iola Elementary raised $4,400 through its PTO coin wars; the middle school hosted safety classes and mousetrap car races; and the high school’s Mustang Mash fundraiser was a success.
Fager praised students at the Regional Rural Technical Center (RRTC), where students recently showcased culinary and design projects, including custom-printed cookies. The high school’s Underhogs Barbecue team helped cook and serve food for the event.
Fager also announced that IMS Assistant Principal Scott Brady will receive two statewide honors: one from the Kansas Principals Association and another recognizing him as Activity Administrator of the Year. “He’s a tireless worker and a positive force for our students,” Fager said.
Also of note, the district received a new Certificate of Accreditation under the state’s updated KESA 2.0 model.
Parent-teacher conferences are scheduled for next week. The elementary school will host theirs on Monday; IHS on Tuesday; and IMS on Wednesday. Each will run from 4 to 8 p.m., with a districtwide session from 1 to 4 p.m. Thursday.
Fager noted that fall sports are also nearing their close, with middle school football and volleyball teams finishing strong and cross country preparing for regionals.
