March 2026 BOE Meeting
The Board of Education held its monthly meeting on Wednesday, March 18, 2026. Below is a summary of key business items, updates, and discussions. For the complete agenda and supporting documents, please visit the Paperless Board Meeting link.
Key Business Items
FY26 Audit Agreement: The Board approved a service agreement with Clevenger & Associates, CPA, to conduct the district’s FY26 Standard Financial Audit and Federal Single Audit. Annual audits are required by federal law and state statute and include a review of district finances and programs such as food service, transportation, attendance, Title I, and Special Education. Clevenger & Associates has been a trusted partner to the district for many years, consistently providing thorough and reliable services while ensuring compliance with all requirements.
OPAA Food Service Renewal: The Board approved the 2026–2027 renewal agreement with OPAA Food Management. This marks the fourth year of the district’s five-year contract, placing us in the final year of the agreement. Renewal terms remain consistent with the original 2022 contract and reflect the negotiated annual renewal structure.
CCR Roofing Projects (Summer 2026-2028): The Board approved a contract with CCR Roofing to complete five roofing projects over the next three summers. Work will begin in summer 2026 with the final elementary roof section, continue in summer 2027 with two sections at the SPAC, and conclude in summer 2028 with two middle school sections. This agreement secures guaranteed pricing and enables the district to maintain its facilities through a strategic, fiscally responsible plan.
April 2026 BOE Reorganizational Meeting: The Board approved a special meeting on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, at 5:50 p.m. to certify election results, swear in newly elected board members, and reorganize board leadership.
April 2026 BOE Meeting Location: Due to a scheduling conflict at the elementary campus, the Board approved moving the April meeting to the High School Library Media Center (LMC).
Key Updates
MSHSAA Activities/Athletics Report: Mrs. Lisa Glenn shared a recap of winter sports and activities, including participation numbers and student recognitions. Our programs continue to provide meaningful opportunities for students to develop teamwork, collaboration, and perseverance. We look forward to continued success in the spring season.
Ray County School Drug Awareness & Prevention Program Funding: Dr. Stephenson announced the finalization of an agreement with the Ray County Commissioners to receive $20,000 in opioid settlement funds. These funds will support expanded drug prevention education and increased parent and community awareness efforts across all four Ray County school districts.
The district will partner with local law enforcement to implement the DARE (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) program, focusing on decision-making skills, understanding the risks of substance use, and resisting peer pressure. Expanded programming is planned to begin in the 2026–2027 school year.
FEMA Response Update: The district continues to collaborate with Lawson Police and Fire Departments to strengthen communication and preparedness related to the use of district FEMA shelters at The Barker Center (MS/HS Campus) and the SW Gymnasium (SW Elementary).
Efforts are underway to improve how emergency alerts are shared with the community, particularly during tornado warnings. A Memorandum of Understanding is also being finalized to clearly define roles, responsibilities, and coordinated response efforts during severe weather events.
Spring 2026 Bond (Ag Learning Lab) Update: Dr. Stephenson provided an update on the upcoming April 7 election. The district continues to share information through multiple communication channels regarding the proposed Agriculture Learning Lab and the no-tax-rate-increase bond initiative. Community feedback has been positive, and we appreciate the continued engagement as we work to expand hands-on learning opportunities for our students.
Superintendent Update: Additional district updates were shared by Dr. Stephenson. Full details are available in the Paperless Board Meeting materials.
April Meeting Date - The next BOE meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, April 15, 2026, at 5:50pm in the Lawson Library Media Center (LMC).