Welcome to our Board Meeting Bulletin series, where we highlight key takeaways from each board meeting to keep our community informed and engaged with the latest developments in our school district.

New Board Leadership Elected
The Board of Education elected new officers for 2026, marking a smooth transition of leadership. Brian Lodes was elected President, Lisa Wood as Vice President, Skip Bailey as Secretary, and Marcus Madler as Treasurer. The board recognized outgoing President SuAnn Witt for her exceptional leadership during the 2025 calendar year, acknowledging the significant time and effort required in the president's role.

Teacher Contract Agreement Reached
Following successful negotiations, the Papillion La Vista Education Association (PLEA) membership approved a two-year teacher contract for 2026-27 and 2027-28. The agreement includes base salary increases totaling $800 over two years, with a 3.5% total package increase in year one and 3.49% in year two. The contract maintains competitive benefits while adding support for unified sports programs at all levels and expanding extra-duty positions to meet growing student needs.

Bond Project Construction Approved
The board approved guaranteed maximum prices for two major elementary school renovation projects from the 2023 bond initiative. Patriot Elementary renovations will proceed at $5,592,979 with Boyd Jones Construction, while Walnut Creek Elementary renovations were approved at $5,979,635 with Sampson Construction. Both projects will begin in spring 2025, continuing the systematic implementation of voter-approved facility improvements.

Student Enrollment Update
The district's October 1 enrollment count showed 12,120 students in preschool through 12th grade, an increase of 51 students from the previous year. While growth has slowed from previous years, the district continues to see increases at all levels except preschool. The board remains committed to maintaining manageable class sizes, with elementary averaging 19.47 students per class, middle school at 21.12, and high school at 22.44.

Legislative Representation Renewed
The board renewed its contract with Catalyst Public Affairs and Tim Gay for legislative representation at the unchanged annual rate of $39,000. As a former state senator and district resident, Gay provides vital connections and expertise as the legislature addresses education funding and policy matters. His presence ensures the district maintains an active voice in state education discussions during this critical short session.

These are just a few of the topics discussed during our recent board meeting. For full access to agendas and minutes, please visit our website. Broadcast recordings of the meetings are also available on our YouTube channel.