Introduction

Progressive, proud, and focused are words that surface as you visit the Douglass Public Schools.  Students receive an education that truly prepares them for the future.  Douglass has a strong tradition of academic achievement, progressive educational opportunities and a focused staff that helps create a strong vision for the future.  The residents of Douglass are proud of their district and have supported the local educational effort.  USD 396 has excellent facilities and an impressive wide range of opportunities for the students and patrons.  District patrons approved three bond issues over the last three decades, 1993, 2000 and most recently May of 2016.  The district is proud of the hard work of the district steering committee comprised of over 30 district patrons.  This diverse group of district tax payers led the charge of the 83% passage of an 8.99 million bond issue that will improve safety and security, upgrade aging facilities and upgrade and renovate existing facilities. This effort will greatly improve the district’s facilities and meet the needs of our students and staff for many years to come.   The best part of this effort is the financing.  The school board has been able to pass the latest bond issue without an increase in local property taxes.   

Board Members

Leslie Braddy - 316-640-5907   
Shelby Green - 316-747-2017                  
Katie McCosh –  816-590-0439     
Brent Nispel - 316-648-0941        
Brook Roberts - 316-644-2033
Troy Starr - 316-641-3715       
Daniel Stiner – 316-650-9714
 

Key Staff

Superintendent:   Rob Reynolds
Curriculum & Instruction Staff:  DeAnne Heersche
Business Office Staff:   LaChelle Prather, Business Manager
Other Key Contacts:   Carrie Shores, Board Clerk

The organization of the Douglass Public Schools has been streamlined and efficient.  The addition of a part-time curriculum coordinator in 2006 has assisted in directing the curriculum development by working through the four building administrators for effective building level leadership.  Support services are led by the directors in technology and transportation, while student support comes from the counseling department.  A strong family orientation is the key to the success of the staff as both the classified and certified staff work to promote the best for the students of the Douglass community.

The District’s Accomplishments and Challenges

Accomplishments: Douglass has always been at the forefront of education with over 12 college and career pathways, senior exit interviews, a new early childhood program, and a one to one Chrome book initiative slated to be rolled out this fall.  Curriculum alignment continues to be a priority, as the district strives to maintain continuity and excellence throughout all levels in the district.  The implementation of Multi-tiered System of Support (MTSS), helps the staff in each building direct needed resources to all learners, focusing on every students learning needs.

Challenges:  Douglass Public Schools continue to see declining enrollment.  The challenging economy and the availability of housing have impacted the growth of the district.  As the economy remains in a recession, our biggest challenge will be our expenses.  With rising costs, declining enrollment and the reality of wavering legislative support for school funding, we are planning a fiscal year full of unpredictability.  The district is facing budget challenges for the 9^th straight year due to fluctuating state aid.  The second year of Block Funding has not brought any new money to the district, while expenses in utilities and health insurance continue to grow.  The district must continue to balance the financial challenges with the needs of the students as well as, continuing to strive to offer competitive salaries and benefits for employees.  These struggles will continue to be of concern as we move through the school year.