Arkansas City Public Schools received positive news on building safety and air quality during this month’s USD 470 Board of Education meeting.
Building Health Report
Steve Moreland with Air & Environmental Management Inc. presented findings from recent indoor air quality and mold testing at Arkansas City Middle School. Testing confirmed air levels are within safe standards, and areas previously affected by moisture have been cleaned and treated. Preventive steps — including ongoing monitoring and HVAC maintenance — are in place to keep conditions healthy and safe for students and staff.
Good News and Honors
The district also celebrated several achievements. The Arkansas City Middle School KAY Club received the 2025 Joe B. Avery Community Spirit Award for its community service and leadership efforts. Club sponsors Rakiyah Taylor and Jeff Shaw shared highlights of recent projects and plans for the year ahead.
District Communications Director Alisha Call earned the 2025 Distinguished Service Award from the Kansas School Public Relations Association, recognizing her outstanding work in school communications across the state.
USD 470 also named its September Top DAWGS, honoring employees who go above and beyond: Linda Enderud (Registrar, ACHS), Miguel Castenada (Custodian, ACMS), Jennifer Morse (Gifted Teacher, ACHS), and Adrianna Wingert (Pre-K Teacher, Roosevelt Elementary).
Personnel Updates
New hires approved by the Board include Lilian Cibilis (Adams), Jaden Helms (Head Girls Wrestling Coach, ACHS), I’zhayla Kinnard (C-4), John Schwintz (Custodian, ACMS), and Cindymarie Townsend (C-4). The Board also accepted the resignation of Sarah Gepner (C-4). Continue story below ad:
Other Business
The Board accepted $500 from Rick and Valerie Rush for the ACHS Band Trip and a $4,867.14 Hometown Project donation from Lowe’s of Ponca City.
Arkansas City Middle School staff and students shared updates on project-based learning, gifted education, and English learner programs, highlighting strong growth and family engagement.
Dr. Ron Sarnacki with the Cowley County Special Education Cooperative reported on staffing, training, and continued challenges in recruiting paraprofessionals and psychologists.
Administrators reviewed updated job descriptions and evaluation forms for supplemental positions and reported continued success with the district’s bell-to-bell phone-free policy, which has improved focus and reduced classroom distractions.
Safety and Security Coordinator Eric Burr shared that vape-related incidents have dropped sharply compared to last year, crediting stronger enforcement and support from student-led groups such as Hope Squad, SADD, and YELL.
Assistant Superintendents Braden Smith and Will Pfannenstiel presented updates on school improvement goals and upcoming transportation needs, including plans to replace several route and activity buses in the next fiscal year.