2026 Tax Rate Hearing | August 11, 2026
Prior to the regular August Board of Education meeting, the Kelso C-7 Board held a special meeting and public hearing regarding the district's 2026 tax rate.
2026 Tax Rate
Superintendent Dr. Kimberly Burger presented information regarding the proposed 2026 tax rate. As required, notice of the public hearing was published in the Southeast Missourian, and the proposed tax rate was submitted to the Missouri State Auditor's Office for review and confirmation.
During the hearing, members of the public were provided an opportunity to offer comments or ask questions regarding the proposed rate.
Following the public hearing, the Board voted unanimously to set the 2026 Kelso C-7 tax rate at $3.8500 per $100 of assessed valuation.
The special meeting adjourned at 5:47 p.m., with the Board's regular August meeting beginning immediately afterward.
Regular Board of Education Meeting
The Kelso C-7 Board of Education held its regular monthly meeting on Tuesday, August 11, 2026. As we prepare to welcome students and families back for the 2026–2027 school year, the Board reviewed academic results, safety and operational plans, transportation, district policies, staffing, and several important back-to-school items.
Academic Update
The Board received Spring 2026 MAP and EOC assessment results for review. District administration continues to analyze student achievement data to celebrate areas of growth, identify opportunities for improvement, and guide instructional priorities for the upcoming school year.
Transportation for 2026–2027
The Board approved the district's 2026–2027 bus routes.
The Board also approved transportation for students who live less than one mile from school when safety concerns make transportation necessary. Student safety continues to be an important consideration when reviewing district transportation practices.
The district mileage reimbursement rate will remain at $0.50 per mile.
School Safety
Superintendent Dr. Kim Burger provided an update on several ongoing school safety initiatives, including:
Safety and security window updates were provided.
All the district exterior windows are now protected ballistic film.
Some windows have reinforced glass to additional protection.
The district's updated Emergency Operations Plan
Other district safety planning and preparedness efforts
The Board also approved the 2026–2027 Emergency Operations Plan as part of the district's annual handbook review.
Updated Family Communication Platform
The Board received information regarding Rooms, Kelso C-7's new district-wide family communication platform.
Rooms will provide teachers and staff with a consistent way to communicate with families through the district app, including classroom announcements, group communication, individual messages, photos, reminders, and other important information.
More information will be shared with families as we begin using Rooms during the new school year.
Handbooks & District Policies
The Board approved the following handbooks and plans for the 2026–2027 school year. These will be on the district website for access very soon.
Student Handbook
Faculty/Staff Handbook
Professional Development Handbook
Emergency Operations Plan
Technology Usage Handbook
The Board also approved updates to Regulations 2750 and 3165 and Policies 3151 and 3411.
District Business
The Board approved the district's 2025–2026 audit report and the annual Secretary of the Board Report for submission to the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE).
The Board also reviewed legislative items and district facility needs as part of the Superintendent's Report.
Welcoming & Supporting Our Staff
Following closed session, the Board approved several personnel recommendations.
Gary Job was hired as a part-time custodian.
Regina Merrell, Anna Wagner, and Penny Hale were approved to serve as Beta Club Sponsors for the 2026–2027 school year.
Stephanie Hahn, Crystal Bentley, LeShae Hann, and Penny Hale were approved to serve on the 2026–2027 School Leadership Team.
Stephanie Hahn was also approved to serve as the district's Parents as Teachers (PAT) Coordinator.
We appreciate each of these individuals for their willingness to serve our students, families, and school community!
Looking Ahead to a Great Year!
Much of the August meeting focused on preparing for another successful school year. From transportation and safety planning to communication, academics, facilities, and staffing, the district is working to ensure our students and staff have a strong start to 2026–2027.
We are grateful for the continued support of our Kelso C-7 families, staff, Board of Education, and community. We look forward to welcoming our Falcons back and beginning another great year together!
The next regular meeting of the Kelso C-7 Board of Education is scheduled for Tuesday, September 15, 2026 at 6:00 p.m.