Moundridge USD 423 families will soon have a new way to receive information from their schools after the Board of Education approved the adoption of ParentSquare as the district’s primary communications platform beginning with the 2026-27 school year.
The board unanimously approved the move during its regular meeting Monday night, selecting the two-way communication system as the district’s new tool for connecting with parents and patrons.
District officials said the platform will be used for school and district communications beginning this fall.
The communications upgrade highlighted a meeting largely focused on preparing for the upcoming school year through policy approvals, staffing decisions and facility improvements.
In another notable action, board members approved the purchase of new softball bleachers at a cost of $30,700.
The bleachers will be purchased from Kay Park Recreation and represent one of the district’s larger capital expenditures discussed during the meeting.
The board also completed its annual review of several district handbooks and student materials.
Members unanimously approved the classified staff handbook and substitute handbook for the 2026-27 school year, along with student handbooks for Moundridge Elementary School and Moundridge Middle School/High School.
Several of the documents were approved with amendments following board discussion.
Student supply lists for the upcoming school year also received board approval.
As part of preparations for next year, the board approved early graduation requests for four students: Abby Bretz, Shaylee Brown, Kaylin Jeardoe and Tanner Trevett.
The action allows the students to complete their graduation requirements ahead of the traditional schedule.
The board added one item to the agenda at the start of the meeting before later approving the district’s summer weights and coaching supervision schedule.
The program provides oversight and training opportunities for student-athletes during the summer months.
Personnel matters occupied a significant portion of the meeting.
Board members accepted the resignation of Dustan Kanitz as high school assistant football coach before approving several new hires for both instructional and extracurricular positions.
Among the personnel additions was Lindsey Begnoche, who was hired as a fifth-grade teacher.
The board also approved summer maintenance employees Lennon Graber, Halle Hecox and Aspyn Stos.
Several coaching positions were filled as well.
Brandon Kaufman was approved as high school assistant football coach, while Chase Hansen was hired as an additional high school football coach.
The board also approved Avery Rice as assistant cross country coach, Jason Smoker as additional cross country coach and Barrett Moddelmog as a middle school additional coach.
Following the public portion of the meeting, the board entered executive session for 20 minutes to discuss employer-employee negotiations as permitted under the Kansas Open Meetings Act.
Board members, interim superintendent Clark Wedel and current superintendent Cody Rierson participated in the closed-door session.
No action was taken following the executive session.
The meeting adjourned at 8:59 p.m.
The board’s next regular meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m. July 13.
It will be held in the USD 423 Board Room.
