The KSD Board of Education introduced the new district superintendent and discussed its five-year maintenance plan and racial diversity in the district at its meeting, Dec. 16.
Dr. Ken Roumpos was revealed to be the incoming superintendent. Roumpos, superintendent of Francis Howell School District, has worked in public education for more than twenty years. Upon introduction, Roumpos discussed his hopes for his time with the district. He said he is enthusiastic to join KSD and to get to know students.
“[I have] the vision of ensuring that every student is engaged and empowered,” Roumpos said. “I am excited to be a part of a team to make that happen.”
Roumpos said he wants to focus on deepening connections with all students and community members, pushing for transparency and open communication. He said he believes in listening to and learning with peers, and focusing on staff and community, because it is important to him to make sure their voices are heard.
“I’m still learning a lot about the district,” Roumpos said. “[I want to know] what’s going well here? What’s great about your experience? What needs to become better?”
During the meeting, the Board also discussed its five-year maintenance plan, which is split into one-year increments. The plans for the first year include updates to bathrooms, roofing, HVAC systems and the Westchester Elementary playground. One of its focuses will be exterior improvements to the schools like signage and lights for safety purposes.
The Board plans to renovate the KHS girls’ locker room as the boys’ locker room was updated a few years ago, and make minor improvements in the KHS counseling center. These will include a conference room and a “cool-down room” for students. These improvements will begin as soon as equipment is acquired, and aim to be completed by late spring.
The meeting also included data on the district’s diversity and inclusivity. The Board hopes to maintain racial diversity among both staff and students. A large majority of staff members are White, with diversity going down in the past year. Inclusivity is a large concern with the Board. Currently, staff members are not able to be federally designated as multi-racial nor Middle Eastern. This issue will hopefully be resolved, at least on a district level.
The Board discussed the importance of both students and staff of color feeling safe and seen, mentioning affinity groups for both students and staff. However, they also expressed that they want a sense of belonging throughout schools, not just in specific groups.
