Mount Vernon SD 80 outlines 2026 priorities: safety entrances, technology upgrades and financial planning

President Kent Jackson opened the Jan. 24, 2026 board retreat of Mount Vernon City Schools, District 80 and Superintendent Ryan Swan reviewed the district's goals and focus areas for 2025–26.

Mr. Swan listed completed items since the prior retreat: a three‑year contract with non‑certified staff, the transfer of the Oakland building to ROE 13, an expanded summer feeding program, improved state test scores and work on the district's health insurance. He then described ongoing priorities such as succession planning, staff development and recruitment, three‑to‑five‑year financial projections, addressing declining enrollment, and a planned Skyward upgrade and related staff training.

Looking ahead, Mr. Swan identified new items for 2026: installing secured main entrances at J.L. Buford and the Primary Center; renewing the district's technology contract; creating a Technology Coordinator role; continuing work with the insurance committee; coordinating with the city on potential extensions and creation of TIF districts; transitioning from the district's old Skyward software to a new system; conducting a three‑year financial projection and planning to meet projected needs; and evaluating solar contracts in light of rising energy costs.

The board did not vote on the planning items at the retreat but signaled support for advancing the listed priorities into the district’s planning and budgeting processes.