Mount Vernon SD 80 board sets 2026 priorities, flags safety entrances and technology upgrades

The Mount Vernon City Schools, District 80 Board of Education met in a special retreat on Jan. 24, 2026 at the district office. President Kent Jackson called the meeting to order at 8:02 a.m., and Superintendent Ryan Swan reviewed the district's progress and priorities for the coming year.

Swan told the board that completed items since last year include a three-year contract with non-certified staff, transferring the Oakland building to ROE 13, a large increase in the district summer feeding program, improved state test scores, and actions on district health insurance. Ongoing priorities he listed were future leadership planning, staff development and recruitment, 3–5 year financial projections, declining enrollment, district and community relations, and staff training for an upgrade to the Skyward student information system. Swan also said renewal of the English Language Arts curriculum is planned for 2028 and that technology needs are being assessed over the next 3–5 years.

Looking ahead to 2026, the board identified several new items for focused work: construction of secure entrances at J.L. Buford and the Primary Center; renewing the district technology contract; creation of a Technology Coordinator position; continuing work by the district insurance committee to control costs; engagement with the city regarding Tax Increment Financing (TIF) districts; migration from the district's older Skyward software to the newer system; targeted staff trainings; producing a three-year financial projection and plans to meet projected needs; and evaluating solar contracts given rising energy costs. The superintendent noted that the Casey Café roof will likely need replacement within three to five years.

The retreat served to prioritize the district's staffing, facilities and technology investments for the coming budget and to set milestones for staff and board follow-up.