Superintendent Kennedy, with 15 years in the district, emphasized the necessity of the redistricting initiative due to a significant rise in student population during the COVID-19 pandemic. This increase is attributed to families relocating to Bogota and the introduction of a universal pre-kindergarten program. Kennedy highlighted the historical challenges of inconsistent educational practices between Bixby and Steen, particularly regarding geographical discrepancies that result in varied educational experiences. He stated, “One thing I always hear is Bixby does one thing, Steen does another,” underscoring the need for a cohesive approach across the schools.

The proposal aims to address these inconsistencies by reconfiguring the schools to serve specific grade ranges, thereby facilitating age-appropriate educational activities and events. Mr. Chang, the director of curriculum, elaborated on the academic implications, emphasizing that aligning grades at specific schools allows for targeted educational programming. He noted that smaller, more balanced classrooms would enhance learning experiences and provide better departmentalization opportunities for teachers.

Concerns were raised about the impact on existing staff and resources, with Mr. Chang acknowledging the challenges of planning professional development for teachers split between two schools. He suggested that consolidating staff would facilitate better training and collaboration. The logistical advantages of redistricting were also discussed, including streamlined resource allocation and tailored materials for specific grade levels, eliminating the need to duplicate efforts across schools.

Despite the positive framing of the proposal, underlying tensions were evident regarding potential disruptions to current community structures. The board invited questions from the audience.

The meeting also addressed logistical changes, particularly regarding the proposed shuttle bus system and traffic management. The current schedule for high school and middle school runs from 8:15 AM to 2:40 PM, while Steen operates from 8:20 AM to 2:45 PM, with a proposed time for Bixby from 8:30 AM to 2:55 PM. This adjustment aims to accommodate parents with multiple elementary-aged children, though traffic issues during drop-off times remain a concern. A shuttle system between elementary schools was proposed to alleviate congestion, with collaboration with the local police department suggested to ensure traffic safety measures.

A point of contention arose regarding communication about the redistricting changes. Some community members expressed frustration over inadequate information dissemination, despite numerous outreach efforts, including text messages, phone calls, emails, and town hall meetings. The board emphasized that community input had been sought prior to the approval of these changes, with a referendum passed that included provisions for redistricting.

The discussion also touched on the importance of maintaining small class sizes, with a typical cap set at 25 students, to ensure individualized attention and support. Concerns about safe walking paths between schools were raised, highlighting the need for secure routes for students.

Additional topics of discussion included the installation of bathrooms at Bixby for younger grades, facilitated by the referendum. The introduction of an electric school bus was mentioned as a cost-effective measure, with existing bus drivers employed by the district, negating additional expenses.