The focus for Geary USD 475 early in 2014 has to be on moving in the direction of the goals established by the Board of Education.

That’s the view of Board President Dr. Ferrell Miller. “We’re trying to improve the facilities at the high school. That’s one of our next priorities.  Definitely want to get the final approval for Fort Riley Elementary. I think we’re very close, but we haven’t gotten the final word on that yet.”

The District is waiting on final approval of the federal funding to build a new Fort Riley Elementary School.

It’s too soon to know specifics on improvements at Junction City High School. Miller agreed with that assessment, noting some dreams are being shared. “But those are dreams. I’ve been in that development before. ” Miller noted when they developed Junction City Middle School they had dreams. ” You only have so much money to work with, and you’ve got to be wise in your spending because you’re using taxpayer’s money. We want to be diligent and responsible stewards in that way.”

Professional development of staff will be a priority for the school district this year.

Miller said they want to continue good work there. “Part of that is recognizing staff for the work that they’re doing. And then preparing students for college and career readiness, we have those goals. Developing rigorous, relevant, and engaging curriculum as we’ve been doing in the past, again, but we are moving into trying to help kids be more technologically ready for their future, and moving toward adopting a one-on-one technology.”

Miller added the district is moving toward adopting a one-on-one program where each students would have the proper use and devices they need, or the ability to bring their own devices to school.