An unpaid seat on the board that oversees Overland Park's Blue Valley recreation programs is open to northwest district residents, with applications due Sept. 18.

The Blue Valley Board of Education, which appoints all Blue Valley Recreation Commission (BVRC) commissioners, will make the selection at its Oct. 12 meeting. The new commissioner would begin serving Oct. 14,and need not attend the board meeting. The position carries a four-year term.

No previous recreation commission experience is required, according to the district's announcement. Applicants must live within the northwest district's boundaries and be available for an interview in September.

What the commission oversees

The BVRC runs recreation facilities and programming across the Blue Valley area in Overland Park. Its Rec Center at Hilltop, at 7720 W. 143rd St., offers fitness classes, an indoor track, pickleball, basketball and membership programs. The commission's Activity Center at 8026 W. 151st St. is closed through Oct. 4 for construction that includes pool resurfacing, gymnastics center upgrades, lobby renovations and a new second story.

Fall programming includes aquatics, gymnastics, dance, inclusive recreation and sports leagues, with most activities starting in August or September.

Commission structure

The BVRC is a seven-member policy-setting board. All commissioners are community members appointed by the Board of Education to staggered four-year terms. Two commissioners represent each of the district's three board member districts, and one at-large seat is open to any resident within Blue Valley's boundaries.

Commissioners serve on committees, represent the commission at events and must be available for staff consultation. The board meets at 7 p.m. on the third Wednesday of each month. Commissioners receive no pay.

Under state statute, the school board's role with the BVRC is limited to appointing commissioners, approving the commission's budget and authorizing lease agreements. Executive Director Shane DeWald and Administration Manager Linda Steeve presented the BVRC's 2026-27 proposed budget to the district's Finance & Operations Board Advisory Committee on July 16.

How to apply

Residents can apply online through the Blue Valley Schools website by Sept. 18. For questions about the appointment process, call 913-239-4020. For details about the BVRC or the commissioner's responsibilities, contact the executive director's office at 913-685-6000.