Caro Community School District

The board discussed and took action on several items, including the approval of financial bills and budget revisions for the 2025-2026 General Fund. Policy revisions were introduced for a first reading. Significant decisions included the approval of a grade realignment and building consolidation plan for the 2026-2027 school year, the nomination of a candidate for the 'Friend of Youth' honor, and the nomination of a candidate for the MASB Region 5 Board of Directors election. Additionally, the superintendent provided reports on snow day usage, upcoming legislative changes regarding cell phone policies, and awareness initiatives regarding substance risks.

The meeting commenced with the organizational actions, including the election of officers: Brian McComb as President, Tina Gomez as Vice-President, Kathleen Curtis as Secretary, and Susan Holder as Treasurer for the 2026 calendar year. The Board approved bills totaling $2,359,553.60, covering payroll, general fund, and food service expenses. Key discussions centered on the selection of the Core Knowledge Language Arts (CKLA) reading series as the new K-5 literacy curriculum resource, funded by a grant, and discussing potential nominees for the 2026 Friend of Youth award. Board action included approving the Thrun Law Firm, PC as official school attorney, designating depository banks, approving The Tuscola County Advertiser as the official newspaper, setting stipend parameters, and establishing the recurring meeting schedule for the second Monday of each month at 6:00 PM. Furthermore, the Board approved the purchase of the Amplify CKLA 3rd Edition literacy curriculum for grades K-5, not to exceed $152,698 in grant funding. The Superintendent provided updates on the bond project, noting a pause on Phase 2 work to consider consolidation models, and confirming plans for summer 2026 tennis court work.

The meeting commenced with the Pledge of Allegiance and a Moment of Silence. Discussions included sharing positive updates among board members and preparation for the upcoming organizational meeting, specifically regarding officer duties and committees. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to a closed session for the Superintendent Evaluation. Following the closed session, the board approved the evaluation result of Superintendent Rierson as 'effective' and approved the extension of Superintendent Rierson's contract through the 2027-2028 school year.

The primary discussion focused on a District Consolidation and Realignment Workshop facilitated by an Adaptive Schools Trainer from MDE. Stakeholders evaluated three options for the future PreK-12 grade configuration, following a presentation on district enrollment trends and classroom space availability. Following group discussions and Q&A, stakeholders voted, resulting in Option C receiving the majority of votes (77%). Option C designates the McComb building for grades PK-2, the current Middle School building for grades 3-6, and the current High School building for grades 7-12.

Key discussions included the presentation of Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) recognition banners by the Tuscola Intermediate School District Assistant Superintendent. The Board discussed the 2024 Bond Update, specifically concerning the scheduled sale of Series II Bonds in 2026, and reviewed an authorizing resolution. A major topic was the Grade Realignment and building consolidation process, where the Superintendent summarized administrative meetings, staff/family surveys, and the projected timeline. Action items approved by the Board included authorizing the issuance and sale of the 2026 School Building and Site Bonds, Series II, and the hiring of a Varsity Girls Soccer Coach for the 2025-26 season. During the closed session, the Board approved a resolution concerning the State School Aid Act Section 31aa regarding litigation and privilege-waiver requirements.