Adam E. Forester

The meeting addressed consent agenda items, including approval of contracts for an eighth-grade field trip and discussion regarding out-of-town/state overnight trips for basketball playoffs and a communications conference. There was a detailed discussion on the recent week-long snow days, including the decision-making process based on National Weather Service forecasts, the logistical challenges of early release, and the unusual decision to allow basketball championship games to proceed despite school closure due to favorable short-term weather predictions. Financial discussions covered activity fund balances (noting a normal drop due to spring sports ordering), function summary reports, ad valorem tax collection progress, and approval of general fund and non-payroll encumbrances, change orders, and payroll items. Specific encumbrances detailed included purchases for technology spare parts, air quality testing at the high school office, and e-Rate consulting services. The board also discussed the snow removal costs from a third-party vendor.

The meeting agenda included the presentation of the annual audit by a representative from Bledo Hewitt and Golixson, CPAs, P.L.L.C. The audit presentation highlighted qualified and adverse opinions due to the district preparing statements on a regulatory basis rather than generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP), specifically noting the absence of a general fixed asset account group. The remainder of the meeting focused on staff reports, specifically the presentation of school improvement plans by site administrators, commencing with the middle school team. The middle school plan emphasized using data, such as benchmark, state testing, and behavior incident data, to implement a Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) framework. This framework involves allocating a daily protected 20-minute block called 'Elevate' for targeted academic and behavioral interventions (Tier 2 and Tier 3), while Tier 1 covers high-quality instruction, assignment completion support, guidance lessons, and independent reading time for all students. The audit for the 2024-2025 school year was subsequently approved by roll call vote.

This plan outlines how Bethany Public Schools will utilize ARP-ESSER III funds to ensure student safety, health, and academic excellence. Key strategies include implementing prevention and mitigation measures aligned with CDC guidance, addressing the academic impact of lost instructional time through evidence-based interventions like tutoring and summer programs, and providing comprehensive support for students' academic, social, emotional, and mental health needs, particularly for those disproportionately affected by COVID-19. The plan details specific initiatives such as enhanced cleaning practices, investments in educational technology, new curriculum adoption, professional development for staff, and facility construction projects to support a safe and effective learning environment.

The meeting included honoring the Children's All State Choir and high school coaches of the year. The board also conducted an oath of office for the new board treasurer, Hannah Costa. The consent agenda included approval of minutes from previous meetings, contract agreements for FY25 with the Children's Center and Together Fundraising Inc., out-of-town trips, additions to activity fund accounts, and financial fund reports. Furthermore, the board discussed and approved general fund non-payroll encumbrances, change orders, payroll, and building fund non-payroll items. Lastly, the board discussed and considered approving additions to board policies including behavioral threat assessment, due process for administrators, code of ethics for board members, open records request, public record access request, Oklahoma open records act, and executive sessions.

The meeting included discussion and possible action to appoint an individual to a vacant board seat. There was a presentation and discussion of facilities improvement plans by Lingo Construction, focusing on the enhancements made to the track and field. The consent agenda included approval for out-of-town and out-of-state trips for various school activities. Financial reports were reviewed, including updates on the general fund and building fund, with explanations for changes in balances and revenue tracking.