Allison Best

The key discussion and action items for this rescheduled organizational meeting included the call to order, pledge of allegiance, and taking of the roll. The agenda covered the recognition of the Board and the Student of the Month presentation for Elementary, Middle, and High Schools. Major procedural items involved the appointment of a temporary chairperson and the election of officers for 2026 (President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer). The consent agenda addressed the approval of the agenda, acceptance of the December 2025 minutes and financial reports, and acceptance of resignations for three teaching staff members. Additionally, the Board addressed the designation of regular meeting dates for the remainder of 2026, the designation of official fund depositories, authorization for signatories on various accounts, and authorization for the use of district purchase cards. Other actions included designating electronic transfer officers, authorizing the CFO/Controller and Superintendent to assume specified responsibilities of the Board Secretary, authorizing the Superintendent to sign contract documents, appointing the Executive Secretary as deputy for election coordination and public notice postings, retaining legal counsel (Thrun Law Firm, P.C. and Scholten Fant, P.C.), retaining the auditing firm (Maner Costerisan, P.C.), and appointing coordinators for Title IX/Civil Rights/Non-Discrimination matters. New Business included the establishment of standing committees (Policy & Finance, Facilities & Transportation, Personnel, Student & Community Programs) and the appointment of delegates for MASB and the Allegan County School Board Association.

The board conducted its organizational meeting, which included the appointment of a temporary chairperson, the election of board officers for the 2026 term, and the recognition of board service. Key actions included the approval of consent agenda items such as setting board meeting dates, designating official depositories, authorizing check signatories, and assigning district purchase cards. Additionally, the board established standing committees for the year, appointed delegates to various educational associations, and selected new members for the Community Recreation Advisory Board. Discussions were held regarding athletic admission fees for students and staffing updates.

The Board discussed various educational and operational matters, including the presentation of Students of the Month, the Superintendent's report on athletic programs and staff recognition, and updates on the Fund Balance payout trigger and labor contracts. Significant action items included the approval of bond purchases from Raymond James & Associates, bond construction contracts with Sitelogio, the Millage Exception Resolution, and authorization for the PowerSchool litigation. The Board also approved the course list, the amended athletic handbook for the upcoming school year, and scheduled the organizational meeting. Additionally, the Board addressed concerns regarding facilities maintenance, specifically pest control at the elementary school.

Fennville's Strategic Plan, titled 'Fennville Forward: Our Roadmap for Success', was developed through a collaborative process to chart a path forward centered on student success, staff support, and community engagement. Its mission is to cultivate educational excellence with a global perspective in a community atmosphere. The plan outlines key focus areas including ensuring academic growth and providing necessary resources for all students, prioritizing the well-being of both students and staff, fostering clear and consistent communication with the community, and attracting and retaining talented staff. The foundation for success also encompasses strong daily operations, quality facilities, and responsible financial management.

Key discussions during the meeting included the approval of the consent agenda, which covered the Treasurer's Report, Summary of Bills, and approval for the High School Choir to attend an overnight stay for a State MSVMA Honors Choir performance. Student of the Month presentations were made for Elementary, Middle, and High School. The Superintendent's report highlighted the new boardroom sound system, discussions with Outdoor Discovery regarding outdoor learning spaces, an update on the 3 Iaa classification, and recognition of a $2.2 million estate gift from retired staff members James and Grace Walz. New business included the approval of the MASE Evaluation Instrument for the superintendent, a closed session to discuss the superintendent evaluation, and the subsequent approval of the superintendent's 'effective' evaluation rating. Board members also commented on honoring the Walz donation and reviewing the process for the Organizational Meeting.