Amanda Lezotte

The board discussed several items including an executive search, the MITES competition for the academic highlight, and a superintendent's report covering speech pathologist day, staff recognition, Memorial Day hours, and end of year events. Administrative reports were presented by school principals and the Assistant Superintendent of Instruction and Programs. The board adopted a resolution supporting the Berrien RESA 2026-2027 General Fund Operating Budget and discussed scholarship opportunities for the student body representative, a wrestling overnight camp, an European trip, out of state tuition rates, and graduation requirements for the Brandywine Innovation Academy.

The board received presentations from the Michigan Association of School Boards, the West Michigan Education Research and Development Foundation, and the Michigan Leadership Institute. Following these discussions, the board voted to contract with the West Michigan Education Research and Development Foundation to conduct the search for the next Superintendent.

The meeting included the approval of district bills, discussion of exterior paging zones, and the modification of the school day schedule. Academic highlights featured outdoor education, and the superintendent provided updates on upcoming awareness events, CrisisGo, bond pricing, and survey results. The board discussed staff resignations, reviewed Neola policy updates, and held a discussion regarding the Berrien RESA budget and district release participation. Additionally, the meeting featured an expulsion hearing and a closed session regarding student discipline and collectively-bargained agreement negotiations.

The meeting included academic highlights regarding an Art and Literacy Night, the Superintendent's report detailing upcoming celebrations and recognitions, and reports from various district administrators. Business and operations discussions involved the first reading of a Neola Policy update, exterior paging zones, and a proposed modification to the school day schedule. Additionally, the Board discussed district release participation for the first semester of the upcoming academic year.

The board approved the payment of district bills and the appointment of additional spring coaches. The Superintendent's report highlighted several upcoming awareness weeks and school events, including maintenance worker appreciation, social worker appreciation week, reading month, and an art and literacy night. Personnel matters discussed included the retirement of two individuals. Additionally, the board approved the purchase of new Chromebooks and the renewal of the district's Surf Fiber Internet contract for one year.