Angele Letcher

The meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance and roll call, followed by the approval of the agenda which included minor edits and an appointment to the Legislative Action Network. The consent agenda covered approval of minutes from previous regular and special meetings, minutes from the Coral Cooperative Advisory Committee, employment conditions for a basketball coach, and financial reports. Key discussions included updates from the elementary principal regarding student activities like farm visits and energy education, and recognition of student achievements in FFA and Oral Interpretation. The high school principal reported on FFA state competition results, student achievements in speaking events, the recent Christmas concert, and ongoing Angel Tree donations. The business manager provided an update on a recent financial audit. The Superintendent announced that two local farmers are donating entire cows to the food services program, which will allow for roast beef and steak bites to be served. New business involved a discussion and subsequent approval for a joint election with Hudson County on June 2, 2026, and a discussion regarding the addition of a paid girls wrestling assistant coach due to increased participation, which was approved. The board also discussed the proposed demolition of bleachers/concessions in February 2026, which necessitates temporary accommodations like offering external food concessions and using porta-potties or locker room access for restrooms. Additionally, the utilization of a construction cart as a makeshift press box was proposed to improve announcing conditions. The facilities and grounds committee reported on the progress of concession area, press box, and storage shed design for the new construction project, noting that the bid letting process is set for January. Finally, an update was provided on the successful installation of a replacement compressor for the kitchen cooler, while future consideration for refrigerator and freezer replacement was noted.

The meeting included reports from the elementary and high school principals, as well as the superintendent. Discussions covered student achievements, school events, and updates on various programs. There was also a presentation by the student council regarding the opportunity to attend the state student council convention, including a request for district support for transportation, hotel rooms, and food.

The meeting included discussions and decisions on several key items. The board discussed RFPs submitted for the stadium project, and decided to interview the top three firms. Budget updates for the 2024-2025 fiscal year were presented, including transfers to the food service and preschool funds, as well as supplemental budgets for special education and the general fund. The board approved the transfer from the capital outlay fund to the general fund, and approved supplemental budgets for 2024-2025. Surplus items, including library books, curriculum, weight room equipment, Chromebooks, and Prometheium panels, were approved for disposal. The board also approved holding school board elections in June.

The meeting included discussion of an amended agenda, conflict of interest disclosures, and public input. The board approved the consent agenda, which included minutes from a previous meeting, conditions of employment for several staff members, and the resignation of a pair professional. The board also heard a presentation from SE Associates and Architecture Incorporated regarding qualifications for the athletic complex improvements.

The school board held a meeting where they discussed various topics. Representatives from Freeman Academy expressed interest in being active participants in any co-op discussions. There was a discussion regarding staff evaluation processes and the potential for improvements, including the possibility of outside evaluations. The board also discussed the recent federal package for COVID-19 aid and anticipated receiving funds. They also touched on the governor's proposal for increased education funding and the impact of enrollment fluctuations on state funding.