Annie Badar

The special board meeting addressed the need for budget alignment due to declining student enrollment, the sunsetting of one-time COVID and educator effectiveness funds, and high cost of living factors. The primary purpose of the meeting was to consider and potentially adopt Resolution Number 1542-0326 regarding the issuance of layoff notices to certificated employees. Key positions discussed for reduction included Teacher on Special Assignment (TOSA) for educational technology and English learner teacher partners, and visual and performing arts teachers, as well as two certificated administrator positions (Principal on Special Assignment Public Information Officer and Educational Service Division Coordinator). Public commentary focused heavily on opposing cuts to student-facing positions, arguing for optimization of administrative and consulting spending, addressing systematic inefficiencies, reviewing accurate revenue projections, and minimizing layoff notices through attrition and seniority rights.

The meeting commenced with the approval of the agenda and a recess to closed session to discuss labor negotiations, public employee discipline/dismissal, and pupil services matters, with no action taken upon returning to open session. Key discussions included the Superintendent's report, which highlighted the 100th anniversary of Black History Month observance, the upcoming Dreamkeeper Student Awards, and celebrations for the Lunar New Year. The Board subsequently adopted a resolution recognizing February as Black History Month. A public hearing was held regarding the negotiated settlement between the District and the Oak Grove Educators Association (OGEA), which speakers urged the Board to ratify as a fair step providing stability for students and staff. Following the public hearing, the general public comment section featured testimony from multiple parents expressing grave concerns regarding persistent harassment, bullying, and perceived lack of consequences for a specific student and family, affecting the safety and learning environment for other students and staff.

The regular meeting commenced with the approval of the agenda, followed by a recess to closed session to discuss labor negotiation conferral, public employee discipline/dismissal, and pupil services matters. Upon returning, the board acknowledged the land acknowledgement for the Milwaukee Maloney Nation. Following the pledge of allegiance led by a student leader, the Superintendent provided a report that included well wishes for the new year, recognition of School Board Recognition Month, and an announcement regarding the retirement plans of the Associate Superintendent of Business Services Division after 38 years of service. Board members subsequently offered commendations to the retiring associate superintendent for his leadership and fiscal stewardship. The board then reported on the closed session, noting no action was taken. A public hearing was held and subsequently closed regarding the negotiated settlement between the district and AFSCME Council 57, Local 101. During the public comment period, members of the public spoke regarding proposed budget reductions, urging the board to preserve Teachers on Special Assignment (TOSAs) positions that support multilingual learners, educational technology, and special education, arguing these roles are a cost-saving investment crucial for implementation of district goals and modernization efforts.

The meeting commenced with the approval of the agenda. The board subsequently recessed to closed session to discuss labor negotiations and real property negotiations, with no action taken upon returning to open session. Key discussions in open session included the Superintendent's report, which celebrated improved student academic progress and acknowledged the collective effort of staff and parents, and the positive impact of Measure P for school modernization. The Superintendent also reported on a student engagement activity involving the Pony Express. The meeting featured the annual board organization, where Board President and Vice President elections took place. Following the elections, organizational details such as designating the Superintendent as secretary, authorizing signatures, setting future meeting dates for 2026, and reviewing committee assignments were addressed. A proposal to add a special education committee was also introduced.

The meeting included discussions on public employee performance evaluation, employee discipline, labor negotiations, pupil services, and real property negotiations in a closed session. The board also discussed the opening of food pantries at select school sites to address food insecurity among students and families. Additionally, an overview of Oakrove School District's special education programs and services was presented, covering data trends, programmatic structures, staffing, training, parent engagement, and fiscal impacts.