April Jennings

The forum is to prepare the budget for the fiscal year 2027, the 2026-2027 school year. The agenda includes a presentation on preparatory information, small group discussions, and a survey to gather feedback. The new budget model aims for greater transparency, clarity, and community input. The school board has determined the total budget amount for the coming year is $74 million, a 3.4% increase. The central office leadership team will allocate budgets to each school, and principles will determine their final school budgets based on input from parents, guardians, students, and staff. The voters will have the chance to approve the budget in March.

The agenda includes an executive session to discuss employment matters, attorney-client communication, and labor negotiations. The regular meeting will cover the Pledge of Allegiance, announcements, public comments, and a student representative report. Action items include the appointment of a permanent superintendent, monitoring report calendar, board monitoring rubric, and a proposal from the New England School Development Council (NESDEC). Discussion items involve reviewing Policy G8 on selecting library materials and the FY 2027 budget. The Interim Superintendent's report will provide updates on 3Q meetings and gather feedback on the schools. The consent agenda includes approving minutes, account payables, voucher checks, and new hires, as well as setting the agenda for the January 7, 2026 meeting and reviewing future agenda items.

The South Burlington School Board held a special meeting and community forum to discuss various topics, including the FY 2027 budget, a permanent superintendent search, and a New England School Development Council (NESDEC) best use study proposal. Community members provided feedback on budget priorities, the teachers' contract, and potential efficiencies. The board discussed the need for transparency in the budget process and the importance of considering state-level factors and potential tax rate increases. The board also discussed the qualities they are looking for in a permanent superintendent. The NESDEC best use study proposal was presented as a way to identify potential efficiencies and better utilize existing facilities.

The board meeting included discussions and actions on several key areas. Agreements with the SBEA teachers' and support staff unions were ratified, detailing salary and inflation adjustments for the coming years. A bid for the Rick Marcotte Central School boiler replacement was approved, despite some concerns about the bidding process. The Equity Policy Monitoring Report was presented and accepted, with ongoing efforts to improve equity within the district. The FY2027 budget and the search for a permanent superintendent were also discussed, with community input being gathered. The Interim Superintendent provided an update on meetings with various community groups, highlighting what people appreciate about the schools and areas for improvement. The consent agenda, including account payables, voucher checks, leave of absence, and new hires, was approved.

The board held an executive session to discuss employment matters, labor negotiations, and legal communications. The regular meeting included discussions on the equity monitoring report, the VSA/VSBA conference, and a community forum for the 2026-2027 school budget. The Student Representatives presented updates on PSAT and SAT scores, Spirit Week, and upcoming events. A permanent superintendent search committee was created, and representatives were nominated for the Safer Routes Task Force and Curriculum Advisory Committee. The board also discussed hiring VSBA to review Policy Governance policies and reviewed budget questions. The Interim Superintendent reported on safety updates, cell phone policy compliance, redistricting committee meetings, and new Vermont Agency of Education District Quality Standards. The board also considered a New England School Development Council Best Use Study Proposal.