Britta Baxter

The Work Session included a review of the 2024-2025 audit by Gabridge and Company, which the district passed, noting a minor finding regarding record retention. Financial information for October, including the AP report, was presented by Sturgis CFO, noting overdue invoices where 70% went to ATS Educational Services (Burr Oak Virtual Academy). The vote on SCAA league structure changes was deferred to the next Regular Session. Discussions covered new staff onboarding processes managed by Sturgis, quotes for classroom cameras with considerations for system compatibility and storage, and a demonstration of the Powerschool program. Superintendent updates included an ongoing search for a SPED teacher and guidance counselor, contract review for the DayCare, and ensuring volunteer background checks are current. Old Business included requests to separate BOVA and Brick and Mortar expenses in financial reports, discussions about the ballpark shed's electrical panel relocation, and inquiries regarding field leases and marquee sign repair.

Key discussions during the regular session included the approval of the agenda and the minutes from the November 24, 2025 work session. In finance matters, the board unanimously approved the October 2025 monthly financial reports and payments. For November 2025 financials, payments were approved, and the Superintendent was directed to follow up regarding payments to ATS Educational Services, requesting past invoices and expense breakdowns. The board also unanimously approved an increase in daycare lease rates and to put out an RFP in the spring for equitable service. Athletics saw the approval to move the SCAA league from the West to the East, and approval for boys' and girls' wrestling teams with a supply and equipment budget limit of $7,000. A discussion was held regarding the football uniform purchasing rotation schedule. In Policy/Human Resources, the board approved the employment and separation of staff members, and unanimously approved a motion to increase staff and teacher salaries. Regarding technology, the board approved the invoice and proceeding with Comm Repair Services for classroom cameras, which will be a closed, separate system. The Superintendent provided updates on the status of the school van inspection, and committed to reviewing daycare taxes and insurance and completing a maintenance inspection, with updates planned for the next meeting. Finally, a board member announced that the Superintendent was recognized as a Top 10 Superintendent.

The meeting included reports on finance, athletics, curriculum, and policy committee updates. The board discussed rejoining MHSAA, staff hires, and separation of employment. Facility updates included entrance flooding issues, parking lot resurfacing, and relocating the dumpster. Board training availability was discussed. Technology updates included website updates, PowerSchool updates, and collaboration on student enrollment and assessment deadlines. Old business included the continuation of the monthly treat tradition for teachers and staff, the final masonry bill, and a missing flag. A closed session was held.

The meeting included discussions on finalizing the district calendar, reviewing and approving the ISD General Fund Budget Resolution, and approving students for valedictorian and salutatorian honors. The board also considered removing purchase cards from non-administration staff and adopting a formal process for receiving keys/fobs. Additionally, there were superintendent updates on E-rate approval, building projects, summer school, graduation dates, open positions, at-risk funds, and a new requirement for schools regarding Threat Assessment Teams. The purchase and implementation of Board Book Premier was tabled until the next meeting.

The meeting included formally approving the 2025-26 stipends for teachers and year round staff.