Brooke Bass

The committee meeting covered updates on the Schools Without Borders initiative and competition equity within the section. Discussion items included the status of spring sports teams, coaching vacancies, recruitment processes for coaching staff, and the absence of recommendations for new sports for the upcoming school year. Additionally, the committee reviewed the design and funding for a capital project aimed at upgrading athletic facilities, which includes planned improvements such as field lighting, concessions, and a press box, and the formation of a district advisory committee to guide this project.

The committee discussed the 2026-27 revenue budget, specifically covering the tax cap calculation, foundation aid, and the allocation of the fund balance. Discussions included revenue modeling and the potential use of reserves to offset expenditure increases. The committee also previewed an upcoming budget presentation focusing on program, capital, and administrative costs. Furthermore, the committee agreed to move forward with the adoption of the partial real property tax exemption for volunteer firefighters.

The committee discussed the 2026-27 budget review, including revenue projections related to foundation aid and the use of district reserves. The committee also examined a proposed reduction in force for a central office administrator and a potential early retirement incentive for staff. Additionally, they discussed the framework for an upcoming budget presentation and reviewed financial options associated with an Energy Performance Contract, deciding to advance these discussions to the full board.

The board convened for an executive session to discuss collective bargaining negotiations. During the regular session, the board received a report regarding a proposed energy performance contract, including debt service analysis and projected savings. Furthermore, the board approved a supplemental memorandum of agreement for an early retirement incentive for teachers and authorized a civil service personnel appointment at the high school.

The committee reviewed progress on curriculum initiatives including the NY Inspires graduation measures, universal pre-kindergarten planning, and the Summer Eagles Academy. Implementation updates for Erin's Law were provided, followed by an analysis of the 2024-25 graduation rates and mid-year Star assessment results for various student subgroups. The committee also considered a new high school course request for Lights and Sound Design and discussed upcoming technology reports to the full Board of Education.