Bryan Houttekier

The Board conducted a workshop focusing on several operational and educational matters. Key discussion topics included a review of the current Strategic Plan progress and foundational pillars, evaluation of future strategic planning and goal-setting frameworks, and a review of the 8th-grade Entrepreneurial STEAM program curriculum, resulting in the formation of a subcommittee. Additionally, the Board discussed administrative pathways for curriculum updates and outlined community outreach strategies regarding upcoming School Board election cycles.

The Board of Education meeting addressed several operational and financial matters. Key actions included the authorization of accounts payable and the reception of finance reports. Personnel items covered human resources recommendations, including new hires, resignations, retirements, and staffing support services. New business discussions focused on field trip requests, a resolution for state aid notes, participation in the school bond loan fund, MHSAA and MASB memberships, a co-op renewal agreement, and a Rehmann engagement letter. The meeting also included departmental reports across various school areas, a superintendent report, and a closed session regarding a superintendent evaluation and negotiations.

The board discussed and approved several technology bond projects, including the acquisition of a new phone system, server infrastructure upgrades, new copiers, UPS battery replacements, and a chromebook purchase. Additionally, the board approved the renewal of the Chartwells Food Service contract and a field trip request for the high school FFA. A first look at various updated and new board policies was conducted, and the board reviewed reports concerning district student achievement, athletics, building maintenance, and financial planning, including updates on upcoming construction and renovations at district facilities. A closed session was held to discuss negotiations.

The committee discussed updates regarding the Luther C. Klager and athletic field project, specifically addressing HVAC unit controls and drainage corrections. Progress reports for the Riverside Intermediate School included updates on electrical, painting, and roof work, as well as athletic entrance construction. The committee reviewed the schematic design drawings for the Jr./Sr. High School project and moved to recommend their approval to the full board.

The committee discussed facility updates across several school sites. Topics included the final acceptance and warranty timeline for HVAC unit controls at the Luther C. Klager athletic field, as well as ongoing drainage correction work. Progress updates were provided for the Riverside Intermediate School regarding electrical, roofing, and architectural work. Additionally, the committee reviewed the schematic design phase for the Jr./Sr. High School project and moved to recommend board approval for these designs and estimates.