Caitlin DeFilippo

The Board of Education Winter Retreat was called to order to commence the proceedings, beginning with the Pledge of Allegiance. The primary action taken during the session was a motion to formally enter into the Board of Education Winter Retreat, which was subsequently carried by the members present.

The board meeting began with an adjournment to executive session to discuss individual tenure reviews, with no action intended. Upon reconvening to public session, the board approved the minutes from the November 20th, 2025 meeting. The main portion of the meeting involved presentations regarding capital projects funded by Referendum Two, including updates on completed work at the stadium, middle school/intermediate school, Big Flats, Gartner Road, and ongoing work at the high school (including demolition, foundation, and steel erection). The presentation detailed improvements such as classroom additions, climate control considerations, site circulation, parking, and renovations to libraries, cafeterias, gymnasiums, and locker rooms across various facilities. A significant portion of the discussion focused on the budget status of completed projects and the estimated costs for the ongoing Ridge Road and High School projects, noting that previous estimates have been updated based on awarded contracts. The second part of the presentation covered findings from the BCS process for future considerations, highlighting needs such as classroom improvements, climate control, site circulation, paging system upgrades, and renovation of student toilet rooms and main offices across the elementary schools.

The Horad Central School District Board of Education held a meeting that included discussions on adjourning to an executive session for individual tenure reviews, approval of draft minutes from a previous meeting, community questions and comments, and a report from the student representative. Community members addressed the board on topics such as bullying and the impact of the new 4-day cycle on instructional time. The board also received a presentation on the redistricting consolidation review.

The meeting included discussions on tenure reviews, individual personnel matters, and a legal matter during an executive session. The public session covered the approval of minutes from the August 14th regular business meeting and action on the tax warrant. Community questions and comments addressed topics such as the addition of a monthly agenda item for the Horsets Teachers Association, veterans credit tax relief, and school start times. The student representative provided a report on school activities, including class officer elections, clubs, and sports.

The board convened to discuss an individual personnel matter in an executive session, followed by a return to public session. Community members raised concerns about traffic and safety issues in front of Big Flat Elementary School, proposing solutions such as increased bus usage and modifications to traffic flow. Concerns were also voiced regarding a proposed senior housing development, potential environmental hazards from the demolition of a fertilizer plant, and the need for increased safety measures. The school's response included discussions with the county and town officials to address the issues.