Christopher Karwiel

This document outlines the 2026-27 Budget Development Plan and Calendar, with objectives focused on aligning district goals for academic excellence, community school partnerships, and efficient human and fiscal resource management. Priorities include supporting curriculum, teacher development, and community collaborations. The plan addresses significant budgetary challenges such as limited foundation aid increases, rising insurance costs, contractual obligations, and special education expenses, while highlighting strategies for cost control and financial stability through resource reinvestment and shared services.

The meeting included procedural items such as the call to order and approval of the agenda. Key discussions and actions involved approving the minutes of the previous meeting, receiving a budget update from Assemblyman John McDonald noting potential foundation aid increases and per-seat UPK funding changes, and a report from the Nutrition Club. The Superintendent presented his report, and the Business Manager provided his financial report. Numerous action items were approved, including an hourly rate change for Denise Hagadorn, the declaration of obsolete technology (iPads, projectors, speakers), approval of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) on Notification of Start Times, the termination of Teaching Assistant Jessica Carroll, scheduling of future special meetings, approval of new After School Program leaders, a resolution to request the Voter Registration List from the County Board of Elections, approval of a Health Services Contract with the Enlarged City School District of Troy, approval of the 2026 MOU with the Village of Green Island, approval of the 2026-2027 District Calendar, and approval of an intermunicipal agreement with Waterford School District for student transportation. Elliott Saavedra was approved as a Spanish Tutor. Finance actions included approving treasurer's reports, accepting warrants totaling $612,797.95, and approving the Student Activity Faculty Audit Report. A discussion was held regarding a Therapy Dog Policy, and an updated Budget Calendar was presented for information. The meeting concluded with an executive session if needed, followed by adjournment.

The meeting commenced with the approval of the agenda. During public comment, a citizen addressed the board regarding the history of issuing veteran diplomas, noting that while the practice will cease as the entity no longer operates a high school, their efforts inspired other districts. Key discussions involved the Superintendent's Report and the Business Manager/Treasurer's Report. Major actions included the approval of a Bond Resolution dated February 2, 2026, authorizing the issuance of up to $7,500,000 in General Obligation Bonds and expenditure from the Capital Reserve Fund for school building reconstruction, estimated at $7,700,000. Other actions included approving a medical leave, designating Bernard P. Donegan, Inc. as Municipal Advisor, approving a new 21st CCLC Data Manager, approving additional building substitutes, and establishing reserves. Finance actions involved approving treasurer's reports and accepting warrants totaling $804,221.43. Policy review included the approval of Policy 8505 regarding charging for meals and food items. The board also moved into and returned from an executive session to discuss personnel and student matters.

This District Comprehensive Improvement Plan for GIUFSD outlines priorities for the 2025-26 school year. The plan focuses on three key areas: enhancing teaching and learning through the Heatly Instructional Model to promote instructional clarity and student growth; fostering a strong sense of belonging within the school community to improve engagement, academic success, and social-emotional well-being; and developing collaborative expertise among educators to ensure consistent, high-impact teaching practices and continuous professional growth.

The meeting commenced with the Pledge to the Flag and approval of the agenda. Discussions included reports from the Student Council, Garden Club, and a presentation on the updated counseling plan. The Superintendent presented his report, followed by reports from the Principal and Business Manager/Treasurer. Key action items included the approval of Rachel Truax as the Community Closet Coordinator, approval of a Special Education Contract with Coxsacki-Athens Central School District, approval of pay changes for Denise Hagadorn and all group leaders effective January 1, 2026, confirmation and reauthorization of the Employee Benefit Accrued Liability Reserve Fund and Mandatory Reserve for Debt Service Fund, approval of the CASHIC Trust Agreement, approval of additional building substitutes for the 2025-2026 school year, and approval of tenure for Jessica Jones. Financial actions involved approving treasurer's reports, accepting warrants totaling $624,245.92, and approving budget transfers. All approved action items (8.01 through 10.04) were subsequently approved in a blanket motion. The board also addressed informational items and prepared for a potential executive session regarding personnel or student matters before adjourning.