Cyndee Balzer

The meeting included the approval of the agenda and payment of board bills amounting to $1,833,708.88. Key discussion items involved administrative reports covering potential telephone legislation impacting bus use of phones/tablets, which the Superintendent will research further. Facility priorities were reviewed, focusing on estimates from Veregy Energy Savings for projects related to LED lighting, heat/light controls, HVAC, and roofing, with the Board planning to develop an energy savings plan. New business items included the recommendation to approve an unpaid leave of absence for an Instructional Aide, the approval to open a savings account at Mercantile Bank for school investments, the approval to hire a Varsity Football Coach, and the approval of an amended budget.

The meeting included discussion regarding the Intermediate School construction, which is on schedule to be completed in time for school opening. The board also discussed the November Millage Election. The board approved the November Ballot language, the resignation of Natasha Fisk and Hayley Campbell, and new employees Leanna Kingsbury, Kassidee Lattin, and Alicia Greenman. The appointment of coaches Josh Christianson, Dan Wylls, Jane Wetmore and Aimee Whittaker was also approved.

The Board of Education convened a special budget meeting to discuss and act on several financial matters. Key actions included approving the 2024-2025 Amended General Fund Budget, the Preliminary 2025-26 General Fund Budget, the 2024-25 Final Amended Food Services Budget, and the 2025-25 Preliminary Food Service Budget. Additionally, the board approved the 2024-25 Final Student Activities Budget, the 2025-26 Preliminary Student Activities Budget, and the 2025 Tax Rate Request Form L-4029.

The meeting addressed various topics, including presentations of end-of-year data reports by principals, and a discussion about potentially moving the Alternative Education Program to Mid-Michigan Community College. The board approved a food service contract with Chartwell's for the 2025-2026 school year, and also approved food service purchases. Several new staff members were recommended for hire, and a retirement was approved. A Board Resolution for a capital fund line item was approved for construction. Additionally, the board addressed student expulsions, approved the MHSAA Membership Resolution, and approved L-4029 at a specified rate. The board then went into a closed session to review the Superintendent's Mid-Year Progress Report, and upon returning, approved a raise and bonus for the Superintendent.

The meeting included discussions and action items such as the recommendation to approve a new Intermediate teacher, and the recommendation to approve merit bonuses for support staff, supervisors, and teachers.