Drew Ammon

The Governing Board conducted a public hearing and approved Revision #1 to the 2019-2020 Expenditure Budget. Key discussion items included updates on the Cherokee Elementary School renovation, the AVID program, Title I, the STEAM professional learning plan, and proposed issues for the Arizona School Boards Association 2021 political agenda. The board also approved personnel action items, audio enhancement upgrades for Cherokee Elementary School, central plant upgrades for several high schools, a partial roof replacement for Copper Ridge Elementary School, the selection of a Self-Insurance Trust Board Trustee, the Coronado Success Initiative contract addendum, and revisions to the 2019-2020 evaluation process necessitated by the pandemic. Furthermore, the board authorized expenditures for Phase II of administration building and lobby security upgrades and the purchase of 1:1 math devices.

The board meeting featured a special presentation on the Student Advisory Board for the 2025-2026 school year. Information and discussion items included status updates on school repurposing, a strategic plan mid-year review, math adoption materials, and policy revisions regarding graduation requirements and agency referrals. The Board approved various financial and operational items, including gift acceptances, vouchers, the award of an ancillary employee benefits contract, school safety mapping, camera upgrades, and an intergovernmental agreement for audit services. Additionally, the Board selected a budget deficit reduction option and approved the middle school planning guide. An executive session was held to address a specific personnel matter, resulting in the acceptance of a resignation.

The Saguaro High School Campus Improvement Plan focuses on enhancing Relationships, Rigor, and Relevance, supported by community commitment through C.A.T.S. values. Key goals include increasing 9th and 10th-grade AzMERIT proficiency by 8% by Spring 2018, fostering meaningful staff communication, and promoting a safe and supportive learning environment using PBIS strategies. The plan outlines professional development initiatives in PLCs/CFAs, engagement strategies, SMART Goals, Document Based Inquiry, Academic Intervention, and Vertical/Horizontal Articulation to achieve these objectives.

The board discussed the selection and appointment of a new Self-Insurance Trust Board Trustee. The meeting included a review of Property, Casualty, and Worker's Compensation claims and financial reports, as well as a comprehensive presentation on medical claims, pharmacy spend, and plan utilization, including data on large claimants and preventative screenings. Additionally, a financial update was provided regarding checking and investment accounts, supported by a market investment report from Wells Fargo.

The board authorized the allocation of $2 million toward medical insurance costs for the 2026-2027 fiscal year. An update regarding the insurance Request for Proposal was presented, detailing the transition to Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona as the new carrier. The board reviewed property, casualty, and workers' compensation claims reports, as well as 2026-2027 trust renewal updates. Additionally, medical claims and financial performance reports were discussed, highlighting increases in plan spending and pharmacy costs, alongside utilization data for EAP and telehealth services. A financial update was provided, covering the status of checking and investment accounts for the 2025-2026 fiscal year.