Erik Barnard

The committee reviewed an updated pay scale proposal for Central Office staff. Infrastructure discussions centered on the need for a new roof at the bus garage and mandatory elevator upgrades at the Middle School to comply with state requirements. Additionally, the committee addressed the need for increased paraprofessional staffing at Lakeview Elementary due to current student requirements.

The meeting centered on a discussion regarding the future of the district's technology services as the current agreement with the Montcalm Area ISD reaches its conclusion. The committee explored the feasibility and strategy of transitioning technology services to be managed directly within the district and discussed the development of the technology coordinator role and requirements.

The board meeting addressed various administrative and operational matters, including a review of the Tamarack District Library's annual report and updates on local fire department partnerships. Administrative reports covered current enrollment figures, attendance metrics, student instructional programs, athletic department updates, food service operations, and facilities maintenance. The superintendent provided an update on ongoing construction projects and upcoming preschool partnerships. The board took action to approve a donation from Community First Federal Credit Union, adopted an updated central office pay scale, and authorized the addition of a paraprofessional at the elementary school level.

The committee discussed updates regarding necessary repairs for the middle school elevator, including a required $30,000.00 deposit to secure a spot on the contractor's schedule for summer repairs, with the total project cost estimated at $119,622.00, to be funded from the 2025-2026 budget. Additionally, the committee received an update regarding the potential renovation of the bus barn, noting that contractors have not yet provided firm pricing.

The meeting included a presentation on the 2026-2027 school year budget, which was prepared based on a pupil count of 970 students and features a $200,000 investment in a new ELA curriculum. Significant actions taken by the board included the formal approval of the final 2025-2026 budget, the proposed 2026-2027 budget, the tax levy, supervisor contracts, and wage proposals for support staff for the 26-27 school year. Additionally, the board entered a closed session to conduct the superintendent's evaluation.