Gary Marckres

This document outlines the Champlain Valley School District's district-wide design journey to become a community-based design district. The plan focuses on co-creating district-wide and school-specific action plans to build engaging and innovative learning experiences for all students. Key phases include extensive community input, listening and learning, and the development of a 'district blueprint' by June 2026. The overarching goal is to reenvision education, foster student engagement, and create a cohesive school system that honors identity, builds proficiency, and inspires all learners.

The special education budget creation, the nature of special education, required provisions, and their integration into budget conversations were discussed. Changes to state support and funding for special education, impacting budget development, were also addressed. Special education services, federally required for students with specific disabilities, were highlighted as non-optional for school districts. The process of compiling service needs by special education professionals and the shift from a reimbursement model to a grant-based system, as per Act 173, were reviewed. The transition to a grant amount multiplied by the total number of students, rather than those on IEPs, was noted, with an anticipation of similar statewide support for Champlain Valley due to its historical spending aligning with the statewide average.

The proposed budget for 2022-2023 was presented, focusing on the CVSD mission to develop citizens who learn actively and collaboratively. Key initiatives include maintaining education quality standards, implementing proficiency-based learning and multi-tiered systems of support, and stewardship bonds. A significant addition is the inclusion of four dedicated diversity, equity, and inclusion staff positions. The budget also aims to retain staff positions to maintain class sizes, addressing disruptions caused by the pandemic. The budget includes funds for academic and emotional support for students, aligning with community values and diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts. The operations teams ensure buildings are maintained, transportation is available, meals are provided, and IT and financial services are supported. A second data management position was added to support targeted student learning. The proposed budget is $89,397,762, a 4.8% increase, driven by salaries, benefits, and new positions. The capital improvements bond focuses on life safety, accessibility, hazardous material remediation, security, and HVAC upgrades across all schools.

The school board discussed the proposed FY25 budget, addressing concerns around kindergarten staffing levels and the impact of enrollment numbers on teacher positions. The board also touched on the challenges and potential budget cuts due to the implementation of Act 127, emphasizing the need for financial responsibility while ensuring the best educational resources for students. They highlighted the significant budget adjustments required to make even small changes in the tax rate and the importance of the budget's passage to avoid drastic cuts.

The meeting provided updates on the district's strategic plan design, offering attendees an opportunity to provide feedback. The discussion included a review of the draft plan and values important to the community, such as learning, growth, equity, safety, community, collaboration, and belonging. There was a discussion about the vision and mission statements, aiming for a more aspirational and memorable vision. Suggestions included simplifying the vision statement to 'Learning, Growth, and Belonging for All' to be more inclusive and easier to remember.