Jenny M. Bilotta

The committee held a detailed review of the 2026-2027 budget, covering categories such as operations, maintenance, administration, athletics, and BOCES services, noting specific percentage increases and cost drivers. Discussions included strategic efforts to reduce student transportation expenses and an analysis of the Governor's proposed budget. Specifically, the committee examined the Resident Weighted Average Daily Attendance metrics, the 1% Foundation Aid calculation, and the potential impact of state funding for a full-day Universal Pre-K program on district general funds.

The meeting commenced with the pledge of allegiance and a moment of silence honoring Ira Kenstein, a former board member, and his late wife Carol, as well as former board member Gerald Zimmerman. Agenda items included the approval of the regular meeting agenda for January 13, 2026. Commendations were presented to students inducted into the National Honor Society and to the Olean High School National Honor Society for receiving the Champions of Change award from the New York State School Boards Association for their North Union Street Gardens beautification initiative. Coach Phil Beckio was also recognized for receiving the Alfred Joe Banel Rod Ro memorial award as Big 30 Coach of the Year. The meeting included comments from the Olean Teachers Association president regarding proposed policy revisions (3272 and 6430) concerning advertising and employee political activities, urging stakeholder involvement and referencing DEI committee guidance. Student board members reported on the Honor Society induction dinner and expressed plans for increased inter-school involvement. Administrative updates covered the multi-phase capital project, noting that Phase One focuses on Washington West playground, classrooms, and foundation work, along with security film and AC replacement at the high school, and middle school entrance and pool tile replacement. Phase Two encompasses major high school renovations (offices, biology classrooms, parking lot) and East View Elementary mezzanine work, while Phase Three addresses HVAC work at the middle school.

The meeting commenced with the Pledge of Allegiance and a moment of reflection, followed by the approval of the agenda. Discussions included communications such as a recognition letter concerning the 'homeless huskys' event, which resulted in a $1,000 gift to the Good Samaritan Award Fund supporting a scholarship for a graduating senior involved in the program. Commendations were presented, including the New York State School Boards Association Champions of Change Award to Scott Razinski and the OCSNHS for the Union Street Gardens Beautification Initiative. The Board also recognized student achievements, including Special Olympic Sportsmanship Award recipient Jacob Spears and Youth of the Week Ava Finch. Several staff and faculty members received the Ron Shupe Award and Leader of the Pack awards for their dedication and service, including Lori Anastasia, Greta Maran, Tina Turk, Kenny Wright, Patricia Fredangelo, and Terry Burroughs. Student members reported on recent events such as the school musical and upcoming activities like the Winter Carnival.

The meeting included a motion to change the date of the subsequent board meeting from July 25, 2023, to July 24, 2023. Key discussion topics involved Student Progress and High School Graduation Rates, a report on the Board Retreat, and plans for Board Goal Setting. The Superintendent reported on retreats and the Safety Plan Public Comment Period. Personnel actions were approved, including one resignation and several certified/classified appointments for positions such as Occupational Therapy Assistant, Art Teacher, Physical Education Teacher, Spanish Teacher, Special Education Teacher, and Social Studies Teacher. Coaching and extra-curricular appointments were also approved, along with informational items detailing upcoming meetings for Operations, Buildings and Grounds, Board Goal Setting, Audit/Finance, and subsequent Regular Board Meetings.

The meeting included commendations for six Olean High School students receiving CRCF Scholarships. Public comments addressed the new school year and fostering a culture of community. Student BOE members reported on a leadership retreat and plans to increase their visibility and involvement in school events. The Board discussed setting goals with safety as a priority. The Superintendent reported on the reopening of school, nominations for the Ron Shoup and Leader of the Pack awards. The Audit & Finance committee minutes were reviewed, including a discussion on bus driver recruitment. There was a discussion regarding updating the policy with regards to public comments and the potential for live streaming. The board approved milk prices, creation of a Human Resources Specialist Position, Tax Warrant, Transportation Contracts and Resolution, Spring Coaching Assignments, CCA Contracts, and Mentor List Update. The board also reviewed the personnel consent agenda.