Jessica Carl

The session included a Budget Workshop where the Superintendent and School Business Executive presented the first draft of the 2026-2027 School Budget. Discussions covered finalizing the 2026-2027 academic calendar, which is contingent on the BOCES calendar structure. The Superintendent reported on various district events and celebrated several student achievements, including success in the Skills USA competition and multiple winter sports teams achieving Scholar-Athlete status. The Board President reported on the upcoming Legislative Breakfast. Committee reports included a review of seven policies by the Policy Committee and a discussion by the Buildings and Grounds Committee regarding capital project affordability given future financial uncertainty. The Board discussed the acquisition of the Depot Property land for cross country use while continuing to lease the adjacent warehouse. The Board nominated candidates for trustees of the Broome-Tioga Board of Cooperative Educational Services. A proposition request from the Fenton Free Library for voter consideration in May 2026 was approved. A comprehensive Finance Consent Agenda, covering items like the Treasurer's Report, budget transfers, and the introduction of new credit card usage for procurement, was approved. Consent items for Professional Staff Personnel, Coaches, Civil Service Personnel changes (including resignations and appointments), and various Policy Adoptions were also approved.

The committee reviewed potential scope items for the proposed 2026 Capital Project, totaling approximately $32 million without the Building Management System (BMS) replacement. The project is tentatively scheduled for a December 2026 vote, with completion expected by summer 2028. Discussions focused on the financial impact, confirming the project is designed to maintain the local effort without increasing the tax levy. Further considerations regarding Maximum Cost Allowance need to be addressed at each building, and subsequent scope finalization depends on input from Fiscal Advisors following their review of the scope document.

The Policy Committee, chaired by Judy Mitrowitz, reviewed several sections of policy documents. All listed policies under Section I and Section III showed no changes. These policies covered Naming School Facilities, Web Page Publishing Standards, Information Security Breach and Notification, Acceptance of Gifts/Grants, Parent and Family Engagement, and Staff Selection/Appointment procedures for both non-teaching and teaching staff.

This document outlines the district's goals, which aim to inspire, engage, and empower all students to achieve their full potential. Key priorities include adopting a whole child approach to education encompassing academics, athletics, arts, and extra-curricular activities; prioritizing the social and emotional wellness of both students and staff; cultivating a positive culture of 'Warrior Pride'; and fostering strong relationships within the district and with community partners.

The Policy Committee meeting, chaired by Judy Mitrowitz, reviewed several policies with no proposed changes. Policies reviewed included Policy 3 regarding Library Materials Selection, Policy 5 concerning Board Appointment and Training of Special Ed. Personnel, CSE and CPSE Members, and several Section IV policies covering illicit drug/alcohol use prevention, Special Education District Plan, Student Records Access, Dignity for All Students, and Least Restrictive Environment. The committee also reviewed Policy 20 for language changes concerning Public Access to Records, and introduced a new Cybersecurity Incident Response Policy based on Erie I Policy.