Jodie Elliott

The board meeting included a presentation of the FY2027 Draft Budget Proposal, estimating a 6.6% increase from the current year. Discussions covered the cost of educating students in the C3P program, non-negotiable budget costs, and potential messaging on the buydown from the AOE. Policies on Animal Dissection, Participation of Home Student Students, Student Conduct and Discipline, and Student Freedom of Expression in School-Sponsored Media were approved. The Superintendent's report highlighted the Winter CatCH session, trauma-informed training, staff wellness programs, and a grant for an LED lighting project. The Director of Finance reported on the ongoing annual audit and potential use of surplus funds. The Principal's report shared student fall assessment data and the use of the new Dibels assessment. Public comments addressed tuition increases and school partnerships.

The meeting included a facilities presentation that highlighted deferred maintenance needs such as heating systems, roofs, the fire alarm system, gym bleachers, and the elevator. There was also a discussion regarding Act 73 and its potential changes affecting the St. Johnsbury School, including the need for community conversations. The board reviewed the results of a community survey and discussed how staff responses would be helpful in preparing the FY27 budget. Additionally, the board adopted VSBA model policies related to Capitalization of Assets, Notice of Non-Discrimination, Personnel Recruitment, Selection, Appointment, and Background Checks, and Public Participation at Board Meetings. The Superintendent's report mentioned that budget information was still pending, including health insurance increases and tuition rates.

The meeting included a presentation from the Director of Student Services regarding the Alternative Program building and the special education shortfall. The board discussed and approved a draft statement regarding Act 73 and authorized discussions with the union for negotiations. They also adopted the FY26 Continuous Improvement Plan and several VSBA model policies, including those related to alcohol and drug-free workplaces, behavior threat assessment teams, employee unlawful harassment, pupil privacy rights, selection of library materials, and special education. Committee meeting updates were provided, and the board accepted the consent agenda, which included reports from the Superintendent, Director of Finance, Principal, Director of Early Education, and Director of Learning Design. The meeting also involved an executive session for negotiations.

The St. Johnsbury School Board meeting included discussions and actions related to board reorganization, including the acceptance of the Board Chair's resignation and the appointment of a new Vice Chair. The board also discussed and took action on the committee structure for FY2026, removing a policy related to the COVID-19 pandemic state of emergency, and adopting a policy on the prevention of harassment, hazing, and bullying of students. The board reviewed the Superintendent's, Director of Finance, Principal's, Director of Facilities, and Director of Human Resources reports. The meeting also included a presentation from the VT Rural School Community Alliance regarding Act 73 and its potential impact on rural communities.

The St. Johnsbury School Board retreat included a strategic plan update, which reviewed progress on Year 3 goals, professional development, assessment systems, and educational program improvements. Key initiatives such as new data systems, wellness programs, and curriculum developments were discussed, with a focus on social-emotional learning and personalized learning plans. The board approved the hiring of Kyle Wu as a Middle School Humanities teacher and Cari Giddings as a Special Education Case Manager. Additionally, the board discussed and approved a municipal lease option for LED lighting updates and other equipment.