Joseph Ballard

The meeting commenced with procedural items, including the approval of the agenda and the waiver and approval of Personnel Memorandums #2026-01 for both certified and non-certified staff as recommended by the Superintendent. Key discussions included updates from the Superintendent, a presentation from Riverside Principal Melinda Murdock regarding the primary students' start of the day routine, and the approval of revisions to the district safety plan following a Public Hearing held on December 3, 2025, in accordance with Desha's Law. The Business Manager's report resulted in the approval of Financial Memorandum #2026-01. The board also adjourned briefly for Special Education and Personnel matters before entering an Executive Session to approve CSE/CPSE recommendations.

The Oneonta City School District held a public hearing and regular meeting. The public hearing addressed revisions to the District Safety Policy, focusing on Desha's Law and student elopement protocols, including the addition of a Cardiac Emergency Response Plan (CERP). The regular meeting included updates from the Superintendent and Assistant Superintendent, a presentation from Oneonta Middle School, and a review of financial matters. The board also discussed personnel matters and approved CSE/CPSE recommendations for students with special needs during an executive session.

The committee reviewed the financial memorandum, including the extra classroom activity report, internal claims auditor reports, and the treasurer's report. An amendment to the Ravi Singh scholarship was reviewed, increasing the number of awards given annually. The tax collection report indicated that the District collected 91% of the total tax warrant. The contract with Mary Imogene Bassett Hospital for Sports Medicine was also reviewed. Additionally, a bus electrification feasibility study was discussed, and the internal audit focus areas for the year were identified.

The committee reviewed the financial memorandum, including internal claims auditor reports, declaring a Ludwig Base Drum as surplus, accepting a donation of two instruments, approving a signatory on district bank accounts, approving a contract update with Roxbury Central School, reviewing an amendment to the Harold V. Hager scholarship, and an approved capital project change order. The BTD Health Insurance consortium meeting was discussed, highlighting the impact of inflation on healthcare and potential increases to health insurance premiums. The committee also reviewed board policies regarding extra-curricular activities and discussed a 5-year financial forecast.

The meeting included updates from the Superintendent, including recognition of Mr. Baskin's retirement and the posthumous awarding of a high school diploma to Arthur Dewey Elmandorf under Operation Recognition. The Valleyview intervention process was presented, highlighting early identification and targeted instruction for student support. Updates were provided on career development planning and social worker roles. The board also addressed financial matters, and Oneonta Middle School shared appreciation for Principal Baskin. The meeting covered Special Education and Personnel matters, leading to an executive session.