Joseph Brown

The committee reviewed school improvement plans for the Early Childhood Center, Gonzalez Child Center, and Benavides STEAM Academy, focusing on literacy, mathematics, social-emotional learning, and attendance goals. Discussions also included the recommendation to appoint a team doctor for East Aurora High School, the pilot of a new Middle School Spanish Language Arts program, and the introduction of an advanced welding course. Additionally, the committee addressed the disposal of obsolete instructional materials for middle school social studies, K-8 math, and middle school English language arts, and reviewed district-wide enrollment and attendance data.

The committee discussed various financial and administrative matters, including the presentation of district donations and monthly financial reports. Key topics included the transfer of funds into the Capital Projects Fund to meet audit recommendations, the 2026 amended budget, and the implementation of the Bentech platform to integrate benefits and payroll data. The committee also reviewed planned food service equipment purchases for multiple schools, amendments to food service contracts for grant program participation and renewals, and the initiation of Request for Qualifications processes for an employee benefits broker and insurance services. Finally, the proposed FY26 audit engagement with Crowe was reviewed.

The board discussed the proposed elimination of the student tracker program, formerly known as SEVAC. The administration cited the sunsetting of federal grant funding and the expansion of internal social worker capacity and partnerships with outside providers as reasons for the recommendation. The board heard extensive public testimony from individuals, including student trackers and families, advocating for the continuation of the program due to its role in providing mental health support, family resources, and advocacy for vulnerable students. Additionally, the student board members provided reports on new athletic program milestones, including the launch of boys volleyball and girls flag football.

The committee meeting covered several facility-related updates, including the completion of gutter work at Oak Park to address water drainage and prevent interior damage. A facilities assessment is underway to develop a comprehensive 5-to-10-year architectural plan for district projects. The committee discussed urgent repair needs for cracked and damaged bleachers at the middle school and the emergency facade repairs at Fred Rogers due to falling concrete. Updates were provided on roof drain repairs at the freshman gym, the replacement of a walk-in freezer at the Early Childhood Center, and elevator functionality issues at the high school. Additionally, the committee reviewed the sale and disposal of old property, discussed work order management and maintenance staffing needs, and considered a grant application for new water bottle filling stations.

The committee reviewed various donations for district students and families, discussed the March financial reports, and received a presentation on the FY26 amended budget, which required adjustments due to changes in evidence-based funding and audit-related transfers. The committee also addressed an ongoing partnership issue regarding tuition payments and discussed upcoming policy updates, specifically concerning sexual abuse education and parent opt-out procedures.