Joyce Bates

The agenda for this meeting includes procedural items such as the Pledge to the Flag and the reading of the district's mission statement. Key discussion topics cover reports from the President, the BOCES Representative, and the Ex Officio Student Member. Committee reports from Policy, Facilities, Communications, Transportation, Health & Safety, and Finance committees are scheduled. Under Old Business, there is a presentation on the Capitol Project by TKF Architects. New Business items include the Personnel Report, a Resolution to Approve a Contract with John W. Danforth Company for the 2026-2027 School Year, and three readings (Second Read) for Policy 5300 (Acceptable Use and Administration of District Digital Information Systems), Policy 5305 (Social Media), and Policy 6100 (Job Descriptions). Reports from the Executive Principal K-12 and Interim Principal K-12 are also listed.

The meeting agenda includes procedural items such as the Pledge to the Flag and reading of the Mission Statement. Presentations and committee reports are scheduled from various representatives and standing committees (Policy, Facilities, Communications, Transportation, Health & Safety, Finance, SBI). The consent agenda covers Business Office Reports and CSE Reports. New business items include the Personnel Report, approval for Community Use of Facilities Request with the Village of New York Mills and Yorkville for the 2026 Summer Program, approval of the 2026-27 School District Calendar, and several second readings/adoptions of Board Policies (2001, 2003, 2006, 2100, 2102, 2103, 2105). Furthermore, resolutions to approve the 2026 Capital Reserve Fund and the 2026 Transportation Capital Reserve Fund are scheduled for action. Reports from the Executive Principal K-12 and Interim Principal K-12 are also listed.

This document outlines the strategic direction for the New York Mills Union Free School District, aiming to create an educational environment that inspires confidence, builds character, and fosters respect, empowering every student. It establishes a vision for a K-12 school district recognized for academic excellence and strong partnerships, leading to meaningful opportunities and successful outcomes. Key strategic goals are centered around Student Achievement, Fiscal Responsibility, and Communication & Community, with core beliefs emphasizing a safe, equitable, and engaging learning environment that develops critical skills and prepares responsible citizens.

The meeting included the acceptance of the agenda and a procedural call to order. A major focus was a Capital Project Presentation by TKF Architects regarding updates to the gymnasium flooring, locker rooms, auditorium renovations (including plaster repair and acoustic soundboards), and the Phase 3 front entry work. Discussions on the front entry change centered on maintaining the physical footprint while repositioning the SRO office for better visibility and maintaining required egress capacity. Committee reports were provided by the Policy, Facilities, Communications, Transportation, Health & Safety, Finance, and SBI committees. New business included the Personnel Report, a resolution to approve the contract with John W. Danforth Company for 2026-2027, and the second reading of three policies (5300, 5305, and 6100). The K-12 reports detailed student achievements, progress report distribution, upcoming Regents exams, and the scheduling of a Social Media Safety assembly. The Superintendent discussed plans for utilizing emergency snow days, noting that April 3rd would be the first instructional day used if needed, and provided an update on the complex situation regarding a requested donation for the Mohawk Valley Jugglers Hockey Program. The Health and Safety Committee noted the review of the District Wide Safety Plan and the implementation of the Bulk Milk Machine received through a grant. The board also discussed technology upgrades, moving from Tenable to CrowdStrike Vulnerability Management.

The meeting included the President's message incorporating a BOCES update, where a student from the CTE Early Childhood Education Program was recognized. The BOCES Representative reported on the upcoming budget meeting, board terms, and voting dates. The Ex Officio Student Member reported on recent activities including the Semi-formal Dance and upcoming participation in the Heart Run & Walk, alongside a request from the Drama Club for program advertisement support. Committee reports covered policy review progress, facility updates including architect presentations on capital project modifications, and finance updates regarding the BOCES legislative forum attendance and ongoing budget considerations. The Capital Project Presentation detailed proposed modifications for Phase 3, focusing on redesigning the front entrance and vestibule for enhanced security alignment with new state guidelines, including SRO placement and display features. New business addressed personnel actions, the rescission and adoption of numerous job description regulations, and first readings for several Board policies covering member responsibilities and ground rules. K-12 reports focused on the approaching end of the first semester, administration of midterms and Regents exam preparation, student testing simulations, and disciplinary actions such as presentations on internet safety. The Superintendent's Report provided a preliminary budget overview, highlighting fiscal stewardship, considerations regarding the "Fiscal Cliff" and "Save Harmless Status," and the limited 1% increase in Foundation Aid. Public comments included distribution of materials for a benefit, and requests regarding opportunities for students to become Junior Fire Fighters, participation in the DWI program, discussion of a BOCES Fire Service Program, and consideration of a Property Tax Exemption for active volunteer firefighters. Board discussion concluded with acknowledgments of maintenance/transportation teams and updates on winter sports Sectionals.