Julie Kukenberger

The Newmarket School District's budget proposal for FY26 focuses on maintaining a nearly flat operational budget with a 1.97% increase while supporting school growth plans and capital improvements. Key discussion points include staffing adjustments, with a reduction of 2.58 FTE across the district, and efforts to increase efficiency through a new custodial services contract and health insurance plan. The budget prioritizes curriculum alignment, teacher growth, and the implementation of digital learning tools, with a strong emphasis on cybersecurity and data privacy. Revenue projections and expenditure breakdowns are provided, along with details on elementary and high school budgets, student services, technology, facilities, and general administration.

The Board reviewed nominated new employees recommended by the Superintendent and discussed leave requests of two employees.

The Newmarket School Board convened and immediately entered a non-public session to discuss the hiring of a Superintendent.

The board discussed updates on school reopening, including survey results on parent preferences for in-person versus remote learning and bus transportation. They also reviewed trigger points that could prevent in-person learning and updates from various work groups, including student life, teaching and learning, student services, operations, and health and wellness. COVID-19 expenditures were presented, along with potential funding opportunities to offset costs. The board also discussed a splash pad lease and recent donations to the school district. Job description changes for coordinator positions were reviewed to better coordinate curriculum, assessments, communication, and support for new staff. The board also covered hiring updates.

The board discussed changing the start time of the Junior-Senior High School, the Capital Improvement Committee, and vacant positions. They also reviewed professional development plans, including math programs and UBD work, and a multi-tiered support system for students. The unassigned fund balance to reduce taxes for FY22 and the school re-entry plan were presented. School board goals, public correspondence, the superintendent timeline, and additional NES Special Education Case Manager were also discussed. The board then moved to nominate new staff members and approve the Safety and Health Program and School Opening Plan.