Kelsey Flaherty

The board conducted a budget hearing for the 2026-2027 school year, focusing on the expenditure overview, revenue sources such as state aid and property taxes, and the three-part budget structure. Key topics included a proposed 11.18% increase in expenditures to $22,998,000, the addition of a second school resource officer, insurance cost increases, and ongoing capital project debt. The presentation detailed adjustments to teacher budget lines, the utilization of reserves, and the rationale behind a 2.9% tax levy increase. Additionally, the board discussed the impact of potential budget defeat, equipment replacement needs, and a bond proposition for the purchase of two school buses.

The board meeting featured several key discussions, including recognitions for the Odyssey of the Mind teams and the elementary school's 'Read for Ronald McDonald House' initiative. The board discussed the upcoming robotics competition and received a presentation on the 'WEB' (Where Everyone Belongs) middle school mentorship program. Furthermore, an athletics department report provided a winter season recap, highlighting scholar-athlete achievements and team participation numbers.

The board meeting included several recognitions for student and community achievements, such as a robotics competition update, a community fun run event, and an international trip by the outing club. Presentations were provided regarding the elementary school environmental club and community service club, highlighting their recent recycling initiatives, fundraising, and community service projects. Additionally, the elementary and high school Odyssey of the Mind teams presented their creative problem-solving projects, explaining their process of prop construction, cost management, and teamwork strategies.

The board meeting included several student presentations, specifically from the Robotics Club, which provided updates on their upcoming competition, and the Leo Club, which detailed their community service projects such as organizing the school's free outlet, participating in a facility tour for the blind, letter-writing campaigns to senior citizens and teachers, and upcoming plans for community beautification and local events. The meeting also addressed agenda modifications and general business.

The board convened for a special executive session specifically to address personnel matters. During the proceedings, a pro tem secretary was appointed to manage the record-keeping for the executive session. Following the discussion, the board concluded the executive session and formally adjourned the meeting.