KristiAnn Phillips

The board discussed the closure of the fitness center to the public, hearing concerns and proposals from community members regarding its operation and funding. Financial matters included the approval of budget and revenue reports and various annual appointments for the upcoming school year. Personnel actions involved approving additions to the substitute list, student worker appointments, summer employment schedules, and accepting a teacher aide's resignation. New business covered policy updates, the appointment of a commencement speaker, the approval of a collective bargaining agreement with the secretaries' association, transfers to reserves, and a cross-contract for a BOCES program. An item concerning a mutual aid agreement for crossing guards was tabled for further revision, and an executive session was held to discuss personnel matters.

The board discussed upcoming budget workshops and events. Presentations were provided regarding budget assumptions and strategies for closing budget gaps for the 2026-2027 fiscal year. Personnel actions included the approval of maternity leave, tenure grants for multiple teachers, and various staff appointments including a Fitness Center worker, an extra-classroom activities treasurer trainee, and a long-term substitute English teacher. The board also approved a resolution to place a Powers Library proposition on the upcoming annual meeting and budget vote ballot. Additionally, the board entered an executive session to deliberate on personnel employment and negotiations.

The board reviewed and discussed the proposed 2026-2027 school budget and various financial reports, including budget status and claims audit reports. Personnel actions included the approval of several resignations, the appointment of a new Director of Special Education, and the approval of FMLA requests for staff. Under new business, the board approved the BOCES administrative budget and election, adopted the 2026-2027 district budget for voter consideration, authorized the property tax report card, appointed election officials for the annual meeting, and approved a cross-contract for a student to attend a BOCES program.

The Board conducted a hearing on the proposed 2026-27 school budget. Key actions included approving the appointment of a new Technology teacher and a teacher mentor, as well as abolishing several positions in physical education, elementary education, special education, English, and a teacher aide role. Additionally, the Board finalized the list of candidates for upcoming vacancies, passed resolutions for non-12 month employee salary assurance, approved settlement agreements related to a specific lawsuit, and authorized parochial transportation requests along with a budget transfer. An executive session was held to discuss salary negotiations for non-contract employees.

The board meeting focused on the development of the 2026-27 budget. Key discussion topics included health care, updated revenue estimates involving state aid and tax levies, and updated expenditure projections across departments such as transportation, athletics, and buildings and grounds. The board analyzed the current budget deficit and reviewed various department and building reductions to reach a balanced budget. Next steps were outlined, including monitoring state budget updates and preparing for the final presentation of the three-part budget.