Lisa Bernabe

Key discussions included recognizing Christine Pittsley with the School Partnership Award for her historical presentation on slavery in Cheshire and honoring three students with Eagle Scout recognitions for their community service projects. An audience member proposed naming the library at Barnum School after Eli Woodbury and requested saving specific items from the potentially repurposed or demolished Chapman School. The Curriculum Committee reported on changes to the high school program of studies, the implementation of the District Literacy Plan involving the Science of Reading Master Class, and reviewed results from the PASS survey and Safe School Climate Survey, noting concerns about physical conflict and challenging student behavior. The Finance Committee detailed the current budget expenditures (83.9% expended as of December 31), the upcoming RFP for cleaning services, and discussed medical benefits trends showing a spike in December claims but anticipating replenishment via stop-loss reimbursements. A major focus was the 2026/27 Board of Education budget proposal, which was ultimately set at $100,149,080 (a 7.54% increase) after the Board rejected a lower initial proposal and accepted modifications that prioritized retaining instructional staffing while making aggressive cuts elsewhere. The Legislative Committee reported on discussions with state representatives regarding funding challenges like Educational Cost Sharing and Special Education Excess Cost Grants. Finally, the Board approved the budget increase of 7.54% for submission to the Town Manager and discussed the formation of the Calendar Committee and updates regarding Open Choice Enrollment projections and a required new Wellness Policy.

The Board of Education meeting agenda focused on several key areas. Presentations included the School Partnership Award for Cheshire High School and recognitions for Eagle Scouts. Standing Committee reports covered Curriculum, including updates on the 2026-2027 Program of Study changes (such as removing Project Adventure and Essentials in Biology, and adjusting Geometry levels) and the new CHS schedule; and Finance, which detailed the 2025/26 Financial Report as of December 31, 2025, and presented a proposed 2026/27 budget of $99,922,388 (a 7.3% increase). Other business included the formation of the 2026 Calendar Committee and updates on redistricting planning efforts, including managing waivers and the upcoming RFP for district-wide cleaning services. The Superintendent's Report detailed the proposed budget, addressing enrollment growth, staffing allocations based on redistricting, cost drivers like medical benefits and inflation, and the high projected middle school class sizes. Medical benefits stability and financial highlights were also discussed.

The meeting served as an overview to set the stage for the 26/27 budget development process. Key discussion points included analyzing redistricting options and their impact on enrollment and necessary staffing levels, noting the current elementary student-to-teacher ratio is high at 18.8. Transportation costs are expected to see a marginal uptick due to increased busing needs in certain neighborhoods. Medical benefits projections indicate a significant increase, potentially impacting the budget by $1.5 million for every 1% increase, with current projections ranging from 12% to 17%. The board is evaluating the continuation of transition kindergarten programs and exploring similar options for another location. Outplacement costs are escalating, currently estimated to be short of one million dollars. Other topics included contract increases for bargaining units (bus contract up 4%), the process for re-bidding the maintenance contract due to school reconfiguration and minimum wage increases, and the continuing effect of two years of budget reductions. The board is also modeling energy consumption for new buildings, which lack gas/oil heating, while exploring solar panel installation.

The meeting agenda included several updates and recognitions. Student representatives from Dodd Middle School provided a report covering initiatives such as a successful food drive benefiting the Connecticut Food Share, a pajama day fundraiser raising over $700 for the Connecticut Children's Medical Center, details on upcoming sixth grade orientation and book club discussions, and highlights from the winter music performances and the 'Seussical Jr.' musical production. They also mentioned an upcoming eighth-grade field trip to Gettysburg/Washington D.C. in May. Additionally, Cheshire High School recognized student achievements, including presenting the School Partnership Award to Christine Pittsley for her ongoing presentations on the history of slavery in Cheshire, and celebrating three students—Toyba Barz, Matthew Raldi, and Wal W Jawwick—for earning the rank of Eagle Scout.

The meeting featured several informational items following the standard call to order and public comment period. Key discussions included the mandated administration of the new CSDE Voluntary Family Reading Survey, with details shared regarding survey requirements, storage of results, and required support for families. The committee also reviewed PASS Data Results and Safe School Climate Survey Results, highlighting areas of strength and opportunities for growth district-wide. Furthermore, a STEM Coordinator Budget Request was discussed, emphasizing the need for a high school level supervision role to strengthen science and math instruction and support curriculum revision. The Assistant Superintendent provided updates on upcoming Kindergarten Registration, a staff collaboration early dismissal scheduled for January 16, and strategic staffing decisions related to redistricting.