Michael Basinski

The meeting included a public hearing regarding the upcoming adoption of the 2021 calendar, with official adoption scheduled for March 18th. Action items approved by the Treasurer involved acknowledging and accepting donations, and approving a list of purchase orders. Superintendent action items included approving emergency repairs to McKinley Elementary for roof and brick stabilization, approving stipends, approving additional stipends, and approving an out-of-state field trip for Eastern Heights Middle School 7th-grade students. Personnel actions involved approving retirements, appointments of certified and classified staff, athletic supplemental contracts, payment of stipends for summer preschool program work, and approving the appointment of five new security officers. The meeting concluded with a motion to enter executive session to discuss negotiations with public employees and matters concerning public employee compensation, appointment, and discipline.

The meeting included introductions and acknowledgments. Board member discussions focused on promoting a spaghetti dinner fundraiser for a beloved teacher and coach battling cancer, and announcing the Literary Rotary Club's $50,000 scholarship offerings for 2018. Further discussion involved student support for the victims of Parkland, Florida, scheduled for the following week. Action items for the Superintendent included approving the job description for the Safety and Security Coordinator and approving the revised administrative schedule. A significant portion of the discussion centered on safety and security enhancements for new and current schools, including comprehensive planning, the role of consultants, weather hardening requirements mandated by recent legislation (hurricane resistance, specific glass durability), and the necessity of consistent, age-appropriate training for staff and students regarding emergency protocols for intrusions, fire, and weather events.

The meeting addressed concerns about bullying in schools, including a detailed account from a community member about her grandson's experiences. The board also discussed and approved several action items, including donations, a Honeywell upgrade, and various personnel matters. Additionally, there were discussions regarding student enrollment trends, upcoming school events, and resolutions for the sale of property and renewal of tax levies.

The meeting included discussions on bullying and self-harm, emphasizing the need for school-wide and community-wide attention. A qualified mental health specialist spoke about the importance of bringing these issues before the school board, highlighting student safety, prevention, intervention, academic success, and community impact. The board also addressed concerns about recent threats at the school, including evaluating building security and police presence.

The meeting addressed the procedures for meeting in person, with a target date in September, and the possibility of board members joining virtually. There were discussions about wearing face masks and potential audience restrictions. The board members also reviewed the back-to-school plan, including virtual and hybrid education models. The team is developing resources for parents, students, and staff to address mental health concerns related to the pandemic. The board also mentioned that they will miss Mr. Fennick, a coach who is leaving after 30 years.