Nick Long

The board meeting included several recognitions for student and faculty achievements, specifically celebrating the Beta Club members of 96 Elementary School for their performances, the fifth grade plus students and their teacher for participation in the statewide stock market game, the Edgewood Middle School junior scholars for their PSAT achievements, and the 96 High School marching band for their state championship. Discussions also addressed the hosting of the upcoming state marching band championships and the historical success of the band program, including reflections on the program's development.

This report from Ninety Six Primary School outlines the progress made towards achieving goals focused on positively impacting student achievement and growth. The strategic priorities include increasing student performance in reading and mathematics, maintaining a high retention rate for non-retiree teachers and administrators, and ensuring parental satisfaction with the school's learning environment.

The board meeting included a report from the Superintendent and a review of the monthly financial report. Project updates were provided regarding classroom furniture, digital marquees, district office painting, and the demolition of the White House. Future projects such as track bleachers, new PA systems, and school interior painting were discussed, along with an overview of available capital project and bond funds. The Safety officer presented a monthly report covering fire and intruder drills. The personnel session involved the approval of employee contracts for the 26-27 school year, review of new hires, and notification of recent resignations. An executive session was held to address specific personnel matters, including contract releases and the hiring of new staff.

The board conducted a budget workshop for the upcoming fiscal year. Discussions included financial challenges stemming from declining student enrollment and local industrial closures, the need for fund balance management to meet state requirements, projections for state and county funding, reassessment impacts on tax revenue, proposed salary increases and steps, the utilization of CTE funds for personnel costs, and the negotiation of salaries for working retirees. The board reached a consensus to schedule further in-depth meetings to finalize the budget structure.

The board concluded an executive session and moved into a regular session. Key agenda items included the acceptance of an employee resignation, with the board voting to waive any potential breach of contract due to the employee's serious illness. Following these actions, the meeting was adjourned.