Patty Baldes

Key discussions included the presentation of a 2026 Football Cooperative Proposal between North Greene and Carrollton, aiming for program sustainability and maintaining WIVC membership. The board reviewed and adopted the Certificate of Tax Levy for 2025, showing proposed increases across several funds. Revisions to Board Policies and Administrative Procedures released in PRESS #120 were approved. Resolutions to Abate Taxes for General Obligation School bonds Series 2017B and 2018B were adopted. Changes to the District Payroll Bank Account authorizing signer additions and removals were approved. The discussion regarding the Centegix security system was tabled for further review in January. An investment of $1,000,000 in a 7-month Certificate of Deposit was approved. An audit presentation was given, noting the need for improved segregation of duties, and the 2025 audit report was accepted by consensus. The board entered and subsequently exited a closed session. Employment actions included the hiring of a Play Director, approval of an extension to maternity leave, and the employment of a paraprofessional and a Daycare teacher.

Key discussions during the meeting included approving the consent agenda items, which covered minutes, bills, financial reports, principal reports, special education reports, surplus property, use of facilities, and acknowledgement of gifts. Open comment session featured a request to review the policy regarding home-schooled students' participation in extra-curricular activities and a discussion concerning the discipline of a high school student. The Board approved a recommendation for Patrick Donovan to continue construction work on "The Nook." Revised board goals were approved for posting on the District website. The Board accepted several resignations and one retirement, including a request to donate a retirement bonus to the North Greene FFA Program. Approval was granted for the installation of a grease trap in the High School kitchen by Lloeke Plumbing. The bid from R & E Builders for the new concession stand construction was approved. The submission of the SPARK Grant Application was approved. The District Risk Management Plan for the 2026-2027 school year was approved, and a review of the projected tax levy determined a taxation hearing was unnecessary. The Board acknowledged plans for the Class of 2026 Senior Trip, noting no formal itinerary approval was required as the trip occurs after graduation. The Board entered a closed session to discuss employee compensation, collective negotiating matters, and student disciplinary cases, reconvening to approve new employment actions for an interim educator position, a coach position, and an unpaid assistant coach assignment.

The meeting included consent items covering minutes, bills, financial reports, and various principal and special education reports. A significant portion of the session involved a closed session concerning employee discipline hearings, followed by an action item where a Mr. Savage was found guilty and immediately terminated based on documentation from principals. Key construction discussions included approving the demolition and removal of the concession stand building to Ballard Bros. for $5400.00 and awarding the exterior stairwell replacement at North Greene Elementary to JUN Construction for $8400.00. The board accepted the resignation of the JH Boys Basketball Coach and JH Boys Track coach. Employment actions approved tentative maternity leaves for two staff members and unpaid leave for another. Travel approvals were granted for Skills USA LEAD Conference and FFA National Convention overnight trips. A second closed session addressed multiple statutory topics including employee compensation, collective negotiating matters, and litigation possibilities. Finally, employment actions approved the hiring of several volunteer coaches and sponsors for the 2025-2026 school year.

The Board addressed several key items, including the renewal of the Treasurer's Bond, approval of NGE Renovation Bond, Jr/Sr.High Renovation Bond, Administration Reports. The board also discussed the election results, reorganization of the board, and election of officers. They reappointed the Board Secretary and Treasurer, reestablished the meeting schedule, and reappointed the auditing firm. Additionally, they approved the continuation of the banking institution, created a K-2 Transition Classroom, and approved resignations and employment matters. The District Literacy Plan for the 2025-2026 school year was also approved. The board entered a closed session to discuss various topics, including personnel matters and collective negotiating matters.

The Board convened to discuss employee discipline, specifically a hearing for Ms. Sandra Speaker, resulting in a suspension without pay. The implementation of the SIPC program was approved to provide discounts on equipment and certified contractors. A MOU for a Dual Credit Stipend was approved, providing teachers with additional compensation per semester for dual credit classes taught. The board approved a resolution authorizing the transfer from Tort Immunity Funds to pay an assessment to Egyptian Trust. Additionally, the board approved the Use of Facilities requests. The board also approved the employment of a Daycare Director, Daycare Teacher, and Daycare Assistant pending all approved daycare licensure and background checks.