Paul J. Clark

The Special Business Meeting covered several actions approved under the Consent Agenda, including the appointment of an individual to the position of Crossing Guard with probationary terms, approval of a related Memorandum of Agreement, approval for Football Coaches Clinic conference requests for three staff members, and approval of an emergency transportation contract. Under Other Action Items, the Board approved an individual as a Substitute Teacher Assistant, though the subsequent approval for a Volunteer Coach position was withdrawn. The Board also moved into Executive Session to discuss the Employment History of Particular Individuals, reconvened to regular session to discuss Special Education Class Sizes, Retirement Incentives for Eligible Employees, and Grant Opportunities for Additional Funding, before adjourning the meeting.

The budget workshop focused extensively on reviewing and discussing the proposed 2026-2027 budget across various departments. Key topics included budget reconciliation from a prior presentation, salary adjustments in Special Education and Custodial departments, and proposed increases/decreases across Curriculum, Maintenance and Grounds (due to utility costs), and Operations Plant budgets. Specific discussions involved the proposed upgrade of operations equipment, security camera and server replacements funded partly by the SAFE Act incentive, and funding continuation for the Fresh Connections Club. Further discussions covered proposals for Fitness Center equipment replacement and the potential reinstatement of the Community Education Program and weight room access. Instructional budgets addressed professional learning for Really Great Reading, technology lifecycle options including the 1:1 program, and Mental Health First Aid Training. High School budget items included increased advertising costs and funding for piano accompanist stipends and tutoring for students with mental health needs. The Elementary School discussion centered on transitioning to a full-day Pre-K program and initiating an Elementary Swimming Program. Special Education discussions included increases for contractual services, tutoring, and funding for additional class sections due to growing enrollment. Finally, the impact factors on the overall budget, such as retirements, state aid, and spending efficiencies, were reviewed.

The Audit Committee meeting included a review of board reports from July to September 2025, addressing questions about specific checks and budget transfers. There was a discussion about the internal audit budget for the 2026-2027 school year, considering the possibility of conducting it every other year due to staff changes and the option to request an internal audit if needed. The committee also discussed a significant increase in health insurance rates for 2026-2027 and explored potential cost-saving measures, including the possibility of self-funded health insurance and hiring a consultant to evaluate different insurance companies.

The agenda includes a capital project update, a financial statement audit presentation, and a public forum. The consent agenda covers a range of items, including approval of treasurer's reports, extra-curricular financial reports, various personnel appointments, agreements, resignations, and donations. There are also approvals for conference requests, transportation requests, and memorandums of understanding. Additionally, the agenda includes building/department reports, committee reports, policy reviews, a superintendent's update, and board discussion on the budget calendar and upcoming meetings. The board will also discuss CSE/CPSE recommendations, FMLA leave, and expired food disposal in an executive session.

The strategic plan for Attica Central School District focuses on empowering and advancing education for a brighter future through a student-centered approach, promoting a positive and respectful culture, encouraging innovation and creativity, and building strong community relationships. Key commitments include enhancing student learning through hands-on opportunities and relevant curriculum, improving the student experience by fostering a sense of value and connection, engaging the community as a valued partner, ensuring responsible resource stewardship, and promoting the well-being of students, faculty, and staff.