Perry Hartswick

The meeting commenced with the approval of the consent agenda, which included the disposal of twenty surplus science tables from the High School. Personnel actions approved via the consent agenda involved the appointment of Jessica McRoberts as Account Clerk, Vincent Leggiere as a part-time Food Service Helper, and Elizabeth Rizzi as a School Psychologist with associated committee chairperson roles. Election officials for the Annual Meeting were also appointed. The Board amended the salary for Keegan Goudie, Licensed Practical Nurse, and corrected the probationary period for Samantha Lynch, The Elm Drive Principal. A childcare leave request was granted, and authorization was given to process tax refunds resulting from Small Claims Assessment Review actions for several properties. Co-curricular appointments for the 2025-2026 school year were approved, as were recommendations from the Sub-Committee on Special Education and the Committee on Preschool Special Education. New Business included the approval of financial reports, warrants, and budget transfers, along with the acceptance of donations from Christina Meyer (winter hats and gloves) and the Millbrook Education Foundation ($706.20 for STEAM T-shirts). The Board entered executive session to discuss the employment history of a particular employee before adjourning.

The meeting included a public hearing to discuss the Smart Schools Investment Plan, which utilizes funds from the Smart School Bond Act for safety and security upgrades. The proposed multi-phase plan focuses on upgrading the video management system (VMS) and access controls by migrating the VMS to the cloud, aiming to avoid increasing the tax base. The discussion confirmed that the project is fully covered by the allotted state funds of $324,471 and is not considered critical in terms of immediate failure, as it is anticipated to be about one to two years ahead of end-of-support. The board also addressed consent agenda items, including questions regarding chaperone supervision and dates for an overnight Model UN trip, and approval for January Regents exam tutoring sessions, clarifying that these tutoring sessions are separate from midterms.

The meeting commenced with the Pledge of Allegiance. Key discussions included the approval of the consent agenda, reporting on the Duchess County Bose Spotlight for February, and planning a future retreat for review and goal setting. The board addressed open seats on the Duchess County School Board Association and information sessions for prospective board members. A report highlighted ongoing academic and athletic achievements at Weber High School, upcoming events like the NHS ceremony and the Molly lunch trip, and preparations for a condensed mock UN conference. The superintendent provided an update on the budget development timeline for the 2026-2027 fiscal year, noting anticipated challenges due to legislative budget runs and consistent state aid cuts, exacerbated by rising insurance costs (Nicer insurance projected up 10-12%; health insurance projected up 16.5%). Revenue sources, primarily real property taxes (78%), and state aid projections were reviewed, noting that while Universal Pre-K aid shows a large percentage increase (36%), actual benefit depends on enrollment numbers. The discussion also covered the foundation aid formula, including factors like Average Daily Membership, wealth ratios, and people needs index, and the importance of maintaining and expanding academic supports.

The meeting began with recognition of Scholastic Art Awards winners across various mediums including painting, drawing, printmaking, and digital art. The Board received an update on financial matters, including a discussion regarding the expenditure of funds, facility usage, and grant focus. A key discussion point involved procedural etiquette concerning external mandates for the Superintendent. Board goals development, involving future meetings with legal counsel, was addressed. Reports highlighted student activities, including basketball performance and academic progress following midterms, with specific praise for student professionalism at games. Financial updates included the submission of capital project plans and the upcoming issuance of an RFP for external audit services. Significant concern was raised regarding rising health insurance costs (a potential 16.43% increase) and low state aid increases (1% foundation aid), leading to projected budget challenges. Potential positive news included an increase in per-pupil allocation for Pre-K. Legislative advocacy efforts were discussed, focusing on securing better funding, addressing teacher shortages, and civil service reform related to staffing positions. Additionally, concerns were voiced about public school money flowing to charter schools. The impact of recent heavy snow was noted, particularly challenges with snow accumulation in parking areas.

The meeting commenced with the recognition of NISPA scholar athlete teams and individuals for their academic and athletic excellence across various sports including volleyball, cross country, and soccer. A public hearing was opened to discuss the district-level safety plan addendum for the 2025-2026 school year, which included a mandated cardiac emergency response plan. Discussions also focused on improving communication and administrative presence with the student body. The superintendent reported on academic progress, noting detailed work in reading and writing at the P2 level, including student publishing parties, and in math focusing on shapes and basic arithmetic. The report highlighted the success of the PreK program, which is scheduled for observation by staff from the Morrow School District, and the implementation of the Sky Schools wellness program as a pilot at the middle school. Furthermore, efforts are underway to prepare applications for the National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence recognition for all schools. Community engagement was noted through advisory council meetings and the upcoming Spirit of Milbrook award event. Finally, a proposal utilizing smart school bond act money is being developed to upgrade district safety and security measures, including camera systems and door access.