Rachel Perala

The board approved revised General Fund bills, payroll disbursements, and various fund balances. The Superintendent provided a budget snapshot, legislative updates regarding snow days, and discussed collaboration with NMU and the foreign exchange student program. Administrative reports were presented for the elementary, middle, and high schools, special education department, and athletics, noting academic achievements and upcoming school events. Business actions included acknowledging several letters of retirement and resignation, hiring a new teacher, extending an administrative contract, endorsing an annual budget, and adopting policy updates.

The board meeting agenda includes reports and presentations regarding the Business Professionals of America National Leadership Conference, state solo and ensemble performances, a student presentation on Safe Routes to School, and an administrative review of annual student growth. Business items to be addressed include personnel matters, a bus liquidation recommendation, an MHSAA resolution, a school year extension recommendation, and a closed session for the periodic performance evaluation of the superintendent. The meeting will also feature reports from the superintendent, building administrators, and various committees.

The board meeting included reports on student academic and extracurricular achievements, a superintendent's update regarding snow days and facilities projects, and department-specific reports covering kindergarten registration, music performances, testing schedules, and athletic season summaries. Business actions included hiring a new bus driver, accepting a bus financing bid, and conducting a first reading of policy updates. Additionally, the meeting included community comments regarding staff stipends and discussions on winter operations and snow removal processes.

The board discussed various operational and administrative matters, including facility updates regarding heating and sewer systems, and community programs such as reading month and kindergarten registration. Presentations were provided on student initiatives, including STEM kit development and athletic achievements. Business actions included the acknowledgment of staff retirements and resignations, the granting of maternity leave, new hiring decisions for aides and coaching staff, the approval of the upcoming school calendar, the renewal of service agreements, and a resolution to participate in Schools of Choice. Financial disbursements and treasury reports were reviewed and authorized.

The meeting agenda was approved, followed by the approval of the consent agenda items, including General Fund Bills, December payrolls, and various fund balances as of December 31, 2025. Superintendent updates covered the upcoming ribbon cutting for new space at Aspen Ridge, the impact of Talon Metals, and a review of school bus accident protocol. Reports highlighted positive feedback on new middle school facilities, updates on NWEA testing, an upcoming snowshoe event, strong performance in athletics (including a new basketball scoring record), and results from a recent Medicaid audit. Business actions included the approval of two new Middle School Volleyball Coaches and the approval of the graduation list pending requirement completion. The Board also authorized negotiations and entered into a Letter of Agreement regarding the disbursement of 27L funds in conjunction with General Fund expenditures after a closed session discussion on the matter.