Raymond Rivera

The Board of Education discussed various administrative and educational matters, including correspondence regarding AI policy and high school field issues. The Superintendent provided updates on student and staff achievements and upcoming events. Reports were given on student government, policy, and audit committee activities. Personnel actions were taken, including resignations, leaves, and appointments. The Board approved the Tax Warrant for the 2026-2027 school year, accepted CSE/CPSE recommendations, and authorized an internal auditor's risk assessment and corrective action plan. Several policy revisions were reviewed and approved. Additionally, the Board appointed an architect and engineering firm for a Building Condition Survey, approved a welfare benefit plan, authorized budget increases for tax certiorari refunds, and approved instructional services agreements for the 2026-2027 school year.

The committee reviewed the 2025-26 budget development process and prepared for the 2027-28 cycle, discussing the utility of budget resources and presentation formats. Key topics included evaluating communication strategies such as social media usage and newsletter language to improve transparency. The committee also assessed the 2025-26 fund balance status and recommendations for reserve distribution, alongside an update on the debt service related to the extension of a bond anticipation note and the reallocation of interest savings to cover increased transportation costs.

The meeting focused on the review of the committee worksheet and the preparation of various policies for upcoming first and second readings. Key discussion topics included the status of Code of Conduct revisions and a review of community feedback submitted regarding the draft Artificial Intelligence policy. Furthermore, the committee discussed future policy development items, specifically regarding Medicaid compliance and attendance requirements.

The committee reviewed the 2025-2026 and 2026-2027 committee worksheets and received an update on Code of Conduct revisions. Policy development efforts focused on several areas including attendance, students in temporary housing, diapering and toileting protocols, eligibility for co-curricular and extracurricular activities, and remote instruction. The committee also discussed Medicaid compliance training, the potential appointment of a compliance officer, and the preparation of policies for upcoming board review.

The meeting focused on an internal audit risk area review, where high-risk areas identified by the auditor were discussed, including cash receipts, payroll, human resources, and information technology. The committee determined to direct internal auditors to focus on information technology security for the 2026-27 internal audit cycle. Additionally, the committee reviewed a revised corrective action plan in preparation for consideration at the upcoming regular board meeting.