Rebecca Palen

The meeting commenced with the approval of the agenda, followed by the consent agenda, which included the minutes of the last meeting and the financial statement/ledger. Discussions covered positive updates on student attendance climbing over 94%, upcoming events like homecoming and prom, and positive feedback received from a school safety site assessment regarding visitor check-in procedures. Athletic achievements were celebrated, including the boys' basketball team winning the Bourbon Tournament and the girls' basketball team setting a state record for three-pointers made in a game. Plans were discussed for an eighth-grade visit from Edgar Springs and a potential open house for parents during junior high volleyball season. The FFA's successful blood drive was noted. Administrative updates included juniors taking the ASVAB and scheduling the PreACT and ACT. Principal reports also mentioned the Army recognizing students for character traits (Honor, Selfless Service, Respect). Enrollment updates showed a slight dip but were expected to rebound with a new Pre-K student. Progress on the sensory room, which received a bank donation, was mentioned, as was the creation of a sixth-grade leadership team at the elementary level. Valentine's Day party scheduling and upcoming training for the new 'Everyday Math' curriculum were discussed, along with sending early childhood teachers to the Young Years Conference. Financial stability was highlighted, noting the district remains on the plus side of the budget and has a high reserve percentage, contrasting favorably with other districts facing potential funding shortfalls and transportation funding reductions proposed by the Governor. Staffing needs, particularly for bus drivers and interviews for a new IT specialist, were also addressed.

The strategic plan for the Newburg School District is centered on upholding CLASS (Commitment to Learning And Student Success) by fostering a supportive, challenging, and empowering learning environment for all students. Its vision is to cultivate lifelong learners who are adaptable, community-contributing, and equipped with critical thinking and problem-solving skills for future success. The plan prioritizes maintaining fiscal responsibility, supporting and retaining high-quality staff, achieving strong academic outcomes, ensuring safe and modern facilities, and nurturing a positive school climate and culture.

The meeting commenced with the pledge of allegiance and confirmation of a quorum. Key discussions included the approval of the agenda and consent agenda, which covered previous meeting minutes and financial statements. Administrative reports detailed stable enrollment and good attendance, and expressed gratitude for support of the K12 safety program. Significant updates involved a recent meeting with the Fire Department to increase collaboration, including plans for a docu-drama on head-on collisions in the spring. There were updates on student activities, such as senior portraits and a dodgeball tournament won by the Class of 27, as well as positive reports regarding student engagement with the CWCC facility tours and increased student success in FAFSA completion and college applications due to focused guidance. Financial matters included clarifications on updated bill formats to avoid double payments, adjustments for parking lot work invoices, approval for new camera installations, and a review of the annual insurance costs, including work comp and umbrella coverage. The presentation concluded with the beginning of an audit report review.

The meeting included discussions and actions related to the approval of the agenda, consent agenda items such as the October meeting minutes and the financial statement, and questions regarding bills for payment. The special education director presented a report including special ed stats, disability count, placement counts, staff information, strengths, weaknesses, and anticipated actions. There was also an update on the PAT program, including team members, families served, and screening goals.

The meeting included discussions about the completion of a flag pole project in memory of Pat O'Neal, technology updates, and action items related to AI policies. The board also discussed the AMI application, budget amendments, and bank bids. Facility plans were reviewed, including completed projects, goals for the current year, and ongoing issues such as roofing and concrete projects.