Robert Asaro

The Board of Education received a Superintendent's report covering updates on 31aa funding priorities such as elementary playgrounds and secure buildings, as well as construction progress on the new administration location and athletic space improvements. The Board approved the personnel report, first amended operating budgets for the 2025/26 fiscal year across various funds, and the bid award for Filter First drinking fountain equipment. Additionally, the Board conditionally approved an overnight field trip for the LSHS Media Productions group and engaged in commentary regarding student extracurricular achievements and foundation activities.

The Board of Education convened for a special meeting to address a student discipline hearing and a personnel matter. Following an executive session, the board took action to expel a student for 180 days with a provision for virtual learning through North Lake High School and established a timeline for reinstatement consideration.

The Superintendent provided an update on the school closing procedure, emphasizing factors like safe travel and temperature, and discussed the preference for advance notice, noting the utility of social media postings. The Board recognized the efforts of its members. Action items included the approval of the Consent Agenda and the Personnel Report, which involved confirming staff changes such as James Feldman's move and replacements for Robin Gill. The Board approved participation in the Schools of Choice program for Macomb County residents for a specified period. Furthermore, a Resolution was adopted to ratify the sale of the 2026 Building and Site Bonds, Series III. Approvals were also granted for a Change Order related to the Early Childhood Center Playground construction and the awarding of the bid for the Community Center Rock Climbing Wall to Rockwerx Climbing Walls. Board members shared updates on student achievements, fundraising activities, appreciation for staff, and reviewed infrastructure improvements, including the new ECC/Community Center.

The Organizational Meeting involved several key actions, including the election and appointment of officers for the year 2026: Kurt Ziegler as President, Sue DeLong as Vice-President, Elizabeth Munger as Secretary, and Amy Thomas August as Treasurer. Audience participation included a mention of the Holiday Help Program. The Superintendent reported on districts opting out of 31aa funding. Action items approved by the Board included the Consent Agenda, the Personnel Report (with a noted correction regarding a teacher's start year), establishing the calendar and location for regular meetings, appointing counsel of record for the 2026 calendar year, adopting resolutions for depositories of investment funds and savings/checking accounts, authorizing signatories for financial documents, appointing Plante & Moran as Auditor of Record, appointing the Board Treasurer as the MISD Budget Hearing Representative, appointing Amy Thomas August as the LSFEE Board Representative, and renewing MASB membership with the Vice President serving as liaison. Finally, Shannon Ketelhut was approved as the Administrative Secretary to the Board.

The meeting included several presentations covering key areas. Discussions focused on Safety and Security, detailing efforts such as threat assessment processes, emergency alert systems (core doors, thumb bolts, night lock barricade), and mental health supports (Care Solace, Social Workers). Student Behavior was addressed, noting an increase post-COVID-19 attributed to factors like screen time and distrust of authority. Student Achievement reviews focused on standardized testing apathy, attendance, and socioeconomic status impact. Finance and Facilities comparisons between 2016 and 2026 were presented, noting significant facility improvements. Future plans, labeled "2026 and Beyond," involved the planned adoption of the Thrun Policy and the launch of several centers and programs. The session concluded with a tour of the Early Childhood Center/Community Center construction site.