Russ Patanella

The board meeting included a public comment period regarding the district-wide safety plan and code of conduct. A member of the Fairport Cheerleading Booster Club requested the installation of an indoor hoist system for cheerleading mats due to safety concerns. The board discussed the conclusion of the school year, expressions of gratitude to the community for the budget vote, and ongoing efforts regarding fiscal stewardship and communication. Additionally, updates were provided on the state budget, specifically concerning foundation aid, universal pre-kindergarten funding, and the extension of the zero-emission school bus mandate. Finally, the board touched upon policy updates and audits.

The board held a workshop focused on the implementation of updated grading practices and school improvement initiatives. Discussion topics included the school improvement team's work over the last three years, the adoption of a four-point grading scale to better reflect student proficiency and motivation, the role of subcommittees in refining grading policies, and strategies for maintaining student engagement through more equitable grading. The presentation also featured teacher experiences with implementing new assessment strategies and the use of rubrics to measure student growth.

This document outlines the proposed 2026-2027 budget and strategic objectives for Fairport Central School District. Key strategic priorities include supporting students through focused improvement initiatives, ensuring equitable access to programs, and strengthening pre-kindergarten education. The plan also emphasizes investing in modern, sustainable, and safe facilities, and maintaining long-term fiscal sustainability with transparency. Furthermore, it commits to utilizing research-based and culturally sensitive instructional practices, promoting professional development for staff, fostering civic responsibility in students, and providing access to a broad range of extracurricular activities and a safe, supportive school environment.

The board meeting centered on the adoption of the 2026-2027 budget. Key discussion topics included budget goals related to student initiatives and facilities, expenditure breakdowns across program, administrative, and capital budgets, and revenue projections based on state aid and tax levy limits. The board also reviewed enrollment data, class size targets, staffing reductions, and bus purchase plans. Furthermore, two voter propositions were presented: one for the acquisition of new school buses through the use of capital reserve funds, and another for the establishment of a new 2026 Capital Building Reserve Fund.

The public budget hearing included a presentation by the library director regarding the proposed library budget for the 2026-27 fiscal year, highlighting challenges such as inflationary pressures, vendor consolidation, rising utility and technology costs, and the impact of the tax cap on revenue. The library's proposed budget focuses on personnel and benefits while maintaining services despite fiscal constraints. The Superintendent also discussed the broader school district budget, emphasizing budget goals including student learning, facility maintenance, and fiscal sustainability.