Samantha Gomez

The meeting included several presentation items, such as the January Student Senate Report highlighting athletic achievements, student organization activities like a food drive, and plans for upcoming student events. A Professional Development Update was provided, outlining district efforts aligned with the B.E.A.R. Strategic Plan, focusing on rigorous instruction, support systems, and professional learning opportunities scheduled through April. Action items included the approval of vouchers and financials for December 2025, and the acceptance of a resignation letter for a Middle School ELA teacher. The Superintendent's Report covered recent district activities, recognized student achievements in the Scholastic Art program, provided updates on bond projects at Lincoln and Upton, and noted facility work including the competitive gym floor project scheduled for completion by the end of January. Legal updates regarding Human Resources and Special Education were also shared.

The meeting included a public hearing on the proposed 2025-2026 budget and millage rates. The Girls Club Flag Football Team was recognized for their State Championship. The Board also honored retirees. The 2025-2026 General Appropriations Resolution was adopted, and the SJEA Tentative Agreement was approved. The 2025 Millage Rates were approved, and Auditorium Audio Upgrades from TCP were also approved. The MHSAA Resolution was adopted. The superintendent provided an update on the Schools of Choice applications received for the 2025-2026 school year and shared current enrollment figures for Young Fives and Kindergarten.

The meeting included a Student Senate report highlighting student achievements, upcoming sports events, and the success of the 2025 prom. The board reviewed and approved the consent agenda items, including the minutes from the April meeting and various fund vouchers. The Berrien RESA budget and biennial election resolutions were adopted, and a bid for SJHS kitchen flooring and lighting was accepted. The purchase of Dell Chromebooks was approved. The Superintendent's report included praise for graduation's success, statistics on honors graduates, and information on elementary Book Bonanzas and Summer Send-Off programs. The upcoming "Step-Up" day for transitioning students and the closing Schools of Choice window were also discussed.

The meeting included discussions on future facility needs and an update on the AI Taskforce, emphasizing the gradual integration of AI to support teaching and learning. The consent agenda was approved, covering various items such as meeting schedules, depository designations, policy adoptions, and financial approvals. The addition of Boys Volleyball as an MHSAA Sport was approved. A second reading of NEOLA policies took place. The goals of the Superintendent were approved. The Superintendent provided updates on hiring, enrollment processing, IT network maintenance, and key takeaways from Thrun Law Notes, including search and seizure protocols and HR considerations related to FMLA.

The meeting included a Student Senate Report highlighting student achievements in sports, HOSA, Quiz Bowl, DECA, and the Scholastic Art and Writing Awards. A presentation on Elementary Enrichment Opportunities emphasized the impact of field trips on student learning and community engagement. Updates were provided on the Foundation and Maize and Blue Fund, including fundraising goals and upcoming events. The board approved a camera/door access project installation and authorized diplomas for graduating seniors. The Superintendent's Report covered topics such as the Bob and Carol Gerbel Fields dedication, Schools of Choice window, AI tools, FERPA, service animals, emotional support animals, and the closure of Brown School for a student's funeral. The board also convened in a closed session to discuss the negotiation of a collective bargaining agreement.