Sarah Johnson

The regular school board meeting commenced after roll call noted the absence of one member who is reportedly doing well. Key discussion points included a review of the board financial audit, with follow-up requested next month regarding CIS 11 expenditures and associated subscriptions for value assessment. Policy 4,000 concerning students being out of district was briefly discussed in relation to open enrollment. The board addressed the drawing of the ballot order for the upcoming April 7th, 2026 election, which included several board members as candidates. The consent agenda was reviewed, during which discussion arose regarding the approval of purchasing a salt sprayer attachment exceeding a $5,000 threshold, which was pulled for further review. The board also addressed the need for hiring and retaining custodians. Administrative reports highlighted numerous achievements, including winter sports milestones such as wrestler successes, lacrosse team advancement to state tournament, and coaching achievements like a coach's 200th dual win. Plans for upcoming events, including a wrestling pep fest, a solo ensemble event, and a 'Build Your Community to School Day' focused on career pathways, were noted. The middle and high school parent-teacher conference attendance was reported, along with updates on National FFA Week activities and the development of the 2026-2027 master schedule and course catalog. Enrollment numbers for eCampus and remote learning students were also provided, alongside updates on spring sports start dates and a committee assignment to research competitive balance in middle school basketball.

The meeting commenced with procedural matters, including a review of the Board Financial Audit, focusing on CESA 11 optimization and subscriptions, and a GCSD Review of Policy (4000). The Consent Agenda involved numerous approvals, such as minutes from the January 26, 2026 meeting, accounts payable, financials for January 2026, and various staff actions including substitute teacher approval, coach hires/resignations, and support staff resignations. Several items were tabled, including the purchase of a John Deere Salt Spreader Attachment. Administrative reports covered winter sports career milestones, an update from the Director of Student Services on assessments, Medicaid reimbursement eligibility expansion, and progress on the coffee program. The Elementary Principal reported on parent-teacher conferences, Book Fair success, growth in the Turn the Page program, and FFA classroom visits. The MS/HS Principal report included updates on next year's scheduling, recognition of students in DECA, Wrestling, and Basketball, and enrollment in eCampus classes. Business Action Items included the approval of a professional staff retirement. Other tabled items included the 2026-27 District Calendar, 2025-26 Budget Adjustment, and budget updates. Action was taken to approve Summer School Dates and Transportation, an amendment to the Wellness Policy for fundraising, and an amendment establishing that Driver's Education is for district resident students only.

The meeting commenced with roll call confirming all board members were present, followed by a discussion regarding the board's financial audit, specifically concerning invoices totaling $4,160 for high school wraps and a policy query about expenditure thresholds exceeding $15,000. Discussions also covered invoices from December 18th for ScholarBuy totaling $24,400 for teacher laptops and Google Workspace programs, as well as Amazon purchases for tables and office/classroom supplies. A significant portion of the meeting involved reporting on a state convention attended, focusing on discussions around coupling/decoupling functions related to doctor schools versus public schools and the context of operating referendums, noting that many districts are facing challenges with staff salary compensation due to inflation and a shortage of incoming educators. Board Policy 3120 regarding driver's education was raised for future discussion in March to clarify whether the service should be provided to all district students or only those without local options. The agenda was approved, followed by open forum time. The consent agenda was approved after clarification on a shared services agreement concerning mileage charges for student transportation. Administrative reports included updates on child care services (Tiny Tutts, Tiny Toppers, Hill Topper Hang Time) showing strong enrollment and waitlists. Mental health services were discussed, noting an increase in demand resulting in the addition of Friday morning sessions, serving 35 students currently. Vision screening results from October, conducted by the Glen Health Lions Club, were reported, showing 33 referrals out of 329 screened elementary students.

The meeting covered several key items, beginning with the board financial audit, which reviewed expenditures related to hardware supplies, waste management services, and food provisions. A significant discussion involved the appointment of a delegate for the 2026 WSB delegate session, where coupling versus decoupling was noted as a prominent topic. The board addressed Policy 2000, establishing a committee for policy development regarding puberty education in compliance with state statute, involving health educators, administrators, clergy, parents, and students. Additionally, an Act 143 summary was reviewed to satisfy a statutory requirement for safety training reporting. The board received a notable donation of $1,200 in cash to completely pay off negative lunch accounts for 68 families, which required board approval before informing the families. Policy updates based on statutory and legal changes were presented for approval. The board also addressed Act 55, which mandates posting academic standards and report card scores on the website. A presentation was given by the DECA advisor regarding student participation in competitions, including a recent trip to Washington D.C. that involved extensive research and fundraising efforts by students, particularly the chapter president. The board approved the consent agenda items, including personnel matters like filling an FMLA coverage position.

The meeting commenced with the board financial audit review, confirming several invoices (for chemical supply, attorney fees, and mechanic work) were in order and detailed. Discussions followed regarding board election deadlines for incumbents and candidates. A key agenda item involved the WSB board 2026 legislative agenda, with plans to approve a delegate next month. The consent agenda, items A through U, was presented, leading to a detailed discussion regarding item T, the Tool Areas proposal, specifically concerning the HVAC maintenance contract, moving from NAMI to Cool Air due to performance and cost discrepancies noted in previous contracts. The board also reviewed the State Report Card released on November 6th, noting overall district performance, including exceeding expectations at the high school and middle school levels, while the elementary level met expectations. Attention was drawn to the changing formulas in the report card over the years. Further discussion addressed the creation of a new Co-Curricular Handbook to establish standards comparable to the Athletic Handbook for non-athletic activities such as yearbook and DECA. Finally, the Superintendent highlighted staff accountability and student behavior as ongoing areas of focus.