Shena Brandt

The special meeting was called to order at 4:47. The agenda for the February 9th, 2026 special meeting was approved. New business focused on the approval of Resolution 20252026-11, which relates to the selection of a construction manager and architect and the completion of contracts. Discussion clarified that this approval represents the first step in the process, with subsequent addendums detailing specifications requiring further board approval before projects move to bidding. The meeting adjourned at 4:50 p.m.

The meeting covered the Truth and Taxation public hearing for the 2025-2026 budget and proposed 2026 property tax levy. Discussion detailed factors affecting property taxes, how property tax is determined, and the comparison of school district levies to state averages. The 2025-2026 school year budget was presented, showing proposed revenues of $9,272,839 and expenditures of $9,586,555, resulting in a projected deficit of $214,184. Key levy components included a 3% budgeted increase for wages and supplies and a 5% increase for health insurance. The financial update through November showed revenues at 25% received against 41% expended overall, leading to a current deficit of $317,853.87. Business updates included preparation for the January 1st implementation of the Paid Family Medical Leave, work on the triennial Pay Equity Report, and ongoing construction contract review. The School Force Committee discussed proposals for a hammock garden, a ski and snowshoe event tentatively scheduled for February 25th, tree planting ideas, and remediation of buckthorn invasive species. The Facilities Committee discussed the prioritization of capital projects, focusing on exterior needs like roof, siding, brick, and windows before considering interior projects, and the need for more meetings to finalize plans.

Key discussions included citizen forum comments regarding policy on moment of silence and flag display, and a request for returning to open meetings. The finance committee reviewed the monthly budget report, noting revenue status across state, federal, and local sources, and expenditure tracking, concluding that combined expenditures are under budget despite a planned bond payment. A new food service equipment grant of approximately $24,000 was announced. Business office updates covered the implementation of Paid Family Medical Leave, resolution of issues with NISM Madison National account setup, and completion of the pay equity report, which showed compliance and required board approval for submission. The availability of W2s and ongoing work for unemployment and ACA reporting were also noted. In the calendar committee section, student count as of January 22nd was reported at 419 K-12 plus 16 Pre-K. Furthermore, the administration recommended naming multiple law firms (Peton Law, Kennedy Graven, Ratzwick, Roac and Maloney) to utilize specialized strengths for different legal needs, rather than committing to a single general counsel for all matters, noting that Peton is the current general counsel. The construction update indicated ongoing negotiations with Carl Sanderson and Widsth concerning contracts, with plans for further detailed review.

The meeting included a finance workshop providing a budget update for FY26 based on activity through January 31, 2026, noting that overall revenues collected were at 43.3% of the budget, and expenditures were tracking at 45.8%. Adjustments are anticipated for the revised budget, including reductions in salaries and supplies, and increases in employee benefits and purchase services. Other funds (food service, community ed, debt service) were reviewed, with community education spending noted as significantly higher than the prior year. Committee updates covered teacher meetings, a forest committee discussion on a tree planting program, and a facilities committee meeting regarding referendum planning and window upgrades. The Superintendent reported a student count of 422 K-12 plus 16 Pre-K, an increase of three students, and updates on construction contracts and bid packages for facility projects, including windows. Information was provided regarding the transition of compensatory revenue calculation to direct certification for FY27, which projects a potential loss of $43,000, and upcoming legislative advocacy events in March. The Principal reported on midquarter grades, a presentation by Native American author Mark Mint, and activities planned through the APAC committee, including grade-level specific projects and a reality check event for juniors and seniors. Additionally, an update was given on the disposal of 2023-2026 devices and plans for a summer network upgrade funded partly by a cybersecurity grant. Later, the financial adviser reported successful results from the bond sale approved in November, closing at a 3.21% rate.

The meeting was called to order, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. The primary business included the approval of the agenda for the special meeting of February 9, 2026. New business focused on the approval of Resolution 2025 2026-11 relating to the selection of a construction manager and architect and the completion of initial contracts. Discussion clarified that this resolution establishes the first step, and subsequent addendums detailing specifications will require further board approval before projects move to the bid phase. The meeting adjourned shortly thereafter.