Stephanie Cloutier Steinhart

The Board discussed various administrative, financial, and personnel matters, including the status of ongoing capital projects and district policy updates such as the transportation policy. Personnel actions included probationary appointments for a mathematics teacher, approval of additional hours for various staff members, several resignations, and tenure recommendations. Financial and business approvals covered the superintendent's employment agreement amendment, an extension of the teacher's association agreement, a change order for landscaping services, the appointment of legal counsel, salary increases for management and confidential employees, and the establishment of the Jeff Pasinello Scholarship.

The meeting included the presentation of the 2026-2027 school budget and the approval of tenure for various district staff members, including principals, teachers, and a social worker. The Board addressed Superintendent reports, including upcoming newsletters, website updates, and facility progress, and approved a BOCES resolution for the 2026-2027 school year. Additionally, the Board accepted various student placement recommendations, approved a special education services contract, acknowledged staff resignations, authorized an extension of a probationary period for a teacher, and reviewed financial reports for the school lunch program and district revenue. Public comment focused on a recent school trip and an upcoming event.

The board reviewed a presentation on the 2026-2027 district budget. Key discussions included capital project updates, student achievements, and the upcoming retirement and tenure celebrations. The board adopted a policy regarding the use of buildings and grounds. Actions were taken regarding the Questar III administrative budget and board election. Furthermore, the board approved student placement recommendations, various personnel appointments and resignations, the 2026-2027 school district budget, property tax report card, and an agreement for a school resource officer. Financial reports and a plumbing change order were also accepted, and an executive session was held regarding personnel matters.

The meeting featured a budget hearing for the 2026-2027 academic year. Key discussion topics included the proposed expenditure budget of approximately 32.6 million dollars, which accounts for a 3.55 percent tax levy increase at the tax cap. Officials highlighted accomplishments such as a 92 percent graduation rate, elementary class sizes under 25, and high-level safety awards. The presentation detailed budget drivers including significant increases in health insurance premiums, contributions to retirement systems, and the expiration of federal relief funds. Additionally, the district's ongoing investment in instructional resources, special education programs, facilities projects, and transportation operations was reviewed, emphasizing the board's commitment to maintaining extracurricular activities and support services despite financial pressures.

The board discussed several items, including the budget process and the timeline for its adoption. The food service director provided a detailed presentation on the new health and allergy-conscious initiatives, including the removal of peanut butter and the introduction of fresh local produce and higher-quality food products. The director also updated the board on staff safety training, equipment upgrades, and future plans for increasing revenue through state reimbursement programs. Additionally, the board discussed a proposal for a delayed school opening to allow for teacher professional development on a new math curriculum, and received a brief update on ongoing construction projects.