Timothy J. Bearden

The special work session involved the introduction of Panther, a vapor wake dog, to the Board of Education. Key discussions included an overview presentation of the bond review by the Associate Superintendent of Finance & Operations, and the Superintendent sharing district data and updates during a Data Workshop segment. There was no public comment provided for agenda or non-agenda items.

The meeting commenced with the approval of the agenda. Key actions included the election of officers for the 2026 calendar year: Mary Remenschneider as President, Darrin Duistermars as Vice President, Jim Otteman as Secretary, and Randy Schipper as Treasurer. The Superintendent provided an update on ongoing projects. The Finance & Facilities committee reported on discussions regarding monthly financial reports, transportation, capital projects, and the Non-Homestead Millage Renewal. Action items included the approval of a probationary contract for Shonna Van Kempen, adoption of the 2026 schedule for Regular Board meetings and Board Committee meetings, designation of the person responsible for posting public notices, and the appointment of Cynthia Martinez as the representative to the Ottawa Area School Board Association's Board of Directors. Furthermore, the Board approved a resolution calling for a special election on May 5, 2026, for the operating millage renewal proposal, approved the annual retainer contract with Thrun Law Firm, P.C. as legal counsel, and approved travel applications for the Dance Team and WOHS Band.

The meeting commenced following a performance by the West Ottawa High School Vocalaires and the Pledge of Allegiance. The Superintendent provided updates on several topics, including Los Lagos Expansion and AI Plans. Committee reports covered discussions on the MiLeap grant and AI community challenges by the Instructional Services committee, GSRP program overview and preschool research by the Student Services committee, and financial matters, capital projects, and budget amendments by the Finance & Operations committee. The HR & Wellness committee discussed administrative guidelines and center planning. Action items included the approval of probationary contracts for several new staff members, amendment of the 2025-2026 General Fund budget, approval of a Letter of Agreement with the WOEA regarding medical insurance contributions, approval for the purchase of elementary furniture and administration office furniture, approval for the construction of outdoor bathroom/concession facilities, and approval of various travel applications for student groups.

The Board meeting commenced with the Pledge of Allegiance. Key discussion items included updates from the Student Senate Representative concerning a Fall Blood Drive and school events. The Finance & Operations committee reported on monthly financials, a positive audit overview noting a 0.02% variance in internal controls, and Board approval items related to Section 31aa. The Michigan Association of School Boards' Annual Delegate Assembly report was also provided. Action items included the approval of administrative contracts for an Interim Director of Early Childhood and an Elementary Dean. The Board authorized necessary actions to opt-in to Section 31aa funds. Significant approvals were granted for renovation and improvement packages for Waukazoo Elementary School and Woodside Elementary School, scheduled for summer 2026. Furthermore, the Board approved the purchase of furniture for Riley Farms, six new IC School Buses, and new District technology. Travel applications for a Drama Club/Boosters event and a Fifth Graders trip were approved pending world situation review.

The special work session of the Board of Education included key discussion items such as a presentation on district data by the Associate Superintendent for Innovation & 6-12 Instruction. The Associate Superintendent of Business & Operations provided an overview of construction updates and purchases. The Superintendent also shared information related to 31aa and reviewed the corresponding resolution. Communications from the audience on both agenda and non-agenda items yielded no response.