Tonia Ritter

The organizational meeting focused on the election of officers for the 2026 calendar year, resulting in Tonia Ritter being elected President, Ellen Glass as Vice President, Jeanette Prestonise as Secretary, and Phil Hamilton as Treasurer. Key designations and approvals included setting signatories for payroll, school lunch, activity, general fund bills, and State Aid Note accounts, requiring various levels of authorization. The Board also designated J. P. Morgan Chase Banks, Horizon Bank, and Michigan School District Liquid Asset Fund (MILAF) as depositories for district funds. Furthermore, the Board set the schedule and location for regular meetings and work sessions for 2026, designated Thrun Law Firm, P.C. as legal counsel, appointed the Superintendent as the Electronic Transfer Officer (ETO), established the mileage reimbursement rate to the IRS rate, set the annual fee for meeting notices at $10.00, and set the annual salary for Board members at $500.00. Committee appointments for the Policy & Curriculum, Facilities & Athletics, and Strategic Planning & Community Relations committees were also finalized.

The resolution addresses the general appropriations for Byron Area Schools for the fiscal year 2025-2026, outlining the estimated revenues, fund balances, and expenditures. It includes details on local, state, and federal sources, as well as allocations for instruction, support services, athletics, and community services. The resolution also specifies the millage rates for operational purposes and the recommended action for the Board of Education to approve the proposed budget.

The strategic plan for Byron Area Schools aims to empower each student to achieve their highest potential through impactful learning experiences. It is structured around four strategic goal areas: Operations/Facilities, Academic Programs, Operations/Culture, and Communication & Engagement. Key objectives include developing facilities that support innovative learning, providing relevant academic opportunities, enhancing the physical and mental well-being of the school community, and improving communication strategies to inform and engage stakeholders.

The 2024-2028 Strategic Plan for Byron Area Schools aims to provide impactful learning experiences that empower students to reach their full potential in a dynamic world. The plan addresses key areas including academic programs (curriculum review, new program exploration, and increasing capacity of the CCRC), operations/facilities (master facilities plan, summer projects, and safety grants), operations/culture (well-being initiatives, and increased professional staff), and communication/engagement (improved communication strategies and stakeholder engagement). The plan is based on extensive stakeholder input and data analysis, revealing challenges in academic performance and enrollment. The goal is to significantly improve academic achievement and high school graduation rates through a collaborative effort involving students, parents, staff, and the broader community.