Kearsarge Regional School District, SAU #65

The meeting included administrative reports detailing the hiring of a new KRHS head football coach, Sam Cavalarro, and the acceptance of the resignation of Assistant Principal Jason Hirschorn effective June 30, 2026. The Assistant Superintendent reported strong SAT and ACT scores for KRHS students compared to state and national averages. The Business Administrator requested and received approval for a $200 deposit into the Alex Gissler Scholarship fund, noting a favorable year-end estimate of over $3M. New business involved the approval of the PowerSchool maintenance renewal and the purchase of Trebron Virtual Environment Hardware, to be paid using E-rate funds. The 2026-2027 district calendar, including 180 instructional days, was approved, and the Preschool discussion was tabled. Sub-committee reports covered communications strategy, HR hiring processes, policy prioritization, and facility needs assessment for various schools.

The board received various administrative reports, including updates on superintendent travel, student wellness, and LNA program expansion plans. Several vendors were approved for professional development and operational needs, including Novak Education, First Educational Resources, Tasco for surveillance licensing, and Connection for display equipment. Additionally, the board discussed the potential implementation of the Capturing Kids' Hearts program and reviewed strategic planning timelines. Policy revisions regarding accident reports and student placement were formally adopted. Finally, subcommittee updates were provided, and an executive session was held to address an HR matter.

The meeting included the swearing-in of elected School Board Members and organizational actions such as the election of the Chair and Vice Chair. Board appointments were made for the School District Clerk, Deputy Clerk, Legal Counsel, Auditor, Treasurer, and Deputy Treasurer, along with the approval of designated banks and a discussion on the School Board Calendar and Sub Committees. Administrative reports were presented by the Superintendent, Assistant Superintendent, and Business Administrator. New business included discussions and approvals for technology purchases, specifically Tasco licensing for video surveillance and View Sonic mobile carts/stands, as well as sole-sourced professional development services from Novak Education and First Educational Resources. Policy revisions for Policy EBBB (Accident Reports) and Policy JCA (Best Interest and Manifest Hardship) were adopted on their second reading. Old business involved ongoing discussions regarding Capturing Kids' Hearts and the Strategic Plan. The session concluded with entry into and exit from a non-public session.

The board addressed several administrative and operational items, including the nomination of a permanent principal, the implementation of a new Dean of Students position, and ongoing updates regarding class-size caps and open enrollment. Significant discussions took place regarding student life, such as reports on the culinary class activities, student health initiatives, and a Model-UN trip. The board deliberated and upheld an appeal regarding bus service on Hogg Hill Road. Furthermore, the board approved an art field trip, authorized facility improvements including the refinishing of gym floors and window replacements at the Bradford school, and reviewed policy revisions regarding accident reporting and district placement.

The primary focus of the meeting was the school reopening plan, with building presentations detailing administrative considerations for safety, equity, and quality. The Superintendent reported on a teacher's resignation, which the board accepted. Key new business items included moving forward with a trial year for propane-powered buses at no cost to the district, and the approval of several purchases including KN95 masks, face shields, non-surgical masks, and furniture storage. A purchase for the SAVVAS Math Bundle and the Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Science Fusion program was also approved. The board also discussed adjustments to the upcoming school calendar, setting the start date to August 31st before a full week on September 14th. Discussions regarding athletics and special education services for IEP students were also held.