Lockport City School District

The board meeting included the recognition of 2026 retirees and top ten graduates. Presentations were held regarding the Districtwide Safety Plan, the Code of Conduct, and the Athletic Code of Conduct. The Board received various financial reports and approved several items, including a contract addendum for universal pre-kindergarten services, a change order for capital improvements, and multiple donations for schools. Personnel actions were extensive, involving appointments for summer extended learning teachers, seasonal laborers, coaches, department chairpersons, and various staff roles, as well as the approval of tenure and resignations. Several policies underwent second reading and adoption, and updates were provided on state budget aid and a cell phone ban study. The meeting also included an executive session for confidential matters.

The Lockport City School District's Capital Project Proposal aims to modernize early childhood education facilities to provide a safe, accessible, and growth-oriented learning environment for its youngest students. Key priorities include replacing the outdated John Pound building with a new Universal Prekindergarten (UPK) wing at George Southern Elementary School, enhancing safety and accessibility through modern classrooms, a new playground, secure entrances, and improved parking. The project also addresses critical infrastructure needs across multiple elementary schools and is designed to be tax-neutral, contributing to stronger student outcomes and adding lasting value to the community.

This document outlines the Lockport City School District's Capital Improvement Project for 2021, a comprehensive initiative spanning two phases over three years (2022-2024). The project's primary objectives are to ensure a safe learning environment, maintain facilities, and provide competitive athletic venues. Key focus areas include addressing high-priority items identified in the 2020 Building Condition Survey, enhancing academic environments through classroom and lab renovations, and improving physical education and athletic facilities, specifically through track and softball field upgrades. The project is designed to be tax-neutral for the local community due to state reimbursement and strategic financial planning.

The meeting commenced with the Pledge of Allegiance and a Roll Call, followed by presentations on Orleans/Niagara BOCES Programs & Initiatives, the New York State Inspires Initiative, and updates regarding the budget and school designation. Key action items included the acceptance of Treasurers' Reports for October and November 2025 and the receipt of Certification of Warrants Reports for November 2025. The Board awarded bids for General Fund Capital Repairs, specifically for the Door Replacement project, to Erie Contracting. The Amended 2025-2026 Tax Warrant was approved. Personnel actions involved numerous appointments, including a retired substitute teacher, student observers/teachers, extra duty advisors, and new elementary education teachers, alongside the acceptance of several resignations and retirements. Several policies underwent a second reading and adoption, including those related to budget administration, facilities inspection, leaves of absence, personnel evaluation, and artificial intelligence. Educational services actions approved multiple overnight field trips for LHS Robotics, LHS DECA, LHS Girls Wrestling, and MBK Stand & Deliver. The Board also approved minutes from the Committee on Preschool Special Education and the Committee on Special Education. Trustee Newman provided a legislative update regarding the federal budget, universal child care proposals, online student protection initiatives, and upcoming association events. Following an executive session to discuss confidential matters, the meeting adjourned.

The meeting included procedural items such as the Pledge of Allegiance and roll call, followed by presentations from elementary school representatives regarding the mission statement. The agenda featured a budget discussion involving the Assistant Superintendent for Finance & Management and the Superintendent. Key actions included the acceptance of Treasurers' Reports for December 2025 and the receipt of General, School Lunch, Federal, and Capital Fund Warrants for the period ending December 2025. The Board approved an agreement with Playworks to improve recess and school culture, and an amendment to the UPK Agreement with the YWCA reflecting revised student enrollment and payment terms. Bids for General Fund Capital Repairs, involving door replacements at Lockport High School and Lockport High School West @ Charlotte Cross, were awarded to Erie Contracting. Personnel actions involved numerous appointments, including probationary and regular substitutes, as well as the acceptance of several resignations and approvals for retirements. The Board also approved a Separation Agreement with an employee. Policy first readings covered various safety plans and student health procedures. Legislative updates mentioned upcoming NYSSBA events and the need for timely budget funding approval before May 2026. Committee comments highlighted student achievements in sports and the arts, and the rescheduling of a cancelled Community Partnership Breakfast.