Manistee Area Public School District

The Regular Meeting commenced with the Pledge of Allegiance and Roll Call. Key actions included the approval of the agenda (with an addition) and the Accounts Payable Report. During Public Communication, several individuals addressed the Board regarding school behaviors, bullying issues, and Policy 5505 concerning student extracurricular activities attendance. The Audit Report for the Fiscal Year ending June 30, 2025, was presented, noting a clean audit but delayed single audit submission due to a federal government shutdown. Business items included the approval of Pay Application #29 for Noah Schneider, noting construction completion for the Madison building and pending licensing with the state, and the subsequent approval of the Fiscal Year 2025 Audit. New business involved a discussion about the potential date for a Study Session. The meeting concluded with an announcement of a Closed Session to discuss the Superintendent Evaluation, which lasted from 8:28 pm until 10:20 pm, followed by adjournment.

The meeting addressed semi-annual organizational action items, including authorizing depositories for school district funds, appointing school district attorneys (THRUN Law Firm, P.C., and Clark Hill), approving investment authorization for the Superintendent, approving the use of school credit cards, and authorizing the signing of checks, contracts, agreements, and purchase orders, as well as electronic fund transfers. Action items also included the approval of Pay Application #25 to The Christman Company for construction expenditures, and the hiring of three new teachers: Sara Boone (Science Teacher for MMHS), Heather Dean (ELA for MMHS), and Crystal Harthun (Beginner Kindergarten). Announcements included updates on Thrun policy releases, planning for a ribbon cutting at Manistee Elementary, details regarding an NMSLA Summer Dinner, and efforts to strengthen alumni communications.

The ATP meeting included discussions and decisions on various topics. A new funding request for book bins was approved. Reimbursements for seat sacks and a weather pod were discussed, pending receipt of invoices. The ATP is exploring a donation of gogo squeeze for future events. The apple nacho bar for staff was successful, and Gobble Grams raised $812.00. A movie night was proposed for January 23rd, pending approval, with details on costs and movie selection discussed. Santa's visit to MES and Kindergarten students was scheduled, and winter carnival bounce houses were reserved. The ATP will sell popcorn buckets at holiday concerts and use a backdrop for photos with Santa. Ticket sales for a prime parking spot were organized, and account balances were updated. The snow day fundraiser was tabled, and a slushy treat day was planned. The meeting was then adjourned.

The meeting included discussions on free athletic tickets for students, the role of a Behavioral Health Therapist, and State School Aid Act Section 31aa Funding. Updates were provided on special education funding, the Corrective Action Plan, and eligibility data. Early Childhood reported on enrollment numbers for MECC and the layout of the space at 1309 Madison. The board also reviewed the current cell phone policy and student handbook, but the policy review was tabled.

The meeting addressed a new funding request for a weather pod, approved moving the December meeting to December 3rd, and approved a teacher appreciation treat. Transportation and custodian appreciation goodies were delivered, and Santa's visit to MES Holiday concerts and MES was confirmed. Ongoing business included Wesco popcorn buckets and Gobble Grahams. World's Finest Chocolate sale forms were delivered, and a movie night at MES is being planned for January. The snow day fundraiser was tabled, and details for the Sleighbell parade were discussed. The ATP covered the cost of seat sacks and will host a silent auction during the talent show. The ATP will host the winter carnival at MES. The ATP will purchase books for classrooms and the new library using Scholastic Dollars. Financial updates were provided, including earnings from the book fair and Wesco Popcorn Bucket sales, as well as account balances. Slushy day was successful due to a donation, and Skinny pop was ordered for students with nut allergies.