Menands School District

The Board of Education conducted an administrative budget vote for the Board of Cooperative Educational Services (BOCES) of Albany-Schoharie-Schenectady-Saratoga Counties, authorizing a budget of $16,094,723 for the 2026-27 school year. Additionally, the Board held an election to fill four vacant seats on the BOCES Board for the term of July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2029.

The board conducted a budget workshop and addressed several action items, including the authorization of a proposition for voters concerning the funding of the Repair Reserve Fund. Personnel matters were resolved, such as the termination of an aide, adoption of an updated school calendar, approval of a personnel agenda, and the rescinding of a resignation for a cafeteria monitor. Additionally, board members inquired about sewer drain warranty information, received notification regarding a public hearing on village speed limits, and noted upcoming deadlines for Little League sign-ups.

The Board discussed and took action on several items, including a budget presentation, the approval of various financial reports such as the Treasurer's Report, and the acceptance of contracts and donations. The Board also approved the 2026-2027 Property Tax Report Card, appointed election officials for the upcoming budget vote, and held a final reading of district policies. A key item was the adoption of the 2026-2027 budget. Additionally, the Board handled personnel matters, including resignations and retirements, and reviewed CSE/CPSE recommendations and substitute teacher appointments. The meeting concluded with administrative updates and a discussion regarding an executive session.

The board meeting was convened as a special session consisting of an executive session only. The agenda included procedural motions to enter and adjourn executive sessions and the public session, with the executive session dedicated to topics such as collective negotiations, the medical, financial, credit, or employment history of specific individuals or corporations, and matters related to the appointment, employment, promotion, demotion, discipline, suspension, dismissal, or removal of personnel.

This document outlines a district's plan for utilizing increased Foundation Aid funds during the 2023-24 school year, mandated by state law for districts with significant aid increases. The plan specifically details efforts to reduce class sizes through the funding of two elementary positions, aiming to provide more individualized attention and support for students. It also addresses student social-emotional health by establishing a school social worker and a monitor. The plan incorporates extensive community feedback, gathered through public forums and budget development meetings, which highlighted concerns regarding learning loss and heightened social-emotional needs in the post-COVID environment.