New Buffalo Area School District

The agenda included a review of the Superintendent's Goals focusing on Data Driven Decision Making (including PSAT data review and target interventions), Academic Performance/Accountability, and Board Responsibilities (member expectation to complete 100 Series). Data Review covered Elementary, Middle School, and High School performance, along with NWEA/College Board and Data Wall information. The Strategic Plan Annual Goals were also reviewed. Other business items included updates on the Building Trades House (appliances/landscaping), Support Staff Contract Negotiations, the Communications Director position, Backpack Guidelines/Requirements, the role of AI and bullying, Daycare Staffing, and Career Day activities.

The meeting commenced with the Pledge of Allegiance and the appointment of a temporary secretary. Key actions included the adoption of the agenda and the election of officers, resulting in Denise Churchill as President, Stephen Donnelly as Vice President, Vanessa Thun as Secretary, and John Haskins as Treasurer. The Board unanimously approved the Consent Agenda, which covered setting the regular meeting schedule, designating depositories and authorized signatories, approving copy charges, election supervision, re-adoption of existing Board policies, posting legal notices, designating personnel for issuing work permits, and authorizing the Superintendent to sign property sale/purchase documents. Other topics involved staff communications, committee reports, a presentation on the Radio Program highlighting student projects, computer upgrades, and automation system implementation. The Board approved the e-rate bid from MOSS for access point upgrades, a Services Agreement with Chikaming Open Lands for nature study trails, the addition of cameras to five buses, the New Buffalo Area Schools Storm Water Management Plan, and the NBARA 2026 Annual Contribution Invoice. Discussions included the appointment of Board Committees and approval of recent personnel hires in transportation and athletics. The Board also authorized entering into contract negotiations with Leeward Ventures regarding the Bison Preserve Planned Unit Development.

The meeting included the appointment of a Secretary Pro Tempore and the adoption of the agenda and consent agenda, which covered approval of bills payable totaling $1,315,413.70 across various funds and financial statements. Key discussions included a presentation by the Junior Class advisors on planned prom fundraising activities. Cabinet members presented on the District Scorecard, detailing annual goals aligned with the Strategic Plan across Academics (focusing on proficiency, curriculum, and assessment), Growth and Sustainability (including facilities planning), and Culture and Community (covering anti-bullying, wellness programs, and community partnerships). The Board also approved the use of categorical funds under Section 27l(2) for educator and support staff compensation, approved off-schedule compensation for support staff, and ratified resolutions for the Publicly Funded Health Insurance Contribution Act regarding medical benefit plan coverage starting January 1, 2026. Further actions included approving the cancellation of the December 22, 2025, board meeting, approving the 2026 Daycare Handbook and Financial Contract, the 2026-2027 Daycare calendar, and setting the Adult Lunch Price. Discussions covered obtaining additional information regarding the Bison Preserve from developers and noting the last day of employment for an existing employee and an approved hire for an 8th Grade Girls Basketball Coach. The Junior Class Prom Fundraiser was also formally approved.

This Storm Water Management Plan for New Buffalo Area Schools outlines a comprehensive strategy to minimize stormwater pollution over a five-year permit term (2026-2030). Key programs include Public Education, Public Participation, Illicit Discharge Elimination, Construction Stormwater Runoff Control, Post-Construction Stormwater Management, and Pollution Prevention and Good Housekeeping. The plan focuses on educating the public, engaging stakeholders, identifying and eliminating illegal discharges, managing runoff from construction sites, ensuring long-term post-construction stormwater quality, and implementing operational best practices to protect water quality.

The meeting included presentations from The Habitat Company, Leeward Ventures, and The Southwest Southwest Michigan Community Land Trust regarding the PUD. An update was provided on the Performing Arts Center and STEAM building. The Board decided to rescind the 31aa Resolution passed on October 27, 2025. There was a discussion regarding the final evaluation of the Superintendent, the 31aa Resolution, the New Buffalo High School Class of 2025 Commencement Ceremony date, and the potential cancellation of the Board Meeting on December 22, 2025. The Board convened into a closed session to discuss the purchase of property. The New Buffalo High School World Travel Giveback Nights were approved, and the revised 31aa Resolution was accepted.