North Branch Area Schools

This document outlines the North Branch Area Schools' Local School Wellness Policy, which is designed to promote good nutrition, regular physical activity, and the overall well-being of students. The policy focuses on key areas including nutrition promotion, nutrition education, opportunities for physical activity, other school-based wellness activities, adherence to nutrition standards and guidelines for all foods and beverages on campus, and policies for marketing Smart Snacks. It sets forth goals, action steps, and timelines to ensure a supportive environment for healthy behaviors.

The Board of Education meeting included student presentations, the recognition of National Merit Scholarship finalists, and varsity wrestling state qualifiers. The Board discussed and reviewed committee reports from the Long Range Facility Planning and Curriculum committees. Actions taken included the ratification of the 2026-2029 AFSCME Master Agreement and the acknowledgment of the Triennial Local Wellness Policy Assessment. The Board also conducted a closed session for a student discipline hearing, resulting in the suspension of a student for the remainder of the school year.

The board meeting included presentations on high school robotics and the LEAF program. The agenda covered financial reviews of accounts payables, food service bills, and a general financial update. Discussions and actions were held regarding the employment of a special education secretary, a review of five-year plans for curriculum, technology, and facilities, and the approval of debt retirement principal and interest payments. Additionally, the meeting included communications from department leaders and an overview of future items, such as board policy readings, upcoming presentations on literacy and esports, and AI integration initiatives.

The 2026 Board of Education Goals for North Branch Area Schools aim to continuously improve instruction for increased student achievement and college/career readiness, ensure financial stability through a budget prioritizing teaching and learning in a safe environment, validate the critical role of all staff members while fostering community partnerships, and support the integration of generative Artificial Intelligence to equip students with AI literacy skills.

The key discussion points included an update on district finances from the Finance Committee, which met on February 9, 2026. Action items approved by the Board involved the employment of Lisa Lawrence as a part-time Speech Pathologist and the approval of the Dean Transportation Contract for the term 2026-2031. Furthermore, the Board reviewed the Michigan Health Education Standards Guidelines adopted in November 2025 and affirmed the continuation of the district's current approved curriculum. District and high school updates were also provided.