Mr. McNulty, an auditor, presented the district’s financial health and stressed the tightness of the budget, warning that it would not take much for the district to find itself in a deficit situation. He emphasized the importance of maintaining consistent staffing in the business office to avoid challenges in financial management. This concern was echoed by a board member, who pointed out the need for the district to have adequate reserves to manage capital and building needs. The auditor’s presentation underscored the district’s need to carefully manage its finances, especially in light of the current spending ratios and the limited margin for unexpected costs.

Despite the budgetary concerns, the audit presented by Mr. McNulty and Mr. David MCN showed three clean reports. The general fund’s budget performance demonstrated excess revenue over budget and unexpended appropriations, contributing to a fund balance for the district. However, it was noted that the overall fund balance as of June 30, 2023, had decreased from the previous year. The Robbinsville School Board acknowledged the positive audit results, with Business Administrator Nick McCree commended for the third year in a row without any audit findings.

In an effort to enhance transparency and community engagement, the district outlined its plans to share important documents, including the plan and grant document, through its website and various communication channels. Superintendent Brian Betze confirmed that these documents would be made accessible, and the district would ensure the community is well-informed. The Superintendent also recognized the Board members for their commitment and celebrated the donation from the Be Kind Foundation to support student meal expenses. The upcoming public question on March 12th was addressed, with efforts to inform and engage the community in the voting process being a point of discussion.

Mr. Peter Oehlberg reported on the grants the district had applied for, clarifying that the awards from these grants would not affect the public question or the operating budget. The district successfully received a $7 million ROD grant for repairs but emphasized the need for additional financial support to address the fiscal challenges. Moreover, the district’s curriculum department was acknowledged for being chosen to present at a national conference, Texo, on utilizing data to inform instruction.

The meeting also covered updates on various school activities and events, including the Capital City Cancer Classic Foundation fundraising, the spring musical auditions, and the wrestling team’s success. The Pond and Sharon schools reported on their activities and the implementation of new programs like the Safe and Sure program and the robotics club.

Discussions on the potential impact of snow days on the academic calendar were held, with the possibility of adding school days at the end of the year being considered. The Superintendent highlighted the overall safety of the schools, despite reporting on acts of violence, vandalism, and HIB cases.

The board reviewed the 2022-2025 District calendar, plans for collaboration with the teachers’ association to determine the best schedule, and the Personnel committee’s efforts to realign positions to achieve cost savings. The Business committee focused on maintenance initiatives and discussed the need for a governance model for teachers applying for grants. The Community Relations committee deliberated on the communication plan for the public question and the implementation of a new communication software, Parent Square. The ad hoc security committee reviewed safety protocols and communication plans, while the ad hoc special education committee reported on the progress of the new special education parent advisory group. Lastly, the Technology committee celebrated the successful transition of a student system to the cloud and discussed the need for a D system.