0:00The board dedicated a portion of the meeting to deliberating the proposed tuition range for the upcoming preschool program, considering figures between $5,000 and $6,000 for a 10-month term. This tuition aims to align with rates in neighboring districts offering full-day preschool. With a focus on integrating both general and special education students, the preschool will feature three classrooms, each accommodating up to 15 students. Discussions emphasized the importance of finalizing tuition by January to facilitate timely enrollment. The board conducted a straw poll, with many members leaning towards a $5,500 rate, which will be finalized at the next meeting. They also discussed the potential for partnerships with local school districts to manage enrollment overflow.

53:30In tandem with preschool plans, the board addressed safety upgrades, particularly for the gym stairs, with a bid of $187,000 on the table—a price that, while $56,000 lower than previous estimates, still exceeded the budget by $75,000. The board acknowledged the urgency of the repair due to safety concerns, with one member stating, “These stairs need to be done and it is what it is.” The board intends to proceed, despite the budget overage, considering the safety implications.

The meeting also featured a detailed review of the district’s capital projects slated for summer 2025. Significant proposals included updates to the stadium field with a new turf installation, track replacement, and an expanded press box designed to meet both athletic and academic needs. The total hard costs for these projects are estimated at $1.7 million, to be funded from the capital reserve, which currently holds about $5 million. The board plans to allocate these resources carefully, taking into account potential market fluctuations and savings from completed projects.

37:54Further discussions touched upon the possibility of moving polling locations from school buildings to enhance security during elections. This topic arose from safety concerns related to the presence of strangers in school hallways during voting days. Alternatives such as churches or community centers are being considered, with ongoing discussions with the Board of Elections.

21:11The school calendar was another focal point, with members debating the placement of additional professional development (PD) days. The proposed calendar includes starting school on September 8 and accounting for snow days without extending the academic year into late June. A suggestion to schedule three consecutive PD days at the beginning of the year was met with divided opinions, balancing between maximizing collaboration time and minimizing disruptions throughout the school year.

1:10:15In new business, the board examined fiscal management strategies, including the allocation of funds for upcoming projects like the Hamilton parking lot resurfacing and the Syns Encounters project. Discussions also included the need to assess the condition of rooftop units at the middle and high schools, with plans to fund replacements through both the operating budget and capital reserves.

1:28:06Additionally, a student from the media club highlighted the benefits of the proposed press box, stressing its potential to enhance media program offerings.