A primary focus of the meeting was the approval of the 2023-2024 fiscal year budget, which highlighted a projected deficit of $344,000. The board explored various strategies to mitigate expenses, including leasing buses and technology rather than making outright purchases, which could save the district funds over several years. The general fund balance was confirmed at approximately $3.2 million, with budgeted revenues of $26 million. Despite the deficit, the budget was unanimously approved.

Another topic was the increase in athletic fees for the 2024-2025 school year. The board approved a $20 increase to bring fees to $110, aligning with comparable districts and addressing rising sports activity costs. Concerns about the financial impact on families, particularly those with multiple children in sports, were discussed. Measures to assist families in need were emphasized, and the board agreed on the importance of ensuring access to sports for all students. The increase is seen as a starting point, with plans for further evaluation of the fee structure to ensure long-term sustainability and equity.

Contract negotiations were a focal point, with the board approving a new educational assistance contract featuring a 4% salary increase in the first year and a 3.5% increase in the second. Health insurance premiums remained unchanged in the first year, with an $11,000 increase proposed for the second year. The union representing educational assistance voted unanimously for the contract, signaling broad support for the agreement. Other individual contracts, including those for the technology coordinator and communications specialist, were adjusted to include salary increases and additional benefits, such as holidays and stipends.

The board also discussed cost containment measures, noting reductions totaling $1,015,300 for the fiscal year. These cuts, slightly adjusted from initial estimates, are intended to address budgetary shortfalls and prepare the district for future financial challenges. The board emphasized the importance of these measures while acknowledging the difficulties in predicting budgetary needs without complete information.

Further, the board reviewed the financial health of various funds. The food service fund reported a surplus, while the community service fund continued to face financial difficulties, largely due to inadequate funding for preschool programs. The board discussed the need for accurate student enrollment figures to inform future budget decisions and anticipated revisiting the budget in January with more complete data.

In addition to financial topics, the meeting highlighted achievements in student athletics and community engagement. Dr. Perry recognized the successes of spring sports teams, including the baseball team’s commendable season and state competition achievements. The importance of community support for these programs was noted, and plans for staff professional development were announced.

Board members also celebrated the marching band’s successful season and acknowledged positive feedback from graduation ceremonies. A grant for an Outdoor Learning area was mentioned.