23:46The meeting’s focal point was the approval of the district’s budget for the upcoming fiscal year. Robert Dvita, the school business administrator/board secretary, presented the financial details, noting a 4.1% increase in the general fund tax levy and a 6.8% rise in the debt service tax levy. These adjustments, unrelated to any new referendum, are part of the existing bond schedule. The net new taxes will amount to approximately $3.3 million, a 4.3% increase from the previous year. Dvita highlighted that the assessed value of the township had increased by 10.7%, influencing the tax implications. State aid also saw an increase of $551,000, or 8.2%, making up about 8% of the budget. Despite the rise in state aid, there was a noted decrease in revenues and surplus due to capital reserve withdrawals for approved projects. The total budget was reported at $89,380,691.

29:04Debate arose over the allocation of these funds, with classroom instruction and benefits accounting for 38% and 26% of the budget, respectively. Benefits, particularly health benefits, are expected to rise by 10%, although this is reportedly better than trends in other districts. Dvita announced the addition of new positions, including a special education teacher and several teaching assistants, while also addressing anticipated energy cost increases of 20% due to market conditions.

32:31A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to addressing discrepancies in the reporting of bullying incidents. Discussion ensued over the classification of cases, with some members seeking precise definitions of “founded” and “unfounded” within the context of reporting standards. Confusion arose over the total numbers reported, necessitating clarity on the reporting process and the implications of each classification. Four cases were discussed, with two founded and two unfounded, yet discrepancies in the documentation led to calls for a clearer understanding of the process.

40:22In addition to these primary topics, the board navigated various other agenda items. Personnel policy discussions included changes in assignments, temporary assignments, leaves of absence, and the affirmation of bullying investigation findings. The committee also acknowledged district retirees, thanking them for their service, though none were present at the meeting.

44:47The curriculum committee, although not convened that evening, put forward several items for approval, including home instruction services and the adoption of educational programs for pre-kindergarten and the summer band program. A notable point of discussion was the inclusion of handwriting components in the curriculum, specifically regarding the Wilson Language Foundations program. Clarifications were provided, indicating that while one program did not cover handwriting, another did.

47:15The finance, facilities, and transportation committee reported on various issues, including updates on mold cleanup at an elementary school, which insurance would not cover due to the absence of an active leak. Plans for further mold prevention and HVAC training were discussed. The committee also addressed rising health benefits, projected budgetary needs, and the scheduling of a referendum for future building projects. Financial motions were proposed and approved, including bills, donations, and contracts for services extending into the 2025-2026 school year, with the board expressing gratitude for donations from the Fill Burrow Education Association.

52:16An old business item involved the completion of the Chief School Administrator (CSA) evaluation, with a timeline provided for executive session discussions. New business included a report on a career day event at Eisenhower, highlighting its positive impact on students’ aspirations and the normalization of discussing individualized education plans (IEPs) and accommodations.