The focal point of the meeting was the detailed presentation of the district’s budget for the upcoming school year. Superintendent Damian Kennedy, alongside Business Administrator Irvin Epsil, outlined a budget exceeding $36 million, with 46% funded by state aid and approximately 40% from the tax levy. The district’s financial management strategies were emphasized, with Kennedy highlighting how effective debt service management and property valuations allowed the district to maintain a zero tax impact and even provide a refund to taxpayers, equating to a $77 reduction per year for the average assessed home.

Key budget priorities included staffing, curriculum updates, and special education needs. The meeting detailed financial allocations to salary increases, new hires, and ongoing initiatives such as the one-to-one Chromebook program and cybersecurity updates. An expansion of educational programs was also a focus, with new career and technical education offerings and dual enrollment courses slated to provide high school students the opportunity to earn college credits.

The board also delved into the Response to Intervention (RTI) framework, a strategy designed to support students requiring academic or social-emotional assistance. This initiative involves identifying students in need early through universal screenings and teacher referrals, with a focus on enhancing reading proficiency by third grade and improving math preparedness.

Additionally, the meeting highlighted various district accomplishments and upcoming projects. Superintendent Kennedy recognized the success of recent student events, such as field trips to see “Hamilton,” Career Day, and academic achievements in athletics, with the track and field teams breaking sprint medley records. The district celebrated the recognition of teachers of the year, including Mrs. Adams at the high school and Mrs. Popawit at Bixby.

On the facilities front, plans were discussed for renovating gyms and auditoriums, with updates on the ongoing multi-year referendum project that remains on schedule. The district also reported nearly $3 million in grants secured for the current year, contributing to ongoing and new initiatives.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to discussing security enhancements. The district has implemented security vestibules at each school, allowing for secure entry and transaction windows for dropping off items. Other upgrades include a revised lockdown system with new clocks, 48 new doors, improved surveillance cameras, and two-way radios. Furthermore, the district’s cybersecurity strategy has undergone an update to safeguard against potential threats.

The addition of upgraded hydroponic equipment facilitates the cultivation of produce like lettuce and tomatoes, and the district continues to support sustainability efforts.

During the public comment segment, a resident named Diego, accompanied by his wife Sha Chen, raised questions about homeschooling their children and the participation of homeschooled students in district activities. The administration directed them to available policies online and encouraged further inquiries via email. Diego also inquired about the tax levy, seeking clarity on its implications for local taxpayers.

The meeting concluded with procedural matters, including the approval of minutes from a prior meeting, and the board transitioned into an executive session to discuss topics involving negotiations, litigation, and personnel. The session was deemed necessary, and the public meeting adjourned smoothly with board members supporting the motion.