The meeting spotlighted Mr. Swansky’s impressive community engagement efforts, which have earned recognition at the state level. His initiatives, particularly in the realm of health science career opportunities for students, have been well-received. Board members praised his work, including providing gas cards to students to eliminate transportation barriers, facilitating access to career opportunities. Mr. Swansky’s presentation at a recent leadership conference was noted as highly successful, drawing a full audience and further leading to an invitation to assist with a state event. The board acknowledged the positive feedback received from the state regarding these community engagement initiatives.

The financial outlook of the district was another key topic, with the business manager presenting a report that projected a general fund deficit of $24,770 as of December 31, 2025. The report detailed that while the budget remains conservative, the actual figures could potentially be more favorable. Current general fund revenue stands at $3.9 million, representing 32.2% of the budget, which aligns with previous years. However, expenditures have reached approximately 42.2% of the budget, slightly exceeding past figures due to accelerated spending in supplies and equipment. The board recognized the importance of monitoring these figures closely to ensure financial stability.

The board also navigated the complexities of extended leave requests. A secondary staff member had applied for a five-year extended leave under the TRA, with the district expected to cover the employer portion of the TRA contributions. This request was unique due to its mid-year commencement and the staff member’s desire to continue some extracurricular involvement. The board discussed the need for a suitable replacement, noting that a licensed individual who recently completed student teaching had expressed interest in the role. Ensuring that this transition does not disrupt student education or the district’s finances was a priority.

The board emphasized the need for a clear, written policy to guide future decisions. There was a suggestion to align the probationary period for promotions with leave requests, allowing individuals to explore new roles with the option to return if unsatisfied. The conversation included concerns over the financial implications of hiring new teachers mid-year and the potential impact on student education. A structured approach to evaluating leave requests was deemed essential to prevent perceptions of favoritism and ensure that decisions are made in the best interest of the district and its students.

In addition to these discussions, the board addressed routine matters such as the approval of payment claims and the consent agenda, which included personnel changes and policy updates. Notable donations were also accepted, contributing to various school programs, including robotics and sports. A resolution was passed to review potential program and position reductions for the upcoming school year, a standard procedure to align with budget timelines.