Palm Beach County School Board Faces $25 Million Shortfall Amid Salary Negotiations

Overview: The Palm Beach County School Board meeting was dominated by discussions on how to navigate a reported $25 million budget shortfall while attempting to increase teacher salaries. Despite financial constraints, the board presented a compensation package that includes a 1.5% recurring salary raise and a one-time cash payout equivalent to 1.5% of current base salaries.

Dunstable School Audit Reveals High Administrative Costs and Proposes Significant Restructuring

Overview: The recent Dunstable Board of Selectmen meeting delved into the operational audit of the Graten Dunstable Regional School District, revealing concerns about administrative costs and proposing significant restructuring. This audit, commissioned after a $619,000 financial gift from the town of Britton, scrutinized various aspects of the district’s operations, with a particular focus on administrative staffing, student services, and building usage.

New Providence Council Tables Bamboo Ban Amid Resident Concerns and Achieves Sustainability Silver Status

Overview: In a recent New Providence Borough Council meeting, attention was given to a proposed ordinance seeking to ban bamboo, labeled an invasive species, from residential properties. After extensive public feedback highlighting the impracticality of the 30-day removal requirement, the council decided to table the ordinance for further revision. The council also celebrated achieving silver status in their sustainability efforts, a rare accomplishment in Union County, which opens doors for additional grant funding.

Princeton School Board Addresses Rising Absenteeism, Revolutionary War Events, and Cell Phone Policy

Overview: At a recent Princeton School Board meeting, members focused on addressing chronic absenteeism, engaging students in Revolutionary War commemorative activities, and considering a potential policy change on cell phone use in schools. The board also reviewed the district’s matriculation report and discussed the 2026-2027 school calendar.

Grand Rapids School Board Faces $126 Million Retiree Health Benefits Liability

Overview: The Grand Rapids (ISD 318) School Board meeting concentrated on the issue of retiree health benefits, revealing a staggering liability of over $126 million. Superintendent Matt Grose presented a analysis of the current status of retiree health benefits, highlighting the complexities of managing benefits for 596 individuals, including retirees, spouses, and surviving spouses.