The meeting began with attention on a social media post that had garnered widespread attention. The board clarified that the content of the post was not representative of the district’s values, stating unequivocally, “We do not condone the content or tone of the post in any way.” The employees involved were promptly suspended and removed from any contact with children, as confirmed by the board. The human resources department is handling the situation.

Transitioning to fiscal matters, the board approved the superintendent’s annual financial report and the annual cost report for the 2025 fiscal year. This was followed by the approval of the budget amendment report for June 2025. A comprehensive review of the 2025-2026 final millage and budget was conducted during the last public hearing before its adoption. The presentation highlighted a notable variance in the millage rate over the past decade, with a current increase of 0.36, driven by the required local effort mandated by the state.

The financial outlook for the district presented both challenges and adjustments. The 2025-2026 budget noted a $14.3 million increase in property assessments, contributing to the $658 million total final budget. This budget includes a general operating fund of $428 million, special revenue funds of $49.7 million, a debt service fund of $6.8 million, and capital projects funds amounting to $121.9 million. Adjustments from tentative to final figures were primarily due to actual versus projected financial outcomes.

During the budget discussion, the board addressed various reallocation issues, such as a $19 million decrease in capital outlay revenue due to project-related adjustments. The internal service fund, covering self-funded workers’ compensation and medical expenses, saw a reduction from $53 million in the tentative budget to $51 million in the final budget. The adjustments were attributed to the closure of financial books, including post-June payments.

In the public hearing segment, community members voiced concerns about financial management. Sharon Walsh questioned the allocation of over $10 million to the restricted fund balance, querying if these funds could support general expenses like curriculum or transportation. James Howell raised issues with the $8.3 million increase in material and supply expenditures, seeking justification for the spending jump. Other community members echoed these concerns, questioning budget priorities and allocations for emergency communications and competitive salaries.

The board provided assurances that district staff would address these concerns and emphasized the non-negotiable nature of the required local effort to secure substantial federal funding. Resolutions determining the fiscal year 2025-2026 revenue, millage, final budget, and educational facilities plan were adopted unanimously.