18:43The meeting’s primary focus was on the district’s response to a substantial increase in special education enrollment, which has resulted in a financial gain of approximately $770,000. This influx has led the administration to recommend hiring two new special education teachers for the 2024-2025 academic year. One of these roles is to replace a departing staff member, with Jeremiah Johnson identified as a candidate for the position left by Sarah Phelps. Johnson, with a background in psychology and past experience in a similar role, is working towards his teaching certification. The second hire, Emma Sunquist, brings three years of experience as a secondary social studies teacher and is already licensed, although in a different subject area.

The board’s discussion reflected concerns about the licensure and experience of the candidates, emphasizing the importance of ensuring that new hires are capable of meeting the needs of the district’s students. Both Johnson and Sunquist will begin with individualized plans to obtain the necessary certifications. The high caseloads due to increased enrollment were noted, as was the need to collaborate with principals to assess and reassign staff accordingly.

05:56Financial discussions extended to the district’s fund balance, which showed growth of approximately $360,000 from the previous year, reaching around $8 million. This positive financial footing was tempered by discrepancies in expenses between the current and previous fiscal years, prompting inquiries into large purchases or expenditures. The board also reviewed the bond budget, noting a remaining $58,000 from a bond initiated in 2019.

26:23In another development, the board addressed the resignation of School Board Director Dustin Nania, effective July 15, 2024. The board unanimously approved his resignation, acknowledging his contributions both in meetings and the community. To fill the vacancy, the Personnel Committee proposed an open call for applicants, with interviews to take place in early August and a recommendation for appointment scheduled for August 19. This process coincides with the filing period for the November election, complicating matters for candidates interested in both the interim position and the election.

35:41The superintendent also sought to initiate contract negotiations, as his current contract runs through June 30, 2025. The Personnel Committee recommended beginning these discussions within the allowable timeframe set by statute.

50:30Infrastructure issues were another topic of concern. The condition of the bus garage parking area, described as being in disrepair, was highlighted. The board agreed to conduct a study, including geotechnical investigations, to assess necessary repairs. A budget of up to $16,000 was proposed to cover the associated costs, with an urgency to complete the work before the school year to avoid operational disruptions.

Additionally, the board approved postings for a full-time care professional to accommodate staffing reductions due to paraprofessionals transitioning into teaching roles. This position will incorporate healthcare duties to address the school nurse’s request to reduce her full-time status. The need to post for a full-time custodian was also approved, following a resignation in May.

46:13The board moved to authorize seeking bids for essential supplies such as milk, bread, fuel, and snow removal for the 2024-2025 school year, a routine but necessary action to ensure operational readiness.