The board delved into the budget for the upcoming school year, highlighting the challenges of balancing financial constraints with the need to sustain and improve educational programs. A notable aspect of the budget discussion involved planned network upgrades, funded by a federal program covering 50% of the costs. These upgrades are set to enhance all wireless networks and infrastructure starting next year. Additionally, the board explored avenues to increase revenue by accepting more tuition students from other districts, projecting an increase of approximately $172,000. This strategy aims to offset costs and reduce the financial burden on local taxpayers by spreading expenses across a larger student base, ultimately decreasing the per-student cost.

The complexities of budgeting with fixed costs were another focal point, as 86% of the budget is tied up in unavoidable expenditures such as health benefits, transportation, property insurance, workers’ compensation, and energy costs. Health benefits alone are expected to rise by 9.66%, and energy costs by 15%, driven by the expansion of data centers. Consequently, only 11.8% of the budget remains for discretionary spending, including curriculum materials and other supplies. Despite these constraints, the board reported an increase in state aid by $41,000, though capped by formula restrictions on funding increases.

Tax implications for residents were discussed in detail, explaining a 4.334% rise in the general fund tax and an overall tax levy increase of 4.302%. These increases are primarily attributed to significant hikes in health insurance costs, allowing the district to exceed the typical 2% tax cap. For the average homeowner, this translates to an increase of approximately $212.72 in Branchville and $128.31 in Frankford.

The board also announced the upcoming implementation of a school breakfast program, necessitated by the district’s eligibility exceeding 10% for free and reduced lunch. Starting in September, this program will operate as a grab-and-go service available after the bell, with meals prepared in advance. Adult pricing for the breakfast was set at $3.

In addition to financial matters, the board celebrated student achievements. They recognized two “Frankfurt Heroes” for the month, eighth grader Andrew Ellis and sixth grader Joseph Pinto, for their kindness and exceptional manners. The acknowledgment of student council activities included plans for fundraising events and the upcoming talent show, “Frank’s Got Talent.”

The meeting also highlighted the contributions of Lauren, a teacher commended as the staff member of the month for her positivity and dedication. She was praised for her exceptional teaching and leadership qualities, receiving a Lowe’s gift card and a Visa gift card as part of her recognition.

The board addressed policy updates, notably reviewing the facilities usage policy and considering a sliding scale for charges to outside organizations. They also proposed requiring background checks for chaperones on overnight field trips, with an associated cost for the online service fee.

Infrastructure improvements were part of the discussions, focusing on a local recreation improvement grant awarded for regrading sports fields and improving drainage. The timeline for this project is set to begin in the summer, with the aim to complete it within the grant’s two-year timeframe. The school’s sewer project was also briefly mentioned, with delays attributed to awaiting information from the Department of Agriculture concerning funding opportunities.