The school’s efforts to tackle cyber safety and bullying took center stage, with updates provided on initiatives aimed at educating both students and parents. A representative from the school, Albert Pineiro, discussed the successful presentation on cyber safety and bullying at the middle school and the scheduling of another session for the broader community. The board discussed the possibility of recording future presentations to make these resources more accessible to parents. Pineiro also touched upon the implementation of the Anonymous Reporting Act, emphasizing the need for disciplinary remediations and efforts to improve the district’s climate and culture.

In addition to cyber safety, the board grappled with the challenges of ongoing renovation projects. Rob Nutley from New Road Construction Management reported on the replacement of water closets at the high school. He highlighted that the retrofit, which had been an issue, would be undertaken at no cost to the district. However, board members expressed dissatisfaction with the delays and issues encountered, questioning the oversight provided by the construction management company. They emphasized the importance of learning from this experience to prevent similar challenges in future projects.

The discussion then shifted to a broader conversation about the lessons learned from the construction project. Board members, particularly Greg Esemplare, voiced frustration over the inconvenience caused to high school students and the need for improved oversight and communication during the construction phase. They suggested that additional oversight in the pre-construction phase could have averted some of these issues. The board also debated the responsibility for overseeing such projects and the necessity for regular reports to monitor progress.

Another agenda item was the progress on a new building for the school district. Lynn Hoag provided an update on the funding documents from the Department of Education and discussed the revised approach to the previous plan for a new building. The board members also debated the demolition of Cooley Hall and its suitability for accommodating young students.

The condition and potential use of a specific building sparked a debate among the board members, with Greg Esemplare criticizing its suitability due to space limitations and poor condition. The conversation extended to the financial and safety implications of using the building. There was also a call for more public input and discussion before proceeding with the acquisition of a property on Kings Highway.

Superintendent Chuck Klaus provided updates on the educational system, including changes to the FAFSA process and potential new graduation requirements. The proposal to require the completion of the FAFSA form for graduation led to a debate about its rationale and the possibility of allowing students to opt-out. Ethical implications and the practicality of the requirement were discussed following concerns raised by a board member.

Public comments included concerns about the behavior of middle school students and the management of school facilities. Suggestions were made for the appointment of a project manager for the bathroom renovation project, with a community member stating that it should not be the board’s responsibility to follow up on such issues.

The board also discussed sharing capacity and current enrollment data with the public, considering the implications of accuracy and potential liability. They proposed timing the release of enrollment numbers with advertising efforts and gathering voluntary notices of intent from families to understand enrollment trends.

Additionally, the board approved various field trips, educational programs, and personnel matters. Retiring staff members Ann Posadas and Scott Fleming were commended for their service to the school community. The meeting concluded with approvals of business and finance recommendations, including agreements with local law enforcement, budget transfers, and settlement agreements for student bills.