The fiscal year 2025 preliminary budget presentation was particularly significant as it outlined the district’s financial forecast and planning strategies. The board focused on the importance of projecting high on Full-Time Equivalent (FTE) student numbers to ensure adequate funding. The base student allocation (BSA) was reported to have increased, which is of particular benefit to the county given its fiscally constrained status. Moreover, the transition to the comparable wage factor was discussed, which also plays a favorable role in the district’s budget.

The budget revealed a surplus of $34,000 and anticipated a 4.2% increase in taxable values for 2025. The projected unassigned fund balance for the general fund was approximately $18 million. The meeting addressed the financial impact of the Digital Academy of Florida on the general fund budget and the importance of holding reserves to cushion against enrollment fluctuations. It also touched upon the anticipated revenue from property taxes and sales tax for the Capital fund, stressing the necessity to protect these funds for future obligations.

The implications of the governor’s announcement regarding increased funding for teacher salaries were also discussed, with the focus on how it might affect the district’s existing contracts. The impact of the American Rescue Plan funds, which are set to expire in November, was mentioned along with ongoing efforts to allocate and spend these resources effectively. The board highlighted key dates in the budget development process, such as the tentative budget hearing and the release of the second certified taxable values.

Another topic of interest was the discussion on budget appropriations, where concerns were raised about the absence of data to support informed decision-making. The board approved new personnel allocation requests, reappointments for directors and administrators, and collective bargaining agreements for the Hendry County Education Association (HCEA) and the Hendry Educational Support Personnel Association (HESA), despite no representatives from the unions being present.

The adoption of the Middle School social studies curriculum and proposed policy revisions were also approved. The board engaged in discussions regarding the provision of feminine hygiene products in schools, emphasizing the need to address the availability of these essential items. Additionally, updates were provided on the construction of the PRK Pro building.

In a gesture of recognition, the board celebrated Melanie T’s 34 years of service to the district, acknowledging her dedication and the profound impact she has had on students and staff. The presentation by a representative from Sodexo on the school dining program was also a subject of interest, as it outlined the strides made in employee growth, wage increases, and the development and retention of staff. The increase in menu diversity and the transition from a la carte to reimbursable meals were noted, along with the positive financial impact on the district’s fund balance. The success of the summer feeding program, which utilized buses to deliver meals to rural areas, was commended.

The meeting did not present an update from the attorney and followed the usual procedures of an invocation, pledge of allegiance, and moment of silence for the passing of teacher Peggy Baldwin.