The discussion on the budget was multifaceted, with board members expressing varying views on the necessary cuts. One member was particularly concerned with the proposal for the board to raise the tax rate without community involvement, stating discomfort with the idea. There was also an emphasis on the importance of Middle School sports programs, with members urging a reconsideration of the proposed cuts to these areas. Despite the disagreements, the urgency of the situation lent itself to a collaborative approach, with a member noting the need to support the budget despite their reluctance due to the gravity of the circumstances.

The potential temporary nature of the funding was another cause for concern, as one member highlighted the risk of facing similar budgetary challenges in the subsequent year. The member stressed the importance of permanent solutions from the assembly and senate rather than one-time fixes. The board ultimately voted on several motions related to the budget, including approving the 2024-25 school budget, the health benefits waiver, travel reimbursement expenses, capital reserve withdrawal, maintenance reserve withdrawal, professional services maxim expenditures, and a corrective action plan.

Aside from the budget, the meeting also involved committee reports with the HR committee discussing personnel matters, job description revisions, the status of the HR department, upcoming staff recognition, and budget proposals. The education committee covered topics such as math standard updates, English for concurrent enrollment, course revisions, a new reading program, book adoption reviews, and the impact of budget cuts on educational programs. The operations and finance committee addressed budget specifics, contracts going out for bid, and pending legislation. The governance committee’s discussion was lighter, focusing on the budget and minor adjustments to the Strategic Plan. The board president reported on the long-term plan for the district, including the Strategic Plan, the portrait of the Hillsboro learner, the mission statement, core values, and objectives.

Public engagement was present during the meeting, with the open public comment period allowing community members to express their opinions on agenda items. A member of the public raised concerns about the bidding process and how rising costs might affect the community. Board members also took the opportunity to provide updates on recent events at the high school and discuss potential revisions to the Strategic Plan.

Questions were posed regarding funding sources for new programs like the phonics bridge to Reading Program, to which the superintendent clarified that funding would come through ESSER funds. Additionally, there was debate over a waste disposal bid, with concerns about potential cost increases in the coming years.

The meeting concluded with the approval of minutes, the first formal public comment session, the action agenda, and the final public comment period. It was adjourned following a motion that was approved by the board.