The capital planning discussion also covered a proposed parking lot extension by fiscal year 2029 to accommodate increased vehicle numbers. The approval of a temporary override to replace 11% of the KES roof was a point of gratitude, as it would prevent ongoing patchwork repairs. The focus then shifted to KIS, where pending projects from years past still require attention. These include maintaining previously approved projects and procuring bids, with priorities set for fiscal year 2028, such as replacing the hydro tank, miscellaneous HVAC repairs, and a chiller replacement, based on a recent building evaluation. Concerns about the aging roof at KIS were voiced, with a participant noting it already needs replacement, as ongoing minor repairs are insufficient.

Alongside infrastructure, the meeting addressed the broader financial landscape for Kingston schools. The projected level service budget for Kingston Elementary Schools for FY27 stands at $17,188,080. This increase considers various offsets and includes estimated circuit breaker funding and transportation costs. Despite this, the budget requires adjustments, such as cuts amounting to $362,436, which could impact educational quality. These anticipated cuts include reducing curriculum funding, eliminating full-time teacher positions, and reducing tech supplies. Class sizes are expected to adjust in response to these cuts, potentially affecting grades one, two, and four.

It was noted that the current numbers were manageable, but further discussions would be necessary, especially with the upcoming Silver Lake budget review. The importance of transparency with the public was stressed, emphasizing the significance of being under a 5% increase for the first time in several years.

In addition to fiscal concerns, the meeting addressed several policy matters. A significant topic was policy JJ, which sought to limit fundraising activities by parent-teacher organizations (PTOs). Concerns were raised that the policy’s current wording could inadvertently restrict fundraising efforts that benefit all students. The consensus was that while the policy’s intent to ensure equitable participation in fundraising was valid, its restrictive language could disrupt valuable fundraising practices. Ultimately, a motion was made to not move forward with policy JJ.

The meeting also featured updates from various subcommittees, although some had not met due to ongoing reorganization. Reports included a clean budget from the Pilgrim Area Collaborative auditors, with an anticipated surplus for Kingston. The negotiations committee noted upcoming talks with the teachers’ union and support staff, though meetings had not yet commenced. The policy committee moved to waive the second reading and approve several policies, with exceptions for ones that had not progressed.