Central to the meeting was a proposal to redefine the administrative framework within the district. Superintendent Michael Baumann outlined the role of Assistant Superintendent Emily McDonald, who will assume the responsibilities of the chief of staff. This position is designed to synchronize staff operations, enhance operational planning, and oversee budget inquiries. Baumann emphasized McDonald’s qualifications, noting her doctorate in education and superintendent’s license as assets for effectively managing district staff operations.

The board engaged in a conversation regarding the financial implications of these administrative changes. It was revealed that administrative expenditures had decreased from $7.4 million in 2018 to approximately $4 million in the fiscal year 2023, representing 2.9% of the district’s budget. However, there was a consensus that the proposed changes were necessary to support the board’s directives and address operational challenges without impacting the fund one budget.

Board members expressed concerns about the clarity of the new organizational structure, questioning whether executive directors would report directly to the assistant superintendent or maintain a “dotted line” reporting relationship with the superintendent. The system aims to facilitate necessary staff actions while maintaining accountability across different roles.

The board also addressed the district’s hiring practices and the need for a balanced approach to staffing. Concerns were raised about the salary scale, particularly the high average salary of $86,900 for teachers, compared to the median salary of $75,000. With over 63% of teachers at the highest salary levels, there was apprehension about financial sustainability. Discussions highlighted the importance of setting guardrails for hiring practices to ensure a balanced distribution of experience levels among teachers.

In response to budget constraints, the board proposed exploring a zero-based budgeting approach for the upcoming fiscal cycle. This method involves reassessing the effectiveness of current spending and ensuring that funds align with strategic priorities. The proposal focused on district support services, pupil support services, and instructional support services. While the exercise is time-consuming, it aims to foster accountability and effectiveness in spending, aligning with the district’s mission and objectives.

The meeting also addressed the district’s financial overview, noting a projected increase in the overall fund balance to 15.5 million, with a 7.3% improvement in the fund balance percentage. The board acknowledged strides in the district’s financial health over the past three years, moving from a challenging position to a healthier one. The discussion included savings of approximately $6 million for the current school year, attributed to favorable weather conditions and staffing scenarios.

Additionally, the board reviewed the Long-Term Facilities Maintenance (LTFM) plan, which requires approval for future levy authority. The plan includes detailed projections for LTFM expenditures, with a proposal to bond approximately $21 million next spring to spread costs over several years, minimizing immediate impacts on taxpayers.