The public forum segment of the meeting revealed concerns from district employees, starting with Jodie Henman, a bus driver, who spoke against the potential subcontracting of the entire transportation service by the end of the school year. Henman emphasized the critical role of experienced drivers who have built trust with students and their families, expressing that outsourcing could jeopardize student safety and disrupt established routines. She urged the board to explore alternatives to outsourcing and to reassess current route structures for potential improvements.

Echoing similar sentiments, Trisha Evans, a food service worker, addressed the board regarding the struggles faced by her colleagues in transportation, custodial, and food service roles. Evans highlighted issues of short staffing, high stress, and inadequate pay, advocating for fair wages that reflect the value of their work. She stressed the impact that strong support departments have on student success and wellbeing, calling for contracts that ensure stability and dignity for the staff.

Kenan, a custodian with four years in the district, shared his personal struggle with rising healthcare costs, which have put a strain on his single-income household. He emphasized the need for fair contracts across all departments, including transportation and groundskeeping, to alleviate financial pressures faced by employees.

The board listened to these appeals as part of the public forum before moving on to other agenda items.

In other business, the board heard a detailed financial overview presented by Nancy Shelton from Murray, who reported the results of the fiscal year audit. The audit highlighted a common internal control finding related to the segregation of duties, typical for districts of this size. The district is expected to receive an unmodified opinion on compliance for emergency connectivity funds, with no legal compliance issues identified. Financial analyses revealed a slight decline in student numbers since 2021, which may impact future funding.

The district’s budget was dissected, showing an approximately 4.5% increase in revenues and a 6.8% increase in expenditures for the year. The district anticipates deficit spending but managed to increase the fund balance by $213,000. Revenues were slightly under budget, and expenditures were under budget due to unplanned leaves of absence. These financial discussions also included a comparison with state averages, revealing that the district’s expenditures remain below average, with a focus on maintaining a healthy fund balance.

The board also tackled updates on contract negotiations involving SEIU, acknowledging minimal progress and the union’s decision to file for mediation. The board expressed optimism that mediation could facilitate a resolution. Leadership transitions within the union were noted, with the current representative being reassigned, presenting potential challenges in ongoing negotiations.

Student achievements were another highlight of the meeting, with reports from various schools within the district. Notable accomplishments included the boys’ soccer team’s successful season, reaching the state tournament for the first time in a decade, and the girls’ soccer team’s impressive performance, culminating in a section championship. The middle school launched an after-school academic support program, and Pine Meadow School celebrated kindness week with creative activities.

The board discussed future facility plans, particularly the Riverview project, scheduled for the summer. Plans include early demolition work to avoid student disruption, with a timeline aimed at completing significant phases by late August. Optimism was expressed regarding the project’s progress, with assurances of experienced contractors overseeing the work.