A primary focus of the meeting was the presentation of the upcoming fiscal year’s budget, which revealed a projected deficit of nearly $880,000 for the 2025-2026 school year, before considering any tax levy increases. The anticipated increase in costs for health benefits, which are projected to rise by 11%, poses a challenge. This increase is expected to add approximately $451,000 to expenses, even after accounting for employee contributions. The board examined the potential impact of salary increases, noting that a 3% raise would add an additional $427,000 to the budget, with each quarter percent increase costing about $35,648.

Further compounding the budgetary pressures, reductions in funding for medically related services were highlighted. The current funding of nearly $32,000 is set to decrease to approximately $4,500, a reduction of over $25,000. Rising energy and transportation costs, including fuel and repairs, are also expected to exceed 2%, further straining the budget. The board is exploring options such as using bank cap provisions to potentially levy up to 4.63% without requiring a public vote, though a 2.5% increase is recommended to meet budgetary needs.

In light of these financial constraints, the board is considering strategic staffing changes. A decrease in Full-Time Equivalent Employees (FTEEs) from 199 to 183 is projected to save over a million dollars. The board is keenly aware of the reliance on Preschool Expansion Aid funds, acknowledging that losing this funding would make it challenging to maintain current staffing levels. A gradual reduction in staff through attrition is planned to avoid sudden personnel cuts.

The board also discussed plans to enhance revenue through program development. They highlighted the evolution of the Polytech program, which is transitioning to a comprehensive four-year vocational education program starting in ninth grade. This shift will phase out traditional offerings for juniors and seniors. The development of a performing arts academy is also underway to attract and retain students, with initial plans to include dance and theater components. The academy aims to draw students from neighboring communities and mitigate the financial impact of Polytech tuition costs, which total $279,351 for the current year.

The meeting also included discussions on capital projects, notably the development of field space behind the new middle school. While plans for a regulation-size multi-purpose field were scrapped due to space limitations, a quote for a turf field was approved to accommodate various programs, including middle school softball. This move is intended to keep students on campus and reduce the need for external facilities. Additionally, the parking lot adjacent to the elementary school is set for improvements with permeable paving to enhance stormwater management.

In other matters, the board celebrated recent community events, including the first-ever pre-k expo and a “Touch a Truck” event for preschool and kindergarten students. These events emphasized community engagement and involvement, aligning with the district’s strategic goals. The pre-k expo featured performances and attracted significant attendance, including the commissioner of education.

Personnel changes were also announced, with Adam Wright introduced as the new high school principal, effective July 1. Wright, currently the principal at Manville High School, was welcomed by the board, with plans for meet-and-greet sessions with staff and parents.