A notable highlight of the meeting was the approval of a new three-year contract for the superintendent, featuring a 2.5% salary increase in the first year and 2% increases in the subsequent two years. This contract also included a $50 monthly increase for health insurance. The discussion surrounding the contract emphasized that, aside from these changes, the agreement was similar to previous contracts. However, minor typographical errors delayed its finalization, with a corrected version expected soon. The agreement was characterized as conservative, with the addition of Juneteenth as a new holiday being the most significant change.

Budget concerns took center stage, with the superintendent delivering an overview of the anticipated financial landscape for fiscal year 2026. The budget anticipates conservative special education funding, with an entitlement of $1.6 million but a budgeted amount of $1.55 million, reflecting potential fluctuations. The library aid faced a notable reduction from $40,000 to $20,000, but there was a silver lining in the form of expanded student support personnel aid, which would help maintain funding for counseling and social worker services.

The board also discussed the community education fund, which is on the brink of a deficit, with a projected shortfall of $2,292 ending with a negative balance of $766,503. Historically, transfers from the general fund have been used to support community education, but none have occurred since October 2022. The board considered a potential transfer ranging from $100,000 to $200,000 to alleviate the deficit. This measure, while not resolving the deficit entirely, could provide much-needed relief.

Further discussions focused on fund allocation flexibility. The board considered transitioning funds from committed to assigned status, allowing for financial decisions to be made without prior board action. This move was seen as a way to enhance efficiency and streamline processes, particularly during the audit period. A motion to transfer funds designated for long-range capital improvements and bus purchases into a new category passed unanimously.

In addition to budgetary matters, the board approved a stipend for the superintendent for additional responsibilities outside regular hours. The stipend, totaling $2,300 for 2023, was calculated at $100 per meeting. This measure was approved swiftly.

The meeting also addressed surplus equipment, with the board deciding to sell unused items such as desks and chairs to clear storage space. The hydraulic lift, posing a risk to the newly repaired gym floor, was a particular focus. The board agreed to solicit sealed quotes for this item, retaining the right to refuse any bids deemed too low. This approach aimed to ensure a fair market value sale while mitigating potential damage concerns.

In other business, the board approved several donations, including $2,638.94 from WCA hoops boosters for state bus costs and $860.74 from wrestling boosters for state wrestling bus costs. The approval of the preliminary budget was deemed necessary to ensure operational readiness for the upcoming school year and to facilitate timely bill payments starting July 1.