The meeting’s most pressing topic was the financial report presented by an auditor who detailed the district’s current financial position. A concern highlighted was the district’s fund balance, which had decreased from $6.8 million in 2024 to $5.9 million in 2025. This decline was attributed to using the fund balance to help balance the budget, which had previously been drawn down too aggressively. The auditor pointed out the importance of the capital reserve for future projects, given the aging infrastructure of school facilities. The report underscored the challenge of balancing the budget within the constraints of a 2% cap on tax increases, a cap that does not align with rising inflation. Health benefit costs were also identified as an area of concern, with expected increases exceeding 15% in some instances.

The auditor addressed the projected $700,000 excess surplus for the 2026-27 school year, acknowledging that it would lead to a tighter budget as expenses continue to rise. There was potential to use some of the current year’s funds to mitigate the impact, but the overall strategy would need to adapt to limited revenue growth and rising costs. A recommendation to ensure accuracy in financial reporting was made, stemming from an issue where adjustments from the previous year’s audit had not been fully incorporated into the current financial statements. This issue was resolved, and transparency in financial reporting was emphasized as vital for the board’s oversight.

Following the financial review, the board turned its attention to the Advanced Placement (AP) program, which has seen considerable growth. A speaker reported that the high school now offers approximately 26 AP courses, with a notable increase in student participation. Over 301 students took part in AP exams, representing more than half of the student population. The speaker emphasized the academic challenges these courses present and their impact on college applications, saying, “What colleges really look at are what classes are you taking when you’re in high school? Are you challenging yourself?”

The data presented showed an increase in AP participation over the last five years, with the removal of the “testing in” requirement making the courses more accessible. The speaker explained AP exam scoring, noting that while a score of three is passing, a score of five is outstanding. Chemistry had the highest average score of 4.5, while biology had a larger number of participants with an average score of 3.3.

Recognition was given to students who achieved AP Scholar awards, with 45 students scoring three or higher on three or more AP exams. Further acknowledgment was given to 30 students who earned the AP Scholar with honor status, and 46 students who received the AP Scholar with distinction title. The board expressed gratitude for the students’ dedication and the support systems provided by families and teachers.

The meeting also included updates on extracurricular activities and community engagement. A report was given on the music program’s involvement in community events, fundraising activities, and the upcoming winter concert. Additionally, a student representative shared successes in fall sports and developments in winter sports, highlighting achievements such as the girls’ soccer team’s record-breaking season and the swim team’s fundraising for the Rona Children’s Fund.

The superintendent’s report focused on professional development initiatives aimed at restructuring tier one instruction to benefit all students. A “destination vision” for instruction was introduced, aiming to create a framework for effective teaching and enhance student agency, ownership of learning, and a sense of belonging.