18:46Public comments were dominated by discussions about the elimination of the STEM supervisor position. A concerned parent, Matt Perna, questioned the rationale for removing this role at a time when STEM education is gaining importance. He inquired if a non-STEM position would be similarly affected and sought information on how the district planned to manage STEM responsibilities moving forward. In response, an administrative representative explained the district’s financial challenges necessitating the cut. It was determined that the STEM supervisor position would be absorbed by current staff members with suitable experience in science and math education, as other supervisory roles in special education and humanities were also being eliminated.

29:25Class size adjustments at Lanning Elementary School also drew attention. Parents expressed concerns over the decision to collapse a section of first-grade classes, citing potential negative effects on educational quality. One parent pointed out that dividing a class into three groups over two years offered no clear educational benefits. The board’s policy, allowing the superintendent to assign students based on enrollment and space availability, was questioned. Parents were particularly concerned about the lack of transparency and collaboration with the township, emphasizing the need for a unified approach to benefit the community.

37:51Stephanie Pogarellic, a parent with a child at Lanning, highlighted the school’s challenges, including a higher number of students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and lower state testing scores compared to other elementary schools in Verona. She questioned the fairness of removing a teacher from Lanning, especially since a similar class at Forest received additional teaching support. Pogarellic sought detailed information on the discussions that led to this decision, stressing the need for equitable educational opportunities.

34:33Budget allocations were another focal point, with concerns about the potential use of reserve funds to address classroom size issues. Parents questioned the allocation of the unrestricted general operating budget and capital reserve funds. The administration clarified that capital reserves were earmarked for essential projects, such as HVAC upgrades, and were not intended for covering regular expenses like salaries.

02:50In addition to these concerns, the meeting covered several other topics. Superintendent Diane DiGiuseppe reported on two notable grants: the “Trees for Schools” grant, which aims to plant 45 trees across various school locations, and a grant for high-quality literacy screeners for K-3 students.

12:08The student report celebrated recent achievements, including the girls’ track team winning a state sectional championship and the participation of the VHS marching band and chamber choir in the Memorial Day parade. Prom was announced for June 4th at the Legacy Castle venue, adding to the list of upcoming student events.

14:20The education committee discussed the development of an academic enrichment program for grades 1-6. High-impact tutoring had reached 200 students, and a reading pilot program was set for board review. Professional development for teachers focused on community-based learning, with plans for an action plan for the 18 to 21 life skills program.

09:53The business administrator presented fiscal year-end preparations, including financial reports and a modest price increase for the upcoming school year. Three audit findings from the prior audit were addressed, with a focus on improving standard operating procedures.