Superintendent Diane DiGiuseppe announced the grant, which will support the planting of 12 large trees at Verona High School, four medium-sized trees at HBW, and several other trees at various elementary schools. This initiative is designed not only to improve the aesthetic and ecological environment of the campuses but also to involve students in the planting process. Participating students will be able to track the growth of these trees in their science classes. The program aims to mitigate the urban heat island effect, a phenomenon where urban areas experience elevated temperatures due to human-made structures, by increasing green space and shade.

The meeting also delved into a discussion on post-graduation outcomes for students. The board expressed a desire to better understand the paths students take after high school, including attendance at trade schools and higher education institutions. While acknowledging the challenges of collecting accurate data due to low survey response rates, the board emphasized the importance of tracking alumni achievements. An example of a 2021 graduate who successfully transitioned to employment at Apple after attending MIT was highlighted.

Regarding financial matters, a conversation about tuition rates for students revealed that the district secured county permission to maintain lower tuition rates for students already enrolled, despite a state mandate to charge the full per-pupil cost. This approval allows for a more manageable increase in tuition from $5,600 to $15,000, instead of the drastic rise dictated by the mandate. The board also discussed the application and interview process for tuition students, emphasizing the need to monitor behavior and academic performance, with the possibility of revoking agreements if standards are not met. Currently, the district is not accepting new tuition students in grades K-8 due to capacity constraints.

Another agenda item was the superintendent’s annual graduation report, which detailed that 156 students graduated in June, with 153 from Verona High School. Of these graduates, 29 utilized a substitute competency test, and 23 graduated via a portfolio appeals process. Only one student was denied graduation due to attendance, and none were denied based on test performance. The district is finalizing reports for the Department of Education and preparing for the upcoming school year, despite facing an $8,000 reduction in funding under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and uncertainties regarding Title fund allocations due to federal budget cuts.

The board also reviewed its attendance policy, noting a slight 0.2% decrease in attendance rates overall. While some schools saw improvements, Verona High School experienced a 1.1% decline. The board considered potential revisions to the policy if trends do not improve but decided to wait another year to further assess effectiveness.

In other discussions, the board addressed the need for professional development for teachers, aligning it with the board’s goals and teacher needs. The Marzano focused teacher evaluation model was highlighted, emphasizing the role of teacher leaders in its implementation. The creation of stipend positions for teacher leaders was proposed to address staffing challenges and support professional development initiatives.

The business administrator reported on the operational status of the district, noting that preparations for the new school year were on track, with facilities ready and the business office closing the fiscal year in preparation for the annual audit. The school meals program was also updated, introducing a healthier menu with a buffet-style offering and fresh fruits and vegetables at no additional cost to students. Feedback from families and students on the new menu options will be gathered in the fall.

Finally, the board discussed personnel and education resolutions, including strategic plans for managing class sizes and course offerings. A proposal for a virtual high school program was introduced to expand elective options without the financial burden of hiring additional staff, addressing declining enrollment in certain courses, such as world languages.