The audit report presentation by Valerie Dolan from Nisivaco was a part of the meeting, as it concerned the district’s financial health and compliance with state regulations. Dolan’s report underscored the importance of maintaining financial stability and making informed decisions regarding the budget. She emphasized that the district’s fund balance appeared healthy due to the referendum but would have been lower without it. She also stressed the importance of collecting federal grant funds diligently and brought up two formal recommendations regarding budget adjustments and federal grant reimbursements.

Board members were attentive to the financial report, expressing appreciation for the thoroughness of the presentation and raising questions about fund balances, capital reserves, and the operational budget. They discussed the necessity of transferring funds between line items to avoid operating in a deficit.

School climate and safety were other areas of focus during the meeting. The board discussed the district’s procedures for reporting Hib incidents, emphasizing the importance of a positive school climate that encourages the reporting of concerning behaviors. The board stressed the need for quick and effective investigation of Hib incidents, including timely notification of parents and reporting the results to the chief school administrator. Furthermore, the schools’ self-assessment for the anti-bullying Bill of Rights was reviewed, with Bayberry School scoring 72 out of 78 points and Valley View scoring 71 out of 78. These assessments are important for guiding the work of anti-bullying specialists and the school safety team.

Superintendent Julie Glazer announced the retirement of two long-time employees, Frankie Kerer and Maggie Kelz, acknowledging their years of service. The meeting also welcomed new business administrator Karen Bishop Johnson and recognized the contributions of Council President Christine Eid to school events and activities.

The board addressed school safety and security, discussing recent improvements such as security camera installations, digital mapping of schools, and the updating of facility use policies. Upcoming events included the introduction of the new school resource officer position.

Staffing issues were also on the agenda, with the Personnel Committee reporting on the approval of participation in a pilot program for expediting certificates for candidates. The Curriculum Committee highlighted concerns about staffing deficiencies over time and the limited resources available for curriculum writing and program review. The Policy Committee reviewed the Board of Education appointment process and policy 0143, discussing upcoming public candidate interviews for the board of education vacancy.

The operations and finance committee report provided updates on various projects, including the replacement of the PA system at Bayberry and the installation of security cameras. The district also faced an issue with donated Chromebook cases that were not compatible with the devices, which they are working to exchange for needed headphones. Additionally, the committee discussed removing the 5-cent per page charge for employees requesting copies of their personnel file.

The meeting concluded with the approval of action items related to the district and board of education goals, and discussions on the development of a strategic plan with specific action steps and measurable outcomes. Superintendent Glazer emphasized the need for community and stakeholder input in creating the plan.