One notable topics was the status of various construction and maintenance projects. The board discussed deficiencies in the submission for a pole barn project at the high school, which had not yet received approval. The construction firm, referred to as EI, was responsible for addressing these deficiencies. Additionally, the HVAC replacement project for the middle school office was approved for additional costs on May 28th, with bids due by June 18th. A single successful vendor emerged from this process, and the board was set to approve the bid that evening. However, issues with previous bids for other projects led to plans to reissue them, highlighting ongoing challenges with infrastructure improvements and the need for timely and effective project management within the district.

The fiscal year 2026 budget approval was another significant topic. The board expressed appreciation for the efforts involved in its approval, with agreements reached with both the Winslow Township Administrators Association and a tentative agreement with the Winslow Township Education Association. Despite these agreements, the board noted the absence of formal notification for federal funding allocations, which was causing concern due to its lateness. This uncertainty added to the district’s financial challenges, impacting planning and resource allocation.

Staffing shortages were a notable concern, with 46 positions unfilled across various disciplines, including special education and music. The lack of a grant writer was also highlighted, hindering the pursuit of available grants for programs such as computer science. These shortages and the inability to secure grants underscored the district’s struggles in maintaining optimal staffing levels and securing additional funding sources.

During the meeting, the board also reviewed the superintendent’s report, which included a discussion on food services during school closures. It was clarified that breakfast and lunch services would continue, with pick-up locations at the high school and School 3. Some deliveries were made to families without transportation, arranged in advance.

The board also addressed the effectiveness of the district’s public information officer. Concerns were raised about the officer’s contribution, particularly regarding community engagement and visibility at events. Some board members expressed dissatisfaction. There was a consensus among several members to discontinue the contract based on perceived inadequacies in service. The contract was set to expire on June 30, and discussions focused on whether to renew it with the communications consortium.

The board’s discussions also touched on the upcoming summer meal program, scheduled to commence on June 30 at the Chilterhurst Community Center and July 7 at Winsor Township School number three. The program, which has been well-received in the past, aims to provide essential services to the communities of Windsor and Chisler. Meals will be served on-site, with parents required to accompany students to ensure supervision and safety. The program’s operational details were shared to ensure board members could address community inquiries.

In old business, a motion was made to name the athletic track at Russell Bates after two individuals. This proposal, open for community input for around 180 days, faced opposition from some board members who questioned the vetting process and suggested alternative names. The board recognized the need to adhere to policy regarding naming facilities. After some debate, the motion to cease discussion passed, allowing a vote on the original motion.

New business included a proposal to hold only one board meeting in July, on July 9th, instead of two. This motion was unanimously approved. Additionally, the board discussed the need to complete an evaluation for Dr. Teach before the June 30 deadline. Due to scheduling conflicts, a special meeting appeared unfeasible, leading to the suggestion that the evaluation could be incorporated into the July 9th meeting.