Resolution Authorizing Issuance of School Building Bonds and Renewing Capital Projects Levy Authorization and Calling an Election

Dissent: None

Moved by Unknown [0:45:50] · Seconded by Unknown [0:45:55]

The board discussed a recommendation to call a special election on May 12, 2026, for two ballot questions. The first question involves a bond referendum to address critical facility needs such as aging mechanical, plumbing, and electrical systems, roofing, exterior repairs, safety improvements, and ADA accessibility. This investment, the first significant one since 2013, is projected to cost less than $12 per month for a $300,000 home. The second question is a tax-neutral renewal of the existing capital projects levy, which funds safety, security, cyber security, and technology needs (e.g., security cameras, phone systems, tech infrastructure). The urgency was emphasized due to the 2022 facilities study identifying $150 million in deferred maintenance, and the escalating costs of construction inflation (5% annually). Board members highlighted the importance of being good stewards of existing facilities and leveraging the May election date to allow construction to begin in summer.

Approval of the June 30, 2025 Year End Audit

Dissent: None

Moved by Unknown [1:07:30] · Seconded by Unknown [1:07:35]

The Finance Director presented the key findings of the annual audit performed by LB Carson. The district received an unmodified audit opinion, the highest possible, confirming compliance and transparent accounting. However, two internal control weaknesses were identified: segregation of duties within the finance department and monthly reconciliation processes. The team is actively working on corrective actions. The audit also noted a ~20% decline in Adjusted ADMs from 2016-2025, but the last two years showed promising stabilization. The district's total fund balance increased to $15.3 million, attributed to conservative budgeting, a past referendum, and good stewardship, providing approximately 11 weeks of operational funds.

Resolution Directing Administration to Make Recommendations for Adjustments in Programs and/or Positions

Dissent: None

Moved by Unknown [1:08:20] · Seconded by Unknown [1:08:25]

This annual resolution grants the administration the flexibility to recommend adjustments to programs and staffing as district needs evolve. The Finance Director clarified that this resolution does not presume reductions but ensures the district is prepared to respond thoughtfully and responsibly to changing circumstances. It marks an initial step in the adopted budget process for the upcoming year.

Reject Packer Activity Center (PAC) Ventilation Bid

Dissent: None

Moved by Unknown [1:10:00] · Seconded by Unknown [1:10:05]

The Director of Buildings and Grounds reported that only one bid was received for the ventilation improvements at the Packer Activity Center, submitted by CM Construction. This bid significantly exceeded the allocated budget for the project. Administration recommended rejecting the bid to allow for refinement of the project scope with W Architects and re-bidding the project to obtain more competitive pricing. The low bid response was attributed to timing, as the bid period coincided with the holidays.

Approve Grow Your Own Candidate Agreements

Dissent: None

Moved by Unknown [1:12:20] · Seconded by Unknown [1:12:25]

The Student Services Director presented the Grow Your Own program, initially launched in the 2022-23 school year as a tri-district initiative offering scholarships and teacher pathways. The program has expanded to include three additional staff members, primarily focusing on supporting them in obtaining special education licenses. The agreements formally define the terms and conditions for their participation during their educational journey. The board commended the program as an excellent way to retain dedicated staff and benefit students.

Approve Community Ed Fee Schedule

Dissent: None

Moved by Unknown [1:14:15] · Seconded by Unknown [1:14:20]

The Education Director and Finance Director jointly proposed an increase in fees for the Kids Choice childcare program and the community preschool program. These increases, approximately $10-$20 per month for preschool and $1 per daily rate for Kids Choice, are intended to address rising operational costs, particularly labor, and maintain the financial stability of the Community Education fund. A comparison with neighboring districts indicated that the proposed fees remain reasonable and offer good value, especially considering scholarships available and the three-day-a-week preschool schedule compared to some two-day offerings.