Reader

3 is our monthly uh Personnel report 6.4 is our monthly approval of payroll and bills 6.5 is the destruction of our Clos session recordings from August 22nd 2023 uh 6.6 is our donations we'd like to thank uh city of bavia bath uh Louise White PTO the Illinois reading Council bavia youth Athletics and beefy for all of their generous donations uh 6.7 is our textbook on display 6.8 is the Fox Valley Career Center intergovernmental agreement 6.9 is our uh IHS renewal for 2025 26 6.10 is the approval of the BHS marching band overnight trip 6.11 is the approval of the elementary uh school supply purchases 6.12 it's our special ed contracts and finally 6.13 is the approval of our consent agenda and you flew right through but you skipped over 6.2 right because that is no longer a part of it thank you anyone have any questions or comments I have a couple questions MH so so on 6.7 the AP textbook um so this is a AP textbook so what is the procedure for to update the textbooks like do in order to be an AP course does the AP governing body tell us hey you have to have this addition or later in order for it to be acceptable or good question you have to go through a process of submitting your syllabus to the College Board um and there are certain texts that are AP approved that match the curriculum that they put out so the high school maintains like a rotational list so every year somebody comes up for review sometimes they're like no I'm good other times there's like a curriculum change by the college board so they would need to like get bumped up on the list so they maintain a list um that they go through to update the AP textbooks and there a little bit kind of on the subject but off so and I see because I think this was 2008 and we were going for the 223 so however many years um 15 years or whatever Elementary so um you're going the approval of the math curriculum is a good example of that so they went through a process they said this is what we want to do they have uh we have a PD plan around that and then we bring it to the board and work it through that process so it's not it it's much more uh timely on a small scale when you get to a bigger scale that you have to have a process that goes around that because there's so many more people that are impacted okay and then uh 6.12 special ed um that cost of that is that did we anticipate that cost or was it above what we or below or do we have not a projection for it yeah we don't because we don't have a projection for it but we do meet with NI every year to talk about what are our kids needs so we look at special education what are the students needs so is it a need for OT and PT is it um a need for vision services and then they craft a plan with Nia to do those services so last year it was about $975,000 this year it's around 850 so it's just based on the kids needs so it's never consistent year to year which is why we try and have that meeting pretty early in the year so that we can budget for it and take a look at what the students needs are for next year is there costs gone up oh yeah okay I mean I figure with everybody's costs are going up I'm just curious like if yeah their their cost per day has gone up significantly but that seems to be pretty common in that field and they're providing pretty highly specialized staff to us um which we really need I have one question too um the assistant principal of special education at RMS is that a position being replaced like that person uh whoever's in that position right now is leaving yeah yeah what happened is um Carol dkey uh is retiring at the conclusion of this year she's an assistant principal um over at Rolo and so a couple of the current assistant principles are changing seats if you will into different positions still all at Rolo so Carol's retirement open up an assistant principal position Chris Payton is currently in that position he's moving into to um kind of the uh uh operations athletic director position Adam Lester is moving into Carol's old position and that's leaving the special ed position open so not a new position just a little move movement internally with the Rolo assistant principles thank you did we get lucky on filling that position quickly we got a fantastic candidate which I is going to be a massive win for the students St and staff for a total so special education's hard to fill you are right and then I disfigure the assistant principal Y and he's had experience in that role at a very nearby School District any other questions okay I will entertain a motion to approve the consent agenda as presented 6.2 so moved second so moved by Danielle second by Aaron Cindy please lead us in a roll call Vote Yes Gonzalez Thomas yes AR yes sliger yes Meadows yes lock yes than you motion passes uh seven reports we will now hear um in this we will hear our board leaon reports is that when we want to do it right at the beginning or do you want to do it under committee updates uh we'll do it under committee updates okay so item 7.1 for request Tom yep um board you see the report six reports or six requests were filed last month within the last month and uh one was denied any questions on I lost an hour of my life looking at the first item that was on the list I'm not asking questions about it looked into it to understand a bit more about it all right um item 7.2 Tony treasure reports treasurer's report is presented there's nothing out of the ordinary in the treasurer's report this month this what happen when we pick on you right before coming out tell me I'd talk too much this is it all right item 7.3 counseling anybody have any questions on the treasures report sorry okay item 7.3 counseling board report 2024 25 Brad Yep this is an annual report and it's uh dictated by board policy around Counseling and Advising so this report is presented to you just to give you an idea and I'm glad Paige was here of what our cing and Advising departments do at both our middle school and high school so you can see they work on both academic counseling social emotional counseling and really provide our students a great service any questions yes I have a question so the suicide prevention program um do we only offer that to sophomores in seventh grade uh the SOS program is only seventh grade and uh sophomores it's because uh at the Middle School sixth graders and eighth graders have health so that's woven in uh suicide prevention's woven into the health class so we do it in seventh grade where they don't have health and at the high school they have ninth grade health and then they have that program for sophomores and then we do a refresher their senior year 12th grade year so they're getting something pretty consistently but it just depends on who's delivering that sometimes it's our own counselors that are doing that that other times we're working with alysa's Mission and SOS so alysa's Mission that's an outside group that comes in so we don't have any certified staff that holds the SOS certification um they're they're qualified all of our therapeutic staff are qualified to both give the survey which is what Alyssa's Mission does is really looking at uh students who might be exhibiting those signs and then they respond to that as well so they're they're involved in that um so they can give the survey and then do the followup after the survey so is it it just comes from an outside organization so the if I'm hearing correctly the presentation is an outside organization or and then a internal staff member will give the survey yeah they give the survey and then when we get the results of that survey they will follow up with students that need to be followed up with that's my understanding I'm just curious like if uh can any of our staff get certified in the presentation giving that I don't know that's something I could look into I just think this is just me I and uh I guess I feel like I know that they have it in health class you know in the sixth grade um and they get Refreshers but um I just feel like maybe just every single year I don't know how long the presentation is it's like you know an hour or 30 minutes my thing is like even if it's an hour that's a good hour to spend on talking to kids about you know SOS and you know I don't know do we only give the presentation once a year or yeah once a year maybe like just to check in like hey beginning of the year because we know that stressors happened throughout the year and then maybe at the end of the year and see if we made any progress or if there's anything more we should be concerned about I mean that's just I feel MH but I feel like if we if we can have certified staff trained in that not that I want to take away from the Alysa missions people but you know that's something that we can internalize and we can dictate how often we choose it instead of spending the money to have them come in once a year if we have someone trained we can do it not we do it every day but we could do that every that makes any sense yeah and we also have a partnership with SPS suicide prevention Services the local so when we have those situations that do arise they will come into our buildings and meet with families um because we want to make sure they have access to that type of services and that type of counseling so there's multiple Partnerships there but I'm hearing you thank you okay great thank you good questions all right committee updates Tom do you want to lead us off or you want me to start picking um yeah if the board wants to go ahead and do your rundown like you always do it's like I said earlier this is this is an opportunity for us just to put the committe discussions all into one spot togethers and then we have our report that we're providing you so that but now that's a matter of public record um you know with what our major committees have done but so yeah Bor I've had it sue do you have anything for anything you're doing yes um beefy met couple weeks we ago and voted on gave out grants we awarded over $9,000 in Grants as you saw in earlier um they were given uh the high school got a couple Rolo got one um we awarded one to the JB Nelson and I'm going to call it the PTO I don't think that's what they're called there anymore but uh they got one um and then also storm H storm got uh was awarded a grant and also United Way for their Dolly Parton reading project and just to show everyone out there that you just don't necessarily have it's always been called teacher grants but it doesn't you don't have to be a teacher to apply for the grants so next year keep that in mind um we met uh the scholarship committee met last week no Monday I can't even remember anymore voted on scholarships the committee will as a whole will meet Thursday and vote on the scholarship so I can't say yeah months word months the word that will be announced th's day or Friday so but good news is coming soon at right now only thing I'm going to add on beefy is Sue reminded me that she will she's in her waning meetings you going to have one more before the next board meeting two what do you mean beefy meetings do you have any you'll have a couple like updates I'm just saying yes after April she will not be on the board anymore and we will need a new board Le well may may I'll go to May okay I'll I'll do through May okay so the new whoever's on the board would start probably in September so if anybody's interested start thinking about it it's fun not an opening get to help give away money how hard can it be how miserable can it be I actually got to give you know hold a big giant check unfortunately I was not on the receiving the big giant check but it's still fun to give away and surprise the teachers you walk into their classroom and they're like really excited and give out money to students too so that's always fun talk to sue a little bit understand what the time involvement is and yeah for right now that if you're at all interested happy to let you know what goes on drag you to another to a meeting see what it's like it's fun if I could just say a quick thanks to sue um being a non voting board member which is my role uh it's Unique right uh but I've been able to watch Sue work closely on beefy and I just want to say thank you um people don't realize it's kind you're an active working board member on that role so Su has done a lot of work with their scholarship restructuring also creation of some new opportunities for our students students through b scholarships so just want to say Sue thank you for doing that for our students and our staff I've been at B for about 10 years and head of the scholarship committee for probably about the same amount and started working on that kind of not from the ground up because they did have scholarships but starting the rubric and the procedures and everything so it's come a long way been fun very rewarding so anyways Rob about your insurance that's not fun not giving away money spending it rack give money stiping committee I would say that okay um actually so you you know we got we're upon March Madness in basketball here we're going to have March Madness of the stiping committee this Thursday really going to roll into the requests and uh looking at all of that so um Steve is going to bring plenty of Gatorade keep us hydrated during it um but that'll be the the big um you know major task coming up there uh this Thursday and then uh we'll see how it goes it may flow into April's uh usually Tak a few meetings okay so um and then on the rack meeting I'm not going to say too much CU I know Tom's going to talk about one of the items um that we discussed at the rack meeting and then uh Mark I believe will be talking about a few other items items um so they gave us previews on that but you'll get the full details from uh Tom and Mark on those items all right so for plaque um we did a presentation from a company on a new professional development tool and signing up um I know the teachers that were on this committee were very excited because I I don't you some of you may know like but you have to go into something and then into something and copy paste and add one and carry the two um where this is just more like signed up and you're done very simplified um so they kind of looked at that um they talked about a piloted social studies program that was in the elementary schools um for bpsu applications at that time uh I think we had met on the 20th um there was 50 signups already um and then also they just kind of talked about how to make professional develop days more um maximize the time and uh you know if it kind of goes if you're in the morning or if you're in the afternoon and uh so forth like that so next meeting is this Thursday so good meeting thank you policy meeting committee did not meet but uh the Hall of Honor did meet we had a meeting on February 26th and I'm happy to announce that uh with a robust list of candidates we were able to come to consensus on eight new inductees into the VPS 101 Hall of honor and that's out there so I'll read their names now we have uh typically six graduates one employee and one friend of the district we induct uh in the 2025 class it will include Mr Brian dandell class of 1981 Les fos class of 1967 Michael Heaton he's the class of 1985 Jack hinterlong class of 1966 Aon Olsen Cole Haagen class of 2002 and Nicole kley Johnson pakowski I hope I got that right class of 1999 the employee inductee is Miss Kim Anderson and the friend of the district is Mr John Hamill and they will be participating in the homecoming parade and then the following day that Thursday we have a ceremony I invite the community to attend a lot of past inductees like uh Dr and glacy uh are at that event typically and so it's a great way to learn about the past of bavia and what um students have accomplished it's always amazing to see the variety and the different ways people can make a contribution so I would highly recommend uh people attend uh they have the opportunity did uh Tony go in as an employee or as a alumni he's looking for the twofer so the first two time inductee is that what you're looking for he wants two photos in that's all I have you no there you have to have been an employee off like you have to quit you have to quit and then yeah we can make it no that's great to see John Hamill because he's done so much like anybody that's been involved in the schools on any PTO any or organization knows that he will do anything you know if you need pizza or food or anything he's or place to meet yeah place to meet you know he will just step up that's so great to see and you know that's good it's a good group yeah great group awesome and Y uh cacm I'm probably GNA throw it over to Brad but basically my understanding is um the we kind of they spent time to go over uh pilot program and kind of how to um review the process and definition and make sure that it's something that everyone understands and expectations are the same um so that was the bulk of the meeting and I don't know specifically if you want to add in stuff now we at your part but no I I think you did a nice job of kind of summarizing our work in that meeting was really if you look at the the process for a curriculum review it's it's very daunting right and you're trying to get a lot of people on board and a lot of people involved in that process um one of the sticking points that we've had is the concept of what a pilot is because some people believe that's like just trying things out um but there's so many moving pieces that we really have to make sure that everyone kind of understands that process and what that looks like and what the components are so our team has been really looking at that and wanting to make some changes so it's really we probably won't use the word pilot in the future because that is confusing so really look talking about like what do we do prior to implementation and then what does an implementation plan really look like just so that it's clear to everyone in our organization and not we're coming at it with six different definitions so that's our that's our work and we'll do an update this next Thursday or in two days yeah okay Tom yes so a few things here from the administration um we're really excit I'm excited uh Drew Ray and I are our co-chairing the equity committee we're meeting tomorrow just as an update for you all and we're really excited on what we're talking about on the agenda and some next steps and action steps in engaging with uh uh pockets of our community that I think uh will be able to provide some really valuable feedback in the work we're doing here in the district um referencing going back to our discussion about rack um so at Rack one of the things we presented were updates that the city of Aurora has announced in their uh City Vision and planning and at the announcements they've um shared plans for more residential and Commercial developments in the city of Aurora but that will fall in the BPS 101 boundaries um the residential uh zones if you will um will most likely impact what is already on the east side certain School communities and boundaries that are starting to spill over at this point um of our six elementary schools jbn is our biggest uh floating around 450 students and with some of the developments they're speaking about right now them those coming online would put a little more pressure on that because right now that has been consistently flowing with three sections per grade level and so um we reviewed the current elementary boundaries and the busing routes that are being used to support all eight of our buildings and after presenting that and the city of Aurora's developments in that topic uh RX supported that we recommend to the board that we're requesting consensus from you tonight for us to start pursuing a demographer to do a study um there's no action you know I know if anyone watching our board meeting tonight might be thinking you know wait are they changing our boundaries right now no we want to do a study we need to understand what these developments might do if once they come online what you know we haven't looked at this in 22 years um so it's a good time to do that if you look at the maps and the way things were drawn they were drawn for places where there was no home development yet no residential development well they're there now and they're going to come more now so um that's rack supported this recommendation uh we have been Gathering some information you know there are districts in our region that have done this work recently um so you know with your permission we'd like to pursue and engage talking to some of these groups but we would bring that to you back to you for approval um and authorize actual contract work to begin me I anticipate we woulde to do this even without that with probably what's going on down the street right on the um Maybe not maybe not because well because again the the density of the homes in all of our residential areas on the east side of Tavia east side when I say East Side I should make this clear I'm using East Side as east side of the river versus West side of the river that that seems to be our line of so east side of the river uh residential units are tighter um you know the East Side the east side of the river was uh developed a little bit has been here with you know longer the neighborhoods and so I think when you look Westward you know there's a little more spread out um so yeah Tony did I miss anything from our discussions with the city of aora just so you know like Tony and I are usually the ones receiving these communications sometimes actually Tony's getting it directly and then he forwards it to me uh but I appreciate uh the team at at Aurora they've really done a nice job of keeping us in the loop with some of these developments and also we've shared our concerns and the city has uh supported us the city of aora has supported us with you know walkway concerns to school safe Pathways they're working with the developers and making sure that what our requests are are being met um in terms of those concerns are you looking for consensus now or Yes actually because we don't want to wait if we know that the city has made it clear uh that they're going to move on these um I don't think we should wait I think if the the more Runway we get the better and the less rushed this will feel so you could do the good old yeah anybody have any concerns about it at least to go start the investigation process no okay all right go for it I mean I thumbs up I think that is your every time Tony Tony probably gets this question every time we talk about enrollment someone goes well there's houses being built how many kids are showing up and he gives the my crystal ball is no better than anybody else's so that having somebody to kind of come in and look at some data that might help be able extrapolate that over time be helpful y awesome all right thank you anything any other updates on your site I think everything else has been provided here so those were just the ones of specific conversation no uh the only ones I'm going to I'm going to just add real quick is um as we've been starting now having kind of quick sit down uh with uh the Bea and Tom and two board members myself and one other and the other ones been kind of rotating around had a very good uh meeting today to kind of talk about how we can kind of formalize not formalize kind of create two sets of meetings almost of one of them is how do we look at making sure that that the Avenues of for us to be able to get to the schools to be able to kind of you know witness be a part of be present in um events that are happening and how that might be structured um while not about recognizing in the S TOS you know making sure that we're not overloaded with too many things to do so as the kind of the new board comes on that will be kind of some discussions about maybe reorganizing some things I'm not going to get all into it tonight but a ways to be able to kind of handle that and work that out um so that we have maintain kind of two different Visions for what those processes are so it's a very good meeting I think roel for coming today and providing a lot of good insights so thank you all right anything else Tom that I rounded it out no okay next uh no because we'll talk about board matters yep yep okay so uh action item 8.1 mathematics resource adoption Brad sure so we put this on display you approved this to put this on display last month it's been on display uh we haven't gotten any takers yet but um we have our math resources this came from one of our subject area leadership teams they did a really nice job of of working through this process they're really excited about this this would impact students in the elementary uh who are in high ability mat it gives another Pathway to math acceleration in the middle school and it will also affect our students who take algebra at the high school so kind of a a lot of kids that would be impacted by the use of this resource they think this is uh something and I agree with them that is really going to facilitate a lot of growth for our kids the rigor is is up there and I really appreciate them kind of digging into this resource we did some professional development already on this because they were just so ready to do that so we met here um and really started to look at like what does a lesson look like what's the lesson structure look like and how can we get our kids um more engaged with mathematics so that was a really really good session and we're excited about this any questions or comments the only thing I like and I think I mentioned in a previous meeting is um one of my sons was like right on the cusp of getting kind of higher placement in math and had to kind of wait all the way to kind of high school to really get into that and he kind of had to work his tail off to get through that to get kind of caught up so I like this as a better kind of takeoff kind of ramp for them as opposed to jumping into high school at the higher math levels and skipping things as was mentioned let's not skip things let's compact that make sure they got all of that core stuff that they need and our kids will do great right hearing no further questions or comments from the board I will entertain a motion if I page to approve Eureka Math to is the anchor resource for mathematics so moved by Raquel second second by Rob uh Cindy please lead us in a roll call vote P yes sliger yes L yes hilber yes Gonzalez Thomas yes arando yes motion passes thank you item 8.2 these approval of superintendent's new contract so as you all know this guy is up for new contract we've been meeting over time um in it and we would like to effectively kind of reup his contract for it the paperwork's been out there I won't get into too many details about it but does anybody have any questions for me Tony Steve or anybody else it's been a very good process I would just want to kind of commend the board for working together and talking about it and really making sure everybody understands it and Tom for being very um kind of open and forth right through the process so thank you appreciate it all right I will hearing no questions I will entertain a motion that the board approv the superintendent's contract as presented second by Aaron cdy please lead us in a roll call vote Arland yes Gonzalez Thomas yes hilberg yes sler yes yes Meadows yes I majority I know how to four all right you could hit him if you wanted it passed right yeah you did it's already passed all right item 8.3 award bids for Library improvements at bavia high school and Rolo middle school and Mark yes the floor is yours sir thank you good evening um this both at Rolo and the high school um most of the library is as you saw it when those buildings opened um so 92 for Rolo and well I should preface that BHS didn't open in '95 but that part opened in '95 for the library um this process we started well at the high school a while ago but um specifically with Amy the lrc director there in Diana the lrc director at Rolo earlier this school year um we had with our architect drr had three different design meetings kind of the first one the initial one getting back and forth feedback from both lrc directors and basically came to a design that um everybody agreed on even though it's probably still going to get tweaked a little bit had to wait till tonight um for approval but there's still some things going on there and Holly might be queuing up something for me here so you can kind of see um a little bit about what this looks like so the first one you're looking at is Rolo and again these are design images this isn't exactly what it's going to look like rendering sorry renderings thank you Craig you're in this terminology much more than I am um so basically the box or the rectangle that is is not changing so ceilings lighting carpeting um in this space the windows um the windows will be changing that design that you see there isn't going to be exactly what they look like um so this is very important in this space um those windows have um needed to be replaced for a while now most of those windows um come to find out were um not installed correctly um when they first were put in um so that's LED for some fogging and some you know obviously not the best Energy Efficiency that we can use so those are going to get replaced um and really if you want to just kind of go through this hly um as you can see kind of closer different ceiling look different lighting um zones were identified as the needs for Rolo um that space at Rolo is used a lot for you know they have teams there so an entire team so it could be 90 students to 120 ish students so there's a a zone that you can bring chairs in and they can you know see a presentation or something like that and then you can take those chairs and put them somewhere else and use it as a a different meeting space for a class or class of students or you know students coming in small groups and then thank you then the high school um very similar as far as a look but um different spaces the difference in Rolo and the high school I would say say the main one is the ceiling height um at the high school that space was senior Hall that's where classes were and um so a lot of the things as you can see some of those pillars that was a hallway and then the classrooms came off of that we can't change that that there so you have to kind of you know use what you got and you know you create different spaces there I would say the high school more than the middle school a lot of students will go there um to kind of more of like hang out like before after school um to do work a little more than Rota Rota has a little bit of that but the high school so we had to kind of figure that in the other piece in here is this is where Chrome Depot is located so students that have something wrong with their Chromebooks yeah Chrome Depot that's what it's called so I have to go down there and um and get their Chromebooks looked at or fixed that currently is right in the middle of the library so they have to walk through the library go to this space so we put it at one of the ends of the library we're creating two new spaces an actual office for Chrome Depot or a space for Chrome Depot and then that way they can just come right off the hallway and access it right there so this went out to bid in two different phases um one in February and one in um early March just because of some timing of drawings and things like that um for the most part um with happy with the bids that came in and the cost I was happy with but um couple of the trades we didn't get as many biders as I would lik to seen but unfortunately we're kind of at that time of year right now where a lot of biders know that they might have too much on their plate and they say you know yeah we would like to do it but we don't want to get in too much the only piece um that besides that the other concern I have is the casework might be delayed a little bit just because of it's kind of getting in line as far as when they're going to develop it so that might come real close to when school starts but we have a plan B um for that to happen it's not going to affect the library opening or anything like that so this would start like the day after school classes not quite like HC storms work but yeah shortly thereafter schools ends I would say more than like because what we have to do is we have to get all of the books out yeah okay so that's going to take a little bit longer um so the books all have to come out of both spaces and get stored and get organized so then when they go back in you know they know the sections and fiction non-fiction and all that where they go comp I would say the work would I consider that towards you what's that I consider that starting well yes yes that work starting but the actual demolition won't start until after that right any questions thank you for walking us through appreciate it no problem all right I will entertain a motion who award the bids for the library improvements at bavia high school and Rolo Middle School library is presented in appendix a so moved so moved by Aon second by Rob Cindy please lead us in a roll call Vote sler Yes arandu Yes Gonzalez Thomas yes Meadows yes black yes hilber yes thank you all right I'm next is certification of 10 year Health Life Safety survey I'm not going to this all by myself I have Carrie Van Sant here from um our architect firm DLR for she came all this way just to wave at us and say thank you yeah she'll she'll take over here but um 10e he Health Life Safety survey um it is a requirement from the state you have to do this so um instead of my team actually cannot do this so our architect um steps in and um this I would say the 10e health Life Safety is a long process it takes a lot of time to do um really to get the report where it's at and then even after the report of the recommendations um to do as well I will let Carrie take us through that process thanks Mark um hi everyone it's been a bit since I've been here but it's nice to see you all so we the health Life Safety Service as Mark mentioned is a requirement every 10 years on all state of Illinois public school facilities so we started this process we reviewed all of the buildings um went back and did some additional reviews on a couple of the buildings uh and essentially the process uh that we take um as Architects and Engineers of record are looking at the existing buildings under under the codes in which they were originally designed or renovated under and we go through and look for potential things that may not aligned to those and those could be things like penetrations like conduit or things that went through the a firewall that might not have been appropriately sealed at the time that it was done or perhaps based on the use of a school a storage room needed to become an office and because that happens a lot right sometimes spaces turns turn over and by the time we go in and look at it it um it needs ventilation for that particular purpose um and then there are times that maybe La labels on doors or frames that are fire rated may be painted over so they need to be addressed or certain doors might not have closers or might not be functioning correctly when they need to be operating as such those are a lot of the typical things we find they're really kind of Maintenance make sure your things your walls and your doors and spaces are um appropriately meeting the needs of the the code at that time under which it was built and anything that's retroactive acve so ISB does have certain retroactive requirements um in a building like the high school that has 11 additions um over different years there are a plethora of codes that a building could be under um fortunately for most of the high school because of when the seawing was constructed um there was a lot of renovation for the oldest most in the original parts of the building um so then it were EV valuating it under the more current version of the code if you will when we do that so we do a S sidewalk Architects Engineers imeg is our our local engineering partner they've been in the district for a couple decades now so they know your buildings really well um but we take a team in we do a full walk of the buildings and we're looking at potential what they're called violations um not not a nice word but violations they are and then we rank them uh priority a b and c as you see up there priority a are items that are considered more urgent that should be addressed within a year priority B items are um a little bit longer term they're still required items but they give you the isby gives you five years to address those um and the Roe is pretty good in um working with districts if it's a bigger item to be able to take that time to be able to address some of those items uh priority C items are recommended improvements so they're not required and for districts that Levy Health Life Safety funds you have to um address all the A and B items before you could then use hls funds to address C items which include things like Energy Efficiency improvements for Ada um Beyond what's required um by isb's standards and the code under which it was the building was designed or things like Paving so you get special approvals to use funds for those SE items uh so so we walk the buildings we document everything we um there's an IW guide on ISB um I don't know what that acronym stands for for IAS but it's an online platform that you enter in all the particular things that you found that need to be addressed you cite the codes you cite it's a process Craig Craig knows been through it um you cite um how you recommend addressing those items and the potential costs for that today's dollars uh and then you tally it all up and summarize it and you also in that uh process create what are called Safety reference plans so it's a site plan and the building floor plans um that uh show things like the calculated occupancy of a room exiting travel distances firewalls fire areas Etc very code related heavy and related um and then there's also an me um mechanical electrical Plumbing component to that for exit signs and emergency lighting uh and things like that to get documented so every school has that documentation it gets updated every 10 years and then we upload it on the online platform we say okay we're done we sign off on it and then we push it to the district for approval um and then from U all it goes to the regional Office of Education and then from the Roe it goes to the state for final approval because this is just an amendment no request for hls funds that process is typically pretty smooth if a district were to Levy hls funds and do what's called an amendment and say they want to use fire prevention and safety funds for something then that's a whole process and it's a the costs are vetted and that's a longer process with ISP so tonight here is just reviewing kind of getting um board approval to kind of push this into the Roe Court a few things I do want to point out um because when you see the number of $4.9 million when you see the total um some of that 2.2 million was already budgeted so we as we did the warm safe dry we saw some things like um fire alarm upgrades was I would say the biggest one um so those have already been out five years so a lot of those are B items so a lot of the B items not all of them but a lot of them have already been budgeted other things that um when car and team does their report they put for she mentioned door labels for example so they put on there what it would cost to replace a door okay well you might not have to replace the door you have to actually see if it's still fire rated so there's other companies that come through and will do a survey of all of the doors that were a violation so that number could substantially drop but again we don't know that and car's team doesn't know that so she puts the or they put the full amount in that place so again you know I know you know you see the number and I know questions are like what is this budgeted for how we going to pay for this things like that anything any work that either has to go out to bid will I will bring back to you and it will be in a package and the same thing with lrc's it will be the same thing so then we'll know exactly how much that works cost but all of that leg work before that to check will happen before for even have another you know well carries team and our um lamp our construction manager come in to do so we'll do that first as far as getting that number where it needs to be and then bring that back a items the plan for the a items because most of those would have to be done over a summer that would be the summer of 26 so it wouldn't be anything coming this year that wasn't already planned for but some of that work was planned in the HC Storm Renovations for this summer MH so can you I'm trying to process all this so this is aort a lot it's a lot so I'm trying to figure out like what we're doing tonight if we certify like moving the process forward that's all it is yeah and is essentially Erin ex um kind of accepting the inevitable the the the violations in the safety reference plan and the process as submitted on the state's um web portal toll I guess you would call it and then we'll go back and review like you were saying see okay let's go to these a items and yep like a little more granular of like how much it's going once this gets through the process we'll start looking at the a items you know we'll take those identify those between well I would say a few months but this summer up until next summer and do any of those a items make sense to put in what's already planned so for example storm is this summer we have Louise White as next summer anding the same work as storm so things when you look at Louise White might not have been budgeted for or we didn't foresee that would go in there and then that way you already have contractors there as part of that so we would just put that into the bid process and there's other things planned with warm safe dry we would do the exact same exercise for stuff at the high school at Rolo at elementary schools yeah we're not actually certifying it's like right that's car's job we're just certifying that we are accepting it and acknowledging that those items will likely need to be addressed and that the process has been done and the process has been done yeah because they will write NRS if it's not I just wanted to make sure and obviously these numbers are fluid but when I see a number like remove paint from painted label or replace well that's not a good one even um provide accessible door hardware and it's 5,000 obviously it's for the multiple doors is that including labor and doors yes yes okay labor and material labor labor and material that's I just because sometimes the numbers because it's like $75 to remove paint and I'm like yeah and some of those product there the labor to remove the paint so I just want to make sure and many of the items too if there so there's a coding whether um the district can do with their own Personnel so a lot of it marks I would assume like that particular um and then some are they're a little bit larger scale or if you pair them across the buildings it makes more sense to have a contractor come in and do that so yeah because I know we've talked before about your guys changing out door handles stuff like that that the stuff you just mentioned yeah it will be done as I call in housee or own maintenance do yeah you don't need contractors coming in to do some of that stuff but yeah so okay I just have a question to so this is done every 10 years and I understand that codes change and so forth but the P last 10 years this was done was any of this should have been caught then or the 20 years or the 30 years I mean I'm that's I know it's not us it's the company that does this and so I'm just curious It's like cuz I mean it seems like a lot and I don't know if the codes have changed that much in 10 years where it would be and I know that Terry probably can't really answer that to be honest because it's different Architects firm but I would say yes and I came on in this role right after the 2014 one was approved so I kind of took that over and the exact same conversation was happening at that time yeah when at that point my boss we had that conversation board memb had that conversation the same thing so so yes it does um but again I think that's why it's every 10 years because there are things that change in that time frame as well um so but yes just just to reiterate it's that that the codes change because you evaluate it for when it was built so you don't have to update the code outside of some legal proceedings requirements so if the building was built in 1982 you're evaluating under the 1982 code so like you said at the high school there's 11 different additions or Rolo is kind of even worse there's a bunch of different additions with five different building codes associated with it what happens is when you build on to buildings and one to the next different Architects have different levels of comfort about trying to understand what they will accept and so more things come on the list also just stuff happens over the years you know someone comes in it's like oh I'll just replace the door handle and grabs a door handle that's no longer Ada and it goes in there so it's a myriad of issues um it's hard to pin down if there was an ATA for it per se um it's just an important thing that these things get done so that because previous to the 10e they just weren't happening and then you nobody was paying attention to what the buildings were like and things were creating unsafe situations for kids potentially and and the staff that's in the buildings I mean I wasn't looking to blame I was just like it happens yeah I mean yeah like you said I understand this this handle now what does happen is a interpretations of codes change so you might get a new Roe that comes in and that's a whole new batch of things that you they pay attention to and interpret it different and while the architect is the one that's ultimately making the interpretation you get Guided by the Roe because they have to sign off on it yeah what what is there what are the consequences of not you know doing a priority a item or priority B item within five years how much I don't know I I don't know if I've ever had a district ask me that because everybody just does it everybody works real hard at getting them taken care of so the Roe is responsible for ensuring that school districts submit their 10-year Health Life Safety surveys and that they do them and so they would do a permit review they they also do compliance on on the Myriad of State statutes that Brad is usually our Point guy on that but there is a instrument that they use to evaluate all the curricular requirements and and they do much the same for this sort of thing too so that's why the it's one of the key functions of the Regional Offices of Education let me ask this question is this going to cause us to modify warm safe and dry do you anticipate I missed the first part will this cause us to have to modify warm safe and dry uh well these costs are definitely part of warm safe and dry by definition and uh so uh we don't know the full extent of the additional costs of them because as Mark mentioned we know that there's a fire rated door that's supposed to be here we painted over the label or maybe the the label peeled off and now we have to determine whether or not that door just needs a new label or that door needs to be replaced so that that fire rating is maintained so we don't know the full extent of the cost just yet we just know what the scope of the work is that needs to I guess a better way to phrase that and I know you don't have a crystal ball but I'm asking you to pull it up but do you think with if things continue upon this current path run we will be able to address these needs uh within our current oh within our current budget yeah I would tell you that I am concerned about the current budget and the amount of work that we have to do from that Capital basis and and the number keeps growing and there's there's just a lot to do yeah there is there's a lot um there are some new techniques or I shouldn't say techniques there's a new tool in our toolbox uh with our ability to Levy Health Life Safety funds that's a that's a new thing for us being a tax cap District just within the last year uh that's a possib posibility for us um but uh that's something to consider okay thank you any further questions okay I will entertain a motion to certify the 10-year Health Life Safety survey as presented so moved so moved by Raquel second by second second by Danielle Cindy please lead us in a roll call vote yeser yes Gonzalez Thomas yes Gilbert yes yes Meadows yes thank you very much thank you Carrie all right board discussion that was all of our action items thank you to everybody on that uh board discussion uh meeting dates Tom yes so uh board as you know uh we've been soliciting availability of different kinds of dates from you um the first one I'm going to start with is the organizational meeting that will need to be taking place per board policy to callon 210 so u in the policy specifically kind of outlines when that board meeting needs to take place and following with what the district has done traditionally um we're making it a recommendation that we go ahead and move forward with April 22nd following the regular board meeting that the uh reorganization of the board meeting take place and seating our new members and then the board would conduct its vote its own internal election officers and positions so long and short I we'll have our own board meeting first then bring on the new board members that way any kind of things that are action items or whatever else that they might not yet be up to speed on we can address no I'm not voting then um then next part or portion which you you would as a board approve with um the the newly seated board but these are the dates based on what our reciprocal dates are on the calendar from this school year into next school year so those have been outlined for you as well um does anybody have any questions about the FY 26 board meeting dates um I know we've had conversations about how a lot of our um a lot of pot um governmental meetings are all on like Tuesdays and is there any potential discussion I don't probably too late for this the 25 26 year um but whether it's us or any of them to move to like a Wednesday or something like that so that people ourselves included can attend other meetings that is your uh Danielle great question I I turn it over to the board I I think that's a board conversation um as to what um next year's meetings would look like for all of you because the policies don't dictate what night of the week you need to meet are you still following the first out outside of a couple of them like the first Tuesday this is following the Cindy help me out are we on the third Tuesday of the month so we're just solid on the third Tuesday of the month now as opposed to what we used to be the one factor we' asked that you consider is that um you keep that Cadence similar to that because we have to pay bills based off of yeah we used to be the first Tuesday after the 19th or something so we don't like it when you know if you're going to have a regular meeting within two weeks of the last it we don't have a you know it will create gaps in terms of when we can pay bills that's what it falls down to so some of these are not tues because Christmas do that mess with Comm meetings too it could okay um right now part of what our chairs have done on the Committees our Bea and admin chairs have tried to line it up so that they're more coordinated as to when they're happening together um so that they can have cross conversations and timing of discussions are happening kind of in the same window of time so there aren't these big gaps in order to keep them moving in the momentum going yeah that's good right now is the time but just kind of curious because I think I get your point it's like have the school board meeting on this particular night so other members or other agencies can like go to other meetings and such yeah and like just if if people want to are constituents want to be able to go to City Council but then we also hold it and sometimes Park District was having theirs all on the same night so yeah that was my only question so we could either talk about that now or when there's a board Workshop coming up that we've already scheduled I think that's a reasonable time to kind of we did we do that one an open session that one's not necessarily A you know internal working on the board session that board Workshop would be with the new board right yes I think that makes more and then talk about whether we want to amend this at all or just say okay for next year this is what we'll do kind of think yeah they we'll have a bunch of people showing up on the wrong day for a while if not including ourselves um so then if that leads into our next discussion about special meetings um with that board Workshop just keeping in mind if we delay or wait past May for FY 26's board meetings keeping in mind you're turning right around into July so I just want to make sure you all are aware of that okay and how that impacts the operations of the district um so then special board meetings after we finished all of our presentations to the January regular board meeting meeting uh there was discussion amongst the board to consider splitting off the meetings to include a special board meeting as well um we also surveyed the board on that and so um we did contact all potential candidates running for board just so the board is aware for those those of you who are not running in this cycle every candidate was contacted so we could take into consideration their potential needs from a calendaring perspective and their schedules so where we're at it seems that Thursday May 29th had the most consensus that would be the evening we try to dedicate towards our building presentations the administration's presentations would take place on June 25th Wednesday that had the consensus of all candidates and current board members and that would be at 7 pm and that would be the districtwide presentation and then the board Workshop that you were just talking about it looks like the consensus is June 10th at 6:00 p.m.

at this time let us stand for the Pledge of Allegiance and our mission statement Pledge of Allegiance led by board member board secretary Alex hagos and followed by the mission statement led by Dr Hall I pledge allegiance to the FL of the United States of America and to the for it stands one nation under God indivisible liberty and justice for all and Empower our students to positively impact their community and Future thank you both for leading those two Endeavors I would like to move a couple action items or board items up before we go to close session I don't know if I need a motion to do that b yeah you're going amend the agenda okay I would like a motion to amend the agenda to include moving two items up before close session that's number five public comments and number seven administrate I'm sorry yeah number seven administrative updates have a motion to do what I just stated move by Nelson second by Dr Hall any questions or comments if not roll call for the amended agenda miss wol I miss Z Somers I Mr swales hi Mr gigos is an i Mr Alber hi Dr Hall hi president Brown I motion passed so right now we have public comments we have two public comments that was written and submitted the first one we have that from University Park key Lewis children the basketball yeah and is regarding University Park basketball liance pledge presentation good evening everybody good evening um again my name is key chis uh I am truly honored to standing before you uh to do this presentation uh it would it not have been possible uh when I retired in April everybody was blowing my phone up so I want to personally take this opportunity to thank Mr dzel Franklin my community son for understanding the importance of keeping the youth together so we have a football now we have a basketball program being saying that uh having the experience of 30 years um Mr O got a couple more people in the building that know my children when they went to Creon it has truly been an honor to be a part of your family it's never been a hesitation for anybody that I pick up the phone or email you all have been a part of the success of the community programs saying that the determination the hard work the dedication of community volunteers we have them none of this would have been possible for the basketball program without you guys you have no idea the phone calls I've made I'm smiling at you now Mr O I'm smiling at Keith I'm smiling at Miss uh I was going to call her Miss G calling uh them and asking them could we get in the buildings my special thanks to my principles they know I love them Mr Mr hollyfield me and you going to have that conversation Miss Phillips Miss Carr thank you so much because without you all none of this would have been possible now the special people we have to give it to the athletic department athletic department is truly a part of what we do we facilitate bringing the feeder programs in bringing the young people in to be able to work with our athletic department we're starting at the middle school level so they have come out and celebrated with us they've been to games with us it was not possible without uh Mr Ki uh Mr Mueller bringing this in Mr hoser bringing it in the boys and girls basketball coaches anytime I pick up the phone I send Flyers out in the middle of the night I know they wives or husbands be like why she keep sending that but it be on my brain because I want them to be a part of this because I can tell you now doing this for the last 30 years watching our student athletes leave our community is hurtful trying to keep them here is our number one goal this is where we need you all at we need to start a Young Warriors program Rich Township has it HF has it and they starting at the third grade level we have soccers you can have these wonderful young people be the student athlete teachers of that because You' be surprised when those young people walked in that high school and played they were overwhelmed because they never played on such a big arena it was such a delight to have Ford Heights Glennwood Hazel Crest come in that gym we had no fights police were not called guess who won we did everybody know me I'm a stickler with my young people I demand respect and I give them respect we have to work as a team to Mr Robbie he knows security was there coach ktie was there nothing happened but their support meant a lot it allowed us to be able to share where when she comes in her her eighth grade season she's already seen these young people play so she'll piggy back but we also have to remember what about the young people that don't have an opportunity play she can only put 15 on the court that's what we come in at again youth Warriors we keep speaking it it's time for us to put that into position we have a lot of young people that are not athletic inclined you have a wonderful group of volunteers that are willing and able to come and help our athletic department to help these young people be able to their self-esteem like a lot of them don't even know how to bounce the basketball but because we're feeder programs we allow them to come in and we teach them that we're co-ed we don't have biases financially we're a feeder program we don't charge the parents a lot because again we have a lot of parents that financially can't afford it with Mr Franklin along with Moy Township and other private entities we were able to do it but one of the things that I could say looking at it from this side to your side we have to open up the window and opportunity for allowing people to bring water Gatorade popcorn to watch their children cuz if you all have ever been to a sporting event that's the first thing you do you go to the concession and then you go watch the game and you spend more money booster club we need it cuz I wear a couple hats I've been part of the basketball program here at Creek me AKA my son for 30 years I came in when my son was a freshman looked around said hey you all need some help came in never missed a beat then Coach CeCe she was a coach then she begged me to help with girls I'm like I don't want to do the girls please don't make me but again her desire to have person that knows the gang and willing to do it and I've been doing that ever since so so I have something special and I want Mr Franklin to come on up to help me on behalf it says in appreciation to cre mon School District 201u the University Park Youth Athletic Association Lions basketball teams would like to thank you for your valuable contribution toward the program of University Park president he didn't even see this one yet y'all president uh danzel Franklin and myself again thank you so much I wish it was bigger like that screen but you all know it's from my heart last but not least I have to give a couple shout outs because they know again I call them Dr Hall thank you so much Dr Hall I'll call and say hey we got a basketball Dr kin Mr Brown we got football thank you CU that means a lot when the young people see your faces the administrators it it takes them to another level so thank you so much because when you all come out they see your face on TV but they never see you in person so that means a lot to us to have you all come out and be a part of what we're doing but again I'm not going anywhere cuz I'm ready to be a part of our what community youth Warriors thank you thank you thank you so much and a cute little thank you B thank you and I was a surprise thank you thank you thank you thank you any comments on the public comment I just want to say I thank you for the work that you all put in in our community and trying to connect the community back to um the school I Know M childr does a lot with um with our young people uh Mr Franklin does a lot with our young people um and I definitely appreciate all that you do and I encourage you to continue to do what you do because our children need you um and if I can help I try to be there for you whenever I mean if you call me I'm there I got you thank you all right anybody else well I would like to say thank you as well I've been knowing I just got to say key for 30 years than and and danzel I is my daughter and him was senior athletes of the Year Sports athletes of the Year back in the days and key thank you for taking my son when he was just a little bitty things flying paper airplanes to flying jets okay so thank you for all you do and you are always been a beacon of the community and the difference with between you and I in the 30 years you haven't aged I have 50 years okay so keep doing what you're doing thank you thank you okay all righty next public comment we have is from Christine quinland quintland our CM EA president and that's to thank you to the community members who volunteered at borrow good evening um thank you to all the board members who dedicate their time and come here and do things for our district for free for those of you who don't know um and yes I am the cmea president but tonight I'm here as the Bal moral PBIS coach um we have trimester incentives three times a year and we changed all our incentives this year and we were having March music Madness on the first half day in March the first week and it almost became Madness with no music um but Sarah stawicki our music teacher she also works at Balmoral she said let me call some people so I wanted to recognize some of our community members who showed up at Balmoral on a half day to play for our students um they are not a band who um they are themselves not a band they collected a group of musicians local musicians who would play together for the day um but I do have some information if any of you wanted to support them so Bob elely was our guitarist in vocals Susan Williams was the basist in vocals Dale Wright was the basis in vocals Mike stawicki drummer in vocals and they were phenomenal for people who are not a band and who they just called up and had um come play for us um some places that you may be able to find each member is Austin Tavern in stagers um jam nights with Bobby Lee every Friday at 7 minus the summer the station in gladwood uh Jam night with Bobby Lee every Friday night during the summer months Main Street Exchange in cre Jam night with Susan Williams and Dale Wright um the Second Sunday of every month 4 to 7 and the side effects band uh Mike St Wiki's band uh you can check them out on Facebook to find out when they will have another gig and they truly did save the day and all we offered them was to be able to go out with uh Mr Wiki for lunch and Mr Wiki bought them the lunch so all we really did was let them go out to lunch with Mr Wiki and they were fabulous good thank you thank you so much cm EA president okay that leads us to superintendent superintendent the admin superintendent administrative updates by our superintendent great uh it's actually fun to listen to hear all the good things that are going on in the district so I appreciate both of you being here tonight and uh sharing a piece that's going on in the corner of the district so it becomes more um visible to all our communi so thanks for being here tonight um I've got just a couple two things um one I want to share with you I was over at the high school our podcast studio is now ready um we did a practice run today with the microphones and the lightings um I'm going to be working with Miss bernacki and two of our um FAA uh uh future Farm students for a our agricultural program so I'm really excited about that we're going to be doing that this Thursday we're going to spend a couple hours uh learning how to do that and do the podcast so we'll be having that come out at the later of the week so stay tuned for that um it's also gotten quite the attention from many of our administrators and our students uh they are all asking to be able to do a podcast or it's actually a blo uh broadcast but uh video podcasting um to share again some of the things that we're doing in the district you know as I said to you before it it's one thing to see things in a newsletter but it's another thing when you're seeing things on you know interviews and videos and things like that to really show the complexity of the work that we do here so we're really excited about that the other piece I'm really excited about is we've got some guests here tonight and so I want to talk a little bit about how our guests are how they're here and why they're here so as you know with our mission statement you know we talked about engaging empowering students this year that was our new strategic plan mission statement that we came up with so earlier this summer I had talked with uh Mr Franklin as you know he's been working with us I think this this our third year yes we we work with Mr Franklin here in the district uh he's um I think a community Mentor liaison and what he does is he works with the high school and the middle school and he works with our Administration out with students and he um goes out into the community and making those connections um and so as part of our mentoring program last year we tried to start morphing it into something a little different um for this year and with this idea of empowering our students to have voice we wanted to focus on creating an opportunity to work on Civic engagement of our students we have some really bright articulate students that are in our um in our high school and you've met many of them coming up for various things so we we talked about what that would look like and so uh Mr Franklin had this idea of coming up with a emerging leaders Civic engagement program and this would be focused on students that are wanting to at connect with the community so they go out to the Villages um and various boards and talk about things that are important to them or things that are going on in our school district to start connecting and having voice and starting to talk about things that are really important to them because you know we would love to see one of our students come back and being a board member at some point in time um so that Civic engagement is really important so tonight I asked uh Mr Franklin to come with several of his students um to share a little bit about the program things that been working on and so uh Mr uh Franklin I'm going to turn that over to you all right good evening board uh Mr President thank you superintendent uh super excited to be here not only uh because it's my birthday I'm super excited because on my birthday um I'm doing what is considered my why and I'm here and I'm in the community and continue to build something that believe is is going to be outstanding so um super excited to be here as the coordinator of the emerging leaders uh the young men and ladies that sit behind me um this process is about grooming the next leaders of our community uh grooming the next leaders of our schools and school boards uh establishing the next state representatives House of Representatives and I believe that the next president of the United States will likely uh wear uh a blue cardigan sweater and sit right behind us at these meetings all right now um these students were first nominated by um Administration within their buildings and then they went through a rigorous interview process where I interviewed over 40 students uh we narrowed it down to appointments of 10 students and when I tell you this group is dynamic this group is dynamic so we've been on a tour and we've started a tour to where we're touring municipalities and we're acknowledging the fact that in order to sit in the seat and be a decision maker even as a mayor you only have to be 18 in fact in Earl Arkansas the current mayor is 18 so I'm showing them and teaching them that rather than wait until you're 30 and 40 and deciding that you want to have an impact and be be a a decision maker the journey starts now we've yet to uh visit a board where the men didn't have gray hair no offense guys or no hair you just didn't have tonight that street continues yeah you just didn't have to look at and I say that jokingly but that's coming from someone who sat on the on the board as a trustee and everyone to my left and right was old enough to be my parent that's a problem so a part of this program is to fix that problem and I believe that one of the biggest flaws in our political system is the fact that in order to sit in the seat and be a decision making a decision maker there's no formal training required and in many seats no academical education required so instead of complaining I decided that I want to be a part of the solution and put together a program that helps to groom and teach and and and help uh individuals understand The Importance of Being leaders within their community so without further Ado if we can give uh a warm Creon board Welcome to our emerging leaders as they come up and introduce themselves all right hello um I am Terrell Henderson Jr I hope you all are doing well and I um want to thank you guys for having me up here I am 16 years old and I'm currently a sophomore in high school I'm here on the behalf of the Creek community and um I would like to use the Civic engagement program to address numerous um issues in our community and School District now today we've been asked to come here and give um a few things that we enjoy and also don't enjoy about the school district so first I'm going to give you three things that I enjoy about the school district um currently right now and this is like overall not just the high school but the middle school elementary school and things that I've seen um first I would like to say I really enjoy the safety protocol that we have in our district I feel I think as of right now that it's very secure and reasonable and it makes me feel safe overall I feel like that we've done a good job with that and growing even with the mistakes that we've had in the district before um every single time we've learned from them grown from them and um just got better from it so I really do enjoy seeing that improve over the years I also really like um our our like our social media website basically is what I'm trying to say I like our awareness off there and um the way that we are able to it does a good job of being updated and also um sharing every special occasion that we have here in the district which is really nice um and then lastly I would also say one thing that I really appreciate about the district is our staff members the administrators everybody around um I really cannot say that I've not encountered one adult that's in this District that does not care about the kids and that who's not here for us so I've always been very thankful for that and I'm very aware of that so those are three things that I would um say that I enjoy a lot and um feel like our district has done well with okay you can stop right there so um now there's obviously um obviously change for everything and there's a good amount of few things that we could change in the district or even at the high school now I'm going to focus um mainly on the high school and this is one thing that I really haven't brought up before but I've heard students complain about it and I know that I feel also a certain type of way about it it's um known as our fourth period class period also known as hero period um this is a 25 minute class period that is um given for students to help with their work um but the class most of the class like when we're in the class we are assigned other assignments throughout the class which is a little bit comes off as an extra stressor and um more work and um doesn't really kind of allow students to focus on what they already have with their other class periods so um I would just say if we could allow students to um have the opportunity to maybe work I've uh currently I'm applying to be an ignition Mentor which is something you um Mentor younger underclassmen in the building um and they asked us a question uh if one thing we could improve in the building what would it be and a lot of the students brought up uh fourth period and how one of the students came from another school and they basically were saying how at their other school they allow students to go on a website and we could do this through maybe Skyward they allow the students to go on a website and um there was like a 30 seating thing and you click a seat so let's say if I wanted to help with economics I could click the seat for my economics class and go there fourth period and then my fourth period teacher would still know where I'm at and take attendance for me that's just kind of like a solution to do it if that makes sense so um yeah if we can look more into that I think that that would be amazing um and yeah like I said before for me personally I know I'm a student who do a million things so it's just kind of like a extra stress off if that makes sense um but obviously ly I not too many things to complain about at the high school overall it's amazing and um I just would like to leave you with a small quote and that's um that you create opportunities by performing and not complaining thank you hello everyone my name is Malachi Cliff I'm a junior at creep mon high school and as Terrell mention I do have to say three things and one thing three things I like about the school district and one thing I don't like the three the three things that I love love like I love is the F our FFA program you know about it you know about Miss beri she's working hard and uh Mr Brown we got that $5,000 grant that I uh that I wrote that got accepted so we're going to get that community garden and you're going to be able to grow your Tomatoes remember uh another thing that I like is uh our Ed Rising program Miss Valerio is working really hard to have us get out there especially with us going to Nationals later in the summer uh even Terell he's going to Nationals with us me Terrell Aaron and a few other students are going to Nationals to represent cre Moy down in Florida so that's going to be nice and another thing so many things uh I'd have to say the support we get from Administration I don't think i' I wouldn't I literally wouldn't be here if it wasn't for Mr Hy Field's help so I'd like to say thank you Mr harfield moving on to the thing to the one thing that really gets on my nerv sometimes all right next next and it would be the roads the roads around the school are completely ja uh yeah Creek right Village or creek yes so uh one of the solutions that I did find was funding from the OT which is which stands for the Illinois Department of of transportation and this is they provide grants for schools to uh fit repair around three miles of walkable and drivable areas around the school and uh I feel like we should apply for that and if you would like to work with the emerging leaders to get through that process we'll happily assist uh but that's one thing that should be really focused on especially given that we all Drive I drive you drive and you you don't want your car your tires messed up but that was that was my little spel it was nice talking to everyone and I appreciate the opportunity wow just so you know we are getting new parking lots Paving for the parking lots so but he he expanded it to roads too well we're start we're starting around our our parking lot for next year so you'll be safe in the parking lot okay apparently we heard you you have a reason to come back in the fall now yeah just take the side streets okay good evening superintendent Mr President and board members my name is Amaya rice I'm 17 years old I currently live in University Park District and I'm currently a junior at Creon high school now that I have been at Creon for 3 years now I've achieved many goals and been giving many opportunities some opport some have been some I'm sorry uh some have I've been able to do a lot of uh clubs and activities at the school um as I mentioned the clubs and activities I would like to highlight some of my favorites the first the first would be our student government program this is my first year of well this is my first year doing student government in high school I did it in middle school but this program this program allows students to make many decisions um and really it's primarily student run which I love because that's that allows the students to make decisions and feel like they're able to have their input and it's just not all adults the next would be the sad program which stands for students against uh destructive decisions um this club really allows the students to um to just really make decisions for the school and it really focus focuses on students uh under like driving Under the Influence which we know it really comes around around Pro prom time and we want to help with that so that we won't have Lo more loss of students and you know our students won't end up incarcerated lastly I would say um I would lastly like to talk about the the hours the after hours that students are able to come with their teachers after School Mondays and Thursdays from 2: to 2:45 the this program really helps because students are able to get that oneon-one with teachers and they really feel that they're getting helped and they're not embarrassed to by other students that are in their classroom so it's great for them to get that extra help uh lastly well I would I love to talk about all the positive about our school but we all know school have their flaws and one thing I would like to talk about about is students using um students using bad substances uh such as vaping and smoking students are constantly dependent on the substances which affects their work in school um one solution that I would like to make a part partnership with you guys on is making sure that there's only a certain amount of students in the bathrooms there's only four all so there shouldn't be you know 10 students in the bathroom I know girls want to check their hair and look cute and whatever but but we have to make sure that we're just checking in and you know we don't want to inv and invade students privacy but sometimes we have to take that step especially as adults because we don't want anything happening in the school when we're right on the ground um so that's pretty much it and I'm so thankful that you guys are letting me speak to you today thank you excellent good evening board members superintendent and members of the communities my name is Taylor stua and I'm a 16-year-old sophomore at cre mon High School obviously engaged in the Cy engagement program I've lived in cre all my life and when I think of our district the first thing I think of is the diversity for students it is crucial to see other cultural cultures in differences around us and it helps Foster empathy for others which I feel like the high school does a great job of doing teaching Black History Month and Hispanic History Month in women's History Month we're doing a great job with that overall another thing that I am so grateful of you don't understand how grateful of um is the fact that you guys pay for our AP classes and acts as a student who's taking five AP classes right now it would cost me hundreds of dollars to get the education that I'm on course to fulfill so I I just want to say thank you to all of those who decided that you guys would pay for what we need it's it's really appreciated I don't think you know how much another thing that is very near and dear to my heart is the fine arts program at our school I am a member of the band from Wind Ensemble pet band marching band you name it I'm probably in it um it's a lot of long hours at school countless practicing money spent but it's well worth it um just being able to express yourself it's an extraordinary program and I think many students are grateful for it now with that said obviously I would I would like to stop there but um one negative of our finite side is the budgeting um being a kid from Fine Arts I've noticed that especially this year our food budget was cut so much in fact that we couldn't food so we had to get money from sponsors who would only donate a little bit we would go to the football games performing for our awesome football players staying there just as late as they were and we would go hungry we would try to fund raise but fundraising the same 60 70 kids eventually people stop buying so what I would like to do is to partner with you and even the band boosters to get our fundraising out there more or apply for Grants anything that us as a community can help get the band more money because whether you believe it or not it's a great program we're trying to go to Great America this year to compete and it costs around $7,000 um we don't have any of that right now and it's in two months so if we could spread our awareness that would be great now here's a Twist one of our community members is not here so I would be speaking for her um my colleague FIA aiz is a 16-year-old sophomore from University Park who goes to our high school um she loves program such as jrc FFA obviously and many other programs she loves the fact that she can go openly Express herself be with her friends and get the support from admin and staff however with that being said she has some concerns regarding our no passes in the fights that are are constantly going on in our school today we've had two fights while still being on no past restrictions the reason for this she believes is particularly because the fights happen during passing period and restricting the many of kids who don't fight because of the 10% that do it's a breach of trust telling a girl you can't go to the bathroom when she needs to use it is very not disrespectful but hurtful with the security shortage you have to call down security now we don't have enough security guards right now so often they don't come till the next period you're sitting there really needing to use the bathroom because you're not the one fighting but you're getting punished she believes that more positive reinforcements should be made our PB program does a great job awarding those who do it through a raffle system this does not allocate any distributions of awards to anybody who does any good and often kids who are the ones fighting do get rewarded which puts down to others so she would like to partner with you and the PBIS team to just find a solution not restricting our passes but maybe spreading awareness to why you shouldn't be doing these things instead of saying you can't do it because the why is always more important but I think I speak for all of us when I say thank you Mr Franklin for making this possible Mr hollyfield superintendent board members and thank you for letting us come speak it's very crucial to us thank you so we can get on one more round and I just want to thank Mr Holyfield superintendent board um administration at the high school and of course our merging uh call them board members because this is a board and what I've been telling them is soon they'll re realize how powerful they are so I want to thank you all for your courage we are gearing up to fingers cross go to uh Springfield on April 2nd for Lobby day hopefully we can we can put that together um so thank you all for your time truly grateful have a great evening thank you can we can we take a minute and get a picture of all the students please a picture just a quick picture of the students because we will put this on our social media website Mr hollyfield get up there there you go thank you we so appreciate hearing from you tonight it makes such a difference when we can hear from our students what is working and what we need to go back and uh fix you know uh sometimes we're not aware of the things that we're doing that aren't working for our students and so I appreciate appreciate your honesty tonight and you know we are not offended in any way that there are things that we can still do to do better and so I I thank you for sharing that with us tonight you know what's amazing is I appreciate you know the three good things right but whoever come up with the idea of bringing up one negative if you notice they all came up with a possible solution corre so how amazing is that that they didn't just come up here to complain or say good but you guys came with a solution you know and whether you're in you know whatever seat you're going to do being part of the solution is definitely the way to go um cuz as we all know there's a ton of problems and we don't want to be more problems we want to be part of the great job tonight coming up with at least a solution for the the one negative and thanks for all the positive reinforcement too yes excellent I thank you all and it made me really proud to see you all go up there and speak um on what you enjoy about the school and and again like uh Mr swall say come up with a solution for those things that are growth areas for the school I guess the one thing I'm concerned about is the food like I like to eat what I what what's the thing with the budget I I hope that um to hear more about that from I'm Not Who sure who we need to talk to or what we need to do but that falls under Mr keki so I'll be speaking with with them tomorrow okay okay thank thank you thank you for bringing that up because I was going to ask the what's next you know um I like the fact that the ideas came but we don't want them to fall on De ears so what's next and so thank you for your followup that you're going to do I was taking notes as well because I was like oh what did that mean and even if it just meant having an opportunity to explore to hear more of the context behind the areas for improvement as well as the pro the positives as well I think that's um time well spent and so whatever that looks like if that means we go to the school and we have a a merging leader Civic engagement program follow-up meeting or whatever that looks like um I think most of us will be open to doing that I like that I'll be following up with Mr Franklin because I want to get a copy of every single suggestion and solution that you had because as you said you want to partner with us we want to partner with you so I think there is room for that followup and then we'll talk about what that looks like and any board member that would like to participate in that uh I'm sure that they would love to have have you everyone yeah may be able to nominate a member of this group to actually sit in me right so that they can come together as a voice of the school and we have a representative that sit in at the board meeting to represent and and and provide U you know ideas and solutions so that's something that'll be coming next year that we're going to propose um but we are working on that um and they will they will nominate their representative that will possibly be allow to sit in and we're going to propose that same thing with uh the municipality because they represent every municipality that is in the district so we want to have representation on those boards as well as this board so the voice is at the table as you know elction season now and many people run on the platform of the youth so if we have the youth at the table and we have individuals that are able to articulate as they did very well and they're a little nervous now but can you imagine next year after they went to every village they've been the Springfield hopefully we can go to Washington this group of dynamic individuals will be able to talk in front of anybody without any pressure so that's the idea so abely well you you kind of took my thunder a little bit because I can tell you we do have the ball rolling with Mr swales and and Mr guy hagos as far as actually Mr hollyfield too working with or trying to come up and we hoping to have it in place for the beginning of next school year to have a leader from from the student body to have a seat at this board yeah in some capacity so you just validated what these two young men are already looking at already yeah we were just waiting for Shire to finish up and okay so you just yeah and I just you always are danzel and forgive me for not calling you Mr Franklin first of all anybody else any other board member like to say something out this no I mean uh we we have been in the works of bringing a student voice to the board um I'm serious when I'm telling you that we're waiting for Shire to finish up because it's it's it's a lot uh Mr swales does a lot uh for uh our Fine Arts um in that respect and uh you know president Brown tasked us with with working together and and figuring it out uh you know uh last year for the Triple ey conference I did a whole day of learning on how to how to do it with Equity bringing bringing a student voice onto the board and uh yeah I think you Mr K met somebody from was it asigo asgo and we were going to go sit down with a board member to figure out how they were able to how that came about so we we're going to sit down and have that conversation so that we figure out how to bridge that together so so I think you guys have figured out like how to do it in the school with the with the students and stuff like that that's where where we didn't know how we were going to implement that because we're not in the school from day to day you know but I think you guys have figured it out so it's just on us to um get figure out how that's going to evolve right so uh I'm excited for it I'm excited to hear to hear all these voices up here um telling us from dayto day what's wrong what's not working um and how would it get better yeah it's again it's it does my heart well to see our future leaders and again danzel I'm going to call you danzel because I know you so well that it doesn't surprise me with what you're doing and what you're getting out of these young young uh students here to become our Future Leaders they they are already leaders in their own capacity and a young man I love that fro what is what is your day Malachi Mal Malachi that's biblical right some somewhat biblical but you said something that's on a personal level you said something about a tomato and I'll just leave it at that I that was but that was so uh it was It was kind of on a personal level a positive thing that was kind of direct towards me and when you said that you don't I don't think you realize how much that meant to me from a personal level so thank you for moving I had forgotten all about that it was last year I think you mentioned it yeah I think I think you sent an email out oh I must have regarding the regarding that the tomatoes well the garden the garden okay I have to get that I have to frame it right because I might you just hit a soft spot in my heart so thank you so much thank you soone and danzel again you have been a consumate leader in the community and your presence just your presence once you get get the speaking you draw people to you that's your nature and keep doing it okay keep doing it we value all what you do in the community thank you so much all right so you cannot leave with all those cookies you talking about food we had money to buy cookies okay all right going to close that take us right now back to number four uh yes yes back to close session I'll wait till our superintendent get here we don't need her to vote yeah we can just go to close okay go gool all right all right uh coming up on our agenda item close session we do have a reason to go into close session for the appointment employment compensation discipline performance or dismissal of specific employees could I have a motion to do as what was just read so move by Jamie by Jamie second by Bill roll call please uh Mr Albert hi Mr dieo says an i Mr swales hi Miss zit stumber hi Miss wol hi Dr Hall I and president Brown all right so we are close session now and we will be in close s minutes and we will be taking action after close session end e e e for our regular school board meeting and that leads us back to number eight is anybody like to pull anything out of the consent agenda if not can I have a motion I have a question first before I say yes or no um when we get to um what we just discussed do we is that separate do we get a chance to pull I thought so that's I just want to be clear yeah we just go to on the way to Delta number eight for this motion okay okay for the uh the business uh end is that under the consider J yes it is all the way to D Delta okay all right so um the the the approval of the uh almost $300,000 um for the construction is any of that none of that is is with the add-ons correct no the the special special add-ons like water no no we didn't move forward to that real quick just hold your thought for sure yeah we would make the motion first and second it correct and then you open up disc disc that's correct yeah uh the opportunity is now to take anything out all right before we make the motion to approve they're asking discussion so I want to make sure sure yeah we can hold back if you don't want to pull anything out we have an opportunity you have an opportunity sure so again anybody wants to pull anything out the consent agenda if not can I have a motion to approve the consent agenda move by Bill second by no and I will let the superintendent read it out and then we have questions thereafter okay okay um under a a superintendent it would be number one approve regular meeting minutes of February 18 2025 item two approve Committee of the whole meeting minutes of February 11 2025 item three approved Committee of the whole meeting close session minutes of February 11 2025 under business item one approve Board of Education financial report item two approve a payment of 61,2 and 59 cents to be construction for work completed at uh cre money High School item three approve a payment of $298,200 employment unpaid leave of absence resignation and educational support staff employment reassignment and tent to rehire and res resignation under item D for teaching and learning it's to approve the cmhs uh jrtc overnight field trip application that will take place April of 2025 and that concludes the report right do we have any further questions or comments uh yes so we're not touching the add-on men from uh bernon Jones um when when do we um look at those items because we kind of have to have those brought back to us my my assumption Jason correct me if I'm wrong is he would bring that to us we'd have to approve that first so I know we discussed it but this is previous this is probably just invoices from the month I'm assuming with what they've submitted for some of the work they've completed you correct Mr spish and Mr go my intention is to bring a revised short-term facility plan um to the Board of Education hopefully uh Committee of the whole in April okay but then so you'll you'll present it at the committee of the whole and then we'll vote on it the next week in April um yes if we if you if we yeah see something we like any changes added to the money we would have to got it he would have to bring and present to us okay good question good comments any further questions comments on the consent agenda hearing none Mr secretary roll call please Mr Albert I Mr Gago says an i Mr swales hi Miss zit stumber I miss wolfel I Dr Hall I president Brown I MO carry leads us to number nine under action reports Alpha business can I have a motion to approve the bid results submitted by first student for special education and prek pupil P Pupil Transportation Services move by Jamie second second by Nelson any comments questions the only thing I want to say in that is Jason I appreciate the breakdown over the last if I had to guess five years it it was at least five or six years of how that was broken down cuz I know at one point your predecessor mentioned it was 80% I think that number's down to 55% that sound about right yeah I know there was a I'm sorry um yeah there was a variance between the years and it went I did you know when you look at it ISB does say 80% but when I compare what was claimed compared to what we actually received it was it was less so I continue to do my analysis on that you know and keep an eye on that going forward so moving forward is there something in writing that that that the state is going to make sure are they shorting that amount or how are they coming up with that formula is it just pretty much whatever we get every year or how do we make sure that we get exactly what we're supposed to 80% is whatever 80% % is right how do we make sure we get that if that's would you I guess look into that to make sure because at one year it showed 80% but I think this last year it might have been 55% which is 25% lower and we then we that's a big number yeah I look into it and I'll including the FYI I know it did decrease it looked like the 80% was the one year we came out the pandemic right around there and then it's kind of subsequently decreased each year but I'll look into that for you yeah I'm guessing about Nelson correct me if I'm wrong four years ago I think this they were behind so that's why that number was lower but it were because they were behind like six months they were behind in their payment so didn't look like the 80% I just want to make sure that if they're behind just we just want to need to know that yeah no I mean it's looked pretty consistent with the categorical categorical September December March June sometimes what I noticed this year in December it did you know it was vouchered in December but then it was actually uh funded in early January so that was a little bit of a lag I know we ran into that problem last June too I think it ended up being funded on June 28th or something like that but it has been pretty close to those four months so what's the total transportation ballpark 10 million for the bid for this one no no combined uh yeah right around I think it's been around 101 million with claimable expenses figure 10 million just as a guess 8 million doll is what we thought we were supposed to get we got 5.5 million so 2.5 million in our budget's big yeah and then you know we Levy for the difference for that right okay I do have a question um this is very competitive bid I think we had four biders anywhere from $10 million to $14 million and this first student one and they are the existing current vendor for our transportation right first student yes they currently transport our special education students and our regular students too right yes and also reg okay what gave them the idea and I think you might have mentioned it last week and forgive me if I didn't remember what gave them the idea to submit something to you that included a price of 22% more without going out for bid what how do they think that this was not going to go out for bid to your knowledge I can't uh to my knowledge I mean I think they probably took advantage or maybe took for granted you know uh them extending the relationship without someone going out and see what the market had to offer so that was one of my intentions to go out to bid for both of them to see where the market is when we started this school year but we know that's a standard right I think our board policy again forgive me if I misquoting here that we have a minimum when we talked about bidding and procurement that if it's over x amount of dollars I think 25 thou $25,000 that it has to go out for bid except certain situations this is clearly over 25,000 but you mentioned that and again I'm not trying to catch you off guard because you know there nothing you did wrong but you mentioned that it's almost as if hey we're saving you said we're saving first student propose to take on the contract for 22% more but at the end of the day they bid it and it came down to 10% yes sir as a savings right so I don't know if it was a say I mean they proposed a 22% extension they end they end up winning the bid and it came out a gain of of 12% right% a good direction remember I mean it was 10% but a 12% difference Mr Brown remember I think at least two years that I've been here the only one to bid right we out for bid no one would even and that's but we still have to go through the process that was my thing so like how did they even considered maybe because of that that they was the only biders but we had four biders this time and very competitive that's why there was a change in St okay good what what's that change it allowed you to extend existing contracts for a perod years get it why did you let me talk all that time and need if you if you gave me a second president Brown I was going to throw right back to Mr GLE you know prior to this whole process I did I want any of you guys telling me you don't like me talking okay you you wanted me to talk all right good thanks Bill that's why you get paid all the big bucks so they changed the statue and then allow us to extend that without going out for bid okay great so should we change our policy if we said right now $25,000 the base is 35 I I think it's 35 year policy not 25 okay um but transportation is covered as it's an exempt service under the code and it's it's covered by article 29 as opposed to article 10 so you guys are still we still okay yeah you're doing fine got it thank you all [Music] right all right motions on the floor the motion is on the floor further questions or comments we had it moved no further questions or comments hearing none okay I uh have a roll call please on 9A Alpha Mr Albert I Mr G is an i Mr SW I miss zumers I miss wolfolk I Dr Hall I president Brown I motion carry number nine Bravo personnel and culture Bravo number one can I have a motion to approve approve the resolution authorizing non-renewal of non final year probationary teachers move move by Bill you have to give the name second by J name the name any questions or comments I have um um questions so I have a comment is and we're at you say he have to get a name first or can I for number one for number one I thought that was I thought that was under number five for the ones where people are yeah that's number five here this no that's a different Mo okay okay here here yeah I think she put but that's saying the same thing is that this yeah okay ah okay thank you Cheryl I knew she had it all right let me go back you have a motion I think I stated it but this that's to approv the res resolution authorizing the nonrenewal or non final year probationary teacher of Rachel Lindon Lindon Moulder that's the person that we're talking about here Rachel lindamer any questions I think Dr Hall was no not I don't not that okay so again approve a resolution authorizing the non-renewal or non-final year probational teacher of Rachel lyen M molder and we have a motion and it's been moved any question question or comments if not roll call please Mr Alber I Mr gagos is an i Mr swales I miss zit sters I miss wolfolk hi Dr Hall I president Brown all motion carry under nine Action Report B personel and culture can can I ask a question before you read that because I don't want to read I don't want to ask the question with the name because I don't want anybody to associate my question to my comment and question to any one person okay on this particular motion coming up before you read before this particular one before you read any any of the rest of them not just that particular one but any of the rest of them um I'm ask it now ahead of time so the um I want to make this not just a comment that I made before I'm going to make this a comment first the comment is I feel like we typically do things that affect students first and then and before we do things that affect um adults and I think that we are by affecting the schools first I think that's wrong I think that we should if we're going to look at anything we could have looked at if we're if we're really trying to be um proactive we look at District first then what affects schools next to see maybe we could have found what it is that we needed to find and that area first before we go uh affecting things that directly affect kids first or people who directly affect kids first so I do feel that I am totally against that so then my second question is if a person received a proficient regardless of if they received the proficient or not they can't moved into another administrative position they have to still interview or if they if they have is that or if they have um I just leave it at that if they have a proficient can they be moved into an administrative another administrative position what from what position that from whether it be principal whether it be assistant principal whe can they be moved into another so there's a particular section of the code that deals with reclassifications of principles that assistant principles yes so as defined by regulation assistant principles could be a little bit broader than what you think pursuant the statute you can reclassify and non renew people regardless of what their rating is the statute doesn't isn't dictated by what the rating is it just requires the rating to be provided and then you're you can reclassify them but you can't reclassify them into a lower paying uh position if they're tenured without providing them with the statutory hearing required by section 24-2 of the illo school code so you normally are going to reclassify people from an assistant POS principal or a principal position into a classification of a position that has the salary set on a uniform basis like yours is through a collective paring agreement so if you reclassify like an assistant principle to a d that would so you'd have if you're tenure you'd have to give them a 10e teacher dismissal hearing because You' be cutting their pay into a non-uniform pay position okay but so if Dean is an ad administrative position it's not governed by the dep it's a yeah it's an administrative position okay yeah then that that would that would be the the rub you'd have to provid the hearing to put them into a position that doesn't have a uniform salary attached to it okay and so it doesn't matter if they get proficient or needs Improvement it does matter okay long but if they did okay because I just want your administrators it doesn't matter okay okay but if they did get a proficient then they still can be moved correct okay okay that was a general question regarding personnel and culture all right so going back to action report under Personnel in culture number Bravo number two can have I have a motion to approve for Reemployment of first second and third year probation probationary teachers Bill second by Nelson any comments or questions hearing none roll call Polie Mr secretary Mr Albert I Mr G say an i Mr swales I miss Z stumber I miss wolfolk I Dr Hall I president Brown I motion Carri under nine Action Report V Bravo personnel and culture number three can I have a motion to approve for re-employment and accelerated tenard of second or third year probationary teachers both Mo by Bill second second by Jamie questions or comments hearing none roll call please Mr secretary Mr Albert I um Mr Gago says an i Mr swales hi Miss Z sters I miss wol I Dr Hall I president Brown I motion carry under nine Action Report Bravo personnel and culture number five four four you skip the start number four stand to be corrected could I have a motion to approve for re-employment and tenure of fourth year probationary teachers move move I bill second second by Nelson any questions or comments hearing none roll call please Mr secretary Mr Al I Mr gagos is an i Mr swales I miss zeit somus I miss wol I Dr Hall I president Brown I motion carry under nine Action Report under B Bravo personnel and culture number five can I have a motion to approve the resolution authorizing reclassification of Administrators that is the board of educational creep Moni Community Unit School District 201u resolution authorizing notice of contract non-renewal renewal and propos reclassification of certain administrators those administrators being Christina Flores Colbert Jennifer Hanigan Caroline Ross and Marquita Phillips can I have a motion to do what I just read move move by Bill second second by Jamie questions or comments hearing none roll call please Mr Albert hi Mr gagos says I Mr swales hi Miss zit somus hi Miss wolfolk hi Dr Hall nay president Brown I motion carry could I have a motion to approve under nine Action Report under Bravo personnel and culture number five approv the memorandum of understanding with the CM EA move by Bill second second by Janine Janine Janine Janine jine sorry I'll get it right we're all sleepy all right uh any comments or questions did I miss it in our package or is there a description of I was thinking the same thing I must have missed it it was listed in your extras yeah mhm it was uh I don't know how the one that everybody have a hard time trying to find it was all those documents it uh Jane were you able to locate that there were quite a few uh this week I can't remember let's see it was a whole list I thought it was 34 of the way down it was like nine of them yeah it was about nine all the attachments were there I saw I never cursed them my life but I did curse looking for that okay I don't see it go ahead may I ask a question sure um is it customary though to have vote to vote for something if we for something that was just placed in the extras and not brought to us we talked about it last week we did talk about all this or that was going to be an extra it's been in your last couple of weeks also yeah was it was a document in there 48 Hours yeah for for the board to look at since there yeah so since last Thursday it was there okay can somebody explain it then since we all since so many people missed it yeah no problem the it's anou we had um involuntarily transferred someone from one building to another due to certifications and needs in uh a building um the building that the person was coming from they had stiens that they were eligible for and were performing the building they were moved to didn't have those eligible because the nature of the building they moved from bmal to the early Center Early Learning Center doesn't have bus Duty and lunch duty stiens so that person we moved because of the needs we needed for the kids due to no fault of their own so theou just memorializes them having the ability to keep their money from those stiens because they did not make that move on their own so it's not their fault that they would be essentially losing out on that money um also create allows us to create other opportunities for extended Duty stiens that might be beyond the contract so for example this person is on the school leadership team the contract allows eight spots she's number nine so that way it's not a total loss to the district on we're not getting anything out for the money that we're spending yeah we we did that because of the needs of the students so that's why we moved yeah and it just identifies certain that this is only eligible for certain High needs positions that are very specialized and I think the way you had mentioned the ELC is a a lot of grand trip it's a different it's not it's not classified the same thing as K2 okay we do have a motion right M and we got it moved any further questions or comments hearing none Mr secretary ROK call please Mr Alber I Mr Goo says an I uh Mr swales hi Miss suus I miss wolfolk hi Dr Hall I president Brown all right motion carry and last but not least of our action items today number nine Action Report Bravo personnel and culture can have a motion to approve a contract for the assistant principal of tala Elementary who's in our presence I believe she is and before you uh vote I'd like to introduce you to Elizabeth um she's being recommended for the assistant let me move this I just got the motion move move by Bill did second second by Jamie okay all right so Elizabeth will be joining us from the tri Tri Creek School corporation which is in L um she comes to us with assistant principal uh experience principal experience um she stood heads and tails above our candidate pool of 11 that interviewed for the position over at tala um she is going to be a true partner for Mrs schoko the principal there and we look forward to all of the great things that she's going to do to help uh our students at tala and move the building forward thank you so much for having me I'm so excited and looking forward to welcome yeah welcome I hope you got a cookie did you get a cookie that here all right we still have to vote so don't welcome her too much don't welcome too much all right or should we vote and you get as scw we're going through bring back the cookies all right any questions or comments hearing none Mr secretary roll call please Mr Albert I Mr gagos is an i Mr swales hi Miss Z suus Miss wol hi Dr Hall hi president Brown hi welcome aboard thank you thank you so much thank you so much where's get the cookies please all right motion carry any old business any new business I have something for new whole business and new uh no new yeah so um I guess we have um I don't know if it's a policy or somebody decided to make this up um on on a fly where you cannot if you are if we allow you as a community partner to use our facilities facilities you can't sell Goods like concessions or drinks or anything um I I think we need to revisit that it's not a policy I don't like it I think that they should be able to sell things even as a community partner um I I know that basketball had a issue with that and eventually we allowed them to sell water and Gatorade because people are thirsty but I guess they can't have any concessions um I wonder I'm interested to see if that rule applies during football season when we let people use our Stadium um I hope not I hope that this is resolved by then and we say yes they can sell Community Partners can sell concessions um even if they're using our facilities for free um so that's one thing the second thing is being able to eat at a basketball game in the gym I have so many people complain to me when I come go to games about why can't we eat in a gym I guess the junior high just implemented something as well where they have put signs up I mean that helps the sales of the of the food because people if they know they can bring it in they'll eat and it's a it's a entertainment facility yes people they're supposed to clean up afterwards they should um we we have custodians that should clean up that's part should be part of their Duty that's very few schools that do that I know Bloom does it and that's one of the reasons like people will go to their games but they complain and they like we don't want to go and just sit outside even if you're playing a game they pay to see the game and eat in the in the gym and it could be cleaned up I don't agree with it it's not a policy it's practice that somebody put in place who I don't know um I don't I think it started before this Administration but I do believe we should and those other schools do the Community Partners pay for the janitorial service that I don't know I I'm not that I don't know but I just um I'm not talk that's not the janitorial service oh are you talking about from selling first you're talking that first yeah if if they're allowed to sell popcorn you need somebody to clean up the popcorn and I wouldn't trust the community partner organization to do that to our standard so we'd have to have janitorial custodians in there are they are they paying for that that I don't know I all I know is it's something I want to visit and I I can tell you is that even during and I think uh Mr guos can can Rouge when we're going to these competitions for show choir the only thing that people are now allowing in gyms is is drinks with closed Lids they're not allowing food in nowhere we went because remember high school kids are at these events and if you even go down to a junior high they're they're kids right and they're going to be messing so um and the other thing is if you bring a liquid in open you bring in open plastic not this you know you know a cup of pop it's kind of spill kids are goofing around they're not paying attention the policy can be amended as long as you have a closed bottle or like everybody has um what are those uh like a Tumblr yeah what what's the name of them St everybody has a Stanley right you bring those in I guess we you could have men something like that but I think that's the basic premise cuz every high school we went that I went to no food in the gym that they didn't allow and they were looking for it but they were only looking for closed bottle stuff no open drinks just because adults are going to take care of it maybe but kids are not going to pay attention they're going to goof around they're going to be kids and they're going to spill I I can say this every gym that I've gone on to with the exception of Bloom allows concessions in the every and I go to a lot of gyms whether it be wrestling basketball I go to a lot of gyms and they allow when we have that spectacular here I was trying to figure out how fair is Creet Mooney compared to everybody else and so you know we allow the the closed or closed bottle with lids and everywhere we went it was exactly the same thing just no food and no open containers cuz you bring in people bringing coffee right you got to have a lid on it you can't have it open so just if we if we say closed Lids but I'm talking concession like popcorn and stuff yeah that and and this isn't the free this is our regular games I'm talking where we pay custodians to be there they're already there and they should be cleaning up that's what I'm talking but I think that to start with that I think that we should they should so it's not a policy I just think that the buildings Administration or whoever buildings and grounds should allow we they should not say that they can't bring get it accidents can happen we have to clean that's just kind of powerful the course I mean they can't they they have to clean up at the football stadium they can't say no you can't they don't say that but I think that they should be able to bring food in if we say drinkwise you have to have a lid on what I I can I can go with that and then even if they bring soda or Gatorade in it has a lid should have a lid on I can I can deal with go with that but to not I think our our concession St sales are lower probably because they people can't bring food into the game and watch it as they eat and watch the the game let's just say this Dr H definitely hear you and definitely agree on some things you said but let's give an action item to our superintendent kind of look at it holistic holistic point of view well one thing I'm I'm firm at is no it's not a board policy obviously probably not an administrative policy but because we want this to happen right now that we have some standard that it is some type of procedure is captured in some type of writing this is how we're going to do it so get if the board is okay have our superintendent look at it bring back best practice you see where we can fit in on this and remember we can change it yeah and then if something happens what one thing is you want to make sure the floor does get ruined because we just finished it 2 years ago yeah but as long as it's protected if something happens you can always change it back yeah right but I mean if you think if you're strong enough how you feel about that then obviously you're right Mr Brown write it up we'll look at it close bottle Lids or something nothing open you know that's I think cuz I see some winds here I see some winds that are allowing you know people you go and get entertained yeah I definitely hear Nelson about who's going to clean up this and all of that and definitely these clubs capturing some monetary value to selling things yeah I think there's a couple things at the table with this um I think you got them all yeah Nelson was on this as well so I think there's our own games yes that's so that's the one piece and maybe it is the closed bottle and things like that so they can enjoy the game we also have facility rentals out there there are people out there that we are giving it to free and we are also paying for our custodians and not charging them for it so I think that's another case though but then if we're allowing the food then then our custodians were paying them were paying them to go clean up the mess so I think that's another layer so I think we really need to look at that if we're allowing to use the facility for free but we're paying for the custodial yeah so that's usually an a normal rental agreement that someone else when come governmental that's just been a practice we have for nonprofits we we let them in for free because they don't come in the buildings without security not now yeah we we but we don't enter a one or two page intergovernmental because there's some liability and all that do they give us a certific insurance yes they have to produce $25,000 so there's no there's no guidelines then well here's the thing I will go look into all of this and then bring something back how's that okay yeah look at some things see what you do it might be don't try to solve world hunger the first time around well obviously there's some wins and we have to just prioritize and see you know how does it and I just wanted to bring it so so yeah because he did bring that to me earlier and we tried to adjust for a particular situation that came up um for this year but I think moving on do we take this opportunity to revisit that and I think we got to get straight the different contracts yeah we need one contract I think you should have learned from the students tonight if you're going to identify a problem come up well I needed the team for the solution yeah you just brought all problems I needed the team for the solu you no you brought more problems than all of those together and if you can't look at the same time his his first question was about the concession stand so if it's an outside organization I I I think there's probably some amending we can do there but the only question question is they cannot use our facility for that so if you have the athletic boosters inside and have all their stuff in there you can't have an organization with their kids kind of rumbling through there it just isn't going to work right because their products in there that they paid for same thing you go to the new concession stand over at this right they have to bring their stuff if they set up a tent with with a grill and they do their own thing like you know everybody knows that you look on the weekends and you see uh the creep bulldogs and you the Mavericks they set up all their own stuff if they played on the field and they set that up that's what we have to look at making sure we're we're okay but I don't have that why would I have a problem with that cuz they're their own thing but they probably can't use the inside of the facility because of all the product and stuff that's already in there you know because then otherwise someone from that has to be here right to just keep an eye on it I'll bring something back can the whole yeah all right any other questions on comments old business this a um I'm not sure but um there was an email from respond now about summer EBT benefits for our students and their families and I think there was going to be some followup I think that was you Jason yeah I can speak to that um Miss Pam's uh Miss pans has been working with that Corporation U she's in communication with getting them to come out to the districts generally we do our Community Partnership the summer food program she'll be out uh the representative from respond now will be there to help uh complete applications and she's working with the Elementary School principles and to get that advertised and publicized so someone will be on site to assist with those uh summer EP summer bucks okay so that was new business that's new okay that's all right thank you good good uh Insight any other comments for new business all I just one if no other I just one I got an email right around 5:00 before the board meeting I got here and it was a taxpayer just kind of sent me an email and say did I know what's going on on Facebook regarding alleged multiple fights at the middle school on the school property multiple fights vocal language and this un acceptable behavior so talk to Dr con and she's going to look into it just can you just send something just that to me that email I will that help very short and I responded back to that person thank you for sharing and I will look into it I got I got one other thing new business or old business or in between new business new business uh so we all got the email from Miss uh cros about the the magazine sure that we found oh yes yeah um and we didn't find anything else were were were other classrooms searched or like were we looking for the other half of the of the weapon I I do believe uh that they conducted a search and there was nothing else found I think I did like a one line comment on that about potentially having detectors over there we don't have currently I thought we were supposed to orig we was actually going down to the elementary school but you know budet we trying to figure out I think we were at the high school to see how it work out yeah and it worked out fine we may want to look at we have a grand at that time okay so I think you know if we can squeeze in something or whatever we come back next year whatever we can look I just don't want to just overlook this to sayy you know C we see what can happen yeah uh um I can speak to that Mr Tobias you have money you say no I didn't say that oh I said um I can speak to that Mr Tobias is looking into the estimated cost to get the Evolve units at the middle school um and you know the number that we'd have with the traffic flow and the uh path that the students take so he is looking into that for me um but uh you know it is not part of the cops Grant we're one year into a three-year Grant but we can definitely see where else we can make funds from available once I get a total dollar amount and bring that back to the board excellent yeah I would definitely look into grants on that in the state because they're definitely talking about that more Safety and Security and I would definitely have somebody look into that yeah excellent I have one more thing is it old business new business or in between this is new business okay you're good or maybe it's just a question does our foundation provide a yearend review of money raised for the board I think we heard some comments you just this conversation just sparked me about needing more funds for additional security measures um I know we have a foundation do they provide a yearend or recap a year summary can we request that you know what you bring up a good point and again memory serves me right I think we have in our board policy that these organizations submit to the board in some capacity that the board sponsor that the district sponsor their budgetary sheets they're financials memory serves the right lawyer yeah you're right your board policy requires that they produce an audit on an annual basis I will follow up with that one too so only a freshman can do that so the Education Foundation does have um they actually had a meeting tonight and I I'm the rep for the board there so I was not able to get uh go to the meeting obviously because I'm here um but I will get with uh Reverend hunt uh to see what uh was talked about at the meeting um bring back um the treasures report and see what what what else we could do as far as was granting that money out I don't know uh if they talked about I I didn't even look at their uh agenda because I knew I was going to be here so uh I have to have a debrief with uh Reverend hunt did I miss something you said money with them to I was say can we still do that something the money out or something you I'm something you said yeah so they they collect money uh they do their fundraising the fundraising event and then they uh collect applications from teachers from administrators from students about dispersements of those like for field Tri yeah right so um if uh say uh a a team wanted needed extra funds for something like can they apply to get money from the Education Foundation yeah and various other sure organizations pto's and what have you I mean I would imagine it's for educational purposes meaning the title so I think that's why teachers and stuff can apply for that because that's what it's for yeah right and essentially you know what I mean if you're thinking groups you got to just be careful when you say it's not for athletics yes it's and again specifically Athletics has a group for that so I just want to be clear you're saying educational purposes so that everybody listening knows that's what that's for yeah cuz he's right cuz somebody from Athletics may say hey we we need to want to go do something in a trip but that's not what that's for yeah definitely good good bringing that up okay you're hired all right if there's no no other new business I have a motion to adjourn move by Bill second second by nson all in favor say I I any nay no Nays we are adjourned thank you public for joining us this evening have a safe rest area evening until we meet again

The development includes 25% affordable units and 391 parking spaces. Public input is encouraged at a hybrid ZBA meeting on March 25th at 7 p.m. Grant opportunities due March 28th, 2025. Ashlin Select Board is offering two grants. The BAA grant up to $4,000 for qualifying 501c3 nonprofits and the community grant up to $1,000 for groups or individuals who don't traditionally qualify for funding. Visit the town website for applications and details. Also, the Ashland scholarship applications are now open and are due May 1st, 2025. Two $2,000 scholarships are available for graduating seniors who reside in Ashland. All students, regardless of school, are encouraged to apply. For questions, contact Susan Roby at 508-5327921 or sroby at ashleymass.com. This week's community shout out. Happy 100th birthday, Gabe McGaryen. A big shout out to Gabe McGaryen who turns 100 years old on March 20th, 2025. A World War II Navy veteran, lifelong Ashlin resident, and former Grand Marshall of Ashland Day.

in this room conference room 229 and a notice will be posted on the legislature's website uh this is a 90minut hearing slot uh as such we need uh our committee observes a two-minute testimony time limit if you've submitted written testimony we have reviewed it and you are free uh during your time to clarify or emphasize your written remarks within your time but we' encourage you not to read your testimony in its entirety verbatim because we've already reviewed and Reddit okay again first measure is HB 1097 HD1 relating to public housing evictions uh this measure reduces the time the the Hawai public housing authority is required to store unclaimed personal effects of a tenant evicted from public housing uh first up we have the Hawaii public housing authority in support thank you very much Kevin Carney in support railen tenno in support Kayla Marie in opposition Jennifer Lum in opposition and late testimony from Natalie Graham wood in opposition is there anyone else who would like to testify on this measure members any questions senator flla I understand um you know you're supporting this bill but um my my concern with this bill is that given on 14 days um when they get evicted or whatever the circumstances come for leaving their home um is only going to add to the problem that we have on the streets right now you force them to move out but not you don't take it person but then we're not going to be able to I mean understand the storage thing is is an issue because there's a lot of my question is that is that the reason why you supporting it because of the um holding the things for 30 days instead of um 30 days you put 14 days thank you Senator that's one of the reasons uh the other is we we have to keep that unit uh not touched for 30 days while other people are in weightless waiting for us to go fix it up so you can have housing and also from past experience what's being left uh is usually what they don't want and it stays there or you found garbage and other things if you leave it for an extended period of time you creat some other health and all that we're okay with whatever the decision is we just feel that when somebody's before they even evicted they're allowed actually few months of going uh to through the eviction by the eviction board not the quote by the eviction board the eviction board has one tenant as requirements and before that they have right to grieve uh so there is a process that takes long it's actually the process is more than 30 days yeah the process takes long before much longer before the get evicted uh the the exception uh that we expedite is if it's a crime like like violence or something like that but for rent uh we very first we take a long time before we even send that uh notice and then they have right as I said to grieve and have an informal meeting then a formal meeting then the eviction process process and then after that they are evicted so what is the time what is the timeline to a regular nonviolent procedure what what would what would what would be the timeline for n rant will probably take at least six months before they are evicted because we we don't just because he pay the first month we don't just go ahead we'll send them a violation and wait again and then wait again then you go through the process but once the evicted uh from experience we have there's nothing of value that they leave a just the unit stays untouch while other people are sitting there so you guys don't remove the items and store them like how you guys do it yeah the houseless community yeah we don't have storage yes we don't have storage where we can take that and and also to take all of that for example a lot of it is reely garbage that we can throw away but other stuff we don't have facility and then we have to incur cost and these are most of our properties are federally funded properties we don't have to funing for that that's the only reason an average how much uh evictions you guys uh I do in a in a quarter uh I I can provide that information for you uh it's not many yeah it's not the only reason why I'm saying I mean I understand he's saying that a lot of that is rubbish or whatever but sometimes even though they had six months or whatever months to find a relocation most of our families going to end up and then this is just my my input um they're going to end up on the beach and then we're going to have more situations with that understand the situation that you guys have somebody need to be in the home um and that's a priority for you guys but then the circumstances of having them scramble whatever time you give them to be uh to vacate the property and to find someplace that they can live having some issues with the rent to finding a new location to live um that's going to be an issue um right I think and and I'm not blaming you for how homeless crisis I'm blaming the the vendors but the bottom line is that this is just going to add to the burden of our families being on a street I mean that's just my no I we I understand Senator the only motivation we have is that we can get that unit at least two weeks earlier for somebody also sleeping on the street uh that's been waiting for that place to call home so that's our only motivation nothing else thank you thank you chair I have a followup question what is the what's the size of the weight list at this point uh we we stop taking names anytime we open the weight list there's about 10,000 families or so that apply you stop you stop taking names because we don't have how long do you I mean how many names do you hold on it before you stop so what we've been doing now uh initially we used to keep it open and we had over 30,000 families and every family average about three and a half so over 100,000 people wait in so instead of having wait for 10 15 years now we open the weight list about 10,000 then we do a lottery and from the lottery we do about 1,500 to 2,000 families that we keep on weight lless in hope that we can serve them within 3 years four years before we reopen it at any given year we have four to 500 units that become available so you hold the the weight list at two two to 3,000 yeah we 3,000 yes and you do about 500 a year correct okay thank you okay um we'll move on to our next measure which is HB 1325 hb3 relating to housing requires developers developing an affordable housing project under hhfdc to assist certain tenants who are subject to displacement or eviction by the proposed project by granting those tenants the right of first refusal of a comparable unit in the housing project at an affordable rate or establishing a fund to provide relocation benefits and offer assistance providing information either directly or through a contracted service how to obtain assistance and exercise the right of first refusal and establishing procedures to track and maintain communication with those tenants establishes consequences for developer non-compliance in the interest of time I'll just be uh reading out those who have signed up to testify if your name is not called you can just sign up uh you can indicate your willingness to testify afterwards um first we have hhfdc and support yes uh chair Vice chairs members demon economy white Housing Finance Dev Corporation we s our testimony and support but also want to note that we would support an amendment that would require um both relocation assistance and WR of first refusal in the new project so long as no requirement that the rate uh must be the same as the prior unit and that's because there's no way that we can we would know what the rate was based on for the previous unit might have been a smaller unit older unit a special arrangement with the tenant thank you tagawa for Maui in support medical legal partnership for children in Hawaiian support chair my name is Dei I'm an attorney with the medical legal partnership and we've provided direct legal services to tenants at the K Park kuio Park teros as well as just general um folks in our community who are facing evictions and housing challenges um we're in strong support of this bill along with amendments that hhfd discussed and I'm going to try to talk about my testimony because it's very complex to talk about how does this apply to public housing projects and how does this apply to all of them so we've seen how the public housing Redevelopment at KP it's layers of financing it's a federal demolition of public housing as well as hhfdc 201h as well as low-income housing tax credits for litech each of those programs has its own rules about what you have to provide for tenants because it's a federal demolition of public housing turning into public uh to there is relocation assistance that's required however if that relocation assistance goes wrong which I think you're going to hear about there has not been enforcement mechanisms this bill plugs that whole it creates enforcement mechanisms at a state level it also creates the right to return which is most important so we're asking for amendment to have both to give the tenants a preference to return to the community that you've moved them from um I'm available for any questions to talk about the complex layers but I will just keep my things short to say it's really complex please look at how this applies to projects that use layers of funding thank you thank you next we have Hawaii apple seed Center for Law and economic Justice and support thank you kokua khi Valley CFS in support hello hotair am I on Zoom please go ahead aloh my name is Jesse liman I'm with kok KH valy thank you for taking my testimony chair and committee members on strong support of the bill I've been working with the community here for several years through the Redevelopment process and we know this is the first of several uh large redevelopments of public housing throughout aahu and perhaps the state and seen a lot of our neighbors our co-workers our friends displaced um stressed out having a really hard time with what's happening so we just want to make sure that this bill provides the maximum amount of support for people from the community so they can return so communities can stay resilient and unified um and people aren't displaced to create affordable housing that brings other people into the community um and contributes to the homeless crisis so uh thank you for this bill we stand in strong support thank you um Hawaii workers Center in support morning chair Vice chair Sergio alilo I'm executive director of the Hawaii Worker Center we stand in support of this bill uh mainly for two reasons uh first you know our office is located at kpt or as if they rebranded the towers of cahil Park um and you know some of our staff members some of their families are there and uh you know they're still trying to figure out what to do for um their family members one of the big issues that that we've seen is some of the folks that do require ADA accommodations they're being sent to places and you'll probably you'll hear from a lot of attendants themselves they're being sent to places that's on the second floor um whereas here at KBT they're on the first first floor because they have you know ADA requirements so I feel like that's a lawsuit waiting to happen itself and second we also organize tenants at with the Maui tenants and workers Association so this is something that's an important issue to them considering kind of just the limited housing Supply they are Maui in itself so for for those two reasons those are the primary reasons we want to support and we want to support of course the tenants here um that are going to be sharing their stories and for the organizing work that IAL legal partnership is doing thank you very much thank you Rona mangay mangay in support hello chers and member of the committee my name is Rona mangam the youth services director of kakua Khali Valley we work directly with youth and children some of them are living at lowrise kpt and some of them are already affected by the Redevelopment plan um we ask the I mean I'm bringing some of the voices of our youth some have to move to other places already in halava and have to take a bus at 5:00 in the morning just to be able to attend the school on time in KH one said I don't even know where I come from now am I from halava or am I from khi I lost a sense of identity others one I don't know why we need to leave this is our home for us so it's not just a space or a building to live but it is a home for love and safety and laughter and cries are being uh shared in their families um our youth are experiencing so much uncertainty and being able to have this bill to help them give them an assurance that they will be able to return to their home where they found safety is a great Assurance for them and help them in this time of uncertainty also the questions is that are we coming back this is the question that they've kept asking so I believe that passing this bill will help answer that question and I hope that you will listen to their voices and answer their questions by passing this Bill thank you very much thank you na Hawaii chapter in opposition chair thank you Dina Sheek in support good morning chairs um my name is Dina Sheek and I want to thank you for hearing um HB 1325 um I'll read this really quickly this bill is about enforcement and accountability to hoi residents to prevent the displacement of families facing Redevelopment in the name of affordable housing um you need to only scroll through and listen today testimony for this bill from people impacted by the devastating naui wildfires and also residents impacted by the kpt Lise Redevelopment that's going on right now um pleading for adequate relocation services and a meaningful right to return um this bill provides enforcement measures that that's what's different about this bill right it provides the enforcement measures for when tenants are as we've seen sent to uninhabitable units um when families caring for disabled Elders are sent to um inaccessible walk-ups repeatedly as we've seen and when families with children with serious disabilities are offered units that are far outside of their home school districts and their medical home providers um we it's especially glaring in a place like k and and um the residence that's happening in the current Redevelopment primarily this bill seeks to ensure a meaningful right to return and as such I urge you to change the or to an end which I'm very pleased has a lot of support today so that residents and especially our public housing residents facing displacement are not simply bought out of their right to return because that's what I fear could happen if we keep it as an or instead they should be given robust moving and relocation assistance and offered the right to return not everyone will come back but it it's a right that needs to be preserved um the governor is currently planning to demolish I was going to say 1,200 1,187 public housing um units to build 10,000 units is a very important project for the state um and it also includes things like Marite housing is going to turn into 18 to 28 story housing um the least we can do is to ensure the right to return for all of these residents um thank you for your consideration and um um and and this bill that hopefully will prevent further displacement of local families thank you very much for your time thank you that's everyone that we have signed up to testify is there anyone else wishing to testify in person so if there are several of you why don't you come up together what so as people come up just fill the seats so you guys can take turns and that way you're not up by yourself yeah I hope I time is correctly uh good morning senate committee members my name is donene Willis I'm attendant and longtime resident of Coho homes in the span of five months I have witnessed families struggle as they search for clarity um the plans we thought would have taken place turned out to be confusing unorganized and careless our own house buing office was not aware of the Redevelopment Only By Word of Mouth the 90-day notice was far from promising none of what the letter entailed were ever offered instead we received options that were far from our district units that were dilapidated or decent units only it was smaller than what we currently have so I'm just one voice are part of the phase one project during our peaceful protest I've spoken to a lot of our tenants and they came up to us like with their concerns and they shared with us um some said they were being moved to Towers to the towers in kpt but they don't trust TMO one of them said they're battling cancer and that the project added to their depleting Health a neighbor of mine recently passed before she was able to see her new place and in her last words she wanted comfort knowing that her grandchildren will be well looked after um this is destroying families we look out for each other we respect each other and we Thrive as one I just hope there would be more meetings for the community than individual family meetings where there are things that were kept in the dark this is what's destroying our community but thank you for this opportunity for allowing me to share my testimony so be before you get started whoever is next you can just come up and take the seat so that we always have two people in the chair like call okay good morning good morning everyone um my name is Le Lulu I have been attended at C Park terrorist homes for many years uh over about 30 years with my parents being there and we've been there since until this relocation re Redevelopment that happened with Michaels and the housing um my main concern is uh I do support this bill first of all is comparable because it is stated on the letters many many many times that where they will place us will be comparable to what unit that we were living at at the time I had moved out I had one one of those tenants that had moved out I think I was one of the first few families that had moved out but I'm still here to be a voice for our community and our elders our disabled our youth our children um I am not a person smart enough to speak in front of you but I do believe that our voices hopefully you folks will hear us all we're asking for is somewhere comparable to our elders and our uh disabled especially because they're the ones who are really affected with this there is a unit that I know that they had sent someone to and they said that the paint there's lead on the paint but this family has a child and when we went to see the the our office in KBT the First Choice was you take that unit or sectionate or evicted and that was it and I even bought it but there's lead there how is that possible I'm sure you have a family too you wouldn't want that to happen to your own child too thank you very much for hearing our voices thank you thank you good morning good morning everybody my name is Salu I live in k for so long like 40 years all my kids are born there and I they all grown but I know like move out I'm scared I usually live where I stay I love my neighbors and I love where I live please just come and fix what is strong the building are so strong thank you so much for you my voice thank you good morning hi good morning um Senator and chair and vice chair and um all those who are willing to hear so I'm goingon to sing a song and I wrote this song your name please for the oh my name is Landa tomino is [Music] are watch our children grow that are surrounding you would you take a look at all the faces that are surrounding you because we our King [Music] thank you and God bless thank you good morning hello good morning my name is JIA I'm also a longtime resident of KB um you know I went to a meeting this past Saturday and I know time is of the essence and it was a beautiful meeting very local kind meeting you know so comfortable speak your mind out but when I look at all the plans that they got going for our Island it's kind of hot broking you cannot stop progress but you can kind of help on how high they trying to build these things in the heart of K that don't makes sense to me trying to save save water and they got these luxurious pools these amenities and half of them they're not even letting the residents used that's kind of brokenhearted to me if anybody knows the wahini from Maui that did a commercial that said it's not so much what you do but it's with the heart that you do it please introduce me to her I love her she instilled that so much in me to say that even though our country America has all these flaw in the situation I am so glad that I am under America but there's one thing I want us all to remember that even though we're a state we are still an island within a state please all these things that are taking place on our Island take it into consideration on how they're doing things a lot of the taxpayers don't even know in the in the area of KH they're going to be losing parking we get enough beefs going on in khur we don't need no more problems so these are kind of things that I pray that all of you would take into consideration as even though I may be older or same age as some of you young like we say over and over you're like our parents our AA or Ohana so please continue looking out for our best interest too because maybe everybody who not from Hawaii great grandfather mother sister brother born raised here go back wherever I'm going be here till the day I die this is my evening [Music] thank you very much is there anyone else wishing to testify on HB 1325 if not any discussion or questions members who canot I guess I would um ask for Dina Sheek and maybe hakeim uh want Safi to kind of come up and answer some questions okay thank you good morning um you know with respect to this legislation you know I know there has been a lot of coverage of um a lot of the concerns being raised and some of the um ongoing rallies that set um I guess on hpa's part and you know with the uh supporters what have you done uh with respect to Michaels because this seems like you know something that could be rectified if we got everyone working together um I I think I'll defer to the chair I know for us we have talked to Michael since the very beginning starting in August and we told them we offered our us to be there we said we work with tenants we went to every single meeting that they had with tenants and kind of talk to them how the communication was not going well that your contracted agency that you contracted to do this was not going well and I feel like we were kind of saying this we work with these folks and I felt we were portrayed as kind of Rowdy people trying to stir up things instead of us saying we're we're talking to so many tenants we're providing them advice it's not going well you're not communicating things correctly I was at meetings where Michael straight told folks we don't have to offer you the right to return and we're not going to that narrative quickly changed maybe around November um where they said okay we'll do it because it's the Pono thing even though it's it's in the hhfdc low-income housing tax credit financing the federal program doesn't require that right to return but it is in the low-income housing tax credit financing that's why we need this bill to make it clear now I can see people saying it's already there why are you putting this in a bill well maybe it's not in a low-income housing tax credit financing for another project that's in your your District if we're offering preferences for everyone why can't we have that when it's not when we've seen them say it over and over we don't have to provide this so I know it's you know that's it's it's the contractors agencies um representatives from hpha were at a meeting in November that went really bad I think it's just hard for us to say we're bringing up the concerns what more can we do to put enforcement that's why this bill is important because it says you can pull funding if you hear that things are not going well thank you yeah thank you and thank you for the question and thank you for everyone uh so there's a lot of things I can't specifically address because of tenant confidentiality at the advice of the AG but I can tell you uh certain things whenever we hear an issue we do contact the developer and work with them and to correct it and most part uh it was corrected as of today about 58% selected the Section 8 and others uh just backing up uh for all of the the tenant and that's 60 families phase one that affected by the relocation they were given three different choices depending on availability one that they can take at any given time is tenant production vouer so nobody's sent to a unit but they have the right to choose any unit in fact in the country not just in here and the the company that's been hired to facilitate this and meet uh they've done this relocations many many times and that's that's all they do for living um uh uh on that so uh no one for example that we have documented as a disability will go to a place that it's not it's just it doesn't happen if we don't have a record of it that is a possibility uh the the the the rate of return uh as as eloquently said the federal government and we the PPT is a federal property does not require it however day one we made it requirement on on the developer in writing to to do that and something that would stick with we want it we want to do this but the the I think one of the biggest issues relocation is difficult for everyone and it is really difficult and nobody wants to live to leave where they've been living for for years uh but we also look at our Ohana family at kpt but we all as the state of Hawaii as Ohana as well those people that have to leave Hawaii because they don't have a place that's why we have to do three developments uh the backlog that we have uh if we were to fix this keep 1180 units into 1100 instead of 10,000 uh it's close to $700 million so we have to do this private uh private Public Partnerships we I'm not disputing that I'm more interested I mean we we're working on the Marite project for many years and that you know was a really important Tod project which somehow you know never quite materialized but I think one of the concerns I would have is that this particular developer has been um in the middle of a number of other problematic uh housing uh issues in other locations and so you know it seems that uh hph would be um really aware that maybe additional assistance needs to be provided because in this particular instance you're dealing with really long established you know family networks you have kkv right there right next to kpt it's it's kind of like we would know in advance that this is going to be a a very very difficult you know set of relocations so I don't know if hph has sought to obtain additional assistance for the Development Group because um this is not new yes we have okay and uh I'll update uh this party right after the board meeting on Thursday okay thank you question followed by Richards yeah just not as a preview to the development just listening to the community been there uh lifetime um they doing swimming pools what are they doing over there there are no swimming pools at KP okay so so what is the purpose of the Reconstruction for you because you just came a little bit in the end so is that for Revenue stream to go high what what's you saying about the he to to no just see it can increase density uh this this property is federal properties so we choose them because of the subsidies that stay with the property we also choose them because of the tenant protection voucher that the federal government gives to the people so when they are displaced they have place to go anywhere they want with that voucher so we doing it not what we building is still affordable housing we're replacing one for one one the existing housing let's say we demolish 60 we replace 60 then we add additional affordable housing this is not a uh it's all 60% Emi or less everything that's going to be built at the end of the day so the 34 units the first hour for example it's all uh 60% Emi or less and anyone from the tenants who would like to return they return at the renovated brand new unit and they still only pay 30% of their income Senator Richards yeah woman I was going to call up I think she just took off so if she comes back I'll I'll ask to speak to her Senator Mel oh [Music] yeah picked the heck of a day just everybody knows know he's a good brother but this is business oh yeah and so um I'm looking your testimony and I'm noticing other groups that are for affordable housing yes in my backyard Chamber of Commerce of for the bill you guys do not your testimony is based all on affordable housing I looked at na opi's mission statement you're a commercial real estate development so what is a commercial real estate development entity that is focused on Commercial Real Estate doing testifying an opposition to affordable housing measure this isn't your space is it no so thank you for the question Senator and just to clarify so NAA poai is a commercial real estate development uh Association but we include um our members include developers that are in the affordable housing space as well as many lenders in the affordable housing space um majority of the the major Banks here in Hawai uh are a part of our membership so uh we do typically weigh on an affordable housing um you know measures and we just did want to provide uh the clarification in regards to how this may impact um financing for affordable housing um because of due to the right of first refusal being capped at um you know the current uh a return of a current rate existing rate and rent um that may impact a a Project's viability moving forward on the financing point because it creates additional risk I think these entities should step out from behind you and be testifying here themselves not Nai because it creates a very interesting picture for the public when a commercial real estate umbrella entity is testifying against affordable what is obviously a needed thing given the testimony I especially point to yes in my backyard and to the Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii to show that this is about housing affordable housing as such so that's the reason why I wanted to ask these questions of you but thank you thank Senator okay Senator Richards yeah thank you thanks for coming back up did I understand correctly that you have moved um no I have I'm personally still a part of the phase one project there still well over um 20 families there you're the one that has moved okay all right actually stay there because um by the way thanks for coming in today really appreciate it so you have moved yes and you the accommodations you've been moved to are they Equitable are they acceptable actually I moved out out of the housing okay and I didn't I I didn't get the Section A voucher okay yeah I actually if I can just say a little thing about it I actually moved out because my children helped me get a place off the market because um I have a heart condition and I and they know it was really stressing me out I was admitted at Oregon when I went to go visit my son and from there he just said you know mom we'll just take you out of the housing itself and from section 8 because even though you do Section 8 there's not too many units that accept Section 8 and we all know that in Hawaii and there is a waiting list you know we've been because before um moving out I did go to senica trro with Michaels and did the uh everything for moving into another housing and um even the section8 you know and so I did all that with them and um I'll be honest I was one of those tenants who ow who did ow and I did have a balance I'll be honest with that and um but I guess my children seeing how stressed out I was they just felt like just to take me out so the only reason why I'm able to still afford is because of my children who helped it's not because of me and my husband's in come no I will either be living with family or basically living at the beach or somewhere homeless honestly just being honestly you know because we wouldn't be able to afford that the rent that my children are paying for us off the market okay all right thank you and I mean you're here Tes because this isn't front you because of the importance of what we're talking about here yes I'm here for voice for everyone that is still affected in Kio Park Terrace honestly there is more than 13 families left at the property you know I think so I I'm not sure but somebody was saying that it was 13 families left no it's more than 13 families when you walk around and you knock on everybody's door we to um update them with the meetings and what's being going on you know know because I know there's families who are also working you know and have young children or especially the the disabled and the elders so we're here to be a voice if it's just one or two but we'll be here to voice our concerns for everyone okay thank you and for clarification do you support or do you oppose we support this bill okay thank you thank you thank you chair members any other questions okay okay that brings us to the end of our agenda today um we move directly to decision Mak yeah okay so we'll move into decision- making the recommendation on the first measure House Bill 1097 HD1 is to uh pass with a defective effective date of July 1 20150 any discussion chair Senator mckel thank you um I'll support the recommendation with reservations I feel more comfortable if it was a default 30 with um special conditions it could be moved to 14 but I think the way it is now I have some concerns so reservations for now so noted any other discussion not seeing none Vice chair passing with amendments chair votes ey thank you Vice chair also votes ey Senator movi uh reservation please Senator Richards I Senator a I measure is adopted thank you very much and for the committee on housing will make the same recommendation but will defer decision- making until this afternoon 1 p.m.

so you could start a little earlier because if you recall that's a pretty robust conversation um really good dialogue and we have asked our iasb trainer to or um consultant I think the new title they gave them is consultant or something like that um to hold that date for us um because her calendar was filling quickly we were losing dates as we were collecting dates from you so um the other question I guess with that is do you you you know we had eight buildings present in one night even with a special board meeting if we keep it clear of any other work is that okay for you or do you want some of those presentations to happen on the regular board meeting night on May 21st is that right May 21st do I have it right yeah thank you all right so May 21st that would be the regular night or do you want all eight just to be on that special night and part of the reason why I'm focusing on May is because our SLT teacher reps and our principals not all our full full year principles and our teachers also um break for the summer a couple days after this so I want to be mindful or cognizant of their time in that so um how I guess we're looking for direction from the board as to how you'd like us to set this up my opinion or my feedback is that uh all eight in one night I would agree with that so that meeting that would be the agenda basically correct I think that's the way we should do it this is somewhat related to some conversations that a number of you had with me as board president as about like over stacking board meetings and then let's focus on trying to create these instead of going to two a month board meetings let's do these special meetings on an alternate to minimize our for our special conversations at these other meetings also so that everybody if others are interested in coming they're going to hear about that topic as opposed to to the rest of the board agenda items Raquel uh I think we all be on one nighte you too all right okay so Cindy if you can make sure it reflects that May 29th we'll need to go ahead and and prepare for a special board meeting and we'll make that official for the board all right and then um June 25th I'm if we're doing all n are you good with the district's presentation being on June 25th then sure okay all right great just a note June's packed yeah because we have three meetings that month sounds Gooden to yeah yeah you're welcome to come public comment yeah maybe she laugh for three minutes um team is there anything else that we need to cover with dat or are we good to go that covers everything Cindy are we good to go too I can Jun that we are going go Jun are you considering are you considering speaking at the June 10th meeting about changing the dates because we are it's planned that we're supposed to vote in April on these dates she's referring to next year's slate of regular board meeting dates so I will say Danielle I do think it's a worthy discussion I think probably though in the sense of planning we probably need to keep these dates absolutely and then that'd be discussion for future no I was talking like going forward so that when we so next time like next year at this time we don't just have Tuesday already but have that conversation before determined exactly okay yeah great all right so we'll bring your slate of regular board meeting dates for FY 26 to the April board meeting take action and then we'll prepare special board meetings as discussed tonight awesome okay board matters all right so the board matters tonight is a follow-up to our board matters discussion in February um as you heard earlier um Mr bman presented his uh Viewpoint of house our meeting on Saturday we met with Bick it was a great conversation I want to say almost uh the scheduled 2 hours that entire time almost uh was spent on the presentation both Brad and Natalie alel did on our work not only just in the district but the history of where this came from you know as a mandate from isby back in 2003 then isby requiring learning standards around social emotional learning in 2004 and then our journey as a state and as a district so it was a great exercise in helping our parents understand that framework and then where we're at today and then where we're going in the future um almost all that information has been shared with you whether it's come through my weekly updates to you or some of the presentations you've seen or some of the reports we've shared with you and presentations we've shared with you but it was nice to be able to provide that for our parents at Bick um they have been if I'm being honest this entire year our B group has been a great source of feedback as you know leaders of the parent leaders of their stakeholder groups the pto's beefy baath music Buffs um Bea besta stage stage thank you I think I got oh bspn and bspn our special ed parent Network so it's been awesome so um we tonight wanted to show you now we provided a paper copy of it for you but we gathered feedback from the parents we wanted to see if you had any feedback tonight after having uh maybe not enough time to digest that's what I want to hear first you know I know the packets come out on Friday and sometimes life happens life happened to me on Saturday because I had In-laws in town and family and want to thank Brad for finishing off the big meeting for me where because we didn't even get to the wraparound after the two hours so Brad had to cover that for me um but uh yeah so Holly has queued up the documents so you can all take a peek on at it let's start with um how about our D what do you think parent guide first yeah okay so want to thank Brad and Tony for the collaboration around this this particular document there's you know good teamwork here and this is we try to put this together in listening to you listening to parents listening to feedback we received and thinking about how do we stream some form of a manual or guide to help parents who are looking for one spot to find some information and steps this is what we have we have not Incorporated any feedback we received from Vic yet uh just FYI so the meeting just took place sat so chance the comment you got from Vic is it fairly adjusting things or there not so much like structural revision no actually it was very positive okay very well received um I think they just had some minor thoughts the discussion actually started to Branch out into like okay so how do we still though how do we engage parents and you know like it just kind of really evolved into a nice conversation about what do schools need to do what does you know what what do parents and families need to do like what are what are the symbiotic relationships we have and how we can all help each other be partners in all of this work um um we talked about certain aspects of communication parents were able to note certain things that they have seen are noticed from the district and then parents asked questions about could we consider doing this or that and so we took notes of those things um you know and then one of the things we're realizing is you know we want to continue to find a way to bridge a lot of the work that's happening here but help show the connections and how that work is foundationally supporting everything people are talking about when when it comes to our desire to continue to grow the sense of belonging response rates that we see our our students reporting to us right I mean we aspire to hit 100% right I mean that if we're talking any of the board's goals that you'll be looking at as an organizational thermometer we aspire to be 100% right that's that's the goal but so how do we keep improving I guess is the better way to put it that was the conversation okay good yeah this is Brad is there anything you want to add did I no this you know one of the our main takeaways from our last discussion was really improving communication so this is an attempt to do that to really give parents um like a more concise less policy driven way to access the information so there align with our board policy that gives more information that a parent might need if they in this type of situation right adult learning is like a shopping cart you don't put it in your shopping cart till you need it but when you need it you really need it so we want to make sure parents would have access to this that it's concise it's not educational jargon and that they know what's going to happen and when it's going to happen um as we follow up on U these incidents that do happen I was going to say this is effec of the same group that the state required kind of Workshop or whatever it's called from the state from a bullying perspective on the bullying policy that reviews it that you guys met with before same group yeah so may not be same individuals because I know sometimes people float in and out of that depend on availability or it all the same all same people so they had a little bit of background about what we do and we talked about communication as a big part of that um there's two other pieces that we want to show you tonight so this is just one of those so how you want to click on that parent Communications one this is just a a sample so this is kind of what we talked about towards the end of our last discussion around this is looking at um really beefing up some of our communication so I would say like it's very stressful when a parent is contacted whether their child is the aggressor or the recipient of of bullying so um our legal firm has these and I think they do a really nice job of giving parents really specific information about the process what's going to happen what that looks like what that sounds like what that feels like um and what potential outcomes could be um and I think that's really what parents are looking for sometimes in the name of confidentiality we're a little bit more General and I think in these situations parents want more information is better for them because they want to know so this is an example of a a number of letters that are provided by our legal council and their firm to help give parents exactly what they need uh if their child is experiencing that and they have letters for both the aggressor and um the victim in that situation which I think do a really nice job of giving really specific information about what's happened and what's going to happen so that's another example where we can deep up communication and then Tom you want to talk about the last one sure can I ask a question about this one first yeah I know things vary a lot but is this like the first that a parent might be seeing this like is the letter or is there like usually some sort of phone call conversation discussion that's happening prior to this it's usually a phone call but I can tell you um when you get that kind of phone call it's like going to the doctor's office you want someone there taking notes right so this is like the follow-up letter that's what I'm trying to just make this the followup if I saw that at first I'd be like yeah this would be a very intimidating letter to receive in the mail but I think after a phone call this is exactly the type of information I would want about my kids in that process because it would lay it all out and I'm probably when I was on that phone call um upset and emotional about that situation and I'm probably not thinking straight or taking good notes while on that phone call and they don't need to because it's all right here so I think that's kind of the the purpose of this but because of our timelines we can't really use letters we have a pretty tight timeline on these pieces and mail's been pretty slow L um so again the construction of this document was based on the feedback and discussion we heard right going into board policy link then going to that specific uh section of our board policy manual you know general public that's a that's not an intuitive place for them to navigate so that's why we took your feedback and the conversations and tried to create it as a parent guide something that can also and this was actually part of the big feedback that we can use where buildings are proactively sending that as part of their Communications and saying here you go like you don't need to navigate our website here's a document and then it's hyperlinking you to any of the policies you would actually want to read right so like what we try to do was meld the official language and policy language in there but meld it into a document where we can just send it it to people and that was kind of like the positive aspect I think B appreciated and and finding more ways to do that kind of thing right um so the next document then part of the conversation the board had if you recall was well what about internally right for staff and administrators right and we had talked about hey maybe we could find a way to try and uh ensure that people understand what the flow of the steps are internally in the organization right even so it's again kind of a similar notion we have everything in policies and administrative procedures but you have to like clink uh click and go to different spots so this document uh begins with just an introduction of the actual board policy if people want to read the full policy again we've linked it here but this is the guiding language as to how we handle all of these matters then um as you go down these are as straightforward as possible so that it's it's consumable digestible and easy for people to follow these are the steps that would take place then and then so if PE there's a reporting form which needs to be completed you see that form There's the link you click on it and then the investigation begins and then there's some notes that all staff and administrators can be reminded of embedded in here um one of the oh actually H stay there if you look at 2D 2D was actually part of bick's feedback back in the fall when they said hey you know a counselor is trained to be a safe person but a student may not necessarily say I designate that person as my safe person right so we wanted to make it clear that if a student feels like there's a safer adult for them or a more comfortable adult for them to support them in that meeting or conversation all attempts will be made to meet that request there are sometimes again some whether it's because of the situation or if literally the teacher if it's a teacher is teaching their class it may not be we may not be able to pull and then if the student says I really need to share my complaint now you know that could be a difficult timing perspective wise but um and then sometimes depending on what the the potential um situation is it might require that an adult cannot be in the room depending on how severe the case may have been or situation may have been you know again those are some of the factors but we wanted to make note of this reminder so that it is in there it's very clear to staff and to the administration this is an expectation okay and then I have a question oh about that um so it says maybe question have an adult so are we saying just so I can clear any adult like let's say I have a let's say I have a niece that goes to a school I mean I'm not part of let's say I'm not a board member either uh so I'm just I'm just an ant of this need don't work in the district and they say you know I would really like to have my aunt come in or are we saying it has to be a bavia staff member uh I the intent would be a staff member okay um in order to help us move that process as quickly as possible given that we are pretty under tight timelines so it would be that's why typically you know if a social worker or a counselor available and but you know we took into consideration that feedback and you know I just want to make it clear like I I so people don't say well you said that's actually good feedback for us I mean yeah I like it yeah more clarifying language because there's a logic that the I made a note staff person oh you got it trained to manage the process be at least somewhat aware of it right or have resources available to become trained if they are selected because they're you can't force a auntie Raquel to go through training to help them go through the process right yeah um can you scroll down thank you all right so then we had talked about specific sets of questions and how we would make sure that there's some consistency to the process and the flow so we've linked those here um but again there is a reminder because every single situation has has its own independent variables from case to case so while we have General parameter questions which here would be linked you know the investigator sometimes has to kind of move with where the the complaint is taking them right um in order to get to the heart of what's Happening Here and and learn all the details that might be impactful into the case and then we have our conclusion and that will be the final step um and this is another part of what we shared in the fall uh you know restorative practices is obviously one of our most preferred ways of trying to resolve conflicts between peers or um really anybody in the district and well you know just a reminder though that we can't force restorative practices when a party is not willing to participate in that otherwise you know from a training perspective that I've received about restored practices you know that just doesn't work at that point um so we would probably have to default them to more traditional measures but uh having said that you know we're always looking to do that one of the other things we shared in the fall you know the district the board actually the board approved that contract where we're using Counseling Services now and being able to bring in supports when there are situations so that economics uh of a family situation are no longer a barrier for families and students to receive this kind of support if there's something going on in the school right and so we'll be able to call them the counselors will come to the school site and because they're uh are local to us they can be there uh pretty quickly so that's a huge benefit and again that's something you approved in the fall so couple questions so the for restorative practices um about percentage wise how many parties choose to do restorative practice versus they don't want to be a part of it do you know I don't know that data off the top of my head and then the second thing let's say we decide like the parties decide restore practices do we do that or does that counseling party most of the time we try and do it first okay and then if it's uh you know maybe require some outside support serious situation or there's multiple parties involved you know we may need that extra support but typically we we our teams will try to handle that internally all right so does the board feel like this is heading Us in the right direction I mean is this kind of based on your February discussions and the things that we've tried to visualize to help our stakeholders I mean is this kind of moving Us in that needle because we still have the flowchart posted um that Holly and Brad worked on we have that and it's not going to replace it we're looking at the and Factor right so like we have that there now we've got the parent guide we're going to you know we'll we'll uh need to format this so it's kind of like sharper right we'll sharpen it up when ready give the feedback on the flow chart did you guys do that during Beck yes so we we that was a part of the conversation that we had uh back in the fall no like um we looked at the flow chart last month and then you guys were going to show it to Beck and get their feedback did we go over the no we spent all of our time on this stuff yeah okay wasn't wasn't that going to be done I don't recall the flowchart component but I don't remember I don't remember specifically with at bi being at I mean I know we were talking about I can't remember if we said it be presented to Bick right because we were talking about stakeholders and you guys were going said that Bick was coming up and that's where you were going to have that discussion of the flowchart because I was asking who was going to utilize it and whatnot Danielle yeah I was so focused on getting us these manuals and guides because the conversation was the flowchart wasn't meeting the steps that you guys were looking for that's why we had pivoted to these two particular documents I think everyone's feedback was that it was good I was the only one that had concerns about who was using it and want that's why I was like can we get stakeholders you know like students and student staff parents and that that's where I was like oh well we're going to have a group of stakeholders here on that Saturday they could take a look at it I can still engage that I can still engage that I think my question still I mean this looks I mean this is helpful I'm sure and especially if you got feedback from Vic that you're implementing I would personally like to take a little more time I I did not feel dive into it I'm scroll through I love the links that's wonderful and it's kind of like easy to follow along pretty digestible that's great yeah I think when we were talking about some of the stuff too was our students like making sure that everybody understands what's happening what they should expect um and I know this is kind of more towards parents um so you know if we have the flow chart should we still ensure that people are finding it helpful where we also and this um so I'm a little like confused where the flowchart review didn't happen because that was the book of that conversation I don't think we talked about I mean this is great like I'm not trying to be like this is not great but yeah I took away from the conversation that this was a big part of it trying to figure out how to expand those a bit that's I'm just saying what I I don't remember talking about that we would have a document in place I love it I mean don't get me I love this also I don't want an and without addressing the actual flowchart that we said was going to be used for everybody all right um well I already have a spot that we can easily Place student voice in the feedback of this uh Dr Smith is going to be kind of holding her final Summit meeting with her uh principal Advisory Group and she's reached out to me asking are there some superintendent level items I'd like to see what her student leaders would like some feedback on so this could definitely be one of them comes up next month I believe so so what are we using that um flowchart for then well we originally the flowchart was created and designed to try and help convey the stepbystep process that the board you all were asking us to kind of try and create like a infographic of some sort and again that's why if I misunderstood that is my apologies I took away from our last board meeting that the flowchart wasn't enough and that there more step-by-step design that's why the conversation went into like when we I had read some of the administrative procedures if you guys recall and I said it's linked into to our board policies and administrative procedures and it kind of provided the steps everyone was looking for but then the conversation became that's a hard place for to expect parents to navigate right and that's why I I kind of took that charge from the board as all right let's look at ways then we can create communication tools to help make it easier to digest and consume you know to Brad's Point like a parent manual and guide being right there when especially you know if you're undergoing a situation an unfortunate situation that you have a resource right there instead of having to navigate our website and figure out which policy they have to follow in and what procedure you have this manual in front of you um but if there was more feedback on that that that's my Miss then but I can find a way to get back to those uh parents to get the feedback but we still have an opportunity to get our student feedback because we haven't even had student feedback on this yet because there hasn't been a good opportunity for that at this point yeah maybe this is I mean this is not part of that conversation maybe in our Workshop but I think we've talked about when we leave board meetings having action items so that we're all on the same page because I I know what my intentions were and I feel like my communication was pretty clear I don't recall ever deviating from the flowchart itself um so yeah I I mean yeah I love personally to take a little bit more time to just like look through it because I really haven't been able to digest it I love the idea of an an I love ANS um and like I said I love the way this is put together and I think it's it definitely takes out like the it allows that layman's term so that anybody looking and then they can dive into the bullying policy I think that's what we talked about like with links and all of that um I would like to ensure that students have something that is very easy to follow along with as well and I have not looked at this like next to the flowchart to see like are we hitting all the same spots that the flowchart did have and I think that's my take away from it is I like way you put it up an ant right like the flowchart can only do so much because of its simplistic intent on relating information in visuals so this was and I think what came out what I took away from the meeting is the flowchart maybe is settling in on what it it needs to be as a high level understanding of it but if you got to dig in of like how does a parent consume the process that's where this came up and how does are there are there like what is an example of the form that might get filled out so that a parent can kind of see that I vaguely remember that as a part of conversation too so I think it's an and thing and so I think Tom like you're saying is I'm trying to get to like the action item you're talking about is like if you're going to the bring it to Dr Smith about the flowchart get their impression as a overarching thing and then anything about this that they might do and then find a way to feed back to a couple other um you know bit groups or send it out for comment to the bit group even if there's not a meeting per se no the parents are very responsive on their email I can do that too I just remember a part of the flow chart like and I I don't remember what part was saying like you know you're notified here's the link right to like the letter that you would get or here's the link to the steps I remember saying that um in the flowchart like a step if there is like a link or like to the policy click here for the policy and then after 10 days you're whatever there I remember wanting to be hyperlinks yeah but and I don't know if these would be part of the flowchart hyperlinks at well it would because your comment was that you wanted to make sure that the principles were all aligned to the changes that were being made and and being implemented consistently um and Danielle for you the comment I had taken note of was that um coming out of our bullying discussions feedback from others is that there was a need to know more about the process and so that's why I thought these guys were going to meet kind of what the whole board collectively was looking for in in each of your um processes because RJ had said something similar to you when what he was saying was what are the step-by-step processes and can those be shared somehow in a format so I think that's why we were looking at the flowchart alone was not a good enough Standalone document and that's why we pursued these particular aspects to see if we could try and reach both the internal group because of some comments and then the external group so but again I mean by all means we can still get all this feedback um if I missed from what we wanted to do with the flowchart yeah yeah I think these are an and like you said Absolut like to me in my head this is just my head the flowcharts the I'm not involved in a process I'm not actively being bullied I just need to know I want some awareness of in case it ever happens of these are the steps it might go through but like if you get involved in the process and these are kind of a way to help you navigate that if you're child is involved in Bine in some way shape or form I thought a flowchart I could go I think could go either way where hey yeah it's here available you can always look at it it's a quick visual but it's also nice to have something quick at your fingertips as as as like we were talking about being like emotional right you're you're this I this is great but like it's going to take me personally if I'm like oh my gosh my kid I'm not going to flip through like documents of a visual is easier for me like to take in right I will eventually go here for sure but like as something's happening I need to know when you know what do I do right now my kid just came home you know blah blah blah that flow I think that flowchart that visual is super helpful in the moment as well as as as well as like hey I can look at it if I'm on my HCS website right and it's it's there all the time all year I may look at it probably not but I may but I think that's the end and I mean I just want to go back to my point that I was trying to make was that I want to ensure the people who are utilizing this are like yes this is helpful yes this makes sense to me because you know kids need to understand where they're going how they're doing it what they should expect because not every kid is going home and telling their parents or their Guardians I was bullied today or I reported this and I know that from people who are I mean they have such a close relationship but kids just they're they they're they're doing what they're doing and like there's like I didn't even know that this happened but the kids need to know what to expect because sometimes the parents don't don't even know that it's happening so I just want to make sure that students understand parents understand and that it's what works for them not for us necessarily like not my point of view is not as important as all of the other stakehold understood understood and I think that's what Tom's talking about with his follow-up meetings is starting that process I thought we were going to have the flowchart review though I understand right what you thought was going to happen and it didn't get chance to get happened for whatever reason so I think he's trying to get it caught up is that right yeah um but I I mean like I said I'm just looking at my minutes my notes from our board discussion so I there's a I must have misunderstood that particular aspect of the conversation about the flowchart because everyone started diverging into process discussion and that's why we started focusing on how do we make the process more clear for people and easier to access uh so I I don't think we're far off to be honest with you I because I get it and so we can see what that feedback looks like um I know from the big perspective the parents were very supportive of these particular manuals they thought it was good it was informative and they agreed trying to go into board policy really is exactly the parent like intuitive thing to do um so they were appreciative of that and then I think um us having the students take a look at all those and then including the flowchart and then I just made a note that um I I'll work on a communication with Bick about the flowchart okay okay that was the only board matters item that we needed to follow thanks everybody right all right Administration comments Tom is there anything you would like to share yeah all right so um as we continue our journey Guided by our new strategic plan uh I think we often focus on our continuing area of growth and Improvement um tonight I just wanted to take a quick moment to reflect on the outstanding achievements and the um you know the immense Pride that I think a lot of our staff you heard it here tonight in the presentation and celebration that our staff takes and and what they do with our students and what's happening in BPS 101 uh just to begin with every board member tonight should have received a state runner-up medal and a state pass as token of appreciation from our football program um the coaching staff and the students are very appreciative of the fact that the board continues to support all extra curcular activities I've had a co uh discussion with students and and staff from the the program and I know they um know that none of this ever happens without at the operational and governing level the board supporting these things for our kids and for uh our adults to do that work uh one of the other many bright spots in our district as you may have seen is Pavia High School's recognition with college board AP Computer Science female diversity award um this honor highlights the commitment that we've been making to expanding our opportunities and representation in stem and those types of classes and career Pathways which are underrepresented in that field um congratulations to all our students and our teachers in the administration for fostering an inclusive environment and trying to be as Forward Thinking as possible um I am also thrilled to celebrate three outstanding Educators in our District I want to re bring attention and recognize uh Lisa Hatfield Monica Hubble and Heather mandal who have been nominated for King County educator of the year in their respective categories this recognition is a testament to their passion dedication and the profound impact that they have had on our students and our entire School District community so kudos to them uh the ceremony or the evening event takes place in May um and I'll make sure board if you you're interested in attending we'll make sure you get the invitation in ation um beyond the classroom BPS 101 continues to Showcase its excellence and creativity and Innovation um as you saw from our student presentation uh we had a huge event uh recently at bavia high school my youngest daughter and I had the privilege of attending Rock The Runway at BHS and we were absolutely Amazed by the Artistry professionalism and just the Ingenuity of the event my daughter could not stop saying every time she was recording everything what whoa Dam look you know I mean she was just like you can hear her comments her sisters were making fun of her when she was came home and was playing it for them uh but in all seriousness it was an amazing event and you would never think that that was pulled off by students it felt like a professional Runway did you know that they they don't use fabric that I I just found that out from my friend it's amazing that's amazing whole point of it I know that it's crazy amazing um and so it it was just a St event and just a special thanks to miss Emily Smith and all of our staff and our talented students for putting the on such a remarkable show and it has become such an event that other school districts in our region are starting to take notice and have been going to it to start seeing what they can bring to their schools and their districts and they've been picking her brain to see how they could start it so I just think that speaks volumes to the level of talent um and Innovation that's happening in our programs and schools um engagement with our families remains a priority and just a huge uh you know thanks and shout out to hooverwood and HG storm uh for inviting me personally to the evenings that they were hosting their literacy events um great opportunity for them to bring their school communities together um one other thing I want to make uh bring your attention to an informal attention is that the district will continue to expand its boys and girl club partnership um we will be bringing the program to the east side of our uh uh school district and continue to expand the work uh I'm not going to give you any more details because Holly's working on our formal announcements so I promised her I wouldn't steal too much of the Thunder but I thought this would be a great opportunity to highlight just the continuing efforts of our teams here um add additionally our Special Education team and parent volunteers continue to be a pillar of support for students and families I believe I've mentioned this to you in my weekly update but I thought I should share this in this public space the bavia special uh education parent Network continues to support our resource fair and that is put together by parent volunteers staff here in our district and the leadership in this district and this year brought in over 55 community organizations to ensure that all of our students and families have services and have extra supports that they can have to um you know be a part of the schools uh climate and culture and community and so I just continue to think the level of collaboration that exists here continues to make BPS 101 just a unique place to be um um and then listening and learning from all of our stakeholders is obviously critical to our progress and this year um as you've heard a bick held its final meeting and I just want to say one last time a huge thanks to all those parents uh the parent leaders who have continued to provide their valuable insights and have directly influenced our District's work they suggested communication adjustments to our administrative procedures which we have enacted that was shared with them on Saturday they were thrilled to hear that and very grateful that their voices were were heard um and I think in terms of the feedback that we continue to use them for especially the work we just discussed under board matters that is always going to be an ongoing uh piece of work and so we're very excited and um I continue to look forward to working with Bick and ensuring that they are a part of our shaping of the work in the vision for BPS 101 so on a final note I often say that while we're not maybe perfect we're always striving for excellence and I and as superintendent I feel very fortunate that every I get to see evidence of this in the district I want to thank my team who allows me the ability to get out and see the work that's happening across the district um while they're taking care of a lot of the work that makes this District continue to move forward so a huge thanks to all of my team members and teammates um and I want to say thank you to all of our Educators our staff and our families and students for being part of the journey and the work that we're heading towards right now um I think the work we do together matters I'm incredibly proud to stand alongside all of you and making sure that we're shaping that Vision to meet what's what's outlined in our strategic plan um and I also want to say thank you to the board for your continued support your faith and our discussions in how we continue to raise the level of accountability and good service towards our towards our students so that's all I have I know it was a little lengthier than normal but um there's a lot to share it was a busy it's been a busy month all right board comments do I have any volunteers to kick it off otherwise I'll call a name all right Rob thank you um thank you to miss bules for uh giving us the update on the career counseling services at the high school um I can't remember I may have shared this story before but um I did have a couple uh social events and on three different occasions and um I had conversations with people that specifically highlighted the uh career counseling services at the high school and I'll say in at least one instance specifically um Miss bule's U help in a particular situation so um appreciated that and I think I shared that with Brad and Tom and so I appreciate uh having her come in and talk about some of the work that goes on there so um thank you on that um so I do want to say um thank you Tom congratulations on the renewal of your or yeah I guess renewal of the contract um and I just wanted to share a a few points on my motivation for voting for that contract um so um one I I think Tom's engagement with the community um has been outstanding um I joke with him quite frequently I'm not he must have a clone or something because he seems to be many different events um seemingly at the same time but um so that Community engagement um School engagement uh parent engagement I think uh is one of the uh one of the reasons that I wanted to extend the contract or I voted to extend the contract um the other thing is I think a key key part of being a leader is the mentoring um and then uh so he you know he thanked his team here in his comments but I think he's also doing a good job of trying to develop them and get them ready for maybe their potential next roles and I think that's a very important part of of the job so that was another thing I was looking for and I think I uh my in my opinion i' I've seen that um his mentorship um to his team and not only to his team but other other leaders as well uh within the within the district and then um and probably the most important thing is we developed a five-year strategic plan and I think he has earned the right to execute on that plan so um this contract extension will give him that opportunity and he mentioned accountability I don't I don't believe he's afraid of the accountability and so I want to see I think we want to see you know um that execution of that strategic plan and how it's going to improve the district help improve our community help improve our students as well so um just wanted to share that as my motivation and then finally have a great spring break everyone uh it's coming up and for the March Madness fans go Al Friday night first game so thank you good luck [Laughter] yeah all rightel uh yeah I don't have that much um just happy uh National Women's History Month uh Happy librarian day coming up preemptively and then uh have a healthy and safe spring break uh I want to Echo a lot of what Rob and Raquel said I also want to recognize Dr Smith at the high school uh I thought time was going to get to us but didn't but she announced 74 Illinois State Scholars for Pavia um robs daughter Julia was one of those recognized uh so we're very proud of them uh I got to participate in a lot of events uh I was at the big meeting I've been at the last two and I just uh there's been a lot said about that meeting I just want to say what I appreciate it is uh the engagement of those parents were fully engaged they're there on 8:00 on a Saturday these are already people that volunteer probably hundreds of hours in addition to their regular lives in the service of our students and um from my perspective it was uh Brad's team gave a good presentation but uh the leaders in the community were doing most of this talking I thought and I thought in my view everybody contributed uh which in a big group like that can be rare sometimes so I just really appreciate uh everybody that uh contributes their time and skill and insight to help the district improve I got to go to a couple trivia nights the Bea trivia night was a lot of fun U Miss vanzan she not only has a talent for uh reviewing facilities she can throw a great trivia night too uh she ran the JB Nelson one that was a lot of fun didn't win either one of them I was on the losing teams in both of those but uh we had a lot of and um I do want to Echo what Rob was saying about Mr Kim I want to just add one thing the thing when I see Tom or his clone whoever you're with that day is uh how much he interacts with the kids it always stuns me and I was at um uh HC Storm uh their literacy night and he showed up and he knows the kids or he's at the high school he's at the football game or he's at a rock the runway and how many kids he seems to have a relationship or at least they know he knows them on a first a basis so he cares about kids and that is really what we're trying to do here is um you know Give Kids the chance to develop their skills so they can have success so I'm excited about the future with Mr Kim uh leading us and then um I want to share a very personal thing is uh you know I've often said like you know people will not really remember what you said but they remember how he made them feel and we're doing a little spring cleaning in the kilberg household and I have a 15-year-old son Jake who I love dearly um but uh you know he's pretty to get more than three words out of him is kind of a challenge some days and uh he his room was a little disarray and he had a sort of corner of his drawer that was sort of just looked like junk to me there all kinds of stuff in there and he's cleaning up and he's bringing a garbage bag down then he walks over to my wife Kathleen and I and he hands us this piece of paper and it was in pristine condition and I'm just going to read it here this is actually a copy because this is actually put in a place of honor in house but it says Dear Jake as I look at how much you have grown from the first day of school until now it makes me so proud of you you have worked very hard and has really paid off I loved having you in class your smile brightens a room I especially love how kind you are to your friends keep reading and practicing your math this summerl and extra math are two great ways to do that have a great summer I'll see you in the in August when you a second grader love Mrs cun and when he gave that to us he was standing there with pride and this is 10 years old this is probably the only piece of paper he has in his room it's not crumbled up so I obviously this meant a lot to him I actually had a chance to see Mrs cun shortly after that and it really touched her heart and so I just told her you know reading and writing obviously that's very important but letting those kids know that you care about them and you see them I know she's not alone many many many of our educators are doing very similar work so I just want to say thank you to all the Educators for caring about her kids seeing them recognizing them and making them feel loved as she said in her letter uh so I want to uh just say thank you to her and then again I just want to say enjoy a safe and relaxing spring break when we get back life moves very fast and the next thing you know will be at commencement in NIU so uh to all those senior parents I have a lot of them just take it one day at a time and try to soak it in because it does go very fast that's all I have oh one last thing happy birthday to my father Dean kilberg he turns 76 today so I'll say that to him too happy birthday Mr kber Danielle I do not have um I guess much to share um yeah I mean you guys said it really well um I one thing that the ambassadors brought up was the show choir so I actually went to that last night RJ's daughter is like BFFs with my daughter so we went to go cheer her on Amazing like I'm floored by all of these kids I mean even the middle schoolers like I know they're going to grow up even much more but watching them from their last performance just a year ago to this was like phenomenal and the high schoolers this is like a like watching one of of those like High School Musical shows I it was just and one of our own ambassadors was up there too ka's up there and she has solos it was amazing amazing I just I was flored I mean I was like getting teary with some of these like songs and stuff and they just do such a great job and they're all cheering each other on um especially like the younger kids so it was really cool to watch that and I know there's so much going on Rock The Runway just so much pride um and then as eron kind of touched on a storm Heather literacy night which is such a it's a family favorite at storm I think that most of the families I know attend and when we are another we dragged my seventh grader along with us and she got to see some of her old teachers and all that but it's just such a fun way it's the one book one school so everyone's reading the same book they're having these same conversations they have like a live skunk there it was just because the book deals with the skunkin as if there was some a br but it was like you know it was educational cuz actually showed you a map of like what states it's legal to have a skunk pet in and like this and that and like what they like eat and all the sh it was really really cool and the kids just have so much fun doing it so I appreciate the community time and being able to be part of that but other than that Echo everyone else have a safe spren break sue you can keep it short too I was told that no I'm good uh just gonna say thank you to um everybody for all the work that they do um Administration fellow boards everybody else one thing I was to say G to add on pile on Tom so I hope your head can get out the door um is I talk him you help him it's a double door see him tomorrow morning that W crew I talked to Tom probably once or twice a day no about every other day or so and I don't think I've met anybody that kind of cares more about what you know the kids in the district and kind of making sure he's in touch with everybody and trying to understand to do the right thing you know and we all have different Avenues and different angles and so we're doing it with the right heart and the right mind and at least I very much appreciate that so um so I'm happy to have you stuck with us for the next number of years stuck with me yeah it's both goes goes both way doesn't it so um and then uh just you know I was I've said many times before in these meetings about the kids doing these shows and everything else and like the rock the one Ray I I have not been to very many of them but I just remember because I think I when did they start that ever since I've been on florid yeah it's been a long time but kind like 16 years 16 years so like year over year of kind of how it just continually tops itself with what these kids do is just kind of amazing I we're we're getting into Pro level stuff here yeah and I and I wish all the bands and everybody else having fun enjoying you know the year and as everybody said blink and I it'll be graduation and everybody will all be focusing on other things so um enjoy your time you have with your kids mine are home one at a time over the next two weeks and then my wife and I are going away on our own little spring break so it's going to be a very busy week couple of weeks in The Meadows household so all right thank you everybody um I will entertain a motion to adjourn who is that Mel second second by Sue all in favor

Gabe has been a pillar of the community for decades. Known as Mr. Ashland, he made his mark riding his horse silver through town, driving his black Mercury Grand Marquee, and sharing stories of his incredible life. Even at 100, Gabe remains active, visiting the senior center, feeding outdoor cats, and enjoying scratch tickets. The town of Ashlin celebrates his legacy of service, adventure, and community spirit. So, happy birthday, Gabe. Coming up, we have the APS spring concerts. Join us for a special evening of music at the AMS band's composers concert featuring two exciting world premiieres by talented students and professional composers. The sixth grade band will debut as the curtain closes. composed by Michael Bowden, an AMS student. The seventh and eighth grade bands will perform Ashlin Woods, a brand new piece by renowned composer Brett Abigana, inspired by the Ashland State Forest. The concert will also feature traditional Celtic folk songs, adding a festive touch just after St.

in room 225 thank you for HB 1325 HD3 relating to housing for the committee on housing having conferred the chair will recommend passing this measure with amendments with technical non-substantive amendments for the purposes of clarity and consistency further defective date and also we'll take HH fdc's amendment to require projects to provide relocation assistance and the right of first refusal and the same in the new project as long as there is no requirement unit be offered at the same rate as the prior unit Additionally the committee report will also note noops concerns any questions or discussion or well I guess for the committee on housing we'll make that recommendation and I'll also note that for the committee on housing will be deferring decision making until this afternoon at 1M in room 225 and it over to the committee CPN same recommendations uh Vice chair comment um could you specify whether you are taking up the um the Amendments proposed by The Advocates I think that's a complicated question that do you have a specific oh Amendment your the one that um the organization medicalert was testifying on um in part in part okay thank you yeah I think specifically the the right to return or first preference but uh not the fun okay okay okay any other discussion seeing none passing with amendments chair votes I for the CPN members present are there any voting with reservations or objections hearing none measure is adopted thank you very much where J so good morning and welcome to the senate committee on Commerce and consumer protection it's our 9:45 am agenda on Tuesday March 18 2025 in conference room 229 uh to hear HB 427 HD2 relating to biocurity I will yield to the lead chair on this the chair of the agriculture committee thank you chair and ALU and good morning for joining us for today's joint hearing with the a environment committee Transportation culture and the Arts and also Commerce and consumer protection committee it's Tuesday March 18 2025 we're convene in room 229 and we video conferencing which includes the audio and video of remote participants that's being being streamed live on YouTube in the like the event that the hearing is cut short for any reason the Committees will reconvene to discuss any outstanding business and the public notice will be posted on the ledge's uh website and because of our 90-minute time limit for hearings there'll be a two-minute time limit for all testifiers will have a virtual countdown timer on the zoom screen and we have as chair mentioned one item on today's agenda HP 427 ht2 relating to biocurity part one renames the department of a to the Department of Agriculture and biocurity renames the board of a to the board of Agriculture and biocurity part two and establishes and appropriates funds for a deputy director of bioc security part three changes references to the plant and animal declaration form to the biocurity form part four authorizes and specifies conditions under which the department of a and biocurity may declare a biocurity emergency during which the department and the governor may take certain actions to prevent The Establishment or of pests and prohibited or restricted organisms and okay so we'll start off testify testifiers with the Department of a good morning CH thank you chelse AR not from the Hawaii invasive species Council loha chair Vice chairs committee members Chelsea Arnot on behalf of the Hawaiian basis species Council uh we stand on our written testimony and support we did add a few comments and suggestions in there just to broaden the uh representatives of the board of Agriculture with the addition of the term biocurity and also just saying um we appreciate this bill and also in the last Committee hearing not um removing language that would move the Hawaiian Bas of species count not lville sb100 that would move the Hawaiian BAS species Council to Department of Agriculture and this bill does not have that language so appreciate that I'm available for any questions Mahalo thank you Robert Hof from DNR thank you Robert uh Stephanie Easley from seaps coordinating group on alien pest species good morning chairs members of the committee Vice chairs my name is Stephanie Easley with the coordinating group on alien pest species which is SE gaps purpose of our organization is to try to see gaps in Hawaii's biocurity and we see a couple in this bill that we uh submitted in our written testimony I just wanted to highlight um that we are hoping that the name change of the Department of a to Department of a and biocurity and the board to a and biocurity also has like a substantive change underneath it so that the department has more biocurity expertise we're asking that two um members of that board of Ag and biocurity have biocurity expertise not adding new members but just adding some new qualifications because you know if you look at the statute the duties of the Department of AG to promote agriculture make the land more productive animal husbandry there's really nothing in 2616 about biocurity and then the second thing I wanted to highlight is originally this Bill had a quarantine Authority which would be like a biocurity Authority if in one of your districts like little red fire ant or whatever nightmare pest shows up hdab could come and say you can't move anything out of here we're going to treat this and get it under control before it can spread HOA asked that be removed they said it was duplicative of an authority they had in their administrative rules the administrative rules only apply to locations that sell directly to the public um so this Authority would be like if it was at a resort or apartment complex they could do a quarantine they don't have that Authority in law or Bo so we're hoping that you'll put it back in the bill on page 42 and I'm here if you have any questions thank you thank you Stephanie next is Brian mamoto from Hawaii Farm chairs Vice chairs members of the Committees thank you Brian we had pen in support one opposed and three comments anyone else wishing to testify on this measure in person or online members any questions um all right Senator Deco Department of a so so you know under this biocurity um you know I noticed that um we've had much challenges with invasive species um would you say that dlnr has been Cooperative in transferring those leases that were to address ranchers that have already been helping with the invasive species in this case the acceptance of those lands because we trying to address invasive species and they have been great stewards have you guys looked at that option so that as we start to look towards funding this that we use people that are already doing it versus asking for Budget to do it for you guys yeah uh thank you Senator so um Jonathan plant quarantine branch manager um not a super expert I guess as it relates to the transfer of lands but um the uh proper range land range Land Management um is uh crucial for managing a host of issues um not to mention you know Fire Control and things like that and um my understanding is you know um the department has been working with DNR to transfer lens um I'm not sure as to the speed of the transfer um that's I guess outside of Melana unfortunately um but I know that some have been done um my understandings I think there have been some hiccups here and there um but I'm not necessarily uh sure as to I guess the scope as at which that that's occurring thank you is D ARG you members I would note we have one more agenda in this hearing and we have a caucus at 10:30 thank you so so Dyan what have you folks done you know you folks have been asking for funds for biocurity when you guys have perfectly good leases that have been controlling your invasive species from albesia to all these other um fire ants and so forth what's the hold up on the transfer with those leases when these guys have been great stewards of those lands okay thank you for that question Senator um I am not actively uh uh involved in the transfer of lands I'd be happy to have somebody from our department Pi it back to you I'm not sure I've seen where it intersects exactly with invasive species but you bring up a great point and um we'll we'll get in touch with you and give you an answer to that question because I would I would hope that basically the obesia trees fire ANS and everything else that they have um helped prevent it as well as Wildfire uh risk mitigation has been huge you know in a time when we're struggling for Budget here so if you can get back to us I think that would be super appreciative thank you chair uh Department please Senator what this is this um in the commit report it's asking and I know we're swapping out or it's we're looking at s sp100 to swap into this but both ask for 12.7 million for 44 full-time positions the last time is this is this an extension of the last time we did this or is this 44 my understanding is that these are the positions that were um uh provided by the legislature through act 231 it's the same 44 positions um we had a problem with that we weren't able to hire right because people couldn't qualify they didn't have the specific degree needed to to get those positions as of them tell about that so um so for the um I guess the the specific as it relates to um or I guess the the the technical um minimum qualifications as it relates to the the positions at least for the plant quarantine inspector positions we don't necessarily really have that challenge um most of the positions are for line inspectors um the challenge is that the funding doesn't so the positions the funding for the positions doesn't pass um September or June 30th so um getting people in a position where the funding doesn't pass that is a little bit of a challenge um our line inspector positions um Statewide with the exception of um Maui and Kona which we've had um u a hard time um over the years getting in line inspectors just the cost of living is pretty difficult um but the rest of the position were like for example on aahu um I have only a single position that's vacant that position is because the person retired um December but the most of the other position I'm I'm able to get new recruits pretty quickly I we're not happy inspectors of of the 44 positions how many were filled the last time it was over 40 uh the 44 I think I can't it's a handful perhaps you could uh take that back and provide the Committees with an updated report on the status of the 44 yeah we we can provide that for you I'm sorry about that well that it's a good question thank for meeting so we cans we're yeah we're gonna vote right we're voting okay all right let's just take a brief recess for uh decision making okay reconvening the uh chairs have heardred and we've come up with the following recommendations uh number one we're going to replace all the contents in HP 427 HD2 and insert s sp100 sd2 into HP 427 number two we're going to insert the following blank general fund Appropriations uh blank appropriation for construction at the halava animal quarantine station a blank appropriation for construction at the halava animal industry facility and number three we're going to adopt the language that's proposed by the coordinating group on alien pest species or SE gaps to the house committee on agriculture and Food Systems during their hearing of sp100 and2 those are the uh recommendations any discussion discussion yes chair I I would like to make note of the testimony from H invasive species Council on the on moving it back to the Department of a as well as incorporating in your committee report that in order to help us um prevent invasion species or address the situation that dlnr focused on transferring those lands right away so that the department of egg can continue to work on long-term leases for these ranchers that have been doing a good job on stewardship environmental issues and the prevention and attack of invasive species as so thank you thank you chair quick discussion sure um I think we've seen a evolution of the concerns for biocurity coming forth and this is elevating the concern I would ask maybe included in the report that though this is a step we may need to elevate biocurity to a higher level and I'm talking like even a a cabinet position so just as a include the report that in the committee report all right all right so uh for a chair's recommendation is to pass with amendments chair votes I Senor thank you um on passing with amendments chair votes I Vice chair votes I Senator decoy I Senator rhods is excused and Senator a charity of four in favor motion is adopted thank you members committee on Transportation culture and arts same recommendation if there's no discussion chair for the vote thank you chair the committee on transportation and culture and the Arts chair's recommendation to pass HB 427 house draft two with amendments Senator Lee chair Lee Vice chair goes I Senator alanti Senator kuha Senator Dort hi okay measures adopted Mr chair thank you uh CPN members same recommendation on the measure any discussion seeing none Vice chair passing with amendments chair votes I thank you of the CPN members present any voting with reservations or objections hearing none measure is adopted thank you thank you and that concludes the 945 good morning welcome to the Joint Committee of on education and commerce and consumer protection we have a hearing one one bill House Bill 624 HD1 relating to school psychologist testimony list sorry to testify superintendent chair kidani Vice chair Kim chair Koh Vice chair fukunaka and members of this committee Rox senro Carol testifying on behalf of the Department of Education the department stands on its written testimony in support of this measure thank you for the opportunity to testify thank you Christopher Fernandez morning Sher kidani morning Sher and members of the Committees uh my name is Christopher Fernandez I'm here to stand on the board of psychology testimony supporting and offering comments thank you thank you Christopher lesie Berard on Zoom Le there yeah I'm here apologies it's not letting me start my video um I'm trying to there we go aloa uh chairs and Senators uh thank you for the opportunity to testify my name is lesie bonck I am the current legislative chair for the Hawaii Association of school psychologist um School psychology has only existed in Hawaii since 1999 despite being a field since 1897 about 100 years late to the party we Remain the last state in the Union to not have credentialing for school School psychologists we also are the only mental health providers in the state to not have a credential and this poses a serious consumer protection risk to the Ki of Hawaii uh marriage and family therapists licensed Mental Health Counselors social workers clinical psychologists Etc all have a pathway to credentialing while School psychologists do not this work group is the first step in the right direction towards getting the consumer protection that our Kei and our schools uh need and I'm available for any questions as I wrote the first draft of the Bill uh in 2014 thank you so much thank you lesie next to testify Alec marentic good morning thank you for this opportunity to testify my name is Alec Mork I'm a school psychologist on the big island uh I stand on my written testimony and I just would like to underscore two key pieces of information one that credential School psychologists are um explicitly named as eligible for uh reimbursement under school-based Medicaid claiming which can provide extra funding support towards mental health initiatives for the doe second uh I noticed some testimonies stated that Texas is the only state that credential School psychologists under their Boards of psychology um and I just want to highlight that um Louisiana New Hampshire Virginia Ohio and West Virginia also regulates specialist level School psychologists under their Boards of psychology thank you is there anyone else here wishing to testify on this measure if not numbers questions resis reconvening The Joint Committee on education and and commerce and consumer protection uh on House Bill 624 the recommendation of the chair will be to pass with amendments defecting the date to July 1 2050 members discussions if not for the vote chair vots I for House Bill 624 house draft one recommendation is to pass with amendments chair votes I Vice chair votes Senator hasimoto excuse Senator kuha I Senator Dort four members voting i1 excuse recommendations adopted CPN member same recommendation any discussion Senator Meli U no thank you for moving the bill I just hope in the future that the Hawaii Psychological associ Association can be added as a member of the working group because of the experience and the licenser issues that have been risen so but thank you chair I'll be V so Vice chair for the vote chair votes I thank you uh the CPN memb is present are there any voting with reservations or objections hearing none measure is adopted that concludes this hearing thank you

Patrick's Day. The upcoming concert dates are as follows. On May 1st, we have the AHS vocal music solo night at 7:00 p.m. On May 15th, we have the AHS choir at 7:00 p.m. On May 22nd, the AHS concert bands blue and white at 7:00 p.m. On June 4th, the Mendes AMS 6th grade band and jazz ensemble. And on June 10th, we have the AMS 7th and eighth grade concert bands. Don't miss these inspiring performances by our talented student musicians. And visit www.brtab B R E T A B I G A G- A.com to learn more about Brett Abagana's work. Hope to see you there. Some upcoming Ashlin events and community highlights. Win four Red Sox tickets. The Friends of Ashlin Public Li library are auctioning four tickets to the Red Sox versus Blue Jays game on April 7th at 6:45 p.m. The online auction runs from March 23rd to 30th with all proceeds supporting the library.

Keep an eye out for the auction link when it goes live. The magic show fundraiser for the AHS class of 2027. Join us for a family-friendly magic show at Maroneies, the Ashlin BFW on March 21st at 5:00 p.m. tickets are $10 per person and pizza will be available. Sign up online. Ashlin Flavors, Indian Cuisine, and Cultural Connections. On April 3rd at 6 p.m., Ashland is United invites you to Spice Kitchen on 59 Pawn Street for a conversation and dinner about Indian food practices. Registration is $25 per person and must be completed by March 20th. Registration is once available online. The Boy Scout Troop 232 pancake breakfast and food drive. Enjoy a pancake breakfast while supporting the Ashlin food pantry on Sunday, April 6th, 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the Ashlin BFW. Businesses can donate auction items or sponsor placemats for $25. Also coming up, we have some Ashlin Town Forest Committee guided walks.

Explore the newly acquired lands with a guided moderate difficulty walk. Walks start at 9:00 am on March 28th through 30th, April 4th through 6th, April 18th through 20th, and May 2nd through 4th. Meet at the Eversource Power Lines Gates on Winter Street and RSVP at Town Forest at ashlandmass.com. Also coming up, some exciting events at the Ashlin Public Library. For adult events, we have the Cookbook Club, The New Midwestern Table, 200 Heartland Recipes, March 18th at 5:00 p.m. Great Decisions, American Foreign Policy at a Crossroads, March 20th at 6:30 p.m. For children's events, we have the Kindergarten Book Club on March 18th at 400 p.m. and Laa Delquento Spanish Story Time March 19th at 6:30 p.m. Also, PJ Prom on March 22nd at 11:30 a.m. Join in for some fun, learning, and community at the Ashlin Public Library. Thank you so much to our town manager, Michael Herbert, and the town staff for putting together this newsletter as always.

And thanks to you all for tuning in. This is Hi Silver with WACA, wishing you a good night and go Clockers.

good afternoon welcome to the senate committee on education today is Wednesday March 19 2025 this is our 3:00 p.m agenda and we are in hearing room 229 this meeting including the audio and video of remote participants is being streamed live on YouTube YouTube you will find links to viewing options for all Senate meetings on the live and On Demand video page of the legislator's website this Zoom meeting and your and YouTube live stream event will include this 3:00 p.m agenda for the committee on education in the unlikely event that we must abruptly end this hearing due to technical difficulties the committee will reconvene to discuss any outstanding business on Friday March 21st in room 229 and a public not noce will be posted on the legislature's website I'd like to take this time to remind our testifiers that due to time restrictions on our me on our hearings we will be limiting testimony to one minute per testifier per bill for people participating remotely please remain muted and video disabled until shortly before it is your turn to testify when I call your name unmute yourself and your time will begin after your minute is completed staff will mute you so that we can move this tearing along in a orderly and efficient manner and on our agenda today is House Bill 329 HD2 relating to the school facilities Authority this clarifies that the school facilities Authority is responsible for projects and facilities for pre kindergarten preschool child care and early learning programs Workforce housing and any public school development planning and construction assigned by the legislature Governor or Board of Education this allows the school facilities authority to use the Department of Education for certain Recruitment and hiring responsibilities allows the school facilities authority to partner with public and private development agencies to develop pre kindergarten facilities first to testify on this matter is superintendent Kashi or doe Al Cher kidani Vice chair Marcato Kim members of the committee Shan bacon assistant superintendent for the Department of Education testifying on behalf of the department uh Department stands on its written testimony which provides comments on this measure and we thank you for the opportunity John can you just explain what comments on so uh a couple things on it for the is is where one of the things that it talks about on the school facilities Authority is in the in the in the legislation it it mentions school facilities Authority could use either de herd or the Department of Education for the recruitment one of the things is the department is concerned about having two different agencies uh responsible for the recruitment uh and we would be recommending that it be one or the other currently R now de her is doing the recruiting um and uh the department would prefer that it remain at that point I think a lot of the positions that are being recruited for schools fac school facilities Authority um may be better recruited for through de herd than the Department of Education thank you for that clarification thank you memb questions how many employees does um SFA have uh currently right now according to our records um that I just pulled before we came uh there's 11 um positions that currently we have in our system for school facilities Authority approv for 12 what was that you're approved for 12 or you approv for 11 I'd have to check on on what school facilities Authority is appr Right 11 fil eight is filled eight is filled yeah there's according to my records there's three vacancies that are in our system right now so four vacancies got to touch bases with him so you know the numbers okay okay thank you thank you thank you any further questions we have Bri fujitani SFA thank you chair and vice chair and committee members Ricky fujitani we have submitted uh testimony rep the intent and seek to get clarification on clear roles and responsibilities and open for any questions if you have any thank you I don't have your testimony yeah I do you can I have a question I have question um when you say clear responsibilities can you explain what's not clear right now well the uh what was not clear is the confusion on recruitment it so that's the same thing we talk in the current law it says um May it says we're administratively assigned to the Department of Education so our pero and everything else normally is through there but it says it may use the department of human resources and that's why there's confusion right now um we were able to fill eight exempt positions through the office of talents management but the four more difficult ones are the Civil Service ones and that's what we're working with de her now so the positions you've have now was didn't get recruited through de her it got through the doe right through through through the Doe's Department called office of talent management the eight right okay so they're not been helpful in getting this last four positions um they feel because the civil service is more complicated that we've been directed to use de herd so you want to be able to just use de her in the future or still do a combination of both yeah I mean whatever is quickest I mean we've been in existence for Noto over two years and we haven't been able to recruit or any of our civil service positions yet so maybe the position should all be non- civil servant then we would fill it faster unfortunately in our enabling legislation there is 12 four of it civil service eight exemp is there a reason why only why the four was civil service I do not y does anybody know what's a rationale the problem obviously okay thank you okay anyone else here wishing to testify this measure good afternoon chair kidani Vice chair Kim Senator kuha and huchi from the Department of the Attorney General um I apologize if you don't have our testimony I'll make sure that it gets submitted to the committee um in our testimony we provided some comments um first with regard to pre kindergarten and preschool facilities um child care and early learning programs are not on public school campuses and the doe doesn't have jurisdiction or administrative authority over those programs so in our testimony we've um suggested uh clarifying amendment to address that issue also from the bill it's unclear if sfa's responsibility for all public school projects related to new or renovated facilities for pre kindergarten and preschool programs includes the responsibility for the repair and maintenance of those programs on doe or charter school campuses um if the intent is to make SFA um responsible for repair and maintenance we provided some clarifying amendments if the intent is to not have SFA be responsible for repair and maintenance and we've suggested amendments to address that as well um and finally with regard to Workforce housing um we are suggesting a clarifying amendment to indicate that the workforce housing is for educators and education workers in public schools um also it's again it's not clear if uh whether or not such housing must be on public school property to qualify as public school projects so um we suggest that SFA if SFA um excuse me if the intent is to allow SFA to build Workforce housing outside of public school grounds if that be um explicitly set forth in the Bill thank you I'll be available for questions thank you members questions thank you anyone else here wishing please come forward Aloha chair kidani Vice chair Mado Kim and Senator kuha my name is Jordana f with the City and County of Honolulu um I'm here on behalf of director KY with the Department of Community Services I apologize that testimony is late I did hand out some hard copies and have some extra ones if that's helpful um but we support the intent of this bill and we recognize some of the concerns that were brought up from the other departments we defer to them on the implementation but offer a small amendment that we think will help alleviate some of the concerns um and allow us to continue our partnership with the state to expand Early Learning opportunities on some city property I'm happy to answer any questions thank you I haven't had a chance to read this information so members questions is that all the people testifying or just oh sorry um no I believe so thank you is there anyone else here wishing to testify on this measure can we get SFA back up uh so Ricky um you heard what the Attorney General said so is it the intent for you folks to do the repair and maintenance of the preschools and kindergarten childhood or whatever well if it if that's the decision you'd have to build an entire maintenance organization in the SFA also because right now on school property right you have on the neighbor Islands repair and maintenance is done by dags CIP is done by uh by by the doe on aahu they have an entire division of over 200 50 employees doing repair maintenance it really doesn't make sense to duplicate a third agency right so I guess that's what I'm trying to I don't know whose bill this is yeah but the but the it's it's unclear right now right yeah so it's not this isn't your folks's bill uh no it's it's a it's a house house okay but you didn't int you didn't encourage them to introduce the spill yeah so okay so I agree that we shouldn't be duplicating that and you don't have the manpower to do it um and what about the issue on building outside of public lands Workforce Development yeah Public public lands I think that's clear that's clear because it's it's Bond funded money so we it would be like a grant in Aid which is uh that's the legality have very complex but for the sing County county of Hawaii County of Maui we clearly need to work with those organizations for preschool prek opportunity using County Land so we want it broad where we can work with County agencies to provide pre opportunities okay so you do think that that should be part of your responsibility to be able to not only put Workforce Development housing on public lands but also on other lands yes thank you members further questions thank you recess reconvening the committee on education we so the committee is recommending for House Bill 329 HD2 to pass with amendments and the Amendments would be um that SFA not be responsible for any doe facilities maintenance and repair that yeah that includes maintenance and repairs that SFA can build Workforce Development on school facilities and other property um they are to retain Staffing recruitment for positions within SFA with de herd we will insert an appropriation amount of $100 million out of the general fund for fiscal year 26 for a new Middle School in Central Maui to be expended by SFA insert an appropriation amount of $30 million out of the general fund for fiscal year 26 for a new Elementary School in Lina to be expended by SFA and inserting an an appropriation amount of $50 million out of the general fund for his fiscal year 26 for Teacher housing in Milani to be expended by SFA members questions okay so House Bill 329 house draft two two recommendation is to pass with amendments chair kidani hi Vice chair vot I Senator Hashimoto hi Senator kuha hi senator of the Court hi five eyes your recommendations adopted M chair thank you that concludes your business

e e e he he heyy he good evening got real quiet real quick so you guys are ready to roll my name is Brian ree I'm the principal here at Columbia high school and it's my pleasure to welcome you to 12th annual Soaring Eagle night this award was created to allow the faculty members to choose a student that in their eyes embodies some special trait and and they give some contribution to that teacher's class each recip recipient may have been chosen on the basis of character leadership dedication hard work overcoming diversity adversity and or committed to learning There's real no real pre prerequisite here it's who the teacher thought stood out in their eyes and the relationship they've built what I love is that none of you sitting over here should know who selected you tonight each teacher will read their their uh speech about their student some will say the name at the beginning so that they come up and stand with them right away some will say it at the end because they want to try to see if they could figure it out so and when you come up please stand next to to the teacher and at the end they'll give you a medallion and then you guys will go to the cafeteria for a quick picture and then you'll come back in each family will receive a copy of the speech and a copy of the picture in in in a couple weeks a week or so students you ready to find out who select you tonight well let's begin our first person Miss Packard [Applause] good evening it is an honor to stand before you today to recognize an extraordinary student who has truly made a difference in our school Community as a teacher and the student council adviser I have had the privilege of working closely with this student and I can say without a doubt that they are deserving of the Soaring Eagle Award from the very first student council meeting this summer Addison Butler stood out as a leader as the executive board president of the student council she took initiative not only in supporting the needs of the council but in helping to shape its direction and vision for the year in many ways Addison was the glue that held the student council together helping us stay organized motivated and always moving forward toward our many goals but what truly sets Addison apart is her dedication to serving others whether it was organizing school events volunteering time to ensure activities ran smoothly or simply offering support to fellow students she demonstrated what it truly means to be a leader Addison didn't just fulfill the role of student leader she embodied it leading by example showing kindness and creating an atmosphere of collaboration throughout the year Addison has shared innovative ideas to improve student council's work and move the program forward she brought fresh perspectives new Solutions and a strong desire to ensure that our school was a place where every student could feel heard valued and engaged as a teacher and adviser it can be challenging to keep everything running smoothly but with Addison by my side I felt confident that everything would fall into place the success of this year's student council can be credited in no small part to her leadership work ethic and commitment Addison thank you for making this year such a memorable one your contributions both seen and unseen have not gone unnoticed and you have certainly earned this honor I have no doubt that you will continue to soar making a positive impact wherever you go [Applause] when excuse me when I think of my soring Eagle one word comes to mind consistent my Sor Eagle is consistent always there always ready always in a good mood at least on the outside schoolwork always gets done never complains behavior is always exemplary I've had the pleasure of having my Soaring Eagle in my German classes here at Columbia High School for four years this person has been a member of our German exchange program having traveled to Germany twice which means he was selected twice on the basis of academic performance Behavior character each time this person exhibited Stellar Behavior maturity and a curiosity to learn more about the world outside of their own regular surroundings I believe this has had a profound impact on this student making them a more well-rounded individual ready to take on whatever the world has to offer them I know my soring eagle has what it takes to succeed the drive the discipline the focus my S and Eagle will do well in life and I can't wait to hear in 20 in 10 or 20 years what they have achieved they are ready to quite literally fly high I believe they want to be a pilot or might be a pilot actually already congratulations to my deserving soran Eagle Carson cow [Applause] flesh hello my name is Carrie Stein and I teach in the math department here at CHS I've had the privilege of having my Soaring Eagle Eli Kirk in my algebra 1 class this year although I've only known him for a short time I've been so impressed by his work ethic dependability and kindness he participates in class discussions does his homework asks questions and pays attention to instruction even when I ask a question to the class that no one else seems to want to answer I can always count on Eli to step up even if he's not 100% confident in his answer he will share his thoughts allowing us to have a discussion about how to get the correct answer his active participation shows his genuine eagerness to learn and grow he maintains a positive attitude even when he does not understand something right away he never makes excuses or tries to take shortcuts he takes the initiative to make sure he's prepared for tests and quizzes and understands the content Beyond Eli's dedication to learning his kindness sets him apart he is always respectful to his classmates and is a positive role model who leads by example he often greets me with a thoughtful hello how are you as he enters the room and have a nice day as he leaves these little but important things are so appreciated Eli I'm very thankful for the opportunity to get to know you this year keep working hard in being you I'm so excited to see what you accomplish in the years to come congratulations [Applause] hello my name is Mary Adams and I teach English here at Columbia High School I want to engage you all if you'll bear with me I know we all loved forced participation my students certainly do um but I promise this is easy so for each of these words I would like for you to visualize a person or people in your life ready Radiance positivity gratitude humility wit sunshine did anyone you know fit the bill for all of those things I have one of those and actually it's one of my home room students home room is sometimes a polarizing topic here at CHS with some students failing to utilize the time to meet with teachers for extra help or they don't want to participate in the team building activities some students dislike home room but then again some students dislike school some students dislike almost everything they are required to do whether or where or when I am lucky though to have the best Home Room in the school without question including several leaders in my room one of those leaders who is a standout is cabore Bergman come on up here cabore [Applause] freshman year I wasn't sure what to think of kabore she smiled and said hi to me every day but she also talked while I was talking sometimes and she sometimes seemed to care more about being social than doing her school work what I learned from kabore though is that what matters most is the impact that we have by doing our part in a group regardless of intent cabore willingly volunteers to participate in every Home Room activity whether that means answering a million triv questions incorrectly or hastily coloring door decorating drawings and mastering Piñata making skills while we usually don't score very well on any of these activities we do win nearly every physical challenge and I'm pretty sure that kabor has participated in each and everyone through all of this she is kind to everyone in our home room whether she is friends with all the other students or not she is a spiritual person who definitely walks the walk serving as a role model in kindness for many around her I am so lucky that cabora is in my home room but I'm even more lucky to have had her touch my life she is sunshine congratulations on earning Soaring Eagle cabore and I can't wait to see how you'll continue to soar in all of your future endeavors [Applause] hello I'm Sarah mcyy I'm the choir director and I've had the pleasure of having my saring Eagle in my class at both CMS as a sixth grader and then again here at CHS as a sixth grader he was a kind of a quiet kid he kind of flew under the radar um but he had the most infectious smile I've ever seen and extremely polite manners like he is the most polite person I've ever met um he is definitely a kid and a Soaring Eagle that no one could forget Noah Kish always plays the role of encourager in everything he does he lends an ear to others or he offers a shoulder to cry on but his biggest um go-to is humor he uses humor for everything um and even if it is the most incredibly ridiculous silly joke you will laugh just because he says it with his big bright smile um my eighth hour class does not feel complete unless we hear our daily joke from Noah and like I said they're occasionally terrible but if he doesn't say it usually if I don't notice another kid will say wait what's the joke of the day I think the biggest thing that stands out for me about Noah besides his concern and thoughtfulness for other students and his love for life is his willingness to improve upon himself as a singer going through a voice change especially as a boy is often difficult it's a difficult situation to navigate um and sometimes it's intimidating and you don't want to sing out because what if someone makes a comment but Noah never hesitates to ask questions about the notes he's singing or to see if he's doing it correctly often kids like I said don't want to draw attention to themselves but I feel like Noah has done an incredible job normalizing the fact that everybody goes through voice change no matter who you are he often asked questions um on how to overcome those of disabilities um in that time frame and those kids that are around him have learned from that because they were scared to ask the same question no also make sure to ask class in class to fill any gaps of musical understanding if he doesn't understand it he will ask for sure um again this is something that sometimes kids are afraid to ask because they don't want to look like they don't know the answer but I tell them that's your point you're supposed to be here to learn so he will ask for every body he takes an active interest in his learning he Embraces all subjects even when they're difficult I know Noah Kish will continue to be a kind friend a willing listener and allaround funny guy I'm so happy to say that Noah Kish is my Soaring Eagle it is an honor and a pleasure to know him [Applause] hello my name is Kylie wolf I teach English here at the high school as a second-year teacher who is only 24 years old you may be surprised to hear that I occasionally have challenges when it comes to controlling classes of over 20 teenagers I know it's shocking however when I have a rough day at school and I wonder if I have chosen the right profession I look to the students who are always kind patient and paying attention this year the student whom I have chosen as my Soaring Eagle exhibits all of these qualities along with quite a bit of humor which keeps my spirits high this year for my Soaring Eagle I had the privilege of selecting Eden Peters you knew at the beginning of the school year my junior classes begin the semester by writing the research paper while not impossible it is not necessarily the most enjoyable unit of the semester as I had mentioned earlier Eden is very patient and always pays attention just the same she works very hard in class well on a day that Eden was determined to write the research paper it seemed that her Chromebook became an obstacle it it appeared that while working on the essay at home her Wi-Fi went out here I have a direct quote from an email that Eden sent me during the time that her Chromebook was not complying and I quote hello Miss wolf I am just writing to let you know that I am losing my mind sincerely Eden at this point I was a bit worried that Eden had not only begun to lose her impeccable patience but also as she stated her mind on a different note as I've mentioned before Eden is genuinely kind to everyone she knows in her class there are 23 students including her there are days that I feel very overwhelmed and outnumbered a few weeks ago I passed out a homework assignment immediately I saw many hands go up I was doing my best to help everyone with their work but I worried that class would end before I was able to help each student suddenly I realized that I did not have to rush around the class anymore I thought that maybe the students had just figured out what to do on the homework after getting a chance to really read it over when I looked around I noticed that Eden had stood up and was walking around the room with me to help answer questions I did not ask her to do this as I knew she had her own work to do not only did I not ask her to help me but I also made a mental note that she didn't even announce that she was going to help not only me but also her classmates this is the type of person that Eden is she does not need to be recognized when she's being helpful she does not need others to know when she is being generous and stepping up to the plate she is a good kind person whether anyone notices or acknowledges what she's doing she does things just because she should and not because there's any sort of reward involved Eden thank you for being who you are thank you for being the person whom I look to on the rough days you are someone that I can always count on I am so proud to be your teacher and to know you the world is a better place because of you I had to you this being my first year at Columbia High School I have met so so many new faces and continue to meet new faces every day however the first day I met the student she made an impression on me that continued to stick out above others when asking to choose a Soaring Eagle I was searching for different standards to figure out how to choose just one student any criteria I came up with kept leading me back to this particular student as she possesses Integrity responsibility and just overall good character this student is already a quiet person so on top of that being a Freshman in a class full of sophomores didn't give her much of an opportunity to say much if anything however her confidence carried her through the class and she definitely stood out to me it can be challenging as a high school student to have confidence in yourself and what you believe in this saring Eagle seems to be proud of what she stands for what she believes in and her desire to succeed shows in her everyday walk even though she has just begun her journey through high school she has already made an impression and I know she will continue to lead and grow the next three years she is very dedicated intelligent and a polite student that I see having a very successful future ahead of her her not only her friendly nature and her her contagious smile her ambition shines through in her life journey I appreciated her personality and her acceptance of me as a new member of the Columbia school district for my saring Eagle I picked emiline hting [Applause] hi I'm Missy Steve I'm part of the math department here um ignore my froggy voice I don't normally sound this bad so I'll be all right I'll make it um I'm proud to present my sworn Eagle Award this year to Corbin Surman come on up Corbin did you gu me Corbin is an exceptional student who brings intelligence energy and humor to everything he does academically Corbin is a standout particularly in math where his natural abilities and hard work set him apart he approaches challenges with determination and a willingness to learn never shine away from hard work Corbin comes in every day ready to learn one thing I appreciate appreciate about Corbin is that he takes his grade seriously and puts in the effort to succeed yet he never takes himself to too seriously this rare and valuable combination of being able to balance productivity with a light-hearted attitude makes him a joy to be around in my opinion what truly sets Corbin apart is his vibrant personality it is truly special he is animated full of life and has a great sense of humor that brings positivity to those around him especially me I love watching his Expressions as I'm teaching I can definitely tell if he's understanding the lesson just based on his face there's a lot of or ah it's it's great his enthusiasm is contagious his ability to connect with peers and teachers alike makes him a valued member of any classroom ending my days with Corbin has been a blessing I'm happy to make your dream of getting a sorine Eagle Award come true but you honestly deserve it thanks for always putting a smile on my face and I appreciate you thanks hi I am Joan vernam in the matth department um it is my pleasure to introduce a bright light in two of my classes statistics and calculus I am new to this district and before I had even heard of The Soaring Eagle Award I knew uh the student would be remarkable Brody Curtis uh within the first week of school Brody asked me if I would consider being the math team sponsor so that he and others could continue with Afterschool math competitions at swick I could not let him down and I enjoyed every minute this past fall Brody placed first a huge accomplishment among all seniors in our division within the first week of school Brody and his F friend Joshua druy who is also here tonight uh were independently working on calculus 2 material while I was teaching calculus one to the class and to this day they continue to work levels ahead of us during their free time it is not just academics but the energy Brody pours into what he does he takes on challenging problems with a smile confidence and most definitely some light-hearted friendly banter with his buddies a little competition there never in my career have I seen anyone attack a math problem with such fervor and delight and I worked for those adjectives um he runs track track and cross country he excels in scholar bow academic challenge just found out today you were first in computer engineering as well Ma and and math um and he's in band right um he helps others and he has helped me this year more than he knows by being kind by being a great example for all of us of enthusiasm and discipline and by discussing calculus with me which I've needed this year I am so proud that he was accepted and has committed to the University of Illinois right uh where his passion for life and for knowledge will undoubtedly serve him as he studies data science is that right still computer science and I believe you were um he applied to Harvard just as sport got you you made the first cut at least right no I find out in a week he finds out in a week if he made it to Harvard but I heard him speaking speaking to everyone and said H if I make it in I think I still want to go to U VI so kind of just for fun um I look so forward to hearing about your future accomplishments Brody stay awesome [Applause] good evening my name is Amanda Stanfield and I teach family consumer science I am proud to recognize my 2025 Soaring Eagle ban [Music] dazzo Bella is one of the most positive and hardworking people that I know she constantly strives to do her best she volunteers to help out in my classroom and often encourages others to do the same her helpful and friendly demeanor does not go unnoticed her positive attitude also makes her a great student she accept accepts constructive criticism and actually takes time to improve Bella is eager to learn new things and participate in classroom activities she takes time to practice her new skills at home and actively Works to make herself more well-rounded she has such a bright future keep up the great work Bella [Applause] hello I'm Laura Schmidt and I teach chemistry at CHS and I would like to call forth my eagle Soaring Eagle recipient Megan bowler [Applause] [Music] Megan so Megan obviously you're my CHS Soaring Eagle recipient but I want to bestow upon you another title I think of you as a apem Steely eyed missile man or missile woman as the case may be and if by chance you're a little bit behind on your geeky Nassau lore urban legend has it that this phrase is the highest compliment that can be awarded to a NASA engineer the phrase was first used to describe John Aaron who devised the recovery for the Power Systems on board Apollo 12 after the rocket was struck by lightning during launch his quick thinking and extreme calm Under Pressure saved the mission from aborting and earned him the nickname and although though I've not personally spent a lot of time in NASA's mission control room you Megan I believe are definitely a Steely eyed missile woman every day in class you arrive determined focused and ready to wrestle AP Chemistry problems down to the ground you are convinced that the answer is out there and if you dig deep enough into the logic you're going to find exactly what you're looking for and what's better is that you do this with a smile whether we calculating acid ionization constants pH of weak and strong base titrations or examining partical diagrams at the half equivalence point you're not only locking in but you're crushing it and what is particularly gratifying is that you seem to enjoy this challenge the satisfaction that you gain from solving complicated problems is really kind of the goal of Education the goal of science and the goal of life you work these problems with such intense attention to detail but you're also very capable of stepping back to see the big science picture you understand that it's always always always about the atoms that are just too small for us to see it's about their energy and how we can apply this knowledge to our benefit Megan you are absolutely knocking off my socks and blowing me away with your enthusiasm your drive and your determination I don't have a calculation to quantify that for you but please know that I appreciate it nonetheless it's an absolute pleasure to have a student who enjoys the challenge of apem as much as you do you're amazing and I wish you the absolute best of luck in all that you do [Applause] good evening uh my name is Neil O'Donnell I teach in the social studies Department like all the recipients tonight my Soaring Eagle is very deserving of this award I've known the student for a while but it wasn't until last year that I really got to know him what I love about him is he knows who he is he doesn't try to be any anyone else but himself he's loyal he's a hard worker he can be quiet and unassuming but I know that he's driven he simply goes about his business I witness him pick up the slack for others uh and help when it's not necessarily his job he gets it done and doesn't ask for anything in return hard work matters for Success the student would probably admit that that school isn't always his thing uh but I was impressed with with his work ethic and participation in class I had him for two classes last year uh and W economics uh can be a difficult subject to tackle he asked questions when he didn't understand something and I truly feel that he did his best job I appreciate that I appreciate you Mason vagle [Applause] uh I really enjoy working with Mason and I can't wait to see what uh he and his teammates do on the baseball field in the coming months of our season I wish him nothing but the best in his future endeavors I'm so happy and proud to present my Soaring Eagle to Mason vagley [Music] uh good evening everyone my name is Kirk Myers and I teach Junior and Senior English here at the high school tonight I would like to recognize a current student of mine who is a true leader at the school nearly everyone in the Columbia Community who who's known him who's taught him who's coached him who's prayed with him cannot help but be grateful for him my choice for Soaring Eagle is Hayes van bruis again come up here [Applause] Hayes what sets this young man apart is his curiosity of the human Spirit his success in my classroom starts there his moral principles his Faith his passion to share and discuss ideas with classmates his eagerness to ask questions and actively learn and challenge his own assumptions and values all stem from his quest to explore the human Spirit no matter what the unit no matter what the assigned literary text or film Hayes has consistently demonstrated interpersonal skills that helped establish a positive and welcoming environment for all of his classmates in turn it has been remarkable watching Hayes grow as a reader writer thinker and push others to do the same lastly here I'd like to acknowledge Hayes for doing his part to establish a certain camaraderie within the culture at this school haz's leadership roles in club activities I'm thinking of FCA best buddies they promote empathy and compassion and as captain of the boys varsity soccer team and point guard of the boys varsity basketball team Hayes has displayed the definition of selfless competitive greatness that has been exciting to see I could watch Hayes Ali upit to Sam Donald all day long thank you [Applause] Hayes good evening everyone my name is Brent Miller and I teach PE and jar Zed behind the wheel here at CHS the student I have chosen to be a sworn Eagle is a student I have known since our days together at Eagle viw unfortunately I've have not been able to have this student in class while at the high school since he takes weights and was an except exceptional driver by the time I arrived we do get to hang out daily after class and talk about sports how the weekend was and a lot of random other things the student is an honest man and does not hesitate to say what he thinks about something especially how his golf match went or if their next basketball opponent was good or not then there are times he said say Miller I can't talk today because I have a test to study for next hour I am proud to recognize Charlie Steckler as my Sor and Eagle Award winner Charlie has been a great student who works hard in the classroom on the golf course and basketball court if he's not participating in these two sports you can find Charlie in stands with the blue crew and his fellow classmates and friends on the on the field Charlie bleeds Blue by traveling to away away events to make sure the blue crew is well represented loud and against the student body Charlie is kind respectful and an honest person he shows his kindness by always willing to help others and doesn't say no I will have great memories of him helping out during basketball camps and Junior Eagles he never enjoyed leading group defensive slides but had a great time helping the younger players and telling them what to do sorry uh I I've had the honor to hang out with Charlie at the beginning in in of his education here at Columbia I am proud of this student and the person he has become and is very deserving of this award I wish him the best of luck on his next adventure at misso and majoring in finance congratulations to my Soro Charlie [Applause] ster hello uh Mark sandstrom driver at government and I coach basketball uh my saring eagle and we're just going to get it right out of the way come on up riff uh River reminds me a lot of myself growing up as a kid river is a gymrat he's constantly trying to get better and he's wearing out our shooting gun okay absolutely I'd be willing to say that he's probably put a couple rocks in the door to get in too uh just don't tell Mr Reeves that uh River loves watching studying and strategizing the game of basketball he just loves the game of basketball I think River would agree with the following quote from Michael Jordan the game of basketball has been everything to me my place of Refuge the place I've always gone where I needed comfort and peace it's been the sight of intense pain and the most intense feelings of joy in satisfaction agree with that yeah when you're a basketball Junkie and as competitive as River and I are you will understand that great quote anyway I want to applaud River's dedication to the game and how well he fit in with our Squad this year he was a great teammate and wore the Columbia jersey with pride I can already Envision him walking the sidelines when his playing days are over he's going to be a great coach in the very near future in the past year and a half here at BHS he has been a great Soaring [Applause] Eagle good evening everyone and thank you for coming to celebrate these awesome kids my soring Engle nomination is someone I've not only had the pleasure of teaching in the classroom but also got to teach on the basketball court this student is someone who definitely is a handful at times he can be one of the sweetest kids that you've ever talked to but then he can get on your very last nerve but I think that's one of his most Charming qualities you never know what you're going to get or you never know what you're going to get when he steps into the room or onto the court but you can always count on him to brighten your mood with jokes doing something silly or really just being himself this student also really sets himself apart from almost everyone else with his work ethic and ability to learn very quickly he's been such a joy to have this year and even last year during the eighth grade baseball season and I know he'll grow into a very high achieving young man over these next three years of high school I'm proud to announce my saring Eagle nomination is hoe Nelson [Applause] good evening my name is Ashley ramsy and I have the privilege of teaching Spanish here I enjoy this ceremony each year because it gives us the opportunity to to recognize student for students for so many different qualities not just academics it's really special to celebrate each student here tonight this year my Soaring Eagle might be surprised to receive this award for me from the beginning of the year this student has greeted me nearly each time he has entered and left my room he could be talking with friends and he often still takes the the time to say chiao on his way out the door this small gesture might sound insignificant but it brightens my day I also admire his authenticity he is not afraid to ask questions or admit when he does not understand something he isn't concerned with how others perceive him and that kind of courage and honesty is something I deeply respect I appreciate that he works with dedication and consistently produces great work I enjoy watching him actively listen and thoughtfully process everything that I say in Spanish his calm personality makes him a joy to have in class Nick Meyers keep being the kind-hearted and genuine person that you are I am happy to recognize you as my Soaring Eagle congratulations [Applause] good evening everyone I'm Amanda mcke I teach in the math department this year I am honored to award my Soaring Eagle to a student that I've had the pleasure of teaching over the past two years Reagan Matthews helping hardworking and conscientious are just a few of the many positive traits that come to mind when I think of Reagan it's easy to see how she makes those around her feel welcome and valued whether it's offering a helping hand or simply sharing a kind word what truly sets Reagan apart is her incredible work ethic she approaches every task with dedication and determination always striving for excellence whether it's tackling difficult Concepts or going above and beyond on the softball field she never gives less than her best moreover Reagan is conscientious in everything she does asking questions and seeking help when needed following through on commitments and always looking for ways to improve and grow it's clear that she takes pride in the quality of her work and that sense of Integrity is something we can all admire Reagan your positive attitude hard work and dedication do not go unnoticed I am incredibly proud of everything you've accomplished so far and I'm excited to see all the amazing things you will continue to achieve thank you for your commitment your kindness and for being such an outstanding example of what it means means to be a Soaring [Applause] Eagle good evening uh I'm Michelle Klein I teach in the science department here uh I would like to recognize Mia Smith as my Sur Eagle this [Applause] [Music] [Applause] year Mia made a great impression very early on since the first day of school she enters the classroom daily with a smile and positive attitude it quickly became clear that she possesses qualities of a good student she's hardworking motivated focused and accountable she strives to do her best and never hesitates to ask questions to improve her understanding she is a great student to have but what impresses me most is her character she continually demonstrates inclusivity and kindness she is a great role model for her peers in addition to her contagious positivity she makes a conscious effort to include all those around her it doesn't matter who she is working with in the classroom she treats everyone with kindness and respect outside of the classroom Mia continues to lead by example she takes the initiative to make a difference as a freshman she has already begun making a mark she is is a member of the student council Track Golf and basketball teams and I have no doubt that her attitude and effort are out are outstanding in these environments as well she along with another freshman student this year began a new club for the school that focuses on leadership and inclusion her work ethic kindness and positivity not only make her a great student but a remarkable person Mia is a student who reminds us of the power of character and the impact that one person can have on those around them I have no doubt that Mia will continue to do great things and spread her positivity and kindness for the remainder of her high school years and future congratulations [Applause] [Music] [Applause] Mia good evening authenticity is a character trait s om used to describe a teenager but my choice of soaring eagle exemplifies the meaning of this word he epitomizes genuiness and realness his blend of humor and humility allows him to connect with others and keep things real all while maintaining a light-hearted spirit he never fails to make me laugh or smile with his stories about his experiences at school home or work he's also self-aware and able to recognize his role in the humor of his own stories in addition this young man is naturally curious and is always eager to learn and explore new ideas he asks insightful questions and he critically considers the answers his positive downto Earth attitude makes him a true joy to be around and I am honored to select sophomore Camden stuffen as my Soaring Eagle for the 2425 [Applause] good evening everyone thanks for being here tonight and sharing your awesome students with us this is probably the best night um for me here as a teacher I love this night um my I'm Lindsay mittendorf I'm a special education teacher I also work in the English Department here um and I want to tell you a story about a Soaring Eagle what if something happened to the one thing you relied on something that was stable unwavering a constant in your life how would you carry on people are presented with unimaginable challenges on a daily basis you see stories every day on the news and in social media pleading for love and support all of the things that that people need to feel hope in a bleak situation as humans our hearts ache for those struggling under the weight of these things and we try our hardest to help soften their load you may see these people one day out in your community at the grocery store or filling their cars with gas doing those everyday things and you wonder how do you carry on where do you find your hope well I know a young lady she's under indoor many challenges this year more than her fair share nevertheless she faced each battle with pure determination and tenacious strength she is fierce but that's not why I chose her for the Soaring Eagle Award Sophia Nelson [Applause] my she embodies a true St Eagle because throughout all of the uncertainties the heart breaks the ups and downs the lefts and rights her life decided to take she maintained her hope unwavering hope even when her world was turned upside down again she held on to her hope harder than I've ever seen anyone before in my 49 years I watched her manage every everything a typical teen needs to manage her classes her family friends tests finals all sorts of things and yes we even had to experience a sewing class full of NeverEnding battles with bobbins and bobin thread not catching um as well as watching tutorials on how to make various sauces and not burning a r that's that was a lot of fun uh she made the very best of each and every one of these not nontraditional environments and throughout it all she always maintained hope in fact just because of her hope she didn't just make the best of these situations she thrived in these situations so Sophia I just want to thank you for being you for inspiring me daily never to give up but most importantly to never give up hope a message I needed very very much this year continue living life fearlessly full of Hope and promise of the wonderful things aai from you I love you good evening my name is Dana marman and I'm a business teacher here at CHS my Sor Eagle is here for the amount of Grace that they have like many students here tonight this individual challenges themselves with a rigorous academic schedule but I will say there has not been a day that I've ever seen this student not work Bell to Bell not even in home room they are mature beyond their years exhibit Elegance Poise kindness and a thoughtful demeanor in their actions and more importantly their interactions with others I envy their self-awareness and the ability to step away from classes and clubs that they'd be such an asset to in order to dedicate the attention needed to their course load Alison myy you are truly you are truly a Hidden Gem and I hope that the grace that you have never goes unnoticed thank you good evening everyone my name is Miss Kish and I have the pleasure of teaching science here at CHS as Educators we encounter lots of students over the years and every one of them is unique in their own way but every once in a while a student comes along who leaves a lasting oppression not just because of their academic abilities but because of their character perseverance and love of learning from the first day of honors physics class my choice for Soaring Eagle stood out whether it was the reflective questions they asked the genuine enthusiasm they brought to every experiment or the kindness they extended to their peers it was clear that they were someone special They approach every challenge with determination and resilience even when faced with obstacles they remain focused and always strive to do their best in addition to their academic strengths they have a remarkable sense of integrity and maturity whether there it's their involvement in extracurricular activities like band Aces or scholar Bowl they always give their time and effort selflessly while leading by example they're the type of person who makes the world a little brighter one good deed at a time it's been an absolute joy to watch them grow and develop over the years and I have no doubt that no no matter where life takes them they will continue to achieve great things and Inspire others along the way please join me in congratulating my choice for saring Eagle Josh druy come on Logan come here good evening congratulations to all of the Sor uh Eagle Award winners this evening I am Scott Germaine weight room instructor head girls basketball coach and assistant football coach here at CHS we could go on with a bunch of stories here but I'm going to stay to the script because I know everybody else wants to see who who their their choice was but uh Logan has all the characteristics characteristics for this award respectful polite helpful to name just a few Logan is a team player I watched them grow these last four years to a young man that leads by example and is the true definition of this Ward just like everyone in here if we'd all be fortunate enough to have a group of kids like this every hour we would all be better Logan is a team guy on and off the field he's a great teammate classmate and friend who puts the team first and does everything that is asked of him as a sophomore he's catching touchdown passes in a game uh we have an injury that goes on with a varsity lineman we said Logan you want to you want to start on Friday night at at Center for us he's like sure I'll do whatever you need me to do coach and uh he never left the field as a center the rest of the Year this past year on defense for me he was asked to play outside linebacker inside linebacker defensive end and even cornerback in week one which I think he had two interception he kind of surprised himself he did this because it made his team better and that's what that this kid is all about in the classroom there's no better he leads by example the younger kids look to him for guidance and he's the one that is always there to help them out he's a hard worker who does not shy away from any task which I will believe make him a shining star in whichever path he chooses to take he was number 54 and number two as a Junior and senior my S award winner goes to Logan Hicks I can't use this one CU my eyes are bad good evening I am Courtney Alber I'm a school counselor at CHS and a faculty adviser for National Honor Society and tonight I have the great honor of Rec recognizing an exceptional student a leader and a role model summer [Applause] Harrington summer has exemplified the very best of what it means to be a student a leader and a servant to her community as president of National Honor Society she has led the largest class in our school's history with Grace organization and a deep sense of understanding under her leadership NHS has arrived making a lasting impact on both our school and our community Beyond her academic achievements and Leadership summer has dedicated an incredible 453 hours to community service and those are just the ones that she's turned into the office this is an outstanding Testament to her selflessness and her commitment to others among her many contributions she has served as a camp counselor where she's mentored and guided young campers inspiring them with her kindness and encouragement some has balanced her responsibilities with unwavering dedication proving that success is not just about achievements but about the heart and character that's behind them some are your leadership service and compassion have left a lasting mark on this school and the lives of so many as you step into the next chapter of your journey and continue your education I wish you endless success joy and fulfillment may your passion for Learning and serving others continue to light the way for those who follow in your footsteps [Applause] good evening I'm Scott hoer athletic director and I also uh coach football when I think about who I chose to be my Soaring Eagle many things come to mind many of the same characteristics that were mentioned tonight for all the other um people who received the award hardworking quiet leader passionate and dedicated um just to name a few but the one characteristic that I think describes my snaring Eagle that stands above all others is resiliency Hudson Bryant is resilient [Applause] in a time of extreme sorrow and pain Hudson stood tall continued on and performed to the best of his abilities on the battlefield he represented his team his school this community and most of all his family during an extremely difficult time I'm extremely fortunate to have had the opportunity to coach you these past four years and I'm appreciative of the lessons that you have taught so many in the face of adversity you showed everyone how to play for something bigger than yourself a warrior a brother a son a friend that everyone can learn from and be proud of Hudson you're exactly what a Soaring Eagle exemplifies congratulations and War Eagle [Applause] good evening my name is Matthew Doogie and I teach social studies here I would like to tell you about my Soaring Eagle when I think about this a award it is someone who's smart kind-hearted hardworking helpful and yet often underappreciated they may not need or draw a lot of attention to themselves and class but the class is always better because they are in it my saring Eagle epitomizes this uh these characters characteristics she constantly contributes to the betterment of my class and because of her hard work dedication and willingness to ask questions and answer questions um she makes everybody in the class better she also has a sarcastic side that I think is really quite funny and underappreciated my saring Eagle this year is Olivia Mercer [Applause] good evening so it looks like the original speech is not up here so I will just talk from my heart this year the Saar and Eagle that I have chosen has been a FFA officer that I have worked with all year long she has been there countless times she has been there through and through through the ins and the outs of AD classes through the ins and out of FFA practices judging competitions this is an individual that I truthfully believe she will succeed at the highest level um there are days where she comes in and she'll be very honest and say Miss gruin I'm not feeling it I'm not feeling it that's fine but we're still going to get it done um this individual that I would like to recognize is Ava [Applause] Hera good evening my name is Bethany Grant and I teach in the math department here at CHS Aubrey velker many qualities that make her an excellent candidate for this Ward set a standard to be admired I could go on for a long time about how great of a student she is because she does all of the right things she participates in class discussions does her homework asks questions and pays attention to instruction while all of these behaviors and attributes have contributed to Aubrey's success in my class her quiet Integrity kindness and unwavering commitment to doing what's right are why she has been chosen even though she is quiet and puts herself above others she does not let others take advantage of her kindness and will approach situations with a Fearless determination whether it's through her words and actions or even the way she makes people feel Aubrey consistently shows us what it means to lead with heart to treat others with dignity and to approach life with boldness boldness and enthusiasm Aubrey I'm confident that your life or sorry I'm confident that your determination to to achieve your goals will help you continue to soar throughout your time here at CHS and Beyond [Applause] congratulations hi everyone all right good evening my name is Allison Bitner this is my sixth year here at CHS I teach PE and Coach freshman girls basketball team um over the years I've had the opportunity to meet many students as a p teacher and a coach and in return I've made several connections with students one of which why we're here tonight tonight we celebrate and highlight an outstanding individual an athlete a leader an all-around great person Jessica beerley has spent years dedicating her passions and her journey has been one of hard work perseverance and heart from the time she first La laced up her cleats as a little kicker soccer has been a constant in her life her dedication to the sport has taken her from those early kicker days to signing with milikin University where she'll continue her soccer career while pursuing her passion for biology but soccer wasn't her only sport she played softball for an impressive 13 years before making that difficult decision to hang up her cleats and fully commit to soccer and if that weren't timec consuming enough she even played roller hockey proving that competition and teamwork were truly in her DNA Beyond her athletic achievements just as a leader not the loudest voice in the room occasionally but the one who leads by example she's the person who takes others under her Wing supporting and inspiring her peers and close friends simply by being herself whether on the fields being our Fierce keeper or in everyday life Jess has shown that leadership isn't about words it's about actions and if you ever need proof of her kind and compassionate heart just ask her clients at holiday in her love for Animals has led her to care for them with the same dedication she brings to everything she does taking time to walk nurture and look after them Jess thank you for showing what it means to be committed kind and selfless as you leave our nest and fly off to Milan I know you will continue to shine on the field in the classroom and in life congratulations on your well-deserved soring Eagle Award and I can't wait to see all the amazing things you're going to do Cong a little bit [Applause] hello everyone and good evening my name is Zach George I teach physical education and health here at CHS as well as coach track and football to me there's so many magical things about high school sports they teach you a variety of life lessons discipline the ability to take instruction and complete a task and challenging yourself mentally and physically all these traits are directly cor correlated to being successful in high school and throughout the rest of your life my sing Eagle decided to join football his senior year working within a team setting having the ability to work with others and knowing your role is crucial in life he pushed himself to be the best version of himself mentally and physically and never complained about it even once one of my personal highlights for this past year was when the student was rewarded for his actions when he entered the game and scored a touchdown in our game versus East Allen Wood River this past season throughout my time at C CHS he has shown growth in all aspects of his own life and I'm excited to see where he accomplishes in his next Endeavors my Soaring Eagle is Carson Doug Campbell [Applause] good evening my name is elely rench and I am one of the school counselors at CHS and as my privilege to present my Soaring Eagle Award to miss Brooke Hayes from the moment I met Brooke I knew she was someone special over time I've seen the profound impact she has on her peers often without without even realizing the lasting impression she leaves on their lives Brook's kindness her leadership and work ethic set her apart she's not only a lifelong learner but also a compassionate friend sister and daughter she always brings a willingness to help others and offers encouragement to her peers and approaches every challenge with Grace and determination never seeking the recognition she truly deserves what I admire most most about Brooke is her genuine Spirit and the calmness she brings to those around her she's the type of person that you want by your side when life throws you unexpected challenges I've seen her advocate for others and lift them up in tough times she brings her authentic self to everything that she does which makes her truly remarkable Brooke is a role model to underclassman always validating their concerns and making others feel seen heard valued this is a rare and Powerful quality not often seen in society today but she embodies it eort effortlessly she is unapologetically herself and anyone fortunate enough to know her is better for it brke is involved in numerous clubs Works multiple jobs and maintains exemplary grades all while doing it with Grace and gratitude she creates an environment where others feel supported valued empowered and she has been a true inspiration to me and to many others Brooke I believe your best chapter are yet to come the world is waiting for you and your future as a labor and delivery nurse will have a profound impact on many lives you'll not only bring new life into the world but also leave a lasting impression on the families with your compassionate nurturing nature brke I am one of your biggest fans and will miss you greatly as you head off to the University of Alabama in the fall but know that I will always always be cheering you on [Applause] good evening my name is Art frish I have the uh pleasure of teaching these fine young men and women industrial shop whether it be woodworking or welding and tonight is my honor to introduce to you my nominee for the 25 2025 Soaring Eagle Mr Carter groy come on up [Applause] Carter Carter's been my student for the last three years actually I started out the first year with him and he's consistently proven himself to be an exceptional student both in the class and the shop um Carter's strong work ethic and dependable nature have made him a standout both in the classroom and the shop whether working independently or as part of a team he approaches every task with determination and a positive attitude always ensuring that the job gets done right and that's that's really big throughout our time together has demonstrated not only technical skills but an impressive ability to solve problems when when a challenge arrive he is quick to assess the situation identify potential Solutions and take the initiative to resolve them this ability to think critically and problem solve often in high pressure situations on the job is a testament to his maturity and Readiness for the workforce Carter is not only a valuable asset in our class but I have no doubt he will continue to uh excel in whatever path or whatever career path he decides to follow his dedication skill set and perseverance set him apart in as as a student and as a person I believe Carter's commitment to Excellence makes him a deserving candidate for the Soaring Eagle Award and I am confident he will continue to thrive in whatever career he chooses [Applause] good evening my name is Christian AIS Rouse and I am the band director here at CHS um when choosing a student for storing Eagle I like to think about students who have what it takes to do well in any environment the attributes and skills that will take them anywhere um my student that I chose for Soaring Eagle is smart charismatic helpful kind and very funny uh they are someone who stand up for what they believe in they get the job done without being asked being a band director I'm here a lot I'm here early to load equipment and late to clean it up and I have many wonderful and helpful students but one that stands out this student is always here early and they stay late to make sure everything gets done they help our wonderful custodians clean up trash in the stands after football and basketball games and if I gave an award for most improved in my classroom this would be that person too um I think back to their freshman year um band camp they they weren't able to attend and I remember being like H these freshman they they don't know what's coming and uh he worked super hard to make sure that he was up to speed and now he's an awesome player in in the band um I mean this in the best way the growth that he has shown in the past four years is very inspiring he always puts in the work and because he puts in the work he gets great results um I don't want to take too much more time so I will leave you with this Carson Etherton you are amazing and you can do anything [Applause] right good evening everyone I'm Tim gagan and I'm social studies teacher here at colum High School uh all 44 of these students wonderful students over here are a byproduct product of each of you up there so I would just like to thank each of you for the wonderful job you've done as parents and even brothers and sisters and family great job thank you my Soaring Eagle this year is young lady who I had the pleasure of teaching both her Junior and Senior year I'm pretty sure history was not exactly her favorite subject but honestly you wouldn't know it from observing her in class she was always attentive engaged and just a great student even more more importantly to me she is courteous inquisitive and very polite just a great person who is easy to talk to this year I had the honor of having her in two electives I teach current events and the history of American music now I'm pretty sure she liked both of them all the previous descriptions of her still apply this year polite engaged fun to be around and always interested in the last few months as I thought about who to award my final soaring ego I always found myself coming back to this person I've never had a student who has consistently giving me given me more witty banter that's a nice way of saying trouble but trouble in a good mature way every single day in class some sort of comment my goofy shirt pants shoes you name it but the trouble she gave me was always good-natured fun and it resulted in a laid-back relaxed class where I firmly believe students learned a lot and frankly I may have at times enjoyed giving her a little trouble thank you Kinsey dicks for being a great person in my classes you're a wonderful young lady with a great future ahead of you and it's my honor to give you my Soaring Eagle this year [Applause] good evening everybody my name is Joe bur I teach uh agriculture here at the high school uh tonight like to celebrate our Soaring Eagles um the wild teaches us more than any classroom ever could out there on the ice in the woods under the Open Sky you learn to push forward when things get tough life mirrors these Journeys the hunt the hike the unknown whether standing on a frozen lake setting up camp or hiking the Appalachian Trail every Adventure brings uncertainty and fear but fear is just a test a storm a steep climb the moment before the shot we could back down or we could rise up like the soaring eagle above I would like to introduce my my Soaring Eagle Michel [Applause] Minard Micah embodies resilience as FFA president he has led with Integrity inspiring others to push their limits and embrace hard work community and service whether guiding his peers or facing the the wild his leadership Soares Beyond leadership Mike is an explorer at heart a dedicated Hunter a fierce hockey player an adventure who Embraces Nature's Beauty in challenges from Alaska's rugged Landscapes to his dream of hiking the Appalachian Trail he doesn't just admire the wild he immerses in it when the path is uncertain the ice is thin the weight of leadership heavy Micah doesn't back down he keeps moving forward thank you Micah mhart for unwavering commitment and Leadership [Applause] good evening and congratulations to all of our Eagles uh my name is Ford Barnfield I'm a science teacher here at CHS and as well as one of the track team coaches this year I'm currently in my seventh year teaching I've had the privilege of coaching multiple Sports and teaching a variety of classes now in my third year here at Columbia I've had the honor of recognizing three Soaring Eagles and each time I feel like I've gained a better understanding of what truly Des defines a deserving recipient this year I want to highlight the strong efforts and dedication of my soing eagle someone who is not only hardworking but also a joyed to be around she consistently completes every task assigned to her with determination and resilience no challenge is too great for her and I've witnessed this firsthand in both the classroom and on the track team where despite being just a freshman she's one of the most disciplined athletes on the entire team her dedication is equally equivalent in the classroom where she's unafraid to ask questions and seek help when needed she shows a genuine desire to learn and succeed always tackling challenges headon and giving her best effort Beyond her impressive work ethic she brings a positivity and wonderful spirit to every situation she is incredibly supportive of others whether it's encouraging a teammate who didn't perform as well or helping a friend out in class every day she does something that reminds me how fortunate I am to teach and coach such an outstanding individual is with great pride I present my sworn Eagle Elena Calvin [Applause] good evening my name is Wade Brady I teach shop I teach welding and uh CAD classes and I want to take a moment to recognize Michael Ragsdale for his effort and attitude he brings to the welding program he works hard on every project and takes the time to make sure that his work is solid he gets in does the job keeps improving his consistency and willingness to put in the effort makes a real difference in the shop and it's been a great to see his progress on a personal note I also want to say how much I appreciate the way Michael welcomed me into my first year here at Columbia High School starting somewh knew isn't always easy but he was one of the students who made the transition smoother whether it was a quick conversation or just showing respect and a good attitude it didn't go unnoticed so Michael thanks for your hard work and for making this place a little better for the people around you keep at it congratulations Michael you're my sing eagle good evening my name is Derek Riki and I teach in the math department here at CHS to begin I want to congratulate every student here for being nominated for this amazing award you should not hold this award lightly this Soaring Eagle Award resembles someone with a tremendous work ethic outstanding character and the will to do good do good and be good both inside and outside of the classroom this award means going above and beyond to doing what is is Right overcoming obstacles and pushing through adversity it symbolizes commitment determination and a model of a good leader tonight I would like to take this time to congratulate my 2025 Soaring Eagle nominee May Crabtree should I ask them all to turn around so so they don't stare at us getting to know Maya has been quite the experience especially when she started talking about her love for K-pop and kramas now as with most of you I guess some of you I did not know what the case stood for only for me to learn that everything she listens listens to or watches is in Korean uh language I don't think she speaks but she prefers to read the subtitles is what she has been told uh telling everybody now I do not want to put words in Ma's mouth but I do not believe math was one of her favorite subjects coming into high school as I'm sure a lot of you in this gym can relate although she may not enjoy learning about geometric functions or why we even have to learn math in the first place she consistently comes to class each day with a pos positive attitude ready to do what is asked I cannot think of a more fitting person for this award May carries the qualities of a good leader a good worker and most importantly a good friend my is a joy to have in class and I'm honored to present her with a 2025 saring Eagle Award this evening congratulations [Applause] [Music] good evening I'm Amanda Bard I'm the assistant principal here of CHS and in recognition of her unwavering determination strength and heart my Soaring Eagle is Ree Gerard though small and statured she is proof that big things can come in little packages a tiny but fierceful Force who leaves a lasting impression on everyone around her the ree I knew was a girl who was often quiet and chooses to be chooses to observe before she speaks but when she is ready she is quick witted sassy humor and has an attitude that shines through she is sharp-minded and highly confident beneath her reserved nature is a fighter pushing pushing herself to succeed no matter the challenge last year Reese faced one of the hardest experiences as a young person can endure the loss of a friend and a teammate and though she carried that heartbreak silently her resilien never wavered few people knew what she was going through the weight she was carrying but those who did saw how just determined she was to keep moving forward showing Grace and strength Beyond her years and then unbeknownst to herself setting the example for her sister who unfortunately went through the same thing this this year our many talks last year in my office I hope you realize and understand that there will be times in your life when you may not feel strong but strength isn't about how you feel it is about how you choose to do and that is to be brave you know where sorry you know you were raised to be strong and your strength and your facial expressions will lead others to say that you're intimidating but the truth is is that they are fearful of everything you are capable of doing and becoming never shrink yourself to make others more comfortable you are small enough tiny but you are Mighty I am so proud of the young wom you are Stay Fierce truthful funny and full of heart as you are today congratulations Reese you are my Soaring Eagle good evening my name is Kristen Baker and I am one of the school counselors here at CHS it is with my great honor to recognize D and Stevens as my saor [Applause] Eagle if there is one thing that sets dalon apart besides looking like he just walked out of Yellowstone you look great I love this um it is his flexibility both in spirit and in skill change is one of life's toughest challenges but dalen has mastered the art of sticking The Landing pun intended no matter what comes his way by the time he reached High School dalen had actually attended over five schools constantly adapting to new environments while many would struggle he embraced each transition with strength and determination proving that true flexibility isn't just physical ability it's about resilience open-mindedness and the courage to roll with whatever life throws your way dalen has demonstrated this in countless ways as the only male on the cheer team he dedicate his dedication helped lead them to a State title in construction trades courses he's earned the trust of peers and instructors by stepping up as a reliable and skilled leader no matter the challenge dalen proves he's willing to bend but never break always pushing himself to new heights Beyond his achievements I really got to know Dal for his kind heart and his willingness to help others he is welcoming inclusive and dependable someone I can always count on whether it's giving his honest opinion on an idea I have or helping assemble a stool for a teacher his character speaks just as loudly as his accomplishments as he moves into the career into a career in the trades I know he'll continue to build an incredible future one that showcases both his strength and his ability to adapt Dyan I am so proud of you keep pushing forward keep believing in yourself and never stop proving just how incredible you are [Applause] congratulations hi I am Chelsea Adair I'm a special education teacher and the adviser of the best buddies program today I have the honor of recognizing in someone who truly embodies dedication resilience and personal growth Skyler [Applause] Durban Skylar is a shining example of what it means to step outside of one's comfort zone and rise to the the challenge balancing work Athletics and Leadership is no easy feat yet Skyler does it with commitment as president of the best buddies she leads with compassion ensuring that every member feels valued and included she has shown incredible maturity in managing responsibilities proving that true leadership is about service not just a title Skylar's journey is one of continuous growth whether it's on the court at work or in her leadership role she never settles she pushes herself to do better to do more and to inspire others along the way she is a role model for perseverance and dedication showing us all that success isn't just about talent but about heart and hard work Skyler I admire your determination and the impact you make every day keep leading keep growing keep being the incredible person you are [Applause] hello my name is Alisha Arnold and I'm a Spanish teacher today's a very special day because I have the honor of recognizing an extraordinary student someone whose tenacity determination and hard work have made them stand out in an exemplary way I'd like to ask your patience for a few few moments and if you're unable to stick with me for this part I will Circle back and get you oag l [Music] ES [Music] Al [Music] Lis felicito [Applause] did you get that here I am again told you I'd Circle back it's my privilege to present my Soaring Eagle Award to louani kayanga from day one she has shown that no obstacle is too great when you have the will to overcome it her tireless dedication and strong sense of self had made her a true Mo role model for those around her not only does she work hard to achieve her goals but she does so with a positive attitude that brightens every space she enters but what truly makes her special is not just this determination it's her enormous heart she's empathetic always willing to lend a helping hand to listen and support her ability to genuinely care for others shows that true Success is Not only measured by personal achievements but the way we impact the lives of those around us she's got big goals but most importantly the dedication to achieve them I have no doubt that her future is filled with success because her unwavering spirit will take her far today we celebrate her hard work her commitment and the greatness of her heart congratulations [Applause] hi everyone my name is uh John guiney and I teach here in the English Department and my personal favorite night is tonight because as teachers we really do love to say good things about our kids and to our kids and tonight I get to say those things to my Soaring Eagle Miss Maddie hag [Applause] so when the students find out that they're nominated there's always the big question what teacher did it who did it who did it so I'm embarrassed to say I've had to tell a few fibs the last week and a half things like oh I forgot to nominate somebody or the person I nominated moved or was abducted by aliens or something but anyway did you figure out it was me I'm not a good liar all right so miss heg here is um a student who has grown quite a bit as a student and as a person her work ethic has increased tremendously since I first met her almost two years ago probably two to three times a week she'll pop her head into my room well no she marches in my room plops in my chair and she'll say Mr Guinea I don't want to go to my next class which happens to be a more challenging class and I'll say yeah you do let's go and she goes in and she rocks it this girl I have never seen someone change their work that work ethic so much as Maddie has um she is there to solve any academic problem she's matured with her social issues um increased her Focus she still participates in uh softball you do still play softball don't you okay cool uh she's always polite always respectful to adults she's always there to help her her fellow students and um I could not be more pleased to have her as a student and I know that sentiment is shared by several other teachers [Applause] Maddie it's amazing they all knew who picked them it's amazing uh at this point all the students have been T have have gone but we do have one more to give out tonight miss Steve would you please come up okay me again we do have an extra special stor Eagle to recognize our retiree Tim gagan come on come on most of us know how much love Tim Tim has for the band you two so let's see if you can catch on to a theme here I'm going to be doing some air quotes don't read it Mr gagan is someone who has truly lit an unforgettable fire in the hearts and minds of so many Colombia students whether he thinks so or not for years he has been the one who inspired challenged and uplifted students he has taught with passion humor and an energy that turned even the toughest lessons into sweetest things of Discovery you see what I'm doing here of course teaching isn't always easy some days we all question our choice of career and the thought that I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For often comes to mind but Tim pushed through the tough days he has made it to the end of his career while also making a difference in the lives of his students and his co-workers now as he steps into retirement a whole new adventure awaits no more lesson plans just time to enjoy places where the streets have no name traveling spending time with family and finally having all the time he wants to play tennis and practice guitar maybe you'll even have time to start a YouTu tribute band Sunday Bloody Sunday won't have quite the same scary feeling come may you may be retiring but with or without you your influence will always remain Tim thank you for the lessons the laughter and the fun you've shared enjoy the next chapter you deserve nothing less than a beautiful day [Applause] and while you're doing let let's give a round of applause for our student steings Eagle Award recipients I want to thank all of our teachers for all the kind words and students we invite you to wear your medals at school tomorrow and to your graduation whichever year that is thank you for making CHS a better place and thank you for joining us tonight [Music] e e e

for Community initiatives we have the March menstrual product Drive in honor of women's History Month the department of prevention and Human Services is collecting menstrual products to help individuals who struggle to afford them you can donate unopened pads tampons and menstrual cups at Ashlin High School town hall or the community center throughout March

Hi guys, I'm Rish P. I'm Aru. And I'm Rish N. And welcome to the Hoyala Stunt Conversations. So tell me about your events. So I first started playing cricket with my dad when I was about like 3 years old. And he's always loved cricket. He's loved it ever since he moved here from India. So that's how I first got into cricket. and coach Vijay and his academy gave me a great chance to start developing my game further and then that's how I got into tournaments. I first started at around the age of seven, eight. My dad and me were just playing baseball one day and then out of nowhere he said let's start playing cricket. You know I used to play cricket when I was little. So I started playing and then I kept loving the game. It was fun. I enjoyed it. And then my mom and my dad were looking for an academy around where I can kind of have more fun while playing and play games and get competitive with it.

I think Cricket just like many other sports really do bring or build strong relationships with each other cuz I mean it's one of the biggest team sports I know you only have two people out there batting at once but I truly believe like without um Good Chemistry on a cricket team without uh following like the leaders and working together it's impossible to win and um tricket really builds those connections with each other um bringing people up when they're low when they have one bat over or when they get out um it's all just connections and a lot of you build a lot of people skills while you're playing especially with other teams um uh most teams at least in our levels have couple friends every here and there so really um playing all these games build these connections with even other people that we might have never met like someone from California might become like or best friend or stuff like that like I know a lot of people from Miami and Houston and things

I just wanted to um you know ask everyone for a few minutes just to uh think about what it means to be a citizen and um and yet and a citizen who um gives of themselves over and over again in our community and uh recently last late last week Ed Bates um passed away and you know Ed was a longtime volunteer in our community um he was served on the uh select board from 198 2 to 1987 um at some pretty significant times I believe that was when the chart he was on the charter review commission we went to a town manager um I'm sure Mike's pleased about that most of the time anyways right Mike um and uh you know he did several other things through his his years in Ashland he um was like I said the charter review commission he was on the renovation for the current uh police station that well wasn't it isn't current now on Street um he represented Ashlin in the in the region as a the metropolitan area planning commiss commit Council um and you know and and most recently uh he was instrumental in the roundabout on Route 126 and I know that um one of his sons Wayne Uh wrote a note to Joe and I last night and um he said you know in the family they joked that if the roundabout um causes a lot of problems then Ed will be famous for it but if it if it doesn't if things go smoothly um he won't be famous for it and I think he he's not famous for that but um certainly he he did so much for our community what's a committed volunteer I have to say that I had always thought that he was born and bred here because he was so committed to uh Ashland uh I know that he loved this community and um it's showed by the many ways that he volunteered to support the community so um he was 90 years old and um he's left a family you know many some grandchildren here and and some children here um and what a certainly um you know a fine role model he is for all of them and and uh so I just want to thank him and offer my sympathies to his family um and just uh again the world is a better place because of he has been here in Ashland Ashland is a better place Claudia thank you so much for those kind words yes uh it it it's funny you know I'm I'm not funny but I'm looking at his obituary the advantage of being at home and he the pictures of the of him smiling and he always had a smile and a good word to say and was a true volunteer and really gave back to Ashland and so many things so thank you for all those kind words and I also add my condolences to to his family um and Ashlin should everyone in ashin who has known him or his family should do the same let me just give one plug now excuse me for the roundabout because um you know after I became a member or when the roundabout was being built I started reading up a little bit about it and roundabouts and why they're important and and I I told Wayne I said I I found out quite a bit about roundabouts that they they um you know reduce the number of uh points of conflict that one might have um in the in an intersection it keeps traffic moving and it moves it at an angle that keeps everybody moving slowly so it increases the the number um of vehicles that that it can handle many more than what you handle with the stop sign or traffic lights and so um so I thank him for that I I uh I not only do I use that that roundabout sometimes but I also um it I you see them all over the place now and I understand why so it's definitely been been used more and more in different places to make traffic keep flowing great yeah it's amazing what you learn when you sit on the select board Claudia yeah yeah who know great okay moving on we're going to go to Citizens participation Mark Don I that you have your hand raised we will unmute you and again you won't be on camera but uh Mark once you see that the red light is gone from your microphone you can go ahead and start speaking okay yes good evening Mark 2119 Main Street um start off with the uh yeah thank you Claud for bringing up the Miss Bas did pass away he was one of those friendly people that you can come up to talk to and he'd be very sociable and great sense of humor to talk about and his family was is a good example of what Ash was at the time the the baits gang was a was a great area to be around the high school with when you see the sons playing he always attends every game and he always been a good a good Ashan father select board person when he was on okay that is that now the to through the chairman to to the town manager and I go talk to him sure well well go ahead and ask what you have to ask Mark and we'll determine if if we can have him answer it there is a comprehensive plan committee tomorrow night meeting tomorrow night correct the talk we had a couple of weeks ago is now that's coming that should be going to the comprehensive plan hopefully yes or no um Mark I'm not sure if that'll be discuss tomorrow night but did you have the conversations um I suggested to with the people I suggested you have a conversation with first it it was what when I came into you with my piece of paper M that that idea I talked to the planner board I talk I talked to last night to the substainability community people good so so I'm I'm getting my word out there okay yeah I'm not sure I I think there's a pretty specific agenda tomorrow night so um so I I don't want to promise that it will it would be discussed but um obviously they're they're open meeting Mark they're open meetings Mark so yeah and I do have the agenda I just wanted to make sure is it going to be like this meeting tonight or can it be attended at the library can be attended at the library ah thank you so I can come in and sit and doing the the last 10 15 minutes where the citizens can talk then I I could ask that question couldn't I if it comes up well I don't know what your question is so yeah I would say if you feel you know if you'd like to attend please attend and if we if your question is relevant to the discussion then yes you will be you will during citizen participation have the opportunity to ask it yeah could I'm still I'm still pushing up my agenda that I have in mind and everything's G to happen after town meeting which is in May there's a lot going on in town meeting there is especially the uh the Chang in the bylaws and the a addu housing and stuff like that there was talked about in the planning board that I was actively involved getting my want two two cents in so I'm just just making sure that it's not what I brought up is not going to be put off to the side and it's got oh go like I said Mark I think you know come to the meeting and you can certainly per present your question or you know concerns and then um it'll be determined what how it can be used or uh moving forward okay then the very last thing would be Mr to manager don't lose my idea I still I'm only a three minute walk away that is so true Mark okay thank you thank you Mark if there is anyone else who would like to do citizens participation right now is the opportunity we'll see if there's other things that we talk about we we'll we we'll ask for input um seeing none uh we are uh still waiting on one of our board members but I know she was having some te technical difficulties so we are going to continue moving forward I see we have uh our economic development team who is going to be presenting our communication plan with Michael so it's okay with you uh let's start a little early Michael I don't know if you're starting or if Beth and sure I'll just give a a real brief intro um so I'd like to uh obviously introduce everyone to uh Beth uh Reynolds and everybody actually knows Beth so no no introduction is needed but uh not everybody in the community knows Jordan lyen who is our Communications coordinator um has been with us for several months now and Jordan has uh done a very very very good job uh just with our communication overall and event she she got started right at the uh tail end of of event season so she didn't necessarily have a chance to show uh her talents in that Arena but we are quickly getting uh back to the beginning of event season as we could tell with today's weather so we'll be excited to see her in that capacity but uh in indeed she has been working a lot on our Communications if you've seen kind of a little change in tone in our social media or like our Facebook and or our Facebook account uh specifically um she's been a big part of that uh if you have seen us use Instagram and now Tik Tok um more than in the past uh you can thank her for that especially Tik Tok I was I was uh took a lot to sell me on that idea but she was pretty Relentless and quite frankly it's it's been amazing but um as we have talked about before um they were tasked with um working and developing a Communications plan and for the community or for the town I should say and uh they've been hard at work on that and we've gone through a couple of different drafts internally and at this point I'll turn it over to them and uh let them run through that plan with you um and uh have a discussion and answer any questions you might have great great thank you um nice to see everyone um thank you for letting us present our Communications plan um Jordan's been hard at work at this um I'm just going to I'm going to kind of let her take the um take the floor but um just to sort of uh you know before we get into it just want to make sure that when you're looking at this we're really trying to make sure that there's a solid plan so that you know if there are changes or um if anything were to happen to anyone um we know what the plan is so somebody could come in and just really pick up um where somebody left off to really um keep the town going because Communications is is vital you know that that's what I started with here nine years ago I was like we need to really work on our Communications um there was a huge gap and um we've worked really hard over the years to fill that and I feel like this Communications plan is just going to move us forward even more um to keep us on track it's a good plan to go back to just to make sure we are staying on track and doing what the community um needs um so I am going to share my screen um and um Jordan is just going to kind of talk about some of the key uh points of this um plan and then open it up to you um for questions so is that okay yes please go keep going terrific okay awesome can you see that yep okay hello everybody um I like Beth said created some highlights from the communications plan and if you have it in front of you it's pretty lengthy so I wanted to Target a few things that were um excited to get started on or we really want to focus on to make our Communications better starting off with Target audiences and content this was something that um in a iteration of a Communications plan that I found um from the past wasn't really spoken about and I think it'll be important going forward so I'll just run through some of what's on the communications plan but Facebook's general population will be 25 to 34 so our main goal there is to get critical information meeting posts um events and Graphics out there versus Instagram where we've been posting the same things on both platforms the demographic actually drops to 18 to 20 24 um and we find that on Instagram specifically the photos uh less critical information and even short firm videos which we haven't fully Doven to yet um do better and that's what Instagram is made for is those um more personal kind of human posts instead of the oh there's a meeting today posts like Facebook like Michael said we just started with the Tik Tok that is 18 to 24 is the larg largest demographic with significant usage in mid 20s so my fellow mid2 year olds are looking there for news entertainment just about everything we go to Tik Tok for so my goal specifically with Tik Tok was to engage a younger audience um young young adults the high schoolers here have really taken a liking to the Tik Tok so far so I'm hoping to be able to get some information out on there but mostly to engage and um educate people that might not be super familiar with municipal government or the inner workings of a town just keep it more fun and light-hearted there we don't have um recent usage on X but or previously known as Twitter but age 25 to 34 there um like I said we haven't posted on there in a while it's kind of in my opinion a dying platform so we can't fully predict the target audience and content type for what we would use it for um YouTube again we don't post regularly on our YouTube but 18 to 34 is the largest user demographic which would be simply for long form videos where we have two other platforms that we can put short form videos YouTube would be best for those long form and then lastly LinkedIn which again is one of our platforms that we haven't fully dove into yet young adults and adults age 25 to 34 is the largest user demographic so press releases and official updates are um best on that platform um moving down to Department roles um we thought it was important to high light department roles in our Communications plan just so that whoever comes looking at the communications plan doesn't think that Beth and I just do everything for everyone which would be a little much but um this one's a little hard to pinpoint in the communications plan because it's spread throughout every section but a few of the things um would be website social media Publications um having specific assigns roles for management of website management of social media unless people decide to assign them otherwise we just put department heads um because it was it's easier to say that they'll do that and then if you know like Beth has said oh Jordan you're going to run the Tik Tok then I know that that's my responsibility but in general it'll be to the Department's discretion um same with all of our printed media ashlon access local Town pages that we participate in um we open it up to departments but it's not required that they do that so it's again at their discretion and then there are some other departments aside from the official Ashland um social media that have their own platforms like the library the Senior Center Police and Fire ashon wreck prevention and Human Services and then The Corner Spot and ashon bis buuz so we wanted to put those in there to make sure we knew those were platforms that were being utilized by town the town and run by departments next is emergency communications so we have in the communications plan some main objectives like timely messages clear and concise messaging during crisis um crossposting updates on all channels where needed and then we go into specifics talking about digital platforms um so monitoring social media being proactive against misinformation and disinformation um collaborating with respective departments like if a road shuts down for a main water break we're talking with DPW to make sure we're getting the most accurate information out for them code red which we've had to do a few in the last few weeks um to notify the residents um of any emergency alerts or time sensitive things I think that's a a program that we can utilize more um for just need to know basis I know I was a resident in m in um westbro and I still get their notifications when it's a super hot day and they're going to have cooling stations so stuff like that will try to utilize more than other tools like the LED boards um and physical postings that could be utilized when necessary for events road work due dates and then General updates as we see fit and then because we're here talking to the select board I figured I'd highlight the select board responsibilities you'll see throughout the communications plan that Beth and I have a lot of our responsibilities LIF listed out and then like I said a lot of their responsibilities of the department heads and other departments um what they'll be doing but um especially in talking to other towns lately we realized how big of a role that the select board does play especially in online communication so we figured we'd lay it out here now and I'll read it out just to remind everyone if if you haven't read it yet but um each member should accurately represent the town and its Mission across all Communications channels take a proactive approach to ensure respectful and fact-based conversation is occurring across Communications channels and reactively correcting misinformation across Communications channels when needed supporting the town's community outreach efforts by attending and promoting events like some of you attended the pickle bowl ribbon cutting today develop online presence to establish reliability and integrity with community members on social media and lastly support and Foster an environment across all Communications channels that welcomes discussion and participation without retaliation I think that last sentence is kind of a common ground between all of our Communications plan we want to make sure that everyone that is getting our Communications or engaging with us across different channels feel like they can talk to us and share their worries share their concerns share their praises whatever it may be and be taken seriously but also like I said a few times we want to be a to be there to correct disinformation and misinformation where we can so it's definitely a big work together moment this Communications plan is not just for Beth and I and Michael it's for everyone that works for the town um to try to keep everyone in the loop keep all of our practices out there like I said at the bottom this is a resource so we wanted to be able to provide all the practices for communications so that we can train someone or hold us all accountable for what we should be doing and then like Beth said if there's an unexpected circumstance where somebody has to come in and learn how to do this we want to have as much as we can in this Communications plan for them to take it over so that being said if you have any comments or questions sure so can we'll take them now great well thank you thank you um yeah it's a very thorough thing I I do have I think I'm going to push back a little on your Facebook demographics I mean unless you did some reporting or something I I would say just B again this is just based on my interactions and with my 30-year-old children I'm GNA say Facebook you're hitting the probably 40 to 60 year olds are on Facebook so that's something to think about as you're creating things on Facebook I think you're right about I mean Instagram is certainly that 20 to 35-year-old Tik Tock who knows um it's definitely interesting um I'm going to open it up to the board questions comments just raise your hand so I know what order to put you guys in Claudia you've unmuted first so I'll let you go first all right thank you yeah that it's a very thorough plan um and I certainly appreciate it I I think uh communication is always one of the biggest challenges right um and and certainly in the the the time that we live um it things have changed so much in the past you know I would would say 255 years and um when you think about the fact that select board meetings we I mean wacka TV's there but when I back in my early days on the school committee we there was a newspaper reporter in the room every day and there was an article in the paper the next day and it was really a you know a really good way to communicate with people because people got a newspaper and read it so now you have all these different um media platforms and it's really H what do use right what how do we communicate and so I appreciate the way you broke it out um I agree with with Yolanda that probably a lot of uh older people are on Facebook um but I think um I I know a lot of people too that um would fall into that older category and they might be on Instagram they might not be active themselves but they read it right so they do um so and the other the other thing I think so I think there's kind of two things where trying to do here right we're trying to inform our community keep them informed and we're also trying to engage people for that otherwise haven't been engaged and so I think that those are the two biggest challenges in my mind um it's it's it's a it's a lot um and the other the other thing that um the website is is kind of a static thing but it is someplace where people go to get information for uh oh I need to you know get my dog a tag what do I do I need something to do with trash what so um so and I I do think that the website plays an important role but it isn't where people are probably going to go for the latest in greatest news um so in any case I I certainly am uh excited about this I think that um I I know that sometimes yeah I want to be careful how I say this but sometimes people who negative might be posting on Facebook um so I think it's important that we're aware of what's being said on Facebook um so you know that that does seem to be a place where negativity survives and thrives pretty well sometimes so that that's key um so I guess that's really just my only comments I hope that um I might like to sit with you someday Jordan and go over some of these things because I could use some um freshening of some of my social media skills and so um I I might be interested in doing that if you'd be interested in in uh absolutely we'll make you a star Claudia all right thank you very much great thank you Claudia Joe comments questions uh thank you madam chair uh I don't know if anybody can hear me or not we can okay great thank you uh I apologize I may be cutting out at at some point during the meeting how your shoulder Jo we need to we need to find out about your shoulder how are you how are you feeling well that that's the reason why um couple of setbacks over the last couple of days but it's uh it's more than I anticipated unfortunately and the doctor was uh very pleased that that went through and I definitely won't be pitching this year for the Red Sox that's for sure uh but um it'll be it'll be a success it's just going to be a long process so I is your friend Joe ice is your friend believe me I wish I had stock and ice right now because I'd be I well I wouldn't be Elon Musk because I wouldn't be burning they wouldn't be burning my cows but anyway um I great presentation I appreciate all the effort that uh you all put into this uh I think it's very much needed especially today uh the demographics in town changes and as that changes we all uh we all look to uh have better communication uh with our with our peers and uh no matter what age we are and I I think that uh this help Bridges some of the uh the issues that we've had over over in the past so uh congratulations great job and uh I'm looking forward to using uh some of these as well my my again my shoulders doing great I want to thank everybody for the uh for the thoughts and prayers prior uh prior to my surgery last Wednesday and uh yeah I was in the hospital for uh four days um little longer than anticipated but um yeah yeah when things happen they happen in in in droves unfortunately and uh everything went well but it was just uh it was a long it was a long tedious process and um you know five hours so we're we're we're okay good we're okay it's just the body's going to take a little longer for it to heal yeah but we're doing well and Claudia I want to thank you for uh adding those great words uh about uh Mr Ed Bates I've known that good portion of my life uh I've coached his sons in baseball up at the high school uh will especially and uh a great family uh love he bleeds Ashland blue um and I'm sorry to see him go but um yeah 90 years old God bless I you know it just uh it's a sentiment to everybody there and to his family and for his legacy in town and um you're right I hope he doesn't become famous as a result of that is as way would put it but um recognition for all the work that he's put into that uh along with uh Paula paker uh you know from years past who initiated and started that that that whole process with u with a lot lot of groups a lot of people in that town in that area so um but thank you I I appreciate that and um I'll be back I just it it's just going to be a little longer than I thought that's all do what you need to Joe but you're here now so when you feel like when when you can't sit any longer just go ahead and okay if you see me if you see me bail out you know that I've reached not a problem my my limit so I appreciate that but thank you madam chair and thank thanks thank board memb I appreciate all your concerns it's been very helpful thank you great Brandy Andor Makita who wants to jump in next about the communications plan if anything Brandy go ahead so first of all thank you guys this was great it's so good to see it kind of outlined in a real real um detailed way and you guys have put a lot of work into this so thank you for for all of that um a couple of things that I wanted to just ask about like um so did you guys do some digging into other towns and how what we do kind of um compares to other communities as far as like different types of communication and reach and things like that I'm just kind of curious um how how we are against other our our other surrounding towns so I am pretty active on social media looking at other towns looking at other Town's websites um their even their like forms and their surveys and just seeing where we compare I will say to my knowledge we are the only town in all of Massachusetts with a Tik Tok so not on the back that everybody but I learn a lot from a lot of the other towns I do notice that much like other towns our photos do better with our community just like posts where there's photos versus a graphic so we've know no that we're trying to implement more of those um obviously you know like a city like Framingham has a lot more engagement just because of I think the amount of people they have versus the amount of people we have kind of trickles over into how many followers they have but we are gaining followers on every platform pretty steadily and um in just how many months have we had the Tik Tok two two months um we've got almost 500 followers which is a lot for a town especially when there's no other Town doing it so um I'm proud of that but I think we do um do things better graphic wise than some towns and then like I said I'm learning a lot from looking at other towns and what they're doing so trying to implement their best practices where where we can we do follow a lot of other towns newsletters as well and our town manager newsletter is above and beyond Beyond anyone else's in my opinion that I get the ones that I receive um they're very engaging uh they're they're up they're they're current um and I think there's they're consistent so I do think we sort of really um hit a home run on that one and the feedback that we get on that is terrific so yes we do watch the other um the other towns and communities um and we also do watch the the social media feeds as well so yep we are yeah if if I just may interject just a bit I think um you know I I think the the team here is being entirely too modest in terms of um you know some of the the activity and the comparisons with other communities Facebook accounts I think um you know if if you go to other towns you know social media Pages their Facebook page specifically I'm referring to right now um you'll see like there's hardly any activity or any type of Engagement going on and there's hardly any postings um so our platform is at least you know uh at least serving as as a way to to get communication out and also not just get communication out but encourage dialogue to some extent um which is something that you don't see and then if you peel the layer back one more further you'll start seeing is the reason they're not posting as many things is because they don't have as much to post about so they don't have they don't have nearly as many events I mean the the number of events that we do compared to other communities is just really phenomenal um but then like projects uh you know sidewalk infrastructure projects uh land purchases things like that um so I I think you know it's a great Testament to the work that uh we're doing as a community and also what our our teams do in Communications so I I agree I absolutely agree um in fact you know Beth you mentioned the the town manager newsletter one of my one of my notes that I had taken was um I I would kind of recommend maybe even putting into this communication plan what how many um subscribers you have to that and um sort of like the some a little bit of data just about how many people generally open these emails and and um click through and things like that because I think I think part of the the the um I don't want to say the power behind that but I think think the reach is is pretty significant in town and I think that that's something that um you know I I think I think you you should be very proud of because the fact that not only do a lot of people receive it but a lot of people read it every week and it's something that people look forward to so that's a I think a huge that you should um you should highlight on your Communications plan thank you yeah we have about 5,000 followers on the um or people signed up for the newsletter our clickr rate is nearly 60% which is phenomenal for constant contact and our clickthrough rates about 13 to 15% which is also like really high when in the constant contact world so our numbers have been steady for so long and they keep climbing which is great but that's really great feedback thanks Brandy yeah and again I just I I have to say most of the other communities they're only putting it out monthly um you know team we're doing it weekly but you know Brandy I don't know if you've encountered this but you know to be at like an MMA conference or something Have select board members from other towns come to you and say oh hey I read your newsletter and you're like oh wow that's cool he subscribe that was good when other people when other people notice right in other towns yeah that's awesome Yep y y um I did have a couple other quick questions so the um you're the social media part when when um you had talked about correcting misinformation and and and things like that so what is what is your process for responding to social media like at what point do you um would you turn off commenting or hide comments if there's some you know sometimes sometimes people are respectful and their in their comments and sometimes we know that they're not um and so what is your process for responding you know and if if you're looking to us to respond are you looking to us to respond to the Ashlin Pages or are you asking us specifically to respond to sort of out in the sort of the greater social media world just some clarification on that too so Brandy I think you're actually the perect example of responding when it's necessary um like you did on our most recent um what was it the post somebody commented about the tri board meeting and you went in there and you corrected the information immediately or you know pretty quickly we tend not to like definitely don't delete and tend not to hide or even turn off comments on our posts and a lot of the times that we have responded to people's comments have been in those Community boards um we do have a policy though so if any words there are words that are Tagged so if anyone swears those are hidden immediately so social media is part of open meeting law um so we do have to provide um history if asked so um but those there is a but there is a policy on our website that states like if and if you do SL put slander on the site then you can be actually blocked that you get three tries and you're out you get a letter we've sent a couple letters home to people before and and not necessarily part of this communication plan but I know you know Claud has brought it up makita's brought it up that we as a board sort of need to have either further this discussion or real quick now like Brandy you're you're good at jumping on and and posting things and I think either maybe we want to check in with each other because it's it would not be good if multiple people post because that is could potentially be open meeting law violations even if it's even if you're just putting out facts if M multiple members of the select board post on social media posts we that could get us into trouble so um I mean I'm happy letting you do that but I don't know how other people feel so maybe it's a conversation or if there subject matter or something and again might not be for tonight but I think based on this communication plan and and and the new platforms and things like that I think we have to as part of the social media policy determine how we're going to approach some of these things I think the fastest the faster that we can take out miscommunication or or misinformation information the better um I think that as long as we're all sort of talking together um or alerting someone or asking like hey I saw this on there what how should I respond I think we sort of do that in internally Michael is our first go-to for that um so whatever way you can help us that's fantastic okay so Mark um I see you have your hand up we're not going to include public in this discussion right now um so hold on and we'll see where it goes as to whether or not we open it up to the public thank you uh Brandy what else did you have or are you the one other thing that I wanted to see if um could be included in it because I know there was talk about sort of the um you know signing up for the communications I know you guys have a great one-page document that has like all the links to all the newsletters and all that stuff I would also include um maybe in this Communications plan something about um people can sign up to receive meeting agendas and meeting minutes and those kinds of notifications too because I think that's part of the whole um out Outreach to make to get people to um be more engaged so I know it's always a struggle to to to um get people to to attend meetings and you guys do a great job of putting out posts about planning board meetings or you know select board meetings and things like that um it but kind of there's there there's been a lot more people that have moved into town in the last say five years they may not know that they can get those notifications either by email or by text uh of when these meetings are happening so they can take a look at agendas and see if it's something that they want to attend so um that's my own maybe that maybe that's a posting in Michael's next newsletter right to remind people or a future newsletter that's something that we can definitely include in um I'll have to check our our one pager but we can definitely include it in the welcome packets that we send out to Residents I can double check and make sure it's on our Communications page online but um as for like putting it in the communications plan for the community like this plan when I was writing it is wasn't necessarily Community facing so they're not going to go to this Communications plan see where they can sign up for newsletters but sense definitely something we can make sure is out there and is being sent to new residents as well we do that we put it in the welcome packets too for every new Resident they get a welcome packet um yeah rent rental renters and um home owners good okay M I think that's a great idea Sor that's a great idea y yeah I think uh thanks uh Madam chair I think y'all have covered most of the things that I was going to ask about the only thing that I was there are two things that I wanted to say or just make sure that we didn't forget uh the first piece is on across the board I think we talked we talked about news newsletter uh performance uh analytics but I'd like to see more information on kpis for social um so you know uniques you know all the standard kpis that you see on social I think that's important to report on and for us to get an understanding of so that when we try to craft strategically what what's getting reach and how it's getting reached we do it in the smartest and most efficient way possible I would give that piece of advice um the second piece is um I was just looking over the U the select board piece uh I noticed that we included we did include a town manager coffee uh as part of the Outreach effort we do have select board um you know office hours too and I think we should put that in the plan as well uh if we're going to do in person or all channels um so that's something that we do and I think we should make sure we highlight that but I did want to congratulate you guys on a really great and thorough plan and I'm really looking forward to sort of uh you know expanding it and getting some more of the specific information like um like we talked about uh cified into it and um you know I think this is this is a really awesome start so thank you for all of your hard work good okay just one or two last things for me regarding the website my question is it talks about how each department is responsible for posting and I get that it can't be one person but who sets the tone for the website right because I know I go to the website and sometimes there's not consistency in how things look or how things are posted um I mean I the the number of complaints I get about the website that it's hard to navigate I mean even just to get to the agenda for this you have to you know you have to go you have to go to the calendar and look for it there and then you have to push on the selectboard meeting and then you have to pick you know so I know we did an over overhaul of the of the website probably about four years ago five years ago Brandy six years ago was it I know it was when Brandy first came on so because she was involved in it um we tied a little bit to the website because Civic plus is the um is the website we use and it's in you can only do like we only have so much control because it is I see a template so it is a little frustrating in certain ways and we don't have one specific person that is dedicated to the website we are sort of team we work very closely with it it's definitely not doesn't lie in our department Alone um and we rely on other departments uh for all of their information obviously they need to keep it as current as possible with everything they going on in each department struggle and we do have um an opportunity now to look at POS a possible uh free upgrade so we are working on that it's just a different it's a different plan okay okay Claudia what was your question I was just wondering who actually does the postings there are multiple people or yeah everybody has access to their own page every department head that's that's why I asked that about you know if because there's multiple people doing it sometimes you can you can tell there's different personalities which partly I get but on the other hand if I'm going to the website I sort of want to a feel for the whole thing if if the template if the template locks us down from doing something we want to do maybe one option might be to then have a have on that page that kind of doesn't do everything that we wanted to do have a link that takes us to you know a Google page or a Google site or because you know almost everything you can publish now so it wouldn't and it would be a more complex you know activity than most of our departments would want to do but I'm just thinking um it it might be a way if it was significant enough it might be a way of getting out of breaking out of that template a little bit um the other thing that I would be interested in too is if we could look at from particularly the um the town manager newsletter and and you know how many what's the how many people on that are are people who are voting in other words I'd like to be able to compare the people who are reading that and the people who vote I think it's Pro there's probably a pretty high correlation right and um I just think going forward some of this information about uh how voters are getting their information or might be apt to want to get their information is important um so I'm just thinking that that that might be something that we look at um CLA those are there are good points um just in terms uh I just want to make a couple comments just about the consistency of things um because I think that's the the word that we're looking for is you know a consistency throughout uh the the different pages of our web page Universe if you will yeah and uh I think one of the things that we have to work on I've mentioned it uh before are things just like simple file naming conventions you know just having a standard one of those so you know you don't necessarily have have you know something that that again is inconsistent you know if you see a template for a planning board meeting and you know like a select War meeting is going to be in that same template well it's pretty easy to find in in a variety of ways and then just consistency in things like the text I mean just the guide should be you know 12 whatever 12 point Times New Roman whatever they're calling you know fonts um these days so U so yeah I think there's some small tweaks that we can also do that could make a big difference I I think we can be forgiving about um things not being consistent if our search features were work well right I mean I ultimately how many people go I mean I don't love clicking around on a website looking for something right so if there's a good strong search engine there if that that's what I'm going to go to and then I'm I'm very forgiving then right about because the world's not a linear world anymore so you know let me go to the the search engine and let me search for what I and find it because I think that that and I think that might be I don't know our search feature I think it I don't know if it's why it doesn't seem to work as well as I feel like it should you know I'm not sure is it maybe it's because everything's not named in the same format maybe you know maybe well it's it's a product issue um but I will I I'll agree with that but I'll just I'll just kind of say what I I think we're saying I think I think the first thing for consistency like you said Michael is it it's really kind of more business process related the stuff than um actually like technology except for the search feature um so I kind of feel like yes a style guide like a a very brief style like a one-pager just about um like you said like everything from like font presentation to also tone like just a a general style guide and some guidance for department heads you know when they're you know for posting I think is a good idea and might actually help with with the consistency I think there may be an opportunity also for just more intad departmental coordination and so far as posting and posting cadences Etc uh but Beth I I will ask if if we're up for an upgrade soon I'd be curious to find out you know what what that upgrade consists of because if it does a feature like a more Google based search or a better product search or some other technological tools that will make the um uiux experience for the website uh more palatable and useful for our residents that might be something worth exploring and if it's if I think you said it might have been free so that's even more yeah RIT director Paul Carpenter is looking into that now yeah so um so Claudia like that might be part of it so you know once they find out we can find out yeah great okay anybody else anything no it was great it's great it was very uh thorough thank you okay thanks uh Mark if it's a quick question I will allow you to unmute um but it needs to be a quick question please because we do need to move on if we could unmute him we all set now okay y you're all set go ahead Mark again quick question about the communications plan first of all it's it's it's a great extra extra step to understand the backgrounds and get the information out another thing is I have talked have gone through the T manag here his his um manager's website there and I gone through everything I mastered I mastered out I have mastered our town website it's it's no problem it is simple to do you just need patience you just got need know how understand the background this communication patience is not my virtue I can tell you I I can almost tell because you find you find out that um typing is not my skill either and spell the words in the answer okay I'm I am so happy with this this is like me getting through on the website to any board that has an email and I can get a response back that's great this is what I'm coming down to is to ask through the chairman to Beth who has my email can you send me the welcome packet to this because I want to be hooked up on this sure no problem you got it thank you that's it great thank you Mark thank you Beth thank you Jordan it was great uh first of all it was great to seeing you both in person this afternoon this is a great plan um you know as you both said there's still some tweaks and things and and as with anything I think it's a living breathing product as we look at things and so Jordan what do you think a select board Tick Tock Dance I mean come on I am all here for that I for the record that I not here for that come on we can have fun with that we can have fun with that figure out we'll figure something out I'm there for [Laughter] you thank you great well thank you both um okay we're GNA move on in our agenda so the Surplus disposal procurement policy is being pulled uh right Diane and Jen yes okay so we're not doing that um we had an open meeting law complaint that was filed and I believe we have a response in our packet so Jen or Michael I haven't seen that yet was that in it was in our updated packet that came at the end of the day that um okay let me pull Diane sent that Diane sent yeah um and I didn't get to ask did that other set of minutes get updated that Brandy commented on no okay so we'll pull those out of the consent Michael did you want to say something um I just um want to just clarify is that not part of our um open meeting law response I think there was conversation that it was so we may need to um so brandy brandy had um indicated it still had incorrect information and Brandy right see the one section about the the coaching piece okay just was that the one that you were referring to too yeah yeah it was it was it was incorrect what we had right discussed in exact session so okay yeah so if if you know we I mean I'm sure we can fix it and and approve it for our next meeting yeah I can I mean I can definitely make that make that change on that right though I believe we have to send the response to the open meeting law complaint we're talking about two different things so I'm I'm aware great he's talking about the specific meeting minutes that had issues but as he said the B that um one of the sets of meeting minutes is part of the open meeting law complaint and our and our response um but I think even without updating that one set of minutes and approving them today we can review the response so I'm going to do this if you didn't get a chance to read the response that was in our packet I'm going to give you a few minutes to do that don't usually do this but I know it's important that we review this and vote this response tonight because we have to get it um back out back to we have to respond to the state so Joe did you get a chance to read them read the response or you're muted you need to unmute he can unmute himself right Jen he should be able to yeah as a co-host find that button Joe there you go I actually was rereading the uh oh okay okay yep we're good okay Claudia did you get the chance to read it or are you doing it now you're doing it now okay Makita did you get a chance to read it or are you reading now how do I have to vote on the response to this okay yeah and and actually while other people are reading I was listening to something I forget what it was some training or some something so even if you were not present at a meeting if you feel that you know you can trust that the meeting minutes are accurate you can vote to you can vote to approve meeting minutes so you can also vote I mean this is this letter even though you weren't even though you weren't on the board at the time yeah you but you are a current member of the body so it's against the current it's against the current select board okay so you can review this this and we can all vote on this open meeting law response okay okay right and you can even vote I mean I don't know that I think you abstained when we reviewed them all in exec session because you weren't there so that's fine right but the letter is an open meeting law complaint against the current select board so you should read it and make sure you're comfortable and that um I mean if you feel like you want to abstain because it wasn't when you were on the board that's fine too but you can vote it if you'd like it says that I think this okay the yeah the I guess I got a little confused because I was the last time I read the the um complaint like there was like um yeah there were just talking about the action and it threw me off yeah all right well thanks for the clarification I I just you know I just don't feel like I mean I wasn't I wasn't part of the body at the time so I want to I don't know if my I don't know if I if if I should say anything about this so y That's fine okay totally fine Brandy I'm good you're good Claudia you good okay okay if I could have a motion to accept the response to the open meeting law complaint as presented by Town Council so moved second and second thank you Brandy for the motion thank thank you Joe for the second any other discussion okay um we're going to do roll call vote Bennett Bennett I Kinsman hi manani I Keegan abstain abstain and Grieves ey so that carries 41 um thank you all very much for that moving on town meeting update Jen I believe this is for from you that we're going to get this so town meeting update on the warrant I'm just trying to let me just pull up my draft um so we have a number of Articles um I think we went quickly over it I was hoping to have a draft but we're sort of waiting there's a number of bylaws that will be going through the planning process um and I wanted to make sure that I had um the correct language because once we put that in the warrant I get worried about Version Control and so sort of waiting in the next couple week 10 days we'll have a good draft I think um so we'll have article one which is town uh Town reports um article two will be the uh 26 budget article three will be transferred to the oped trust um I'm holding a spot for a possible transfer for from the special education stabilization fund and I think we'll have uh you know further conversations about that um in our tribe board meetings um but I'm holding one just so we don't forget um we'll have it the annual consent article that really focuses on grants Road contracts um contracts that were allowed to enter into easements and then the revolving fund I think is the the larger one of that um there's also a consent an annual consent article for uh CPA um that sort of outlines uh their Appropriations and their payments that are scheduled for the next year um we'll have actually three CPA fund funding authorization article um one for the ash Ashlin Arboretum for $500,000 to construct that Park um which was the former cadal former site of Cadillac paint um we will have um a 100,000 $110,000 for digit um a historical preservation of Records um through our clerk's office um and then also additional funds for the dog park for 60,00 and that's really based on the bids that we received a few few weeks ago which I think we discussed at our last meeting um we're going to ask the town meeting to accept um a local provision of the Mass general laws that allows our assessor just to sort of um capture New Growth um throughout the entire year and so this is an older um Act of actually active um 89 that we had not accepted and our new assessor said you know in his previous uh towns this was something that they had done and it was helpful um so we're we're going to ask for that um we will likely have two additional borrowing articles um and they're both on previous articles so um I believe it was last may we had asked for 4 million authorization for $4 million for our water treatment plant for the ozone um those estimates a year later are coming in probably $2 million higher than anticipated and so um we're we're looking at possibly increasing I'm not sure if it'll be a new borrowing or an amendment um to our to our previous authorization um and similarly um we had water main work that we authorized a million and so this is a several year project and so in terms of just being strategic about our borrowing we're going to ask for additional borrowing authorization that would allow us to sort of really plan out for the next several years and that way you don't have to borrow every year but we're actually borrowing for the larger project because they had phased it over four years I think when they presented um that water Capital plan to you all when you were talking about rates um also we'll be um asking for phase 14 and 15 of the MW um II program so we do that you know every other year about and so uh two years ago in may we had asked for that and that allows us to do um some work on our infrastructure um just and then we get into the bylaws so you had a presentation for establishing a local historic district which has been presented to you um so that's in there and then um the planning board needs to do a small cleanup on their site plan review um bylaw um and then they're doing the accessory dwelling unit that uh aligns with the state uh State program and then we have a an up dat um that's coming from the state and the federal government from FEMA they had updated their flood plane and that's just changing a couple of our tile and our Maps um and so we're just updating that and they are sort of standardizing that bylaw so the planning board will be holding uh hearings for that in the next several weeks um and then we'll have that with their recommendation and I believe that is it so I lost count so how about how many articles do we think um I actually haven't had on numbers but I think there's 17 okay okay okay uh and town meeting again is Wednesday May 7th May 7th okay great any questions comments from the board on that Claudia go ahead yeah I just have a question about the water treatment facility so the Oz Zone piece of that we completed didn't we the update for the ozone the update the filter no so we did get appr we got authorization we got a $4 million authorization and they started the design and the engineering for that and so we haven't actually implemented that okay the filter itself wasn't the filter itself like a million dollars is that no something like that it was um four million talking about the water no the the whole project was four million right and I I thought we were going to be completing that or starting it in this fall was there a delay or just timing or well they started with the engineering they did get so with that four part of that four million was design and and engineering and so they've done they've done all that um sort of working through that process and they were you know they're on the tail end of sort of going out to bid which is why the estimates have changed a bit okay and yeah and part of that is sort of just when you're actually thinking about implementation you know it the you want to make sure that we have some fil filtration throughout the process and so it's using some other pieces of the plant that we hadn't really anticipated that way there is no real disruption to service while we are doing the upgrade to the to the um to the ozone okay any other questions Claudia no thank you okay I had a quick question about that go didn't maybe I'm not remembering the right project and that's possible but wasn't wasn't hington paying for part of that too and we had authorized the 4 million but we were only paying 3 million of it is that I remembering it correctly they were uh they agreed I believe Michael 25% of the is it 20 or 25% of the project 2% and they they were going to pay 1 million and they had all the votes and everything okay so now because go ahead say so so so we had authorized 4 million we're going to spend 3 million is hoofington going to pay for 25% of whatever increased cost it would be that when I spoke to DPW that is the uh that is the Assumption they have to work that through because they did have to have a vote as well and so um but that is they're they were thinking that they're paying 25% of the overall C and we were sort of using that four million as the number to figure out how much they were going to pay and so yeah so the So the plan is to to authorize up to two million even though 2 million more even though we probably would only need a fraction of that because of the percentage that we'd have 1 million left over from hington from from that original 4 million plus I'm just trying to like yeah so I think if I remember correctly when we had the conversation to do the authorization for the full four million was partly because it's going to be reimbursed and so in order for us to sign the contract we actually have authorization for all of it and then hopkington reimburses us for the rest and so again I don't think we actually borrow for all of it we have the authorization to borrow for all of it and Michael correct me if I'm wrong on that but that's how I sort of remembered it yeah I believe you're right because that is how the operational costs work um in terms of the billing is uh so we we go ahead and pay and then we go ahead and we invoice hackington for their piece okay and so do we do you know so if we're saying we're authorizing up to 4 million but we're not spending all that or we're we're spending all that and then getting it back from hopkington so do we have to borrow for the four million and then do we take the money that we're getting from them and pay it down more quickly or like what's you know if we've borrowed four million I I'd hate for us to get the million and apply it to something else and not apply it and then not pay down this Bond or you know or now the potential six million yeah I don't yeah I don't think you I don't think he'd be able to do that I mean just to get that through Bond counsil would be that that would not work okay so then I think it though well maybe not maybe this isn't the meeting but it would be good to understand then you know we're if we're if we're authorizing 4 million and we Bond the four million because we have to spend the four million and then we get a million back to help pay for it what happens with that million dollars it can't just go to general fund it can't it should go someplace to be determined to use to pay down the bond right no I see what you're saying I see I I I it's not that I really I understand it's not that straightforward so that's so again maybe not for this meeting but it's something that we should talk about right if we're bonding the full four million but we're getting a million back we need to figure out what to do with that right it's similar you know I I keep talking to Paul about the potential funds we're getting back from you know for this the building projects right you know the potential $3 million have we bonded everything that we've spent for the schools and if so what are we going to do with this $3 million right so but again that could be another discussion okay okay any other questions regarding the articles for town meeting okay seeing none moving on um so we're getting into season for the town manager in Town Council evaluation process uh as with a lot of things this year the Year flew and Michael and I kept talking about it Claudia and I kept talking about it trying to create or get a new tool to evaluate Michael and to evaluate Town Council it has not been done so we are going to use the same tool that we've been using um and what I would say is we'll make sure it gets sent out to everybody and so the process is everyone completes the town manager's evaluation you then submit it to the town manager and review with him your evaluation I then as chair take all those evaluations compile them into one evaluation that then becomes our public that re I review the compiled uh evaluation with Michael and then that evaluation gets made public at a future meeting um I would like to recommend that we try to tie this up um and do it no later than our I think it's our only meeting in May so that gives us about two months to get that done so I'll work with Susan to get that evaluation form out um one thing is after we do the evaluation to move forward into next year uh again Claudia and I have been talking and Michael and I been talking that for the next year we're going to want to set like five goals for Michael so that doesn't happen have to happen until in June you know when we do our Retreat or something like that but just something to be thinking about um and then again trying to find a different evaluation form questions comments concerns I just one I just um last year if you remember I think we used a uh we put it we made it a digital version and I think it's a lot easier to deal with so I just yes yeah I remember that so hopefully we can just want to make sure we use that again we will I think for especially for you it's going to be a lot easier yeah yeah yeah so we'll have to get that and put you know find the blank one and get that out to everybody um and Makita if when you see have questions don't hesitate to reach out thank you you're welcome uh next up liquor compliance seminar this is happening on April 15th who wants to Michael you want to chat about that I mean it's pretty straightforward but if I I've lost my backup here okay I I can talk us through okay um so for Claudia and Makita I Brandy and Joe you've been aware about this Joe definitely so there is our Police Department puts on a liquor compliance seminar either every year or every other year for Ashland businesses that have liquor licenses and we as select board are invited to participate in this to sit and go through this training especially as the people who sign off on liquor licenses it's good to know some of these things and it is happening on Tuesday April 15th from 9 to 11 at the public safety building and the detail is in your packet and they just asked that you RSVP to Robert uh to officer arujo before the 1 of April so look at your calendars decide if you can do this I've done it I think once or twice It's really informative and as the the group that votes and approves liquor licenses especially with some of the stuff we do for Summers it's good to do so and Rob does a great job yeah as you yep can a test yep okay I have a question about it go ahead um thanks so so this training is it like is it kind of like tips training or like or is it it's not tips training tips is much more detailed this is really just talking about some of the public policy what you should consider as a store owner as a business owner who's selling alcohol I see um Joe do you have anything else attend is that store owners restaurants or is it just I forget if it's just store owners or restaurants but um and are they mandated to attend like once a year or is it just when they have new Personnel H that's a good question I don't I don't know that off hand uh Claudia great um I I so at least one representative owner manager employee from each establishment holding a liquor license is expected to attend and they receive a certificate well that's a driving Factor yeah yeah so it's yeah the the the Flyers has a lot of so they it doesn't look like it's mandatory but they are expected and I think they sort of track who has done it and highly encourage yes yes so okay uh next we have a review I don't do I don't know that we need to yes we do need to approve this so uh from our town clerk information on early voting and just voting Turtle voting totals um so uh it talks about what our history has been and uh you can always tell when there's not as many contested races because there is not as many votes uh so we have that information then she talks about nope those are minutes so it has the the dates and times so the town election is on May 20th from 8:00 a.m.

join Greenup Ashland in keeping our town beautiful volunteers will clean up public areas parks and streets you can also sign up for the adopt the street program to keep a specific Street litter-free year round visit Greenup as.org for more details

grants and scholarships are available applications are open for the baa Grant up to $4,000 the community Grant up to $1,500 and the ashin scholarship $2,000 deadline range from March 28th to May 1st

Uh, thank you so much for coming. My name is Beth Reynolds and I'm the economic development director and uh, director of community outreach for the town of Ashland. I have had uh, the pleasure of working with this fine gentleman here for many many years um, in my career here in Ashland. Um, and this is a fun one for sure. Although everything you do, Steve is fun. So we got Jose Leche in here. We've got uh, Dr. greens. We have Zeta fencing, Btown pickle ball. I mean, it's really quite something. This building has seen a huge transformation. Um, and we're so grateful. So, my role here in town, for those of you that don't know me and what I do, is to support our business community. Um, I like to attract new businesses and I really love keeping businesses here in town. So when we get to do a ribbon cutting like this and give everyone um that has put so much time, effort, money, love into buildings like this to show them this kind of outreach and out this pouring of support um is great and it's my favorite part of my job.