001All right, everyone. Since it is 7:05 or thereabouts, I'd like to get this regular meeting um of the Upper Perky School Board to order. First would be our pledge of allegiance. If you would stand, please. We moved it. What the heck? >> I pledge allegiance to the flag. [laughter] Fake this out. Really? All right. Mr. Bishop, could I have a roll call, please? >> Okay. Director McCormack >> here. >> Director Shmmet, >> I'm here. >> Director Chaani, >> director Cunningham >> here. >> Director McCarrick >> here. >> Director Fluki >> here. >> Director Prago >> here. >> Director Bieber >> here. >> And Director Penny Packer >> here. >> Okay. Thank you. I'd like to introduce our staff at the table here. So, we have Mr. Bishop, our business manager. Georgie Fischer is not here
002today. Uh Dr. Fina, our assistant superintendent, Kyle Summers, our esteemed council uh council today. Dr. Roach, and of course, our two lovely student um >> Thank you. Oh my gosh, it's going to be one of those days. I'm sorry. All right, I'll move on to the president's report. Uh, just a couple of things. Congratulations to our two new board members I see in the audience and Keith and myself. Um, will be, you know, it'll be interesting because tonight will be JP and Emily's last day. Um, the other the other I went to go to the Harlem Wizards on Friday night. That was a lot of fun. Thank you to the Ed Foundation for coordinating that and for the help for, you know, we had quite a few board members there and I think everyone had
003a great time. So, um, and then of course, last but not least, I really want to thank Emily and JP for their four years of service. Did an excellent job. I didn't know you when you started, but now I feel like you're my friends. And uh, hope you'll come back and visit us. But I know it won't be right away. So, if we give them We'd like to give them a round of applause. >> All right. And with that, I'll turn it over to Dr. Broo with the superintendent's report. You're up. >> Thank you very much. A little slow today. Hey, November superintendent report. Happy to uh to share some great things that are going on uh throughout the district. Get this. There we go. >> Slow it up. It's loading that long. >> It's
004It's super long. No, I'm just kidding. There we go. Okay. So, uh share a couple of the highlights we had. So, obviously a new unity day and unity movie night we had the night before. Sure. So, Unity Day and Unity movie day movie night the night before. We had a great turnout over a 100 uh families uh and students that participated in the movie night at the grand. So, thanks to Mr. Bashinsky the grant for hosting us as well as I had a great day throughout the uh the school district celebrating and continuing to to work on that. Today is world kindness day as well. So something to uh to reflect on. So really appreciate everyone's part uh participating in that. And then we had a red ribbon week continue to be supported by project
005live. We appreciate their support at our buildings as well as uh throughout the the community. Uh and I I don't know how many were there 50 or 100. I'm trying to think how many tulips uh were planted even out front here at the ed center um on uh that on the day before one of our meetings. So, we look forward to that coming up. But Project Lift continues to to support our schools uh and our community in in many ways. So, we appreciate their their support. This is the pictures from Fall Fest at the high school. Students after school uh working with um students with disabilities and and and general education students having a great afternoon uh and gearing up for uh for heading into Unifi Botchi as we're heading into that. But this was
006a nice event at the end of uh the day the other um the other week. So Fall Fest, we're already past our 50th day of school. So normally when we see 100 days, you see the students dressed up like really they look old. This is 50. So they're rocking the 50s. this these pictures are from Herford as they were celebrating the 50th day of school. Um so again it's hard to believe it's already that that far into the school year and then as was already mentioned the Harlem Wizards. So we did have a great time. I did score one basket so I was happy to be out there. I only shot twice. Once I made one I go I'm good. I don't even want to ruin the uh the percentage that was there. But really
007it was a great great event. um students, they really know how to get the students going and uh uh and it was a sellout even before the the first shot went up. The the tickets were sold. So, I know the uh Mrs. Hiligus sent out a nice uh email to everyone involved and and sharing some information. So, we'll have some up updates from the uh from the event coming soon, but it was really a a nice event. Appreciated all the staff being there helping out, as Mrs. Cunningham said, all the volunteers. Um it was a great great event. It was really nice to see everyone there. And there's a final picture of all the students that uh that were part part of the Whiz Kid nation that was there. Some of the Whiz Kids that
008you see there who got to do pregame warm-ups and halftime shots and stuff like that. So, they really had a great time. There was a a couple dancers, they brought all the moms down and they were dancing and had a contest and then they brought one dad out and he was really good dancer. I mean, he really really really kicked it. So, it was fun. It was great. Uh here we just had a we have our annual ministerium lunchon. So we we had just had that this week was hosted up at Herford. A lot of people in in the round at Herford, if you've been there looking up the architecture and Mr. Freeze did a great job hosting and Mrs. Germanario and her team had a fantastic lunch. But it's really a unique event, something
009that was here long before I was here in terms of perk and and just having um you know a lunch with the ministerian folks talking about and really the conversation Dr. Fina led a conversation really about how we continue to support our families because they're all our kids. Um, so we really appreciated uh appreciated that and not to embarrass her because she is here. It was Mrs. Shape's birthday yesterday, so we wanted to make sure that we did that. We won't sing this time, Sharon, but we did have the third grader sing to Sharon as well. So, uh, it was a great great event all around and we continue that relationship. Uh, and I, as I said to the uh, ministerium group last summer, we used our we used the ministerium group and they housed
010us for three different locations for our summer admin retreat to get out of this building and out of the buildings, but still stayed in the community. So we hope to continue that partnership just in that small front but really a great group of uh of people and conversations. One more time on parent teacher conferences because this is the one time all year that we have this time set aside. Hopefully any parents have already been communicated uh and know about the signups and different things that are there and I really appreciate the flexibility the partnership that we have with our teachers because if you look at the schedule there it's offset. So the parents that that are available in the morning that that those things can happen. Things that are available later at night if you
011work during the day, those conferences can happen. So the structure there is set up for uh to really try to meet the needs of our parents and uh and have those conversations. Another plug here for the Ed Foundation, the Spirit Store. I think it's closing fairly soon. But if you want to get some gear there for um you know, for the for the holidays that are coming up, again, all all all the money raised by the uh Ed Foundation, much like PTFS, funnels itself back to directly to our our students with teacher grants and and some of the other things that they're doing. We really want to continue to support the uh all those groups. American Education Week is coming up. So, you'll you'll hear more about celebrating uh public education in America. We want
012to continue to offer those opportunities and some insight. I know Mrs. Janowski's got some social media posts getting ready to go out and uh and really try to have focus at the buildings on on what's going on in the build in our schools. One last time, you'll you'll hear all about it much more detail on December 1st. Um, so I'm sorry, Emily and JP, but I will I'll I'll email you the information directly uh about the uh the innovation fair coming in February. So that's still still on the horizon and uh getting ready to uh to share that out. And then finally, we have our own thank you to Emily and JP uh for uh last day of board meetings. There you go. So as as a recognition, I'd like Emily and JP if you
013could stand up. Our students each have a plaque for you to celebrate your four years here. We can get a picture. Sharon, are you doing pictures? If you can do a picture, you want to go up with them. >> You guys want to head up to the microphone area there and we'll get a picture of you with your blacks. Thank you for your four years, your time. We really appreciate it. And I believe there's one more meeting that you guys are going to attend next week, right? >> You see? All right. Okay. [laughter] That's the end of my report. >> Well, thank you very much. We'll move on to uh Reagan and Ruth with our student representative to the board report. Okay, >> perfect. Okay. Um, winter sports uh, practices start tomorrow, Friday, November the
01414th. Tomorrow the 9th and 10th graders have an assembly sponsored by Project Live on the responsibility of technology and social media use. Um, there's a shout out to all four fall sports for their successful seasons, playoffs for certain teams, and individual success for athletes. Um, NHS induction is on Tuesday, le November 18th at 6:30 p.m. >> The Senator for a Day program takes place next Friday, the 21st, first at the Perkyman School, and this program is hosted by Senator Pennook. And the freshman business tours will take place next Tuesday and Wednesday, at many local businesses. The winter sports competition start the week after Thanksgiving. And of course, students are very excited about Thanksgiving break coming up. Thank you. >> Okay. Thank you, ladies. Uh now we'll move on to uh Mr. Summers and our solicitors
015report Sunshine Act announcements, please. >> Thank you, Madam President. Uh the board did meet in an executive session immediately prior to tonight's meeting for the purpose of discussing a tax assessment appeal matter as well as a matter of personnel involving an administrative employee. Um and by way of normal announcements, there are two public comment opportunities at tonight's meeting. Uh the first opportunity is to comment on items that are being voted upon on the agenda and then there's another opportunity at the end of the meeting to comment on other uh matters of concern that are or may come before the board. Uh the public comment opportunities are limited to three minutes per speaker and and you do need to sign up if you wish to um speak during those time periods. There are signup sheets available
016in the back of the room and they do need to be turned in prior to the start of the comment period. uh and they are turned in in the box that's located next to the screen. Uh and just as a reminder, any comments that are made during public speaking opportunities at tonight's meeting reflect the views of the speaker alone and do not represent the districts or the district's board of school directors. And that concludes my report. >> Okay, thank you. >> Okay, next we'll move on to presentations and discussion. And first we have distinguished service recognition awards. The fun stuff. >> Great. Thank you. So tonight we have the privilege of recognizing several members of the Upper Perky School District family who have recently retired and who are being honored with the distinguished service award.
017This recognition is among the district's highest honors celebrating individuals whose dedication, service, and commitment to our students and community have gone above and beyond expectations. Honores are selected each spring by a committee made up of school staff, former teachers, board members, and community representatives. Together they review nominations that reflect outstanding service. those who have made lasting contributions to the district, brought recognition to Upper Perkyan School District throughout their work, and served our community with distinction. Each honory's name will be added to the distinguished service pedestal or wall plaque at their respective school symbolizing their permanent place in the history of the district. During tonight's recognition, each will also receive an original student art. That's not accurate, right? No student art, correct? They will receive an award uh and a certificate from the school board as
018a token of appreciation. These individuals represent the heart of what makes up a perkyman special. These the relationships that they've built, the lives they've touched, and the examples they've set for all of us to continue to uh our important work. So, it's now my honor to have Dr. Fina is going to uh read off and and welcome our honores. Sorry, I have to stand sideways because I like to recognize um our our uh distinguished service staff. So, I'm going to make a correction here. Um so, the fourth and fifth grade center is actually uh Kyle Mirthth, who could not be with us this evening. Uh nor could Mike Cianetta uh who was the candidate from the high school. Uh but we do have the privilege of having three of our honores here this evening. And
019so I'm going to talk a little bit about each person and then ask them to come up and I know your colleagues might want to also get a photo with you but we want to make sure Bradley here's your chance. Um Sharon, you help too. Uh you know in order to to recognize them. Our first distinguished service recognition goes to Sue Coffee. This evening we are honored to recognize Sue Coffee whose career in Upper Perkyan School District has be has been defined by the deep care for students, creative instructional practices, and a steadfast commitment to the community. Sue's educational foundation began at Kutztown University where she completed her training in elementary and special education. She later continued to expand her professional expertise at Wilks University, earning a master's degree in curriculum. This preparation set the
020stage for her career grounded in strong instructional knowledge and a passion for helping every student succeed. Sue formerly began her service in the Upper Perkyan School District as a learning support teacher. First working with students in grades first through fourth grade at Marorrow and later students in 9th through 12th and then she moved into a learning support role at Marorrow and subsequently then at Herford where she transitioned into a general education classroom and taught grades 2 through four. Sue's ability to connect with children at all levels made her a trusted and beloved educator across every building. She concluded her career at Herford Elementary School where she made an especially lasting impact on students and her colleagues. Throughout her time at Upper Perk, Sue enriched school life well beyond her classroom. She led the reading Olympics
021for four years, supported wildlife science activities such as birds of prey festival, and fostered curiosity in her students through hands-on environmental learning. She helped lead and grow science experiences in cloud types, precipitation, and weather studies. One of her most memorable contributions was helping to bring trout in the classroom to the district. An interdisciplinary conservation focused program that became a treasured experience for every student who had the opportunity to participate. Sue's outstanding work earned her recognition from multiple environmental education organizations. Her honors included the Skookul Action Network Excellence in Education Award, recognition from the Percyan Watershed Conservancy as co-educator of the year, and a commendation from the McGomery County Science Teachers Association. These awards reflect her dedication to connecting students with in authentic environmental learning and stewardship. Her contributions extended into the broader community as well.
022Sue was an active upper handover parks and active in upper handover parks and recreation, supported upper perk girls softball league, and volunteered with the youth and family services and domestic violence programs. Her commitment to service has always reached far beyond the classroom. When reflecting on her fondness memories, Shu shared that some of the greatest joys came from watching the light bulbs go off for her students. moments when learning clicked and confidence grew. She also cherished the camaraderie with her colleagues, the laughter shared in the classrooms and hallways, and the unforgettable experiences of trout release days, scientific discovery, and the welltime occasional well-timed practical joke. I think that might be we'll keep that secret, but I see the eye contact. Uh Sue retired in in 24 and has embraced an active and joyful retirement with her
023husband who was also an honore. They have traveled throughout the United States, Costa Rica, and Ireland and continue to volunteer together in the Herford area supporting conservation and community programs. Their three grandchild their three grandchildren remain the greatest joys of their life. Sue enjoys reading, golfing, hiking, biking, gardening, and when possible, kaying. Sue, your dedication to students, your love of nature and learning, your unwavering kindness have left a powerful legacy in Upper Perky. We are grateful for your years of distinguished ser service and proud to honor you this evening. Our next distinguished service honore is Wanda Reed. Tonight we are honored to recognize you, Wanda, whose long career at Marorrow Elementary has made her an essential part of our community. Wanda began her time at Marorrow supporting students through read to success program where she
024helped young learners build confidence and foundational literacy skills. She later served in title one providing academic support to students who needed the benefit of additional instructional time. Wanda also worked in our computer lab helping students explore and strengthen their skills while assisting teachers with digital learning. Her steady presence, warm personality, and deep commitment to the school school community eventually led her to become Marboro's building secretary. A role which she truly became the heart of the school. Wana welcomed families, supported staff, and cared for students each day with patience, compassion, and a genuine love for her work. Her professionalism combined with her kindness made her a beloved member of the Marbor team. Wanda also contributed to the broader community through participation in Relay for Life, demonstrating her dedication to service beyond the school building. When reflecting
025on her fondest memories, Wanda recalls the joyful shared experiences she made at Marorrow, which made it always feel like a family. She loved dressing up for Halloween, joining colleagues in schoolwide fun that brought smiles to everyone, and she remembers sleepovers in the gym where you competed in scavenger hunts. Very nice. That laughter lasted late. One of the most unforgettable memories was climbing onto the school roof for its spectacular views. Wanda >> [laughter] >> We didn't hear that. Uh, a moment that she describes as unforgettable. Wanda retired in 2017, timed perfectly for the arrival of her first grandson. Since then, she has proudly embraced the role as full-time grandmother, a role she cherishes above all others. Today, both of her grandsons go to Marorrow Elementary, creating a special and meaningful connection to the same school that
026she has served so faithfully. In retirement, Wanda enjoys golf, pickle ball, time at the beach, and of course, cheering on her grandsons as they play soccer. These moments of joy, family, and connection reflect the same spirit she brought to Upper Perk. Wanda, your kindness, dedication, and love for students and staff of Marorrow have left a lasting legacy. We are grateful for your years of distinguished ser service and are proud to recognize you this evening. Our final honore this evening is Kelly Breninger. Tonight, we proudly recognize Kelly, whose remarkable 35 career within the Upper Perkyan School District has shaped the lives of countless students and staff. Kelly's journey as an educator began with a strong academic foundation. She earned a bachelor's of science and education from Millersville with a certification in special education. She continued her
027professional growth at Klitztown where she completed a master's of education with a certification as a reading specialist followed by an elementary certification in 1994. These accomplishments laid the groundwork for a career defined by expertise, compassion, and leadership. Kelly joined Upper Perkome in August of 1984, spending her entire career in the middle school, which is now the fourth and fifth grade center. She began as a learning support teacher working with students in grades 5 through eight across a v variety of program models, including the resource room, part-time classes, and fully inclusive settings. She later transitioned into regular education teaching sixth grade English and science and science until her retirement in 2019. Kelly's influence extended well beyond the classroom. She was instrumental in launching the district's inclusion program way back in 1995 and she went on to
028present her work at Kutztown University's middle level con conference. Her leadership touched many areas of school life, serving on the SAP team, the athletic hall of fame committee, the UPA executive board, the employee recognition committee, and none other than the distinguished service committee and as well as curriculum writing teams for reading, English, and science. A dedicated coach for 23 years, Kelly guided student athletes in field hockey, lacrosse, and basketball at both the middle and high school levels. Her accomplishments are truly extraordinary. Multiple Pottstown Mercury Coach of the Year and Philadelphia Enquire Coach of the Year honors, Summit Awards, coaching achievements, a membership in the National Field Hockey Coaches Association's 200 Victory Club. She was inducted into Millersville Athletic Hall of Fame in 2009 and the Upper Perkyoman High School Wall of Fame in 2016. Kelly
029has also poured her energy into the broader Upper Perk community, helping parents start the Upper Perk Sticks Club, creating the Upper Perk youth field hockey camp, and coaching the tribe indoor field hockey teams for winter and summer leagues. When reflecting on her career, Kelly shared that her greatest joy came from teaching and coaching exceptional students, witnessing their growth after long after graduation, and working in a district that values both academics and athletics. She deeply cherishes the friendships she formed with colleagues, many which continue today. Since retiring, Kelly and her husband Barry have enjoyed life in the vineyards where she serves as secretary of the community social club, help plans events, and travels. She enjoys reading, walking, watching sports, spending time with her family, and competing in a dart league. Kelly, your distinguished service, leadership, and
030unwavering commitment to young people has left a la lasting legacy on Upper Perk. We are honored to recognize you this evening. Shall we give you a minute? Are you going to stay or you can go if you'd like? >> I won't make you stay. >> Run quickly. >> Thank you so much. I always read in Sue Coffey's class um when it's Dr. Seuss week. So I love >> I did as well. She gave me the hardest book. >> Yeah. >> One time. >> I just asked her who sews Sue shoes because my grandson loves that book and I read it upside down. I'm getting pretty good at it. >> All right. All right. Back to work. All right. We'll move on to public comments on action items. And there were none. Uh, next we'll do
031the approval of the agenda for this evening. >> Motion. >> Second. Any discussion? All in favor? I. >> I. >> Okay. I was making sure you're still with us. >> Yeah, I'm there. >> Okay. Any opposed? Okay. Uh, next we'll move on to the approval of the October 9th schoolboard meeting minutes. >> Motion. >> Second. Any discussion? Hearing none. All in favor? I. I >> any opposed? Okay. Uh we don't have anything under old business. So we'll move on to new business. >> So Melanie, I'd like to make a motion to approve the personnel report in its entirety, which is the resignations, the appointments, and the leaves. >> Okay. Do I have a second? I'll second. Oh, surprise. Okay. All right. Um any discussion? Hearing none. All in favor? >> I. >> Any opposed? Okay.
032Uh, we'll move on to action items. >> So, I'd like to make a motion to approve action item A to adopt the attached accelerated budget opt- out resolution as per the recommendation of the finance committee. >> Okay. Do I have a second? >> Second. >> Okay. Uh, is there any discussion? >> And what does it really mean? >> What does it really mean? It means that we won't raise taxes above the act one. >> But what does that really mean? >> Ah, that means we uh So what do you mean? It doesn't mean anything yet because we didn't do it yet. Uh 42. Okay. Adjusted index is 4.2%. So we will not be moving above that. Hopefully we'll go well below that. >> Well, which really means something else. >> Yeah, I know it does.
033Uh got to let people know. >> All right. Well, I'll say it out loud then. So, because we're in two we're in two districts, I mean in two counties, uh we're subject to the something called the STEB ratio. >> And the STEB ratio is the state tax equalization board. And um next year's taxes, uh we always like to say zero equals something. So if we make a zero increase, um usually it's a couple of percent. Um some couple times it's been minus. So if we say zero, we're losing money. Um, so next year it is 0 equals 10%. So technically, and I'm saying this out loud, but I'm also going to provide that it's not going to be this. Uh, so technically next year our taxes could be the plus 10% and up to plus
0344.2%. So a total of 14.2%. And please don't have heart attacks about that because I'm pretty sure that we'll work under that. So, does that help? Feel better now. Okay. >> I don't feel better. >> No, I don't either. Yeah, I don't either. Believe me. >> But really, the opt out is saying we're not looking for the exceptions that are above the 4.2%. Having it down to there, separate from step, >> correct? >> That we're not looking to go above that straightforward minus step. >> Yeah, the 10% we'll have to talk about. So, okay. So, I have a motion and a second. Um I I would like to just add if you can hear me that at the last finance committee meeting we discussed that in depth. So if any community members want to investigate
035that um they can just look uh look or listen to the last um meeting that we had for finance because that we discussed that for a while. >> Yeah, we did. Thank you. You're right. We did and I'm sure we'll discuss it a lot more. All right. So I have a motion in a second. Is there any other comments, questions? Hearing none, all in favor? I >> I. >> Any opposed? Okay. So, uh, letter B, uh, we are we now have a Pennsylvania state budget. And so, I believe we don't have to we can have it on here as it is. Um, and do we actually need to vote on it then, Mr. Summers? >> Nope. The motion was was, you know, in the event that the budget was not passed, the board intended uh
036through the agenda tonight to adopt a resolution urging that to occur. Uh thankfully, yesterday the state budget was passed. So there's obviously no need to encourage the assembly to do something they've already done. So you could just move on to uh item C. >> I think it may have passed because they heard this was on there here at Upper Park. >> They were scared. They were scared. >> Okay. All right. So we'll move on to letter C. Letter C. So, my I'd like to make a motion to approve letter C uh to re reauthorize the radiological emergency response plan. Motion or u action item D to approve a 5-year contract with P school for enrollment to allow for additional language Spanish. Um action item E to approve the proposal from Skyward for a flat file
037export and action item F to approve the following Christ staff for the 2526 school year. >> Okay. Do I have a second? Second. >> Okay. Is there any discussion? >> The response plan is that that's happening the 18th, right? >> Correct. We well we have a a drill with uh in across all the school districts as well as municipalities that are in the plume zone of libert. >> What's that going to look like? >> It is the drill itself. >> What h what will it look like for us? >> Okay. So I will be here in my office. Mr. Robbach will be in his office. Mr. Malone will be in her office. Mr. Freeze at her will be in his office. And in each of our offices and I don't know everyone's but in my
038office there's a member of FEMA and a member of FEMA. uh FEMA and PEMA, yeah, Pennsylvania, uh monitoring us, going back and forth. So, we're listening to the radio uh as well as all other school districts that are in that plume zone. Uh and they go through and from Limmerch, uh they go ahead and say, "Okay, we have a site emergency. This is there's a leak in tower one. What do you do?" So, we have a book to go through. We work through it like it's like a tabletop exercise all the way through to evacuating all students. All the way through to making sure that uh if uh mocking through exercises, I'm asking Mrs. Malone, how many buses? I'm asking Mr. Freeze, how many students? Herford was selected this year. Um, so we run it.
039It's about a 2-hour exercise all the way through getting students back home. And sometimes depending upon how they take the exercise, it's a it's a shelter in place. It could be going where um, you know, it's midday, there's minimal buses and we have to take people to a loading place outside the zone to regroup and reunify. So, it's again, it's all just tabletop. It's all exercises, but they're watching us and monitoring us and then adjusting this plan afterwards uh to make sure that it that it uh that it makes sense for what what what's going through there. >> Yeah, it's fascinating. I was at Perk Valley when uh 2011 hit and or 2000 when you know the incident happened and we had to also come up with uh 911. We also had to come up
040with uh a plan for uh after school events and what happens if there's an afterchool event and something happens and um so I don't know if we're looking into something like that if that is you know consideration but something to think about. Um but to your point um kids will actually be evacuated. >> No no it's all just tabletop. There's no, we're not actually physically moving. It's all the kind of adults and making sure Mrs. Malone will be talking with Christ. How many buses do we have? How many buses do we need? So, they select one school. This, ironically, the only school that we have in the Plume zone is Marbor. This this one herford is was selected. So, we go through the exercise from there. Now, no one no students the students will know
041nothing's even going on. >> Yeah. It's all it's all happening um in that sense on paper, but it but um you know it's we're all on the on the um walkie-talkies going back and forth making sure checking in at all places and uh every time it's different. Sometimes it goes quicker, sometimes it's just a couple of steps. Um and you got to react to what's going on and we have a a manual to work ourselves through there. >> Thank you. um feedback >> letters D and E and you know he brought this up the last time every month we're seeing extra costs for our school. >> If I'm not mistaken though the these costs were accounted for in the budget. Is that correct? >> So um I I'm happy to speak to Glad you asked
042this question. Um so as part of our adoption of powers school we did select the enrollment um and we believed it would offer multilingual uh enrollment documentation for families non-English-speaking families uh we discovered as we were working uh on the enrollment uh that it did not and so you know out of respect for our our families that are non-English-speaking uh we felt very strongly and and Spanish is the largest uh second language in our community that we needed to provide those families with uh native language enrollment documents. Uh we do have other languages in the district uh but there are far fewer and so we're starting with Spanish um for enrollment. The second uh part is we've been working uh the trans transitioning our student information system means that we can't get rid of what
043is in Skyward for historical purposes. So all of that information has to be mapped to P school. What we learned is um P uh Skyward could export that data but we don't have any way to read it. And so what you see in the 1640 is a data export that keeps what is in Skyward in a readable format so we can use it. Right? So things like transcript data, course data, all of that that we we are required to keep and and put on students, you know, transcripts and files. Um, and so this is the most coste effective way for us to do that. We did not anticipate we would have to do that. I don't know, Mr. Roth, if you want to add or if that's >> Do you think there's anything else that
044we didn't anticipate that we're going to have to deal with? >> I would love to say no. Uh, but I mean that would be disingenuous, Director Penny Packer, because this is our first mig migration away from a a student information system. Um, it is it is a hefty task. Um, so I'm hopeful the answer is no. There may be a reoccurring cost if we add languages. Um, and that's the reality of the matter as we see. We will say we already know we may need another flat file export towards the end of the process heading into that that school year >> heading into the the summer let's say with the update going on >> and that'll probably be another additional cost. >> Thank you. Um, so last, yes. Um, if you can hear me, last
045year I think we approved like $7,000 for a program with the MCIU that covered translation services. Um, would that possibly cover this or no? >> So, we yes, the answer is um for our less commonly spoken languages, we would likely re uh leverage those resources. I don't know why I'm staring at the microphone instead of talking. Um but but we have >> I see you staring at me. [laughter] >> Okay, great. That makes me feel better. >> Um however, you know, we do online digital enrollment and so when we don't have the accessibility for families, non non-native speaking families, they will have to come in here and we will have to manually translate those documents. And so truthfully, we are trying to be linguistically diverse and meet our families where they are. And so, you
046know, we do have other languages that we will likely have to bring them in and use those transcription services um into their native language. So, it's not that we're not using that, it's just we're building into our enrollment product, Spanish language enrollment forms. Thank you, Andrea. >> Come on up, Jim. >> Um, Mr. Schmidt, um, you're you're correct. Um, some of the translation will actually happen here or through other tools. One of the key things about this, and it's hard to to decipher, but one of the tools is they actually P school actually puts up almost a second occurrence of the system. So the the monies involved here are to host that Spanish version of that enrollment system. If there was a Ukrainian one there, there'd be charges. So every one that you put up
047and we chose the most significant one. So although there's a lot of effort that'll go into the translation of the documents and the words, this is this cost is really at the bottom line and um to clarify what Dr. Fina was saying. Okay. >> Thanks, Jim. >> Thank you, Jim. Uh, any other questions, Trina? >> No. Thank you so much. >> Okay. Anyone else? >> All right. So, we have a we have a motion in a second. Um, discussion over. Uh, all in favor? I >> Trina. >> I'm gonna vote no. I'm gonna vote no on that. Thank you. >> Yep. Okay. And so I think that covers everyone then. All right. So motions do pass and that's it for action items. We're going to move to new followup items which I don't believe >>
048actually. Did you approve F the Christ? >> Yep. Uh >> oh. Um my no was just for the Spanish. >> The motion that was presented was for all items C through F. So the vote was approving item C through F. That vote passed 8 to one, >> right? >> Oh, okay. And you can't separate it. That's fine. That's fine. >> Okay. >> Thank you. >> All righty. I don't see that we have any new follow-up items. Um, we have one public comment. Uh, Sally. Sally Worth. And make sure you turn the the microphone on, please. Thank you. Yes. >> Yes. >> Okay. I support Trina Char Schmidt's recommendation to designate a wear red for respect day. Um, respect is is a positive feeling of admiration and high regard for another person, their abilities or beliefs
049shown through polite, consideration, considerate and dutyful behavior. It involves accepting people for who they are even when you disagree with them and recognizing their inherent worth and feelings. It is not about controlling someone but about honoring their autonomy at worth. Um this topic is personal for me. Um [clears throat] even I as an adult have had a lesson in how important it is for me to treat my husband with respect. John and I weren't getting along. Constant bickering, arguing. So I read in the Bible that a wife is to respect her husband. Okay. So I made the decision. I am going to respect this man whether I agree with him or not. Almost immediately the atmosphere in the home changed to peace and harmony. And then another example, um Lexi, my 22year-old granddaughter, a graduate
050of North Carolina University who works in their fundraising department. Okay. We were eating at a restaurant and I inquired of her, uh, were there any demonstrations against Israel or Jewish students and I just opened my mouth to just maybe share a thought. And before I could even speak, she stated, "I know what you were going to say and I don't want to hear it." She stood up and walked out of the restaurant. My question was never answered. So, where did she get her opinion? Okay. November 10th, a significant protest occurred at the University of California, Berkeley, against a Turning Point USA event. Agitators were angry because the university allowed these people to speak. Politicians from both parties are speaking disrespectfully towards members of the other party. A wear red for respect day would be a
051wonderful opportunity to remind all of us the importance of treating others with respect. Thank you. >> Should I turn this off? >> Yes, please. >> Thanks, Sally. Uh, that was the only public comment I had, so we'll turn to board comments. Who's up? >> I'll go first. Um, Trina, do did you have anything you wanted to say before JP and I go? >> Um, sure. I was just going to say thank you, Sally. I'm still working on talking about that um with maybe some committees and see if we could get something like that on the table. I realize that SEAL addresses some portion of that, but um yeah, I think it would be reasonable to include something along the lines of like respectful discourse and a discussion of that and a focus on that with
052students. So, thank you Sally for coming forward and any community members who come forward with comments. I I admire your bravery in doing that. And I um additionally want to also thank Emily and JP for their service. So, um thank you Okay, thanks Trina. Um, Emily, you're up. >> Yeah, I just uh I'll just be quick. I have a a very quick thank you, but as my time on the school board comes to an end, I just wanted to make sure that I said thank you to the students, staff, and the families for the opportunity to serve over the past four years. To the administration who continue to work so hard for our students and our community, thank you so much for what you do every day. There is so much more that goes into
053your roles that one can't begin to understand until you're in this position. And to the amazing teachers who are giving so much time and energy to shaping these students every day. Thank you. To my two wonderful and amazing daughters, thank you for the support while I've been away a few nights a week for the past four years. I hope I've made you proud and shown you how important it is to give back, to get involved, and to make a difference in your community. As a proud Upper PK alum, it has been especially meaningful to give back to the district that has shaped so much of who I am today. Walking the same halls, cheering on our teams, and seeing new generations of students create their own memories here has been really special. It's been a
054rewarding spir rewarding experience to work with so many dedicated people who truly care about our schools and our kids. From the many, many meetings to celebrating student achievements, I've learned so much and have been constantly reminded how special the Upper Park community is. I'm proud of what we've accomplished together, supporting our teachers, expanding opportunities for students, and making decisions that always keep kids at the center. It wasn't always easy, but it was worth it. To those who reached out, asked questions, shared ideas, or simply showed up, thank you. Your voices matter, and they make a difference. And although my time on the board is wrapping up, I'll always be cheering for Upper Perk and the amazing things still to come. I'm excited to see what this new board will be able to accomp accomplish. Good
055luck and thank you again. Thank you. >> JP, are you up? >> I guess so. >> Okay. So, I I wrote mine down um because as I said during my campaign four years ago, I'm an engineer. I'm good with numbers, not with words. So, for everyone's sake, I figured it best to have a plan tonight. Um when I first joined the board, one of the small things I started doing was giving shoutouts at the end of our meetings. It wasn't anything big, mostly a way to highlight the good things happening in our district, to recognize teachers and staff who went above and beyond, and to celebrate students who stood out for their hard work or accomplishments. Because let's face it, most people notice the problems first. So, I figured it's only right that I end
056my last meeting the same way. I want to give a big shout out to our administration. You deal with more than people will ever realize. You're often the first to be criticized and the last to be thanked. But the truth is, you're the ones who keep everything moving. You care deeply about the students. You take the tough calls. And you do it all with professionalism and heart. I've seen that up close and it deserves to be recognized. Serving on this board is a lot of work. Over the past four years, I've had the privilege of attending a lot of meetings. Roughly 288, give or take. [clears throat] Yeah. [laughter] Uhhuh. 288 meetings over four years. Enough time to watch every episode of Ted Lasso 10 times and still have time to practice my thoughtful thoughtful
057nod. That's a lot of time in rooms talking about what's best for our students. We spend time reading countless countless documents and emails, debating tough topics, and working through many the many layers there are to every decision. It's been challenging at times, but it's also been one of the more rewarding things I've done. I've learned a lot about how schools operate, how people collaborate, and how sometimes personal perspectives or priorities can make things challenging. It's not always easy work, and it's not always neat. But that's the reality of serving in a role like this. What matters most is keeping students at the center of every decision. To the newly elected members, congratulations and welcome. My best advice is simple. Listen more than you talk. Ask questions even when you think you already know the answer.
058And remember that you'll never regret doing what's best for the kids. There will be pressure, opinions, and plenty of noise. But if you stay focused on students, you'll find your footing. To those continuing on, keep supporting one another and stay grounded in why you're here. You won't make everyone happy. In fact, that's probably a good sign that you're doing something right. But if your choices put students first, you're doing what you came here to do. As I wrap up my time here, I'm very aware that my name will soon be forgotten, and that's exactly how it should be. This job isn't about any one person. You're not here to make a name for yourself. You're here to make decisions that matter for students and for the district. The impact isn't in the recognition, it's in
059the results. I'm grateful for have the chance to have served, to have learned, and to have worked along alongside so many people who deeply care about the district and its students. It's been a privilege, and I thank you all for it. >> Very nice. Do we have any other any other board comments? >> All right, go. >> Go ahead. >> I'd just like to say thank you to Emily and JP for the past few years. It's been enjoyable. It's been fun. Uh it's been interesting. There's probably a half dozen other adjectives we can throw around, you know. Um but you have always been focused on what is good for the students and the district. So, thank you. And I was proud to see you guys finally take over the first and second in motions. I
060didn't have to do a damn thing tonight. Thank you. >> All right. Anyone else? That said, I'll make a motion to adjurnn. Thank you. >> I'll second it. >> Okay. Good idea. Any discussion? >> No. >> All right. All in favor? >> I. >> Any oppose? Okay. Motion passes. >> Meeting obj.