001Call to order this regular meeting of the Torington Board of Education at 5:32 p.m. If everyone could please rise for the Pledge of Allegiance. The flag is above the door behind you. I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. [clears throat] >> Thank you. And when you are ready, Miss Conway, call the role. >> Okay. Uh, Mr. Burgerer >> here. >> Miss Conway here. >> Mr. Corey >> here. >> Mr. Cronin >> here. >> Mr. Mr. Ukalo is excused. Mr. Kiscoco >> here. >> Mr. Knight, >> Mr. Klesha >> here. >> Mr. Putnham >> here. >> Miss Cleo >> here. >> Mayor Spino or representative. >> Dr. Baker >> here. >> Miss
002Ferguson >> here. >> Miss Lobby >> here. >> Mr. Pgola >> here. >> Miss Schulty >> here. Miss Beans, >> excused >> here. >> Oh, my apologies. >> And Mr. Wilson >> here. >> Thank you. Uh, we have next the approval of the agenda. I would just be seeking one amendment. We'll call item 8, uh, G10. It'll be the meeting schedule for, uh, the next year. Um, the one you have in front of you, it says 2025, but we mean 2026. uh it was put together a little bit quickly earlier. Um so we'll just go over the meeting schedule so we can send that to the city before the end of the month. And other than that, that's the only amendment I'm seeking. So I will hear a motion on the agenda if there is
003one. >> Is it? >> Is there a second? >> Second. Uh thank you. Any discussion hearing? Hear none. All those in favor please say I. >> Any opposed? Okay. Our agenda is adopted. We have next school community service and public participation. Is anyone signed up to address the board? Is there anyone here who would care to address the board? Okay, then we'll pass right through that and go to the best part of our meeting, the part that you're all here for. Uh, our recognitions for our students and employees. >> Good evening. Thank you, Mr. Corey. And I would agree this is the highlight. We have a lot of recognitions tonight. We have a lot of wonderful students. But we're going to start tonight with Vogle Wetmore. Uh, Principal Pay, if you come on down. It
004says, "Oh, now you can hear me. Good evening everyone. We are here to recognize Samantha and her teacher Miss Olette is going to read a little something about her. Hello everyone. Samantha is a second grade student at Bogle Wet School. We chose this student be because she is consistently safe, responsible, and respectful. She sets a great example for her classmates every day. She comes in every day with a smile on her face and is ready to learn as soon as you walk through that door. Samantha sets the examples. Sorry. Samantha sets examples for a >> conscientious learner. She is kind, curious, and is always ready to learn. She tries her best even when work feels challenging. She doesn't give up. She listens carefully to directions and she raises her hand to share her ideas. She
005follows classrooms expectations. She stays focused on her work and she's always trying her best in all of the subjects. Samantha takes her pride in her work and will ask questions even when you're unsure. I am so glad I got to know and work with Samantha. Keep up the awesome work you do at Vogle Bmore. [applause] >> [applause] >> Just our next recognition will be from Fast Academy, Dr. Torres. I have one student that just was pulling in. Um, so hopefully they'll be arriving in a second. But tonight I'm proud to recognize three students, um, outstanding students at Fast Academy. Giovani Rosado, who could not make it tonight. Um, Caleb Sarmento, not sure if he's here, [snorts] um, and Hayden Shatz, should be walking in momentarily, for their exceptional leadership, commitment, and service to our school
006community. These students have gone above and beyond by dedicating many hours and spending time after school to help design and set up an area of the building that we're calling our Blue Lounge. It's a multi-purpose space that supports student wellness and positive school culture. They have worked tirelessly to build equipment, prepare the room for student use, and will be staying after again soon to help paint and further beautify the space at Fast Academy. This [snorts] space plays an important role by promoting physical activity and well-being while also serving a meaningful component of our PBIS system. The color blue represents the highest level on our points in level system that's sustained through positive behavior. And it's no coincidence that Giovani, Caleb, and Hayden have all achieved this level themselves through consistent responsibility, respect, and strong attendance
007by achieving blue level with Caleb taking an additional step in earning off point sheet status and Giovani and Hayden coming following close behind. Their efforts reflect far more than just hours logged. They've demonstrated pride in their school, leadership amongst their peers, and a genuine commitment to giving back. We're incredibly grateful for their dedication and are proud to recognize them this evening. Thank you. [applause] >> Thank you. >> I shared that if they do come, since they're in the parking lot, we will give them their photo op if the board is okay with that. Uh, Principal Klein from the intermediate school. Thank you, Mr. Wilson, and thank the board tonight for our opportunity to present our student leadership. um students at TIS. Our student leaders have been active members of our community and they've been doing
008some great work in terms of some community service projects. Um and I couldn't let Miss Kulo have all the fun with doing so many awards all on one night. Um so I've got 42 to rattle off today, but I did want to bring up Mr. Mart to speak about our student leadership as well. Um because it plays an integral role of what we do at our building. Mhm. >> Uh so our student leadership members were selected through a rigorous process that included an application uh teacher recommendation and then also speeches and elections in their classroom. Uh so far we did a food drive around the holidays to collect uh food to help uh make sure the stock the shelves were stocked uh ahead of our winter break. Uh students in uh fourth grade will be
009planning uh fundraising efforts around the St. Jude uh uh teleathon coming up in February and March and then our sixth grade will be doing another uh food drive towards the end of the year. >> Thank you. Um we I appreciate all of our families, grandparents, and all of our siblings coming out tonight. Um if I mispronounce any of these 42 names, I duly apologize. These are kids who don't typically reg uh come down to the office, if you know what I mean. Um, so in fourth grade we have Nico Noak, CC Roach, and when you hear your name, come on up. Kiddos [applause] Claire McDonald. Why don't we give them the awards >> Later. >> Yeah. >> Why don't you for the picture? Gala Bangz, Maya Wei, Natalie Maldonado, Finn Russell, Cheyenne Holstead, Caleb Lawat,
010Satie Kleski, Journey Johnson, Ben Rosado, Gianna Murray, Isabelle Remlard, Maddox Buckland. In fifth grade, we've got Jeremy Vasquez Vega, Mariana Bishop, Eleanor Williams, Adam Tran, Emma Orana Orina, Christian Stoy, Anson Chen, Aubrey Muscarelloo, Lovely Sanchez, Angel Shei, Sophia Nano, Miles Verbex, Julian Gri, Emily, and in sixth grade we have Emily Putnham, Aliana Truhart, Neo Ramadani, Gianna Johnson, Miguel Puerta, Gary Tolman, Dylan Schroeder, >> Kayla Cox, Isa Smith, Nora Kovac, Ellie Duman, Chloe Janelle, Eric Adams, Gavin Morrison, and Briana Ramenani. Thank you guys. [applause] >> Guys, squeeze. You guys double up. Do you look smile? I don't see her behind. >> Great job, kiddos. Thank you guys. [applause] >> Where are you going? >> Whatever. and from the high school, Miss Sullivan. >> Good evening, everyone. I'd like to introduce senior Kajja Frasier. On paper, senior
011Kajja Frasier looks like one of our many outstanding high achieving students. And she is an honor student taking multiple Yukon courses, a reporter for the Raider Report, president of the senior class, and a dedicated volunteer with the Torington Youth Services Bureau. However, Kajja stands out. She has not simply stepped into these roles. She has risen into them, earning each one through her own initiative, perseverance, and unwavering commitment to community. She embodies the ths motto, what you do, do well, and she makes Torington High School a better place. Kajja came to the US in 2014 and arrived in Torington just as she was beginning middle school, navigating a new country, a new culture, and a new community. Instead of simply surviving these transitions, she chose to fully invest herself in this school in this town. Her
012involvement is not about resume building. She is an advocate who believes deeply in community and works tirelessly to build spaces where others feel seen, supported, and valued. This led her to found and lead our Black Student Union, empowering her classmates toward leadership and service. She also challenges herself academically, consistently choosing rigor over comfort. She never coasts. She steps forward, leans in, and rises to every challenge. Staff consistently describe Kajja as enthusiastic, welcoming, uplifting, and deeply receptive to feedback. She brings light, energy, and purpose into every space she enters. Kajena's journey reflects resilience, leadership, and heart. And she represents the very best of Torington High School. And we are incredibly proud to recognize her tonight. [applause] [applause] >> You got to put it out. Yeah. [applause] What do you think? I [snorts] don't see her. >>
013Okay. Congratulations to everyone recognized. Um, we're about to dive into a lot of boring stuff. So, if you're passionate about local government, you're more than welcome to stay, but by no means should you feel obligated. Um, we have next our student representatives report. We Is that you guys? So, uh, come on up to the table here. >> We have them up at this one. >> Oh, over here. Oh, I'm sorry. Up there. We chang They changed it up on me. >> We did. Curve. Okay. Good evening members of the board of education, administrators, staff, families, and community me members. My name is Kajita Fraser >> and my name is Cheyenne Chen. We're excited to share some highlights from Torington High School. >> This December, Torington High School hosted our first annual holiday spirit project, a
014community event focused on inclusion and giving back. The giving back families enjoyed activities like cookie decorating, face painting, and harsh horsedrawn carriage rides along with food and treats donated by local businesses. Gifts and gift cards were also distributed to students and families in need. It was inspiring to see students, staff, volunteers, and community members come together to celebrate and support one another. >> We'd like to congratulate all students on successfully completing midterm exams. As we begin marking period 3, we're proud of the hard work and perseverance our students have shown and excited to start the new quarter strong. Students are reminded that technology must be kept away until the end of the school day. Cell phones must be locked in yonder pouches. Wireless headphones are not permitted. And school issued laptops must remain in their
015protective cases. These expectations help create a focused and respectful learning environment for everyone. We are proud to recognize seniors Brendan Cascula and Andrea Chuva who earned full scholarships through the National Quest program. Their achievements reflect academic excellence, leadership, and perseverance. Their success is a proud moment for the Torington High School community. During staff underground spirit week, teachers surprised students by coordinating outfits throughout the week. The playful mysteries sparked curiosity and laughter across campus and helped build school spirit. Graduation regalia orders are now open and must be submitted by April 1st. Seniors also have the opportunity to explore careers in the trades through hands-on training and certifications offered during school day. Interested students should see their guidance their school counselor for more information. Five Torington High School students were selected to participate in future bankers program
016through virtual instruction and hands-on experiences. Students are building financial knowledge, career skills, and professional confidence. Torington High School JROTC cadets advanced to level two of the national leadership and academic bowl competition, ranking in the top 50% of teams nationwide. Their success reflects strong leadership, academic skills, and dedication. In English classes, seniors completed multidia artist projects that combined research, creativity, and presentation skills. The school newspaper has expanded into podcasting and investigative reporting, while elective classes are using project-based learning to help students demonstrate their skills in meaningful ways. >> Science students are exploring topics like landforms, astrophysics, and extreme weather while also taking part in hands-on engineering challenges. Upcoming experiences include include visiting Yukon's geology department and even a trip to the Yukon dairy bar. >> Overall, December was a month filled of learning, leadership, and community
017at Torington High School. >> Thank you for the opportunity to share these highlights. We are proud to be Raiders. [applause] >> Thank you both. And same same invitation of course to both of you. you're more than welcome to stay for all of the fun legislating we're about to do, but by no means should you feel obligated. Um, so we will next hear from the superintendent. Take it away, Mr. Wilson. >> Good evening. Um, a couple of things to share with the board this evening. U prior to going for holiday break, it's been that long since we've seen the board. All of the central office cabinet members proudly served lunch to all of our students in each of our buildings. I know we had a great time doing it and I think our students enjoyed seeing
018us as well. Rumor has it some central office members were able to give out cookies uh while others weren't. I don't know who fixed that but Miss Gagnon isn't here so we could take that up with her. Uh our administrators have all been working very hard holding all of their midyear conferences with their teachers as well as our central office cabinet members have been holding their midyear meetings as well. So, we're continuing to work hard to make sure that our midyear conferences are taking place. My entire cabinet has continued to be visible in each and every one of our schools in order to witness all of the hard work and dedication of both our teachers and our students daily. It is a highlight for us to get out of central office and to get into
019the classrooms. Obviously, very easy for TMS and ths, but to visit the other buildings as well is definitely a highlight. Um, Miss Lavy, Mrs. Ferguson, Miss Schulty, Mr. Pragola, Miss Vian, Miss Gagnen, Dr. Baker, and myself have been working extremely hard on the budget that we will recommend to the board of education. A copy of this budget will be sent out, as all know, on Friday, to all of the members in order for all of you to review. So, we're very excited about that. Many, many, countless hours have been devoted to that. Our student athletes, musicians, and drama members continue to shine, and we are very proud of them. I can tell you I've been to several games in the new gym and the games have been amazing. The hard work, the teamwork, the effort.
020Um, very proud of our student athletes and we do have Frozen coming up as well in February. So proud of that. This week we have our spelling bee on Friday uh at TMS. It's been a tradition. Um, we definitely cabinet members go and we try our best to spell the words, some better than others, but it is definitely a highlight for all of us to go and to cheer our students on. In February, I have the honor of representing Torington at the AASA National Superintendence Conference where I've been asked to be a speaker. I'm very proud of that and I will be sure to make Torington proud and that is what I have this evening. >> Excellent. Thank you, Mr. Wilson. Any questions for the superintendent from the board? You know, for a for a
021free lunch, I'll let our high school students humiliate me at the spelling be. It's a low price. Um, we next have the human resources report. Take it away, Kim. >> Oh, Dr. Torres, did you do you have a student to recognize for us? Take it away. Okay. Where were we? Oh, we were at the human resources report. All right. Now it's yours, Kim. >> Okay. Thank you very much. Um, so you have my HR report for the month. Uh, you can see that our vacancies for January. Uh, we for when I did the report, we had two vacancies, but I am pleased to say that the grade two vacancy has been filled. So, we really are only at the speech and language pathologist. And then for our classified vacancies, we continue to have a few
022paras. Um, we do have the one ASO vacancy, uh, the same support staff vacancies that we've had for a couple of months that we're still trying to source candidates, and a couple of cafeteria workers. And we actually have filled one of those cafeteria worker positions as well. So, we are trending down from where we were at this time last year. So, that's always good. Um, the exciting news, it continues to be our substitute fill rates. We were at 82% for December which is phenomenal and continue to be in the 60s uh for the PAR educators. So both of those numbers are trending significantly over where we were even year to date at this time last year. And our absences are also trending slightly down from where we were at this time last year. Um teachers
023is just a little bit down. Par educators is actually over two percentage points down from where it was um at this time last year. So that's very exciting. Um, with respect to our initiatives, uh, we have been sending out interest communications for our two residency programs that we, uh, facilitate through Torington. Um, and we do have candidates that are attending those info sessions. So, um, I will be excited to present, uh, where we land with as far as our candidates for next year. We are in full swing with office hours in January. We do have one that we had to postpone due to the weather this week. So, we will be rescheduling the intermediate school shortly. So don't worry, we will be there. Um we did publish our very first HR newsletter, the Torington Team
024Line. Um we will publish that quarterly just to kind of give information to our employees that we think is valuable and uh share updates and links and best practices and wellness tips. So we're really excited about that. And we did administer the PAR pathways exam for some of our paras. And we held uh team mentor training for our for new mentors in the district. Um, and then last but not least, uh, we did distribute the attendance incentives for quarter 2. So, we've been able to get all of that done this month. Uh, as far as wellness goes, we had the massage chairs in December, and I think those were very wellreceived as always. And, uh, we are in the middle halfway point of our online stress management webinar series that started on January 5th, and
025it's an eight-week series, so we have four weeks left of that. >> Are there any questions about page one? Uh just really quick. >> Sure. >> Um so I know what everything else is. What are the two support staff positions that are open? >> Yes. Uh one is an athletic trainer and the other one is a technology position. >> Great. Thank you. That's all I got. Any other questions? >> Okay. Uh so on page two, uh same as always, you have the comparative analysis of uh the substitutes in the district for ESS versus Torington. Um you can continue to see that the percentage of jobs filled by the Torington public schools um you know 33% and 15% which tells us that our ESS partners are doing a phenomenal job of trying to find us candidates.
026I did actually hear from our representative that um they actually had an influx of candidates over the winter recess. So they've been able to onboard some of them and continue to increase our pool of substitutes for teachers and prep for Paris. Um, you do have the breakdown of the uh absence reasons and you can see that the sick daily continues to be really what is driving our absence rates and our annual turnover. I will entertain any questions. >> I have a question. I'm wondering what do we do to retain our subs? Because in talking with some of our former subs, we've lost several uh who have moved over to Oliver Wilk. So we have tried to maintain a competitive salary analysis like we have really made sure that our rates are competitive with other people.
027We've also made sure with ESS that we have the training. I think the other piece is what we do with our retirement incentive. That certainly helps us maintain a large pool of substitutes. And really right now our substitute fill rates are trending about 20% higher than most other districts. So, what do you think the reason is that we lost uh several um several of these subs to across the street? >> Yeah, I I don't know if they were ESS. I could certainly, you know, see if ESS has data on that and you know, with exit interviews. Um but if if they're not ESS, I don't know that we'd be able to determine what that reason is. Um this is the first time I've heard that that was an issue. So, but I can certainly look
028more [music] into that. >> That'd be great. Thank you. Okay. >> Now, ESS is an agency that places sort of all over, right? Like lots of school districts have moved over to them. Um, do we know if the state technical school system also works with them? >> I'm not sure. At last, I knew they didn't, but I know they have picked up a lot of other districts recently. So, I I don't know that for sure. So, that's why I would have to look into that. >> Okay. >> Um, if they if they didn't, I don't know that we'd be able to get that information. Right. That that's why I ask because it's a lot easier to figure it out because sometimes it's just the person they don't have to leave the agency and they just
029go to a school they like. Maybe they like subbing in the shops. >> But if they're not with the same agency, then it's >> there are also many subs that work for multiple agencies. They work for ESS, they work for Kelly Services, they they so so even though they've signed up to work for one district with a different agency, they might be kind of working for both agencies. >> Okay. Thank you. Any other questions? Okay, thank you very much. Uh, we next have make sure we didn't change the order. The special education report. Take it away, Dr. Baker. >> Good evening. Thank you. Um, to review the report that we have in terms of our categories, we're remaining um, steadfast in a similar position as to where we've been. The um total category in terms
030of all of our students was an increase of 12 students. Our indistrict students served in K through 12 was up by one student. Our ind district prevalence rate does remain the same at this point in time. Our indistrict prek is up by five new students. The IND district 18 to 22 transition program is still at 11 students. Our continued outplacement for our 18 to 22 year old students remains at three students and our currently outplaced by PPT K12 is up by one student. Our agency placed by DCF has remained the same at seven. Our magnet parent choice and VOAG does it did go up by one student and our 504 students did increase uh by six students. >> Anyone have any questions or remarks? Mr. Putnham, >> would it be possible at some point you
031got a chart that shows a three or four year history so that you could we all know that you get the the K the K3 or the three-year-old folks who come in just as they age into the program, but kind of so we can see as the year goes along. Are we following the trend? Are we ahead of the trend, behind the trend? I know we're up to about 17.1%. Just trying to keep an eye on it, that's all. But it might be easier to see if we could see the a little bit further back than just last month. >> Nope. Absolutely we can. Those are trends that we do follow internally. Um and again remembering that the in district prevalence rate is only the identification rate and new students that come in that are
032within the district. Our overall prevalence rate does still remain the same at around 19 to 20%. That has remained pretty steady over the last couple years, but I I have no problem adding that in. Thank you. >> Thank you, Miss Le. >> What attendance requirements do we have for outplayed students such that if a student is not attending for whatever reason, we look at other options? >> [snorts] >> Yes, there's a multitude of things that we would do for students with attendant issues. Just like um students that are currently in district, we would be meeting with the out of district placement in order to support the family and trying to attempt to understand why they're actually not attending. In addition, um if it was something specific to the site that they were in, we absolutely
033do go to PPT and work on individualized plans for them that will support them. So, is there any data and I don't expect this, you know, to be on the table now for students who have chronically missed school at an out outplacement setting uh along with transportation to look into other options to save the district money. Sorry if I wasn't clear on that one. >> No, that's okay. It's um it's not kept as a collective aggregate data point. It's kept on an individualized component. So if there's a student who's expressly having difficulty in their site, that's done through the PPT process. >> Thank you. >> Um I just have one Sorry, was there one more hand down there? >> Yes. >> Oh, yes, Mr. Knight. Go ahead. >> Yes. I'm I'm I'm I'm wondering if
034if you can tell me what what you attribute the six student increase in in in 504 plans is. Typically around this time of year, we'll see students who have been involved in tier 2 and tier three intervention process. Those processes last anywhere from six to eight weeks at a time. Once students have remained gone through the tier 2 and the tier 3 process, it's typical that we will have students that will um rise up to going to PPT. And at that point, they go through the full identification process to see if they qualify. The students that um increase in the 504 are again based on their actual accommodations for their 504 plan. There's a multitude of areas that they could come in through that could be medical diagnosis, could be things that are brought in
035from the inside out or it could just be a team diagnosis that we see that now that we see that they have a primary disability that we attempt to accommodate them. >> Anybody else? Uh I just have one thought here. Um and this might uh be something that um kind of goes hand inhand with our budget plan, but um do you have data somewhere maybe in the back of a file cabinet? Uh just like historical data on what we pay for tuition at some of these outplacement facilities. The reason why I ask is because I I was speaking with some members of the House of Representatives. Um, and there's some interest, I believe, this year, in capping or otherwise regulating the tuition increases for these facilities. Um, as well as some of the costs related
036to special ed services. Um, so it would be helpful, although I understand laborious uh to have some of those numbers to wave in their faces. Um, I will tell you that we keep very copious data on that for over the past few years. In addition to the exact to the penny tuition rate, we too are very interested in ensuring that the tuition does remain the same. Um, but it is something we are following and I do have the data. Not something that I probably could share publicly, but I'm sure that in a subcommittee meeting we could review all of that. But we keep copious data on each outplacement site. >> Perfect. and and I I'm sure the board would be uh happy to discuss in a meeting, but um if you have it handy to
037as soon as you have it because the legislative session starts soon, if you could just email it to us, even if it's raw, I mean, I don't need you to make it fancy. I can I can put the charts together. I just think that if there's opportunities to save some of those dollars like Miss Cleo was discussing, um at the expense of people who are not our taxpayers or students, I would be interested in doing it. >> Thank you. Um, we next have Office of Teaching and Learning. >> Yes, thank you. Good evening everyone. Thanks for the opportunity. One of the things that OTL does um particularly at this time of year, we're about halfway through the school year, is to just do a quick look back and see where we've been, where we've come,
038um kind of take stock of our successes and some of our areas of opportunity. So tonight, I'd like to just just do a quick summary of that for all of you. One of the persistent challenges in public education is something we call initiative overload, which is really pursuing too many well-intentioned ideas at once and as a result never realizing the impact of any. So this year we're being very intentional, very disciplined, and rather than chasing every next new initiative, we're narrowing our focus and aligning our work around what matters most, which is highquality instruction as defined by our district in every single classroom. We are so fortunate to have an amazing group of folks in our office of teaching and learning who are leading this work districtwide. You have a timeline in your packet um
039that reflects our commitment to clarity, coherence, and sustained improvement in all of our schools. Throughout this past year, we've worked to articulate not just what we teach, but how students experience learning in our classrooms. Our our working definition reflects our collective belief that all students can grow and succeed when instruction in every classroom is engaging, rigorous, responsive, and inclusive and when it's aligned to standards and our portrait of the graduate. I think it bears repeating just to if you'll indulge me for a minute, I'd like to go through the definition that has been developed in collaboration with teachers and administrators. And I think it's in its fourth or fifth iteration at this point because it is a living breathing document and it's something that our teams are coming back to time and again as we
040continue to learn and grow and really refine our craft as educators. So it as follows. Torington Public Schools is dedicated to creating and facilitating learning experiences that actively engage all students in deep standards aligned tasks that foster critical thinking, problem solving, and collaboration. We believe every student can grow and succeed by building on their prior knowledge and strength. Instruction is intentionally designed to offer multiple entry points, realworld connections, and meaningful opportunities for student discourse and productive struggle. By continuously analyzing student thinking and progress, educators provide timely adjustments and supports that uphold high expectations while meeting each learner's unique needs within a safe and supportive environment that encourages risk-taking and collaboration. Students are empowered to develop academically, socially, and personally. This inclusive approach ensures that instruction is rigorous, responsive, and deeply aligned with the attributes outlined
041in our portrait of the of the graduate. Excuse me. And I just really want to emphasize this. This definition, I I thank you for listening. Has been something that has been words over and over. groups of teachers and administrators have sat beginning in June, July, and on a monthly basis, you know, sitting back and looking at it again because it's been so core and so central to the work that has been undertaken. People are really committed to this. Um, and if you would further indulge us, Josh, do you have the link to that video that you could throw up there? [snorts] Um, OTL is really proud of this quick little video. The link was in your packet. I did email it out to the board last month. Not sure if if everybody had an opportunity
042to see it. Um, but we're very proud of it. We even have our own little song that goes with it. Um, and what you can see here, what this really captures is high quality instruction in every single classroom in every single school. And this has been the core of our work. Continues to be the core of our work throughout the year. So if you don't mind watching, it's just two and a half minutes I think. [snorts] Is the audio not coming up? Okay, I don't want to take any more time. Thank you for um your attempt, Josh. Please, if you have an opportunity, the link is in your packet. If you could watch it. I know Mr. Kiscoco, you did watch it because you emailed me about it. Um you gave me some feedback. So,
043thank you for that. But if other folks could take a look, it's a we have it available through OTL. Sorry folks, we Mary was going to get up and dance. I think [laughter] [gasps] we're very proud of this. I don't know if anybody has any questions. The work at OTL is different. You know, the report that we that I can give is a little bit different than what uh Dr. Baker and Kim and Donna will give. It's not quite as um I don't have a lot of concrete numbers except during the times of the year when we report back student achievement data and that sort of thing. Um but I'm happy to entertain and invite members of my team to jump in at any time. >> Any thoughts, questions for members of the board? >>
044Well, thank you. that the data is less material than the holistic work that you are doing and I think our results show that it is effective even if you don't have nice charts. >> Yeah. Well, that is you got one nice chart. >> That's true. You and you sometimes have them but you know >> uh the important thing is the work is happening and that the students are are learning. Um so thank you for all that you do. Um I always misplace my agenda up here. Okay. Um, we have listed next the food service report. Miss Gagnan's not here. Is is someone planning to give it or should we pass over it? Okay, we will pass over it. Uh, save your burning questions for next time. Um, the liaison reports, I saw them come across
045the wire. I see them in the packet. Um, if anyone who gives a liaison report to the board wants to add to it, now is your opportunity. Okay. Uh thank you all for sending those along. Uh we next have the monthly financials. Donna, do you want to tell us a little bit about those? >> Certainly. Good evening everybody. Um in your packet, you had received the uh monthly financials up until the end of December and uh we were able to go over them at the budget meeting and went through some of the line items that uh looked a little off. Um, but everything is in good shape. We are um at a good point. Assistant Superintendent Ferguson said, we're over the halfway mark and our budget is uh right in line with that. Spending is
046um in uh good guidance also at each of the sites. Uh so I don't know if anybody had any questions. >> Questions from the board. this. I'm just looking at the cover sheet, but it might be the the best uh the best looking monthly financial sheet uh I've seen in years. I don't see anything that I'm worried about. Um >> that's good news. >> Thank you all for your work. Uh and everybody at the sites as well. >> I hope our next budget looks like this. Uh although we'll see. Uh last call for questions on the monthly financials. If not, I will hear a motion to approve those monthly financials. Is there second? Seconded by Miss Cleo. Any discussion? Hearing? None. All those in favor, please say I. >> Any opposed? Those are approved. Uh
047committee reports. Mr. Kusco, tell us about the school improvement committee. school improvement committee met at the beginning of the month and heard uh course proposals and they are on in the agenda in the agenda later. We'll hear more about those. We set a timeline or at least started to get a timeline going on the distinguished alumnus award for the year and we had a very interesting discussion of artificial intelligence and fortunately a couple of the people who were there for course proposals were able to be very informative about AI and and what's going on now. And as you saw in the uh board goals as set out again later in the agenda, uh we will be uh probably looking at AI in in some way or other over the next few months. Uh next week's
048school improvement committee meeting focuses on the middle school and more about that uh next month. Thank you. >> Thank you. Any questions for Mr. Kiscoco related to his committee's work? Hearing none, we next have policy. Uh absent Gary, who wants to tell us about policy? Anyone? >> Uh we didn't have a huge agenda. Um we did start a preliminary discussion on computer use in classrooms. Much more information to come, much more work to be done on it, much more discussion. Um, but it was a good healthy discussion I thought with some teacher involvement, too, which was nice. >> Okay, thank you. I'm sure plenty more to come on that. I can't wait to argue with people about AI. Um, we next have facilities and technology. Mr. Burgerer. Oh, no. We Sorry, we moved that committee's
049chairmanship. Excuse me. >> Ever since I was there. >> Uh, yeah, if you were there, let's see that. Sure. We uh went over [clears throat] the capital plan that's going to be presented to, I guess, this board here tonight uh for next year. We talked about some of the projects outstanding in Mr. Pgola's department uh just through the technology and things like that that Rachel provided some updates, got updates on some of the items they had purchased. Really a pretty standard facilities and technologies committee meeting. >> Great. Um, and just uh because uh it's not elsewhere on the agenda, this may be the more most appropriate time um to briefly discuss the snow plowing contract. Uh you all received an email notice from me and I got some questions from all of you. So I'm
050a firm believer that it's always better to have these discussions in the open. Um so Mr. Mr. Wilson, if you want to just share briefly for anybody who uh you know isn't fully up to speed and then see if we can have a brief discussion. >> Absolutely. And I can have Mr. Pergola check in at any point. Um our current snowplow contractor has decided to uh resend on his end of the contract and part ways with Torrenton Public Schools. Uh Mr. Pragola did his best to contact him and to try to set up several meetings and have communication with him. um and he is pretty adamant that he is done with Torington public schools as of this Friday afternoon. Um I think there are a lot of factors uh that go into it and I
051know Mr. Pgola has been keeping very accurate track of them. We've obviously contacted legal um to understand our liability in all of this in terms of contract language in terms of is if it is allowable to break contract um and it is working with legal right now but Mr. Pragola has been working non-stop in light of this um occurrence to get people to cover in the event that there was another snow event. And unfortunately, Mother Nature does not seem to like us very much this year. Um I don't think she likes anyone. However, uh we are working very hard to make sure that all of our schools will be covered in the event we have another snow event. Um I can definitely turn it over to Mr. Pragola. But I could say that in conversations
052that I had with Mr. Pragola and the contractor that decided to part ways with us, there was a lot of incompetence in my opinion. Um, lack of a thorough job, if you will, and failure to do certain things that Mr. Pgola not only demands, but expects of any company that works for Taranton public schools. Uh, we need to open safely for our students and for our staff. And that was communicated at nauseium prior to the RFP at the RFP once the contract was signed and throughout the entire process. And I will commend Mr. Pagola because he was able to maintain his cool uh very professional throughout the entire thing and also making sure that everything was still running smoothly so that we could open safely. So it is unfortunate and the timing could not be
053worse in a lot of ways. However, I I want the board to understand that uh numerous occurrences that happened led to this and yes, while it was his decision, um I can say that, you know, I feel personally that Mr. Pgola will find adequate replacements and we will be okay moving forward. But Mr. Pgola, if I missed anything, please feel free to share. Uh, no. The first thing I like to say though is um um even before this event happened on our staff, custodial staff on how um how well they're working together and getting the job done. Um I mean today obviously it shined more than usual just because the light was on us and we were able to open up today. Um but throughout this whole winter and this transitional period of uh moving
054the schools around, the collaboration between the older guys and the newer guys we hired and the mentorship has helped with a lot of this. So um they're working extremely hard. Uh you know, we we only really do sidewalks uh according to the contract, but these guys are out cutting corners with the machine, cleaning up after the contractor and making sure things are safe, trying to get salt out as much as we can. So, um, my hat goes off to my team right now, uh, just for the effort they're putting in and the effort they're going to continue to put in. Um, but if there's, you know, any other questions as far as what happened, I will I will answer any of them or [snorts] >> questions from members of the board. Um, and uh, like
055we talked about, I mean, you guys are working to to find some coverage and, you know, uh, I know there was some discussion about reaching out to our partners in city hall and, um, seeing if there's a way we can work with them on things like salt. Um, you know, I think there's, uh, maybe the silver lining is some of that opportunity, uh, for for a partnership on some of this stuff. Um, I will also say uh if there is a storm that requires us uh to spend a bunch of money cleaning up, um I would consider um exploring recovering those funds from the contractor who's reneggging on their contractual obligation to clear that snow and that then has to be cleared at our additional expense. Um, so that's just my humble opinion on that
056matter. But, uh, if you breach a contract and then refuse to provide the services that you're obligated to provide, um, we have to pay for that. And I don't think that, uh, we should be the final payer on that. Um, Glenn, were you going to add something? >> Yeah, I'll add something to that. Um, if we could track that, what do we carry in the snow removal line item? Do we carry last year's budget number over into this year? >> I believe so. >> You don't think so? >> I believe so. I'm sorry. >> I believe so. All right. 120. >> So, we have a little bit of >> Okay. So, if we could just track, you know, what our overages or unders are with what these individual contractors are going to carry. Um, from
057a contract perspective, um, the overall contract was exceeded $300,000. I I think that would warrant put asking um contract performance bonds to be included in the big doc bid documents which I think were excluded. Um that would help the district be protected in such a case if there are performance bonds included. Yeah, I I for what it's worth, I think it's that's also worth exploring um as we look toward future contracts because at least with contracts like this, there's there's nothing actually stopping them from just saying I refuse to provide the services that I've obligated myself to provide unless you know there's a legal action which just isn't always desirable. Um so worth I I agree that we should explore at least the option of performance bonds. Anyone else have any remarks on this matter?
058Okay. Or anything else related to the facilities and technology committee because that's where we actually are is the committee's overall work. Okay. Then we will do budget committee. Uh that's also you Mr. Putnham. >> Yeah. We met here two weeks ago and we reviewed the budget as you saw in the summary sheets provided by Donna earlier tonight. We asked a bunch of questions about uh line items that you know maybe a skew one way or the other. She gave us some great answers. Uh we're getting ready for the budget which has got a schedule provided by the superintendent for how that will go over the next two months or so. We look forward to working with the team on getting a good budget for next year and advocating for ourselves at city hall. >> Excellent.
059Thank you. Any questions related to the budget? That'll be the last time there are no questions related to the budget for a while. Um and then the last thing we've got is the building committee. Um who was at the last building committee meeting? anyone >> you want to tell us a little bit about it? >> Yeah. Uh that was my first one. Not much uh had transpired or had really changed. And Dean, forget me, Mr. Bgola. Sorry if um I'm forgetting anything, but um I know there were um yeah, punch list items. Correct. Thank you. U punch list items that are tentative with the weather pending. So, when it gets warmer out, most of those items are going to get checked off the list there. Um, I know uh concession stand, that's something that's in
060the works as well. Something I'll be helping Mr. out with. Um, but other than that, >> no meeting in February. >> Uh, yeah, no meeting in February as well. Thanks again. >> Great. Thank you. Any questions, additional remarks? Okay, >> I'll have one. How's the concession stand fitting into the building project? >> Uh, shouldn't be >> concession. How is the concession stand fitting into the building project? >> I believe it was it was removed from the project because the it would have been over budget. >> Is that is that adequate? Sure. >> It was my understanding that that would have to be done after the final certificate of occupancy for the fields was given because that money is not under the project. It would be coming from the city. They're turning it back over from
061the Eversource uh credit. So I believe that happens outside of the project once we have all of that turned over. So the building committee will turn the whole project back over and then at that point some other committee I assume would handle the the concession stand. That's that's right. It's the Eversource rebate money and there was this was some years ago. There was a minor dispute over who would take custody of those funds um and what they would be used for. And the resolution was the city would receive them but would spend them on uh things for the school. Um which I thought was a fair and reasonable compromise even if it wasn't necessarily the result I actually wanted >> and the sewer connection fee. We shouldn't forget about the sewer connection. >> I don't
062want to talk about that anymore. I'm still mad about the sewer connection fee. >> So with that said, we have all the plans and specs for this concession stand building. Should we start preparing a an RFP for it at some point? Start start putting that together now so when the school projects closed, we can release it. It it's going to be have to be an RFP for that, right? Yeah. I think in conversations with the two co-chairs of the building committee, I think the understanding is that they're going to create another subcommittee because it is still money from city dollars. Um, and then obviously Mr. PGola would be involved in that process. Obviously, as will the board of education, but it is my understanding um in speaking with them and Mr. Pgola that that is
063was the plan for that 900 or so thousands from the Eversource rebate. >> Who's creating a subcommittee? I believe this, as I said, this was from the building committee co-chairs, but I think there will be input from the board of education since it is on property after the fact. But I think because the dollars came from a rebate from the new building, I think the understanding is that there will be another subcommittee that gets springboarded off of that. >> Well, I just uh let's look into whether that even falls under the opaces of the current building committee. Um because if these funds are not explicitly included in the bond package for this construction, then that building committee can't actually do the project uh in which case the city would have to name a new building
064committee. Um because their money, right? So they get to name the new building committee. But the important thing is that uh we follow all the rules. I we can't just uh without without a vote of the council, we can't just have what is effectively a permanent building committee for all board of ed related projects. They have to be reestablished from you based on the bond issuances. So, it's just something we should look into um before we just agree that they have the ability to do this because I don't want to get nailed later. >> 100% agree. I was just sharing what was shared with us, but we will definitely look into that. Anyone else have anything related to the building committee? Okay. Um, we next have the board of education minutes. Um, we first have
065the board of education regular meeting minutes from December 17th, 2025. They are in your packet. Um, does anyone have any corrections, additions, adjustments? Okay. In that case, I will hear a motion to approve those minutes. >> So moved. >> Is there a second? Was that Joe? Okay. Uh, any further discussion? Hearing none. All those in favor, please say I. >> I. Any opposed? Okay. Those are approved. >> Yes. Uh, >> all right. Marissa for extensions. >> Uh, no. I I I usually don't. It's an oversight, so I do apologize, Bill. But, uh, Marissa has recorded your vote as an abstension. Um, we next have the special meeting minutes uh from December 17, uh, excuse me, December 15th. January 5th, January 6th at 6 p.m., and January 6th at 7:30 p.m. Uh, provided there are no
066adjust additions, adjustments, corrections, I will hear a motion to approve those. >> So moved. >> Is there a second? >> Second. >> Okay. Uh, any discussion? Hearing none. All those in favor, please say I. >> I. >> Any opposed? Uh, any abstensions? Okay, those are approved. Um, we next have the subcommittee meeting minutes. Um, barring uh objection, uh, I will hear one motion for facilities and technology and budget both on December 10th and school improvement on December 2nd, policy November 5th. Uh, is there such a motion? Is there a second? >> Okay. >> Uh, any discussion? Hearing none. All those in favor, please say I. Any opposed? Any abstensions? Those are approved. Uh we next have the consent agenda. It's page 91 of your packet if anyone's invested in that. Um I will hear a
067motion to approve the consent agenda. Is there a second? Okay. Uh any discussion? Bearing in mind that the only discussion you can have is to remove an item. Hearing none, all those in favor, please say I. Any opposed? That's done. We next have new course proposals. Uh they're listed kind of all as one. Um so we can hear about them back toback. I have English 2 AP seminar, digital drawing, and interior design. Who's going to tell us about any or all of those? These courses were all presented at school improvement. We had the teachers uh present to advocate for them. I think the school improvement committee was in full support of moving them forward. Uh none of them have any sort of budgetary impact. Um and the thought is the the the belief the firm
068belief is that they are going to help us strengthen and advance our pathways. Excellent. Thank you. Any questions, thoughts? Uh, okay. Um, I will hear a motion, again, they're listed as as one item effectively. So, I will hear a motion without objection to approve all three new courses presented. >> Okay. Any further discussion hearing? None. All those in favor, please say I. I. >> Any opposed? Any abstensions? those courses are approved. Uh we next have uh the appointment of Stephanie Redmond as a new member of the Agricultural Education Advisory Committee. Um this letter was written to you. If you want to tell us a little bit about it, Mr. Wilson, >> I can. Um we've had a long-standing member that had decided it was time to retire and enjoy some retirement time. Um but Miss
069Redmond had stepped up and made it known that she would like to be named as the agricultural education to the agricultural education advisory committee and as such it has to first get recommended by our board and then I could draft a letter back letting them know that the board is in support of that. >> Excellent. Um any thoughts, comments, questions? Um I would hear a motion. Um can >> I just ask a question? What exactly is that? >> That's a great question. >> Um I it is >> we're appointing somebody. I have no idea what what it what >> it is for the students who who attend the A program and because there are students uh from Torington that do attend it, we have to have representation on the board. I would assume and this
070is just an assumption. I don't want to misspeak but very similar to how we have representation on the ed advance board where Mr. Kisco serves. This would be just so we have our voice at the table as well. It's a great question. >> Okay. >> Right. Um, so what you're now does this uh does s appointment need to be recommended by the board or is the appointment recommended by you and we're just authorizing you to do so? What are you seeking? >> Correct. I would I would um recommend that the board um inform or instruct me to support the appointment of Stephanie Redmond as that new member and I would gratefully write the letter with your support. >> Okay. Any additional discussion? If not, I would hear a motion. um authorizing the superintendent to move
071forward with the appointment of Stephanie Redmond as a member of the Agricultural Education Advisory Committee at Lake View High School. Is there such a motion? >> So moved. >> Is there a second? Second from anyone. Thank you. Uh any further discussion hearing? None. All those in favor, please say I. >> Any opposed? Any abstensions? The motion carries. Okay, we have the board committee assignments. Um, these all went out to you via your emails. Um, our bylaws do necessitate that the board uh review and approve them. Um, they are listed plainly before you. Um, there was wasn't there was there one thing you had wanted to address? >> Yeah, the building committee liaison. I think Mr. Kiscoco is currently resides on that committee. So I don't see any reason why we could remove him. Um so
072it' be and I would also like to add Mr. Putnham on there if he'd be willing to also attend so we have an official seat at the table. Um putting four of them on on that committee because we did lose a lot of actual board representation over the years with people resigning and moving on. So I think currently it's only Mr. Ukalo and Mr. Kiscoco prior to these assignments that were part of the board committee, >> right, >> that are from us. So, I don't know if any how anybody else feels about that. >> Yeah, as long as both gentlemen would uh accept that. >> I'm there anyways. So, it's >> fine. >> Same. You accept that? Sure. >> Great. All right. John nodded. Um so uh uh as long as there's no other discussion
073um I would hear a motion to approve these uh with that friendly amendment uh to the building committee liaison adding Mr. Krisco and Mr. >> Putnham that amendment >> I had a question on the liaison. >> Uh there is a motion. Is there a second? There needs to either be a second or the motion needs to >> sure second. >> Okay. Okay. Uh now discussion miss >> um you had said I could bring this up now I believe is the right time. Um I would like to request that I be moved from uh where I was appointed to an elementary school liaison to the high school because that is my expertise. um if that's possible. [snorts] [clears throat] >> Um I guess if you if we want to have this discussion here, um I will
074say that uh the appointment was made with an eye toward the fact that you were previously employed by the district. Um and so we we made an effort uh like we would with anybody um to not uh mingle those two things. um you know former employment and now their board responsibilities. Um so that is the the justification. Um there is a motion on the table which means if you would care to make a motion to amend these committee assignments that is your prerogative. >> The email I received from you states there will be an opportunity for discussion and a vote at the next regular board of education meeting which is what I waited for tonight. That is correct and we are discussing and we will soon vote. But again, if you would care to make
075an amendment to the motion on the table, now would be the time. >> Okay. I'd like to make that motion for an amendment. >> Okay. Is there a second? >> Seconded by Mr. Kisone. Uh so we are now on an amendment to the motion. Um, [sighs and gasps] will your amendment include a new person uh for Southwest School or does your amendment only amend uh the list to put you at Torington High? >> That that's a question to you, Miss Lou. Does your amendment uh make a new appointment to Southwest School or does it only appoint you to Torington High School? I need to know what you actually want it to say. it would make and someone else would need to be assigned to Southwest School. >> Okay. So, your amendment leaves it blank. Thank
076you. Um, so that is the amendment now on the table. Is there discussion on the motion hearing? None. Um, >> Mr. Chairperson, we would want to come up with if we're going to make a a motion, we probably should have a full motion so we don't have to do it twice. >> Uh, that is unfortunately not how it works. Once the motion's made and seconded, which it was, you then make a motion which is seconded to amend it. So, first we will discuss and then vote on the amendment and then we will discuss and vote on the final question. Um, there can be further amendments if you wanted to stack more of them on top. Uh, that's your prerogative. I'll be here all day hearing. Oh, yes, Miss. So, I know that with liaison um
077assignments in schools, we try to not put people in a position of there's a conflict of interest, which is why I'm not the liaison for THS or TMS because I have children at that school. So, I think that we need to be mindful where we have conflicts of interest. >> Thank you. Any further discussion on the question before us? M >> bring out several conflicts of interest on these assignments, but I'm not going to. Um, I've worked at several schools in the district and I have family members at several schools of the district in the district. Um, and I feel like I could adequately represent and help being liazison to Torington High School um because that's what I know best. Thank you. >> Thank you. Any further discussion on the question before us? >> Hearing
078no further discussion, we will vote. Uh to be clear to all of you, you are voting in favor or against the amendment on the table. Um so all those in favor of the amendment, please say I. >> Okay, that was Jeff. John. >> Yeah, if you could show your hands just so Miss Conway can count. The the amendment is simply that it strikes Elenao from Southwest School, leaves it blank, and appends Elena Soleo to Torington High School. >> Uh that is my understanding of the amendment. >> No, that's that's why I asked you earlier. Um so that is the amendment that is on the table and we are voting. So, all those in favor, please raise your hands so Miss Conway can see >> Four. Uh, all those opposed to the amendment, please raise your
079hands. Four to four. Great. I'll break the tie in the negative. So, the amendment fails. Um, we are now back on the original motion for the committee assignments. Is there additional discussion? Hearing none, all those in favor? Uh, we could try a voice vote. Let's see. Uh, please say I. >> I. >> Any opposed? Any abstensions? Um, okay. Since we're doing it by voice vote, I won't um ask anyone who didn't say anything how they're voting. That carries. Those committee assignments are adopted by the board. We next have uh two additional board goals that the school improvement committee would like the board to consider. Mr. Kiscoco. Please ask. >> Thank you. And for what it's worth, I think these are worthy goals. Um, for anyone who doesn't have a packet in front of them, it's
080that the board will attempt to restore and maintain a positive and productive working relationship with the city government and that the board will oversee the use of artificial intelligence in the school system through policy development, curriculum changes, budgetary support and other means deemed desirable. Any discussion? Yeah. >> So just one question. So with number two in the use of artificial intelligence that could be in the addition of more AI or restricting the use >> kind of go either way where where it's what's what's the intent. >> Generally speaking boards of education around the state are adopting policies about AI. In fact, the state will come out with a master policy at some point, but before that happens, this is moving forward. And I think if we can get ourselves a policy together that will oversee
081it, and not I don't mean dictate it, but just oversee it, uh, that that would be to our advantage because the state sometimes moves very slowly. >> Was that answer your question? >> Yeah. I'm just wondering how From a board perspective, we have such limited access to certain things within the school. How would we oversee something like that? >> Well, the school improvement committee meeting discussion uh for instance uh Miss Sullivan was there and principal Scott explained what's happening in the high school with AI and it would be up to I suppose board leadership to decide about the mechanism of achieving this goal. But I think one way to do it would be to uh establish an ad hoc committee, a small committee, not one of these dog and pony show committees, but a small
082committee that would look at what's going on now and make recommendations to the whole board. We could also hand it over to either school improvement or to the policy committee. But I think that probably they have their own work that they should be doing. And I I think probably the uh artificial intelligence should be handled. >> I think we need to gather our own intelligence before we pass anything on to >> precisely either one. >> Yes. Yes. Yes. >> Understood. I like the idea. I mean it's it can get out of control. It could actually I think hurt the district if it's used haphazardly. Um I think it definitely has its advantages to help people but it can be used in a negative way as far as even teaching and learning. Like anything else can
083be a tool or a weapon. >> Yeah, I like it. >> Uh well, >> a question. >> Oh, Mr. Burger, I would suggest uh the video for the school improvement committee meeting would probably be very useful. It was a great conversation. Miss Conway was there as well. Uh we talked about a lot of the different pieces and concerns about it. Would probably interest you. >> Excellent. Well, I certainly am looking forward to presenting a rigorous condemnation of language learning models to all of you at the appropriate time, but in the meantime, I will hear a motion to approve these two new board goals. >> Is there a second? Uh, okay. Any further discussion? Hearing none. All those in favor, please say I. >> Any opposed? Those are adopted as board goals. Uh we next have
084uh capital plan 2627. Um we have both uh technology and traditional capital improvements. Uh if you guys want to tell us a little bit about that. >> Certainly. I think Mr. Putnham did a great job earlier. uh both the facilities and the technology directors spoke at the subcommittee meeting and presented the capital plan uh for the 2627 school year and going out multiple years after that with priorities uh laid in place that had input from subcommittee members. We feel comfortable with this capital plan. It is our hope that the capital plan will be funded so that we could do these necessary projects. So the capital plan in front of you uh was presented and talked about and discussed at both of those subcommittee meetings and we feel pretty confident and I certainly don't want to
085speak for Mr. Pgolola or Miss Vienn who is on the line who could answer any specifics about it but that's the overall outline of that capital plan that's in front of the board this evening >> if I may. So the the second page of it, right, the um 313 capital reserve, that is the capital reserve. That's money left from previous projects, etc. Um so this would not be a new appropriation if it were to be approved by the city. That is correct. >> Thank you. Any other questions? Um now I I want to raise this. I know there's continuing discussion around the middle school roof. Um, so this we're just voting on this uh essentially to be sent by the district to the mayor. So there's still room if they were looking to negotiate over
086the use of this capital reserve fund there. There's still certainly room to do that and and bring its allocation before the board to reconsider if we needed to. Is that right? >> 100% for the 313 fund. >> Okay. um just as part of the new board goal that we just adopted. Um you know, this will be the topic of discussion at the joint meeting and I want to make sure that we're staying as flexible as we can to do our part um to get this done. Any other questions? If not, I will hear a motion to approve the 2627 capital plan and to authorize the administration to transmit it to the city. >> So moved. Okay, one of you wants to second. Second. >> Perfect. Um, any additional discussion? Hearing none. All those in favor,
087please say I. >> Any opposed? That is approved. Um, oh, those were technically two separate items. My mistake. Oh. Uh, we we approved them as one, I suppose. Um, we next have the budget development. I'm a little too close to this. Next have the budget development process and calendar for fiscal year 2627. Is that in here? I don't see it. >> It may have it may have missed being in the packet. I don't see it. >> I just wanted to update you. I was just changing one date from I think it was March 25th and we changed it to March 18th. Um so that was the calendar. Um the [clears throat] 313 reserve is um as you noted the carryover money that um has been assigned accordingly. The actual capital plan was presented at the
088facilities meeting and it was in the facilities packet. what you have before you um is the capital plan for technology, but the actual capital plan that was presented at the facilities was sent out with the facilities packet is not in front of you, but I do believe we need to um approve it in order to send it off to the city prior to the end of the month. >> Yes. And and the motion that the board just voted on would it's sort of encompassing. It approves the capital plan as presented. Um so you guys are good there. Um, okay. Any questions on the budget calendar update that was just shared? I thought I heard something from you, Jeff. No, >> there was. Thank you, Mr. Putnham. And we were going to talk about it at
089future meetings. Um, I kindly asked that the board of education change the Wednesday, February 11th to Tuesday, February 10th for the facilities, technology, and budget committee. As I shared in my report, I will be traveling to give my presentation on the 11th. So, kind of hard to be in two places at once. Um, and while my team I know can do a phenomenal job without me, I would prefer to be here for the first presentation of the budget. >> I actually can we discuss that briefly? I tell me if I'm wrong, but I believe Miss Cleo, you are unavailable on Tuesday evenings and and she's now a member of the committee. Um, so if we could find a non Tuesday date that works for everybody. Are there are there any other nights of the week
090that you cannot do or is it just Tuesday nights? Okay. Uh so we'll seek a non Tuesday date uh and work with the committee um to schedule something just because it's the budget presentation. We would obviously prefer all members of those committees to be able to be there. I appreciate that. >> Absolutely. >> Okay, where are we? I'm lost again. Uh policy number 5042, student use of the district's computer systems and internet safety. What What are we changing? Because I don't think this is new. We were just updating our policy to adopt Shipman's model policy because ours was a little bit outdated and because we were having the discussion, preliminary discussion about AI, we felt like it was timely to review this and so the committee elected to just move forward Shipman's model policy. Excellent.
091Any questions on the policy as presented? I will hear a motion to approve the same if there is one. Anyone anyone want to be from the policy? Mr. Fund. Is there a second? >> Okay. Uh any further discussion on this policy? Hearing none. All those in favor please say I. >> Any opposed? abstensions. The policy is adopted. Um, we next have a possible executive session uh regarding the retirement incentive memorandums of understanding for the >> chair person. The agenda was amended. >> Yes. Uh, and it was uh G10. We are on G9. >> So, it was I thought it was G8. I think somebody asked for it just before it. >> Oh, no. It goes 8 G and then another number. Um because we subdivide this thing incessantly. Um TPSA, TEA, local 1579 and local
092157. Uh is there a motion to enter into executive session? >> Uh is there a second? >> Second. >> Okay. And we'll just need to invite in Mr. Wilson and Miss Schulty. Um all those in favor? >> I. >> Any opposed? We are in executive session at 6:56. We are back in open session at 7:05. Um, oh, this actually doesn't say uh possible action. Um, no, it just says possible ex. Oh, yeah. I suppose it does. Information and action. Okay, good enough for me. Um, I will hear a motion uh to authorize the superintendent to enter into the memorandums of understanding regarding early retirement incentives with the TPSA, TEA, ASME local 1579 and ask me local 157. Is there a second? Any discussion? uh hearing none. All those in favor, please say I. Any opposed?
093Any abstensions? Okay, so those are good to go. And then the last item we added is the meeting schedule for 2026 2027. Um that was passed out. Um I was right. There was something funny with the original version, but we fixed it. We gave you last year's by mistake. Now you have the right one in front of you. if it does follow the same pattern um you know with committees meeting on the same nights and 6:30 or immediately following we moved meeting start times to 6 p.m. There were a few members of the board who reached out to me indicating that the 5:30 times were becoming increasingly difficult. Um so just in the interest of making sure that the meeting is accessible uh to all of our board members um I'm proposing that we move
094it to 6:00. But this is all open to discussion, revision, etc. if people have thoughts. If not, oh yeah, go ahead. >> I'm all for moving meetings. Did we I wasn't actively listening to what you were saying to be honest. So it is ch it is changed to six o'clock. >> Yes, everything is six o'clock or later. Uh, the other thing I was looking at at some point throughout the year last year, >> um, I guess it's really up to facilities and budget, we were following the previous committees locations. >> Yes. >> And then we changed it to all of them at T at the THS cafeteria. >> So, I guess it was up to you guys. Did you want to because it's half and half again. So do your committees want to always like
095budget and facilities was always coming here the second half of the year. The first half of the year we were going to different locations. >> I I believe yeah the discussion was that school improvement was going to continue its course around the district and we were going to always come back to >> ah >> to here. Okay. Because the version in front of us does have you guys moving around >> um up until a certain point. >> Yeah. So we can amend that. Um, and while we're on that topic, um, let's see. Uh, so school improvement and policy, as long as you guys are content with the rotation that's on there, so we can put facilities and budget always here. And then if you guys want to move your rotations. >> Yeah, it was at
096the request of Mr. Pola actually. So if he still would like to see it that way, facilities and budget was fine with that. >> Where'd he go? >> He's stepped out. John, we um move around school improvement because where we go to the schools that we're meeting with that week. So we we do need to move. >> Yep. I just wanted to make sure while we're on the topic >> and policy just means to say so that policy moves with us, >> right? As long as everybody's happy with that. So the current adjustment uh would just be to make sure that facilities and budget are always here. Bearing in mind this is all changeable if we need to down the line. what we need to do is submit the calendar of these meetings so that
097they all exist right otherwise everything would have to be a special meeting. Uh but these regular meetings are movable if [clears throat] we need to both time, date and location. Um so this would just be a framework and obviously we want to minimize the moving an adjustment but it always happens. Any other adjustments folks would like to see? Okay. If not then uh I will hear a motion to approve the now adjusted meeting calendar. >> Is there >> so moved? >> Is there a second? Great. Uh any further discussion? Hearing none. All those in favor please say I. >> Any opposed? Any abstensions? Okay, that is adopted. Uh we have items for the upcoming agenda. Um we'll have all of the usual fair. Um, let's put like a a dedicated update for the snow plowing
098just so we can see how things worked out. Um, what else do we have? There may be some business related to the middle school or intermediate school roof project depending on how our joint meeting goes. Anyone else have anything they want to put on? Okay. Uh, >> maybe we could we'll have to find a spot for the AI. >> Uh, yeah. I mean, oh yeah, to create a committee. Yes. Um, good point. So, we'll include that as well. >> Um, I have future meetings, uh, Wednesday, February the 4th, 5:30 and 6:00. Um, here for school improvement, uh, and then policy. Um, just for everyone's awareness, um, we're going to be stuck with the 5:30 meeting times for a little while longer until the new calendar kicks in. Um, I have uh it's listed on the
099agenda as Wednesday the 11th for facilities and budget, but like we discussed, we're going to look for an alternative date that uh works for everybody because those are going to be important meetings. We want to make sure both the superintendent and his team and all the members of the committee can make it. So, more to come uh on that. And then we have the regular board of ed meeting Wednesday, February the 25th at 5:30 right here. Comments for the good of the order. We'll start at the end with Miss Cleo. >> Thank you. Who's next to you? Mr. Knight. >> Nothing. >> Mr. Krisco. >> To congratulate the uh ethics team from Torington High School which came in ahead of a couple of private schools and a Gold Coast school uh in this weekend uh
100Saturday, I believe. So, congrats. >> Mr. I forgot to add one thing to the building committee. They are working hard to get those fields open for the end of April. The turf fields at least so that the only one that wouldn't be done by the end of April would be the softball field. Otherwise, they're looking to have the first baseball games and such on the turf fields in April. >> Great, Mr. Cronin. Oh, no. Sorry, Mr. Kesha. I can't always see. >> That's all right. No, good meeting. Thanks, >> Mr. Cronin. >> Good meeting, >> Miss Conway. >> Uh, great meeting. Uh thank you to our uh ths representatives who spoke tonight very eloquently. Um and just a quick uh plug what Mr. uh Wilson said, there is a Frozen Junior show coming up um
101at the middle school February 12th, 13th and 14th and I hope to see all of your smiling faces there supporting the kids. >> Mr. Burgerer, >> nothing. Good meeting. >> Okay. Uh Mr. Pragola, you're back just in time for your comments for the good of the order. >> No, good meeting and looking forward to spring. [laughter] >> Dr. Baker, >> meeting. Thank you. >> Thank you everybody. >> Miss Schulty, >> good meeting. Thank you, >> Miss Bergson. >> Great meeting. Thank you, >> Mr. Wilson. >> Uh, great meeting. And I just forgot and it slipped from my notes and my apologies for that. We had a grand opening of the Torrren Transition Academy uh last week where we welcomed parents to come in and take a look. And a big shout out goes to Mr.
102Pgola and his entire team for getting that area ready and for Dr. Torres for welcoming uh our TTA students to fast academy where they are now back home and we could not be happier and great meeting. Thank you. >> Thank you. Um yeah, I will just remark briefly. Uh we discussed this earlier. The legislative session begins very soon. There's some interesting stuff being discussed for related to education. Uh some possible adjustments to the ECS formula, tuition caps. Um I even heard very quiet whispers about changes to mandates for transportation and nursing at private schools, although I wouldn't hold your breath for that one. Um so just uh I would encourage everybody to stay active, informed. um come and harass legislators with me at the capital next time there's a public hearing if you're so inclined.
103And with that, I will hear a motion to adjurnn. So move. >> Uh we'll give second. Yeah, somebody uh all those in favor. >> Any opposed? We are adjourned at 7:14.