001Good evening. Since 601, the board has been in close session for the discussion of minutes lawfully closed under the Open Meetings Act, whether for the purposes of schoolboard approval of the minutes or semianual review of the minutes as mandated by the act. the appointment, employment, compensation, discipline, performance, or dismissal of specific employees or legal counsel, including hearing testimony on a complaint lodged against an employee or legal counsel to determine its validity. Collective negotiating matters between the school board and its employees or their representatives, or deliberations concerning salary schedules for one or more classes of employees. and for litigation when an action against, affecting or on behalf of the school board has been filed and is pending before a court or administrative tribunal or when the school board finds an action is probable or imminent in
002which case the basis for the finding shall be recorded and entered into the minutes of the closed meeting. I will take a motion to come out of close session. >> So moved. >> Second. >> A motion has second been heard. Please call the role. Mrs. Patton >> McMillan >> I. Gerky I >> Blastic >> I >> Kelly Black >> I >> Winsky >> I >> Kazinski >> I >> The motion passes we are in open session welcome to the board's February 7 17th 2026 meeting please call the role Mrs. Hon >> board members present this evening Christine Gerky, Melissa Kelly Black, Joe Kosminsky, Amanda McMillan, Holly Blastic, and Mark Winsky. Student ambassadors present Will Swatos and Sam Carlton. And just as a reminder, our mission is to empower students to develop a learner's mindset, demonstrate
003adaptability, communicate effectively, think critically, and become global citizens. Please now join the board and our friends from Meadow Glenn's with the pledge of allegiance. All right. Hi, I'm Alex Marorrow, principal at Meadow Glenns, and I have some really special friends here with me today. I have >> easy >> Benley Miles, Mr. Christopher Lee, >> Alan Sani, >> Aydah, >> Annie, Tassy. >> So, we're going to say the pledge together. Are we ready? >> Yes. I >> flag of United States of America and to the republic from which it stands. One nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. >> And if you wouldn't mind, we're going to say the pledge again using one of our AAC devices. So you can try to keep up with us. It's pretty quick, but our friends have
004been practicing on the pledge at Meadow Glenn, so we're going to get that started. Ready, guys? Okay, easy. Press the button. >> I pledge of 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. >> I know it's quick. And I wanted to share with you how these friends in particular got chosen to come do this special thing to represent Meadow Glenns. Today we have something called soore tickets. Alan, can you tell them about sore tickets? >> Um, soar tickets are a raffle prize where we can be chosen each week to come to the office and come here annually. >> Yeah. And we get sore tickets put in the raffle for following our sore expectations at
005school. So it's a very special thing. So, all of these friends here today got their sore tickets pulled to represent our school. All right, great talk, guys. We'll invite our friends from stay right where you're at. Um, Mrs. Patton is about to take your picture. There we go. The hole. Get in there. And once Mrs. patent takes her pictures. If they're family, friends, magazine, journalists, paparazzi, whatever that want to come forward, take a picture of the group, you are welcome to do so. Please come on forward if you'd like to take a get a closer picture. And I want to thank uh our parents and friends who came with their uh kids tonight. We appreciate having their voice here at our meeting to get us started. And thank you to our friends from Middle Glenns
006for making the time. I know school can be very busy. Awesome. Well, one more time, let's thank our friends for Middleland. [applause] Okay, we are now at item 4.01, good news. >> Okay, we do have uh some good news, some great news to share with our community. Nepil 203 is proud to announce that Seth Brady, a veteran social studies teacher at Napville Central High School, has been recognized by the Illinois State Board of Education as a 2026 regional teacher of the year. As the recipient for the Far West Suburbs region, Seth is now a finalist for the prestigious Illinois Teacher of the Year Award. The Those Who Excel and Teacher of the Year award celebrate educators who have made significant contributions to Illinois's public and non-public elementary and secondary schools. Brady was selected for his
007career-long dedication to global education, civic engagement, and his commitments to fostering inclusive inquirybased learning environments. Congratulations to Seth. [applause] On Tuesday, January 27th, the District 203 fifth grade honor strings and fifth grade honor band performed their culminating concert in the Neapville central auditorium under the direction of Megan Rosini, Megan Lean, Emily Emma Oliver, and Brad Friendway. Students from all 14 elementary schools participated in auditions in early October. Students select selected students rehearsed after school from October to January to prepare a challenging set of repertoire. The concert's finale featured two ensembles, the two ensembles and select 203 music staff playing a combined piece. Fifth grade honor band and honor strings are a unique 203 tradition backing dating back to the 1980s. We are so proud of these hardworking young musicians and the music educators who have
008poured into their success. Congratulations. [applause] Uh, fifth grader RV Vukaru Eu from Metal Glenns Metal Glenn's night tonight hosted a book drive in her community where she received 1,660 books that she donated to Bernie's book bank in Lake Bluff, an organization that provides books to low-income children in Chicago and neighboring suburbs. The volume of books she collected will benefit over 200 children. RV is passionate about reading and hopes this donation will not only make those children passionate readers themselves, but that it also inspired other kids that they can make a difference in their community, no matter their age. [applause] And then finally this evening, we are thrilled to share some wonderful news regarding our dual language program. Because of the incredible growth and success of our students, neighbor 203 was selected as a showcase site
009for the National Association for Bilingual Education. On February 9th, we welcomed a group of distinguished professionals and educators from across the country to visit our classrooms. They specifically came to see our dual language program in action, looking at neighbor 203 as a model of excellence in bilingual education. This visit highlighted our district as a leader in fostering bilingualism and biliteracy. It was a direct reflection of the hard work, curiosity, and cultural pride our students bring to the classroom every day. Our teachers had the opportunity to share their expertise with leaders in the field, further strengthening strengthening the dual language community. That's our good news. [applause] >> Okay, thank you for that. And next, our student ambassador reports. And I believe this is the first meeting for both of you. So second, I'm sorry. >> Sorry.
010It's okay. Um, okay. So go ahead. You can choose who wants to go first and give us your updates. >> Is this thing on? >> Oh, yeah. It's on. All right, cool. I have a lot to get through, so I'm just going to hopefully speed through it and you guys will get catch it. All right, so I'm going to start off with the sports. Um, we had our winter sports and they're ending. So, here's a quick recap of all of our winter sports. So, girls basketball regionals are this week along with DVC champions. They opened the regional tonight at Neighborville North against Matia Valley. Boys bowling advanced to state as a team a few weeks ago and girls bowling had two individuals qualify for sectionals. She advanced to the state finals as a team and
011finished in the top 15. Gymnastics had two athletes advance to the sectionals in the all-around competition. Boys swim and dive competes this weekend at sectionals. Indoor track season begins is beginning its competitions. Boys wrestling had 10 athletes compete in the sectional this weekend and won has advanced to state. Girls wrestling had a regional champion. We and to cap that whole thing off, we inducted six new members into the Neapville Central Athletic Hall of Fame on Friday, February 6. And the all inductees were celebrated in an all school assembly before addressing our current student athletes during an eighth period panel. So, we would like to thank um everybody uh the members of administration team who were able to attend and we're looking forward to the start of our spring sports. Now, moving on to the stage,
012we have Theater Central, which is presenting its winter play, which is the musical comedy murders of 1940. Performances will be held at the end of this month. Uh, Theater Central is also um starting off with the spring musical, which is Freaky Friday. It was announced earlier this month and hosted its auditions along with a cast list that was posted today. So, congratulations to all who made it. Uh, registration for Central's Got Talent has opened up starting today also. And the band orchestra and choir are preparing to hold their spring concerts at the beginning of March. As for activities, math team DVC took place. They took home second place overall. Science Olympiad had a Northwestern Invitational. Junior class council organized and ran Cubs during the lunch periods. Mu Alpha Theta hosted STEM nights at Ranchview and
013Meadow Glenns for elementary schoolers at the science fairs. Deb Dash, a junior, qualified for state and speech and our chess team went to state. As for upperassman events, we had our senior class party is on the 21st. We have a new prom location which is the Bowling Brook Country Club and senior class council is currently accepting submissions for the second round of senior superlatives. Wow, that's alliteration. And the [laughter] and the senior video submissions for the senior video closes April 10th and that's it. Thank you so much for that. And take a breath and [laughter] a drink of water. I want to take a drink for you. Okay, go ahead. >> I'm Sam Carlton. I'm the representative for Neapville North. Uh so recently we had our orchestra show which highlights dancers from our sophomore, junior,
014and uh senior classes. It was a big hit and a lot of the parents got to go out and it was just a really fun event for all that participated. Uh we also recently had our winter play which was the play that goes wrong. It was hilarious. It was a great watch and uh a shout out to our tech crew who did a phenomenal job putting that all together. It was really well done. Um recently we also had our senior night for all of our winter sports and playoffs are beginning for them as well. Uh actually tonight our girls play at 7:30 against Planefield South and then tomorrow boys take on uh Niqua for the DVC championship. Uh spring sports triyouts are coming up with our open gyms being fully underway as well as some
015preseason conditioning which I do not like as much. Um be we uh recently also began construction on the athletic edition which is very exciting for all of our sophomores who are going to be able to use those facilities in the future. Um our co-op hockey team for Neville North and Neville Central won their first state game as well. So they take on uh BGHW this Sunday which is really exciting. I'm the goalie by the way. Um we also recently had our air band auditions which is a huge event through Neighborville North for all of our seniors and all 13 teams who auditioned all made it. So, it's going to be a pretty long show and we're really excited to really uh put it on and just do that for the community. Uh recently, our wrestling
016sectionals went really well. Most mo most notably, sorry, um Tofi um winning his uh weight group weight class uh and coming in first for the sectional, which was pretty impressive as well. Um gymnastics competed competed at their sectionals, which were hosted by Hinsville Central. Our chess team made state as well. And our dance competed in Bloomington for the state competition. We also recently had our athletic hall of fame night with 12 inductees which was our first um hall of fame night since pre-COVID which so it was pretty exciting to see a lot of pro athletes come back to our school and come back to the stomping grounds and it was uh there are a lot of inspirations there for a lot of our current athletes here at April North. Um over the weekend we also
017just hosted the Clash of the Sequins which is a show choir competition and it was a great hit with among uh everyone that participated and thank you to all of our show choir members who helped out with that. And then uh next Friday we have our senior week or sorry this week is our senior week and then this Friday is our capp and gown pickup as well as our hypnotist show which I'm very excited for. And then um next Sunday afternoon on the 22nd is our Black History Month showcase as well. And that's that. >> Thank you so much for the updates. Uh if if you'd like to stay, you're certainly welcome to. But if you have other things you need to get to tonight, it's okay to leave too. >> Regional basketball. >> Okay.
018>> Have fun. Okay. Item five, public comment. We have reached the point in our agenda for public comment. The board of education welcomes comments from the public at its meetings. Citizens who wish to address the board of education should identify themselves by name. Comments by individuals shall be limited to three minutes. The individual is representing multiple individuals or a group. They shall be allowed to speak for five minutes. The board [clears throat] respectfully requests that speakers refrain from commenting about specific individuals. At this point, I would like to welcome Emma Oliver. Good evening. My name is Emma Oliver and I am a fourth and fifth grade band director in Neapville 203. Um, I'm a little early, but March is music in our schools month. Um, and so I thought it was an appropriate time to
019come and toot my own horn, so to speak. Um, specifically, I'm here to illustrate how phenomenal our existing programming is in fourth and fifth grade band and orchestra. Uh, the beginning band and orchestra programs in our district are really the unsung heroes of our instrumental music program in Neapville 203. Uh, you won't hear about the successes of our students at contests or festivals just yet, and you won't see me winning an award for my students stellar rendition of Hot Cross Buns, but the work that is happening in third, fourth, and fifth grade is foundational to our incredible junior high and high school musicians accomplishments. In case you aren't familiar with our programming, we start to connect with third grade students. Uh, in March of each year, music staff demonstrate all of the available instruments at
020an assembly. Then we hold instrument clinic days during the month month of April at each elementary where students have an opportunity to discover whether the instrument they'd like to play is a good physical match. Unlike many comp districts uh which host instrument trials outside the school day, our program holds the door wide open to every single third grader. Think of it like the Harry Potter sorting hat day but with instruments. It's truly a magical moment. Because we work with every single third grader and because we hold all of our lessons and rehearsals within the school day, our elementary programs provide an opportunity for a wide range of students to participate. Transportation is not an issue and families do not have to worry about conflicts with afterchool activities. I personally teach 170 band students between my
021two elementary schools. Elementary band and orchestra are hugely popular in Neapville 203 and enroll hundreds of students every year. What you see at our concerts is just the tip of the iceberg of the student experience. What is participating in elementary band or orchestra do for kids? Well, to put it succinctly, I'd say it fosters an equitable and high performance culture focused on student learning, well-being, and engagement. Strategic focus number two of our strate focus 203 strategic blueprint. Our program structure promotes equity. Music is inherently focused on attention to detail in a high level of performance. Our music staff are caring adults who provide check-ins in a small group setting, fostering students emotional well-being and belonging at school. And regarding engagement, for many of our students, their band and orchestra days are a favorite day of
022the week, making it exciting to come to school. I love my job as a beginning band director in 203. And our team is collaborative, creative, and hardworking. Thanks for allowing me a moment to celebrate our beginning band and orchestra programs. And please remember when you hear concert bands, pep bands, marching bands, musical, and show choir pits that it all started with a well sequenced lesson on hot cross buns. Thank you so much and have a nice evening. >> On behalf of the whole board, thank you so much for your comments. I do not have any other slips um for public comment. Does anyone wish to address the board of education? Yes. Can I speak? >> Go ahead. Yes, please go ahead. >> My name is Shannon. Oh, sorry. Timer verical. Okay, go ahead. Thank you.
023>> Um, my name Hi, my name is uh Shannon Shock. I'm the mother of an eighth grade student at Lincoln Junior High. Thank you for allowing me time to speak. I know that the uh board has been um going over the proposed uh school calendar for the 2027 to 2028 school year. And I'm just here to request that the start date be pushed back for a few different reasons. Um, number one is just starting earlier and earlier every year has been more and more crushing to my child's um, mental well-being and her ability to get through the school year. There is a lot of pressure on these kids. They have heard about testing and grades and competencies since kindergarten and it's all going in some more than others. Um, and the goal is to enjoy
024every day, to get the most out of it, to take her to where she wants to go. And I think that's the case for all of our friends with children in the school district, too. We're very grateful for everything that this school district has provided for our child and the teachers, the educators, the leadership, and the board. Um, in addition to shortening the time, so my child will be sitting in a in a seat in class on the 14th, then the 13th, then the 12th. Um, I know that there are a number of conflicts with students that are in other districts and then also family gatherings, activities. My child doesn't uh participate in sports, although she's looking into it. Um, but uh but the school year starting so early has cut into the summertime to
025fully enjoy it. Usually with parents schedules, with other activities that start at the end of the school year, it is all running together in a very short, tight little box. And our students are under so much pressure every single day. We are asking of them what we used to do in college and beyond. And although they can handle it and they do really well and they have the very best here, um they really do need a longer break. They need the school year to start later. always I think that the Labor Day Memorial Day would be ideal and I understand that the um the school board locally doesn't decide that number of days but um there is some flexibility into when that school year will start and how that's sort of sliced and diced in
026terms of the um trimesters and semesters. I don't feel that things need to be exactly equal. I understand not having things too far out of balance, but I'm asking you on behalf of the students well-being mentally, physically to get out there, the change of pace, doing things that they follow their interests on, getting families time away when everybody is in front of their screen so much and they have work to do every single day and then homework and we have our work to give us that time so that summer starts, you know, and ends when it should and school starts after the summer is over at the middle to end hopefully of August. Thank you very much for your time and your service. >> On behalf of the board, thank you for your comments. Does
027anyone else wish to address the board? >> As a reminder, because the questions raised in public comment address district operational matters. The board has designated our superintendent as the spokesperson for the district as our designate to respond to public comment and he will apprise the board of ed accordingly. This will conclude our public comment period. We have now reached the business portion of our meeting. As a reminder to the community, the board understands and has affirmed through our board agreements that is each individual member's responsibility to prepare for each meeting. Board members have also agreed that avoiding, excuse me, avoiding no surprises is paramount in displaying respect for all district administration and the community. In the spirit of no surprises, the board has tasked itself to send questions in advance of each meeting to the
028superintendent. This practice allows the superintendent to provide the best possible answer for the community. Additionally, it allows for maximum efficiency during the community's meeting. Those same submitted questions may also be asked in open session along with new ones that may arise during discussions. Mrs. Patton, what time was the email sent advising the board that board docs was loaded and ready for our review? >> Emails with the link for the board agenda were sent and delivery was confirmed at 400 p.m. Thursday, February 12th, 2026. >> Thank you, Mr. Bridges. Did you receive questions from board members in advance of tonight's meeting? >> Uh, yes. I received questions from all seven board members. >> Thank you. As a reminder to all board members, I will recognize each individual for their questions or comments. The board agreed by
029consensus in open session at our February 3rd meeting [clears throat] that we will limit ourselves to three minutes per board member per agenda topic. If the board reaches consensus after that time, we may choose to go around a second time with questions. Please also remember it is not in order to interject unless you've been recognized. And tonight's timekeeper is Amanda. Item six, monthly reports. The monthly reports have been loaded for our review. [clears throat] Do we have any questions on our reports, Melissa? Um I wanted to start with the treasury report or the fund balance as the report is called. Um uh according to the fund balance we have a deficit of 26 million and just to state this is for the ending period of December 31st of last of 2025. So any changes that
030we made since in in January or February, they would not be on this. So according to this for capital projects, we spent um year to date uh about $14 million. Is that correct, Mr. Francis? You're looking at the treasury report and the fund balance year to date information. >> Correct. >> Expenses year to date in the capital projects fund is 13.5 million. Yeah. >> Okay. Um and then we had and just so people know where I'm getting these figures that there there's the reports that were written um that are in board docs um today for today's meeting. But I'm also referring back to I think as we talk about the deficit as to what did we as a board what was recommended to us because people wanted to know how the budgeting process works. What
031was recommended to us and what did we approve for spending this year. Um and according to the um budget the board budget book we approved for capital projects to be spent the total expenditures to be $22 million. Is that correct? >> I don't have the budget book. >> Yeah, I do have it in front of me. It is. And if somebody wants if I make a if I'm incorrect, somebody can feel free to correct me at the next meeting. Um so that means we have spent um like 14 million of that already in July in January. I mean um we approved um was it $18 million I think in January. So if you take the 13 or the 14 million you add another 18 million in January that means that we have spent so we
032have 14 plus 18 we're already at let me do my math like we're over we're almost at 32 2 million. >> I'm not sure what you're referring to with the $18 million that the board approved in January. Can you clarify that, please? >> Uh, if we go back, can we go back into the meetings from last week? Last on January, I think it was 20th, you will see what the board approved the amounts that we approved for different projects. And >> I'm not I'm not familiar with that. >> Okay. Um, and then >> and even if the board approved that, the I'm not sure why you would be adding that to the December year-to- date number. Typically, capital projects take a year or two years or sometimes three years to to complete. So, even if
033the board did approve, like there's bids on the on the board agenda tonight for the transportation facility, that will affect the budget, that will affect expenditures out of the capital projects fund, but that will not affect expenditures in the capital projects fund for the month of January 2026. >> No, it wouldn't for the January, would Oh, okay. But you're not taking his response time out, right? Okay. So basically if you go and you look at that you have the 18 million that I'm saying year to date. So that means we've already surpassed our yearly budget for capital projects and then tonight >> time >> we have a lot more. >> Mr. Francis if you maybe discuss for the board for clarity on differences between our operating fund balance and our investment fund balance. I >>
034I I think that's maybe worth confusion. I don't know to be honest with you. No, I'm not looking at all at investment funds and I have the booklets and all that. >> So, hold on. You haven't been recognized. We >> we did um Mike, go ahead, please. >> I did mention at the November financial um projection update and most recently when we did the uh other update that referred back to the November, I think it was November 14th uh update that [clears throat] this year we'll be bringing an amended budget to the board of education. If you recall back in when the when the budget was first brought when the the current year budget was brought to the board last May, the board at that time had not approved the transportation facility. And so when
035we upon approval of that facility and upon now tonight the approval of those bids with the the the exact values then that the the current year budget will have to be amended partly for a couple different reasons. Number one, we are going to have have some of those costs spent because if you saw Melany's memo, Melanie checks memo, construction is set to start in the month of March. So, anything that happens in March, April, May or June, which is will be a portion of the that bid will be affect will affect the 2026 budget that was not budgeted for even though the board approved it. And as I mentioned multiple times, we will bring an amended budget to to reflect those additional costs. And then beyond that, it needs to be uh a transfer for
036again that the board was well aware of to fund that project will also be part of that uh amended budget. That amended budget is scheduled to come to the board. I think it's going to be at the same timeline as the 27 budget. So the so we can stay in in line. will see the the board will see the amended budget for 26 and the FY27 budget in May and in in uh this June. Hopefully that clarifies it. >> I don't know if I'm allowed to respond. >> Well, we we've agreed three minutes per topic per board member. >> Okay with that. >> Anyone else have questions on the Treasury report? Item 6.02, investments question. Sorry. What was it? [laughter] Okay. Item 6.02, investments. Any questions on investments? 6.03, the insurance report. Any questions, Melissa?
037Um, looking at again looking at the I've brought my concerns up about the medical and dental insurance fund and we did transfer some of we transfer some money out of investments to cover and so what I noticed for again December 34th 31st um it shows that there is our total dispersements um exceed our our receipts for year-to- date by four million. So, the claims are exceeding the contribution which isn't stable in the long term. We already sold some investments and transferred them. Um, so I guess I've asked previously for is the insurance fund deficit driven by it's driven by health cost claims and I want to point out that this has nothing to do with salaries uh of um employees. This just means our insurance claim. So usually in these circumstances um this type of
038problem is addressed by a benefit plan adjustment not staff reductions. Um but currently we're reling relying on reserves. And at the uh January meeting I asked you were going to speak to our investment group and maybe an actuary and find out um what we intend to do. We we are is this on? We are um working our insurance committee is aware of the deficit in the insurance fund. The uh current uh budget situation is uh is not this this $4.5 million is not related to the structural deficit that we're projecting um moving forward. This is uh the last couple last month or two claims have come back down to a normal level. Um our insurance committee will be looking at um plan our consultant will bring options to the insurance uh committee to uh contemplate
039moving forward for a next year. As you know we're on a fiscal year basis. One of the things that this does not also uh reflect yet is the the premium increase that the board approved last August took effect on January 1st. So the revenue will go up slightly um on a monthly basis to help offset the the current deficit. Um but again these are based on employee claims and there is no uh way to predict those from now until the end of the year. Do you have an additional question? >> No, I just wanted to say that there's some changes there. So again, we can just follow up and see because obviously We at at the at the beginning of at the meeting a month ago, I did inform the board uh specifically on this
040topic and said that I would be taking action on the long-term portfolio to create more liquidity in the health insurance uh plan. That has been done. On next month's report, you will see no long-term investments in the health fund. They were all absorbed into the education fund and liquid investments were traded with the same value to the health fund to replace those long-term investments. >> But we Melissa, just please wait to be recognized. >> Um, go ahead. >> Um, so just but we are taking from here to cover a deficit that we need to be concerned about. It's not long-term viable to keep selling off. >> We're not selling off any investments. We're making liquidity within the insurance fund so we can pay the monthly bills. Um the the expenditures that are exceeding the revenue
041which we saw during the fall is a problem has been a problem and we're we're reflecting that a number of different ways. One with a cash flow issue by changing the long-term investments into short-term liquid investments. Secondly, as I mentioned, this the the insurance committee will be brought options for plan design changes or other options that the insurance committee can make recommendations for. Well, ultimately we'll go to the school board for um any potential changes that typically happens in in the summer for to reflect any changes to the plan that won't affect that will not take place until a year from now or almost a year from now, January 1st of 2027. Any additional questions on the insurance report? Item 6.04, the budget report. Any questions, Melissa? Um, now, as I've learned in this process,
042one of the things I've kind of noticed is you will notice that in our treasury or fund report, we talk about capital projects. Um, one of the challenges when you go over and you go to the budget report is that um there's not a section you'll see that there's when we go to I'm looking at year-to date not necessarily the monthtomonth variances but um it will talk about expenditures by objects but under the sections under expenditures we do not have a section for capital projects um so there's not necessarily a running tally I think that that's something we should consider doing. Um, now what when I went back and I looked at our budget again, our original budget, um, and looked at the coding that tells me that helps me as a schoolboard member go,
043okay, what's the difference between capital outlay versus capital projects? So, I went back and I looked at what we had budgeted. So capital outlay is used to it's for typically um something comes out of that fund if it's over $5,000 or if it's for a long-term improvement or assets. So the capital outlay when I look at capital projects trying to compare. So, we budgeted for, like I said before, the 22 million for capital projects. Um, I looked and it said that basically those come out of the funds, 3,000 professional services, 5,000 capital outlay and non- capital equipment. Now, of this, a vast majority of that 22 million comes from capital outlay. So as I did the research it says basically capital outlay is usually your on O andM expenses expenditures and your capital projects and
044again I'm concerned because we have our cap capital outlay if you look we have budgeted um 32 million but if you look at the treasury report um it says C capital outlay. Okay, we will go to year-to- date actuals. We're at $18 million. Um, it says our budget's 32 million, which I said, which um means that we've spent 56% of that by June or by the end of December 31st. Now again, if we add those expenses that we spent for capital projects, um the 18 million and then tonight, I believe were approximately 18 more million that's up to be spent. According to this coding, it should come out of the capital outlay. Most of it, a majority of it. I I'm not sure what board member uh Kylie Black is referring to with the additional
045$18 million >> that's going to be added to the expenditures. I I'm not following that at all. >> That's from Melissa. We're we're at time for for that. >> Okay. Action. >> Um item seven, action by consent. Um 7.01, 901 bills and claims. Holly. All right, that's me. My first time doing um bills and claims kind of by myself, shadowed by Joe, thankfully. Um wanted to thank Michelle for being amazing and getting me all of the information um helping me go through and understand some activities, clubs, um going traveling to conferences and those kind of expenses. It was very thorough and very helpful. Again, um can I go to move? All right, let me get all these. Do we have um do we have >> motion in a second then? >> Yeah, do the motion
046second. Sorry. Go ahead. For just seven >> just bills and clearance. >> Yes. >> All right. So, I move approval of warrant number through 1074243 and warrant number 9000000147 and 9000000149 totaling 25,578,7628 8 cents for the period of January 21, 2026 to February 17, 2026. >> Okay, a motion and a second have been heard. Is there any dis or sorry, second? >> Thanks, Amanda. >> Okay, so you read my mind. A motion and a second have now been heard. Is there any discussion, >> Melissa? I do. >> I I say something each month. I do not vote I vote no for the bills and claims because as you've seen when we try to discuss the reports or we do the budget it is those those funds and the number the accounting system they use is
047essential and we do not like other districts use those fund balances which reduces transparency and the understanding of the financials of the school district. So I have a statement that I'll read tonight. and I will be voting no on the approval of bills and claims. I want to be clear, this vote is not about questioning the integrity of our staff or the necessity of district operations. It is about the board's responsibility to provide financial oversight, particularly at a time when this district is facing a significant budget deficit. Bills and claims approval should be a meaningful governance function, not simply a procedural step. If the board is expected to approve expenditures, we must be provided information that allows us to verify spending and understand trends across funds and departments. Over the past year, I've consistently requested
048documentation and reporting that would allow board members to verify expend expenditures with descriptions, monitor spending patterns, identify areas of own overspending early, and make informed budgeting decisions. Those requests have not yet resulted in a process that provides the level of transparency necessary for responsible financial oversight. I understand that the administration reviews expenditures before they reach the board. However, the board cannot delegate its fiduciary responsibility to approve spending without sufficient information to exercise independent judgment. This concern is particularly important given the district's current deficit, continued approval of major capital expenditures, and ongoing discussions about potential um impacts to staffing and student services by reducing staff, which directly impacts the in the um the instruction and the quality of education our students receive. Strong financial oversight protects everyone, students, staff, taxpayers, and long-term stability of the district.
049Our strategic blueprint calls for us to steward resources effectively to promote student learning. And that responsibility requires clear, accessible financial reporting to the board. Until the bills and claims process allows board members to meaningfully review and verify expenditures, I cannot in good faith approve them. I will remain committed to working collaboratively to strengthen financial transparency and ensure that our governance practices match the expectations of our community. >> A motion and a second have been heard. Is there any other discussion? Please call the role. Mrs. Patton. >> Kazminski. >> I. >> Kelly Black. >> Nay. >> McMillan. >> I. >> Winsky. >> I. >> Gerie. >> I. >> Blastic. >> I. The motion passes. >> All right. Um, do do we need to pull any of these? >> We need to separate out the minutes. >>
050Okay. >> You can do them. >> I believe you can do January 20th and January 22nd together. >> Okay. >> I think all seven board members were present for the both the first two. >> All right. And can I do um adoption of the personnel report with that as well? I'm sorry. Do that one first. >> Um, >> I just did. >> Yes. >> So, I move the approval of 7.02 adoption of the personnel report and I can do two of the open meeting minutes. >> No. Okay. So, 702 adoption of the personnel report. >> Second. >> Okay. A motion and a second have been heard. Any um discussion on 7.02? Okay. A motion, a second. Uh, sorry. Please call a RO. Mrs. Patton >> McMillan. >> Hi. >> Cosminsky. >> Hi. >> Blastic. >>
051Hi. >> Gerky. >> I. >> Kelly Black. >> I. >> Winsky. >> I. >> Okay. The motion passes. Okay. >> All right. I move approval of 7.03 board meeting minutes for January 20th, 2026 and January 22nd, 2026. >> Second. >> A motion and second have been heard. Any discussion? Okay. Please call the role. Mrs. Patton. >> Gerie. I >> Blastic >> I >> Kazinski >> I >> Winski >> I >> McMillan >> I >> Kelly Black >> abstain. >> Okay, the motion passes. >> All right, I move um we approve 7.03 board meeting minutes February 2, 2026. >> Oh, second. >> A motion and a second have been heard. Any discussion? Please call the role. Mrs. Patton >> McMillan >> I >> Blastic >> I >> Gerky >> I >> Winsky >> I >> Kelly
052Black >> abstain >> Kazminski >> I >> The motion passes >> all right 7.04 4. I move we approve close session meeting minutes for January 20th and January 22nd, 2026. >> Second. >> A motion and second have been heard. Any discussion? >> Melissa. >> Um I just want to reiterate I also say this quite frequently at the meetings is one of the concerns is that we list when um we do not go into detail about the closed door. We are required. There are certain reasons that we can have a closed door meeting. There are certain topics we're allowed to go in there by law that we have the option. We're not required to. We can. However, we are required once those items do not meet the requirement. Like say there's a real estate, we don't
053want the community to know, we don't want prices, somebody to buy it. We that would be a closed door discussion. Although once that is passed that would be an open door. We would have to release that in our minutes. We don't release any of the details. This provides a lot of confusion as to what's allowed to be released, what's not, what's required to be released and isn't. If we just have a very general statement um that's left to interpretation and also the minutes are supposed to be a way for say somebody misses a meeting or we have new board members, there can be a lot of change. This is a way to document what decisions were made, what dis what was discussed, so there's continuity and understanding. So until the minutes um actually reflect more
054information versus just general blurbs, I vote no. >> Any other discussion? >> I just would like to correct one little point. I don't want to be argumentative. I just want to make sure that there's a point of clarity in regarding the lease of of minutes from close session. um minutes from a closed session are not released to the public until the board of education has voted to release them. So simply because a closed session topic may have resolved um within a short period of time of the closed session, the minutes remain confidential and protected under the open meetings act until an action is taken by the board. So I just want to make sure that point was clear. And and also just to add on, we do as a board um review that periodically. >>
055Yeah, there's not and there's not a requirement for a verb uh verbatim handwritten notes. There's a verbatim verbal recording as required by the law. >> Okay. Just clarify just in case, >> Melissa. Um >> I don't think I was >> Okay, go ahead. >> Um just to clarify, I understand that the board meetings need to be released. The problem is as a board member, say there was something that was discussed that I think is relevant and want to talk about at a board meeting um and it's under the open meetings act it would be approved and needs to be released. Um, if you leave that as very general and we don't when we release the notes, what has happened is there's been controversy and I'm asking for more clarification when the notes are released at
056the closed door minutes. They do not have to be verbatim, but I spoke to the state's attorney's office and they do need to be more than just the blurbs from the the legislation that says you can remove this topic of say litigation. Um they need to be a little more than that. Thank you. >> Any other discussion? Okay, please call the role. Mrs. Patton. >> Kelly Black. >> Nay. >> McMillan. >> I >> Kazinsky. >> Hi. >> Winsky. >> I. >> Gerky. >> I. >> Blastic. >> I. >> The motion passes. All right. We are still on 7.04. I move the approval of close session minutes for February 2nd, 2026. >> Second. >> A motion and second have been heard. Any discussion? >> Please call the role. Mrs. Patton. >> Gerie. >> I. >> Kazminsky.
057I >> McMillan >> I >> Winsky >> I >> Kelly Black >> no nay >> blastic >> I the motion passes item 7.05 memorandum of agreement >> I move approval of number 7.05 05 memorandum of agreement. >> Second. >> A motion and second have been heard. Any discussion? >> I do have a discussion. Is there anything that's specifically being pulled or can because it's a consent agenda. Can we just approve all them? Is there anything that specifically needs to be pulled? >> I've asked for them to be pulled. >> You asked for all them pulled. Okay. >> I didn't ask for those to be broken up the notes the minutes like that, but I understand because there was absence that they did that proactively. >> Gotcha. Okay. >> Um >> Okay. Any discussion? Motion a
058second have been heard. Any discussion on 7.05? Melissa? >> Yes. So, one of the things you'll frequently hear us talk about as a board is our board agreed and we even stated earlier in the board meeting that part of this is no surprises and that's to apply to the superintendent and to the board members. Um, I was just notified as I came when I received this on Thursday. We receive it on Thursday afternoon, early evening. Um, and we have executive. I could see what the memorandum was. There was a memorandum on there which I approved and then I was just told when I got to this meeting that they were adding another memorandum. Here's my objection. I don't think that follows board pro policy. I will tell you that the memorandum is to address the
059deficit. So, but this deficit did not happen overnight. So, to have us have to make a memorandum decision with only one hour's notice, that means I, as a board member, didn't get it. It also doesn't give our community the opportunity to see what the memorandum is and to provide feedback. So, I object to that. However, I would like to also add to this that so I would like for the memorandums to be separated um so we could vote for each one. I am fully came here fully prepared to vote on the first one. The second memorandum I will say that I am not voting necessarily. There was a memorandum that came about that a lot of people worked very hard together and I commend that. But I think for the district to move faster than
060the board members can be aware of or that the community to be aware of is that's not okay. Um I also want to say in regards to this this is addressing that deficit. I just learned within the last week that the deficit was going to be addressed by streamlining um uh jobs, salaries. I don't recall having that conversation. If somebody watched a board meeting I missed, I'd like to know because my understanding is that as you see by the reports, I intentionally did that. that deficit amount is what we are over in capital outlay. So that is called that those are building and equipment. I'm not saying we don't need that but we talked about buying the trans getting the transportation building because you know we want to keep our bus drivers. We want to
061have that building really nice. We don't want them you know having these bathrooms. However, they're right now functioning. I in good conscious and I've said this in the past I don't think and I think there needs to be >> any other discussion can we separate out the two memorandums okay any other discussion okay so >> move it based on the title of the MOA um I just would like to um as the board is aware background information regarding the second memorandum of understanding was provided to the board of educ education as part of its background material prior to this evening. >> The the first one, correct? >> No, ma'am. Both uh there was >> Oh, but only the first one was set for agenda. So, I did not know it was not set. >> Thanks.
062Um >> and we were not able to ask questions. >> Um okay. So, we need to amend the motion first. >> I will I will move for 7.05 05 memorandum of agreement specifically the MOA on application of FMLA >> second motion and second have been heard any discussion >> okay please call the role Mrs. Patton >> Kelly Black >> I >> blastic >> I >> McMillan >> I >> Kazminsky >> I >> Winsky >> I >> Girky >> I the motion passes >> all right so we're going to move uh I move the approval of 7.05 05 memorandum of agreement for the MOA one-time retirement incentive. >> Second. >> Motion a second have been heard. Any discussion? >> Okay. Please call a role. Mrs. Patton. >> Blastic. >> I. >> Winsky. >> I. >> Kelly
063Black. >> Nay. >> Cosminsky. >> I. >> McMillan. >> I. >> Gerky. >> I. The motion passes. >> All right. I move approval of 7.06. 06 bid for fax and PLTW at Kennedy Junior High School in Washington Junior High School. >> Oh, second. >> Motion and second have been heard. Any discussion, >> Melissa? in the amount that we are voting on. I'm asking is it listed the amount that we're voting on for the facts in the No, I see it on the report. I have it. It's in the amount packages listed. >> Yeah. Each each bid is list is each um type of job is itemized. >> Yeah. I don't have my computer up. Can you just tell me what it says? >> Hold on. >> And this I understand is an update versus this
064was not in the original spending. >> No, this is part of the entire project. We are now getting the itemized list for the each piece of the project. >> Hi. Hi. Um, the uh total of all of the 15 bid packages for this project is 3,893,318. >> Okay. >> And just can you tell us, sorry, Melanie, what the board approved? >> Nothing. Oh, so the total project cost for Kennedy um back in June um was $7 million for the total project at Kennedy. previously um as part of the capital improvement plan when we asked for fund 60 to cover the remainder of the fax and project lead the way um rooms uh was approximately 750,000 per classroom and that's all in total architecture furniture construction management all of that. So, um, but what this is
065is the actual contractor amounts for each bid package for them to actually do the work and supply the materials and labor. Okay? And the reason I bring this up is that again is 4 million where this is for a new fax room and uh PLTW rooms. Um, if we knew this deficit was coming, I have concerns. Yes, we want to update those our fax rooms and it would be nice to have nice rooms, but again, if we're talking about addressing our our deficit when we're over on capital outlay by that much to keep adding to that I I have a problem with because again, this is nonoperating. This doesn't necessarily this is not direct instruction to our students. So I if we cut salaries and we cut staffing positions that could possibly harm instruction and
066um the education of our students which is primary. So I think if we knew this deficit was coming that we keep spending this much on these items but then we turn around and quickly within a week we want to start streamlining jobs. I I am not for that. Amanda. >> Okay. [clears throat] One thing I just want to clarify because what I keep hearing you say is we're spending all this money on capital and then we're um trying to do a reduction in force, right? That's what you're like, we shouldn't be doing that. That's what I hear you saying. Is that right? >> This is You want the honest answer, Amanda? And I appreciate you asking that. What I'm saying is that number one, why are we doing it this late into the budget trying
067to solve a problem that was that deficit didn't just happen overnight? And I'm saying it because and I'm pointing out the capital outlier specifically because it's not instruction and because we far exceeded what we budgeted for this year. And then I can't tell you and I think this is the misnomer. How can we say where we're going to cut the budget? That's where I go back to the bills and claims. That's where I go back to looking at these reports and not just saying the solution to salaries. Our salaries have not changed that much. They're steady. We're as of those reports we looked at earlier from the end of December, we had like 40ome percent we'd only spent of our salary. So this deficit is not it is not we are spending what we said
068we would spend in salaries when we made this budget. What we're not doing is spending within the budget for those capital projects. So again I think there needs to not be a rush within one week to start laying off teachers or early retirement and doing all these to our salaried employees >> time. >> Okay. >> All right. And I am timing myself. Okay, >> I can try. >> All right. Okay. So, I want to be very clear that I hear your side, but I don't agree. Okay. So the way that I look at it is that when it comes to the important components of operations, right? If you look at it like a job, all right, I work a full-time job and that salary pays all my bills, right? My operations in my household. If
069I'm lucky enough to have a good year or a bonus or whatever, then I'm going to put money aside in my savings account. And that money in that savings account is going to go towards paying for things that come up like crap, I need a new water heater. Oh my goodness, I need a new roof. Oh, you know what? Actually, I'm going to get myself a nice old car. Or you know what? I need to buy a new house. Right? But those are one-time costs that I've set my savings account aside for those special costs that come up with life, right? But I would never use depend on that savings account to pay for every single bill that I have because there's nothing that's co going into that. If my regular salary doesn't pay for
070my bills, my operations, and I'm depending on my savings account to do that, that savings account is going to go out and then all of a sudden I'm in debt even further and further and further and further. What you are talking about is the capital outlay or the money that we set aside is our savings account that is set aside for one time. You're disagreeing, but this is my understanding. This uh capital outlay, this money set aside for these one-time expenditures to help enhance our facilities based off of what we need cannot go well, they could go towards operational costs, but we're not spending within our means then. for uh killing our savings account for things that we are just pushing the uh bucket down the line. So what we really need to do is
071figure out a way to um stay within our operational costs of the revenue that we have consistently coming in every single day. So this uh idea that oh we're overspending on our capital money that is first of all that money is spent based on when the bills come in right so like if we get build on a project that we worked on in the summer but we're paying for it in October like we did it in June and we get paid in October well then it goes into the next year's budget but it doesn't mean that we over spent it. It was all within our plan right now. This is uh this is my time. >> Okay. >> And I am still within my 3 minutes. I have 20 seconds left. So, I just want
072to say that I feel like you're putting out misinformation and fear-mongering amongst people saying that we have money that we actually don't have because you want us to spend our savings account and that's not okay. So, anyways, what I hear you saying is that we are actually spending under our budget that we approved for you for all of these projects with our capital outlay and that's my time. >> That is correct. Any other? Oh, Holly. >> Um, I just wanted to follow up specifically kind of on the timeline of these. If I recall, and you'll have to refresh my memory, the Kennedy one project was one we originally planned to do earlier. And part of this was kind of a streamlining and recognition that we could combine that with other things, being more efficient both
073in disrupting the school and planning this one. And it involves bringing in students from those units and bringing them into the actual school. Is that correct? Yeah, that's correct. And I'd also like to add that um this is programmatic that the board of education a few years ago approved um the plan to update our project lead the way and fax spaces in all of our middle schools. So, this is really finishing that plan which does include this additional piece for Kennedy that's about the safety and security of our students. Thank you for clarifying that because those units for me, not only is this like an educational improvement to those spaces for these students, but those units and having students outside of the building and swiping in and opening that door, it was a severe security
074concern for me and just the condition of those. So, I'm really glad that you were able to think ahead um and and move this back a year in order to accommodate those, you know, and I just last week was hearing from a seventh grader about how wonderful PLTW is, and I've toured these rooms, so I'm really glad to see that these other two schools will have parody with schools that have already updated their rooms. other discussion >> or unless we approve >> I just want I think >> but Melissa Melissa we have our agreements to the three minutes >> it's not >> um any other discussion on >> I just want to summarize a couple of key points at and under budget on what was uh previously approved by the board of education and uh
075facility improvements to support programming require required as a part of our junior high school uh overall uh exploratory program. Thank you. >> Actually um can I just help my memory? Um these projects are part of our fund balance um draw down our policy that says to come with us with one-time expense type thing. >> Policy 420 indicates that once we exceed board set aside range in our fund balance, we'll come to the board of education with recommendations to draw that down. This is one of them. >> Okay. Thanks for just reminding me. Okay. Any other discussion? Okay. I heard a motion in a second. Um >> no, we have three minutes per board member as this was agreed upon in our self-evaluation and >> and I typically notice been honoring that. But if miss something
076I think is misinformation or we can provide clarification. >> We've but at the same time we said three minutes. So, we just need to be succinct with the three minutes that we have. >> Thank you. >> Please call the role. Mrs. Patton. >> Kelly Black. >> Nay. >> Winsky. >> I. >> Gerky. >> I. >> McMillan. >> I. >> Cuzinsky. >> I. >> Plastic. >> I. >> The motion passes. >> All right. Last one. Um, I move we approve 7.07, the bid for the transportation facility. >> Second. >> A motion. A second been heard. Any discussion? >> Yes, >> Melissa. >> So, if I go to the budget, so when we talk about this, what I'm saying is this is what we approved saying this is what we're going to spend on each area. So,
077it's not Amanda, it's like this. It's like you saying that each year you say this year my salary is X. So, I can cover my I don't know your situation, your rent, your healthcare, all those things. And then like you're saying, you're not going to go buy a hot tub. it means it's going to cut into your savings. I agree with you. I don't think we want to do that as a board. But what I'm saying is if we didn't budget, we budget for the backyard and we budget $22 million to do the backyard and all of a sudden we're spending, you know, 40 50 million on the backyard, that's a hot tub, some other stuff. No, we don't want to do it. And it all does come from the budget. and this is what
078we agreed upon to spend. So if we throughout the year that's correct that we can agree to spend more than that budget but then we would be accountable for that. So like the transportation we did not budget for that well if that was coming up that's where I talk about fiscal responsibility of planning ahead that that transportation situation didn't come up overnight. It should have been six months ago when we signed this. it should have been in there because that way it keeps us accountable and within budget. So what I'm saying is no, I'm not saying don't do any on and m or don't do any capital projects, but there's something wrong if we're saying we're only spending 20 to a million on capital and capital outlays. Well, that was actually 32 million and we
079go over that then that's the problem. So I agree with you. We don't spend for extras. I don't want us dipping into our reserves, but I think there needs to be some accountability for our budget not matching up with what we're spending. >> Any other discussion, Joe? >> Yeah. So, um first, uh I I want to uh thank you again for uh bringing this uh set of bids in uh under budget. Um and uh kind of uh uh playing off what Amanda said uh earlier, um the if we had budgeted for the transportation facility, you know, even before this, it would still be coming out of that fund balance because it's such a huge expense, right? We we chose to uh bring it out of the fund balance in you know over the summer after
080the budget was passed. But um you know if we had said uh you know last year in January before we approved the budget for this year we want to do the new transportation facility and draw down our fund balance to be in compliance with our own policies. Um that would have still come from the fund balance line. that wouldn't have come from the operating budget, right? Um so, [snorts] uh you know, this is one of those, you know, projects, these capital projects that, uh, you know, you just have to do from time to time. It's a one-term one-time, uh, expense. And in my mind, this is also an investment for the long-term future of the district with the, uh, renewable energy and infrastructure uh, improvements that we're putting in there. Um, so, uh, I think
081this is a good investment and strategic investments like this are also good because it'll be saving money down the road, uh, for the district. >> Set the timer. >> Okay. [laughter] Um, I would also add that I think the transportation center, um, it's not the best analogy, but using the water heater, that was the water heater. Um, we had been bandating that building [clears throat] for a long time and it just was no longer it came about because there was a a very specific tipping point. Um, >> yeah, we had ongo we as you said we've had ongoing issues with this um and by the spring um late spring about May it reached a point where really any dollar we spent on there was going toward nothing. I mean to to all to the bad.
082Uh and really it was in a condition, remember we talk about the building, the building was mobile units that were parked in the parking lot that well exceeded uh their their time their usable timeline. Um and we had explored other options. We continued to explore other options uh in May uh and found that the most viable long-term most economical solution uh was the recommendation that the board approved in August of 2025. And you are correct due to the size of this expense. This not would would not have come out of our annual operating budget. This would have been a use of fund balance dollars regardless of when it was approved. >> Thank you, Holly. Um, and I I just wanted to clarify too that I think it was last May because of the condition of
083the building, we're currently paying about $3,000 a month to have our staff um in a rented place as we're waiting. >> It's more than >> about $4,000 and uh it requires um really a uh a less than ideal uh crossing for our drivers from parking to the office. So that this um approving this bid and this project is both now going to save us the $4,000 a month. It's going to put an energy efficient building right on the ideal best site um for our students and operations of the district. It gives a decent, respectful, appropriate place for our staff to have proper plumbing and a good environment to be in. And then one thing I I think you answered for me in a past meeting is I had the misconception that maybe this is only
084used in the morning or only in the evening or only during the school year, but this is continually used year round, not just in those peak um school bus hours. So I think it's a really important investment and I really appreciate um the extra work you did for the energy efficiency and how this is going to be something that um our investment is going to be paid back with the heat pumps and the solar and things. Any other discussion? Oh, Mark, go ahead. [clears throat] >> Yeah, thank you. Uh, ju just one comment, you know, I I really support this project. Just um on a kind of a tangental uh place. Uh given that we are coming in under budget, it would be great to make sure we keep track of the benefits of it
085at the lower cost. So I don't know how the the lower cost gets allocated between the um uh environmental piece and and the structure itself, but if any of that reduction in cost is is is impacting the uh solar and the geothermal, uh that means we're probably going to have less than a six-year payback and more than $4.3 million in savings. So I I think that's something we should all be very very happy about. >> Amanda, did you have a minute? >> Melissa. >> Okay. Just to again I feel like as I've listened to them, I am not against the tra transportation facility. I am not against capital projects. What I see is that when they say we're within budget, that was a global big budget we got in the beginning before we got the
086bids. And anyone who does construction knows you always overestimate what you think you're going to spend. So when you say you came in under budget doesn't mean that there was you know one of the things that we have is we have Melanie is a great employee. She was 16 years I think in our business department. But on the other hand I'm not sure you had construction experience going into this. I know that what I'm saying is if we're spending this much on capital projects we if you look at our reports a lot of times we rei rely on the construction company where when I went to the IASB meetings a lot of times it is good to there are organ you know there are groups we could hire it might be worth it to have
087somebody in between that you know I'm not saying Melanie don't you do your job or replace me not at all what I'm saying >> is to watch the spending I if I can I just want to mention that we do work with architects and construction management and project management to determine these estimates. This is not Mrs. Brown's responsibility to come up with estimates. They are done by professionals who are often very close to um the final project cost and that is actually that is actually noted in the memorandum regard with the recommendation for the bidding of collaboration that includes construction managers, architects, engineers uh staff that we have regarding the need uh our own staff beyond Ms. Brown who has demonstrated excellence in her role as the director of buildings and grounds and as a
088longtime uh district employee to ensure that we do come within budget as planned. And as the board knows at times when we our actual bids come in and they are not within what we have we have estimated or told you, we recommend the board reject those bids as was the case with some rigging uh at Neighborville North. So, uh, this is under a very watchful eye. We recognize the investment that is put into our facilities, uh, and the importance of being good stewards of of of these dollars. And so, every care was taken to ensure that we fell within the oversight that the board of education provided to us uh, in order to uh, meet our facility objective. >> And I we've reached our time. It's just they financially benefit. >> Melissa, you've reached your
089time. >> Okay. Any other discussion? >> Thank you both, Chuck and Melanie, for both of those projects and the work you've been doing on them. It's very much appreciated. I've heard a motion and a second. Uh, call the role. Mrs. Patton. >> Blastic. >> I. >> Kelly Black. >> Nay. >> Winsky. >> I. >> Gerie. I. >> McMillan. >> Hi. Cuz I >> the motion passes. Item eight, communications 8.01, written communications have been loaded for review. Okay. Item eight. Oh. Oh, sorry, Melissa. Um, I just wanted to make note that um somebody did there is a written communication. Somebody did ask um sent in and asked to see copies of my Hoyos and any information I requested about me. Um and I I do want to say that one of the things that I've had
090to do if you were able to look at those FOYAs, I might as well just read the statement in regards to we see as an executive what I I foyed. So um I want to briefly address the freedom of information as act requests I submitted regarding documentation connected to the superintendent attendance employment contract compensation reimbursements and performance evaluation evidence after repeated attempts to obtain the information through normal board communications. I've had to submit foyer requests seeking records such as compensation documentation, reimbursements, travel related expenditures, contract related payments, and documentation supporting superintendent performance evaluation goals tied to student learning and district planning. While the district provided some materials, other records were identified as not existing, withheld under exemption, redirected to public websites, or designated as unduly burdensome to produce. As a board member, my responsibility is
091to ensure that decisions, especially those involving contracts, compensation, and evaluations are based on clear documentation and viable information. When board members cannot easily access information necessary to perform oversight responsibilities, it raises governance concerns that should matter to the entire community. My intent in submitting these requests is not to create conflict, but to ensure transparency, accountability, and informed decision-making consistent with our fiduciary duty to taxpayers, staff, and students. I'm just going to make a quick clarification. Um, the material that Miss Kelly Black references is having to head to Foya in order to receive is available to every board member as well as community members. um if they visit our website. Um as far as the financial documentation that has been referenced that's been inaccessible, that is accessible every month during our bills and claims process. Every
092board member can see the entire checkbook, credit card statement, whatever you want to call it. Um that has been um always been what's been available to me in my nine years on the board, and I'm sure it's been available long before then. Um so I that that misinformation cannot be left out in the public. Additionally, I am concerned to um hear that this information is not available from a board member who has refused to participate in the process that is makes it incredibly transparent. And also uh we've had our legal team review this several times. memos are continually loaded that the there's no transparency issues. Our auditor has uh at our when he was here the last time made it abundantly clear that the process we have for reviewing our finances goes above and beyond
093anything he has seen in other districts and feels that it is a great practice that we participate in. So I just want to clarify for the community that uh nothing has been hidden in any way, shape or form. Okay, Melissa, >> I can't I have the papers right in front of me. I'm not going to argue here. What this individual did was they foyed that themselves. You can foyer it. I'm not making up the letters. And to me, this is a basic trust issue with the board. I'm asking you to foyer it. If I'm lying that this is accessible, why did I foyer it? and why is it not all available? Um, it's simply not true. And instead of arguing here, I suggest you foyer that information. >> Okay. Again, I'm not trying to be
094argumentative, but it's very difficult to sit on on the board at and sit in in leadership and to hear uh misinformation being shared with the community. So in addition to whatever a community feels that they want a foyer, that's perfectly okay. That is not the argument here. The argument is that the misinformation is not it it's just that it is misinformation that a board member continually puts out. I know for a fact that this board member has received past evaluations because I emailed them to all the board members on the last cycle. I also know for a fact that the contract not only is available on the website, I emailed that same link to every board member in the last evaluation so that we could compare what we are contractually obligated to honor along with
095the evaluation process. I I emailed the the process. I emailed a timeline. I emailed the previous and I [snorts] emailed blank documents so people could make their own notes as we began the process. nothing is being hidden and it frustrates me that the community is hearing this information and I do believe firmly that the community is wise enough and savvy enough that they do find this information when they need it. It is available to all of us whether we sit at this table or we're at home watching this meeting. >> Thank you. Can we release? >> I believe the rule is that once the individual receives it, they can correct me. We don't we only respond to the individual. Correct. It is not public. We don't put >> But if you're calling me a liar,
096I'd like >> I'm not calling you a liar. I'm saying there's misinformation out there. >> Well, then let's correct. >> We have to complicated. We got 10 seconds left. >> You guys are really making me work tonight. [laughter] >> I'm saying that this is we get this a lot in our meetings. Just release it and let the public decide versus making everyone it time has your time is expired. >> Point of order is taken. >> Correct. Okay. All right. Board of Education reports. Does anyone uh wish to give a brief update on something they have done in their official capacity as a board member as it relates to our committee assignments, unique events at our adopted schools or select special district events? Joe, >> yeah, I had the opportunity to uh sit in on the
097last um association uh leadership meeting um and I always appreciate uh that opportunity. We get to sit in on uh one meeting a year um and get to hear from uh the association leadership um and the administration and kind of get a little um you know behind the scenes uh on on what's going on in the discussions that are happening. So I really appreciate uh that insight. >> Amanda, >> yes. So, this wasn't technically part of my board responsibility, but as part of the district, I participated as a parent. Um, but I just wanted to give kudos to district 203 and their information series around how AI is being used in schools. I participated in the last webinar. I definitely it's um in our talk 203 if any other uh anyone else has time or
098capacity to register for these u webinars it's really informative to understand how our district is approaching AI and helping our students um prepare for the future but not uh try to limit their ability to think for themselves right um and also most importantly keeping our student information private it uh by using closed AI um resources and also how they're teaching students how to think critically about what AI can and cannot do. Um so it's really comprehensive. I found it very informative and so I just want to thank the district for taking the lead on that. I know there's a couple others coming up and so I encourage you to participate. >> Other board reports. >> I just have one thing. Um I want to thank the community. Um, I was at the steam event at
099Ranch View and um, it was a big fair and of course the kids were having a great time, but I really um, like I said want to thank the community because that fair is manned by groups um, outside groups. So, park district scout groups um, some of the clubs from the high school uh, the both high schools were there. Um, conservation foundation was there. I'm trying to remember everybody that I saw. It was it was really highlighting how the community comes together and they had booths for the kids to do some exploring, maybe sign up if there was a camp, you know, an activity, something that they really were interested in. So, um, to see the community all come together for an evening just at that one school. I know it happens throughout the district.
100Um, but I want to thank all of the groups and I'm sorry I I don't mention every single name, but um, thank you to the community for supporting our students and fostering that curiosity um, that they they all have. Item 8.3, we do not have a president's report. 8.04, the superintendent staff school report. Yeah, I I do want to briefly invite our parents and guardians to participate in the annual Illinois five essentials survey uh which is now open. As a district, we rely on data to make informed decisions about our school climates and goals. While we look closely at many metrics, the five essentials survey provides us with something equally important. Your perspective on how well we are connecting with our families. Your responses help us understand if you feel informed about your child's progress
101and if you feel the school is a welcoming environment for all families. The feedback is essential as we work toward our district goals regarding equity and student support services. Survey is anonymous and takes about 10 minutes. We need at least 20% participation for your school's data to be reported, but we are aiming for much higher to ensure we have a representative uh sample of our entire community. Uh thank you for your input. >> Okay. Thank you. item. U Melissa, >> I just wanted to tack on to one thing I have been hearing from community members regarding what Mr. Bridges said is there parents there's messages going out telling our parents not to do the five essential survey worried about confidentiality. Um I want I do want to reiterate what Mr. Bridges said in regards to
102we I know I do look at this information and I know the district does and it goes on our report cards. So, I do I know we get a lot of information or things from the district thrown at us as parents, but please take the time. This is this allows us to hear your voice. Thank you. Anyone else? Okay. Item nine, discussion without action. We do not have any items tonight. Item 10, discussion with action 10.01, general and optional fees. >> Okay. Proposed general and participation school fees were brought to the board of education at the February 2 meeting for discussion without action. Uh we recommend the board of education approve uh the FY2027 fees uh as presented. >> Move approval of item 10.01 general and optional fees. >> Second a motion a second been
103heard. Any discussion? Okay. Please call the role. Mrs. Benton >> Kelly Black >> I >> Blastic >> I >> Winsky >> I >> Kazinsky >> I >> McMillan >> I >> Gerky >> I the motion passes item 10.02 high school course fees >> annually the board of education is asked to approve high school course fees uh recommendations for high school course fees were presented to the board of education at the February 2nd 2026 meeting. I request action uh this evening and I recommend that you approve the 2026 2027 high school course fees as presented. >> Move approval of item 10.02 high school course fees. >> Second. >> A motion and second have been heard. Any discussion? >> Okay. Call the role. Mrs. Patton, please. >> Blastic. >> I. >> Kosinsky. >> I. >> Gerie. >>
104I. >> Kelly Black. >> I. >> McMillan. >> I. >> Winsky. >> I. The motion passes. Item 10.03, establish hourly rates of pay. >> Uh annually, the administration reviews uh hourly rates of pay for select employees throughout the district. Recommendations for the 2026 2027 school year uh were presented to the board of education for discussion without action at the February 2, 2026 meeting. I recommend you approve those as presented this evening. >> Can I have a motion? Move approval of item 10.03, establish hourly rates of pay. >> Second. >> A motion and second have been heard. Any discussion, Amanda? >> Actually want to just be very transparent that my wife has in the past been a substitute teacher and probably will in the future. So, I'm going to abstain from this vote. >> Thank you.
105Any other discussion? Okay. Please call the role. Mrs. Patton. Oh. Oh, sorry. Melissa, >> I do have a question. Somebody in the community sent this to me in the past week and I thank you for sharing that with us and abstaining, you know. Um, but they had mentioned that 204 that their board members at times will substitute. Um, is that something that we could do in our district? >> I think it requires a much larger GR conversation than just this. Um, you know, I I'd have to weigh both sides of that and I'd need a little bit time for that to be uh to looked at and so I would love our own legal perspective regarding that as well. >> Okay. No, I was just saying because I think that that gives um the board
106members a valuable chance to we don't get on the front lines a lot. So to be in somebody else's shoes, I think I know the times that I've been able to go into schools and see teachers and see programs, it's been very valuable to me. So maybe at a future board meeting we can bring that up. Any other discussion? Okay. Please call the role. Mrs. Patent. >> Winsky. >> I. >> McMillan. >> Abstain. >> Blastic. >> I. >> Cuzinsky. >> I. >> Gerky. >> I. >> Kelly Black. >> I. >> The motion passes. Item 10.04, the draft school year 28 calendar. >> Okay. Okay. Uh administration uh has over multiple meetings brought recommendation from the school calendar committee uh for a 2027 2022 I think that's important to remember this is not next year a
107draft for 2027 2028 uh to the the board for its consideration uh based on uh feedback from members of the board of education. Uh we have provided an alter alternate uh calendar also. Uh both are loaded in board docs. Uh and so um administration has previously recommended the approval of the cal the calendar committee's recommendation but we've provided for uh a second one for consideration by the board. Board will have to make a recommendation regarding one of the two calendars. >> I'm sorry. Did I take a motion on that one yet? >> Okay. Let's >> figure out which one. Okay. >> Discussion. >> So, all right. We'll do we'll do it backwards this time. We'll do discussion and then I'll take the motion. Okay. Discussion on the calendar. Holly, go ahead. >> All right. Um,
108first I wanted to say thank you for bringing this alternate calendar because I know I've been um a little loud on this one and I appreciate that the alternate has a May 18th start date. Um, I >> August. Oh my goodness. Nobody wants to start in May. We don't want to be out in May either. I've been looking at the numbers too long. So, August 18th start date in 2027. Um, this I have a question following up on one someone else submitted. I didn't submit it myself, but I understand the calendar committee has four parents or guardians on it as well as members of different unions and staff. Do can you share how many of those parents and guardians are also staff members of the school? Before we answer that, I'm actually going to say
109in the future, I think based on the conversations we've had this year and the fact that it's been probably 10 plus years, um I my recommendation would be over the summer we engage in a conversation with the board regarding our uh criteria uh to have a little bit more specificity and determination about, you know, whether they're all still the same. So, I'd rather just hold on that and say I think we need to look at the whole process itself. Um yeah, I I just I I think um I think one thing that uh based on especially our student voice and I don't know if William has an opinion here um having finals done and having a semester completed before the end of the first semester has frequently been a top concern or request by our
110by our students. So >> I think I would still like an answer to that question because even though we might revisit the parameters or how the committee is made up, I would like to know how many parents who are not staff members were on that committee. Um, okay. So, this is none of the parent guardians that I invited were also staff members. However, I believe that several of the staff members are parents. >> We had multiple groups. So, yeah. Does that make sense? >> Well, so when I was looking through the categories, it was NUA members, administrative staff, and I and it did mention that some people could be in two categories. And kind of by deduction, I felt like the only category you could also be in besides being NUA or in the administrative
111is also parents. So that made me assume that some of those four parents on the committee were also staff members. It's just a possibility that they could. Okay. Thank you. Um so just to follow up, um again, thank you for this alternate calendar. Thank you for listening to the parents. Um, and I look forward to being able over the summer to come up with parameters um, that reflect specifically the needs of parents more. Um, and hopefully clarify too because I understand one of the things was consider was the DUP page roles calendar. Um, and whether or not we as a board want to consider what DUP page thinks or we want to think about what Neighborville, Lyall, Woodridge and our parents here in 203 want. So, but thank you for this alternative. Other discussion or
112questions? Mark, >> thank you. And I'm I'm very glad with what Superintendent Bridges just mentioned because I think I felt very uneasy. The process didn't seem like it it it was really taking into consideration um all the input that was out there. And I think that was reinforced when I saw the response that Holly was uh referring to that uh maybe we do need to get a larger number of people from the community involved in this to really get uh a better sense of of how parents feel. Uh so I'm very glad that uh Superintendent Bridges did mention that we will look at what the criteria is for the board. Uh and maybe we do need to get more specific. Uh and that also we should look at the composition and what the uh is
113the is the committee really having the hard discussions that they need to to come to u an answer at the end of the day that maybe is not to everyone's satisfaction but does meet most of the needs of the community. So I'm very glad we're going to do that. >> That is one guarantee I can make about the school calendar. It will not meet everybody's preference. >> Melissa, um I was not here last week, but I do say all the feedback I received, Holly, they praised you for really pushing it and and I think what we've heard tonight is and I liked your question because one of the things I I consistently hear about is parents want to know that are passionate or want to contribute. We have a we have smart families that really
114care about education and what we do. Um, one of the things I've brought up in the past is that we don't have any committees, board committees. So, like ours are superintendent committees, which I believe are by invitation. So, you're kind of picking the people where it might be time for us to consider having more of a way because one of the things as a board we wanted to work on, I believe, was our our communication directly. A big part of what we're to do as board members is just to communicate and listen to the community directly. And this way, by having committees, we're not relying on just hearing from the few people that email us that may not represent the whole. And I think that, you know, there has been a lot of criticisms of
115the board maybe not aligning with the community. So that might be something we want to talk about. And this is a perfect example of no, we won't get everyone to agree, but I think that it's important that the board find ways to reach out and listen and have agency in it versus I'm not saying we cut any of Mr. Bridg's committees, but it might be nice if we have our own and maybe we have a different it's not just by invitation. So that would be something else I think we should look at. >> I just do want to again remind every committee that we do have has board liaison representation assigned to it. >> But we as a board don't uh can I I'm sorry. >> Um Amanda I'll uh >> you decide Amanda what
116you want to do. >> Um Melissa I I'm chairing the meeting tonight. Amanda go ahead. Um, so what I'm hearing everybody saying is that and I know for myself I prefer because there was this is the first time in my five years that anybody has ever emailed about the calendar um beyond maybe like a coach that's like hey what about these regionals or something like that. So, um, we've gotten, you know, a handful of of people public comment and so and with that that consensus and Holly's rationale, I genuinely, um, support the second calendar with the August 18th start date and ending May well before Memorial Day. Um, so I, so I would like to make a motion to approve that calendar um, if that's okay. Um, so I we can still have discussion. I
117just wanted to let you know that that's what I'm uh presenting. >> Second. >> Okay. So, a motion and a second have been made regarding the second calendar with the later start date. Any discussion on that one? Yeah, this is for the calendar piece. Just the >> just going along with what Mr. Burch just said about the committee is that again, >> hold on. the the motion the discussion is on the calendar. We're not discussing the committees tonight. >> Well, it was part of this conversation. I just want to remind everyone I'm still not I've been removed from all committees and school assignments. >> Okay, I'm going to I'm going to interject right here. >> So, I would like a way to talk to the community. >> That's not part of the discussion. That's not
118an agenda item. If you have comments or questions on the second version that has >> on the agenda for next week >> that that's a process that took place in the summer. >> Yeah. And I'm still not. So how am I a board member connect with the community? >> This is not you can certainly go out and talk with community members. They're feel we're not having this. It's not an agenda item and that has always been the rule. It is not an agenda item. We're not discussing it. Do you have any questions on the second calendar version? Okay. other discussion. Um I just have one comment. Um the the second calendar version is easy this time because it was such a a a straightforward shift of three days and then three days into that uh
119week in December. Um I don't for me don't want the calendar committee um and I certainly don't want you Dr. Nolton to think I am overriding your suggestions and any of the work that you have put because I know this this one takes up a little bit of time. Um so um I I am um uh leaning towards a yes vote on this calendar because it's it's a clean move. Um but I will say I am concerned about that week in December and our attendance. I have a feeling that that might be viewed as an easy way to extend Christmas break to three weeks or winter break to three weeks. Um so um that's just going to always be back in the back of my mind because we talk about our attendance now as it
120is. Um and I'm not trying to be like oh mean you should be in school. I just am fearful that people are going to take advantage because they don't want to wait until the 23rd or 24th to to get out of town or do whatever it is they're going to do with family. So, um that's my only concern. Um but I really can't wait for the conversation on board priorities on this one. >> Yeah, >> we're we're due and I and I'm not trying to it's we're just >> Yeah, I'll Yeah, agree. And I you know, I'm gonna uh provide opinion here. So, um I think we followed the same process and it's essentially the same skeleton of a calendar that we always have. >> It's just the way the calendar rotates that pushes it
121up to the earliest it could be. Um and so it is kind of a the old calendar, the previous recommendation. I think the other thing that we are going to have to watch very closely uh which is part of the rationale on kind of following that the county um is our staff attendance simply because of living in neighboring districts uh who may follow within the county follow a different calendar might pose some challenges for us. >> Other discussion. Okay. Um I heard a motion and a second on the second calendar. Please call the role. Mrs. Patton. >> McMillan. >> I. >> Kelly Black. >> I. >> Blastic. >> I. >> Kazinski. >> I. >> Gerky. >> I. >> Winsky. >> I. >> The motion passes. Item 11, old business. We do not have any old
122business. Item 12, new business. We do not have any new business. >> Melissa, >> new business. I would like to have an agenda item discussing my ability to be reinstated in committees and on school school um assignments because a vital part of my job is to know what's going on. If I'm not at committee meetings, I don't know what's going on. If I don't have school assignments, I'm not hearing. The other thing I'd like to say is it's been almost three years according to our policies. I'm allowed to have agenda items. Again, I have never had an agenda item placed on on the agenda once I've made the request and followed the requirements. So, I guess it's twofold. Maybe I want two agenda items. One, a discussion about reinstating my ability to communicate and work
123with and learn from the community um as an agenda item. And number two, that there be some type of time limit. Three years is not reasonable to not have it is not in the spirit of our policy to exclude one member from being able to put items on the agenda. So I think we need to discuss that. So I am requesting two. >> Well, I can as our agreements also state that you can request that. A board member can request that. We have had board members request items to be put on the agenda and one of the agreements also states that you need to um email that or verbally um present your rationale and you have not done that and I'm not Melissa. >> I'm not being argumentative. >> No, you can watch the previous
124meetings and you will see that Mr. Kush that I met the criteria. >> You have not been recognized. Please >> be respectful. >> I think that's a two-way street. >> Oh, it is. It is. and I am being respectful. Now, that's the first parameter is to >> yes, >> submit your request and put a rationale behind it. >> Yes. >> The other parameter is if that request is going to be covered or has been covered by an agenda item either in the past or in the future, then that agenda item that request will fold into. So, in the policy, >> it is in the board agreement. >> It is not in the policy. If it is an agenda item in this case with board assignments, it is done annually in the summer. So >> that's
125not policy. Policy trumps whatever you think the agreement says the board. >> This is a board agreement that I'm discussing. So in this case, can I please can you the respect you're asking for, could you please send it out also? >> And don't look at me like I'm the one who's angry. I'm trying to chair this meeting and I'm trying to explain the the how we handle this. In the case of the board assignments, it is handled in the summer at the end of each school year. We do it annually in June. Somehow by the July, maybe first August meeting, they are put out to the board members after other information has been solicited. So in this case, board assignments do not change up mid school year. It will be revisited come June or July,
126whenever the meetings fall, that that's an agenda item >> that you're making up. >> No, I'm not making up anything. >> So that I've heard if you wish to have the other thing put on, you need to email Charles with your rationale and your request just as other board members have done since Melissa. >> Melissa, let me just give an example. Otherwise, >> let me give an example. At the May meeting with reorganization, we had had some discussion. I forget what the topic was. And I said to you, please email that to us so that it can get on an agenda. And I have yet to receive it. And if I have not received it since he's president, >> then we go see this on the agenda. >> I'm just telling you that we go
127through our notes all the time before every board prep to make sure we have everything. If there's not been an emailed request to argue, >> I'm just explaining it and I'm not arguing it. I'm explaining it for your benefit so that any other board members if they don't remember the process and so that the community understands the process. >> What you're explaining is not the policy. >> Please email, please email Mr. Kush with your request. >> I will do it again. >> Okay. Then I'm sure we will see it and we will discuss it at our next board prep and when it can be put on the agenda at an appropriate time. Okay. Upcoming events. What's on the schedule, please? >> Our next board meeting is on Monday, March 2nd, 2026. Despite the spring weather,
128don't think spring break is too [clears throat] close. It doesn't begin to March 30th. >> Okay. Thanks for that. [laughter] Okay. Item 14, a motion to adjurnn. >> Move to adjurnn. >> Second. Motion and a second have been heard. Is there any discussion? Please call the role. Mrs. Patton. Cuz I >> Winsky, >> hi >> McMillan. >> Hi >> Blastic. >> Hi >> Kelly Black. >> Hi >> Gerky. I We are adjourned. Good evening.