08/05/2025 WCSD BOE Meeting

001Call this meeting to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic it stands one nation under God indivisible with liberty and justice for Everyone um at this time I would like to go ahead and some nominations for president of president of the board. Excuse me. Nominate John King. Um second second to John second that >> all in favor. >> Any other nominations? Call the vice president. Okay. Any polls? is president for this school year. to go ahead and accept nominations for um position of the vice president for this school year. Have any nominations? Any second nomination? Second nomination. you make a motion for a second to uh calling for DP. Um all in favor [Music] congratulations. I do have rebellion this evening door open if you could stand. I do solemnly

002swear that I will support the Constitution of the United States of America, the Constitution of the State of New York, that I will faithfully discharge the duties of the office of President Board of Education for the Watertown City School District of the city of Watertown to the best of my ability. I do solemnly swear that I will support the Constitution of the United States of America and the Constitution of the State of New York and that I will faithfully discharge the duties of the office of office of vice president board of education for the Watertown City School District of the city of Watertown to the best of my abilities. Check face. Um, thank you everybody for me. I will my absolute best they choose to fill job running this board. So I hope I can

003do my half as well as he has. Uh at this point we are uh going to have our public hearing for the proposed 2025 district safety plan. >> Thank you. We're going to have a couple of you anticipating the feedback on our district safety plan. Um this is required. This is the district safety plan portion um of the agenda. So we'll highlight some changes for the upcoming school year. Um they may be just reminders for some of you that have participated in prior board meetings. the updates for the 2526 school year. The big one is our personnel. Um, as you know, a couple years ago we started off with school resource officers in our district um piloting at WY uh intermediate school. Um, this year we are adding an additional SS or yeah, SSO, excuse

004me, school safety officer who's a retired police officer from the Watertown Police Department. So, we're excited to have him here. We'll have him his face and name in a momentary slide. Uh that person will be stationed at Ohio Elementary School, but his support for all of our elementary schools. The second thing I'm going to ask Jeff, our director of IT and cyber security, to kind of explain this piece, the technology with the new AI camera system and districtwide digital radios. So, our current system that we've had in place for now probably almost six or seven years um is since it's not antiquated, but it doesn't have all the uh more technological upgrades and features that we like to use in today's world. There's just so much going on. So, we decided that at least on

005the main campus, we're going to start. So, uh, the high school wy and case are going to get a newer system, uh, that's cloud-based that allows us to very quickly, um, alert to certain situations. It has an AI engine in the background that allows us to search for specific things like, uh, what someone's wearing or a particular vehicle or if somebody's on campus after hours, they shouldn't be or in a particular space that they shouldn't be in. and it can automatically alert wherever we want be alerted uh in that situation that can easily uh follow up and and check and investigate if something's going on. So the point of the system is is to give us more time instead of having to look at hours and hours of video. We can now let the system

006work for us. The software in the background can do those things that we'd like it to do. um and free up our staff's time to actually, you know, put their eyes and ears around uh without having to stare at a computer screen. That was the big reason for that uh for that upgrade as as well. >> And Jeeoff, with that one, we're including some new cameras as well. >> Yes. >> Yeah, we're adding um a a very large amount of cameras to Case Middle School. Um the design of that building, the architecture, although it's a unique building, it is not lend itself very well to uh cameras because cameras are line of sight and the building is shaped like a U. So especially in the hallway. So we're adding additional cameras in that building to

007just give us more visibility uh in that building as well as some additional cameras in the high school uh that have these uh improved capabilities. the radios. So, the radio project actually started yesterday. Um, we are upgrading to a digital radio system that is districtwide. So, right now, a lot of our uh security officers, custodians, maintenance staff, and some principles carry around radios. Uh, they only work in the building that they're in. Uh, they can only call the radios that are assigned to that building, and the coverage is really poor because they're an older analog system. So, we are installing uh on every building that will give us a lot greater coverage not only within the building but outside and around and probably pretty much within the city limits. Um, and they're digital radios uh

008as opposed to the analog which means they're more secure. Uh they're encrypted traffic so that anyone if we want to have private conversations on it, it's very hard. You can't hear it. You can have onetoone conversations with the radio which you can't do now with the current system. It's anyone who has that channel can listen in on the on the talk as well as it integrates to our camera system. It'll integrate to our camera system. So if an alert comes out, it actually can send an alert in the form of a you call it text if you will to certain uh radios that the principles administrators and the SSOs will get. It'll also integrate to our lockdown system as well as our PA system and our phone system. So, uh, we can assign phone numbers

009that actually will call a radio, individual radio. So, if we wanted to call somebody that didn't that doesn't have a radio but wants to call someone who's carrying one that's mobile, they can do that. So, those radios will be dispatched. We're getting more radios than we have now. So, administrators, custodians, maintenance staff, SSOs, IT staff, um we'll coaches even if we need to. Uh we have special events and the coach needs to have a radio out in the field. We'll have radios available for them. So, um it's a lot more integrated into our systems and it gives us a lot more visibility of what's going on as far as being able to communicate very quickly. There'll be call groups set up based on your role. So if I want to call the custodians in the

010building, I could very easily just call them and not tie up traffic with everybody else. Right now everybody gets the messages, but we can make it so that only a certain group of people >> and then if you could touch on them >> I've had a busy summer in case you haven't figured it out. So um the last thing that we we're working on from a safety perspective is a weapons detection system. It's called Open Gate. We did a demonstration of it uh probably back in April, I think it was. We actually uh in uh set it up and installed and trained our high school and K staff on it. Um and they're using it now in in the high school for summer school um as kind of a beta test to kind of work

011through the logistics of getting students move through the system. So, what it is is uh pillars that they walk through. It's similar to what you would think of a metal detector at an airport, but it's it's designed for throughput. So, they can walk normally at a normal pace. They don't have to stop or pause or anything. Um, and what it's looking for obviously is anything that's a weapon weapon. So, guns, certain knives, not all knives, but knives that are really meant for mass casualties and, you know, like large hunting knives, if you can think of them, or machetes. Um, and the only thing the students have to do is like divest themselves on these devices, laptops, because they will set the gate off and they basically pass the on a table next to the gate,

012their laptop. They walk through with their backpack on. If it causes an alarm, they go to a secondary station with the where they are screened again without the backpack to see if it's something they're carrying on them. And they also have wands that they can use to check check them. Uh so far the high school I think has had fairly good success with it. Um I granted it's only maybe 50 to 100 students that are going through and we have to think about our plans for the beginning of the school year when we have a thousand students coming into the building. It will mean changes to how students enter the building in the morning or during the day as well. Um it'll be like one point of ingress into the building. Um and all visitors

013and students will will have this uh have to go through this gate and and be screened. Um so it's again it's also made to be portable. So we can set these up at uh events like uh football games, lacrosse games, basketball games so that we can screen anyone coming in and out of them they're very easily. They're very light. They weigh 20 pounds a piece. Um they use Milwaukee batteries so they're made to be very easily be recharged. last 14 hours and they're waterproof, too. So, um, anyways, it seems to be working fairly well. We've gone through our growing pains with it. We're working out the kinks now so that when school starts, hopefully we can make it happen quickly in the morning. I've been working very closely with, you know, Amber and her staff

014and and Lesie and everyone at the high school and the SSOs have, you know, been on board with training and making sure that they understand how the system works. >> Yes. Thank you. So, that is a pilot at both Kates Middle School and the high school. That moves us to number four with the secure vestibules. that was something that was a part of our capital project um both for Starbucks elementary and Ohio to follow suit with the other elementary schools um and middle and high school. Um this secure vestibule is at the WY district office and that will begin actually we're going to be kicking that off next week on the 11th. So there'll be a little bit of construction and reconfiguration how people enter. Uh we've worked with the WY staff to support that.

015Uh the next thing is stop the bleeds. About halfway through last year, we worked on staff the lead training with all of our staff and each of our classrooms received those kits. So that was an additional addition. And then number six is something that we do every year. We look at any kind of administrative staffing changes and make sure that we update those plans accordingly. >> Take this slide and make sure the training component behind the SSR. I feel really confident for our students, staff in the district. We have a great team. Uh we have uh Jeremy Foot from the Watertown uh police department. And then we have four school security officers that we've hired in the district. Matt Flynn being the first one a couple of years ago. Um he's a retired state trooper.

016We have Paul Mendes, retired state trooper. Erica Derwin was a detective at the Watertown Police Department. And then we have our newest member, uh, Officer Jason Batalado, uh, recently retired from the Watertown PD department. And, uh, we're we're super excited about our team. Uh, they will be attending, uh, the annual SRO conference in Niagara Falls on August 25th through the 29th. uh just a few of the the various topics that they'll be uh taking part in. Security walkthroughs, ju juvenile legal issues, uh SRO in the classroom and lesson planning, bullying and the impact of social media, update on special education, peer mediation and anger management and search and seizure in schools. And they always come back and they teach us what they've learned, which is great. That's what it's all about. So, we're very excited

017to have our our team in place uh for the upcoming school year. infographic is a little bit different than what we had last year, but this is an opportunity for anybody in the community that's website and afforded anyone the opportunity to ask questions ahead of this meeting. That brings us to the last slide, which is are there any questions to end our public hearing on our safety plan? There is no question. Okay. Take a motion to close the public hearing. And >> second. >> All right. All those in favor? >> Any opposed? >> Any agenda changes this evening? >> I do not have any chang uh >> agenda related public comments. Hi, my speech. Let me just uh first off, I want to say I'm severely underdressed. I wasn't supposed to be here tonight and

018my girls are missing their first day of dance camp because I'm here. I felt strongly about this. And then I'm gonna take off because I have to coach in second right after this. So, my name is Rachel Thomas. I'm a Watertown resident, a full-time working mom of three, a full-time graduate student, a community volunteer, and a 15y year early childhood professional in this community. Both of my girls went through the Water City School District UPK program and attended wraparound care afterwards as both my husband and I worked full-time. My son is currently awaiting enrollment into the UPK4 program at a treehouse. He currently attends the Treehouse full-time as I work full-time and he needs the care. And I have seen firsthand the incredible dedication to the students that the Treehouse staff has had and the

019commitment to the parents, the students, and the staff that the center strives to offer. Displacing over 30 children that are seeking preschool services with the Treehouse would be a massive disservice to the community and to the parents that they serve. In addition to this, the lack of allocations that you are trying to give the CBOS is one limiting my child's ability to attend preschool without being weightlisted and two, my child's ability to attend a highquality preschool that offers wraparound care. Although wraparound care might not be a priority for everybody, it is for my family. My husband owns and operates Bill's Feed Service in Great Bend, which is a longstanding family-run business that supports not only local farmers, but the community that it serves. And as stated in the beginning, I'm a full-time graduate student and

020full-time employee in the early childhood field. It's no longer an option in this economy to just have one working parent. And thus, we are a two parent household working hard to support our family and the community that we serve. Losing wraparound care would severely harm our ability to continue to work to support our own children. You might then ask, why not place them somewhere else? Here's a really straightforward answer. I've been in this field in this community for 15 years, and there is not one center that I trust more than the treehouse to care for, to love, and to keep safe, and to educate my child. The selfishness of the district this year when it comes to the UPK allocations and the way they undermined every community partner and parent has been extremely frustrating and

021heartbreaking for the families that we serve and for the children in this community. So, board of education, I ask you tonight not to think about my child and all of the other three and four year olds in this community as just a number. They're not a number. They are children who deserve the right to learn how to make friends, to learn how to share and to problem solve, to find comfort in teachers who have a passion for them to grow as humans, and for him and all of the others to not be ripped from the centers that they grew up in from infants and they have found comfort in with these teachers that act as second parents. Thank you for taking the time to listen and I severely I certainly hope that you take to

022heart this conversation that we just had when making your vote tonight. >> Thank you for agenda related items. >> Good evening. Um my name is Anthony Dulo. I am on the CAPC board and also an elected official that represents part of the city of Watertown. So, Assemblyman Gray could not be here tonight, but he did send out a press release and I'm going to read it to you all. Um, we both agree on this subject and I think it's important for you to hear this. Um, Assembly Man Gray is calling on the Watertown City School District Board of Education to reconsider its pending decision to reallocate universal prek slots away from trusted community-based organizations and into the school district. The move, Gray warns, will come at a significant cost to both the taxpayers and the

023region's fragile child care infrastructure. This is a disruption with potential harmful effects of our system that has served our children well for years. Sidelining experienced community providers and centralizing services within the school district replaces a nimble, cost-effective network with a more expensive, less accessible model that could harm families, providers, and actually impact our local economy. Ray also expressed concerns over the lack of process and community engagement as well as transparency in this planning process. The organizations currently providing UPK services are the experts. They work with our children every day. To not include them in this process is a disservice to the families who we rely on their care. Jefferson County is already in a crisis when it comes to child care access. 72% of the county is classified as a child care desert. Removing UPK

024slots from CBOS will further reduce available care, destabilize full day services, and make it harder for families, especially parents, working parents to access the support that they need. The shift would also create a long-term financial burden. Unlike community providers which operate operate flexible school-based programs, institutionalized cost that taxpayers will be responsible for year after year. That's a permanent increase in school budgets paid for with local taxes. In Jefferson County, 77% of parents seeking child care need it for them to stay in the workforce. The loss of fullday flexible wraparound services will make it nearly impossible for many to participate in the UPK program or maintain employment. This change puts unnecessary strain on working families, especially with those limited with limited transportation or non-traditional work hours. CBOS deliver early childhood education but also contribute to the

025local economy. The district's move could force some providers to shut their doors, raise prices, or lose critical staff to the higher paying SU school system, resulting in fewer options for parents and long-term staffing challenges in the child care sector. Moreover, centralizing UPK services at Watertown School makes the program less accessible to families outside the city's core. It also eliminates the diversity of care models such as inhome care, center-based care, and Head Start programs that currently meets a broad range of family needs. Assemblyman Gray is urging the board of education to pause and reconsider the current plan in favor of a mixed delivery model that includes both school and in first instance utilizing current longest established community-based partnerships. Saying we need to build a plan that preserves community capacity, avoids fewer taxpayer liabilities, and ensures equitable

026access to care. That starts with listening to families, providers, building trust through true community participation. >> Thank you. >> They also like to speak. >> Hello, my name is Emma Boyce. Um, thank you for the opportunity to speak today. I'm here not only as a parent but also a special education teacher deeply invested in the success and wellbeing of our English learners in the district. One of which being my own child. Community- based organizations have played an invaluable part in see in overseeing the UP classrooms in the district um especially the Ohio Street School and their effects go far beyond the classroom overall shaping who our children are as people. The treehouse's close connections to families and understanding of our community's unique needs creates a supportive and nurturing environment where my son has thrived. I

027was heavily relying on and strongly looking forward to my son continuing his growth in the UPK3 program at the treehouse this coming fall. They do way more than just oversee the classrooms. They provide essential support to families, helping to build strong foundations for my son's education and overall development as a human being. As previously mentioned, they go out of their way to find certified teachers as well as connect families to as many resources as they can to help set the already severely underfunded and expensive world of quality and educational child care. From the moment my son has started attending, the Treehouse has shown day in and day out that they are in the world of child care for exactly what they should be, our children and our families. every choice they make, every time they've

028spoken out, it's for our children, our district's families, and furthering what they can provide to make our community and the future of our district better. After attending the previous board meeting on July 1st, it's overwhelmingly concerning how so many parents and CBO leaders with the support of various legislators and political officials have advocated for how detrimental these proposed cuts and allocations of classrooms will be to our community as a whole. And yet it's still somehow a question. Being a special education teacher myself, I'm especially disappointed that collusion and an intentional cut of current resources and UPK slot availability would be prioritized over building off of an already existing foundation of a functional and effective variety of programs. programs that with proper funding and a continuation of all current classroom locations would be able to even

029more effectively meet the needs of so many more children, including those of higher needs, whether prek or in regular daycare. Our children and our families are not pawns in irrational and petty administrative decisions. decisions that directly affect our children, families, crucial community businesses, organizations, extend extended family members and guardians, current employees, and so on. My son, like many others he goes to school with, has attended the treehouse since he was four months old. At 3 years old, he comes home daily talking about everything he's learned, the fun he's had, and the teachers and friends he has spent his day with in a safe and trusted environment. His growth academically and social emotionally at the treehouse is felt far beyond the treehouse's walls. He is kind and respectful to others. Whether it's his one-month old brother,

030or other people at the playground, grocery store, or even doctor's offices, he has thrived on the variety of structures that he received at the treehouse for over three years. It is severely upsetting that there's a very real possibility that he and many others in the same predicament will no longer have access to these structures until they begin in kindergarten two or more years from now. With not only funding the treehouse and other CBOS not being adequate to meet the needs of our children, but their locations being taken away and given to another organization for absolutely no good reason. It decreases not only number of slots available, but it increases the number of needs that could be met right in the classroom with their peers. This current plan does not just affect prek students. It will

031cause a ripple effect, increasing prices and decreasing spot availability for regular daycare slots from infants all the way up to school age children. This means that not only my son, my family, and many others will have less of a chance to continue on such a great path with the treehouse and other CVOs, but many will not have basic access to such crucial resources and support right in the room amongst their peers. I do want to acknowledge that there are circumstances where children may have high needs that need to be met in a more restrictive environment. However, a great percentage of children at this age should not just be put in a self-contained prek classroom before they've barely even had a chance to receive support in a typical classroom with proper supports in place first. I

032urge the board not only to continue these partnerships, allowing them to keep their current classrooms, especially those of the Ohio Street School, but to increase funding for these organizations as well. Increased resources will enable them to offer even greater support to families navigating child care, early education, and early special education. Additionally, it ensures that many children, families, guardians, supporting family members, community- based businesses, and employees are not just displaced with little to no resources, but are given what they need to head down the path towards the goals our district is supposed to be working towards in the first place. Investing in these community-based organizations is investing in the future of our children and our district. I have an unreasonable amount of hope that the final decision will be one to work together provide our youngest

033learners with the best start possible, furthering already established relationships and partnerships within our Watertown community. >> Thank you. Thank you. >> Like to speak to agenda related items. >> I'll speak right from my chair person. Thank you for listening to the voices of advocacy this evening. I am speaking with great concern for the proposed state of UPK and the impact to partner CBOS, the community, our schools, families, and our littlest learners here at the Watertown City School District. Understanding that a large number of slots may no longer be available to pre-k students in the district strikes me as a bold choice knowing that we exist in a child care desert. It's a struggle to find quality and affordable options. Quality and education. Eliminating these slots places a burden on struggling families, which speaking of struggling

034families, 30% of our children in the city of Watertown under the age of 18 live below the poverty line. meaning alternative options may very well not be available for at least a third of those cut slots. When teachers are advocating for a plan to acclimate students into the K12 environment, how is eliminating those slots fostering a seamless kindergarten transition? How will those children be prepared to acclimate into the educational environment? I hope that you'll consider what everybody has spoken this evening before making a decision. Thank you. >> Thank you. Anybody else that would like to speak to agenda related to speak? >> I would like to speak. I sorry I haven't had anything written down. My name is Shay Lau. I am one of your teachers that teaches in your CBOS for UP. I might

035sound a little selfish here, but going off of what I've killed is in 2008, I was asked by peg rifle, therefore the district, to return to school for my certification in early childhood. And I have done that. I had to go return my master's degree. I've had to take leave of absence and work in order to complete student teaching. All of that I have done for the district. Now, if you remove UPK from the CBOS, you are displacing some of your teachers as your as your district employees. comments this evening. >> I would just like to speak as a legislator now. You know what I was talking to Scott? So, as a legislator, I am appointed by the Jefferson County Board of Legislators to be on CAPC's board. Just so everybody's clear on that. It's

036not something that I do just to get on the board. you have to be appointed to be on these boards. Um so my remarks as a legislator um today will focus on transparency and community planning. Two things that are essential for building trust. When information is withheld or shared in a way that feels dishonest, it can lead to a breakdown of trust within the community. But when we engage in open and honest community planning, we can empower people and ensure that the decisions are made with their input. This is not this not only builds trust, it also holds our institutions accountable and helps prevent social injustices injustices from happening. I'm concerned that a full understanding of the upp program wasn't clear to all board members when the budget was presented. How are we ensuring that

037everyone has a complete grasp of all the details now, especially as the vote approaches? Could you provide more information on the planning process for this proposal? >> I am particularly interested in the understanding how families and critical partners were involved and what steps were taken to identify all potential issues and solutions. I believe we have an opportunity to leverage the valuable expertise of our existing partners in early childhood education, disability services, and child care. There are on the front lines every day. They are on the front lines every day and could offer crucial insights. My concern is that the current plan may not fully address our comprehensive needs for early childhood childhood education and disability services and child care. A more in-depth analysis could lead to a stronger, more effective community plan for our community.

038When it comes to something as important as our children's future, a strong plan is essential. The current proposal seems to be missing some key pieces like a thorough look at our needs for early childhood education, disability services, and child care. I'm hopeful that we can work together to create a more robust and comprehensive plan. My suggestion is to temporar temporarily reinstate last year's successful model while we develop a a new strategy. This will allow us to thoughtfully engage with families and experts to ensure our new plan truly supports everyone. Thank you. >> Anybody else see me? Thank everybody that took the time to come. Uh obviously it's impact house tonight for everybody to share their thoughts taken into consideration. Uh Michelle any communications for the board this evening board report. So welcome back Watertown event.

039>> Good evening. My name is Jillian here, one of the homes school coordinators here in the district and I'm joined with Ebony Holmes, another home school coordinator, Christine Sutton, and then our assistant principal, Amber Mera at the high school. We were here last year presenting our first ever welcome back Watertown event. And I think all of us were excited, had a vision. We weren't really sure what it was, how it was all going to come off, but we had great success last year. And so we're back to let you know that we're doing um the welcome back Watertown event again this year. The event um is really about having everyone come to the main campus um and get school supplies, have dinner, meet their school buildings. Um all the schools will be represented at a

040table along with our community partners that are embedded in our school buildings every day. Transportation will be provided from our five elementaryaries. Um we will be having pizza. There will be hair trims available by Autumn's Barber Shop. And it's just a fun time. We're incorporating um Fine Print Williams who is uh going to be doing some empowering hiphop presentations throughout the event. And um I want to thank our sponsors FX Caprao Watertown Savings Bank Sundance Leisure Direct Subs and Compass Workplace Testing LLC John Allen Sanitation Services. They're at the bottom of the fire and did I forget anything else? >> It's all free. So free haircuts, free book bags, free hygiene supplies, free transportation, free dinner. Um so it's all free and it's for prek through 12. Um, so making sure that our our youngest

041kiddos come to because we know how important prek is. Um, and we'll be having from the elementary schools every hour starting at 2:30 the transportation will be going around. So we're really excited. >> Um, at the same time we are also for our upper level students, our um, high schoolers doing a new student orientation. While we envision that we'll have a lot of our incoming freshmen. Any student who's new to our town high school may be new to the district should come for that orientation. It is scheduled for roughly the same time. It starts at 4 pm. Um, and that's really uh tactful in order to make sure that everyone can get to our campus and take advantage of that free transportation and also go ahead and get those school supplies, have dinner, get the

042prepared trim, and be ready for school. Um, our orientation at the high school, our doors open at 400 p.m. And there's a brief presentation at 4:15 just kind of let everyone know what to expect um coming to the high school. it can be a little bit intimidating and we heard from our students and families last year that at this event their worries and their anxiety really was diminished and they were ready to start school in September. So we're excited to bring this back. Um it was a great event. Um please everyone keep your fingers crossed there is no flooding so that we can go to I said fingers crossed for them. >> It was rough but it was still a great event. Um, even with that, you know, our families really appreciated it. Also, on

043that same day, again, just trying to be really mindful of our families and their needs and, you know, everyone has a tight schedule. Um, our Cyclone Academy students, they'll be coming back to campus for an orientation at 3 p.m. taking advantage of everything that we have to offer that day and just reminding them of the expectations of that great opportunity for our students that we offer at the high school. The only other thing to add is um we're hopeful that the clothing swap will be there too. So if you have any gently used or um new clothing that your kids screw out of um we're trying to keep it out of the the um the dump landfills. And so we're starting and last year he gave us a report on how much he weighed in

044and I think it was close to 500 pounds that we kept out of landill. So, it was really good that you can also get some new school supplies. >> And I'll just share from my students for our students perspective, they would really like some athleisure hoodies. >> So, thank you to the board of education, our administration, um the STEM department, our support staff, and our custodial staff because there's a lot of pieces behind the scenes that are really um happening to be able to pull this all out. So we appreciate everyone >> and we owe each of you a huge thank you for organizing this event and memory for this help with the donation. >> Yes. Thank you. >> We want to donate stuff to you. How do we do that? Like if we have

045clothing or something that we want to if you'd like to bring it to the event, that's probably the best way to do it. Yes. you'll be able to line it all up and that way people >> perfect. Last year's was amazing. I've never seen so many happy kids getting their haircut in my whole entire phenomenal. You guys did a great job. Thank you. We're excited. >> Uh we're on to our strategic uh plan update for the 202526 school year. Well, Lyn and I are going to tag team on this presentation this evening, and we're very excited about our strategic plan. One of the unique things about our strategic plan is it doesn't sit daily for five years. It's a five-year plan, but we look at it twice a year, every year, and we freshen it

046up because um I under Dr. Shmebo's leadership and our team, we have I move mountains. We really strategic plan right up on the wall across from me. Um all of our pillars are there. We do interviews in this room. We refer to it often. Um it's the centerpiece of what we do. So we're excited to be here this evening to share a little bit about uh what we've achieved this year and where we are moving forward. Of course, our our mission statement stands strong and our core values. We talked about many of those already at the meeting. safety and security, welfare centric actions, very inclusive environment, building meaningful relationships, commitment to exceptional programs, fostering high expectations, and of course, expecting excellence. Priority areas this evening, of course, increasing the graduation rate, increasing meaningful student engagement.

047And this all flows if you look at priority one increasing the graduation rate all the priorities underneath feed into that priority number one. So student engagement is certainly important including overall student attendance enhancing those behavioral supports and also enhancing the infrastructure which we're working very hard on as recently as a couple of hours ago. So we're doing all those things to to increase that graduation rate for our students. So, we've added a student board of education member as a standing member of the superintendent student advisory committee. What a dynamic committee that is. We meet once per month. Uh Dr. Smeaggel uh leads that group. We learn as much from them as as you know as they learn from us. In fact, I think even more so I think you'd agree. They teach us so much.

048our third year group and this year we had 35 students 7th through 12th grade that want to be a part of this organization. So we're excited about that. >> And we uh hope to host a regional midyear check-in for student board members throughout the area. Continued a blended model of our staff advisory committee which meets once per month to promote collaboration, communication, and engagement across the district. Of course, uh improving student onboarding and retention is important. new student information. We have our registar right here in this building. Um share and use the social emotional learning screener data to tier two and three student interventions and analyze dropout exit survey data for prevent future dropouts. Credit recovery certainly important process of hiring credit recovery teacher and our graduation coach will continue to meet with our case

049middle school team to ensure alignment. Lindy did you have anything? That will be I'll add to that the graduation coach. So, you know, when you when we hired that position, it was more of a reactive position. We were looking at what seniors do we have that just are not about to go over that that graduation threshold. Um, we hired Vicky Cole last year, which is an amazing educator in our community. Um, had a great relationship with kids and teachers, so it was just a perfect fit. We hired her last year to look at all of those seniors that were just we wanted to push over that threshold. We have good news that we're going to be sharing at a um board meeting near you, but not ready tonight. We're waiting on some August data for

050our graduation rate, but we're looking at some possibly a high the graduation rate being the highest it's been in 12 years. Um so, we're looking forward to that. But the case piece is looking at, you know, now that we have the seniors moving in the right direction, we're looking at going backwards and looking at our seventh and eighth graders and what can we do to make sure that they're on track for graduation. We know that if students are being retained in seventh and eighth grade, their chances of graduating on time are less than likely. And so, uh, that's one of the implementations for this year. So, she'll be meeting with the counseling department each quarter over a case. >> I just want to touch upon the Cyclone Academy. So, that's that's one of the biggest

051um factors in being able to increase our graduation rate. We have students that maybe are not doing well in the traditional setting. they've been able to go to night class and we'll be expanding that into Cyclone Junior. So, we're very excited about that as well. >> All right, moving on to priority two, increasing that meaningful student engagement. Uh we do implement surveys for our littlest learners and we're looking to simplify uh the student engagement survey for those students. >> It's been a little tricky because you use text, you use visuals and the visuals mean the same thing to each kid. So, we're still trying to tweak that out for our younger learners. >> We're also brainstorming strategies to utilize the findings. Uh creating a district-wide assessment calendar, including survey dates, uh implementing professional development and

052training on effective student engagement strategies under Lynn's leadership. >> One of the things that we offered this year is we did a cross collaborative conversation with teachers and students um through our advisory councils to talk um about different engagement strategies. Lynn led that professional development. We're going to continue those conversations, particularly at the secondary level. We see student perception of engagement slightly lower than where we would like it to be. So, we've got some work to do there. >> Then, Cyclone Academy, as Lynn had mentioned, we're adding a Cyclone Academy middle junior next year to provide an alternative pathway to graduation. >> So, this is going to be a little bit different than our traditional model. We started off this year with our high school. Um what we're looking at is potentially any student that

053may have been retained kindergarten through seventh or eighth grade. Um you know for for their life they have felt behind. They haven't felt like they've been caught up or ahead. And so by adding SE Cyclone Academy middle and junior next year we're going to focus on those kids that maybe are already beginning that disengagement process. They really don't see themselves as a high school graduate. So we're going to connect with those kids to the middle school pathway so that we can get them caught up. Our hope is to do a modified version of what we're doing right now with cyclone academy at the high school level. Um, and our hope is to get them caught up uh course-wise, but also so that when they're entering high school, they feel like they have some credits underneath

054their belt. Um, and they have that advantage of being ahead. But we what we want with our cyclone education, we want students to understand that in life people make mistakes and the idea for making mistakes is to learn by them and that there's multiple pathways to graduation. Um, that will be the middle school version. The junior is uh what we learned from the high school academy at the high school this year. You know, our focus was those kids that maybe were behind academically, but what we found out was there were kids that actually wanted to get ahead. They wanted to graduate a year early um or they had, you know, they were taking care of a sibling or they were working in the evening. And so we want that level of flexibility so those kids

055will have the opportunity to go to school in the evening also for an hour each day um so that they can take high school classes. So when they begin high school in the f the following fall, they'll have potentially three to four credits. >> Priority three, improving overall student attendance. Best place for a student to be to achieve is in the classroom. So we are implementing district-wide attendance initiatives and our homeschool team coordinator team. Uh most of them were here presenting a little bit earlier. Um and they are a big part of of this initiative. Uh implementing a K through four three- tiered attendance support system. course continuing the communication log initiative. Um we also offer continued tier attendance robocalls at Watertown High. Uh the high school has a program called Cyclone Connect, a proven

056mentoring program. We're also uh and it stems from our um actually uh superintendent student advisory. We have a couple of mentoring programs that were implemented last year uh through that committee. So that was great. And implementing the tardy bus to improve punctuality. That will be something new that we added this year was something the district had years ago for any student. Um it took one phone call from a a parent who called and said their child missed the bus and they were going to miss a kindergarten moving up uh concert. And so we added that to the budget for this upcoming year. Um the idea is in order to level the playing field with our kids, particularly those that are at risk. Um if they miss the bus, we don't want them to miss an

057entire day of school. So that those buses will be available. Lyn is going to be working through the principal's academy with the principles to how to utilize those buses to get those kids picked up, brought them to school. Priority four, enhancing those behavioral supports for students. The first uh prong here is expansion and enhancement of our PBIS programs. You can see the many different activities that'll take place. Uh two buildings will restructure the MTSS and PBIS team, refine our tier one practices, and expand our tier 2 supports. And that data is certainly very very important as we uh move forward with this initiative. Also that continued professional development. Uh we've implemented the PAX good behavior game. We did a pilot last year at Nick and Ohio that's going to extend to all K through4 buildings.

058Um we're going to share the student support roles quick reference uh committee that I lead uh did a great job in formulating just what does a psychologist do versus a home school coordinator versus um a counselor. So, it's a great uh resource for our staff. We're going to distribute the personnel directory to families. We have a pla a placard that's used. It's a looks like a brochure. Um that's a quick reference uh phone numbers and contact information for our support staff here around the district. And then training to all new staff on the internet enabled device policy and finally enhancing our infrastructure capital outlay and planning. Go ahead. >> Yeah, we're just going >> um we'll start the capital project and planning at the top. Um begin planning for the 2627 capital outlay project. Um

059the outlay project has to be done during the budget planning session because that has to be included in the newsletter for New York State. Um the last couple of years we've done sidewalks at Starbucks. Um this year we're looking at doing an ADA accessibility over at North. Um there are many areas that need to be addressed. windows, doors, bathrooms, sidewalks, but we're allowed $100,000 and $100,000 doesn't get you far anymore. Um, but we're doing the best that we can on that. Um, and again, another thing to advocate to New York State for is pushing that 100 up to $250,000. U maximizing funding from all sources for to accomplish alternative projects. Um, we're in the middle of the $110 million project, as you all know, and we have all kinds of different funding sources coming in

060from that. We have FEMA U and we also have a hopefully an energy um energy performance contract is has been in talks to build a level on there. Any source that we can gain some extra funding for will help us expand and get into those instructional spaces. Um number three, begin planning for the second capital improvement project. As we had said, um we had voters had approved a $15 million capital reserve. Once this $110 million project is done in seven, eight, nine years, we're going to start planning for the next one. There's a lot of work that needs to be done in this district and we need to keep on it. Um, and then assure alignment of the traffic study. Um, last summer, um, Stacy Abuno had prevent presented the results from the traffic study.

061Parking is a serious problem, especially on this campus with all the professional development during the summer, and she's coming up with some great designs on how to have the traffic flow a little bit more safely. uh technology integration. >> Add to that piece. So, it's important that you utilize that traffic study. But the other thing we're looking at for the infrastructure, particularly with this is, you know, the um Myrtle extension, looking at separating that from the parking lot. Um we have many people that use that to get to outer Washington. However, they're driving through kids walking from their cars. It does pose a safety issue. So, we're looking at that as well. >> And currently, you have to drive through the high school parking lot to get up the hill to the WY campus. And

062the new design is going to separate those two. So that'll help solve some potential disasters there. >> And drainage is a huge issue which I'll mention when I talk about FEMA momentarily. >> Um technology integration. Jeeoff, did you want to share any further information that you've already given tonight on the radios and opengate? >> I think I covered everything. >> Okay. >> Yeah. Implement voter approved security and technology pro projects again as Jeff has already spoken about today. And then finally, the temperature bill. Um, you're going to have to refresh my memory on the on the temperatures on that, Dr. Schmegel. Um, Tim Lman, our director of facilities, is working on a plan, a safety plan for the school year. Once the temperature hits 82, um, yeah, I'm sorry. >> Um, we have to make

063sure that the students are kept cool. Then once it hits 88, we have to relocate them to a cooler area in the building. That does not mean calling off or evacuating. It's just relocating them at at a cooler place. Um, some ideas that have come up is having the custodians come in first thing in the morning, opening up windows, getting fans going to have a pool cooler setting first thing in the morning. That way it doesn't get as hot as fast. He's got a great idea and uh he's going to be presenting that at the retreat on the 21st. I talked earlier about our uh the fact that we undergo annual review and refinement uh for our strategic plan. So uh we're presenting to the board this evening. Uh as Brie mentioned, we have an

064administrative retreat on uh August 21st, it'll be shared with our administrative team and then during welcome back for our staff and then January of 2026, we'll take a mid-year review and then we'll refine in June of 2026. Just the thing that probably wasn't highlighted clearly here is that through the staff advisory and which was formerly the teacher advisory, we made it a little bit more inclusive by calling it the staff advisory and then the student advisory. We invite them in to also get feedback on the strategic plan. And finally, the ongoing implementmentation, communication is certainly important of updates to stakeholders, implementmentation of our modifications to the plan, continuous monitoring and evaluation, executive leadership team, midyear review, and then data collection and progress assessment. When we have these meetings, we have much data to be shared,

065and we make our decisions based on those items. questions for the superintendent schools report. Dr. Thank you. First thing here is but I already mentioned it the secure vestible at WY. Um today we had the opportunity to meet with FEMA come this Saturday will be the year when that disaster happened. Um we're looking at the district um just above a $7 million uh claim regarding the damages to the high school, slight damages at case and some issues at um in the lower level at North. Um right now we sat today we looked at all the feedback from our um architectural firm to FEMA. It is sitting with the CRC. Uh we believe that's positive news for the district and the district taxpayers. Um, and you know there are some things as I've mentioned that are

066maybe in the 110. We have high priority items. I think it originally came in at somewhere around 260 million. The project was approved at 110. So there are many things that we could put in the project. Um, and so we will look at prioritizing those items if those FEMA dollars come in. Uh right now once the CRC gives final stamp of approval, it goes to the environmental and historic preservation units of FEMA once they sign off on it. Um there is a new layer that was just added to the process. So once FEMA's done with it, um we were in fact today that um it will now go to the Department of Homeland Security, which is a new layer. Um so once FEMA approves it, then Department of Homeland Security approves it, then we'll have

067more information on there. And again, this upcoming Saturday is the one-year anniversary. Um, my second thing on mine, and I'm going to read this. Um, this proposal is from the DPAO. Um, so I'd like to read this to the board and ask for a motion. >> For 51 years, the DPAO Foundation has enriched the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities through its concerts for a cause series. the principal fundraising initiative of the disabled person's action organization, also known as DPAO. Their mission is to provide compassionate, personalized care, empowering support to individuals with developmental disabilities and their families. Their outreach serves more than 600 individuals and their families across the Jefferson and Lewis counties. their services the region's leading provider of overnight and hourly respit care supporting families caring for loved ones at home. They are

068organizing a feeling good the ultimate Michael Bubé experience. The date is Sunday, November 2nd, 2025. The venue they are requesting is the Watertown High School Auditorium. They have 20 piece professional orchestra plus Michael Bouly tribute artist. The local talent will include 18 student musicians from Watertown High School, Indian River, South Jeff, and General Brown high schools. They have a 12 member high school chorus. The community impact, a once- ina-lifetime opportunity for students to perform with touring professionals while the community enjoys a world-class performance. Why this education matters? Students gain real world performance experience in a professional setting. They meet the community's strong demand for highquality live entertainment and it brings together professionals and local talent in a collaborative celebration. It aligns with the DPA DPAO's belief that the arts are a powerful tool for connection,

069expression, and growth. Unlike other concerts in our series, Feeling Good was designed as a communitydriven event, not a profitdriven event. the accessible ticket pricing set intentionally to ensure broad community participation, especially for families with students involved. It's a project break even point with 70% venue capacity. It's support of the Northern New York Community Foundation and a venue rental discount to help the event meet its goals of breaking through. We respectfully request your support through a venue rental discount to help make this extraordinary community event possible. Your assistance will ensure accessibility for families across the region, directly support 30 plus local students sharing stage with professional musicians and strengthen a tradition that has arranged the north uh country for over five decades. I guess I would ask for a motion for the board to approve a

070rental discount for this nonprofit organization. >> Lori discussion in favor >> I pass. >> Thank you. And that concludes our report. >> Thank uh assistant superintendent for instruction. See you everyone. As part of our strategic plan to increase the graduation rate and foster meaningful student engagement, we've been actively prep preparing for the year ahead through a variety of initiatives. Um the first is some professional development opportunities and literacy instruction, math, science, technology, and others. At the same time, our teachers have been busy preparing for the new school year, focusing on curriculum planning and refinement. Um today in this room we're excited to share that a group of our teachers kicked off a three-day training in effective teaching um with Gene Anastasia and Dave Perry and he shared with us today they've been doing these trainings

071for 39 years. Um so if you're lucky as an educator to have attended one of those, you know how special they are and we're very excited to have them here. Our buildings have been full of activity this summer with summer school camps, bridging programs that are going on right now. We're especially looking forward to the August high school graduation ceremony and the opportunity to celebrate with our students and their families. We've been thoughtfully preparing for a comprehensive 3-day orientation which will take place in a few weeks to welcome our new teachers to our school community. And we've also planned ongoing follow-up sessions throughout the year and a strong mentorship in place to provide continuous support for our new educators. And as you know, Watertown hosts many student teachers. We successfully have completed placements across the

072district. This fall, more student teachers and field placement candidates will be joining our classrooms. And these partners partnerships benefit aspiring educators, but they also bring fresh perspectives and new ideas that enrich our entire school. >> Thank you. >> Assistant Superintendent for Personnel and Student Services, Tina. >> Good evening. I had the privilege of attending the 2025 July national superintendent forum uh along with Dr. Schmeaggel from July 13th through July 15th conference was focused on each of the five goals inherent in our strategic action plan increasing the graduation rate and student engagement moving student attendance and enhancing behavioral supports and building infrastructure or brought together K through2 leaders from across the country for a high impact gathering focused on connection strategy and renewal. This year's theme was authentic leadership, recharging, reflecting, and res inspiring purpose. I

073had the opportunity to attend sessions pertaining to areas such as embracing AI for students, wellness first, supporting minds, preventing burnout, and workplace development for quality staff. I've had the opportunity to integrate much of what I've learned at the conference into district practice and planning point. And secondly, um I want to when we get to the personnel report section, you'll see that there are 17 resignations on the report. And while that might seem alarming, but I I feel the need to follow qualify that and I'm very proud about, you know, what I'm about to say, 12 out of those 17 resignations are due to the fact those staff members aspire to grow in their employment within the Watertown City School District. There are employees who are moving up from aid to TA. They've had their certain

074summer and also we've had a handful who have moved from TA teacher. we're going to be teaching in the club. I think that's just wonderful. That's what we're here. We're here for people to grow and learn. That includes the adults, you know, in in our company. So, you know, inherent in our district's strategic action plan is the belief our students are future. And this belief extends to our employees playing an integral role in shaping the futures of our students. I'm very proud of the fact that our employees are aspiring to grow and achieve in the best interest of our students. Nice job to those individuals. directions to the hall and assistant superintendent for operation of finance. >> Hi, good evening. Um, I'm trying to hit off every department that I supervise. So, here we go.

075Um, our new food service director, Dennis Derome, he's been working uh has been working to revamp the menu to provide more appetizing and visually appealing meals for students. as he had said in his interview that students eat with their eyes. And so he's working to make that happen. By offering meals that students are more likely to enjoy, we aim to increase meaningful student engagement and contribute to improve student attendance as better nutrition and meal satisfaction are linked to consistent school participation. Kudos to him. Uh from facilities, facilities director Tim Lman, um he's been collaborating with the code enforcement office over the summer to finalize our annual fire inspections. And as of yesterday, all building occupancy certificates were officially issued. These efforts directly support the enhancement of infrastructure, ensuring our learning environments are safe, compliant, and

076conducive to student success. Um for the business office, um we're in the process of closing the 2425 fiscal year. I always say June 30th is the longest day of the year. Uh external auditors have begun their mostly remote work. Um they started today and it'll be coming up over the next few weeks. Uh responsible fiscal management provides the financial stability necessary to support academic programming and student services that can ultimately increase graduation rates and sustain infrastructure improvements. Um, from an IT perspective, um, the IT team has been actively supporting various room and office locations while also preparing new Chromebooks for the 2526 school year. And actually, I believe Jeff from your email, some of the buildings are about 75% ready as of today. Uh, their goal is to ensure all all devices are ready by

077the start of the year. And this work aligns with enhancing infrastructure and promotes meaningful student engagement by ensuring reliable access to technology for learning. And not to leave her out like Tara over in transportation um thank you Miss Dr. Stre for reminding me today um the we had asked um FH Boseies to do a feasibility study and they are going to be reaching out to care within the next week to start planning that. >> You just explain for those people that I'm sorry I'm sorry um last year u Millie had asked um about the possibility of the district running its own transportation as opposed to contracting with per student. So the the feasibility study offered by FE bosses will determine the cost of that whether that's more feasible to do it that way or statement

078per student. >> So I'm excited to see how what that result comes up with. >> Yeah. >> Thank you. >> You're welcome. Um, at this time we're in the need of an executive session to discuss the medical, financial, credit, or employment history of a particular person or corporation or matters leading to the appointment, employment, promotion, demotion, discipline, suspension, dismissal, or removal of a particular person or corporation. Have a motion. >> All those in favor? any post. Board members, at this point, I'll take a motion to resume open session. >> Lauren, all those in favor? >> Okay. Items for consent agenda, please. >> That consent agenda agenda items A through G are here by approve. All those in favor? I'm sorry. Motion >> Gina second >> discussion. All those in favor. >> Any opposed? It is

079for board action. Item A, approval of construction management services RFP award. Whereas the board of education, the Watertown City School District has determined that it is in the best interest of the Watertown City School District to retain its construction manager to provide construction management and related professional services in connection with the school district's 2025 capital improvement project. And whereas the school district previously issued a request for proposal for construction management services. And whereas the school district had received proposals in response to the RFP diligently analyzed uh the proposals and conducted uh interviews of selected candidates as parts of the selection process. And whereas board of education as a result of the RFP process has selected construction associates to provide construction management management services. Now therefore be resolved as follows. Number one, the board of education

080approves the retention of construction associates to provide construction management services in accordance with the terms and conditions of the RFP and the construction management services contract to be entered into uh into in the form recommended by the school district council. And number two, upon board of education approval, this resolution shall take effect immediately. Motion Second discussion the resolution kind of gave some context to it and given the size and scope of this um for those that are listening in the community could you just provide a little more context to the process and the decision. >> So we have similar to any of the RFP applications that we put out there we put out a public notice. any um partners can apply to be the construction manager. Um in this case we elected to do interviews.

081We had um a board member who sat um on the interview process. We had our legal firm for our friends that sit on the legal view process or interview process and then a decision was and this one has a financial benefit to the district. Um so the initial starting bid was 4 million. Highest bid um was over six and so um in this case it happened to be the person I the lowest bid um but also construction associates has been a member of this community for over 20 years as far as a district partner. Um is actually a resident town. >> Oh can I add something? But the other thing is when you look at this process, so they were a part of, you know, the $10 million capital project started a year ago when

082we put the board members on a bus and we drew the lid spaces. Um, so this organization was a part of that process. Also any other discussion? All those in favor? >> I any opposed? Motion passes. Resolve that the terms of representation for law firms Bon Shonik and Kate and Hancock Estbrook are approved to provide professional legal services as needed to the Watertown City School District for the 2025 26 and this is typically on the July reorg meetings but we struggled to get their paperwork in time so we had to push to the next board meeting. >> Is the next one just because of the capital project is that why it's separate? >> Yes. Yeah. Any I'll speak to that if you're okay with that. That's fine. Motion >> second. Lori and Randy. Any other

083discussion? >> All those in favor? I >> Any opposed? See approval of legal services agreement? uh resolve that the board of education hereby approves the legal services agreement by and between for our friends of PC and the Watertown City School District for the period July 2025 through the completion date for the $110 million capital improvement project for the legal services agreement. >> This goes to what Ry was asking. So this is a separate agreement. So this is legal services for the $10 million capital project. Um we have been working with legal over the last year. Um, so all of those will be reimbursed. Um, the benefit of adding legal services for construction for this 110 capital project is the district receives 93 cents of the dollar reimbursement. So that the cost to the taxpayers would

084be that 7%. It would make sure that we're in compliance. We thought it was critically important to make sure that the district and the board was covered with legal services regarding the capital project. This is a this is the largest capital project in our region that was passed. And as you can see, it's kind of on the bottom of that chart over there. Um, our facilities are in deep need of improvement. And, uh, it was critically important to make sure that we do this one right so that when we go out for the next capital project, which our voters approved for the $15 million capital reserve that Brie has spoke about. Make a motion. >> Randy second. Any further discussion? >> Just I didn't read it thoroughly as I should have, but is this one

085price no matter what? It's the one price >> and they will credit us back for services that they've already provided that the district had already paid for. >> Discussion. All those in favor? >> Any opposed? Passes. The approval of prek community- based organization partnerships. >> Done. I will need a um a second to bring this back to the table. Randy discussion. All those in favor >> discussion for bring table. >> All those in >> favor. Any opposed? Whereas on January 22nd, 2025, the Watertown City School District issued um requests for proposals for universal prek program services pursuant to the procedure set forth in section 151-1.6 of the commissioner's regulations. And whereas following the RFP process, the school district received and evaluated proposals from eight vendors. And whereas in accordance with the recommendation of the school

086district's administration, the board of education wishes to award the contract for universal prek program services to the highest scoring vendor. Number one, Little Luke's uh child care center. Number two, Watertown Family YMCA. Number three, Facility Student Association of Jefferson County Incorporated. Jefferson Campus Care. Number four, Community Action Planning Council. Number five, First Step Daycare Incorporated. Number six, Bright Beginnings Early Learning Center, Ark of Jackson County, St. Lawrence. Um, number seven, New Day New Day Children's Center. Number eight, the Treehouse Child Care Center. Now therefore be it resolved that the board approves award of the contract for universal pre kindergarten program services pursuant to the RFC issued January 27th 2025 two number one Little Luke's child care center number two family YMCA number three facility student association of Jefferson County Incorporated Jefferson campus care number four

087community action planning council number Five, First Step Daycare Incorporated. Number six, Bright Beginnings Early Learning Services, Ark of Jefferson St. Lawrence. Number seven, New Day Children's Center. Number eight, the Treehouse Child Care Care Center and that the proposed terms of contract attached to the RFP are hereby approved and the superintendent of schools is authorized and directed to execute the same on behalf of the school district and to take all steps necessary to carry carry out the terms of such agreement. Motion second discussion. First want to applaud my colleagues for the work that was just done in there. Lots of discussion, some agreement. Proud of all of you for being open to consideration of other options. Want to say that first. Then I want to talk about why I can't support it. It's really all about

088process to me. We've had decades amazing service from our community partners and whenever we've had an opportunity to talk to them and we were in a Lori and I were in a room with all of them. Really all they were asking us to do was include them in the process like we would with any partner. talked earlier about our students wanting them to be more engaged and collaborative and I feel like we fell short here. So, I realize we're way in for the process almost too late, but I just can't get behind it. It's not who I am. It's not who we are and everybody here knows that because I've expressed it. I'm sad that we got to this point where we are today. Sorry we didn't do better. um go right off of what

089you said. I mean, it's been I am happy that we were in there for so long because we to collaborate and do what's best, but it's been a rough couple months and we I respect all of you. Thank you for having that meeting with all of us. Um and community is huge for me, too. The school is as well. And this was one of those situations where they didn't collide the way I would like that we can make that better in the future for all of you. >> May I speak? >> Absolutely. >> Okay. Um I full disclosure for the public I am sit on the new day board which is one of the organizations being voted on tonight and I am told that I can't vote if I were able to hypothetically of course.

090Um, I would also have to vote no because the community put me here. And I just feel like we we tried to rush this and you know, here we are at the end. It's a good ending. Uh, that everybody we're partnering and I think that everybody's trying to do the right thing, but the process itself was not have a roll call vote. >> Yeah. >> Um I just want to say >> one more. Yes. So I I I personally don't don't disagree with what was just said. However, I have a question. So a no vote, let's say hypothetically, it's a no vote. What does that do today? If there's a no vote today, then that means that this is tabled and that means prek will not start in September for any of the >> So

091to be clear, my comments, my personal comments, I know there's a lot of background here, but what we're actually voting on is whether we approve these agencies to be partners with the district. That's the vote. But understanding everything that goes behind that, um, this really comes down to a discussion for me of physical space and the district just simply doesn't have enough physical space. We have obligations to other students. We have obligations to contracts that we've signed with some of our employees that limit class sizes. And some of those rooms that have traditionally been used by our CBOS, we simply need for other programs in our district. Um, if we had the physical space, we would be more than happy to share it with all of our CEOs. Um, part of what our discussions were

092was how can we find more physical space not in our buildings because it doesn't exist. We have AIS classrooms that are in closets. We have PT that's going on in hallways. We are severe shortage of space. How can we find other spaces in the community that our CBOS might be able to use um that would be appropriate that we can get approved in time? So, it's not just we're going to vote on this resolution and walk away from it. We very much intend to be partners with our our community partners to try to continue find spaces that are appropriate for our prek programs to use. >> I guess I'll add the financial piece. Um, it was brought to our attention to look at finances. Um, when you go through an RFP process, the RFP process

093is the engagement that the district partners with. Um in that application process, you highlight what the rules of engagement are um and what the cost reimbursements will be. Um we've done some research um in the uh area of CBOS. Um we've met with the state to hear what other CBOS are getting paid in other communities. Um we hear the voice of this community seeking more money. Um and we realize that our rates are above some other communities. doesn't uh address the immediate need that you're sharing with the district. We heard that if we that kind of goes back to what Cully's question was any change in the RFP process means that we have to start the RFP process again. And so what the district is committed to do is to continue do doing what I've

094already done personally. When this was brought to our attention um several months ago, I began advocating at the state level um and our local legislators, and we will continue to do that. Um financially, we will look at the district to see what we can do, but there's nothing we can do now with the RFP process without going back out, no different than the conversation with the um construction manager that has to be reposted. There may be other cos in other communities that see the rate that we're paying um and want to uh receive that rate. Also, the other piece is is any rate above what we're currently offering is above the state rate and that subsidy would be paid by taxpayers. And so, we need to be thoughtful and careful on how those rates are

095calculated and that what that burden is transferable to our taxpayers. So, I guess it's just a comment that we will continue researching that and advocating. And I will say that when we met with the state week before last um they did say that any help the state realizes that the rates have been stagnant for 10 years which was shared in a couple of board meetings. Um what they said that they need is they need the CBOS and the communities to advocate at the state level so that when the state education department goes to the state and says we need more money for prek they have the level of support behind them. So that is our commitment as a district to continue that effort. Any other discussion? Ry's asked for a roll call vote. Diana, >>

096yes. >> No. >> Randy, >> no. >> Yes. Jason, >> yes. Motion passes. just kind of surprised that on the no being the discussion we just had a noble eliminating prek to start on time. I'm kind of surprised that that changed from what we just discussed. Um at this time I'd like to make a motion to direct the superintendent Dr. to investigate whether the district can legally purchase or rent space. There second for that motion is a second discussion. >> For what purpose? >> General sense. >> So the purpose that we um is to look at potentially we have some capital projects going on looking at possibly using that building for um a swing space and what if any legalities there is for using it for prek. lot of research to get to that age.

097Any other questions or discussion? All those in favor? >> Any opposed? >> Uh we are on to e approval of food service bid. >> Yes. Where is the after public advertising for pizza for the food service department? one bid has been received and is hereby awarded for the 2526 school year. Uh Daland uh corporation Pizza Hut uh cooked and delivered at 06 for serving um resulted the assistant superintendent of operations finance is authorized to issue the orders according >> motion. All right. Second, >> discussion. All those in favor. >> Any opposed? Motion passes. Item F, approval of interim K12 principal. >> Resolve upon the recommendation of Dr. Larry. legal superintendent school serving as the interim K12 principal effective August 1, 2025 shall be compensated at a daily rate of $500. This rate shall remain in

098effect until a permanent appointment of a new principal or until such time as superintendent determines that his services are no longer required in like to make that motion. Second discussion. All those in favor. >> Any opposed? Motion passes. Uh item G, approval of our personnel report. Uh be it resolve that upon the recommendation of the superintendent of schools Dr. Larry Schmele the board of education hereby approves the following resignations requirement of absence appointment probationary instructional term non-probationary instructional part-time permanent permanent part-time extend school year special education summer school substitutes instruction substitute noninstructional coaching boys coaching Girls winter coaching boys winter coaching girls winter coaching co-ed spring coaching boys spring coaching girl spring coaching >> motion see a second discussion all those in favor any >> onection Item H, approval to amend the July 1 personnel

099report. Whereas a resolution was passed by the board of education on July 1, 2025 approving the fall coaching swim lifeguard pay rate of $1,434 and 36 for Mallerie Peters and be further resolved that this amended resolution reflects a change in pay rate to be $17 per hour and is hereby approved. >> Motion second. Randy got you. Discussion. All those in favor? >> I. >> Any opposed? Passes. >> Item I, approval of an emergency preparedness agreement for 2025 26. Resolve that as part of the New York State disaster evacuation plan, the Water County City School District cover and agree to secondary temporary opening areas for the emergency preparedness agreement for Ohio Elementary School. >> Motion second discussion. A huge thank you to our community partners that allow us to use their spaces as an evacuation site.

100>> All those in favor? I >> any outpost? >> Motion passes. Uh item J, approval to dispose, recycle, or donate unused textbooks. >> Resolve that the disposal, recycle, or donation of damaged, outdated, and unused living environment textbooks from Watertown High School is hereby approved. >> Make a motion. >> All right. Second. Randy. Randy. Discussion. >> All those in favor? Any oppos? Item K, approval to dispose, recycle, auction, or donate unused IT equipment. >> Whereas the Watertown City School District has identified unused and outdated technology equipment that is no longer needed. Uh resolve that the board uh authorizes the disposal, recycle or sale of these items via public auction or other reasonable means. Further resolve, any items not sold may be discarded or recycled at management discretion. Uh further resolved. The IT coordinator is authorized to

101oversee the sale or disposal process and is hereby approved. >> Make a motion. Any second? >> All right. Discussion in favor. >> Any opposed? Motion passes. Uh item L, approval of an independent athlete. >> Resolve that in seconds. Harbor student is hereby authorized to uh practice and travel with the Watertown High School varsity swim team for the 2526 season. The athlete will compete under Sackets Harbor Schools. >> Take a motion. >> Lori Lori second >> Tina got discussion. >> I know this has come up before but I just want to ask it again. This is with the other. We would never unseat one of our athletes for >> question. All those in favor? >> Any oppose? Motion passes. Item N, approval of a donation. >> Resolve that a donation of $1,000 for eia from Watertown

102uh to support the welcome back to Watertown event. This very generous donation is gratefully accepted and approved and will be acknowledged in writing. >> Randy second discussion. All those in favor. Any opposed? Passes. Item and approval of the donations resulted. A donation of $300 from Sunday at leisure in Watertown to uh support the welcome back to Watertown event. This generous donation is gratefully accepted and approved and will be acknowledged in writing. >> Motion Randy and Lori discussion in favor. >> Any opposed? Motion passes. Item O approval of a donation >> resulted a donation of $300 from Jack SS to support the uh welcome back to Watertown event. This donation is gratefully accepted in approved and will be acknowledged in writing >> motion. Randy second discussion. Those in favor. >> Any opposed? Motion passes. Uh item

103P approval of a donation. >> Resolve that a donation of $500 from Watertown Savings Bank to support the welcome back uh to Watertown event. This generous donation is gratefully accepted and approved and will be acknowledged in writing. >> Motion Randy second by session. Those in favor. >> Any opposed? Motion passes and all the way down to item two. Approval of regulation. resulted in a donation of $100 from Encompass Workplace Testing LLS to support the WON back to Watertown event. Um, this donation is greatly accepted and approved and will be in writing. Take a motion second time discussion. Big thank you to all those organizations that have supported that that opportunity for our students. All those in favor? Any opposed? Um we are at our public comment point. Any public comments not agenda related to the

104evening? I just want to say um on the UPK partnerships you said it was based on the highest scores but per the foil request I received there were no scores. We never received any scores. So I want does anybody want to speak to that or can you speak to that? >> I can say legal can advise and we'll get back to you. Thank you for the question. >> This is I mean this is opening yourself up to an article 78 lawsuit. There were no scores. It is public information. The scores are public information. And we would have been happy to turn around a 48 hour RFP if it meant that there was going to be a more equitable allocation. Absolutely. 100% hands down. I just have a couple qu I apologize. I came back in

105late so I missed part of your discussion. I just want to understand. So I heard Michelle read, you know, everyone who submitted an RFP and then after that um who the board decided they were going to um support for CVOs. So my question is what exactly was agreed upon? Because I'm hearing Cully say you guys are saying no. If you're saying no, that means that you're not allowing these CVOs to start school on September 2nd. So, I'm missing like I'm missing like who is actually getting allocations and what exactly did what exactly does the resolution mean? >> The resolution means that those are the board approach who the district does partnership with. The district assigns the allocations, >> right? So what allocations are being assigned to all those CBOS that you know that you >>

106I don't have that information at this time yet. >> Okay. So you're still going to discuss that? >> Yes. >> Okay. >> As a district. >> So >> not the board. >> I'm sorry. >> Not the board. >> Not so the So what you're saying, Larry, is that the board doesn't need to approve the allocations for the CBOS. >> That's correct. the board's responsibility is approving who the district can do partnership with. >> So it is possible then that you can come back and say for example last year you had 10 CBOS, right? The district took back two spots from that because you you put in a special ed program at Case Middle School and then the district is taking two classes to do their own 4410s in house. Correct. >> Not sure where you're

107getting the math from. No, >> it's not math. >> 10 classrooms. There were 10 classrooms. >> Hold on. Let me just explain myself because you So, what I'm asking is there were Right. So there were 10 classrooms and the district took two of those for physical I'm talking about physical space. That's what I'm talking about. We don't just like John said and I agree with him. There is no physical space anymore. Like you've maxed out your physical space. So what I'm saying is that the district has now decided that they're going to implement their own 4410 UPK program. So obviously you need two classroom spaces that were previously allocated to CBOS. You're going to take that back for the district. >> Those classrooms are going to be used for students, >> right? Okay. Well, that

108makes sense because if that that's your district and you want those I get that. So that reduces it to eight. And then my understanding is, and you correct me if I'm wrong, that the district also put two CLA two classrooms into the middle school for special ed. So the the total classrooms that the district needs out of our spaces for our students in our program is five. I'm not sure. >> So you the district needs five is what you're saying. Yes. >> So you can only give five to the CBOS. >> I don't have the exact numbers out here to share that number. But what I do know is that we are using five of our classrooms for spaces that we needed. >> Okay. I understand what you're saying, but you're not answering my question.

109and I don't have your answer and I can write it down and get back to you. >> No, that's not satisfactory. Like this is public information and if you are dictating this outcome then you should have all that information at your tip of your fingers. I'm a taxpaying citizen. >> Write it down and get back. >> So you should know this though like you just put out a resolution. So we had 10 >> included the resolution included who we partnership with. No, I I've answered the questions the best that I can for right now. >> No, you've answered the question as much as you want. >> Okay, I'm gonna move on to something else. That's fine. If you want to do that, you can. You have every right to do that. My second question is

110um in your and I again I missed this so if you said this already, I apologize for asking again. Um in your agenda, you put out the legal contracts. So, the district is now going to um collaborate with two dis two two different law firms. One, two, which you had said when I was on the board to protect us from any questions, legal questions regarding the capital improvement project. And now I see that you're going to use a second agent, a second legal firm for anything else. And in those agenda listed items, you put in the contracts and the amount spent. My question to you is why wasn't that why wasn't the same amount of information provided for construction associates? There was an RFP process that went out. These are tax dollars that are being

111paid by the community. And if you're granting and if the board is voting on construction associates that is public information as to what that bid was, what we're paying them, and what that contract looks like. And I believe I sent you an email and I didn't receive a response. I'm sure it was because it was a late one and you were coming here, which I totally understand, but I'm asking now on public, why wasn't that information included? And if it was just an omission, that's fine. But I'm very interested in finding out what that what that contract looks like and what we are paying construction associates to cover us for the capital improvement project. Is that something that we can answer now? >> I will look into that and get back to you. So, you're

112not going to answer that either. >> It's not a bid. It's an RFP, >> right? But there's an amount that >> you ask the board to vote >> and a contract and there's no dollar amount that was disclosed on there. >> That is public information. >> Yeah. The board had that information make the decision. >> Again, that is public information. It's tax dollars and it should be made available to the public to see what we're paying for construction associates, right? Like so I I think that that you know we we are we really need to work more towards being transparent so that we are all on the same page. We don't need to hide any dollars like it's all our money anyway. So there should be no secret there. It should be something that and

113I think that's a short sight when you're putting this agenda together. That's a short sight and it shouldn't in the future when you're we're voting on a contract when the board that's representing the community is voting on a cont voting on a contract. We should know what we're voting on. We should be made aware of that. So, as far as those two are my questions and as you can see, I didn't get any responses. So, >> I'm sure you will. >> Thank you. I'd appreciate that. I and and if I don't, I'll follow up with you. >> Please do. >> Okay. >> Um I have a comment aside from what Millie has said. Um when you uh mention that the five classrooms are for the district kids, just be careful because the children that are

114at our CBOS are the district kids. >> Absolutely. I agree. >> So there are all all of the students are district students, district programs in different spaces. >> I'd like to make a comment. My name is Melissa Jenkins. I'm the director for Head Start at CAPC. Um, as an agency, we've been delivering Head Start in this community for 60 years. We are the model for preK. I'm getting emotional because the decision made to cut slots is going to affect not only every child and parent, but your mission. It starts at three and four. And this decision is going to impact families for years. to say that they're district children and and and and to your comment, how do you justify $1.2 million for two classrooms and the others being funded at the rates they're being

115funded at? That's a huge disparity. How do you choose what children get to two classrooms at $1.2 million when we're lucky if we can run one class on $180,000? Also, the RFP process was not transparent. It was changed this year. When questions were asked, we were not given clarity. As a CBO who has delivered preK in this district for 29 years, we have never been treated the way we have this year by Watertown, but we've never been treated like this by any school district. It's sad that a relationship, not just ours, but others have been very hurt. We serve children. We serve families. That's our mission. That's what all of us can do. The Ark's been operating for longer than we have. We know how to deliver high quality programs. We're And to say, you're

116right. There's no room in the schools, but you want us to run them inhouse at our cost. You're not giving us the rates to run them and operate them like we should. So, how do you decide what children get the two classrooms at 1.2 2 million. How do you decide that? And what about the rest of the pre-k children? >> I just want to add one more thing. I almost forgot. You know, we need to be careful about when this board decides that they want to abstain because there's a conflict of interest because a conflict of interest only comes to play when there's a financial gain by a particular individual. So Jason, if you don't have a financial gain by being on the board at new date, that does not grant you the opportunity to

117abstain from any vote. And we also have to be careful that we have two board members that do have financial gain from this district because their spouses are hired by the district. So when we start playing the abstaining game where I can't vote because it's a conflict of interest, we need to be that needs to be a standard across the board and it needs to be fair to everyone. >> I I can speak for myself. I must be fair. I know exactly what the law says, what I can and I can't vote on because I have a spouse that works in the district. >> Um so I've done my homework. I've done my research. I've talked to the New York State School Boards Association. So, >> yeah, I know. >> I know exactly where that

118line is. >> Yeah. And so do I because that was looked into prior. So, I'm not I'm not singling you. All I'm just saying is that when Jason says, "I'm abstaining because I'm on the new day board." He doesn't need to do that because he there's no financial gain there. So, we just have to be on even playing ground and we have to understand what the rules are. And all I'm saying is I'm just cautioning everyone across the board. Be careful when you abstain. Obviously, you're not going to abstain from everything. You know, I get that. But we need to follow the rules. And the rules are you did not need to abstain. You no one's giving you a freebie for your daughter. And you're not getting any kickbacks from a new day. So that

119allows you to play a role just like John and just like Cullie. >> Anyone else for public comment? >> Yeah, I'd just like to say something. First of all, um, obviously I appreciate what you guys do, but this problem would have never been here if there wasn't clarity in the beginning. Larry, I'm sorry, but you were not clear with this community. You came into this community and you did things you wanted to do for retaliation or whatever it was. You did not inform your board. You put your board in the worst spot ever that they could be in. We didn't have to be here. Not at all. And I think you owe the public an apology for that because this could have been worked out a long time ago before we even got to this

120point. We would have scred and found space if need be, but not at the last minute. You put your board in a bad position at the last minute. That's on you. And that's on these children that now are going to suffer because of the decisions that you made. I hope that things change. They need to change because these children in this community are the ones that are going to suffer. You wonder why we have people on DSS. You wonder why we have homeless people? Is because you're not giving the proper opportunity to the kids, these CBOs that have the experience to move these kids through. Did you call these CBOs and tell them that you had a problem with the way they were teaching the kids and it wasn't working? Probably not. So, what did

121they do so wrong that you went and pulled this away from them? Shame on you. and shame on what you did to this board. As a community member, I am appalled at what you did to our community. I love our community. We are strong in this community and you didn't give a a hoot about the community. We were supposed to have a meeting and you failed to respond to us at CAPC and I was included in that email. Why? That's what I'd like to know. We were willing to step up and talk with you, but you blew us off. And we're not the only ones in the community that you have blown off from what I've heard. And you put your poor secretary, Michelle, in a spot where she couldn't probably respond because you told

122her not to. Michelle's from this community and so are your other people that work for you in this community. You put them in a bad spot because they can't speak their peace. They can't respond to an email and says, "Okay, we'll get back to you. We'll see if Larry this will work for Larry. Instead, you just blew us off completely. We tried to fix this. We tried to work with you and you did the wrong thing. Shame on you. Any other public comment? Any items for discussion or information anybody would like to bring up? Upcoming dates August 19th will be the next regular board of education meeting at 4 p.m. on district office conference room and uh look around the districts. >> Yeah. Um, I don't have a whole lot. Um, I want to congratulate

123you in color bank on being the president and the vice president. Um, I think the tennis courts look absolutely amazing. I'm excited about all the things that I'll be able to come now because of that. Um, and I want to congratulate our aids that are our assistants and our assistants that are now teachers. Um, I think that's phenomenal. They they did a good job. So, That's all I have to say. >> Nothing except um at some future meeting I want to talk about that guy over here has done for the last three years, but I need to get ready to do that. Not tonight. slow. >> I actually went to the STEM camp family day a few weeks ago and I was able to see um some of the projects that the kids did um

124and some of the teachers working with them and so there was a lot of positive feedback about that program. Um, I just conclude this evening with I would be disappointed if we if our community wasn't passionate about our children. That would be an even worse sign than having contentious discussions. Um, but obviously our community is very passionate about our children. And now it's our job as a board to try to try to path forward. we can make sure that we are trying to find the absolute best for every one of our students from prek all the way up to our seniors. Uh and uh I know that the members of this board are committed to doing that. Um I don't think we got this one entirely right. Uh that's obvious. All we can do is

125um take our licks from the community, which I'm sure we will and we are. Um and we will u try to learn our lesson and and get it right get it better next time. Um with that we are journed. >> Can I just add one thing >> please? We we missing