001[Music] It is 7:21. I will call the meeting to order. We stand to pledge allegiance to the flag [Applause] to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for it stands one nation under God indivisible with liberty and justice for all. We will move on to recognize our 24 25 retirees. [Music] First, please. [Applause] [Music] It is my honor to recognize Lisa's well-deserved retirement. And I could not stand up here and speak to her long and storied career in the district. So, I'll instead take a moment to recognize a couple of the things that have really stood out to me in the time that I've worked with her. So, the first thing that you might see every day when you come into the high school is Lisa greeting everyone at the
002door in the morning with a smile. And it's that warmth and approachability that I think really helps her to form some good relationships with others. Over the last two years, I've seen Elisa make great connections with students she's worked with to support. And she's built strong relationships and been a resource to those students, especially those who maybe not have as many connections with others. So, please join me in a round of applause for this. [Music] [Applause] [Music] [Applause] I stand here with mixed emotions as I congratulate on her time. She's more than earned it, but her absence will be lost. Eileen is a safe space for so many students who come to her for help, a kind and sympathetic ear, and so many other things. Since I've been in the district, Eileen and Annette Bell
003have worked closely together, not just to teach and support their students, but to do so much good for all the student, staff, and the community at large. I speak about them together because they have been an inseparable force for them. And I know better than the challenge in FL with that one. They work together to take care of students. They organize meal trainings and other supports for staff in need, organize donations and drives for families in need. And just so much more that they do behind the scenes. Eileen has more than earned her retirement, but I hope that we see her sings so we don't have to imagine what things will look like without her. Please join me in a round of applause for [Applause] So, I have the honor of recognizing I have the
004honor this evening recognizing people will be career with Central School District in 1999. She was first employed as a substitute and short time later hired to a permanent custodial worker position. Much later on in her career, BA was promoted to a custodian position which meant she had even more responsibilities including staff supervision. Ba worked for several years at the former student elementary school alongside her sister-in-law, Mrs. Carol Saunders. She would eventually move into a position at Verona Elementary School where she remained until her final day. You see, Biola came from a large family and married into an equally large family with a wellestablished reputation here in the handler of Cherry Plain. It is also the place where she and her husband Charlie built their home high at top ruin mountain in the area Dutch Church.
005They would go on to raise several children of their own as well as foster children, many of whom reside locally and have gone on to have great careers themselves. Bula's actual retirement date was January 24th, 2025. And what I think she looked forward to most was not having to drive down off the mountain in the snow or other, but rather could just stand or sit in the warmth of her living room and smile as she looked out the window, knowing she didn't have to make that awful trip until her clear is one of the few remaining members of the old guard. She's worked hard hard all the time I've known her. Always cared about the students and staff and the quality of the classrooms and office areas they had to come into the next day
006and was someone I could always count on and confine. We truly had a very special work relationship. Ula has spent time in retirement catching up on all the things around the house she kept putting off, working outdoors in her many flower gardens, caring for grandchildren, and of course, keeping a closer eye on Charlie. So, it's time for us to say thank you to a woman who had a distinguished career in the place where it all began more than 26 years ago. A woman who is rich in what matters most, family and friends. a woman who we wish all the best that retirement has done. Congratulations. [Applause] Good evening. We're here tonight to recognize and celebrate the retirement of Trish. excited her as she embarks on a new chapter of her life after 28 years with
007the district. Trisha was ready to move on and we had the pleasure of helping her to count the days down until her retirement. Her new chapter included buying a new home and relocating to be closer to her children and grandchildren that she so missed. While she left her friends behind, she has left a lasting impression in all our hearts. Trish held a few different positions in the district from teaching assistant to computer technician and served some time as a coach to many of our athletes. She brought strength and encouragement to her athletes and always encourage them to do their very best. During Trish Trish's time in the IT department, she played a key role in some rather large projects to carry out such as the replacement of all of our district time blocks, new wireless
008access points in every classroom at the middle school, high school level, elementary, and new transportation facility. She worked on network cabling upgrades and additions and took a prominent role in contacting vendors, organizing meetings and walkthroughs, obtaining quotes, and providing all the necessary information pertaining to equipment upgrades to submit feedback, just to name a few. She was always easy eager to handle larger projects and took pride at completion of each project. Unfortunately, she'll not be here to see the Smart Schools bond project come to fruition and the hard work she put into that. While I could write more, I can already hear Trish in my head telling me not to do a speech on her behalf or just make it short. She likes to avoid recognition. Sorry, Trish. This is your night of recognition. On behalf
009of my team of one, as we always refer to one another, I want to express where I'll get emotional. my sincere gratitude and appreciation for everything she brought to the department over the years. Thank you for all your hard work, dedication, friendship, and teamwork. Thank you for all the laughs and funny stories we shared, the therapy sessions, tears, and support provided through some rough and very difficult times, and a great friendship that will never be forgotten. Your support was unwavering. On behalf of myself, Katherine Phillips, and all the faculty and staff at BCSD, we wish you all the best in your retirement. We will truly miss you. Be safe, stay healthy, and enjoy those grand babies. Congratulations, Trish. I believe that she'll be listening to this tonight. Congratulations [Applause] to all of our retired on
010to our tenure. Anna loves spotlight. Tonight it's my privilege to recognize someone who represents the very best of what it means to be a teacher. This is Hannah. Hannah joined our early community as sixth grade math teacher. From day from day one, she brought a rare combination of intelligence, empathy, structure, and sincerity. Everything she does. She's the kind of teacher every parent hopes their child. She's patient, firm, kind, but clear, and always, always focus on helping our students. Now, if you know Hannah, you know she's deeply reflective about the breakfast. She all she's always thinking, always planning, always asking how to do things better. That leads me to one of my favorite. Earlier this year, we had a few conversations about her math lab. This is a new course. Hannah wanted to make sure she
011was getting it right. She kept telling me, "I know what it isn't. It's not just stationary." I nodded and kept talking at her. Maybe I had vision of station work or not so much. So we had quite a few discussions about then I came into observe the lesson was fantastic. Students were moving talking about math collaborated engaged. Every group had a purpose. Every station well even called that had an intention. When we debriefed, I smiled and said, "Hannah, I think you just taught one of the best non-stationary station lessons I've ever seen." But that's Hannah. She sets a high bar for herself, ask all the right questions, and then quietly goes out and crushes it. She has helped raise the standard of instruction in our middle school. She's a steady and supportive teammate. And most
012importantly, she's helped our students, so many students, discover that they are capable of more than they imagine, especially in the subject where confidence can be fragile. Tonight, we proudly congratulate Hannah on ear. It's not just a milestone. It's a recognition of years of excellence, commitment to kids, and they believe in public education. Hannah, we are so grateful for your presence, your professionalism, and your quality. You are the future of Berlin's National Park. You make us better every single congratulations. You are not. Good evening. It's my pleasure to speak for honor. Sorry. It's my pleasure to speak about Taylor Meyer as she is recommended for tenure in her elementary tender area. In her four years here at Berlin Elementary School, Taylor has served as a both a math interventionist as well as a fourth grade teacher.
013When Taylor joined our school community, she quickly learned that flexibility and knowing how to adapt to everchanging circumstances are keys to success. In our different roles at EES, she has utilized data to plan interventions, monitor student progress, and make instructional decisions to help students be the best they can be. She shows flexibility in her approach to teaching, and adjusts her instruction to accommodate her students needs. Taylor is a strong collaborator and works well with her whole team. One of Taylor's greatest strengths is her ability to build relationships with her students. She gives of her time often to provide meaningful conversations to support both their academic and emotional needs. Students see her as someone they can trust and who help them when needed. It is not unusual to see Taylor out in the hallway having a
014one-on-one conversation with a student who needs that little extra bit of encouragement to keep trying. Taylor has also contributed to the larger school community in a number of ways. She served as a member of our character education committee and our diversity leadership team. Additionally, she often volunteers to lead groups for afterchool enrichment as well as volunteers for time with planning family events. So please join me in congratulating Taylor Meyer [Applause] Jennifer. It's an honor to stand here tonight to recognize someone whose talent, creativity, and commitment our entire school. Many of you know that Jen already holds 10 minutes. And as any student who's been lucky enough to sit in the classroom will tell you, she's phenomenal. Tonight, we celebrate different well. Since stepping into this role, Jenna has reimagined what a school library can be.
015She's transformed it into a that goes beyond books. A space where curiosity is nurtured, where collaboration is encouraged, where learning comes alive unexpected acceptance. One of the things I admire most is her creative approach to instruction. She she doesn't just support school, she empowers students. I remember walking in the library one day and seeing one of her lessons in action. Students were huddled around tables, curiously solving riddles, analyzing clues, and unlocking mysterious tools. It was an escape room activity that wasn't just funny games. Every element was tied to a learning objective. More importantly, students were thinking Jen had set the stage request. Pride on their faces as collaborating to solve each. That's what student engagement is supposed to look like. That's what Jes lessons, curating digital resources, or support teachers and students alike. Jen brings
016imagination, intelligence, and warmth to every corner of the building. Tonight, we recognize Jen not only for her outstanding contributions in the library, but for her unwanted belief in the power of student. Jen, you've earned this moment and Glenn is lucky to have you. Congratulations, [Applause] James. every time. It is my honor to formally recognize James Taylor first and as opposed to my informal recognition at our last board meeting. Uh James's strongest qualities as a school counselor are his commitment to curling, his strong advocacy for students, and his mindset. James is deeply committed to the district and the community at large. He offers himself up as a resource for families and strives to do all he can to connect with those who need support with various community organizations and agencies that can provide it and if
017distribute this information and pretty much every event, every night, every weekend, James is there. James is also a strong advocate for students and he is not afraid to tackle large issues. He works closely with administrators, teachers, and others to bring these issues to the forefront and address them to improve the school community and make it an inviting space for everyone. Throughout his work here, James serves as an example of a growth mindset. He is constantly self-reflecting and working hard to improve upon himself and the district. His efforts, the effort he puts into this process shows and serves as a model for everyone who comes into contact. Doing the work of a school counselor is not easy. He'll encounter many challenges, including many that feel too big to take on. However, James does not shy away
018from these challenges, but takes them head on. He works with administrators, teachers, parents, students, and the community to attack these problems in order to help make Berlin a better place for them. James has made a significant and distinct impact on Berlin in the four short years he's been here and I'm excited to see all the good that he will do for the greater Berlin community in Please join me in a round of applause for James. [Applause] Congratulations to all of our tenure. [Applause] Next is our target service of board members and in her three years as a member of board of education, Andrea has exemplify dedication and leadership, constantly prioritizing the best in interests of our district. Her contributions have been instrumental in driving positive change in fostering a first a student first environment. Among
019her key initiative was successfully a member of the merch sports committee. By working on this committee, Andrea demonstrated a commitment to providing students with diverse opportunities to participate in athletics, promoting teamwork and personal growth while also protecting our district. Um, additionally, she played a vital role in the audit committee, ensuring transparency and accountability in our district's financial practices. Her focus on fiscal responsibility has helped safeguard the district's resources, allowing for better allocation towards educational programs and student services. Throughout her tenure as a board member, Andrea has been a steadfast advocate for the district's best interests, always striving to make informed decisions that benefit students, staff, taxpayers, and the community community. As she concludes her time on the board of education, we extend our gratitude for her unwrap commitment and impactful service. Thank you. The next
020is Sher Bowman Cluck. During her six years of service on the board of education, Sherry has made significant contributions that have positively shaped our district. Her commitment to enhancing educational opportunities and promoting inclusivity has been evident in every initiative she has undertaken. One of Sherry's notable achievements was successfully leading the merch sports committee. This initiative not only streamlines the sports program but also fostered a sense of community and teamwork among stakeholders including students in the rooster club. By heading this committee, she demonstrated exceptional leadership and a deep understanding of the importance of extracurricular activities in student development. In addition to her work in athletics, Sherry has been a passionate advocate for special education. Her tireless champ tirelessly championed the needs of students with disabilities, ensuring that they receive the support and resources necessary to thrive
021both academically and socially. Her efforts have created a more inclusive environment where every student can succeed. As Sherry concludes her tenure on the board of education, we celebrate the lasting impact she has made on our district. Her dedication to education and advocacy for all students will continue to inspire and help shape the district in the years to come. Thank you, Sharers. [Applause] And lastly, it's my turn to recognize Dr. Wong. In a time when our district was engulfed in chaos and faced an unprecedented challenges, Dr. Wong stepped in with unwavering and determination in a fair vision. Recognizing their urgent need for stability, she diligently worked to stabilize both the district's finances and its operations. Through strategic planning and tireless effort, she not only addressed immediate concerns, but also laid the groundwork for long-term success. Dr.
022Long's experience and dedication has made a profound impact on our district, leaving a legacy that will resonate for years to come. Her leadership has not only guided us through turbulent times, it has also inspired confidence among staff students in the community. Moreover, Dr. Long has set a clear pathway for the future by fostering an environment that attracted qualified applicants for her succession. This forwardinking approach ensures that the district will continue to thrive even as it translates to new leadership. As we reflect upon Dr. Wong's contributions, we are reminded of the strength and resilience that she brought to our district. Her commitment to excellence excellence will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression pave paving the way for continued growth and success. Dr. Long, enjoy your retirement and hopefully his retirement lasts longer than four months. [Applause] [Music]
023[Applause] And you're going to ask music department performance. I'm just going to be laugh. Okay, come on. So, uh, you may have noticed that our our, uh, chamber ensemble that wanted to perform to you for you tonight is a little, uh, bare bones. Uh, unfortunately, our chamber singers, just as uh, you know, many of our other high schoolers are, realized just how strenuous the regent exams were going to be on them. And, um, between that and are not able to join us tonight. But Jay and Lily showed up first thing and said, "We still want to sing. [Music] [Applause] Y. So, we're just going to be singing excerpts of one of the songs we're actually singing at graduation next week. Oh my gosh, it's here. Um, and this is going to be a love moment
024arranged by Jonathan Quick. So, enjoy our little trio up here. Yay. All right. [Music] I [Music] praise the sun shines Right. Never [Music] mind. [Music] Sh on the se of [Applause] you [Music] and the moon calling Amen. [Music] I touch my ear again [Music] D [Music] 2 3 4 5 [Applause] [Music] Hallelujah. [Music] Dire. [Applause] I [Music] d [Music] and my true love will Never meet again. The body of the Lord [Applause] [Music] [Applause] So, it's been an exciting, busy year for the music department. Um, we had lots of events this year and we brought a lot of kids to NISMA. So, tonight I wanted to feature two of our NISMA soloists. Um, NISMA is a solo festival where they go and they play for an adjudicator. They get comments and a rating. Um, so
025I brought two of my top people tonight. So, first we're going to have Chris Paratti Sus. I call him Crispy. Um, he is going to play the redhaired boy. He scored a 27 out of 28 at NISMA, which is extremely difficult. He was my highest scorer of the whole year. So, super proud of him. And he's going to show you his math skills. [Applause] [Music] [Applause] And now we have Joselyn Webster. She also played um Oh, I meant to um to mention both of these students played up with the high school this year. So, they played the high school music. They went on the high school field trip. Jos's only in sixth grade and Christiey's only in seventh grade. So, that's a testament to their talents. They're just amazing kids. So, Joselyn is going to
026play just a snippet of the magic flute. And this is a level three for a sixth grader, which is exceptionally difficult. A lot of times eighth and ninth graders will do level threes. So a level three is in sixth grade is exception. Go for it. Get in. [Music] [Applause] [Music] [Applause] [Music] [Applause] [Music] [Applause] [Music] [Applause] Thank you. Hello. We wanted to present to you a trip that we're looking at going on in 2027. It's spring. We have researched this trip. I'm planning on leading it with the mentorship of Karen Day who's done many of these trips. I've had the privilege of going to Costa Rica once already and to England as well. So we have a couple speakers who like to talk about I'm George. Um we are hoping to visit Costa Rica during
027the spring break of 2027. We're traveling with educational travel adventures GTA. While we are there, we will be visiting the Arnold volcano area in the Manuel Antonio National Park. You can see the volcano right there. Um, other highlights of our trip include a chocolate tour, hot spring visits, zipline tour of the rainforest canopy, um, visit to animal rescue centers and cooking class, and a guided hiking private service. Um, the cost of the trip includes all meals, airfare from Albany, all hotels and transition. The cost per student will be around three $3,300. We plan this trip for two years in advance to have time to do plenty of fundraising to help students with the cost. We have printed off flyers with information for you. We currently have 45 students who have expressed interest in. This past
028April, we brought 20 students to England along with a number of parents and one member of the class of 2024. 16 of the 20 students and their families participated in various fundraising activities we ran to help offset their costs. All combined, they raised over $4,500. If we're able to offer them the opportunity to travel to Costa Rica during spring break of 2027, we will absolutely be planning fundraisers for the next group of students and their families so that they can afford to have the experience of traveling and seeing how big the world truly is. We we know the cost is high. We have traveled with um EF tours before. This time we're going with a different company, Educational Travel Adventures. We researched and Karen and I had um we looked at three different companies. Explorica,
029Educational First, and ETA. This one was by far $1,200 cheaper than the others. We felt we talked to the tour guide that we will have in Costa Rica. Um, personally video conferences call with him and we feel that this one offered an equivalent experience that the others that we've traveled to. Um, we read we did a lot of research on this company. Is there any questions? Has any other school used this part that that we don't know um of the reviews that we read. I know that your love travels with me also. Um I've spoken with people that have traveled with Explorica. We actually traveled with Explorica back in 2011 and it was not the best experience. Um so then we were fortunate enough joined the school district and they had experience with EF which
030we've had success with. Um, unfortunately their their price is $1,200 more than this company and it doesn't give us as much as this company does. I feel like you have a lot of downtime on the trips and this one includes all the taxes and gratuitities. And this one obviously flies out of whereas the other ones were out of Boston and New York which added another $4,800 to the other trip because we transportation department. Absolutely. So the sooner we can get our families um started the lower their payments will be. That will be the next step is that we'll meet with them and they'll set up the website for parents to there's 45 students that are interested. Yes. there's been a couple like if I pay first will I get to go. So there's a lot
031of excitement. So my my question is always I heard I heard the fundraising um but being that the price point is a lot higher um students have the opportunity that don't have the money always and you know always we make it we put it out there that if you're interested and we have fundraising available if you want to work for it we can make it happen for you and we had one family sent three of their children to England and they participated in the fundraising as well. So, we had another family mother and son went. They actually they just I want to say I think they had $1,500 alone because they were so dedicated to the fundraising. The cost to England was actually more than this cost. Oh, yeah. Costa. England, I think, was $900
032more expensive than this. I just always wanted to make sure that everyone which is one more reason why we stopped doing every year because you know for the longest time we were doing every single year which it just it was too much for me. I know I can't do it anymore. So any other board members question by Frank to approve the trip to Costa Rica for the spring break of 2027. And a second by Sherry Derek. Yes. Kim, yes. Penny, yes. Sherry, yes. Andrea, yes. Thank you. [Music] So community tables Hello, my name is Owen and I'm graduating next week. I'm going to be graduating with him next week as you an Eagle Scout Service Project is a significant community service project that scouts BSA members plan, organize, and lead to earn Eagle Scout rank.
033It demonstrates leadership, planning and problem solving abilities while benefiting the school religious institution or community organization. With the guidance from Lee King, the Metrap Arts Letters and Numbers and creator of the original table, I Owen Lowry alongside Mace aming in the full cycle of woodworking from raw material to finished use. Our project begins with an introduction to design concepts and basic joinery techniques, moving into hands-on woodworking that blends craftsmanship and purpose. The goal is to create commercial gradede tables for shared spaces crafted not only for utility but as meaningful symbols of gathering, dialogue, and connection. As a scout working towards the eagle reign, I would like to respectfully request Berlin Middle High School serve as the beneficiary of the project. I propose placing one commemorative table on campus, potentially in front of the cafeteria, at
034the main entrance, or wherever the district feels it would be most impactful. I would like to thank you for your time. Well, all of us would like to thank for your time. We are truly honored to put our table out there so we can benefit the community and central school district. Thank you again for your time. [Music] Question. Are you looking for approval from us to have it? There's a table out there. I was walking around the last Where did this come from? It's very nice. Very nice of me. This is Lee King. He is the designer and creator of the original community table. I just wanted you to say hi. Greetings to the board and to residents, students, and teachers. This is uh this this is um an honor and I would like to
035give a little bit of background uh as to this iconic community table. It was uh originally uh designed 20 years ago when my little daughter was getting married and I was an artisan and I needed to come up with a wedding present for her. So, I designed and built the first one and the ergonomic design of it has been consistent ever since that time. And as I said, that was 20 years ago, and I've built less than 20 of these to this date. Never sold one, never intend to sell one, but they are built and donated for fundraising causes. They are dedicated to community centers and to commemorate people in our community who have provided distinguished service. Now I am currently developing a mentoring program at arts letters and numbers and this is another honor.
036I have a very symbiotic relationship with arts, letters and numbers in that they are providing me with a space where I can actually generate a manufacturing facility so that I can provide greater number of these to the to the greater cost of individuals uh throughout our community. Now, as a uh teaching platform, it just happens to be that the Takana community table just in develops all of what we really do need to practice uh the teaching of safety and layout and cutting and accuracy etc. So, this is part by design is part by uh confidentiality that the pieces are are fitting together here. the pilot program uh which is ongoing and involved Mr. Lowry and and Mr. Mason has been successful in that they are um they are they are astute people. They paid attention.
037They cooperated. They were enthusiastic and it's been an absolute joy to work with them. I want to explain to you my passion for mentoring. When I was their age, there were mentors who took me under their wing and harnessed my aptitudes towards a challenging and successful career. those mentors, they're passed on at this point. So, I realize that it is it is my opportunity to step up to the plate and be a mentor as well. This is an opportunity where the the young personnel that I am mentoring are learning and I am learning from them. I am learning how to be a better teacher for them. I want to congratulate you for having a beautiful facility and having a a really beautiful campus here. And I'm hoping that if my mentoring program can extend to
038the point where I would like it to be, I hope that we can we can find our pilot program in conjunction with Berlin Central School to be one where we can populate your campus with more and more of these. So, I look forward to working with the personnel here. And I'm going to take one other opportunity here, even though I know she's very, very shy about this. I want to commemorate Shannon as our art director for being a person who has recognized the art in the creation that Nate and Owen have created here. She has been very instrumental. She has been supportive and outside of the realm of what you would normally expect for an an art director. So, I want to offer up a round of applause for Shannon. [Applause] Can I get everybody?
039Yes. Yes. Thank you. Penny. Yes. Yes, absolutely. Thank you. [Applause] So, we will move on to minutes. Minutes of the regular meeting from May 21st, 2025. Can I get a motion to approve? Motion by Frank. A second. Second by Sherry. Derek, how do you vote? Kim, yes. Penny, yes. Frank, yes. Sherry, yes. Andrea, yes. And yes, as well. The minutes of the round table meeting held on June 5th, 2025. Can I get a motion? Motion by Frank. A second. Second by Sherry. Derek, how do you vote? Kim. Penny? Yes. Frank? Yes. Sherry? Yes. Andrea? And I'm a yes. Opportunity for public comment regarding the consent agenda items. I identify the comments. Okay. All right. So, we will move on to the consent agenda items and we have to pull D to vote on that one
040separately. I'll make a motion on the rest of the consent agenda items. So, Frank will make a motion. A B C E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R. I feel like I'm at home. Yeah. A through C and E through R. Um, can I get a motion? Motion by Frank. Second. A second by Kim. Derek, yes. Kim, yes. Penny, yes. Frank, yes. Sherry, yes. Andrea, yes. And Amma, yes. The next is D. Um, SQA for resolution um, Burl Elementary School $100,000 capital project. Can we get a motion to move D? Move it. I'll second. Motion by Frank, second by Derek. Derek, yes. Kim, yes. Penny, yes. Frank, yes. Sharon, Andrea, yes. And Alan, yes. Thank you. On to President's report, which I will keep brief. Earlier we came
041together to recognize and celebrate two significant milestones. Those receiving tenure and those embarking on retirement. Um congratulations to our tenure teachers, educators and counselor. Uh this is a remarkable moment in your career and I'm proud to have you as part of our educational community and I look forward to seeing the continued influence you have on the years to come. And then I would also like just to give a heartfelt thankful um thank you to our retirees as you transition into the new phases of your life. I hope you carry with you many fond memories of your time at Burl. Um to both groups, thank you for your hard work, passion, and commitment to our education in Berlin community. Thank you. Um, and then the last item I just want to u make people aware of
042is Prer County is offering a rural summer food program aimed to provide breakfast and lunch to children um in our area uh seven days a week which includes holidays and uh weekends. Um the program runs from the end of June through the end of August. So pretty much the entire summer. Um pickup locations will be at the PBMCC in Petersburg and the Grafton and Steven Town libraries. Um this is a great resource to ensure children receive meals throughout the summer. Um there is a registration requirement. Um and Rachel puts all that information on our Facebook page and we can also help target those that receive assistance through our health program. That's all I have. your turn. I would just like to uh thank the Berlin school community for the opportunity to have served you for
043the last almost two years. Um I'm pretty excited that we ended on this board meeting because we had a lot of kids doing a lot of great things and that's why we do what we do. All of the other stuff is hard. It's messy. We've had our share of that, but what we saw tonight makes that all worthwhile. I I think I've made a little bit of an impact. I hope I have. I I judge that in part by my first meeting when we went to the consent agenda and personnel and I had to move into a 45minute executive session. We're beyond that now. So that's a great thing. Um and I'll end talking about my kid because I always do that right here. Um my daughter who is now 23 was much younger when
044I started attending board meetings and she thought they were boring meetings. Um so I talked to her this morning and I said I had my last boring meeting. So thank you against the attitude. [Applause] We'll move on to administrative snapshots early elementary. Good evening. Um, first I want to start by thanking um our music and art teachers at Portland Elementary School. So, Miss Latman and Mrs. McDonald um for all their hard work in preparing for our fourth annual night of the arts. We had lots of families we welcomed into the building to enjoy their students chorus and band performances as well as to enjoy student art that was displayed throughout the whole throughout the hallways. And I just made a comment the other day. They just took all the art down and it just looks
045so bare out in our front hallway. So we definitely enjoy seeing all the wonderful artwork displayed in our front hallways. Lots of exciting things happening at EES these last few weeks of school. Um we began our countdown last Friday when our seniors visited the elementary school for their one final walk out the hallways. Teachers and students love celebrating this milestone and welcoming the big kids into their classrooms. Today we celebrated our smallest learners, our prekers who are moving up to kindergarten next year. Um we had to, you know, transition our outside picnic inside, but we had lots of families join us and they still enjoyed their time celebrating their children. So it's wonderful to see. Our fifth grade unit has been busy. They've been up to a lot of things. They're doing their a drop
046experiments. They're preparing for their wax museum presentations and also constructing some bottle rocket rockets to launch in the back lawn. So that's exciting events that will happen. And then we're also having our PE funday. So thank you to Mr. Sour and Mrs. Sville for planning this fun day for our kids and for our staff as well. They enjoy taking part in all of those activities and have fun competing against the kids in especially in tugof-war. Um, and then also thank to all of our high school students who volunteered their time to come and help run those stations and we couldn't really do it without them. Just a few things, we have our kindergarten celebration coming up next Wednesday and our fifth grade moving up on the 26th. And lastly, this summer we're teaming up with
047the local libraries for our summer um reading challenge. So, uh, instead of running our own reading challenge, we're really encouraging families and students to join the local libraries and communicated out all the wonderful programs that our libraries have. And so hopefully that will encourage our students to take part in those activities and then really teaming up to celebrate when this the year begins all the students who joined and um, visited their local libraries. So information has been sent but also will be sent home shortly about that. Thank you. Thank you Facebook and [Music] first u kind of want to follow up u Mr. Shaw. Um, I know you already recognize him, but I would be remiss if I did not say how much he's added to our building middle school has been a really rather
048fresh air. He brings so much to the table. Uh, I can tell you that Megan and I are very close uh within and Rachel Harrison as all the counselors. So, we're very fortunate and blessed to be able to work with them. And I do want to congratulate Mr. because he's been a fantastic addition to us, our students. So, thank you. I also like to say thank you to Jess Gretchen and to Shannon Sam's not here, but our our fine arts second to none. I mean, their entire reception day in and day out um on the weekends. I'm not really allowed to admit this, but I put uh I shout it in like two Saturdays ago because you're going to set up for an art show. And I was like, "That's your time." She goes, "No,
049you got to get me in because I got to be ready." I'm like, "Okay." Uh, so I mean, that's the commitment that they had. And just saw a little bit tonight. Um, students sing. I thought, "Wow." Uh so I think you're just going to continually see our fine arts department go higher and higher and higher. So my compliments to them. Um it's time. Let's see. Started regions today. Uh we actually have to thank Steven Town uh fire department. They gave us on the 11th the firewall once again and we uh were able to facilitate our geography plan. So the students uh were able to concentrate but otherwise we didn't have to shut down the school like other schools did. They are a great friend to us uh they allow us to go in there to
050help us with the tables. I can't thank Stephen Ham fire enough and uh Miss Whitman is the one who always sets it up. So thank you so much for that. Today we began uh the reach exams with ELA. Why didn't they give you ELA first the whole time? I don't know but ELA and living environment. So tomorrow is going to be our heavy day. Um so tomorrow will be the most difficult. As you know, students walk through. We had the academic awards on the 11th. Um Rachel Tereski and Rachel Harrison did an amazing job choreographing it. I thought it was fantastic. Two hours and we thank the community, all the the donors and benefactors. Uh, we have so much and I'm always pushing Rachel Harrison. I said, "We got to get more. We got to
051get more." She goes, "This is the most we ever had." I said, "We still need more." So, uh, you know, it's it's so nice that our students getting recognized. And the students going to four-year colleges, the students who go right in the workforce, everybody's being recognized, you know. Sure. Everyone's getting recognized. Reputation, you know. No, but I I love the fact that it's not just what we consider students with the highest averages, it's all students. So, we're going to keep trying to do an effort on that and expand on it. Um, and then there's something going on 27th called graduation, which we're really excited about. We have the stage, we have the chairs. Um, it's going to be fantastic. I spoke with mother nature. She told me it's going to be a beautiful day. So
052we don't have to worry Kim about the being inside having enough tickets. We're gonna we're gonna be good. So uh we're really excited and car day deserves credit for that because she really works hard all year. So thank you Carrie for that. Um and then uh you know that we're just getting ready for the new school year. Any questions? Thank you. Um, athletics is very late right now. So, we're just preparing for the upcoming school later. Maybe we order this next time. Anyway, it's hard to believe that we're already in the closing days of the school year. And as students and teachers wind down for the year, we're in full swing over in the BPS office while we work to wrap up our current year, work with building principles and planning out next year, and
053finalizing our plans for our extended school year program. And in just a couple of short weeks, when most students and teachers leave for the summer, we'll have ESY in full swing. We'll still be planning for next year and we'll also be working on some projects to review a variety of different areas and data sources to uh identify some areas for improvement. And one such project is the NTSS audit chair board meeting with Sam Higgins some months ago. Uh over the course of this school year, we've got feedback from teachers, administrators, and other key individuals in the process. And our next major step is coming up as we look to pull our end of year data um and prior year data in order to perform a comprehensive analysis and some of those data sources with 10
054great state discipline data benchmark assessment data and so much more. And in the theme of the evening I'd also like to take a moment to recognize Sam Higgins who the board has just appointed into an expanded administrative role from her MTSS coordinator position. If we could just give her a round of applause in her new role. Will be hard at work this summer on that NTSR on that NTS transportation. Good evening everybody. Uh first we would like to say congratulations to those retiring this year and those who reached tenure this evening. We don't really have any specific updates in transportation, but as we near the end of the school year, we'd like to once again say farewell to Sherry and Andrea and thanking them for their dedication to the district, as well as welcome our
055two newest board members. We in transportation look forward to working with you for many years to come and thank you to the entire board of education um for your commitment to our district. We would also like to thank the administrator, the administrative staff for all their hard work and contributions to our district over the past year. Thank you to our teachers, our support staff, secretaries, and all those who work behind the scenes to make Berlin Berlin what it is. And a huge shout out to our transportation staff for a great year and for everything they do for our students. Thank you to Rick especially um for all of his expertise and dedication to our department and especially for everything he has done to help me in our department. Thank you Dr. Long for everything you've
056done and we wish you the best in your back into retirement. Thank you. Thank you friends. So, we're coming into the end of the school year. Um, finishing up a lot of activities and which will culminate with high school graduation next Friday evening on the 27th. Um, as we progress from there, we'll get into the cleaning of the schools for the summer and preparing for the new school year. Um very happy to say that New York State DOT replaced the cover out here at the end of the driveway um leading into the school property and did a wonderful job. Um as I reflect back on that, I'm sad about the fact that one of the individuals who was there actually was involved in an accident the following day and succumb to his injuries. And I'm
057very sorry for that. He was a very dedicated community servant. um to community who's it falls and uh we will be missing um with that they're going to start the paving project tomorrow night. They're going to come in and mill and hopefully weather permitting they'll be able to come back on Thursday and uh finish refilling with the new pavement. So that'll take away the potholes. Um we have a technician in the district right now that's working on the security alarm systems in the buildings and getting them updated. Um and we um we did the leadup and water testing um couple of weeks back got the results back from them and of the 55 or 60 samples that we took we had five that um generated above the limit. They've um they have actually lowered the
058limit from 15 parts per billion to um five. So it's um been lowered considerably. Um but again we we only have really one high threshold. We believe that with running the water some additional and resampling that we should be able to take care of that. Um and that's what we anticipate doing and then if we have to do remediation beyond that we'll deal with that when we get the next set of results. Um, we've had an electrician in the district and done some work in supporting the smart schools bond act and the installation of that equipment. So hopefully that'll occur over the summer. So we've got a busy time. Thank you all. Thank you sir. service. A couple weeks ago, I had the opportunity to meet with the elementary school ambassadors to talk about the
059school lunch program. Um, they did a fantastic job. They did pulled from other students. They gave me all of those results. They asked questions. Um I was able to see a lot of the other students answers. When I met the ambassadors, they wanted to ask me questions. So I I discussed different things with them. They wanted to tell me um what things they liked and what things they thought were yucky. So it was it was quite interesting to hear their their comments about that. But I want to thank Gretchen R and Tracy Peter for facilitating that meeting. Um, child nutrition has waved the assessment fee that they can charge on quantity food storage. Um, we've been lucky that the past several years we haven't been charged that fee. Um, the fee was covered by funds
060that were received from the USDA. Um, we are continuing to serve all students breakfast and lunch through the end of the school year, even on half days. Um, all students have the opportunity to eat their lunches if they want in school or some of them choose to take them home because it's a little bit too early for them. But even the region students have the opportunity to come in and have lunch um as well. Um, and as the end of the year is quickly approaching. I'm currently working on using up all our inventory. We're working on cleaning up all the kitchens and we are beginning to prepare for summer. Thank you. Thank you. Technology. Okay. Just a couple of dates. Chromebook collections uh started taking place for grades 9 through 12 on June 12th and
06113th. We currently have um two outstanding promos from last school year that we're still trying to recoup from and then this year we're missing several chargers and pro Wilson right now we're at a deficit of $6,400 but we will work to get that equipment back in districts for K through8 were asked to be returned to the district on June 16th. still remain in the district, but the students are still able to use it throughout the day until the end of day on June 23rd. That way, it doesn't impact any last minute projects teachers have or curriculum. And then the Chromebooks will be collected from the BES building and middle school on June 26 and brought back the elementary ones will be brought back here to the high school, but the uh the rest of the
062middle school ones will pick up here. Power meters at the main entrance of EES are currently not working. I do have a service called into Johnson to resolve the issue. They also have a work order to come on site to renew our secure system which is our access software and the license is expired in a few weeks. summer schools. We started preparing to get those devices together based on a tenative number of attendants and we're going to have a charge power washed updated and and just wait for the final numbers and the names of students to come in. Um Eric will be on site tomorrow to meet with me for on boarding and discovery as they call up to the systems and just roll out of things. This summer will be very busy. We have
063a lot of uh desktops and monitors to replace in the district offices as well as all the classroom computers will be replaced. Anything that can be upgraded to Windows 11 again will be upgraded. Anything that cannot be will be replaced or just not facilities committee facility committee met prior to the meeting Doug Atkins was here from CSR to speed what's going on the secret sign the forms that be submitted this week for state approval looks about two weeks. I'm hoping to have the project completed mid November this fall. That's on the 100K project. Uh Burl Elementary that is completed almost light installation. Yep. Other than that, next task will be to take prioritize the five-year plan. Um there's ticket items and we need to do a comp comprehensive review. So it's going to be a
064task. I believe Warren's got it trimmed down for us and that'll be turned over to new adventure. Enjoy that. Go ahead and speed up. Uh other business um would like to have once the regions have completed and the board get the scores for the summer so that we can review them for the regions test. That's all I have. Did the facilities committee discuss the oil tank situation? Yes, talked about it. We don't have any numbers and that's the next time. So, I'm not sure. We're looking at the inspection reports. I'm not sure about it. Um, so we may have to do a visit on site, look at it. Those tanks Yes, the u capital project was to replace the heating system both here high school and elementary um to take the 20,000gallon tank out service
065here and take that tank out of service there. So now we're at a point we have to reevaluate and it's a large down like this. Do we get numbers like discuss? So the one that we put out that got voted down were having problems with tanks. Yes. Uh is is that um if we I kind of recall some of the details that was going to be reimburseable. Is this uh selling is on vacation. So we have to crunch numbers to see how you can afford it because u there was a new tank that found out gallons that's underground has been discontinued. So you start digging or eating um you got yourself an adventure. It can be very costly. We have to get the numbers of what we've got to work with. I think do an
066on-site inspection. And part of this is um really have to sit down and evaluate where do we want to take the district to reduce the operating cost. We try to in that project because every year we don't reduce the operating cost. Um the board has the task of balancing the budget uh by reducing staff and done that for two years in a row and now we're at a point um to re-evaluate shortterm and long term where do we have to go with this. So it's going to be challenging and yes be under the gun. also under new business because I know it could have potentially had an impact on some of our programs here. I just received word new budget pass just just so the is aware. I did I was in contact with someone
067from our our dairy uncle who does the work for Steuart Shops. Had them come out at the beginning of last week to look at the fuel tank at elementary school. Um do an evaluation and then that's when we discovered the other tank. Um and so that person was supposed to put together pricing. I made him well aware of that we had our facilities committee meeting this evening um and asked that I please have it before tonight so that we could share that information with the facilities committee unfortunately I would be following up on that tomorrow find out where that pricing is that pricing is to include the existing dealing with the existing final fuel storage plant for the heat as as well as the abandoned underground fuel storage tank that exists there that needs to
068be either um abandon and place the appropriate way through New York State BC or it has to be removed and there's any contaminated soil that would have to be so yes could potentially be a substantial expense depending on the condition of that existing Soon as I have something more any additional new business opportunity for public comment. No public comment. Okay. So, we will have our reorganizational meeting Tuesday, July 1st. He has his first meeting. Um, and then our regular one will be scheduled for Tuesday, August 19th at this building. Both are at this building. I need a motion for an executive session related to personnel. A motion by Frank, a second, a second by Sherry 841. All in favor? I. Any opposed? Yeah, I don't think we will not be taking any action at the
069end. Thank you. [Music]