001usually go for. All right. I'd like to call the regular meeting of the Plymouth Board of Education to order at 6:00. Please rise for the pledge of allegiance. >> I pledge algiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. Okay. >> All right. I'd like to entertain a motion to adopt the agenda as presented. >> So moved. >> Second. >> Mr. Showers, Miss Palmer. Any discussion? All in favor? >> Any opposed? Any abstensions? Motion carries. Okay. Item number three. I'd like to entertain a motion to approve the minutes of the regular meeting of the Plymouth Board of Education of January 14th, 2026 as corrected. >> So move second. >> Mr. Showers, Mr. Foot. Any discussion?
002If none uh all in favor? >> I >> opposed. Abstensions. Okay. Motion carries and entertain a motion to approve the minutes of the special meeting of the Plymouth Board of Education of January 22nd, 2026 budget workshop number one for 2627. >> Second, >> Mr. Bourbanire, Mr. Showers. Any discussion on that one? All right. All in favor? Opposed abstensions >> Mr. Foot abstains. Motion carries. All right. Now, our favorite part of the night, student representatives Tiana and Fallen. Good evening. The 7th annual chili cookoff was a big success. The event brought the community together and helped to raise money to support students attending the Europe trip. There was plenty of great food, friendly competition, and school spirit throughout the day. Congratulations to Mr. Dmitri who took home the win with his standout chili. Our winter sports
003teams are wrapping up their seasons and celebrating their seniors. Girls basketball is celebrating on the 18th, boys basketball on the 20th, and wrestling is tonight. We would like to thank all seniors who committed their time and energy to bettering THF THS athletics throughout their high school years. Reporting in with some school spirit news. Our winter pep rally is happening this Friday and is shaping up to be a lively one. Classes will take part in color wars. Freshman in white, sophomores in red, juniors in pink, and seniors in black. So the hallways should look like a walking rainbow of competition. May the best class win. As always, the rally is timed with the Friday double header rivalry game at Thomas, a tradition we're proud to keep going strong. It's a great way to build excitement, boost
004morale, and bring the school community together. We're wishing both the girls and boys team the best of luck. Hopefully the pep rally energy travels with them onto the court. SAT strategy sessions will start on March 3rd and go for three weeks. Every Tuesday, juniors will have the opportunity to learn strategies for reading and writing sections on the SAT. Every Thursday, they will learn strategies for the math section. In previous years, students have reported feeling more prepared for the test after the month-long intensive. After this testing season, we will check in with our current juniors to ensure test prep still aligns with the topics on the test. The career center has many fun trips coming up. In the following weeks, they will be visiting CCSU for a campus tour. They will also be traveling to the
005Hartford Yard Goat Stadium. Here, students will have the opportunity to learn about sports management and all the different jobs they can have in the sports industry. 12 deserving juniors will be officially inducted into the National Honor Society on the 24th, including Tiana. The ceremony will include several speeches, including ones from the president and vice president. After the ceremony, students will be able to enjoy a light breakfast with their families. Congratulations to all new members. The Cherville High School variety show will take place on Friday, March 6th, and we are currently inviting students to participate as performers, hosts, musicians, comedians, dancers, magicians, poets, and other talents. The show is organized and run by Miss Abcoly and serves as the school fundraiser that was very successful last year, generating strong participation and support from the community. Key
006dates include the first rehearsal on February 24th, a second rehearsal on March 3rd, and a mandatory dress rehearsal on March 5th and the final performance on March 6th. For the past two years, student council has been going back and forth on how to bring more color to the walls of ths. Last month, we came to an agreement. We decided to create large digital posters that represent every club and sport CHS has to offer. Since that seems like quite a lot, we created a subcommittee to tackle our sports teams first. Together, the subcommittee made timeless posters to line the gym walls hallway. Yesterday, we received approval for them to be hung and mounted on the in frames. We cannot wait to have them printed and hung, and we're excited to put our club funds towards something
007whole school can enjoy. >> Thank you. >> We have any questions? Any questions for our Rex? >> I have a question. >> Yes. >> How many birds have we saved so far? >> Who knows? Countless. No birds. >> Countless birds. >> Yes. >> I'm glad you guys are taking that on with the artwork. Uh when I took over as the principal here, the building was about two years old, year and a half old. There was not one piece of artwork on any of the walls. And so we tried, but this is a great great initiative. So good job. >> Thank you. >> Absolutely. I just have one question. Chili cookoff. >> How long has that been going on? >> It's the seventh annual. >> Okay. So, seven years. >> Yes. >> It smelled good. >>
008I would definitely if the school is putting it on, I think you need to market it a little bit better. >> We will bring that to Mrs. Avali and her whole crew, >> you know, because uh chili cookoffs are very very popular. Very popular. And I think really if you get some advertisement that goes along with it and whoever I probably would say to assume is put an advertising committee together to uh to facilitate people in town and people in other towns that can come to a chili cook off. All right. And that'll help you guys to show whomever's on that advertising committee on what you need to do to advertise in order to bring things in. and somebody may turn around and like that type of career as you say what's going on with
009the career center and bringing people along. So that might be something that you may want to talk to Mrs. A College about. >> All right. >> Thank you. >> You're welcome. >> Anyone else for our student reps? >> I just want to say Tiana congratulations. You should be so proud of yourself. >> Thank you. >> All right. Well, ladies, as always, you are welcome to stay. You may go if you are have something else to have a great night. >> Thank you. >> All right. Item number five, public comment. We will start with in-person public comment. Please feel free to come to the podium, sign up on the sheet provided, tell us your name and address, and then let us know what you're thinking. I >> have two minutes. >> Okay. The boss says two
010minutes. Okay. Well, there's another chance later. So, if you want to talk later. Um, Mrs. Milo, any online public comment? >> No. Okay. Because that's cuz I remembered to ask. >> I know. Exactly. >> All right. Item number six, presentations. Mrs. Milo. So, I'll go up. >> So, good evening. I have some exciting news to share um tonight about our high school esports team, which is an organized competitive video game team that the CIA recognizes as a sanctioned high school sport. On December 12th, our high school esports team competed and won the CIAC state championship. So, they earned the state title, a championship plaque, and an invitation to comp compete in the um national tournament in May. So, this evening, we've invited our esports coach, Mr. Solars and our esports team to congratulate them on
011this tremendous accompl. >> Sounds like yes. come on up to the >> I mean, I'll keep it short, but we start the program four years ago and it was just some kids that were interested in coming together and play video games. So, they came to my room, we brought some TVs in and some donated equipment and there were probably like 20 25 kids in there and that was pretty cool. And so, kind of started asking around and and you started to realize that this is competitive. It's not just a club and it's unique. It's different. we're kind of meeting kids where they're at versus, you know, where it's just been tradition. And uh so we looked for opportunities. Iworked with a few different coaches in college ranks and they helped support uh reached out to
012to Mr. Holtz and he was very supportive and administrative was was so supportive. Tech was so supportive. Um and just getting it off the ground and the the first few few years were were rough. Uh this is our fourth year with the program or third year really being a an esport. And then uh you know we just start networking with the players and getting them together and and you kind of find out who's interested and we kind of bring them along. And I think one of the best stories is you know uh kind of identified through the the kids that that Marcus is a really good player. And I approached him. I'm like we'd really like you to join our esports team. And he's like I don't really know. I don't know if I'm really
013up for that. I said, "Can you well can you come in and kind of show us some things?" And he came to one of our practices and after a half an hour he's like, "I'm in. I'm in." And so it's been really been a really cool experience. And they've, you know, we added some more players. We've increased our team. We our hope is to to not just be focused on Rocket League, but we've we've added chess this spring. And we're looking to add more programming in the future. Um, we want to be a flagship program, and we really think we're on to something here. um community's been really supportive with with family and and fellow teachers uh and my my co-ach Nick Richie like couldn't do it without him and so it's just been a
014really cool experience and we just uh we're also excited for the spring season which kicks off on Thursday and uh and we're going to see what happens in nationals. So really looking forward to it. Really happy with it. So thank you. >> Congratulations. Congratulations. >> Congratulations. >> Um stay put for one minute because we're going to call for a recess to take a picture if you don't mind. >> Very good. >> Okay. So, with that being said, I would like to call a recess at >> Whoops. 61. >> 6:11. I forgot my phone, so I don't have a uh watch. 6:11 p.m. for pictures with the esports team. >> Okay. And then we have our next presentation, Mr. Felcomm. So, um, this fall at right after the election of the new board, uh, Nicole Corey
015approached me with regard to possibly bringing in the Boys and Girls Club um, to help support our our families with before and after school care. And so, myself, Rebecca, and Nicole went to the Boys and Girls Club in Bristol, and we were so impressed at their offerings, their presentation. And so, um, at this point in time, the communications committee has met and we asked if the Boys and Girls Club could come in and kind of talk about what they could offer our school community with regard to before and after care. Um, so we have them here this evening and Nicole, I don't know if you want to introduce all of our our guests. >> I get Yeah, sure. That's Barbara, that's Amanda, and that's Jay. So, I don't know who's doing the speaking, but if
016you want to head up to the podium for the microphone, that Yeah, that'd be great. And they'll have a clicker for you as well. >> I do have pronounce for everyone. >> You're welcome. >> Thank you. >> Just if you guys could do me a favor when you're done, just make sure you're all signed in so we have your names and everything back. >> It's right on there. It's right on there. You can't miss it. All right. Got it. >> Thank you. I appreciate it. >> No problem. >> Thank you. >> Of course. Thank you. >> Thank you. >> You're welcome. >> Thank you. >> Yes. So, good evening everyone. My name is Jay Maya, the chief executive officer for the Boys and Girls Club organization. Um, so first and foremost, I want to thank
017you all for your time. Uh, shout out to the young ladies. They did a great job because uh that's kind of like what we're all all about is our kids are our products. So uh I mean they they presented very well and the data was there. They're doing great stuff, the outcomes and the data, right? So we'll talk a little bit about that and and how impactful the things that we bring to the table. U so we'll get into a slideshow and then we'll open it up for questions. Is that okay? >> From the board. From the board. Yes. >> Yeah. So um our goal is see on the slideshow get it going in a minute. Um the goal is to provide resources, right? So resources with programs that uh that are quality programs that
018have staff that have been trained as youth development professionals, adult staff, adult supervisors. Um we we'll get into it, but there's some younger like teens that help out, but there's always an adult um with supervision that have to go through trainings through Boys and Girls Clubs of America. So So our goal is to come in and and um give a worldass experience for the kids. You know, safety and fun. Safety and fun. That's what we're all about. >> Next slide. Okay. >> So, who are we? Boys and Girls Club. We've been in exist existence for over a hundred years, right? So, we serve up to a thousand kids per day. We have 12 um different sites and 134 employees. So, a lot of those 12 sites, we'll get into it a little later in the
019presentation, but I just want to some some milestones uh for the group to to hear for us, some highlights, is uh we're one of the top 200 clubs in the nation. So, there's boy there's 5,000 boys and girls clubs worldwide, right? So, there's compliance, safety compliance, program compliance. There's a lot of criteria and you get evaluated and they critique you pretty hard and these two young ladies behind me have done an amazing job for years. So I want to make sure that I let you know that we're one of the top 200 clubs in the nation right now and continuous quality improvement. We're still trying to get better. So we're still trying to get better. We want to be the top 50. So we put action plans in place um to get there. But um
020again, it's the staff is key. Out of the 134ies, I have 14 leadership members. And these two young ladies are key. They've been in the movement. We call it the Boys and Girls Club movement for quite some time. And they've been performing at a high level. And they run the schoolbased programs. They run a tight ship. They run a tight ship. Really tight Next slide. Our mission, our core values is is our driving force. Um, I told you there's 5,000 over 5,000 clubs in the nation. We have we have we got spokes like spokespersons on the national level um who who represent the club too. Dental Washington is one of them. Uh we got a great board, a great president of Jim Clark. Um headquarters is based out of Atlanta. They provide us with a
021lot of curriculum and resources for trainings and that all happens on board during the on boarding process. We have a strong commitment to include um here's our take out. Whatever we do, we're working with kids. Everyone's included. Um it doesn't matter. Doesn't matter at all. Everyone's included. We always look at stuff as teachable moments. Conflict resolution teachable moments. They're kids, you know. This is what we do. This we have so much pride and passion. uh we've been doing it for so long and uh that's what you have to do. So every situation you got to look at things as a teachable moment for our kids. You know they're go they go through rough times. The world is changing like no other and you you got to be there for them and we use love and
022logic. We use love and love. So uh all of our programs there's three priority outcomes. So any program that we run is under this umbrella here on the slide. Right. So the academics, good citizenship and healthy lifestyle. So those are three priority outcomes. And we have a a formula we call it like a medicine. So I would say Brian, if you're going to run, it could be a basketball program. It could be homework help out. It could be a torch club which is uh at the schoolbased sites we run once a week a leadership club. Somebody's the president, vice president, they keep minutes. They do service learning in the community, right? Or right in the clubhouse. You dip this formula, this medicine into the program. No matter what we do, you make sure it's safe.
023Talk about how it's going to be safe. Examples on how it's going to be safe. Try to make sure it's fun. Expectations have to be there. And you have to listen to the kids and give them a sense of influence. That's what it's all about. That's part of our success. So, I'll get into our locations. We'll sip through this pretty quickly, but out of our 12 sites, our main site is located at 255 Western Street. So, that's where where it comes in that uh we want to be a part of the team. We want to be a part of the family. Um that this that facility is a 1 million project. Um it's a beautiful facility and we can serve middle school and high school kids um at this site as well as elementary school
024kids. So you you guys could um feel free to look through the slideshows at your own leisure. Um I won't get into this too much, but it it involves our teen center and also um you know non-school days, what we do on non-school days, the times that we're open, um some of the minimal costs, the summer programming, and our athletics, too. Uh we had a huge athletic program and we just don't serve kids in uh Bristol. We're uh we we have kids from, you know, from uh West Hartford, Avon, uh even here, Terry Terryville, Plymouth, um for gymnastics. So I I'll show you some of the different locations. Um we got kids from all over serving central Connecticut, um Plainville, um and a lot more. The Imagination Museum is one of our 12 sites. So
025once you're part of the team, you get an opportunity to uh you know to visit the museum museum. It's part of a membership. We have an early childhood education program within that building. It's NYAK accredited. Um if you guys know anything about being NIA accredited, you know the work and the admin work that goes into it. So we celebrate that every time we every time we like a it's like a championship. the team that you did a great job. It's like yes. So, uh we are Nyak accredited. Uh it's a beautiful building, great staff, and that's one of our uh awesome locations. Cambridge Park is another one of our 12 sites. We're pretty diverse and we're unique than other Boys and Girls Club because we have so many sites that were in different different, you
026know, different neighborhoods and stuff in in different areas. So, this one's in public housing. So, off of Jerome Avenue and Davis Drive, we serve over 400 kids a year right in public housing. There's 190 apartments and the staff really doing an amazing job. this our gymnastics program. Um, just some exciting news. We're at capacity. So, we're in the process of um purchasing a new facility that's triple the space. So, there's about 500 kids now that we serve um through our gymnastics program and our director of operations has been doing it for, you know, over over 20 years. Over 20 years. So, uh, you know, we're so this gives us an opportunity to expand and serve a lot more a lot more kids, which is amazing. >> So, this is where Jay gets to tap in
027and I get to talk about what I get to do every day. Um, we thought it was important just for the community to understand who we are as an organization. Um, what opportunities the youth have. Um, so that's FCG. uh if you live in Terville Clinic, you can also go to the preschool at Imagination. Um what we're here for today even more um is to talk about our school-based programs. So Barbara and I oversee eight um school-based locations currently. Seven are in Bristol and one is in Burlington. Um there we are a statelicicensed facility. Um, so we do have our inspections and regulations that we have to follow, qualifications that the staff have to obtain. Um, thank you. Um, so our programs operate in the schools and we start as early as 6:30 in the
028morning and we're there until school starts and we dismiss the kids off to um, morning recess or their teachers um, whatever the school prefers for dismissal. Um, and then at the end of the school day, we are there until 6 PM. We operate Monday through Friday. If school's in session, we are there. Um, with that, the kids that are with us do receive a morning snack and an afternoon snack as well as programs and activities. Uh, we do homework help as Jay had mentioned. Um and we run boys and girls club recognized programs as well as um additional programs, arts, recreations, outdoor activities. Um really keeping the kids engaged that they don't even notice that you know 3 hours after school just passed while mom and dad or any other guardian is currently working. Um
029our staffing I think is what makes us really unique and a great team. Um behind us we have a strong leadership team and board of directors as well as um our youth development professionals um and our headteer who run each individual site. So uh with that our staff each location that we have has a what we call a clubhouse director or headteer. So they do have their headteer certificate and then each location has a um program assistant. Um every program assistant number two they also have their headteer certificate um and they are 18 plus. Uh any additional support staff could have any educational and and and background. Um we do um have the staff our background check and the onboarding includes uh DCF mandated reporter training, boys and girls club training and uh training through
030office of early childhood. They do have a um minimum hours that they have to complete of continuing education every year. Uh staff are also med certified, first aid, CPR, AUD, medication administration and EPU administration. Um the number of staff depend on the ratio. OEC ratio is 1 to 15. So each location would depend on the enrollment that we would have. Um tuition, we are a fee for service program. So our tuition runs from $90 a week up to $150 a week. Um, with that, we understand that um, financials can sometimes be difficult. Um, so we do offer care for kids, which is financial assistance through the state of Connecticut. Um, I also process the care for kids documents and we help families through the process of applying um, their annual redeterminations that they have to
031complete as well as parent provider agreement forms that get sent in. a little bit of work right here. >> A little bit of work, a little a little bit of going back and forth with the state. Um uh but it it significantly helps families that need help um to pay for child care services. Um so what are we doing here today? It's how we can provide um resources and support to your community. Um whether that is before and after school programming to planet center school or for your Harry Fisher Elementary School. Um, also collaboration uh to provide transportation for youth to be able to go to the Boys and Girls Club, whether that's from your middle school or from your high school. And parents would pick up from the main club um on their way
032home from work or just when when their activities are done. um as well as marketing programs to teens um for teen nights, keystone club, open gym, all the sort of activities that we have after school for youth to be able to participate um be engaged in scout trail um as well as career development and all of that that the teen center and the club has to offer. So, we hope that uh you are interested in bringing the boys and girls up into your community so that we can support. Uh we'll take questions now, but we also left our contact information. You are welcome to call or email or anything if you have questions um or someone from the community have questions. I I thought there was a point that you made when we met the
033last time about like snow days if we have an early dismissal and or um a day where school might not be in session but you're still open. Could you just elaborate a little to talk about that? So on the slide where it says main club um non-school days that is something that we have to um barber backtracking here. Um we offer care on on school days such as um like President's Day here. Monday there's no school. Uh Bristol has no school Monday and Tuesday. And I think you guys are you all week? >> All week. Okay. Um so we provide services based on the board of ed um calendar. So if parents are working and they're where what am I going to do with my kid for the week? Um they are able to sign
034their children up for the activities. Right now we focus on um the Bristol calendar um the Bristol school calendar um but opportunities for if your schedule is different and there's enrollment numbers we do have the opportunity and capacity to do that. The club is quiet during the day while the kids are in school. So being able to provide services for families um on those days we do open up at 6:30 in the morning and we go until 6 o'clock at night. Typically those days um for all daycare runs about $60 per day. Um we also offer summer programming uh that is open for 7 to 8 weeks depending on when the last day of school falls and all the snow days that we have. Um and our summer hours are from 7:30 in the morning
035until 5:30 in the evening. Um school dismissal. So let's say it is a half day of school or an early release, we are still providing the services after school for families. I know sometimes those calls are made during the day and then families are scrambling if families know, you know, I'm I'm signed up for Boys and Girls Club, my child will go there after school. We do um if it's inclement weather and schools getting dismissed, we do typically close at four o'clock instead of six o'clock due uh to the safety and and and conditions outside. Um but if it's a half day, we are open for that full time. Um whatever dismissal is, let's say it's 1:00, we're there from 1:00 until um our closing at six o'clock. >> Does that cover item? Yeah, I
036think we got Y. >> Yep. >> Any questions? >> So, to clarify on that right now, like because that's I know that Bristol and Plymouth have extremely different school calendars. So would there be accommodations made for the students or would that depend on like a certain number would need to sign up or parents would be like to their own devices and when would they be notified of like if enough people signed up. So you know just to give people time to child care arrangements are very stressful. I finished my last year after 18 years last year and I'm grateful not to have to deal with that. But that's a stress if you don't know until like a week ahead of time if enough kids signed up for you guys to open with the different schedules.
037>> Yeah. So we would follow your schedule. I did look at um your schedule that you guys have for currently for this year and for the next year and there are some holidays that are similar. Um and then there are some like PB days and stuff that is not. Um that is definitely something that we could um provide services for as long as we have large enough enrollment. Um Barbara and I operate in advance so we're we're not last minute. Um so we would be having signups. Um our policy is that a parent has to sign up um or drop for the care uh two weeks in at least two weeks in advance. So, by the two week mark, like we know 100% how many kids we're going to have, how many staff that we
038need to have on during that day. Um, we we are located in Bristol and I had mentioned that one site in Burlington. They operate at a different schedule um than the Bristol schools does too. So, we um accommodate. We were running non-school days for Burlington families. Um at some point ended up that it there wasn't enough enrollment. there was like three kids that were signed up because they would go grandma grandpa's you know with friends or whatever it might be. Um so in that case we had said well at this time we cannot provide um those services but it was only because on certain holidays there was like the three that were signed up and it wasn't also super exciting for them. Um, but you get 10 12 kids that are signed up, you could
039definitely run a full day from 6:30 to 6 program for them. >> How often do your rates change? Is it a yearly increase? Has it been this way for >> every every so often? Um, I wouldn't say a yearly increase. uh I think it was four years ago now that we had increased last and that was because state of Connecticut was increasing all of their minimum wages. Um but we have not increase. >> Yeah. And I can tell you now that's part of my call. I'm not looking because that the reason why we even charge this amount is because that program I talked to you about Cambridge Park is extremely low income over 400 kids and they pay $5 a year. So Barbara and Amanda's program covers the weight and helps bridges the gap to
040serve some of those kids that need us the most for public housing. and the um summer camp, would that be held at our schools or would they have to go to Bristol for that? >> So, our programs right now um we have them at the main Boys and Girls Club. Between our ratios um we have field trips. We go on field trips um one big field trip a week and then we do this past year we did two separate swimming days. Um so between the transportation, the staffing, the ratios that we have to maintain, um we get lunch services for for the kids um and special events that are running to you. Um that is all housed at the main club at 255 West Street. >> And do you know what the cost is a
041week for the summer school or the summer um program? >> Yep. It is uh 250 a week. the week of 4th of July uh this upcoming summer is 200 because we are closed that Friday in observance of uh Independence Day. And and one of the things I just want to clarify when we're talking now we're talking about really before and after school the only time the Boys and Girls Club is coming here is for our before and after school programs really at at Plymouth Center in Fiser because even the middle school would be going to your club after and the high school would be going to your club if they needed after school or off day support. Um and any programs you would normally run such as your summer programs they're just running them as
042usual. So there's no change there. >> Yes. And at this time too, um we accept anyone in our summer programs. You don't have to be a Bristol resident. So Terryville, Plymouth, Planeville, Sington, all everyone has the opportunity to go to um the summer program as well. >> Does that also apply for the middle school students or they would have to join the Boys and Girls Club or live in Bristol for the middle and high school students to be able to go to the >> activities? outside of Bristol members that you know get dropped off and transportation to the teen center different athletics. >> And one of the things we talked about with the middle school and high school students that was that was really fascinating was the actual price point for the kids to go
043there and what it would cost a year for a family. Could you guys cover that real quick? >> Of course. The membership for the middle school program is currently $150 for the year. Um, so membership starts in August and it runs until June. Uh, because then we transition to our summer for the teens and it is a discounted membership fee of $50 for that same year. >> So that includes programs such as robotics. We got beautiful teen center. A lot of stuff is donated by ESPN. We have a great relationship with them. That's the teen center. Have a lot of different activities. We got a photography club, a journalist club. Um, so listening to those young ladies, I'm like, "Oh, thank you." And there's a lot of benefits for the teens and middle school, too.
044I mean, recognition is part of those five key elements of positive youth development that we talked about. So, you got to recognize the kid. We like to celebrate small wins, big wins, you know. So, a lot of incentives >> and those that middle school and the teen membership that's not just necessarily about an after school or before school that's they're getting the full Boys and Girls Club membership experience. They have full access. >> And then just one more question and I forgot the answer to this. I truly did. If you have siblings for our inschool programs for before and after, is there a discount for siblings? >> Yes. So we currently offer a 5% discount for siblings as well as um any military families. We provide 5% discount as well. >> My question is is
045how soon would you be looking to bring this program in? Are you looking to bring it in yesterday or are you looking to bring it in the first of the school year, which would be more than likely end of August, beginning of September of 2026? >> That's a great question. So, we um had talked about doing like a needs assessment to see where the needs are in the community is before and after school um programs needed. Um because we are licensed through the state of Connecticut, we have hoops to jump through, applications to fill out, we have to have uh local um health and fire inspections that we have to have conducted. Um office of early childhood would have to come in and also do the inspections. uh we would have to have our designated
046head teachers um hired and we have to conduct all the interviews to bring in additional staff um to either fill in at our other programs as we bring seasoned staff in or however that staffing might look. So to answer your question, we would be um looking for the start of the school year, but because of all that leg work, we would have to start it prior. We talked about a date where we would have to inform them if if we're interested in that partnership, but we also spoke about some sort of a kind of a a forum to have a discussion and so people could have interactive questions and answers with regard to your program, not just us as the board. Uh so we talked about scheduling something like that. That was through communications. And
047so I don't know where you landed on that if you >> we had three dates that we had to see if everybody if it worked and then we're going to decide on that. >> Okay. >> So So more to come on that if the board's interested in moving forward we can hold that forum and then from there just gather more information um and and hear from >> who this might impact as well. Um the the numbers in looking at that would you be looking for a specific commitment of like a certain amount of students would need to participate and if say a lot of people sign up at first and that changes at what point would you pull out because we wouldn't be able to staff for such you know what I mean like what
048level of commitment and then you said an interest survey like how would you be taking some initi in that to like reach out to the community so we we can all get an idea of like who would be interested who who would say they're interested but then when the time came wouldn't actually sign you know what I mean for a minute but just just to comment on that um pulling out but pulling out is the last option >> right >> so we I mean we do our own marketing too okay >> build team and cultivate relationships in house. So when you do that, that's where you get the engagement with the parents and the kids and make it fun. So >> yeah, so ideally we would want around 15 to 20 like at a minimum.
049Um, however, I will share a story with you real quick. We did have that happen at Chip and Hillil Middle School. So we had the opportunity um to open up a program. We ran with it. We had that program run for two years. um same day. Everyone was so interested in the beginning and then sports are happening and then parents also felt more comfortable. Okay, my child's in sixth grade and I could let them stay home. Um so you'd notice in like November, December after they had started the middle school. Um and we had to >> we were down to two kids and we still finished out the school year. Um and then when we did another assessment, we had said um okay, obviously the need isn't there. Um, but if we make a commitment
050for a school year, we're gonna hold into that commitment. Um, Jay's here to co-sign that. Um, I I do just want to add one thing. You were asking how soon are you available to start? That would be for the school age program for the before and after school. Um, if your middle school students or high school students were interested in attending the club, they could start immediately as long as they have their own transportation over to the Boys and Girls Club. >> The sooner you guys decide if it's a yes, then the better because then we can get involved. >> Okay, one more question. What area of the buildings would you guys need to be using? >> Yeah, that's a great question. So, typically where we are right now, we are in cafeterias. uh gyms.
051Uh we had one school that um had dedicated an entire classroom because they had the space in the school. Um so they had dedicated an entire classroom to us. We need to have space that we can have cabinets um a filing cabinet for emergency contacts. Um our O documents that have to be in there. Um we have to have a refrigerator for snack that we're providing. So a space where we can have a plug for that refrigerator. Um so typically those are like the ideal spaces is a cafeteria if there is a classroom in the in what one of those schools. Um that would be ideal as well. We will make it work with whatever is available. And we have one school right now where every so often you know we're licensed we will license
052for whatever rooms are available. Um, so if you say like the library in the event that there's a meeting in the cafeteria, we got to shift everyone. Um, our staff are extremely flexible. We have that happen in our school. You know, they're setting up snack and homework and I'm getting everything ready for the day. The principal walks in and says, "Actually, I need this space." And then we're shifting and we're moving. Um, we also use a um online management system um called Proare. So everything is online. Parents are able to register online. The greatest part of that is communication. Um, so we are able to text out to the families and it could do a blast to them. So if we do have to move locations like we're in we're in the back gym today.
053Can you guys pick up through that back door? Um, then we are doing that. With us being state licensed, we're IDing families. Only those that are authorized pickups can pick up the kids. Anyone else shows up, they cannot pick up the children unless we have prior communications with the guardians. I don't have any questions, but I just want to make a comment. The reason I don't have any questions is because both of my children were involved in Boys and Girls Club when they were very young and um they went to St. Anthony school and had gym class with you, Mr. Maya, at one point >> and they went to the to Boys and Girls Club to have gym class >> and as they got older, they were involved in sports and things like that. And
054also, I work I'm a teacher at one of your school sites and I can't say enough about how wonderful >> uh Stafford. So, Kelly Green, >> she's amazing. But, um, yeah, so this is all not, you know, new news to me, but, uh, just wanted to say that I've seen it in action and it it really is quite wonderful. So, >> appreciate your time. >> Yes. >> Brought me back great memories. >> Yeah. And your bu the building is the the site is amazing, too. It's gorgeous building and, you know, the basketball courts and the teen centers and everything. It's really really nice. >> Got an arcade. I want to go hang out here. >> And we do walkroughs and tours. So if anyone is interested or you have our contact information and we're more
055than happy. >> Yeah, we could do a site visit as well. Um Stafford is is Kelly is amazing. Kelly has been in the movement for over 30 years. Um, she is one of our highest performing staff on our team >> for being in the movement for 30 years and always coming up with new ideas. Like she's not still. >> We usually walk into the office and she's got some craft or something the kids do. We're like, what did she do now? >> Wow. >> That says a lot. You've been there for a long time. Thank you very much. Appreciate it. >> Appreciate it. >> So, well, we Yeah, I'll take them and then we'll we'll hand them out and then we'll be in touch with regard to that forum and we'll go from there. >>
056Alumni association. >> Oh, yeah. >> Thank you very much. We appreciate it. >> Uh just my comment to you guys. Great presentation. >> Thank you. I know uh many years ago uh Mayor Merchant had talked to Mike Chopar who used to be the director and was looking to bring in the Boys and Girls Club into town, but unfortunately uh I have no idea where that went. Um u but I know at some point in time the the former mayor Merchant was looking to bring the Boys and Girls Club into town. So but unfortunately it didn't come to fruition. So now you guys are back again. So we didn't forget about you. Thank you. >> Appreciate your time. >> Appreciate it. Have a great night. >> You too. >> You are. >> And I'm handing things
057off. >> I can do that. >> Thank you. >> All right. We are moving on to item number seven. UN uh superintendence update. >> Yeah. Um good evening everyone. So, the area cooperative educational services or ACES, which is the RESK down in Hampton, we work through uh Edvance up in Lichfield, but the the RESK Down in Hampton has invited the Plymouth Public Schools to participate in an amazing interd district arts integration grant. It's a lot to say in the 2026 2027 school year. This grant would take 25 of our fifth and sixth grade students and two teachers and it would send them on three field trips. The first one would go to the Yale Peabody Museum. The second would go to the Connecticut Children's Museum and the third one would be the Lost in New
058Haven experience. Um, these trips are designed to bring together students from urban and suburban districts and also to offer our students the opportunity to see and experience art outside of our community. There is absolutely no cost to parents. There's absolutely no cost to the district. Uh, the grant completely covers the three field trips, the transportation, the food that the kids will eat that day, and any additional staffing costs. they cover everything. Um, and so reading through the grant, I did sign off on that grant. So, we will receive that for the 2026 2027 school year. It's a great opportunity for us. >> Um, with the somewhat with the somewhat warmer weather out there, we're having some snow melt. Uh, and we're experiencing issues on two of our roofs. our Plymouth center roof. Uh in the
059front section, we have ceiling tiles that are becoming saturated and they're falling to the ground. And at Fiser, we have ice dams um and and water leaking in right near the cafeteria. Both of these roofs are on our capital improvement plan. They've been on there for a while. Um, and in your board packet, I put an article about Torington and how they pushed off the renovations on their roof projects for a while and now how much more it's going to cost them to complete the same project and just kicking that can down the road. So, I provided you that article. Uh, as you know, last week I sent a letter and I I copied all of you to the board of finance, the town council, and the capital improvements committee. The purpose of the letter
060was to clarify two important points. First, while the board of education is responsible for the daily operations and routine maintenance of our buildings, major capital improvements and re renovations require town authorization, local funding, and they have to be included in the town capital improvement plan. Our school district does not have the budget capacity or the legal financial structure. So, it's not possible for us to take on projects such as roofs independently from the town. This is a major capital improvement um uh piece that needs to be put into the town budget to resolve. That was the first point of clarification that we don't have the structure to do it. The second piece of clarifying news dealt with confusion over the state reimburseable school construction grants for projects such as a roof. Per the state statute,
061local funding must be in place prior to sub for prior to us submitting a school construction grant application. So you see schools getting 70% back on their roofs and whatnot. In order to do that, the town has to one, accept and approve the project to be done. Two, they need to secure the funds for the project through a referendum. After both of those things are done, we could then complete the state reimburseable school construction applications. So I sent this to all the parties involved because I want to make sure that as we move forward, accurate messaging is and and discussions happen at those meetings for any future capital projects that the schools have to take on that this is not the school's responsibility because we don't have the structure to complete those projects. So that
062was my letter that I sent out to those three organizations. I also wanted to share with the board something that we do not control that has a negative impact on every school district's budget. Governor Ned Lamont proposed a budget that flat funds education cost sharing grant. It flat funds the amount we have this year. The $9,82,121 of education core share sharing funding is for the upcoming year is the same exact number we're going to get. Additionally, he proposed to eliminate $12 million in magnet school funding. Well, what that does is that we in our budget will have to adjust to deal with the magnet school tuition increases based on the cut that he made. So, both of these actions move more of the public education responsibilities and costs to the taxpayer without reducing any of
063the mandates or obligations placed on the school districts. Beth is going to hand out the list of the various mandates that have been put on us up till October 2025. It is 60 pages long. And out of those 60 pages, most if not all the mandates are unfunded. So between unfunded mandates and flat funding from the state of Connecticut, it's virtually impossible for schools to keep up with the cost of living and the contractual obligations that we have. And so that's something across the state of Connecticut that we're dealing with that we cannot control. And finally, I wanted to give the board an update on the three items that you requested from me. You asked that I meet reach out to the mayor on three different topics. The first topic was presenting our budget. Oh,
064yeah. Absolutely. Presenting our budget um to the board of finance and town council at the same time in a tri board meeting. Uh the mayor has gotten back to me. He feels that it's the responsibility of the board of finance to present their final budget recommendation at that tri board meeting and the one trio meeting that we hold. So he was not in favor of having us present to the tri board, but he was definitely open to us presenting our budget to the town council prior to the tri board meeting kind of separately um so we can advocate for our proposals to the town council. So it would be two separate meetings and presenting to both but he didn't feel one meeting was tough. I think a lot deals with the logistics of putting together
065a tri board meeting and all the rules you have to follow. So it's easier in talking with the mayor to do the the meeting separate and the presentation separate. So I thought that was fair. The second thing you asked me to look into was the quarterly meetings with the board of finance and town council. So with that we have the same kind of concern with with quorums. So instead of quarterly meetings as entire boards, the mayor recommended that we create an advisory group consisting of board chairs and or delegates or or uh designates, I'm sorry, the mayor, the town council liaison who has joined us this evening. So thank you. Uh the town finance director, Matt and myself. so we could sit down and we can have open lines of communication and we could discuss
066any concerns or confusion with regard to the budget. I thought that was a really good idea and suggestion on his part as well. Uh and the final thing you asked me to look into were the school building safety uh issues and collaborating with the town. The mayor is requesting a little more information from me with regard to that and what it could look like and he wants to sit down and have a conversation. And so him and I are going to sit between now and our next meeting and just kind of talk about some ideas that have been put on the table in the past. So we really I don't have an update on that, but we do have a meeting that we're going to schedule between now and our next board meeting. So that's
067all I really have for this evening. I don't know if you have any questions on the information that I shared. >> Are we in danger of getting mold in the buildings with the leaking roofs? >> Uh well, the tiles are down now. Um, and so we have probably buckets. Um, I know at Fiser the tiles weren't up already. >> Yeah, the tiles were when we walked at Fischer the tiles were already down. They've actually been down because that that leak in particular has been consistent for quite a while now. So, it didn't make sense to keep putting tiles up so that I can keep taking them down. >> Is there electrical wiring up there that could be getting damaged from this water? like HVAC systems that are rusting that were like creating other extra bigger
068problems. >> So it's it's water. So I can't answer the question because water has its own, right? Has its own mind. >> But there is >> when we were at Fisher when you looked up there's not electrical there. I mean there's there are lights there but not exactly in that particular spot but as you know water is you know it's kind of its own animal. It finds its way around. So, um, >> just ask you, Itari. >> Yeah. >> So, and these are right, but the locations that Brian is talking about are the ones that we've been concerned about for a while. >> And while we're while we're talking about this, this is a little off of of my report, but I know Matt's going to speak about this in a little bit. You know,
069those are two items that are on our capital improvement list of those two roofs. But we also have something else that's on our capital improvements list for a while and now we're at the point where we have to take action at some point. Do you want to talk about that now or do you want to do it on >> I was going to talk about it? >> It's up to you. It's like it feels like it fits better now. >> I have a quick question about the roofs. >> Yes. >> Is it ice dam like is it the ice dams that's causing the flooding in those two buildings right now or is it the failure of the roofs? So, right that that question could go either way. The at Plymouth Center because of the the
070snow melt, there's water that's on the roofs. It's not I I can't tell you that it's caused by ice dams or, you know, people use the term ice dam, but an ice dam on a flat roof is a hard thing to actually argue because an ice dam is on a slope roof and because the water's backing up. This is just because it doesn't have anywhere to go. Um, but when we get really heavy rains, we get the leaks here as well. So, I'm under the >> uh my opinion is that it's part of the the roof that needs to be to be done. >> And then at Plymouth at at Fiser, it's in a loca the location that we were specifically talking about, Jerry was there during the during the walkthrough. Um is in a
071corner that our facilities folks have and we've had and we've also had contractors that have patched numerous times and it just keeps coming. it just finds the next way to get to there. Um, and now we have an additional um, leak down at the other end of the building where it comes in and it comes down the side of a wall. So, and it's the it's it's the roof portion that we've been talking about on the oldest section of the building. >> But the last part that Matt referenced where it's coming down and and coming in, that's through a crack in in the cement. So, we're going to have that repaired in the spring. We can't do it now. Um, but that from what the maintenance uh director Jim Maison told me that was from
072an ice dam from the sloped roof that was coming down and just finding its way in. So that's not the roof that last one, but the others are. >> Are is ice dam damage covered under insurance? >> I don't I don't know, but I don't I don't believe so, but I don't know. >> What's our deductible? >> 5,000. >> I don't know. I don't know about that. Would that be something to look into? >> Absolutely. >> Uh just a comment just so everybody knows, part of the roof that's leaking at Fiser is the original roof and that's 60 years old. I don't know what the life expectancy of that roof when they first put it in, >> but I think we've gotten a huge bang for our buck if that roof is the original roof.
073and it is 60 years old. >> Yeah. >> At some point in time, and I really don't want to get into it, but something needs to be done, you know, and how that gets done, I don't have an answer for you. >> Matt, if you could get the original roofer back, because if we could get another 60 years on the next one, maybe warrant. >> Maybe it's a warranty issue. He might not be around, but >> but there is. I mean, do you want to cover it in your report or it's up to you? >> No. So, um, I'll just eliminate it from what I talk about in in my report, but what Brian's, um, referencing are the heat pumps that are at Fiser, right? There's 18 of them. They're on our capital list. Um,
074they are the original to the addition going in. So, they're from 1972 or three somewhere in there. Um, we've been we've been having been been fixing when we can fix, but we now have two that are completely failed. They cannot be fixed. So, they affect a classroom and half of the music room. Um, the rooms have heat through the auxiliary heat, but it's not it's not enough to make the room what I would consider comfortable, right? So, it's low it's low 60s in there. >> Um, it still falls above the state requirement. So, we're legal, but the heat issue needs to be addressed. Jim Maison has um quotes coming to us. We were told they were out, I think on Monday. We should have them next week. Um and the issue is when we got
075the quotes, I'm going to say two two and a half years ago, they were $20,000 per heat pump replacement. Those are the that's the number that I've been giving you. Um we fully expect that that's going to be higher now. Um, right. We're we're two or three years out. We have based on where they're made, we may have additional fees on there for tariffs and so forth that we have to that we have to accommodate. Um, and obviously labor costs are up. Regardless, we there's not a choice is we need to we need to have them either fixed, replaced, or we can't fix them. So, it's replaced or we need another option. the quotes we're getting are for full-blown replacement for the two or um other the the mini split option and that was recommended
076by the contractor we had out. He said I'm going to give you both options. Um so we'll see what those numbers look like. So now we get down to the finance part is how are we going to do this? Um I don't know what the number is yet, but I have already reached out to our facilities contractor AS. They are willing to work with us. We do have some money built into the contract with them. I don't know if it's enough to cover this repair, but they're willing to work with us in a couple of different ways if necessary. Um, so that was a very positive conversation. Um I also um have information on the state's new district repair and improvement project program which allocates money to the um to districts across the state and
077I think Brian if I'm not mistaken right now it's we're allocated today $98,577 which is great. >> Yes. originally get the money. >> Well, originally it was more than >> was 151. In August it was 151. Today it's down to 98 and it's great. And this is what I spent most of today, yesterday and today on. So in order to figure out how to do it, I have to go through public act 251 174 >> 200 something pages. So I found it. I got it. doesn't tell me how to apply for the money. >> So I reached out to the department to the um OPM and they said refer to section 131 of public act 25174. So I went back to that and I summarized what it says. It appears to me, and I'm waiting
078for confirmation from the state because I sent them an email saying, "Please verify that my interpretation is correct, is that in March, Brian's going to get an email saying this much money is allocated to Plymouth Public Schools." He has to certify yes, I accept. Basically, I haven't seen how all that works because they're still figuring it out is the bottom line. And then on or about June 30th, they'll transfer that amount of money to us. At which point if you guys have approved a project, we can start paying against it, complete the project, and then in the in September of 2027, I have to upload all of your approvals, the project scope, all of the re all of the invoicing, and the completion certificate. But it's it's really disjointed. But if I get the money,
079we're taking the Well, obviously we're going to take the money and we're going to move forward. >> This is what on Monday night you said you didn't know how to apply for. That's the same thing, correct? >> Same thing that I Yep. So, I left that meeting. So, yesterday and today I'm plowing through this amongst all the other things and I still don't know how to apply for it, but it appears that there's not >> an application so to so to speak. >> But I reached out to some of my colleagues. They're all equally as confused as I am, but everybody's looking to figure out how to get the money. >> And then when we talk about the project for the board to approve, it really we would be coming to you with those heat
080pumps because >> we can't I mean, >> so the last option is is if I can't get it through HS and I'm not going to have this money yet is I would what I would do is come to you here and say we need to allocate x amount of dollars to get this project done. Um, and my my initial thought is we allocate that money from the 2% non-lapsing or syncing fund and then if we get this, we can allocate it back, right? We can push it back over. Um, so that but that's or we just keep going with with the the the replacements. Um, but that's a that's a really project scope piece. Right now, I'm really just concerned with I need to get these two taken care of so we have heat in
081these classrooms. So, >> and these 18 heat pumps are something that are on our capital improvements list. Correct. >> Correct. >> Yes. They're on there. It's at this point in time two years. Two years ago was costing $360,000. You have to understand that that's two years ago. I probably safe to assume looking at um inflation and depending on where these heat pumps are made and what type of tariffs that might be incurred because they could be assembled in the United States but they come from foreign parts from different countries. Uh so the tariffs could add money to it. I would probably safe to assume, trying to do a little bit of math myself, is that you're looking somewhere between 360 and $450,000 to replace those heat pumps. The other thing that you have to understand
082is, and what you have to realize is that those heat pumps are from 1972. The technology now that goes into heat pumps a lot better than the technology in 1972 with those heat pumps. If we were to put brand new heat pumps in with the technology that we have now, how much money are we going to save in electrical costs? >> And it is a noticeable heat difference when you walk from one end of Fiser to the other. I mean, the kids even know to bring extra layers when they have specials and stuff like that that are in that end of the building. >> Okay. But those are things that we as the board need to start understanding that is that Yes. They're from 1972 or 1973. But the technology that's coming through now with
083heat pumps. And not only that, the thing is is instead of getting I don't know what type of heat pump it is, but we could get a commercial or an industrial size heat pump that would be even more efficient than the heat pump that you have in your own home. Okay? Through a mini split. So those are things that you have to look at. And also I had a conversation with Matt prior to the meeting. You need to explain to when you tried to get back to the state what kind of information you got from the individual when you tried to call her and didn't she tell you that she was going to be out of the office until the 17th? >> Yeah, I got an auto out of I 10 minutes between my initial
084contact with her and then a follow-up question and I got an out of office reply until the 17th. And it's okay like we'll work through this. it right. We need to take care of the immediate problem and I'm not I'm not worried about that. We'll get that done. The the longer the larger problem now is really looking at this project from the perspective of is what are our true options? Because in addition to technology changing because it's changed perhaps we don't need 18, maybe we only need 10 >> because now they're more efficient and they can do a better. So those are the questions that Jim is now trying to research for us so that we have options. But the heat pumps are an issue. >> That's all I have. >> Just shortened up my
085report for later. >> There you go. >> Good. >> All right, let's move on to item number eight. Unfinished business. >> Well, we spoke about um our five-year strategic plan. It's in draft form, still we've never adopted it. And then at our budget workshop, we talked about let's finish our budget first and then uh possibly revise and then adopt. It just made more sense based on timing and circumstance. And so that that's off. >> So we had we have to put it we talked about it at the last meeting approving it. So we have to put it on the agenda. >> All right. So I'd like to entertain a motion to table the Plymouth Board of Education 5-year strategic plan until after the budget. So >> moved. M Palmer. and Mrs. Tilton. >> Any discussions
086on that? >> Okay. All in favor? >> Opposed? Abstensions? Motion carries. All right. Now, we are on to new business, adoption of our budget for next year. So, there's a few things that I >> some changes and adjustments that you guys have made uh additions to my recommended recommended budget. So, we're going to go over the adjustments and changes. But, additionally, there is an error that Matt and I found within the budget, and we waited till tonight to share that with the board. We waited to do this in an open public meeting on camera >> um when everyone was expecting a meeting because we wanted to be transparent um in our message. We didn't want to hold a special meeting with regard to a budget workshop again and no one show up. We wanted this
087to be during a regular meeting. So, we did find a mistake. It's an honest mistake in the budget. So, how I'm going to break this uh presentation down is first I'm going to take care of the the error or the mistake and then we're going to go into the adjustments that the board asked to be put into the budget. So, this is the mistake that we found. We only found this mistake after we started inputting uh the changes that the board requested. And it's it's a very honest mistake that was made in carrying a number over. We carried the 2024 districtwide budget line item over instead of the 2025 2026. Unfortunately, that led to a shortfall of over $377,000 in the budget that I presented you and that we worked on during our budget workshop.
088So, uh, when Matt and I first found out about this and, uh, our jaws were on the ground, the next thing we did is we took three steps to see what we can do to to rectify this this concern. Here are the three steps. And what I'm going to do is the next three slides, I'm going to break them down for you so you could see exactly what we did in our actions. So the first thing we did is we fixed the budget. We took the 2024 2025 line item that was mistakenly used and we replaced it with the 2005 uh 2000 2025 2026 uh line item that was supposed to be used. And you see when we subtract them, we have that $377,39 shortfall. So, that was the first thing we needed to do
089to solve the problem is we needed to um put that out there. And Kelly, I see you writing. You don't need to write. >> We have brand new binders for all of you and this is in your binder. >> The first presentation's in their binder >> and this updated presentation is in your binder. Everything's in there. So, uh we and also an updated budget. So everything is going to be we'll take your other ones back, give you brand new ones so there's no confusion. If you really want to keep the one you have now, that's fine, too. But um all the numbers have changed because we have a new starting point in our budget based on this information. Okay, so that's the first thing we did. Number two, the biggest risk that we knew was
090in our budget dealt with health insurance. We said that from the beginning. We don't have accurate numbers yet. So when Matt came to me and said, "Uh oh." He might not have used those words. Um but when he came to me, the first thing I said to him is, "Call our broker. Let's see what our actual insurance numbers are coming in at because we're shifting insurance." and the broker kind of recommended off his off of his new assumptions off of the information he had instead of going with a 22% increase in insurance move it to 20 you should be okay. So it's a calculated risk that we're taking in the budget. The second thing he did is he said, "We're going to adjust your prescription co-ayment coverage to this, which still aligns to what you
091have, but that will also save you an additional amount of money." So those shifts saved a total of $538,179. So I was like, "All right, we're good. Plus, we have extra money." And I was told I was wrong. Um because I forgot that we've already put a savings in our original budget >> and we're working off all different numbers now. >> Did I say that right, Matt? >> Mhm. >> All right. >> So far, you're dead you're dead on. >> So there we go. So >> easy. Listen to me. >> But there is an adjustment in total savings. But again, you see the red risk there because while it's calculated, these are projections and assumptions by our broker that we put in there. The third action we took dealt with staff savings. So, as you
092know, in my original recommended budget, I put a $20,000 savings on possible retirements. We've had a retirement. Bob Nav from the high school has retired and being a social studies high school teacher, we believe that we'll have more than a $20,000 savings in that hire. So, we added $10,000. It's the second bullet up there to that savings. Additionally, we have three people at this point that have reached out inquiring additional three people inquiring about possible retirement. And so we have that and we have a number of non-renewals that we'll be dealing with and addressing as administration. Between those two items, more in the retirements than the non-renewals, we're putting a $75,000 risk in the budget here. Now, these numbers are chosen by Matt and I um based off of of the the calculated risk we
093took in the the health insurance because by making these changes, we get back to the original numbers. We get back to 3.72 for my recommended budget and 3.99 for your possible adopted budget or the adjustments that you made in your budget. Again, I have underneath there are two areas that contain calculated risks. One deals with the staffing. We might get no one to retire. No one else besides Bob Nave. We'll have a $75,000 hole. It might be less than that because of non-renewals, but we'll have a hole in our budget starting next year. the risks that we're taking. Our health insurance might come in at 21% or the 22%. It's a risk that we're taking, but this brings us back down to our original numbers. So, we we found the hole. We found the problem.
094We resolved it. We're coming to you to tell you we made an honest mistake in carrying a number over. Um, and this is just where we are right now with some risk that we've had to the the health insurance risk was already there. Uh, it's really the staffing risk. And just for for perspective, last year we put down based on the numbers, we put down an $80,000 savings in retirements. We had even more savings than that in retirements based on circumstance and situation in health insurance and things like that. So, uh, this is just where we are. And those three actions bring us back to the numbers that we started with when we presented. Not ideal, not what we wanted. It's just it was a mistake that was overlooked in the in the developmental process.
095So, um, now that that's done, I want to pause to answer questions before I go on to what additions and adjustments you guys asked for. I can go back to anything and Matt has something else to say. >> And before you ask any questions is the other piece regarding health insurance is that conversation also prompted me to um have our health insurance program put out to bid. It was a they they had Brown and Brown advised that we put it out to bid to see if we can get any other advantageous numbers from competitive. Typically once you put it out competitively actually sometimes Anthem comes back and says, "Oh, okay. We're going to do a little better. >> We're going to play we're going to play a little more ball with you guys." So right
096now it's out to bid. >> That's a good choice. We know what our rates are basically going to be for this year. And I took every single employee currently working in every single position we currently have in the budget and I applied the appropriate family single to calculate it out. Um, and as Brian said, risk, but now I just want you to know that it is out to bid. We won't have the results until probably March and we won't probably have real rates until March. We'll be well into meetings with the town by then anyway. So, >> I was going to ask that because I sat through another district's budget meeting this week and they kind of made it seem like they do that every year to try to like get the best numbers, put
097those insurance numbers out to bid to keep it competitive. So, >> is that typical to do that at least every so often so we can see what else is available? >> Yeah. So, this year we're on a renewal year. What we we had locked in rates for two years. So, another year >> um typically when you get bad news about what your renewal rates is is that's where you go is to go out to bid. Okay. >> Um, selffunded insurance typically goes out more often. We're not we're fully we're fully insured through some, you know, through a company. >> Um, and it really, look, I'm not an insurance expert, but what I do know is I I trust our our broker is Chuck's been doing it for us for a long time and and he
098gives good advice. So, when he said you should go out to bid at this point, that's what we did. If you remember when we switched from the state plan to our to this this program, we went out to bid and that's how we we were able to lock in rates. So that's what we're looking at. >> Yeah. And Kelly, this is my fifth year here. So I came in to the state program, I believe, and then we changed with a cap in the in the third year changed with a cap in the in the fit. So it's >> so it's like every other >> it's basically every other based on the caps. I've been playing the insurance game for since I got here because we're trying to control it as much as we can. >>
099It's ridiculous the costs. >> Listen, I I have colleagues that I was with a bunch of them on Friday at a professional development event and they're talking they're getting 50% increases. That's the rate that they're they're being told. >> I said 50%. >> Yeah. So, yeah, >> it's crazy. >> So, >> any other questions? At the end of the day, we build back to the numbers that you have already seen, right? And and the numbers that have adjusted are in the same categories we've discussed. All right. So, I'm going to keep going through. I don't know if this will make you tentative on adopting the budget this evening or not. I'm not sure. Um, but I'm going to keep going as here's the issue. We have resolved it. We're back to our numbers. Uh, and
100again, you might not have questions right now, but you might have questions tomorrow or the next day. Shoot us an email. Like, we want to be as open as we can to that in the process. So, looking at this chart here, you have what was in my recommended budget up top with the three building substitute teachers. Remember we talked about those being union issues at Plymouth Center and there was a union coverage issues at Plymouth Center and at Fiser. So we were adding one sub at at Fiser and two at Plymouth Center. You have a chemical hygiene specialist which really does uh resolve and work with OSHA compliance. And then you have the lunch program support based on any shortfalls we might have in the program. Those are the pieces I added. And then the
101board of education added two regular education uh teacher aids and one daytime security monitor in one of our schools. And so that's been added to the budget. Underneath that I have the things from our draft of the five-year strategic plan which I know we're going to shift. I just want to point out the two things on the bottom. Uh those are our stipens. One's the cultural learning club at the elementary schools. The other was the uh American sign language. Remember we talked about the the um the stipen structure we already have in place in the contracts. So we can run those with what's with already in the budget based on the structure of that if we find a person for that. So So this is the superintendent's recommended budget versus the board of education's adjusted
102budget that you had make. What you're going to notice here are our numbers are less than we originally presented to you. Again, when we had that starting point shift with the error, it brought the numbers actually down. >> The act the the actual dollars the percentage stays >> the percentage, but the dollars come down. So, when you look at uh where we started, what we're asking for the difference, we're still at 3.72. you're still 3.99. But it's the next slide that is interesting and this is a mis perception of some people in our community that we have to correct. Our budget that that the board is looking at with the possible adjustment is 28,680,173. That is not what Plymouth pays towards educational taxes in this town because we have the state grant that is funding
1039,82,121. This is the part I told you uh Governor Lamont froze. That's still there. So when you look at the amount the taxpayer pays towards education, it's $18,878,52. So it's important that we take off that grant funded when we talk about the taxpayer and the impact on the taxpayer. So here's the budget support we need. I adjusted this um chart so you see what happens if we get 2%. The town would give us $551,000 uh $571 towards our budget and then we would have to eliminate $550,50. And as you go up, you see the numbers kind of adjust. And you have the yellow mark, which is my recommended budget. And then you have the blue mark, which is the uh budget that you've adjusted and how much we would need for each of those thresholds.
104And then I go to the caps of the Connecticut Association of Public School Superintendent. And um before I even talk about this, there is a reality that our budget, whether people want to hear it or not, is really not the number it should be. We've taken 0% over years. We've taken very minimal increases year in and year out and year out. before I got here. Before I got here, this isn't what the previous mayor and other towns budgets increased with the cost of living. Ours didn't. Ours was basically frozen for a number of years. And that happened 15 years ago, but it's impacting us now because our starting number and other district starting numbers are different. We're at $27 million. Other districts our size and are at $32 million. So, we're already starting short and
105behind based on how things have happened in the past. But this is important for you to see as well. The average superintendent recommended budget this year according to CAPS on February I think 6th um was 5.35. That's 1.63% lower than what I presented to you >> or 44 higher >> higher higher thank you higher then I presented to you. Uh so that's important to see. And then underneath it, we're starting to see what board of educations have adopted. And that number as of February 6th was 4 uh 31% or 32% higher than what you're coming in with in this presentation, which is 87,13, which you know, people might say, well, $87,000 in a a 27 or$28 million budget. You know what? All of our funds are tied up in people. That right there is security.
106That right there is a library media specialist or a social worker. That's what this comes down to. And we're, again, I've said this at every presentation I've done. We're not asking for things that are ridiculous. We're asking for normal things that schools have in place to function. And so that's where we are with our budget compared to others at this point in time. So the next step is we possibly adopt the budget tonight. We we have to vote on that and I don't know how that vote's going to go, especially with the new information we provided you this evening. On f if you do adopt the budget on February 13th, we would then submit our budget to the board of finance. The board of finance asked us to present our budget originally on February 17th,
107but we had a correction in the date. It's actually February 19th is is the board of finance meeting. So, they asked us to present there. We will be ready to present on the 19th um if the budget is passed. But I honestly I found this out a this afternoon at >> 4:30 about the change in the times uh from the 17th to the 19th and I didn't ask Karen if she's available. So um and I and I'm pretty sure Matt's not at this point, but we're going to he's going to cancel some some things. >> Um so that's kind of where we are right now in the next steps. It all depends on whether the board this evening adopts the budget as presented or if we want to take another look and go to a
108budget workshop. I want to stress that we do have time. We have till the end of this month per town charter to get our budget to the board of finance. So there is no rush in this process if we want to work through this more um or if we we have more questions. So, I'm there's no pressure in doing it this evening, but that's really up to you. Um, and I and Matt and I have talked about this. Even with the error within the budget, it really doesn't change how we're moving forward. There's that the risk is in there no matter what. Um, so this is where we are um at 3.9. Any questions for myself or Matt or Beth? Um, can you do me a favor? >> Sure. >> Can you go back to
109that ECS grant money slide? >> Tell me which one. >> This one. >> Uh, no. Next. I think it's the one before that. >> This is the educational cost sharing with the town. That's the >> nope. That's that one. >> This one. >> Okay. So, as everybody in this room, but this is for the people that weren't here when I've been hopping on ECS grant money. ES grant money was changed. The formula was changed in 2017. In 2018, we were allocated right where you see on that board right there, $9.8 million in a certain year. And in another year, we were appointed $9.7 million. In having a discussion with our state rep, Henry Martin, he has told myself that we actually are $100,000 over the state grant and we owe the state money because when
110they did the formula, they made a $100,000 mistake for the town of Plymouth. But it wasn't only the town of Plymouth. I do believe there's 20 other towns in the state that have the same problem that we have. Okay. So if you look at that, if we got $9.8 million in 2018 and now it's 2025 >> 26, >> right? Oh, 2026. I apologize. Um, I don't know about you, but I can't play with 2018 money in 2026 if I didn't get a raise in my wages when I worked or in what I get for a raise now with social security. All right, I couldn't play with that kind of money. But yet the state and as governor as uh the superintendent, Mr. alluded to is that Governor Lamont has decided to flat fund ECS grant
111money again. And if you didn't realize it, now he's going to take $12 million from the magnet schools, which means that whatever kids from Tville go to the magnet schools, if they decide to up their tuition rates, that means we as the board of education have to pay that. We have no choice. Okay. So the thing is is that you have to understand that trying to play with money from 2018 which is now 2026 is not working. It just isn't. And the onus is on every single person in this room and who's a taxpayer that you have to make up the money and make up whatever shortfall the state of Connecticut doesn't want to do. There is in the budget this year a 4.4% 4% increase by the state. Governor Lamont already put that out
112in his uh state of the state address, okay, when the uh state legislature came in. He's dedicating $95 million to education, but he hasn't stipulated where the $95 million is going to. All right? And he also hasn't stipulated what each community is going to get. So as we all know what usually ends up happening with extra state money. The individuals at the top of the food chain get a considerable amount of money and the individuals at the bottom of the food chain get whatever is left over. So, if everybody is looking that maybe we're going to have a huge windfall from the state with that extra $95 million, I wouldn't bank on it. So, just understand that what needs to be done is that state grant funded money, they need to up that. And there's
113taxpayers in this room that should be talking to state legislators, okay? No matter whether it's Henry Martin, Joe Hawk, or anybody else that you know, okay, you need to start talking to them that we in smalltown Connecticut cannot afford to continue to just be flatfunded. >> Any other questions? >> Brian, I have a question regarding the magnet school. Do we know how that's going to affect our budget right now? >> I don't know the number of students that will attend. Right now, the government's proposal would only apply to those students that go to a RESK magnet school. So, for example, Whams or uh what's the other one? >> No, not Lake View. That's that's >> Vagella. Those two wouldn't be affected. But the risk driven ones, which are Crack or ACES or any of those,
114we do have kids that go to CRE. um that tuition would increase 42% because right now it's capped at 58% of what they were doing in two years ago. Um but it depends on the number of students that can continue to go. I don't know what it is right now, but it would go up 42% plus because they're working off a two-year-old number, >> right? >> So, and they pretty much it sounds like they would be giving kind of cart blanch to charge whatever tuition they feel they need. Should is that something that we should take into consideration looking at the budget before we send it to the town? >> Um that because I don't know the numbers as I sit here. I I I don't know. But this is one of those operational things
115that we have to deal that I deal with every day, right? Is >> Robin things. It's the same it's the same conversation we have about >> outplacements and such is I make a guess >> and hope you know I use I don't like to use the term hope but >> and the numbers for those schools change so much like if one person declines they can pick another one from another town and it's just how it works out >> so I guess my answer to you was no I don't think I would increase the budget more um because I I think we're already giving putting forth challenging budget. >> I think the operational costs w with the budget that we have and you guys see it when you look at your negative here or you know
116like we're using some money from this area where we see where we have a whole like there could be an additional outplacement that we're working on based on the circumstance that's not budgeted. So we have to figure out okay where are we going to find that money? Are we going to freeze the budget? How much have we spent in oil? How much have we spent in gas? What do we have budgeted? It's doing all those things. And >> it's an interesting perspective when we have an admin meeting and both of them are saying, "Oh my god, these positions aren't filled." And I'm going, "Yes." >> Right. But >> it is it is it's challenging. And even I mean it could even be something as simple as a maternity leave. >> You have to pay for
117a a long-term sub. Then we have if we could find one and then we have um you know we're paying for the the six weeks when someone's out. So >> does FMLA come into I know we you know there's six weeks but then they can add get additional FMLA. Do we have to pay that? >> FMLA is FMLA is unpaid time unless they have sick time to use. What FMLA does is it protects their position. >> Right. >> Okay. Yeah, but in a a maternity leave it's a little different. >> Yeah, maternity leaves are different. >> Yeah. No, I I get Okay. I just wanted to know if there was a if there was a charge that we have to incur with. >> Well, we can go ahead and make our motion and then we
118can discuss it further too before we vote. So, >> do you do you want me to keep this or >> I'll stay up here? You guys don't. >> All right. All right. I'd like to entertain a motion to adopt the Plymouth Board of Education budget for 2026 2027 as presented to the board with an increase of 3.99% over last year's 2025 2026 budget. Do I have a motion? >> So moved. >> Mr. Showers. >> Second, Mr. Baneer. >> Any discussion? So now we can talk about it. Ready? Okay. >> Well, actually, >> yeah, >> I do have a concern. >> Can we get to where we are going to add an additional uh what two two teachers aid >> is it? That's this one. >> Yeah. Okay. >> So, I I'll come over here real
119quick. I don't know if you can see it. And again, I have binders. We can probably So you can see these are three building substitutes that I put in chemical hygiene specialists lunch program two regular education aids and then the daytime security and then again those are the two stipens that in the structure that we have we already have it in in the contract. Well, the concern is is that we're only going to hire one security guard and we have three schools that need security guards. >> We're trying to phase it in like cuz what we talked about was like we'll do one this year and then hopefully next year we'll be able to do another one because of the cost of doing four interviews. >> Right. >> I understand that but this is this
120is the dilemma that I'm having. Okay. >> Is that the two schools that don't get them? >> What kind of negative feedback do we get from those? >> Right. This >> Well, I think maybe when we have the discussion of like we're looking to have have this as a phase in like these are our options. Either we have one now or we have this is what the impact is going to be financially. >> So, we can't have all of it at one time. Mhm. >> Well, we could we very well could have all of it at one time. >> Well, we would love to have all of it at one time. It's probably not something that's going to be agreed upon. >> I understand. I just That's just my concern. >> Yeah. My concern is
121>> what is the feedback? What is the perception from from the schools that don't that don't get it >> that don't get that's the only concern that I have. >> I understand where what we agreed upon. >> Here we are. I I understand what we agreed upon. I'm just trying to wrap my head around the perception. >> Right. >> Okay. >> But we also have to be prepared like we talked about in the workshop. If we put it in there and the town says >> no, >> we're not getting that, we got to be prepared to take it out and >> or we push for a referendum. But then we could lose a lot more >> or we could win like we did last time. >> Yes. >> True. >> If we do it >>
122just saying >> I think just the whole point of >> I like the glass half >> moving forward really the discussion >> really isn't going to happen until we get those numbers from downtown council. There's like nothing else we can really >> No. At this point we're we're just putting a budget forward. It doesn't mean it's the final number. It just means that this is what we're presenting. It's what we believe is right. >> And and to your point, Kelly, and and Karen, that's why Matt and I think even with the error in there, we're going to we're going to put some risk in there to shure it up. But at the end of the day, we're still waiting for what number is approved. And then from there, we might have to make additional adjustments,
123right? >> So, it's just kind of it's kind of the >> the format that we have to go through. So, um, and and Jerry, there's some things to be fair, I hear your point. Uh, but as as a district, we're going to re-evaluate some things, too. for example. Um well, you know what, I don't want to talk about that now u because it's a safety concern and so I won't I won't bring it up here, but um you know, if we're going to go into executive session and I don't know if we can add that to the agenda or not at this point. Um but I can share what what I'm working on behind the scenes as well. I just can't do it in public. All right. Any other discussion on the motion? All right,
124seeing none, I'm going to move to the vote. Um, let's see. We're going to have a roll call vote. Let me get my page here. >> Mrs. Tilton, >> yes. >> Mr. Showers, >> yes. >> Mr. Foot, >> yes. >> Miss Palmer, >> yes. >> Miss Corey, >> yes. >> Mrs. Allen, >> yes. >> Mr. Peragino is not here. And finally, Mr. Bubner. >> No. Okay, motion passes six to one. All right, we are moving on to item number 10, business manager report, which should be nice and sweet. Short and sweet. >> Uh, it's shorter. It's still not nice and short. It's not short and sweet. So, uh, budget 202526 as I wrote in my report, right? New month, same story. We're continuing along to spend at the expected rates and I am very positive
125about how the year is progressing. We're doing fine. Food service. Um you saw in the in your packet you got a thing that food service posted a profit for the month of January. Um it's amazing what a whole month of having kids in the buildings will do >> and uh really happy with the program and the staff. Um the administrative review is essentially complete. Uh we've received a draft copy of the report. We had a total of seven minor findings, most of which were expected. We we sort of knew that we would be found there. Um and we're currently preparing our corrective action plan as required. Um it's due back to the state on March 10th. Um the the staff deserves to be, you know, accommodate you. Be proud of them. We did a really
126good job. Um, and I just want to quote the last line of the report. It says, "Overall, this was an excellent administrative review with only very minor findings identified. We thank the Plymouth Public School District and its staff for their continued hard work and dedication and support of the USDA child nutrition program. Um, our auditor came in and I think that she expected to find more than than she did. and you know and and I'm really happy with it that you should be too. >> Pass along our appreciation to them. If you absolutely I'm sure they're I'm sure they're all out there listening. Of course, >> you know, in case they're not. >> I'm sure some of them are >> big part of it sitting right over there. >> Um >> I already talked about
127HS and what I'm pursuing with them. So, I'm not going to rehash that. But, as you know, last year we transitioned our custodial services to HS. And while it was a difficult decision for us and the board, um HS has taken really good care of our staff. Um they've provided them with um new uniforms, new winter wear, new gloves, hats. Like these guys are walking around with all of their stuff on. It's really it's great. Um they took them out for a steak dinner at Texas Roadhouse for the holidays and I know already know that there's another one planned. I'm trying to figure out how to get invited to that. Um and it's created opportunities for growth. Um we've had one of our one of our folks has just moved out of our district to
128take a promotion and significantly changed a significant change to their life which is good for them. So while Jason Taylor was great for us here, we wish him very well in his new role. And we've also um uh we have two custodial and a maintenance employee that have been promoted within so to take those places. So, um, with their continued with HS's continued regional growth, we anticipate additional advancement opportunities for our folks. Um, and that's an added benefit for them, right, is if if everything was internal here, that's what they would be doing. Now, they have an opportunity to to grow outside of that, which is great. So, just wanted to let you know that the partnership um has been great so far and they have more than met up to their you know their
129commitments to us and their staff. So, with that questions, >> I just have one. >> Sure. >> Um first of all, I just want to thank you for always being so thorough with your work and answering millions of questions and really taking new ideas and trying to find creative ways to be responsible with the money. Um, last month you had said we needed to potentially do something with a policy as a result of that. Is that something we need to put on the calendar because, you know, we have to do the first read and the second read. I just want to make sure that we we get that done for you guys so you're in compliance. >> Yeah, it's it's one of the it's one of the findings is we have to update a policy.
130I spoke with Brian about it this morning. We're going to update the policy and he's got a series of policies that need to be updated. it will be part of that process. And I've already had a conversation with our auditor and said, "Listen, you know the process for a board. They have to have a first read. They have to have a second read. It's not going to happen in 30 days." >> Right. >> And she's fine with that. What I have to do is send her a copy of the draft and just say it's progressing along. >> So, we're good. Thank you. >> Just want to make sure that I cover that for you. >> Thank you for asking. And just for clarification, I only have I only have one policy that's been we approved
131the policies and then they changed another one like three days later after we approved it. So we have probably two, so it shouldn't be a long meeting. >> Okay. >> Anything else for Mr. Tens? >> Okay. Anything for the personnel report, Mr. F? The only thing I would want to mention is if you look um I mentioned the retirement of Bob Nav um when I was at the podium. Um we'll say more about him. I mean it's only February 11th. We have plenty of time to say thank you to him over time. But um I I do want to thank Bob. I worked with him for four years as the high school principal here and now as five as the superintendent. And um he he has just done so many great things for so many
132students. And so, uh, congratulations to him on his retirement. >> Absolutely. All right, that brings us to item number 11, public comment. Let's start with inperson public comment. Please come to the podium. reading material. >> I'll catch him up short. I received today the fraud uh assessment that was done and I suggest all of you go to the mayor's office and get a copy because everyone's involved and it is not a pretty picture. Another thing, I hope whatever you have that you claim you're so transparent, I hope what happened last year doesn't happen this year where you get rid of people and then the the superintendent, the business manager, and whoever gets a raise. I think it should be put in there before we vote on it. And I think that should be part of
133this agenda that you have to look at this. Everything must be on there. No changes. After you have a budget, then you give raises. Thank you. All right. Anyone else for public comment? Please join us at the podium. Okay. Anyone online? No one online. Okay. >> Great. Thank you. Thank you so much. We are moving on to item 12, committee reports. Uh special meeting of the Plymouth Board of Education Curriculum and Instruction Committee meeting Thursday, February 5th. Miss Tilton. >> Uh yeah, we had a pretty nice discussion with Mr. Halts about what um what we're offering at the high school. Um I think, you know, we have some great opportunities for our students here. Um, I appreciate that so many people were um involved and I think it's just good information to everybody have a
134good understanding of what we're doing and and what we can work on. Um, didn't really bear out too much information about opportunities from at advance but um we tried we asked the questions and I think that's what we can do to see what else is out there. So that's pretty much it. >> Okay. And the finance special meeting, Mr. Bman, >> that meeting was held >> February 9th, which is Monday of this week. We did go through the accounts by facilities report. There were a couple of questions from Mrs. Palmer concerning dues and travels, which travel expenses, which was um explained to Mrs. Palmer and the committee by our uh business manager, Matt. Um I attended both the Eli Terry Middle School walkth through and the Harry Siser walkthrough and there was a discussion current
135uh concerning each of those schools. The first school was Eli Terry and uh needless to say the uh the work that was done because of the water damage is now complete. Um the floor is in. I do believe Matt we're still waiting. Are we still waiting for furniture? >> Nope. Everything's all done. >> Everything's all done. That that room will be turned over on uh when they return from February break. >> Okay. >> So, um that whole uh situation with the insurance is now complete. So, the gym is done. Uh any flooring that needed needed to be replaced. um this uh the room that was technically damaged, the classroom that is all set and getting ready to be uh gone through. There was one area that the principal had uh Mr. uh >> Paggley or
136Figley. Okay. Um his concern was the old um computer room. There is a cinder block wall that is in the middle of the room. Okay? And it's in the area where our special needs students are. They're in a classroom adjacent to that room. So, what he recommended is that maybe we should look at getting rid of that wall, making that into um the a bigger special needs classroom compared to what they have now, and taking the students that are in a very small room, but are in the bigger room and utilize the smaller room for one-on-one, which makes a lot of sense because now what they have to do is they have to take kids from that small little classroom across the hall to another classroom if it's on a onetoone and then sometimes as
137we all know there are some issues that may apply. So it's more than likely beneficial if we decide as a board if depending on the cost associated which Matt is getting a cost that it would be beneficial to do that. Okay. because that will technically it would be great because all you need to do is this is the larger classroom on a one to one they just open the door and they walk in there so there's no walking across halls so it would be definitely great fisher was a was a total a whole different animal just was okay so as you heard we have issues with heat pumps and we also have an issue with the roof leaking basically on the north side which is where the third, fourth and fifth grade classrooms are. Okay.
138So, um and that's the part where the where the roof is, the original roof which is 60 years old. There are other issues that are there too is as you walk down to where the gym is, there's a water fountain here that it's not good. Uh it's I wouldn't even have I wouldn't even drink on it. Okay. So I had recommended to Matt that hey I can talk to Jim Maze on and maybe we should just get rid of that water fountain because of the way it looks. And more than likely you can because all you have to do is just unhook it, put a metal plate over there until we determine with the board if we're going to add a new water fountain there. And more than likely, you can probably get some type
139of reimbursement from the water company because you're adding a new specific type of uh water fountain, which is if you look at the one that's over in the back there, that usually is never works. But, you know, we've had complaints and they finally fixed it. But, they can put one of those in. Okay. The other issue is that if you go around the corner and you go up the ramp, there's an electric heater there that it wasn't working at the time we were there according to the according to the custodian that walked through, the head custodian, but evidently it's working now. But unfortunately, that that heater is is not big enough to heat that space. So if anybody has been at Fiser, it's on the back side walking up the ramp. Okay. So um as
140what's ending up happening in that school is that there are areas of the school that thank God we don't have students there but still you have to heat that part of the area too. And there's also issues with the windows that look into the courtyard there because evidently they shift. So the the maintenance staff, Jim Maison and his maintenance staff are constantly working on re-justing those windows. So as you can see, nothing against the age of our buildings, but as they get older, there is more and more work that needs to be done. So that's some of the issues that came up in our discussion. And as you can see this evening, the biggest part is the heat pumps and that's already discussed and decided. They're working on it and then we as a board
141of education are going to have to decide on how we're going to fund that. >> That's it. >> All right. Great. All right. Board liaison reports. Miss Palmer. >> Last night was the Plymouth um PTA meeting. Um, they had an event with, I believe, the eighth grade where the first graders drew monsters and the eighth grade sewed them. And then the two classes um, got together and they got to see what each other did and it was it was really good. Um, through Facebook and friends who have kids in first grade and eighth grade, they posted pictures and it seemed to be very wellreceived. Um, and I hope that is something that can be done years going forward forward. Um, also fundraising is going on. They just ended their um, school spirit wire fundraiser and
142that um, is going to be distributed in the upcoming weeks. They've got um the book fair currently going on and um they have a build a buddy fundraiser coming up where the it's at night where the kids can go and they can it's kind of like build a bear but it's build a buddy. We went last year and it was very fun. So >> they've got a couple really fundraisers coming up. >> Great. >> Yeah. And that and that monster they they invited parents in and I think Mrs. Kao and and the staff are opening the doors to the school. They did end of the unit book um presentations for parents and we've had to stagger it because there are so many people that are that are coming in and so she's looking at other
143opportunities and even in the future of what we can do. So it's really going well. >> When we did our walkthrough at Eli, we stopped in Mrs. Fer's room and that's what the kids were working on. They were making the the monsters and they were so excited to do it. It was really cool to see. Yeah, it was very great. >> All right, Haras Fischer, Miss Allen. >> So, our meeting hasn't happened yet for this month. So, you guys get a new preview. >> Um, so, uh, the kids just had a circus assembly, which they loved, and I believe, including my own child, she's now planning her life in the circus. >> Um, so, you know, career goals. >> Circus. >> Yeah. Um the fourth and fifth grade chorus um just had a performance at
144a Wolfpack game last weekend. Uh they were very excited. We had 271 tickets sold through the Fisher Link. So it was a huge presence, you know, a lot of kids moving around from seats and just being able to kind of hang out and uh they had a lot of fun. Um some people, you know, are hardcore hockey fans, so they were uh sharing their wisdom. It was a spirited game. I'm guessing there was some beef left over from the last game and it carried forward to this one. Um, but they were so cute in their little white tops and black pants uh all up there singing. They were just so proud of themselves. So, definitely a huge shout out to Mr. Carter uh for organizing that level of chaos. Uh the PTA delivered winter care
145packages to all of the classrooms specials and resources um including things like Lysol wipes, tissues, hand sanitizer, and immune support uh drink mixes um to uh hopefully get them through this last push. Uh let's see. We just closed out spirit wear. Um, so that should be coming in uh probably by the end of the month to get passed out. We have a fifth grade celebration committee will be started. So if any parents are interested in uh in helping out on that committee, please reach out. We have some upcoming events. We have the school store is happening on Friday the 13th. So you never know what's going to happen. We have fifth grade paint night. um that'll be on March 18th. We have the book fair um which will be happening the same week as parent
146teacher conferences and we have the wrestling fundraiser that we're partnering with Eli and we even have some staff from each school that are going to be participating. >> Nice. So, more to come. >> Excellent. >> Um Eli, Terry, Kelly, and Nicole. >> Uh we had our meeting last week, right? Was it last? >> 29th. Yeah, the 29th. Um, I know time flies. >> We just kind of talked about fundraising. We have a on the 27th we're doing a trivia night at the American Legion. It is adults only. Um, but there will be babysitting at Eli Terry if anybody wants to bring their kids there. The kids are being supervised by Miss Alicia from Learning Center. >> Do you have to go to the trivia night to drop off? >> No, you do not. That's actually
147been asked more than once. You do not have to go to the trivia night. Um, so I did have we also have the wrestling coming up on March 20th. We have Mr. R that's going to be participating in the wrestling which is his lifelong dream. So that's going to be fun. Um, we're looking into having t-shirts made for the kids to like support the staff team. >> Yeah. Yeah. So, >> um, that's going to be a good time. There is one thing I was talking to Darren about. he brought up at the meeting that he would like to possibly have a middle school liaison come as we do with the high school. >> Oh, okay. >> Oh, that's >> um it might be a different student every time or come every other month because it's
148not as busy at the middle school. Um but they're getting to the age where, you know, public speaking, things like that are important. >> So, they should be represented here too to be able to >> Can we do that? >> Talk about what's going on. >> I think we should do it. >> All right. do it. >> Yeah. >> All in favor? >> I >> um so yeah, that's about it for right now. >> All right. Thank you. Um Terryville High School, Mr. Foot, >> the uh PTSA off to a good start raising money for after grad. Their pie sales netted uh $942. Uh the designer bag bingo which was in November got $2,215. Uh coming up will be the uh uh graduation signs in April and uh Mother's Day flowers will be in May.
149Uh June 11th is their projected uh graduation date unless we have another blizzard. >> Yep. All right, great. >> They have their their aftergrad is scheduled for June 11th. >> They what? >> Their aftergrad celebration is scheduled for June 11th. >> June as of here it's June 11th and uh >> that's not our last day actually. >> Last day of school they're saying is June 12th. Is that >> this was last month? >> Yeah, as we've had some snow in between. So >> yeah, we'll have to we'll have to call. >> They usually they usually update that as they go. like they just kind of keep calling and changing it as they go. >> Yeah. And then as a board >> Yeah. Yeah. There's a gap. But as a board, you understand we'll we'll actually
150when we get out of the winter, we'll set that graduation date and try to work with them on a on a date that works. So if it's, you know, if our last day of school is on a a Monday, you might want to have graduation on a Friday and we can work that out. >> Yeah. >> All right. Um at Advance is currently vacant, so we will skip over that. Next is board comments. So, we'll start with you, Mr. Showers. >> I thought it was great having the uh state champs in here tonight. >> Yeah. >> And I wish them well in the nationals. That's it. >> Great. Just want to congratulate everyone on finishing some sports up and um thanks to all the staff and teachers who work so hard for us. You enjoy
151the week off next week. I wish I had a full week off. >> You and me both. >> Mr. foot. >> I really enjoyed the superintendent letter that was in our packet. It's just clearly stated in plain language that even somebody like myself could understand. >> You you were my target audience. >> All right. Um, Ms. Allen. >> Uh, I you know, good luck and congratulations to the esports team. Um, you know, I thank Boys and Girls Club for coming in and giving their presentation. Uh, very informative. Um, and you know, just I I know that the teachers are counting down these last couple of days, so I hope they enjoy their week off. >> Yes. >> All right, cool. >> Uh, yeah, congratulations to the esports. Thanks again to the Boys and Girls Club.
152I look forward to hopefully implementing them in the notsodistant future. Um, I really look forward to finding new ways that we can bring new opportunities for the kids throughout the rest of the year. >> Robin, >> um, again, the esports, congratulations to them and good luck. Um, and what everybody else has said so far. >> Yeah, it gets over. Say it over and over, Jerry. >> All right. Um, referencing esports. Esports is big in college now. It is. It's huge. That's, you know, that's really where this is, this is coming from and it's starting to slowly work down into the high school levels. So, for our kids, too. And from what I understand and in the walkthrough that I did with Mr. Falconee, um I'm not sure if you were there, Rob. Yeah, you were
153there, Robin. Um Jessica Herd, who is the assistant principal here. I do believe it's the black team. that is the most proficient out of the two teams and nobody want in the state of Connecticut wants to play them. Nobody. I do believe they only lost once. So kudos to them. Seriously, kudos to them and I wish them all the luck in nationals. But this is another avenue for them if they want to take their career further going into the college levels and then at some point down get into programming. This is another avenue for them to go into. Okay. Also, thank you very much to the Bristol Boys and Girls Club. Um I wish them all the luck in the world. All right. In order to do that, uh our student reps, they're the best.
154They are. And we've had student reps for god knows how long. All right. And as you can see, the director of the Bristol Boys and Club was very, very impressed with that. And we should be as a board of ed because there aren't too many boards of ed that actually have student representation. And I'm looking forward to hearing from Eli Terry kids >> on what's going on there. >> That's it on me. >> All right. Thank you. So, I just want to say that we learned a lot tonight from various sources. is all the people who spoke to us, our public um presentations and I really do appreciate it. Gives us something to think about, gives us something to questioning us too. Um we really do appreciate it and we encourage more people to please
155come to our meetings um watch us online public comment um we are always open to that. So thank you very much. All right. Next, the next regular meeting of the Plymouth Board of Education is on Wednesday, March 11th, at 6 p.m. in the cafeteria here at Terryville High School. And then I would like to entertain a motion to enter executive session at 8:16 p.m. inviting Mr. Falconee, superintendent, Mrs. Malo, assistant superintendent and Mr. Tenza, business manager into executive session to discuss the following Plymouth School Nurses Association contract negotiations and the Plymouth Education Associations which is a memorandum of understanding. >> So moved >> Mr. Showers, Mr. Bourbaner. All in favor? >> I. >> Any opposed? Any abstensions? Okay, motion carries. We are going to be in executive session at 8:54 p.m. And we have a
156motion to enter uh I'd like to entertain a motion to approve the Plymouth Education Memorandum of understanding as discussed in executive session. Do I have a motion? >> So moved. >> Mr. Showers, Mr. Foot. All in favor? >> I >> opposed. Name. >> So we have one. Anyone else? Um any abstensions? Okay. And motion carries. So that is six yes, one no. All right. Okay. That brings us to the final item. I'd like to entertain a motion to adjourn at 8:55 p.m. >> Second. >> Mr. Showers, Miss Palmer. All in favor? I >> motion carries. >> Thank you very much, everybody.