6-9-2026 Appoquinimink Board Meeting

001Good evening everyone and welcome to our regular board of education meeting. Today is Tuesday, June 9th. Um the board went into executive session at 5:00 p.m. by the motion of Mr. Mr. Higgins, second by Mr. Abrams to discuss legal issues and personnel matters. Um, and we will now move to our public meeting and we will start as we usually do with our pledge of allegiance of the fors. One nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. >> Dr. Burroughs, do we have any um agenda adjustments? >> Yes, we do have an agenda adjustment under item 11 ASD AFSCME custodial contract for approval. That's going to be tabled until July. Okay, thank you. And so we'll move right into our special recognition, which I am assuming all of you are here for. And we'll

002start with our Delaware Music Educators Young Composer Award. >> Okay. Um, just real quick, we have a lot of people here as you can see. Once your students recognized and pictures are taken, your students going to meet you out in the courtyard. So, if you go right out the doors you came in, they'll meet you right out there. You're more than welcome to stay um if you'd like, but if you would like to leave, that's where you're going to be able to meet your student. >> Good evening, ladies and gentlemen. My name is line and I'm the band director of high school and this evening it is my pleasure to recognize one of our outstanding senior musicians and scholars Joshua Baser. Joshua recently earned first place in the high school division of the Delaware Music

003Educators Association Young Composers Contest, a statewide competition that celebrates creativity, innovation, and excellence in music composition. The contest provides young composers from across Delaware the opportunity to have their original works evaluated by musical by music professionals and showcases the talent of our next generation of music students. Joshua's award-winning composition and I apologize I took Spanish not Latin preum morator how' I do Latin for as the meadow dies demonstrates remarkable musical maturity artistry and emotional depth. Through this original work, Joshua has distinguished himself not only as a talented performer, but also as a gifted composer whose musical voice reflects the highest standards of Odessa High School and the Aquinaming School District. On a personal personal note, I'd like to wish Josh all the best as he continues his studies in music composition at my alma mater,

004Westchester University, Rams Up. I cannot wait to program his future compositions with the Odessa High School band someday. Please join me in congratulating the Odessa High School senior Joshua. [applause] [applause] >> [applause] >> Next we have our Delaware Technology Student Association, Miss Meyers. >> Hi, good evening. My name is Lindseay Meyers. I'm the career and technical education specialist for the Appin School District. Um, tonight we are rec pleased to recognize students from our district who participated in the 2026 Delaware Technology Student Association State Leadership Conference. This event brought together nearly a thousand middle school and high school students from across Delaware to showcase their skills and achievements in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. We are proud of the students representing our district and congratulate them on their accomplishments. At this time, we will be recognizing

005our award recipients and we will be starting with our advisor from Reading Middle School. Good evening. I'm Sarah Leonard. I have the privilege of announcing our winners for Louis Reading Middle School. Um, first but unable to attend this evening is Grayson Campbell and James Olindski. They won third place in the state. [applause] >> [applause] >> for their video game design. And then also not able to make it this evening, Gokul Pabanla. He won first in our career prep. [applause] >> [applause] >> Hi, I'm Bill Shank. I'm one of the co-advisors of the Aoquin High School TSA and um I'll have uh we had over 20 winners at the state contest. Two of the best made it tonight. I'll introduce uh one who could not make it last year. I introduced her as the first state

006officer from our district and she's running a district or a state meeting right now so couldn't make it but she's the president uh this year and uh Middletown also has a second state officer. Um, I'd like to introduce U Ashani Dada [applause] and then uh and audio podcasting and [applause] Brishu G [applause] who along with Alicia Lou won uh first place in STEM mass media. and uh she will also be our state or our dis our chapter president next year. [applause] All right. Hello. I am Cory Hayer from Middletown High School. I'm representing our TSA program and I'm super excited to announce our uh award winners from our state conference. Uh first up we have Phoenix Beasley. [applause] Second, we have Sean Fellows, [applause] Ryan Gerber, [applause] Vinn Hamill, [applause] Nolan Hamill, [applause] Jenna Hughes,

007[applause] Loey Lee, [applause] Richard Newton, [applause] Dev Pandy, [applause] Singh, [applause] Travis Stern who's not able to be here tonight but [applause] still it upsy [applause] Upper [applause] Monica Far [applause] and Kayen Wheatley. [applause] So we had the opportunity uh so the we teams got second place in engineering uh design team uh second place in our board game design, third place in fashion design and those students will be going to nationals to represent and revise their work. Super proud of all of you and what you've done for the p uh program and looking forward to watching it grow. Thank you all. [applause] All these pictures will be on the website. So if you can't see your student now, you can go to the website later and you will be able to see the same picture

008our um our staff has. Thank you. >> I can't think of the title. >> Next. >> Oh wow, look at her. She looks so cool. Oh, chocolate. Hi there. I'm Dr. Benley. I teach engineering at Odessa High School and I am a co-adviser for technology students association. I'm here to present some of our students with some awards. So, Evan BS took first place in children's stories at the national at the state conference, second place in music production, and second place in video game design. [applause] Sophia Castella took first place in children's stories, second place in music production, and second place in video game design. [applause] Dylan Clark could not be with us tonight because he is a senior and you know he has graduated, but he did get third place in video game design. And

009Ryan Delaney, who is here, got first place with children's stories and second place with music production. [applause] Hello, my name is Jimmy Lavitz. I teach computer science and math at Odessa High School. I'm one of our other adviserss. Um, we have a few students that also were unable to make it tonight, but we still wanted to recognize them here. Um, first we have Jordan Hayes. He had third place in coding and also third place in video game design. We have Aaron Khan who received third place in video game design. Kelvin Opong a Jay third place in video game design. Rachel Sito with third place on the coding team and also third place on the video game design uh team. And then Aiden Zonvide who plays second place in the dragster competition. So congratulations to those

010students as well. [applause] >> [applause] >> Next, we're going to introduce our students from AGW who competed at our national competition for our um business professionals of America. Um this was held in Nashville, Tennessee this year. Um these events bring middle school and high school students from across the country to complete in workplace focused events, develop leadership skills, and connect with business and community leaders. We are so proud of all of our students hard work and accomplishments and look forward to recognizing their achievements this evening. I would now like to introduce Dr. John Tanner who will recognize his students from AGW. [applause] >> Good evening everyone. As Mrs. Meyer said, we are very proud of all of the students who participated in nationals this year in Nashville. We had nearly 40 students from AGW attend.

011And every single one of the students from AGW placed in the top 10 nationally. The students you'll meet tonight were the top three finishers nationally or excuse me in the top three. So, we are super impressed. Mrs. balan the adviser couldn't be here tonight but uh we're very glad to be able to celebrate these students with you so we have a dora [applause] yaragada [applause] lammani >> [applause] >> Mika Gandhi, [applause] Bobby Aurora, [applause] Lassia Condola, [applause] Taji Caseretti, [applause] Sheree, [applause] ciinity Condreal. [applause] >> Caesar Condreal. [applause] We have Chaititra Rasper Rayaro. [applause] We have Dia Ganesh Babu [applause] Saitan Vim. [applause] Adria Nepal, [applause] Anika Talis, Talisilla, [applause] and Zena Wgar. [snorts] >> [applause] >> education leadership contracts. >> Huh? >> Sure. You want to wait for them? >> Good evening everyone. So,

012we're going to wait for the group that's exiting for a moment so that we can make sure that everybody can hear. You saw the large group that just came in before that took pictures. We have a really large group that's coming in. It's a group of one. So, my name is Ed Small. I'm the director of human resources for the Aquinic School District and I am here to present to you the educational leadership pathway award recipients. These are individuals who are a part of the pathway that are in are able to receive a teacher contract from the perspective of a substitute teacher contract from the time that they graduate until the time that they are able to become a teacher from the perspective of having a bachelor's degree in education. So they start with a

013teacher's contract for a substitute teacher. Then once they're two years in or 60 credits in, they're able to receive a PAR educator contract. And from there, if they are able to graduate with an educational background, a um bachelor's degree in education, they're able to receive a teacher contract. So, I'm here to recognize Olivia Young for the recipient for the teacher contract. And let's give her a round of applause. [applause] Just one more piece of information. And there were over 30 teacher contract recipients for this year, but many of them were at senior week this week and as a result they had to make the decision between senior week and coming to be recognized and they went with senior week. Thank you. [applause] Good evening board members, families, staff, students. I'm Sarah Vienni Vento. I'm the

014proud coordinator of our Chinese and Spanish immersion programs and also world language. Tonight we are proud to recognize a remarkable group of students who have earned the pathway to multi-iteracy award. This achievement reflects their dedication, perseverance, and commitment to developing proficiency in more than one language. These students earn this award through their outstanding performance on the stamp assessment, earning scores that showcase not only their language ability, but also their ability to communicate across cultures and perspectives. Their accomplishments represent countless hours of study, practice, and determination. This award is an important milestone on the journey towards earning the state certificate of multi-iteracy, a distinction that recognizes high levels of proficiency in English and at least one other language. They are well on their way to achieving that state honor. Please join me in congratulating these students

015for their hard work and celebrating their valuable skills as they are developing multilingual and multicultural learners. We are incredibly proud of their accomplishments and look forward to everything that they're going to do in the future. They're our inspiration truly. Congratulations. We're gonna go one by one and school by school. >> So, we have a few kids to recognize today. We're going to start with Brick Mill Elementary. [applause] We have McKenzie Mardik, Matt Matteo Morales, [applause] and Justice Thornton. [applause] >> That's awesome. >> [applause] >> Thank you. Thank you. [applause] From Old State Elementary, we have Markeel Burgers, [applause] Zoe Cook, [applause] Justin Long, [applause] and David Lou. [applause] Jody. Yes. Come on out. Congratulations, Old [applause] [applause] from Silver Lake. We have Carly Fountain. Carly Fountain. I'll say it again. Lena Romero Herdon [applause] and

016Nicholas Santini. [applause] We're joined by their administrators. Meliss [applause] from Towns Enden Elementary. We have Oliver Ferguson. I had to get a quick little tutoring session on how to pronounce this name. So, I'm gonna do it right. Okay. Luca Luc, did I do it? [applause] Come on in. >> Sorios. Dr. Street. Awesome job. What is that? [applause] Moving on to our middle school from Canwell's Bridge Middle School, we have Allison Peacock, [applause] Caitlyn Peacock, Zoe Taylor, [applause] and Doris Trinidad. [applause] And we have their teachers here and their administrator. Oh, I'm going to stay right here then. Okay. [applause] It's a special group. They are moving up. They're our first cohort of Chinese immersion. and they're moving up to high school next year. So, we're very proud of them. [applause] And last, but certainly not

017least, our group from Meredith Middle School. We have Lucia Ora or Oh my gosh, I'm going to Orana Orana, [applause] Juan Borquez, Buenor, [applause] Morgan D. Castanado, [applause] Miles Johnson, [applause] Ella King, [applause] Keegan O'Neal, [applause] Camille Phillips, Jordan Wharton, >> [applause] >> and Maline Scott. [applause] We are joined by their teachers and administrator Beth Everett. Oh, we already need two rows. All right. Down on the We need a second row, guys. I'm always on the short group. I think you have You're in the short group. I'm sorry. [laughter] Have all pictures been taken? Let's try not to break the smile. [applause] >> [applause] >> Okay. Who's the one you? I'm sorry. That's me. >> We'd also like to recognize two additional students from Old State Elementary's Chinese immersion program. Earlier this year, the annual

018Chinese language association of secondary and elementary schools hosted a national poster design contest for immersion students across the nation. The 2026 theme was me and my community, challenging K to2 students across the US to showcase their artistic talents and Chinese language skills while reflecting on community engagement. From 200 entries from across the nation, two of our Old State otterters in Chinese immersion received this award. Ellaner Shu and Charlie Garrett. Who would you also like to recognize tonight? [cheering] [applause] >> [applause] >> Good evening. Every year, the Delaware Council for Teaching Foreign Languages recognizes a world language or immersion teacher as the ductful teacher of the year after a statewide nomination window, followed by an application and selection process. This year, the selection committee chose Everett Meredith Middle School's Chinese teacher, Chi Xiao, for her superior

019teaching of the Chinese language and culture to our novice learners. Congratulations, Miss Xiao. We are lucky to have you on our team. [applause] >> [applause] >> Thank you. Hi everybody. We're here to recognize our middle school spring sports championships. Uh we honored three teams this season. We ran boys and girls track. So tonight um first we're going to start with the boys track team. Coach Oliver was unable to be here but co coach Riser is here to represent the boys along with Cameron Badson, Dialin Wiggins, Miles Johnson, and Eric Trzinski. [applause] [cheering] >> [applause] >> and Beth Everett is in the picture. So, the boys um this is their fourth consecutive district championship. They won with a final score of 33 and AGW placed in second with a score of 17. So, congratulations gentlemen. [applause]

020And of course, the girls were not to be undone by the boys. The girls also captured their fourth consecutive district track championship. Also coached by coach Riser and coach Jackson. Representing the team tonight is Dana Wiggins, Hannah Sherman, Comfort Backan, Audrey Aubrey Guiles, and Tenley Foster. [applause and cheering] And to say these girls dominate is an understatement. They came in first with a score of 40 and Kwells Bridge came in second with a score of 16. Congratulations ladies. [applause] [applause] >> [applause] >> The final sport is our boys volleyball. This is the third year the district's offered boys volleyball and we're happy to say that every season we've had a different winner. So that's exciting. We have some consecutive champions, but this is a different winner. So this year the 2026 Abuquin School District boys

021volleyball champions are Kwells Bridge Middle School. They are represented by coach Jordan Robinson and the players as they come in Evan Anderson who is not here this evening. Savior Barker Jones. [applause] Jonah Cooker is not here this evening and Daniel Davis is not here this evening. Alexander Dorset, [applause] Keegan Freiler is unable to be here, but Philip Galloway is here. [applause] James Getting is not here, but Gurin Gruel is here. [applause] I feel like we got every other one. Nathaniel Hannah is unable to be here, but Zachary Heisy is here. >> [applause] >> Jeremy Kungu is un is not here but Javier Sandhar is here. [applause] And finally, Jacob Zebi was unable to be here. Many of them are performing in the concert back at Odessa. So they had another conflicting um thing. So boys,

022let's couple of you step up and do two rows. Come to the front. Come to the front. Come to the front. You guys slide in the back. There we go. All right, congratulations. They defeated AGW in the final meet two to zero. They finished their season undefeated with a record of nine to zero, only dropping one set all season. So, congratulations Kwellsbridge Cobras. [applause] Guys, head on out. Congratulations. [applause] Next over, we're going to switch over to high school and honor some of our high school individual athletes who competed in the track and field championship this year. Um, our first team, these are our gold medal winners. So, our first team that won a gold medal from Odessa High School. We're going to call in the coach Dendy and Coach Phoenix first. But in the

023girls 4 by 200, we have Audrey Howard. >> [applause] >> Magenta Dashore, who is not here this evening, Alexis Robinson, [applause] and Michaela Wilkins. [applause] That's the team. One picture of that team. I'll take the girls 4 by 200 state champions. >> Everybody [applause] Congratulations. [applause] Yep, you can go. [applause] Another state champion for the Odessa Ducks in the boys 110 meter hurdles is Rodney Cooker. Coker. Coker. Sorry. [applause] Congratulations, Rodney. [applause] Another relay team from Odessa High School is our boys 4 by 800 relay. This team team is Nathan Dataldo, [applause] Aiden Dataldo, [applause] Logan Heisy [applause] and Christian Generet. [applause] Congratulations, gentlemen. >> [applause] >> So, Middletown High School had two state champions. Also, unfortunately, neither could be here tonight, but Zamir Miller um was a gold medalist in the 200 meter dash

024and Jada Clark in the girls triple jump. And I believe they're both repeat state champions from indoor track. And that wraps up this spring. >> Thank you. [cheering] >> [applause] >> All right. At this time, um, I would like to recognize we have two retirees this year, ministry retirees. I'll start with, uh, Dr. John Tanner. Dr. J. John Tanner started working in the state uh with Denrech Parks and Operation and Maintenance back in uh 2000. He went on to uh teach high school at Cedar Caesar Rodney High School which was his alma mater at the time. Um he has done 23 years in the Apaccom school district 26 years total in the state. Um John was a excellent high school English teacher. He started there in 2003 was actually the school district teacher of the

025year in 2007. um went on to graduate from our aspiring administrators program and became an assistant principal in 2017 and since 2018 he's been the principal at Alfred G. Waters Middle School. I can say that John was an amazing teacher. I've been many places with John where people have come up and remembered Mr. Tanner at the time and just what an impact that he made on his life. So, I know at heart you're a teacher, John, and just thank you for all your years of service to the kids in our community. Thank you. [applause] >> [applause] >> Is Rachel in here? Can you get the Rachel? >> Oh, I'm sorry. I'm sorry. Rachel's in here. All right. Next, I'd like to recognize Dr. Rachel Jakes. Rachel has spent her entire career in the Apoc. She

026started out as a substitute teacher. um in Abuquick in 2000, became a teacher at Townsen Elementary School in 2001. In 2014, she became the first assistant principal at Old State Elementary School. And then in 2019, she became an assistant principal at Brick Mill Elementary School. And since 2021, she's been the principal at Brickmill Elementary School. Thank you, Rachel, for your 25 years of service. [applause] >> [applause] [applause] >> All right. Next, I would like to uh thank and recognize Miss Nelle Dwit for her four years of service to the Aquimic School Board. As you know that the school board is not a paid position. It's a lot of volunteer time and not many people are calling you up on the phone and thank you for doing it. But we do appreciate all your service. I

027first had the opportunity to meet Michelle um when she became heavily involved in our Reading Middle School referendum and from there on she became more and more involved and eventually decided to run for school board and has been a great asset to our our school board and to our community. We have a little gift bag for you if you want to come up. Um we actually have two proclamations for you. There's a proclamation from Governor Matt Meyers and there's also a proclamation from Senator Hansen and the Senate. Um, Senator Hansen wanted to be here tonight, but unfortunately she got stuck down in Dover doing business. But thank you so much for your service. Appreciate it. [applause] [cheering] [applause] about the picture. >> [applause] [applause] >> Dr. Burroughs, if I can just have a point of

028privilege before you jump to that, please. Um, so I just wanted to comment on Michelle's service um to the board and I just wanted to publicly just acknowledge all of your work. I think you know from the board perspective, we see you behind closed doors and also here in the front and although business does occur out here, there's a lot of business that takes place behind uh closed doors and what we actually call executive session. And so I just wanted to acknowledge you in the regard of being not just a thought partner but also kind of pushing us to think differently. I think you've been very consistent in challenging our thoughts and being an advocate consistently. This woman will check us quickly in terms of what we're doing and how we're thinking about it. And

029so I always appreciate that because often I sit back and I'm like, hm, I didn't think of it that way, you know, and then sometimes we have conversations and it's like you explain it and I'm like, "Oh, that that's actually a good point." And I can kind of reach which get to what you're the point that you're trying to make. And so I just wanted to publicly acknowledge that. And then most importantly most most importantly, uh you hold firm to always doing what's best for children. like you that is definitely your guiding light and you were consistent in that the few years that I served alongside of you. So, I just wanted to publicly acknowledge your commitment to the district. Like I said, what we see behind what we experience behind closed doors and also

030what the public gets to see from you um not just in this setting, but also when we're just out in the public participating in events. So, I thank you for your service. I know you will continue to go on and do do good things and I certainly appreciate you. Thank you. Thank you. [applause] >> Um, I was going to save it for board comments, but since we're going to do it now, um, Mr. Wood, I know you only served here four years, and I'll pick up on what Dr. D had said. >> Um, I know you helped pass a successful rant, a lot of referendum, but one of the most important things I thought you brought to the table was you challenged the board in everything we did. you ask the right questions the hard

031way. Why do we do it this way? Why do we do it that way? Should we do it this way? Should we do it that way? So, there was a lot of time in the first 18 months where we were stepping over backwards trying to figure out were we doing things the right way? Find out we were doing some things the right way and some things we needed to improve on. So, I thank you for bringing that thing that you never gave up on. The the ability for you to advocate for students is second to none. This this job is everything about making students better. You kept them to your forefront the whole time. Um, we are a better district. >> [clears throat] >> We are a better district today because of your four years

032here. Thank you. >> I also was going to uh >> so point of privilege. Um, thinking back on what uh board member said, um, I've been with a show in a board capacity for, uh, just a year. Um, helped me learn and grow as a board member. Help me see things differently than I would, which I think is what a board should do for each other, compliment each other. But more than anything, you as a person to me, I will always remember. Um, they always say when the chips are down, who's there for you? Uh we've had some personal uh health issues over the last few months and Michelle was right there um offer help demand to help. Um, and we as a family appreciate that. We, you know, spent a little time with my

033my wife and I. And, um, I just want to say I appreciate everything you've done on the board, but also like anybody here doing a volunteer job. Doesn't surprise me that you're such a good person, but that's what I'm personally going to take away is the person that you are and appreciate everything you've done for this board, for me, and for my family. So, thank you. [applause] All right. Next, I'd like to res recognize Mr. Richard Forston. Um, he served 15 years on the Appick School Board. Uh, did not miss a meeting until tonight. Unfortunately, he's unable to be here tonight. And so, that's quite a service record um as a volunteer to be at every meeting that uh the district has had for over 15 years. There was a lot of changes and things

034that the district went through in the 15 years that Mr. Forson's been on the board. Um, Mr. Forson, one thing I appreciated about him is he may never may have not agreed with decisions that were made, but always got behind decisions were made. So, when the board made a decision, he went with the decision of the board and stuck with that decision and defended it uh, and defended the district. So, very much appreciative of Mr. Forson and his 15 years of service. and um he also has a proclamation um from the governor and also a proclamation from Senator Hansen in the Senate. So, thank you for Mr. Forston. [applause] >> Um I would like to just say something since there are some people here that will probably leave after um this this this part. So

035um as my time on the Apoquinic School Board comes to a close, I want to sincerely thank the students, the families, the educators, staff, and administrators, and the community members who gave me the privilege of serving. Since being elected in 2022, I have worked to lead with honesty, transparency, and accountability, and the commitment to do what is best for children. I am proud of the conversations we've had, the challenges we've tackled, and the progress we made together. Serving this district has been an honor. I have witnessed firsthand the dedication of our teachers and staff, the resilience of our students, and the passion of a community that deeply cares about the public education. I would also like to thank my mother who was my first elected official, family, close friends, my sorority sisters for their unwavering

036support, encouragement and prayers throughout the journey. Public service often requires sacrifices from those closest to us. And I could not have done this without without you. My daughter Assiah, [snorts] my oldest son, Max, and yeah, even King [clears throat] um have all um been there and have missed moments of me being at their events [snorts] just to serve. So, thank you. And to everyone who supported me, challenged me, encouraged me, and trusted me with your vote. Thank you. While my term on the board may be ending, my commitment to our children and students and the community will remain strong. And I wish our newly elected board members success as they begin their service. My hope is that every decision is guided by what matters most, doing what's best for kids. When we keep kids, students

037at the center of every conversation and decision and every vote, our district will continue to thrive. Thank you. [applause] [applause] Um so to keep with tradition, we'll pause briefly. um who is here in person with us. Thank you. Thank you. Um, welcome back everyone. We were just on a brief um, pause as we celebrated um, our outgoing uh, board members and so we will now resume with our formal meeting. Um, and I just did want to note that um, as you can see there's four of us present here tonight, but I did just want to note that this is technically a quorum and so we are able to transact the business of the board this evening, right? Because we're a fivep person board, majority is three. So I just wanted to note that for the

038public. Um, and so moving right along with our agenda is public comment. And as we prepare for public comment, I did just want to read this statement. The board encourages speakers to be constructive in the spirit of identifying issues and solutions that will better serve students in an effort to afford an opportunity to hear from all members of the community who wish to address the board. Comment shall be limited to three minutes or less per speaker. The time cannot be given to another. If more than one person wishes to speak on the same topic, the second and subsequent speakers are limited to providing new information only. Public comment is an opportunity to address the board. The board will not participate in discussions or respond to public comments. Members of the public are urged to address

039concerns at the local school level and with district office staff prior to addressing the board. No person shall initiate charges or complaints against individual individual district employees at a board meeting. Such charges or complaints shall be presented to the superintendent or the board in writing signed by the complainant. Any defamatory or abusive remarks shall be called out of order and the speaker's privilege of addressing the board may be terminated. In order to further student business and our mission, we will limit or eject attendees virtual or in person who disrupt who disrupt the meeting or engage in vulgar or obscene expression. So with that context, we have Mr. Steve Buyers. >> Get to follow cake. This is awesome. Uh, good evening. My name is Steve Buyers. I'm a social studies teacher at Middletown High School and

040the proud president of the Apequinic Education Association. The statement I'm about to read is a call for collaboration. It is a reflection of the experiences of the professionals who work directly with aquinimic students every day. It is a reminder that educator working conditions are student learning conditions and that investing in educators is ultimately an investment in student success. On behalf of nearly 600 educators who have signed this statement, I respectfully submit the following for the board's consideration. To the Aquinic School District and Board of Education, we the undersigned educators of the Aquinic School District respectfully submit the statement in support of meaningful professional time, educator autonomy, and the belief that educator working conditions are student learning conditions. As teachers, counselors, nurses, specialists, related service providers, and other educators, we are committed to providing every student

041with the highest quality educational experience possible. We take great pride in our work and in the relationships we build with students, families, colleagues, and our community. We understand that student success requires careful planning, collaboration, communication, professional learning, and uh continuous reflection. These responsibilities require time. As collective bargaining continues between the association and the district, we believe that professional time is not a luxury. It is a necessity. When educators have adequate time to plan instruction, analyze student data, collaborate with colleagues, communicate with families, complete required documentation, and engage in professional growth, students benefit. When educators are trusted as professionals to exercise judgment over how they use that time, schools become stronger and more effective. Across Delaware and throughout the nation, school districts have found innovative ways to provide educators with meaningful professional time while maintaining high

042expectations and strong student outcomes. We encourage the district to embrace that same spirit of creativity and collaboration rather than relying solely on traditional practices and existing structures. We respectfully ask the administration and the board to prioritize educator time and professional autonomy during the collective bargaining process. We urge district leaders to work collaboratively with educators to identify solutions that preserve existing time protections and create new opportunities for educators perform their professional responsibilities effectively. This is not simply a matter of employee preference. It is a matter of educational quality. The success of our students depends upon the ability of educators to do their best work. Providing educators with time, trust, and professional autonomy necessary to meet student needs is an investment in the future of every child in Apoquin. We stand united in support of our students,

043our schools, and our profession. We respectfully ask that our voices be heard and that meaningful action be taken to ensure that educator time and autonomy remain priorities and ongoing negotiations. Respectfully submitted, the undersigned educators of the Aquinic School District. Thank you and good night. >> Thank you. [applause and cheering] >> [applause] [applause] >> THANK YOU. You ready? >> Cold water and the fun is just beginning. So, uh we will start with our superintendent or continue with our superintendent report. Dr. Burroughs. Thank you. Good evening everyone. I just want to thank everyone for being here tonight. As you're aware, we have uh three student days left in our 25 26 school year. I think I'm safe to say that uh we're not going to have another snow day this year. I did make that mistake one

044year to say we weren't going to have another snow day and we did. Um but that was in March. I think I'm safe to say that now in June. Um just I'll get into my normal report and then um a few extras tonight. We'll start off with we have 15 full-time teaching openings and five full-time PAR openings. At this point, we have filled to date um 602 positions. As we look at the 26 27 school year, we're so far we've filled eight positions. We're currently 234 students over our September 30th count. We're at 13,192 students um in the district currently. This year, um this year's been a challenging year, but what I can say as a district and as a team, we all came together to meet the challenge. at this point last year at

045this meeting last year it was a very stressful um time um with some unknowns at that point the team all came together and everyone on the team I'm talking from from our bus drivers custodians nutrition workers our teachers our par educators um our all of our support staff our administrative assistants our administration our district office if I miss someone. It was not intentional. So, please have all chipped in on this. Our financial outlook is in a much better spot today as a result of a team effort at our 2020 or excuse me, at our June 23rd workshop. I will share with the community and with everyone just what our carryover is at that point. Um but at as of June the 9th, our carryover is looking very positive and it's not due to just one

046person, but I want to thank um Alisa Stewart for her leadership as she navigated through tough times for us. And just thank you to everyone that's been a part of this. Um and I think on June 23rd, it'll be a a matter of celebration um at that point. So, I would I'll end it there and just a precursor to get everyone to tune in on uh June 23rd. But some exciting news, um we do get I feel and I shouldn't say this, we have a lot of success in our district. I think sometimes um we have certain community members that focus on the negative things. Um but I will say we have a lot of things to celebrate the district and a lot of things to be proud of. One of those things was happened

047this past Saturday where we had 98 graduates walk across our stage. One of the things we pride oursel on as as a district is that our kids have choices when they graduate from one of our high schools. We had 98 kids who graduated and had choices on where they went to college, choices on the career they went into, or choices on what job they had in the military. Excited to say we had almost $22 million in scholarship awarded to our 98 graduates. So that's the exact amount is $21,952,220 of scholarships awarded to our graduates. Uh so it was an exciting time. It's my favorite event of the whole year. Um it's what this is about. What I do what I do every day. So thank you everyone. Thank you for the community for your support.

048Um and looking forward to sharing the great news on uh June 23rd. >> Thank you Dr. Bose. Um, Dr. Amanda Connley. All right. Good evening. Um, Amanda Connley here with the um, board policy. This is the first reading um, of board policy 21105. And with me this evening is Terry Taylor, uh, senior coordinator in district operations. Um, and we're going to be walking you through the policy updates uh, for 21105. So, board policy 21105 um, is related to the use of district facilities. And to give some context before we get into the presentation, um what this work looks like, we have over 32,000 requests um come in through this system um on average from year to year with um res with requests from both our buildings and from the outside community. Um on average, we

049have about 92 events per month with outside use of our facilities. And um we have uh Terry under Terry's leadership we work on the um building use process. So we are here this evening. Um the policy was not up for review for another year but like all things we're always reviewing the work that we're doing and we have instituted new software to manage um the the task of 32,000 requests a year. And so with that new software, um, there's new language that we needed to review and bring forward for you this evening. >> Thank you. So, I'm just going to walk you through some of the changes that we've made to the policy. As Dr. Connley said, um, there's not a lot of actual change. It's some wording and some consistency so that we can

050be more um, clear in our processes and more efficient in renting out the spaces. So the first slide here, we're just deleting language that references the old software that we don't use anymore and puts in some um language that can last with us to the future web- based application. So that way if we decide to change anything going forward anyway and then um clarifies our at least two weeks prior to the date of use. Um, terms and conditions now are posted on our district website and are included in every request that someone makes into the system so that they have to agree to them every time that they go in. Okay, next slide. All right. Then um we went right into rates and we wanted to make it clear that rates are reviewed um in

051June of every year and that we have a system in place that determines how regulations how um organizations will have to pay to use our district facilities. Um and there's just a process there and some clarity on if you have to make a change and when a change needs to be made. Um again clarification about how fees are assessed and that's what the next couple things are but that is directly related to our categories. So you go to the next slide Steve we've struck out all the verbiage about how the old CL categories were written and if you go to the next slide we haven't really changed them again it's just um to be clear so people understand what's included and what's not. And then we just changed category three to make it broader. That

052category three is basically all other groups if you don't fall into category one which is our district groups and school groups, government groups and related activities. Category two, nonprofit groups with 75% residency in our district. And it breaks down what they're responsible for paying if they're part of their group and renting our facilities. And then category three is other groups. Um that is when we start including our space fees. So there's no change to that. It's just again it's a wording to be a little bit more concise and clear for everybody. Okay, next slide is then we go into some of the additional services that we provide. Sometimes when people use our facilities, we need to provide custodial services or stage managers. So each of the next following sections again provides a little bit clarity

053on what needs to happen to ma to for you to come in and what kind of fees you may be associated with that. So again, custodial changes, um, what we're always going to charge because a custodian's activity is always required. And how we determine additional custodial charges is this slide. To the next one, kitchen space. There's no change in kitchen space. We typically do not allow use of our kitchen area. And if we do, we we require a kitchen staff to be there. Use of our auditorium and stage. Again, we're changing the name of a stage manager to an AV operator because stage manager is a little too specific. AV operator, that person needs to be there and do a lot of things when someone's using our theaters or facilities. So again, just how we

054would determine hours and charges for those areas. And go next slide, Steve. Then the final section is the use of our fields. Um we kind of did uh strike out all of this because we wanted to be broader and and refer to it now as our outdoor recreational areas, not just our fields because we have lots of playgrounds and open spaces that also we welcome the community to use. So, we wanted it to be broader and we wanted to focus on how we want the spaces to be treated as opposed to the things that we didn't want you to do. So, the new way it's written kind of just says that we ask that you please use our facilities for the purpose that are intended and that you leave them in proper order and again

055that this community is welcome to use them if they're not being used by us in advance. And it also kind of checks off there a little bit of a use of our equipment. So if we have equipment in our outdoor spaces, how we expect that to be used. And next slide. That's it. Any questions? >> So this is the first reading. So you'll come back next month for a second reading and a vote. Correct. >> We will come back next month for the second reading and then we're back for a third time in August for the vote. This is June. Yes. So we'll be back in August. where what's the plan around communicating these changes to organizations that you have like longstanding relationships with? So like obviously like we see the striketh through we are

056being made aware of the changes. What's the plan for communicating those changes to said organizations? >> So we have a communication structure in place already as we've transitioned to um the new master library system. So Vicky Stealth Fox who um has that direct relationship with our organization has communicated the changes with uh the new reservation system this year and she'll continue that um communication and then what any changes that we make is also updated through that reservation system. So she'll work to make sure that the groups especially the groups that we have long-standing relationships with get proactive communication from us and then we also will follow up in writing through the master library system. >> Okay. Thank you. Any other questions? >> I'm sorry. Could you repeat your question? >> Provide the fee schedule in

057your next >> Yes, we can pres provide our um current fee schedule as well as any um recommendations. >> I'm sure it's going to be attached to this when it goes to the website. >> Yes, it's located on um our website and it's located on our in within master library. So, all the um district website's the landing page for the community to access all of the terms and conditions and then for them to register to be a user in our master library system. >> Thank you. >> You're welcome. >> Any other questions from the board? >> Okay. Thank you. >> All right. Thank you, Miss Stewart. Oh, she's already up there. Good evening board members. Um I'm presenting tonight our policy. It's actually two policies I will be presenting. Um both of these policies were

058last reviewed in 2022. So this will be the first read. Um and as stated with the prior um with Dr. Amanda with her policy, the policy will come back for a second read and then after that month a third read. Right. So the first policy is policy 5103. Next slide. This policy um is titled insurance. And so as you will look that um it was this policy in particular was last reviewed in 2020 2022. Next slide Steve essentially there are no changes to this policy after I have reviewed it concerning the insurance what I have seen um essentially that's what we have been doing uh since with me starting. So essentially this has been reviewed should there be any changes. Um I would definitely be sure to bring this forth but there's really no policy

059change requests um after my review that I bring forth but I would welcome any suggestions that the board may want me to go back and review and include. But the gist of that this policy just basically states the board of education shall purchase this the type and amount of insurance necessary to protect itself as a corporate body, its individual members, its appointed officers and its employees from financial loss arising out of any claim demand suit or other judgment by reason of alleged negligence or other act resulting in property damage within or outside school buildings or accident injury to any person while the insured are discharged. charging duties within the scope of their employment or assignment or under the direction of the board of education. Those who duties those whose duties require handling substantial amounts of

060money shall be bonded appropriately. And I believe that is all for this policy. Um any questions or concerns? >> I just one um what do you deem a substantial amount of money? I mean, is that number anywhere or is that just >> No, that was just something in in the policy that was already written. So, I'm not sure on that, but I can look into it. >> Maybe you could come up with a >> I don't know if that's appropriate. Come up with a number. Okay. >> Um so, we have more clarity on when that person should be bombed. >> Okay, I can do that. Thank you. >> Any other questions or comments from the board? Okay. Thank you, Mr. Higgins. You're going to review the next policy related to school meal prices. So this

061is policy 5106. As Dr. Toshiba stated, this is school mail prices. Again, um this was a policy that was last reviewed in 2022. So bringing it forth to the board for review. Next slide. Essentially, this policy is a oneliner. Um the board of education will adopt school lunch and breakfast prices. Um, and that's pretty much what entails the policy. I did touch base with um, Dr. Amanda and Lauren to get their input if they would um, like me to bring anything forth, but nothing at this time. Again, should something change is more so like we're going through review of the finance policy. Should something change, I can definitely come back and make that change. Or if you all as a board want me to consider something to bring back to add, I can do that

062as well. Any questions or comments from the board on policy 5106? >> I'm sorry. >> Oh, you make the first reading. It should be 5106. >> You got that, Miss Stewart? >> I heard something with the headliner. I'm sorry. >> Okay, >> we'll show you what you >> Thank you. >> For the purpose of the public, it's just um the policy number was not noted 5103 and it's actually 5106. That is the recommendation from the board at this time. So that's all. But as far as the >> the language, no suggestions from the board at this time. >> Okay. Thank you. >> Um next report we have Mr. Hopkins construction update. All right, ready is pretty well wrapped up at this point. You can see the side. I talk loud enough it would work. Anyway,

063>> reading's wrapped up. I mean, even this area here now is sided today. So, this whole area is green at this point. We're kind of going to move the fence back and around it a little bit so they can take student photos on Thursday for graduation. So, they're going to take their student pictures out here at at at the outdoor classroom for for the first graduating class out of this area. So, it's gonna be pretty neat that way. >> Other than that, the school's pretty well done. Other than the building, we're going to go here for a maintenance building. >> Go ahead, Steve. Summit campus. This is Summit Campus coming in. This is the main road coming in this way as we come out the construction site. This is the back loop road that comes

064around the back of the high school and what will be the middle school. Right now, they're they're doing all the light pole bases are coming around this side here. They've got the infrastructure in and all the conduit running to those poles, moving in that direction. >> [clears throat] >> This is kind of the truck wash station. As they come back off of the site, rather than dragging dirt out to the road, they come through here. There's a wash station here that washes the trucks off. Good, Steve. The wash station's here. This is more of a just a lay down area for the piping and structures here. All the infrastructure in the road is is pushing around. This is the loop road that's going to come around the front of the school this way. This is

065the front entrance in. Go ahead, Steve. This is the high school pad that's coming. The our construction trailer is here. The road loops around the back and they're cutting this in. So, the stone base is in for the road coming around the back of the school. Now, this is going to be the high school pad. So, this will start to be the high school on this side, the performing arts center. The middle school will drop in here. You kind of see in that same area here, this is one of our storm water management areas where you have what we call storm tech. You can see it here. It's these yellow cells that come in. It's all gets covered and the storm water flows into it and it and it dissipates underground so we don't have

066these ponds all over we have to maintain. So this is one of the storm water management areas. There's one here and there's going to be another one on this side over here. But they put these cells in. Steve, back up one for a second. They put these cells in and then they covered all with stone and they cover that up. This will be underneath the football field. This will be underneath the parking lot. The one over here will be underneath the parking lot. So we're not losing any space to a pond either on a tight space anyway. Good. See, this is the back looking back here. This will be a soft or a baseball field here and a utility field here. And this is kind of the back side of the property. Your baseball fields

067and your other fields in your fieldhouse will all be up in this area here. Good, Steve. This is looking back. This is an area we were using for mining. We're taking the dirt out of here and running it off of the pad here. It's what's called structural fill. It compacts down really hard. It's not top soil. and it compacts down and that's what you pour your pad on here. So, they're mining out of this location, dropping it here, doing the same thing on this side, try dropping it in that location there. This is that storm techch area here. Good Steve, just another area. So, you see they're starting to fill this in with stone now. So, so this is all completed at this point, but as they come across, they put stone underneath the cells

068down and stone on top. This is our pad coming around. This this is the high part. It starts to level out and get a little lower over here. So, it'll speed up when we get to this side here. This is our road that's all cut in coming around to the back of the building and stabilized. This is the storm track area that I talked about a few moments ago. We put the stone base down first, then the cells come on top and then they fill it up. That's the process for the cells. And that's it completed out. Stones over the top. These are the vents you can come down, you check, and then we sweep it out every year or so. This is kind of one of the areas where they're trenching in. They use

069this box to protect the men while they're in the hole so the walls don't cave in on them. So, they'll come down this ladder, work in this area, and what kind of protects them is this box out right here. Keeps the keeps the workers safer working. That's kind of what I mean right there. Green Giant. Green Giants in the design side right now. We're just working on here. We got Artisian in. We're going to run the sewer down this side. This is Abby Creek development that's well moving here. Chapel Creek here. We're going to show you some schematic designs here in just a little while of kind of what we're looking at. But we've got the process of design started. You know, we're looking to move forward into the uh actual phases of design, construction,

070and then bidding in early spring, hopefully February. Just another look back out at at the project here. Looking out. This is another development here. This this will be your road in. This is coming off this is hopefully a future ECC on the site. We've saved enough territory for that. But this will be the entrance in off of Green Giant Road. We'll widen that road and connect up with the two projects from Apple or Abby Creek and Chapel Creek. This comes in for the bus loop. They'll loop it around the back and then pull the buses in here and then go right back out that same way for student safety. For drop off, they come in this way, loop around, drop off, and they go back out this way. So, it keeps the students and and

071then the riders away from the buses. >> Yeah, Steve, any questions? >> We are on time and on budget. >> I was just gonna say we're going to keep [laughter] tradition, Keith. >> You beat me to it. >> Go ahead, Mr. Higgin. Uh I'm just wondering um as far as the summit campus, do you ever get bids in official bids come in from contractors about doing that work yet or >> we did >> is that the >> higher or lower than anticipated? >> It came in probably about 9 million almost 10 million under our budget or or our estimate I'll say. >> Okay. >> You know, you know, so we came in we had it about 293. It came in about 283. >> You know, so we had good numbers. [clears throat] Just something to

072remember on those bids, as I shared a few months ago, um about the funding formula not meeting the needs of current construction. Uh we're we need about $47 million for all three of these projects um that are short of what the funding formula provides. There's not a person in state government that doesn't know we have this need. I've talked to the governor. I've talked to uh the people in charge that are the chairs of the bond bill. I've talked to our local legislators. Um, I've talked to the head of office managed budget. Um, so they're tired of hearing from me. [clears throat] They know when they see me what I'm going to say to them. Um, so we're just at a point now we're waiting to see if this money is put in the bond

073bill. If it's not [clears throat] put in the bond bill, then we have some decisions we're going to have to make. Like 47 million isn't value engineering. You're not cutting that out of a project. So, we're looking forward to hearing great news. >> Okay. Thank you, Dr. Bros. >> One more. >> Anything else? Oh, go ahead, Mr. >> Can you just briefly explain the funding formula? Um, in a nutshell about we talk about this gap. Um, from what I understand, uh, there's a need. The need is, uh, is, uh, told by the state. what we need to do, how we need it, with the size, the square footage. Yep. >> What you need to build. >> Yep. >> Um >> and then they have their own formula that says this is how much that's going

074to cost. >> And you since 2020 >> 23 >> February 23 >> said along with other folks that formula >> has never worked. It never did work in any other project right in the county >> or in the state >> in the state. Um and every other project in the state that that did not work, they did um they they did what they called market pressure funding to fill that gap. >> Correct. >> This is the only time and the first time in the state from my knowledge, correct me if I'm wrong, that that um market pressure funding that fills that gap has not been given to a project, a capital project in the state. >> Not would be the first time. Not that they're not going to do it and they may come through,

075right? So, I don't want to say they won't, but it's, you know, we're getting on the the the 11th hour here. >> Yeah. This formula has been broken since 2018. And every project that came out of the state that went for a CN through a CN process, you know, you you go for your CN and they approve it based off of what they call construction formula and and it's based off your square foot. They tell you how many dollars per square foot you can have and they tell you the size of the school. So, that formula is supposed to provide you the whole school, site work, everything all all in. And that formula's been busted for since 2018. They tried to fix it a little bit. It didn't really work. And and they're just not

076capturing it all correctly. You know, the whole project costs. And we brought that to their attention in 23 to say this isn't enough money to build the school. You know, we have the real number here. What would you like us to do? And and would we give you the real number or you going to use the construction formula? They said, use the construction formula. Put that into us with a CN and then we'll we'll we'll back fill what you need through market pressure. Then after the fact, they put in epilog language that they weren't going to give market pressure money after we had already been told how to handle it. And and all the way through the process, they said, "No, no, you're okay." And it wasn't until June of uh 24 that we found

077out that they had excluded us from market pressure. And it's not market pressure, you know, which is what Matt and I have been trying to explain to them. It's not market pressure money. It's a broken construction formula. Market, the market's not driving these numbers. It's not the market. It's not any market influence. It's a bad construction formula that doesn't capture the cost of construction. That's the reality. >> And I and I want to just say the last two projects, high school projects that were built in the state required 72 and 76 million of market pressure money. We're asking for 47 million for three schools. >> We value engineer this thing to high >> and again from my own clarity, the size and the scope of the of the structures are determined by the state. >>

078Correct. So, that's not the argument. The argument isn't, oh, you're building another huge, you know, what, how, whatever adjective you want to use. Um, the district is building what the state told them they need as far as square footage. In fact, I think you're under square footage in the summit project. >> We're we're right there at it. I mean, thank you for But anyway, not over it. >> No, no, no, no. We're we're the issue. The issue isn't well, you build too big of a school. That's the size school that the state had >> that's that's what we were told we were allowed to build with the funds that we had >> and and and the construction dollars that they allowed us. >> Well, they tell you it's based on number of students you have.

079So So they say we're building for 1,600 high school students. They say you can build this many this how many square feet you need for 1600600 high school students and a thousand student middle school. this is how many square feet you need. And so we're in that square footage number. We need a high school for 1,600 kids, not for 900 kids. >> Correct. >> Yeah. And I think that's where comparison to other districts isn't relevant because no other district is experiencing the growth that we are experiencing. Right. So as we try to respond to the demand, we're like in this conundrum of trying to respond to the demand, being told what we need, and then not it not being funded on the back end. Right? So it's it truly is a recipe for disaster. And

080so to Dr. Bro's point, hopefully we'll get some good news soon. Um, but keeping with tradition, we are on time and on budget, right? >> All of our budget numbers are correct at this point. Yes, we are. >> Thank you. >> Anything else from the board? Okay. Um, thank you, Mr. Hopkins. So, moving right along to board comments. Um, in no particular order, I'll go I'll yield to Mr. Higgins. >> Thank you. Um, so first I want to acknowledge um our board members. Again, thank you for your service, you and Richard. Uh, I could say a few kind words about Richard. I could go on, but um, generally a a good guy and um, you know, taught me a lot and always had uh, great input. Um, so great to see so many recognitions today.

081I mean, every every month um, with the kids that come through here are amazing. Um, can't forget about Aquacoonic High School winning the state championship uh on the on Sunday. Somebody had to win. It was them versus Odessa, but uh our my amado for my kids won. So, go Jags. And congratulations to both teams on making it to the states. Um, I was able to attend two of the award ceremonies uh this year and again great to see so many kids receive so many awards and recognizing our our our top uh students as far as GPA. Uh I wasn't able to make odesses because I was at a a DSBA meeting which is the the state board association legislation meeting where we talk about all the different bills and legislation that's going through legislator this

082month and it's very active. I won't get in the middle of it but anybody wants to know anything about it just let me know. Um, plus, um, again, thank you to Miss Stewart, um, for all the work that they have done and she has done throughout the year and it and to everybody else in her school district that has, you know, towed the line and and made the sacrifices. Um, I think that was fantastic. And lastly, I'll end with uh tomorrow morning uh we'll be I'll be at board uh bagels with a board member at 8:30 uh with um Manhattan Bagel. I it's with a board member member, not from a board member. So, if you'd like to come on by, buy your own bagel. Um I'll be there for any answers or questions or

083lead you in directions to get the answers if you have any questions. Uh like I am once a month every Wednesday. It's all I got. >> Thank you, Mr. Higgins. Mr. Abrams. Um, just a few things tonight. As we begin the process of wrapping up the school year, I just want to thank everybody who's working on committees for our district, helping make it the best that it can be. Just echo the thoughts on Saturday. We had 98 students graduate. I believe it's the best day of the year for us. Um, all our kids can graduate and move on. I'd also like to take a moment to thank uh to congratulate Miss Mumford and Miss Brener on their recent election to the upcoming school board. >> [clears throat] >> You know, as a board member, we

084rely on professionals to give us sound data that is unbiased and every once in a while they get it wrong. As we've gone through this election campaign, I fear we have more work that needs to be done. Over the last year, I believe our district was has been extremely transparent as possible with our community regarding our financial position and a path moving forward. We have discussed the state auditor's report. The independent findings that we shared prior to the auditor's report throughout this campaign season inaccuracies have been many and wild regarding the district's financial position. [clears throat] We do not deny that budgeting and forecasting errors did occur. The carryover balance was less than anticipated due to critical budgeting errors that were identified as missing one payroll cycle, summer school expenses. We also had higher than

085uh utility cost, increased special education population, and of course our natural teacher shortage and the lack of tax revenue during reassessment. The most critical thing that we have said since the beginning which had failed to come through during this campaign was that there is money missing. There is absolutely no money missing. None. The district took immediate action. U we've welcomed a new finance director. They've added more people to the financial advisory committee. They've implemented fiscally conservative monetary policy, which means they went in austerity mode. Everything was reviewed three or four times before any expenses were made. We've also implemented a new financial reporting system that you can see at our at our last few meetings. Our financial position still is and remains serious, but we just cannot continue to let the rumors out there that

086money is missing. No money is missing. He sat down with the candidates, explained everything that was that happened, showed them all the reports, gave them everything, offered I personally offered as much time as anybody needed to get their head around the financial situation our district encountered. So my message is people will say anything to get elected. It just doesn't make it true. There is no money missing. You know, George Washington said to Alexander Hamilton, "Winning is easy. Governing is hard. There is no money missing." Lastly, tonight, Mr. Forsen is not here. I'd be just remiss if I didn't say just a few things about his time on the board. As Miss Dit did, I believe Richard challenged this district in his own ways. Richard challenged the district on the financial side. Richard was a true

087conservative when it came to fiscal matters for this district. He challenged district office, the finance department at all times when we talked about spending money, referendum time, but he did put the students of this district ahead of some of his own ideas. Our district has the lowest tax rate. Our district has the lowest tax rate in the state while we have the second most amount of students. Richard was a big driver in that. Richard also worked with us to make the district student course catalog better than it was originally. He worked tirelessly to help APO navigate legal issues during constructions. I've had the pleasure of working with Mr. Forson since 2011. Richard was tough but fair. He did not hide from what he thought. He did not hide from what he wanted to say, even

088if it was unpopular. As with Miss Dit's service, this district is in better place because of Richard's service. Thank you. >> Thank you, Mr. Abrams. Mr. to it. >> A [clears throat] lot has already been stated that I wanted to say um but again I just want to congratulate the 9 and8 students that graduated from aquinimic school district. I really do believe we are the best district public school in the state. Um congrats on getting 22 an estimated of $22 million in scholarships. That is phenomenal. So that's who my comment is to to our students and to the teachers too. So thank you. Thank you, Miss Dit. Um yes, similar. So much of what I was going to say has already been said, but I did just want to acknowledge um the leadership at Old

089State. Uh Mr. Early in particular, uh he uh Dr. Burrows and I had an opportunity to tour through um Old State last week and Mr. early led us through that tour. Um, and so I just wanted to shout him out. Thank you for your time uh that day. And then last Friday I had an opportunity to participate in the awards ceremony at Kwellsbridge uh for the seventh graders. And so that was a really good time to have them acknowledged. Um we were there maybe a couple hours or so. So shout out to Mrs. Marmallejo and the entire seventh grade uh leadership team um at Kwells Bridge. And then um just kind of reiterating what my fellow board members have already said, we really um enjoyed ourselves on Saturday um as 98 students walked across the

090stage and shook our hands and we congratulated them um on a job well done. And then lastly, I also would like to welcome our new board members, Mrs. Brener and Mrs. Mford um as they get as they gear up um to be sworn in next month uh and begin to serve in their roles as the newest board members here in Apoquin. And then lastly, similar to Mr. Abrams, I would be remissed if I didn't acknowledge uh Mr. Forest's efforts and his work and his commitment to uh the board. And one comment in particular that I did just want to reiterate that Dr. Bros actually said is that Mr. Forest did um would always kind of get behind the message. He would certainly challenge you, debate you, try to convince you, persuade you to see it

091his way, but ultimately if it wasn't his way, he still was very supportive and what we were trying to accomplish um as a board. And so for that, I will always uh be thankful for his commitment and his efforts uh to the board as he has served over the past uh 15 years. And so with that, I will conclude um my board comments and we will move directly into old business which we have noted here is our superintendent evaluation tool and so we are not prepared to take a vote on the superintendent evaluation tool at this time. Uh we will be tableabling this until our June 23rd meeting. I would like to say for the uh for the purpose of the public understanding, we have been through I think at least four iterations of this

092evaluation tool and so we are near final and we plan to bring that forward as a final document for a vote during our June 23rd meeting and it will be adopted as such. And so I just want to um state that from the perspective of the board that for today's business it's tabled but we will bring it to um a close if you will for a vote uh on June 23rd. Any questions or comments from the board related to old business? Hearing none, I'll move on to new business. Um and so we have the May 12th uh 2026 board of education meeting minutes. Uh the chair will entertain a motion. >> Madame vice president, I a motion to uh approve the May 20 the May 12th, 2026 board of education meeting as presented. >> Second.

093>> Oh, I'm sorry. Motion by Mr. Higgins, seconded by Miss Dit. Um what do we have next? Mrs. Stewart. >> Oh, I'm sorry. >> Go ahead. All in favor? I >> I any >> I'm about. >> Do you want to sit here? [laughter] Any opposed? >> Hearing none. Motion passes. Mrs. Stewart. >> Right. Good evening again, board members. I'm bringing before you the conversion of bond anticipate note anticipation note to bonds um for your approval. On October the 7, 2025, the Appin School District Board of Education approved issuance of a bond anticipation note to the state for 5,57,741 at 4.09% 09% peranom for the fisc year 26 capital improvements program which includes the local share of a new middle school and high school at summit campus and subsequent conversion to 20-year bonds at a rate

094to be set by the state at the time of the state bond sale. The state bond sale was held on May 13, 2026, which included our bonds sold at an interest rate of 3.77% peranom. administration requests the board's approval to convert the bond anticipation note approved in October to bonds issued to the state as presented. >> The chair will entertain a motion. >> Madame vice president, I uh I a motion to uh approve the conversion of bond anticipation note. >> I'll second to the bonds for approval. Add that to the motion. >> Thank you. >> Motion by Mr. Mr. Higgins, second by U. Mr. Abrams. All in favor? >> I. >> Any opposed? The motion passes. [snorts] All right. Tonight I bring before you the April 2026 revenue and expenditure report. And so essentially this

095report is the all-inclusive report that has been implemented. It includes the revenues, expenditures and as well as the internal accounts even though internal accounts still goes through a separate approval. Next slide. All right, we'll start with our discretionary cash flow. This is an internal report that we that helps us keep pulse on our discretionary cash flow. You will see here we have an end of month balance of about 20 million for April. Um if looking at the overall comparison from prior year um month expenditures, we're about down to 774,000. Um but the difference in end of month balance, we're about 6 million up from the prior year. Next slide. And then our local salary tracker, that is an internal report, another internal report that helps us keep a pulse on our salary tracking. Um this

096includes our local salaries, tuition tax, and prek tuition. You will see here as of April we have expended about $5.6 million. The first payroll um in April included the Aea 20.21 IEP hours. Um and so that was from November 25 to February of 26. And then we have a salary comparison review that essentially compares um 21 pays or the amount of pays that we're at to 21 pays of the prior month, prior year. And then also comparing 21 pays of the current year to 26 pays overall. So when comparing from 21 pays of this current year to 21 plays of the prior year, we're about at 82.4% expended in payroll. And then comparing to overall 26 pays from last year to the 21 pays this year, we're about 102%. So pretty much showing that 2%

097increase. >> Um you're the 102 the increase of the 2.1%. Does that track with the the increase in salaries or >> Yes. >> Okay. >> Yes. >> Next slide. All right. Going into our revenues, you will see here our property tax revenue receipts and for April we received about $782,000. As we continue with our revenues, the next slide. Um this includes our discretionary revenue, non-discretionary revenue and other revenues as um presented for April 2026 broken down by state and local. Also you will see the comments on the side. Those are the reports internal reports that we use to retrieve this information. Next slide. So expenditures this is for um April um and in collaboration with Dr. Toshiba um taking the idea of breaking down what the total amount of our funding is. So as you

098all know our budget total budget is about $329 million. However, that is comprised of our discretionary funding, non-discretionary funding, tuition tax, capital debt service, nutrition services, and federal funding. So this snapshot breaks it down by each of those funding sources. It starts with what we have budgeted for that amount, what has been encumbered to date, which is purchase orders that have been processed, setting aside um potential expenditures that will be expended in the future. Then expenditure column that basically outlines what has been expended to date as of April, the end of April. And then the remaining balance. So that first line, the discretionary line as you will see essentially is budget 79.2 million, but we have a remaining balance about 17.3. you can see what has been expended in between that time. And so that

099is what has been done for all the other funding sources that make up the full funding source um our full budget for aquin school district. Next slide. All right. And this is our internal accounts. Essentially this is a report that is pulled from our school funds online database in which our internal accounts are ran through. This gives you what their balance was at the beginning of the month, what has been expended and received, and it gives you an ending balance. Again, this is also um approved separately, but it's included in this report. Again, because this this is a all-inclusive report. Um please note that in the backup, we still process internal account reconciliation. So, that is processed monthly. Next slide. Here is our fund balance projections at April 2026. essentially these fund balance projections aligns

100with the most recent um quarter 4 I believe it was the monthly the financial position report that we had to submit to um Delaware of educa department of education um Delaware department of education. So you will see here where that amount has shifted to um a carryover balance that will net of any payroll and our budget amendment that was processed due to the me account about about 144,000 and then when we get to tuition tax that's going to be about 11,000 um ending in tuition tax. Next slide. So this slide is just items to note uh for the for the board and items to note just going forward when we're looking at our financial situation as of April 2026. Um we uh basically have implemented a stop spend date as of May 1st. And so

101essentially at that time all spending will stop unless it's grant or internal funds related. normal monthly billings do still occur and other expenditures that are related to state appropriations that have that do not allow carryover. What do I mean by that? If there is a state appropriation that has an end date of 6:30, 2026 and that's the hard date, there's no carryover, that means that end date is not going to be extended to let's just say September 30th, 2026. So, in a case like that, um we allow continued spending to ensure that we're utilizing all of the funds that's been allotted to us. Um and during this time there will be close monitoring that will be implemented to the budget. There's still going to be budget cleanup um budget reconciliation making sure that uh expenditures

102are allotted in the appropriate places. Um but this will also help us with year end recon reconciliation review of the potential carryover and reserves and address any pending urgent needs and working closely with the superintendent to maintain consistent monitoring and communication on year end. That is all for the April 2026 monthly financial report. I am requesting board approval for this report and also to note AFC did not warrant any issues with this report and they also have approved. >> Sounds good. Thank you. Thank you for the uh adjustments under the operating unit program expenditure summary report. Um I appreciate the detail. Um I know we had lots of dialogue around that slide, so I appreciate that. Um the board the chair will entertain a motion. >> Question. >> Yeah. >> So I notic in the

103original budget uh your carryover was less than it is now. Um sign I mean this is significantly more than it was even though that's not significant. Um do you I know you know June. And I know you're not going to talk about June because you just I mean May uh you already have those numbers, but do you foresee this the carryover just becoming a a a larger number or are you you pretty close to uh still this the 144? >> The superintendent can respond to that. >> Dr. B, >> we Yes, we do anticipate that number being larger. Just to remember this takes in account that our revenue is what we project our revenue to be and that we're expending all of our expenditures what was budgeted. So >> I was looking for a number.

104I was making sure that we're [clears throat] going in the right direction. We're not going to have a snowstorm. >> Correct. >> But um >> love sunshine else may have >> right >> knock on wood. >> Okay. >> Any other questions or comments from the board [clears throat] hearing? None. And the chair will entertain a motion. >> Madame, vice president, I motion to approve the April 2026 revenue and expendure report. >> Second. >> Motion u by Mr. Higgins, second by Miss Dit. Any questions or comments? Hearing none. All in favor? >> I. >> None opposed. The motion passes. Um [clears throat] Mrs. Stewart, uh inter internal accounts report for approval. Yes. So, this report, as I stated, was included in the monthly revenue and expenditure report, the all-inclusive report, but we still bring it forth

105for approval. Just to note, FAC did not see any issues with the internal accounts and hence has approved the internal counts report. So, I am requesting board approval for the internal counts report for April 2026. >> Thank you. The chair will entertain a motion. Madame Vice President, I make a motion to approve the April 2026 internal accounts report for approval as presented. >> Second. >> Um first um motion made by uh Mr. Abram and seconded by Mr. Dit. Any questions or comments? Hearing none. All in favor? >> None opposed. The motion passes. Mrs. Macintosh trap transportation update. Thank you, Mrs. Stewart. You're welcome. >> Good evening. Um, Amanda Connley and I am here tonight with uh Stacy Macintosh, our supervisor of transportation and we are here this evening with a transportation update and recommendation. >>

106All right. What is uh why am I here? Our current situation uh one of our bus contractors, Lynwood, has uh advised us that they're going out of business. They currently hold 16 bus contracts, which means we have to retain them. Um the Department of Education has already approved this getting our the buses that are needed. We just need the board approval. Next slide. So, how do we get here? Just a little bit of history. I've shared this prior. So, prior to 22, we were all fully contracted um in APO. Um so, in 22, the board finally approved us to start our own buses and get into the bus business. They approved for eight. We ended that school year with 31. It was pretty significant increase. And that was because of the growth, but mostly because

107of the shortage from the contractors. Um since 22, we've grown to 58 contracts. That's what we're ending this school year with. So that that means 58 buses for Appo is on the road daily. Uh we have 68 buses in total. The extras are used for our athletic trips and things of that nature and spares if they're in the shop. Uh we we have 61 full-time drivers, three part-time, and 36 attendants. Next slide. So, this is just um just a little bit of back history uh in case anybody wanted to know what the previous numbers were. As you can see, Lynwood was the the contractor that decreased over the years. Um pretty significant. Um what you don't see prior is when they first started and they brought bought uh McCain, they uh they had 42 contracts

108with us. So in the five years that they ran, they've returned 26. So we've been absorbing that and prior to our district operation, the con the other contractors were absorbing it, but then they just could not retain the staff. Next slide. Back to Okay. So, with um the need for the district to retain these 16 contracts, we have been working closely um both with the Delaware Department of Education and with Miss Stewart as she is forecasting and projecting into um next fiscal year with what the impact will be for the transportation budget um and our local budget overall for the school district. So, Delaware Department of Education does cover the cost for the new bus for the district. And as a district, we are then responsible for the add-ons um with local transportation funds. So,

109an example of that would be the camera system um camera systems that we install on our local buses as well as other type safety features. On average, we're looking at about $8,000 um per bus when we look at the add-ons that we are responsible for locally. Uh for employee costs, those are for the most part reimbured by Delaware Department of Education. The Delaware Department of Ed um does cover the 2550 per hour and OEC's and then our salaries 2706 per hour. That additional $1.56 is covered by the APO transportation budget. And um as I shared, we are currently working with Miss Stewart um to make sure that these 16 contracts that we're retaining are um accounted for within the budget for FY27. >> Um I have a question. >> Sure. >> I'm not um Steve,

110can you take us back a slide? >> So we're talking about Lynwood and you said that the contractor buses fluctuated year-over-year, but we see the same number. Is it supposed to is it supposed to be 16? >> I gave you the data from prior I'm sorry. >> 22. >> I'm so used to I'm like Keith. I don't need the microphone. I always think um so prior to 22. That's the data that I shared with you. So you don't see that. That's not there. So the data I'm giving you was only when we became district running and moving forward. But prior to 22 is when Lynwood returned um the the other contracts. It's just not there. >> So, the 16 yearover-year 22 through current is >> they've been able they've been able to to hang tight

111there. Yes. >> But prior to that is what just that's what made us get into the bus business basically. >> Okay. >> Yes. >> All right. I I just wanted to make sure that >> I think we were interpreting those numbers correctly. Mr. Were you going to say something >> that I'm Yes, that was exactly >> I apologize. I shouldn't have given you data that wasn't there. 16 is the number that you're losing this year. >> That is correct. That is correct. >> Okay. >> Go ahead. We'll jump back to your recommendation. >> Yes. So, the recommendation this evening is um for approval to add an additional 16 buses for the 2026 2027 school year and coverage for those 16 contracts uh returned from our contractor. Delaware Department of Education has already approved this pending

112APquin School District Board of Education approval. >> Thank you. >> So any questions? >> Had a question. Um, did did I hear you right to say that of the 16 contracts we're going to get, they're going to buy brand new buses and then and I'm trying to remember originally when Forston's fleet got underway. If we acquired over 75 buses, then we had to have >> Was there a stipulation if we ever got to 75 buses we had? There's something in my head that >> just that I need a busy yard. No, it's a joke. >> No, no, I'm But something >> No, I apologize. I know you're being serious. >> Yeah, but No, but something just said if we ever hit 75 buses, and Richard said there's no way in hell we'll get 75 buses,

113but I think we're all going to almost be there. Was there a requirement that if we got to 75 buses? >> No, there is not. >> No, there's not. Okay. >> There is not. >> No, that's fine. >> No. Okay. >> So, there's no relevance to 75, Mr. Abrams. >> No, I I could have sworn there was something we had to do without this. >> I just believe um Mr. Abrams that we felt as though we were not going to grow this large this fast. >> Okay. >> So, I think it was >> we need a bus lot that we do need. >> Mr. Forson and I we did a little sarcasm. I think that that's what that was at that time. Yeah. >> Okay. That's I just remember Okay. >> Yeah. >> We don't

114need another mis message out there. So, [laughter] >> okay. U any other questions, comments from the board? Oh, go ahead. Mr. >> Comment. Um, piggy back in on the conversation, it's not just the growth, right? Um, I think this we've had problems in the past [snorts] where kids weren't getting picked up because uh contracts were just not being fulfilled. Uh, the state said that we can't have that statewide, right? So they implemented their own policy that um pretty much gradually gets us to where we are where probably in five, four or five years all of our buses or all your the district's buses are going to be owned by the district. Um so that's not on you, that's not on the district. That's not you know not not seeing what's going to happen. And it's

115just state policy that that is, you know, my opinion, I think more than my opinion, is putting us where we are or putting us where we are. Uh and to your other point, um a bus lot. Um I know that we don't the district doesn't have the money for a bus lot, but um there's probably needs to be a plan to have a bus lot. Um I don't want to spend money. I don't like spending money, but I can't imagine all of the fumes and all the other things that go with buses at our school parking lots. Um, and other safety issues that may occur. So, I just think that [clears throat] as a board, as a district, that's something we really need to look at. Um, >> oh, next presentation. >> Sorry. >> Don't

116want to spoil that. All right. I'm good. >> I'm good. >> So, is the state eating the full amount plus the $1.56 or are we eating that? The $1.56 the >> So, we are >> 56 is on us. Yes. >> So, them going out of business cost us more money. >> Well, ultimately we No, ultimately we save when you look at it contractwise. >> Um >> Yeah. Okay. >> But that's a little I >> that's in Miss Stewart's wheelhouse. >> Yeah. I don't think it's anybody's fault, but I don't think you're going to be saving money on buses. My opinion, I think writing a check to a contractor is would be a lot cheaper. That's not on you. That's not on the district. That's on the state, but that's my opinion. We'll see. Right. >>

117Just like the five buses, >> Madam Vice President. >> Oh, go ahead. Thank you. >> I'll make a motion to approve the transportation update for approval. >> Second. Um motion by Mr. Abrams, second by uh Mr. Higgins. Any questions or comments? Hearing none. All in favor? >> I. >> None opposed. The motion passes. We move on to our 10-year building plan for approval. Dr. Burroughs. >> Good evening. >> So, we have the opportunity tonight. This will be our third 10-year comprehensive building plan. As we look at, we're going to review a little history here and then get into what we're looking at in the future. Um, this uh comprehensive building plan was put together by our building utilization committee. Our building utilization committee is made up of community members, administrators, other stakeholders, um, Mr. Hopkins

118and myself. So, it's hard. We try to make this as big as possible, but here's the history of our construction. It's hard to believe in 1997, Middletown High School was the new high school in the district. As you can see, um we as a district have had the most school construction in the state um in that period of time. So, we're very thankful for uh the Department of Education and our legislators and supporting us and meeting our needs. The last school that we had built um which was well overdue was Lewis L. Reading Middle School. I want to just say in my um 15 years as superintendent, we've uh have done 11 we've built 11 schools. Nine of those brand new schools and two of them Reading and Ever Meredith uh rebuilds. So you can

119see up there this the projections done by Wilco Map. Um hopefully your eyes are better than I am. Mine are, but and uh you're looking at population growth by 2035. Uh 107 over 107,000 students or excuse me community members at that point in the milit area. I just saw something the other day where they're projecting like 35,000 houses in our area in the next 10 years. So as I mentioned, this is our third plan. Our original plan was 2006 through 2016. Uh we're just completing our 2016 2026 plan and tonight we're going to propose our 2026 through 2036 plan. So the first 10-year plan kind of walk through this the first phase of that we um new elementary school we did towns in elementary renovations were part of that. I'll be lost elementary renovations, a

120kitchen renovation at what is now the Appleo preschool center and um we built Towns and Early Childhood Center. So what actually got completed from that was Towns and Early Childhood Center got completed in 2008. Bunker Hill Elementary was completed in 2009. We also um in that 2006 uh got the property out where Abu Makai and Bunker Hill is. I'll be los renovations were completed in 2011. The kitchen was completed in 2011 and towns and elementary renovations were completed in 2014. Phase two was a new high school, a new early childhood center, a new middle school, and another new elementary school. What ended up being built and approved was uh Spring Meadow Early Childhood Center um in 2012, Old State Elementary School in 2012, and we also purchased the land uh for the Fair View campus,

121the next 10 years, 2016 through 2026. So, in phase one of that, um we had Lurwood Grove Elementary School was built in 2019. Odessa High School was built in 2020. Canwell's Bridge was 2020. Actually, Silver Lake wasn't an addition. We completely took down Silver Lake, all except the exterior walls um and rebuilt the school. We did renovations to Middletown High School, renovations to uh Ever Meredith Middle School, safety and security enhancements, technology updates, and a new Lil Reading. So it wasn't renovations to ever Meredith Middle School. It was actually taken down completely and um rebuilt. Phase two 2019 2021 um we brick mill early childhood center was built. Middletown high school roof. We did turf fields um replaced the turf fields at Middletown High and Aquamic High. And we built Crystal Run Elementary School. We

122also purchased the property for the Summit campus. Phase three of that was a new middle school, excuse me, a new middle school, new high school, a new elementary school. We are in the process of trying to fulfill that. Um, as I mentioned tonight, we need a little funding to make sure this gets completed. Uh, but we're looking at Summit High School, the Summit Aviators, we're looking at Summit Bridge Middle School, and Green Giant Elementary School. As Mr. Hopkins showed tonight, um, they're all on their way. The third 10-year plan, this is looking into the future. So, phase one of this plan, we're looking at replacing Townsen Elementary School. It's our oldest school building at this point, built in 1932. Right, Mr. Grimmer. Um, Summit Campus early childhood center. Um, construction of new Early Child Center

123on the Green Giant Complex, renovations to Middletown High School, renovations to Appo Preschool Center, construction of a new bus lot at Alfred G. Waters Middle School, construction of a new Nitorium at App in Apaccom School District, renovations to Abcom High School, and renovations to Cedar Lane Early Childhood Center. were all what are being proposed for phase one of the plan. Phase two, construction of a new I'll be lost elementary school next to I'll be los um where I'll be lost elementary is now making I'll be lost elementary school an early childhood center renovations to Cedar Lane Elementary School renovations in addition to Alfred G Waters renovations to Brick Mill Elementary School renovations to Townson Early Childhood Center renovations to Bunker Hill renovations to Old State renovations to Spring Meadow and renovations the town in maintenance

124building. Lot of renovations there. As you can see though, our buildings are starting to age at this point as we go through. It's all that stuff that was new in 2006 2016 is starting to age and just making sure that we're maintaining those buildings. The final recommendations for phase three of of future projects will be determined after reviewing revised growth forecasting and evaluating capacity needs and analyzing the progress and outcomes of projects authorized in phases one and two. Just some things to remember. We're getting ready to when we build our fourth high school, we'll have the most high schools of any school district in the state at that point. We'll have five middle schools. um that point we'll be at 11 elementary schools. You saw a lot of early childhood centers up there as projects

125and things like that that we need. That's the area where we're out of space. We simply do not have space um for those students. We are going to have a committee that's going to come together next year uh to start looking at how we can create more space while we wait for our early additional early childhood centers to be built. um as we look at the future as well as there's discussion about the universal prek and things like that that all requires space that we currently do not have as a district. Um so that's why you're seeing a focus there on early childhood centers. Um as we move forward property is also a challenge. Uh Mr. Hopkins and I have been looking for four or five years for a piece of property in the southern

126end. We've contacted two um large commercial uh real estate brokers um and they have not been successful in finding a piece of property for us at the southern part of our district. Uh so we're still looking for that and that's why we say as we look at future growth. If we if we it's determined we need a fifth high school, it would need to be in the southern part of our district, but we need a piece of property to put it on. Any questions? Oh, hold on. There's more to this. I'm sorry. So, Summit Camp, Summit Campus site. You could see there, this is the renderings of with the early childhood center, which is over to my far right there. And then the middle and high school on the campus, that that's what we're working

127on moving dirt for. Now, the early childhood center is not approved. Um, at this point, Green Giant Land, um, Mr. Hopkins showed you this earlier. Um, we're just starting to do a little utility work out there and we're going to show you plans for the new elementary school here next. Um, which is really exciting. Um, and there is space there on that piece of property for an early childhood center which was shown like just earlier which is right here. And that piece of land was thank we're thankful was given to us by the town of Middletown um and where we're able to put two schools on it. This is Bunker Hill Appo High. We actually have a 100 acres on the back side of Appo High um that has a title deed restriction on it.

128Um currently there has been talk of us being able to work to get that. We have been since I be have become superintendent in 2011 and prior to me the district had been working on trying to get that title deed restriction. If we need to build another middle school and another early child center after we're out of all the other spaces we listed, this is an opportunity or place where we eventually could put another middle school or early childhood center. We would have to do some work on in and out of that campus. I'll be lost. So you can see I'll be lost there. The land that is directly to the right of it um is the piece of land that Dell dot gave us. That's where we would look to put the elementary school

129eventually and make I'll be lost an early childhood center. And this is just a rendering. You can see the this like a building layout of the elementary school and just kind of how the traffic flow would work on that campus. Towns and Elementary School. So, Towns and Elementary School, we're a little landlocked there. Um, but we we have proposed and we sent down the DOE when we did our 20 um our last referendum in 2024. We um sent down to them to have this taken down and rebuilt into a three-story elementary school. We've done renovations there. Um it's just the simple fact that the building is below ground level in some aspects of it which caused many challenges. We really need to it would be a three-story building that would allow us to increase capacity

130there. We currently we're like maxed out in that building right now with just around 450 students. We're out of space. They actually do um their related arts over in the early childhood center. Um so it's a big need. Um, we just need to get it approved. >> Any questions for me. >> Any questions? >> I >> So, from all I know, from we know today, you have $116,000 carryover in your operating budget, right, for this year so far. Funding. I mean, referendums are getting tougher and tougher to pass. Our community is taxed deaths. Um besides growth, is there does the district have a plan or putting together a plan on how to procure funding for these projects? [snorts] >> Yeah. I mean, I think part of the plan as we look at it, unfortunately, you

131have to go to referendum for new buildings, no matter if you're increasing taxes or you're not increasing taxes. So, I mean, this is our plan. As we look to the future, we'll start building certificate of necessities and submitting to the state. Um, we have to get approved by the state. Uh, that's what's a little frustrating with the process we're in right now. We were approved by the state, approved by the community. Um, and there wasn't enough funding that went along with that. Um, but yeah, so I mean, that's things that we have to look at in the future. One thing with our district is since we've had the build, as you saw there, since 20 or well 1997 you saw the first building since we've had all that building and we're bonded some of those

132bonds roll off so that reduces the cost of what we need to ask for in construction is it going to cover the full amount I don't know like I c I can't tell you that at this point um I could tell you probably not a high school if you have to build another high school it's probably not going to cover another high school um but also we also have voluntary assessment um that we get, which is about right now a little over $9,000 per house that's built that goes to offsetting this cost for us building new buildings. >> But to say I have a magic >> No, I just No, absolutely not. >> A lot of dollars right there and I'm like wondering how we get from here to there. I mean, on top of

133that, some of the I mean, the friction with this is the state has $1.7 billion with a B of renovations and building maintenance they need to do across the state for districts. So, to your point, not only are referendums more and more challenging, but getting your CN approved is more and more challenging. In the last two years, the state hasn't approved a single certificate of necessity. So that's why we were very fortunate that we got ours approved the year before they stopped approving them. >> Sounds good. Any other questions, comments from the board? >> So I'm seeking approval. I mean, you're just approving the 10-year plan. If we're going to just So you guys, if we're going out for certificate of necessity, we bring that before you before we send the certificate of necessity down.

134And for sure before we go to referendum, we bring that to you for approval as well. So, >> and not much invested in approving a plan. >> Correct. >> Uh, Vice President, I make a motion to approve the 10-year building plan as presented. >> Second. >> Thank you. Motion made by Mr. Higgins, second by Mr. Dit. Any questions, comments? Hearing none. All in favor? >> I. >> Any opposed? The motion passes. Uh, next on the agenda we have the Green Giant Elementary School schematic design. Mr. Hopkins. >> So, tonight we have uh the SD documents that I'm submitting for approval for the Green Giant Road Elementary School. will be an approximately 87,000 square foot building serving 840 students. The design concept is kind of like a country day school kind of help fit that rural

135setting and fit inside the community that's you know kind of developing around it. So with that I'm going to let Bob Gro from RG Architects walk through his presentation. >> Thanks Keith. Next slide. So, uh, you saw the site plan which, uh, Keith had presented earlier and was on the slide before. This is the, uh, actually second floor plan. I'm not sure what happened to the first. Did we miss it? There we go. First floor plan. Uh, the program is very similar to, uh, recent elementary schools in the district. Uh, almost identical to Crystal Run. some uh small administrative spaces, support spaces, changes, but um typical of an 840 student elementary school. Uh on this plan, main entrance and the main block is in the center with two classroom wings, twotory classroom wings, um on

136either side, uh cafeterium, gymnasium, as well as um related arts towards the back there with the playground and that rectangle in the top right. Uh the second floor is three grade level uh pods uh groups um one over the central admin uh space and entrance and one on either uh side of that. Next slide. Uh this is a rendering of the the design for the main entrance of the the school. again u as Keith had mentioned a a country school aesthetic um uh with you know modern farming and you go to the next slide showing the the overall so clean lines that are supposed to uh hearken back to um agrarian aesthetic and character uh with a a central wing that should uh suggest an older farmhouse that's been expanded upon. Next, next slide. Uh

137just from the other side and you'll see the end of the we've tried to reduce the scale of the overall obviously it's a almost 90,000 square foot elementary school. Try to to reduce the overall scale of it to fit with the surrounding communities. Um next slide please Stephen. You'll see here by doing that we're we're doing it with a a double gabled uh form for the um classroom wings. And you'll notice some larger um glass elements that are um lending a a more modern aesthetic and and trying to blend in uh to give the sense of of not only history of the area but also looking [snorts] forward with um to to embrace modern educational methods and and building. Next slide. And there's uh this is a view just of the back. You can see

138it's consistent, but clean um masonry forms, brick building, um exterior with uh aluminum windows and uh clean gable roof forms. >> If you drop back, can you drop back to the slot of the front? If you're looking right there, you can see that that fine right there. That's on the front and the back. that that glass area on the front and that's the commons area where there's large student learning can come out. We kind of picked up out of reading how much everybody really liked that really bright space, you know, and and being in there kids, teachers, and everybody like the way that looked just a nice environment. And that's on the it's on the front here, but it's also in the back. So, it mirrors it on the back for that learning space. I

139just want to point that out. It's kind of a neat feature that kind of works well with the building. Now what you're seeing here is this this is the schematic design. So we're about 30% we would say 30% documents. So like we said before you'll get 30% then we'll bring DDS which are probably 60 66% and then we'll bring the CDs where they're more 97. We're getting ready to go to bid. So this is our design concept. This is how we're starting out. >> This is how we're just just starting out and moving forward. So uh so uh we're we're seeking approval for the SD documents as presented. >> Any questions from the board? The chair will entertain a motion. >> A motion to approve the green elementary school design documents I presented. >> Second

140>> motion by Mr. Higgins, second by Mit. Um any questions, comments? Hearing none. All in favor? >> I. >> Any opposed? None. The motion passes. You have your approval, Mr. Hopkins. >> Thank you. Oh, you have change orders? >> I do. >> Yes. >> Stay up there. >> Tonight, I've uh I've submitted change orders. We only have one change order that I submitted for approval for the amount of $12,000. We're cleaning up uh Lewis Reading and just flushing out some of these final change orders. Make sure the numbers are correct. And this is one of those final change orders for 12,000. I'm seeking approval for that change order as submitted and recommended by myself. [laughter] >> Any questions uh or comments from the board? >> Um the chair will entertain a motion. >> Madam vice

141president, I motion to approve change orders as presented. >> Second. >> Motion um made by Mr. Higgins, second by uh Mr. Abrams. Again, any questions, comments? Hearing none. All in favor? >> I. >> Any opposed? Motion passes. Overnight field trips for approval. The chair will entertain a motion. >> Mad vice president, I motion to approve uh field trips uh ID number 11566, June 26, AHS students to TSA National Conference in Ox Oxen Hill, Missouri, right? for a conference and workshop. And then uh trip ID 11583. That was Mississippi. I apologize. The first was Mississippi. And then trip uh 11583. July 20 26 AHS students to attend Best Buddies Learning Conference in Indiana University. >> Is there a second? >> Second. >> Motion made by Mr. Higgins, second by uh Mr. Abrams for approval of trip

142ID 11566 and trip ID 11583. Any questions or comments? Hearing none. All in favor? >> I. >> Any opposed? Motion passes. Um we've tabled 11A the custodial contract. And then next we have u our personnel report by Mr. I mean I apologize by Dr. Small. >> Good evening. The personnel report for the June board meeting has been presented for your approval. We are asking for your approval as presented along with the names from executive session. >> Madam Vice President, I motion to approve uh the personal report as presented. >> With the addition I'll make a second with the addition names as discussed in executive session. Yes. >> Motion made by Mr. Hagen, second by uh Mr. Abrams for approval of the personnel report as presented inclusive of the names as discussed in um executive session.

143Any questions or comments? I would abstain from that part of the approval since I did not attend that part of the meeting. >> Okay. >> So, I need to make it clear since when I abstain, I don't give reasons why. Um that is the reason I was not present for the conversation. >> Okay. Um thank you Mr. Dit. So uh I'll ask um all in favor >> I with the exception. >> Okay. Um Mr. Abrams >> I. >> Any opposed? The motion passes. Thank you Miss Dr. Small. Um, next on our agenda, we have establishment of meeting dates. There will be a finance board workshop at 6 PM on June 23rd um in the boardroom here at the Miriam and Profit Training Center. The next financial advisory committee will meet at 6 p.m. on July

1447th. And the next regular board of education meeting where we will we will swear in our new members will be at 7 p.m. on July 14th. Everyone have a good night and be well. Thank you.