001by reading our mission statement together. >> Our mission is to inspire and empower our students to reach their full potential through opportunities and experiences in a safe, diverse, and collaborative environment. >> Trustee Anderson, would you lead us in the Pledge of Allegiance? >> I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. >> Trustee Baltowsky, roll call, please. >> Trustee Anderson. >> Present. >> Trustee Baltowsky, present. Trustee Dyra. >> Present. >> Trustee Sterlini. >> Absent. >> Trustee Stevanovic. >> Present. >> Trustee Wall. Trustee Wimless. >> Present. >> We have a quorum. Moving to the next agenda item number four, which is the adoption of the agenda. Be it so resolved that the Board of
002Education accepts the May 6 agenda as presented. A board member may request an item or items be removed from the consent agenda to the superintendent's recommendation. May I have a motion? >> So moved. >> That was a motion by Trustee Baltowsky. Can I have a second? >> Supported by Trustee Stevanovic. Any all in favor? >> I I I I I I >> Any opposed? Any abstaining? The motion will carry. >> We have to take roll call. >> Oh, sorry. Roll call. I'm I'm doing a different meeting. I chair for a lot of meetings and normally we do it that way, but here [laughter] roll call. >> Trustee Anderson. >> Yes. >> Trustee Baltowsky, yes. Trustee Dyra. >> Yes. >> Trustee Stevanovic. >> Yes. >> Trustee Wimberly? >> Yes. >> Okay, now motion carries. Moving to
003agenda item number five, public comment on agenda item. We now welcome public comments on agenda items only. Anyone wishing to make a comment? Seeing none, we will move forward with superintendent's reports. >> Very good. We have three items this evening. First in your board packet is a copy of the Wayne County Regional Educational Service Agency Board of Education National Teacher Appreciation Week Proclamation. And so, um hopefully you had an opportunity to look this over. It certainly uh reflects on not just all of the teachers in Wayne County, but certainly the teachers that we have here at D7. So, I'm just going to point out a couple of uh the items. It begins by whereas public education remains the cornerstone of a strong, thriving, and just society, and teachers are the very heart of that foundation,
004transforming lives each day, and in doing so shaping communities, strengthening our nation, and influencing the future of our world by ensuring every student has access to high high-quality, equitable learning opportunities. And then it goes on to speak to the work that the teachers do, how they build bridges between schools and families and communities, um their commitment to growth, and certainly here at D7 we've done a lot of professional development, especially in the area of equity. And those sessions have been highly attended, and certainly the teachers have been fully engaged. Um it goes on to speak that the the Wayne RESA Board of Education probably proudly recognizes these individual these invaluable contributions, and express its great deepest gratitude and unwavering application for excellence, commitment, in the heart of the the educators bring each day to their
005job. National Teacher Appreciation Week provides a meaningful opportunity to celebrate, honor, uplift the extraordinary work of the teachers and educators and the profound difference they make in the lives of students, families, and communities. And I know this board echoes that for our teachers here in D7 and all of the hard work that they do. So, I did want to take a minute and recognize that, recognize our teachers, and thank them, all of our educators um here in D7. Any questions? Okay. The next uh item is this Sat- We have a big day on Saturday. So, Saturday morning is the 33rd annual Ecorse Creek cleanup and rain garden maintenance. As we know, the creek's pretty well cleaned up, right? So, the focus will be on the the rain garden. Yeah, it's like it's really cleaned up.
006Um the rain uh garden maintenance, that's really the focus uh the last couple of years that I've been involved in here. And I know Scott's volunteered as well. Talked to Tom, he's still looking for volunteers or donations or any way that anyone can help out. It is a fun event. Um it's really neat to kind of pitch in and help out. And if there's many hands, the work is not that strenuous. So, 33rd annual Ecorse Creek cleanup uh Saturday, May 9th, this Saturday at 9:00 a.m. and you just report to the Richard A. Young Recreation Center and we'll get directions and away we go. Questions? Okay. And then also on Saturday evening, I'm just going to camp out here all day Saturday, uh will be uh they're presenting the third annual family fun night. So,
007this is at the high school. It's Saturday from 5:00 to 9:00. The Home Depot Kids Workshop will be there. We'll be doing open swimming, open gym, food, games, arts and crafts, and dozens of activities. Everything is free. They are asking for food donation, non-perishable food donation that at the end of the event they give away. So, kind of a neat event for families. Last year we had a pretty good turnout and we're hoping the same is for this year. So, it's a it'll be a fun-filled day here in D7. But, I look forward to it. So, please come on out and help both events if you can. That's all I have. >> Okay. Um moving to the next agenda item agenda item eight, Superintendent's recommendation letter A, certified staff resignation exhibit number one. Be it
008so resolved that the Board of Education approves the following certified staff resignation, Arthur Campbell, science teacher Annapolis High School August 31st, 2026 is the effective date. The next Montiece Chamblee. Is that how you say it? >> Chamblee. Chamblee. Um assistant principal at O.W. Best effective July 30th, 2026. May I have a motion? >> So moved. >> Moved by Trustee Beltowsky. >> Support. >> Trust uh supported by Trustee Anderson. Roll call, please. >> Trustee Beltowsky, yes. Trustee Dyroff? >> Yes. >> Trustee Savanovic? >> Yes. >> Trustee Winless? >> Yes. >> Trustee Anderson? >> Yes. >> The motion carried. Moving to the next agenda item 8B, non-certified staff resignation exhibit two in your packet. Be it so resolved that the Board of Education approves the following non-certified staff resignation, DeAngelo Martin, groundskeeper effective April 17th, 2026. May
009I have a motion? >> So moved. >> Moved by Trustee Beltowsky. >> Support. >> Trustee by um supported by Trustee Savanovic. Anybody No, not doing that. Roll call, please. >> Trustee Diroff? >> Yes. >> Trustee Savanovic? >> Yes. >> Trustee Whinless? >> Yes. >> Trustee Anderson? >> Yes. >> Trustee Beltowski? Yes. >> Okay, letter C, Annapolis Across the Borders Program, exhibit number three in your packet. Be it so resolved that the Board of Education approves the participation in the Annapolis Across the Borders Program as presented. The program provides students with transform transformative, thank you. >> Very good. >> learning experiences that extend beyond the classroom. The proposal also includes approval for the next proposed trip to explore London and Paris during spring break of 2028. May I have a motion? >> So moved. >> Moved
010by trustee Beltowski. >> Supported by trustee Savanovic. Roll call, please. >> Trustee Savanovic? >> Yes. >> Trustee Whinless? >> Yes. >> Trustee Anderson? >> Yes. >> Trustee Beltowski? Yes. Trustee Diroff? >> Yes. >> [clears throat] >> Okay, motion carries. Moving to the next agenda item, which is letter D, reduction in workforce, exhibit number four in your packet. Be it so resolved that the Board of Education approves the reduction of one building level administrator position, Dearborn Heights um in parentheses Dearborn Heights School District number seven Association of Principals and Assistant Principals. May I have a motion? >> So moved. >> Moved by trustee Beltowski. >> Supported by trustee Anderson. >> Discussion? >> Any discussion I >> Yeah. Can I just read it? I got a statement just to update everyone. So, as everyone knows, we're making
011major changes to the budget for the upcoming school year, the 26-27 school year, and will impact pretty much all of the areas in our district from central office administration to all buildings to departments. So, the impacts obviously, I've discussed here at this table due to state aid, student count, overall staffing. Um we're down approximately 140 plus students from last year to this year. We the district did have a fund balance due to the SR money. The state directed all the schools to hire use those dollars to hire staff. We did that. We've [clears throat] added a significant number of staff over the last 3 years. And unfortunately, the enrollment and the decline in state aid placed us in this situation. But again, our goal, we're about teaching and learning, so we need to make sure
012that we align staff with students to right-size the district. So, we've been working on these budget reductions with input from um central office administration, building principals, department directors. Uh the board has moved in the past and hopefully will continue. You know, there's a item today that's pretty important a part of the reductions. Um we're also working with um MDE. Um I've already spoke to our at-risk folks about how we can make more effective use of our at-risk grant dollars to meet the educational needs of our students. And I certainly understand that the planned reductions are difficult to all those involved. The budget process as we move forward is very fluid. Um it relies on many factors from grant money to um the state aid. And also, obviously, based on enrollment. We're dependent upon the decisions
013in Lansing. And currently, the governor's plan, the Senate plan, and the House plan have been released. So, if you uh taken a look at those, um before they're finalized, though, the three groups have to sit down and hammer out a compromise for that budget. Now, there is some good news in all of this. Currently, all three proposed budgets are calling for an increase in state aid with no reduction on the backside for the MERS offset. They're saying that the retirement the MERS fund is solvent. So that's good. They made significant changes last year and they made them late. As you know, we didn't get a budget until October. So this will be good for D7 if that in fact holds true. And also they're talking about because of what happened last year that they are
014on track. Now it's Lansing so things could stall you never know but to have a state aid by July 1st which certainly would help with all involved. But currently right now they're calling for a $300 per pupil increase in the plans. Now that could change based on the negotiations but that would be good news for not just D7 but for school districts across the state. Another key component are student count thus we're host hosting the enrollment fair on May 19th. We're offering all the services that parents need to enroll their children, vision, hearing, all of those things. I think there's a shot clinic just everything that they would need. We'll have iPads there. We'll have folks there to help parents get their students enrolled. So we're hoping for a good turnout. We've sent out flyers
015if you've seen it's on the website. We'll also be closely monitoring what's going on in Lansing and what's going here with our student count and again the goal is to right-size the district to match student count while continuing to meet the educational needs of our students and our families. So the work is not done. It's still a fluid situation because of the factors that I just discussed but we're trying to make the best decisions based on the information that we have and that we're getting from all of the lobbying groups that are in Lansing and then certainly doing what we can do here with enrolling students. Any questions? Thank you. >> Thank you. Roll call, please. Trustee Trustee Anderson. >> Yes. >> Trustee Baltovsky, yes. Trustee DiRoth. >> Yes. >> Trustee Stevanovic. >> Yes. >>
016Trustee Winless. >> Yes. >> Motion carried. Moving to the next agenda item, which is unfinished business, the designation of the official newspaper of record. >> Yeah, so just a quick update. Sue has worked hard on this to try to reach out and get through. It's a struggle um getting a hold of these folks and trying to get this finalized. So, we still need a little bit more time on this one. >> Okay. Um I had made a note to myself to talk about the listen and learn today. Um do you guys want to do that under unfinished business or other business? It doesn't matter. Unfinished business? Okay. So, as you know, we held listen and learns. Um it's been like a few weeks now, a week and a half or so ago, and um we
017need to discuss next steps, and we have a majority to move forward with a closed session. And so, today we're supposed to be um coming up with dates for a closed session for that meeting, for the listen and learn, to go through the data. Trustee DiRoth. >> So, is the superintendent going to be in the closed session? >> That I think is up for us to discuss tonight. >> So, has the superintendent received the listen and learn um information? Have you? >> Um not not at this point, no. >> Um and is the attorney going to be there? >> At this time, the attorney has not been requested to be at this meeting. >> Okay. Well, I was one that is not in favor of having a closed session on this, and I wanted to
018um distribute to all of you um information from True and Law Firm and from MASB. You know, you guys all go to those um classes, so I thought you would be um happy to hear what they had to say about closed session. There's five reasons that we can go I'm sorry, eight reasons that we can go into closed session. I'm not sure where listen and learn falls. If it's going to be complaints about disciplinary action, I don't know how that could fall into the listen and learn. Um periodic personnel evaluations, student discipline, um collective bargaining strategy strategy, purchase or or leasing property, pending litigation, applications for employment and appointment to public office, and exempt material. And exempt material, I'm you know, if you're going to put um listen and learn under attorney-client privilege or FERPA,
019I I just don't understand that. I don't think that they're exempt materials. Um three of you met with or three at different times met with the individuals. No one knows who they are. All the papers that I've seen say speaker one, two, and three. I personally don't understand. So, you can just just take a personal note. Um I personally don't understand the need to go into closed session to discuss the listen and learn. And I'm really interested to hear why others feel that we need to and where it falls under what the topics are allowed in closed session. And what? Oh, your microphone. Sorry. Discipline, thank you. That's all right. Um just to go off of what Brandy had just stated, basically why we want to go Sorry. Why we want to go into closed
020session to discuss this. Yes, you got our notes. Um it does state that, but we want to We stated that we want to be um We want to be open and honest with everybody, but we wanted to make sure that that person stayed um anonymous. So, that's why we wanted to go into closed session to make sure that we were all on the same like note that we weren't putting somebody at risk of disclosing who they were. >> How would you do You're not supposed to divulge that open or closed. So, why why the need for closed session? It just That still doesn't clear it up for me. And I still don't understand where you think it falls under closed session. Under one of those eight items. >> Um I read through Does anybody else
021before I go? >> But Can she Can she answer though on >> Oh, yeah. >> You know, like if you're saying that we said that we were going to keep people anonymous, we would do that in open as well. Right? No? >> Well, cuz some of the information was a little bit too personal. >> But we did say that we were going to share that information. I wrote notes on what everyone said we were going to do with the information once we got it. We're literally supposed to give a copy to all staff is what we said we would be doing to be transparent with us. >> I don't think that anyone's saying we're not giving a copy to staff. >> Uh-huh. Well, if we're going to give a copy to staff, I don't understand
022why we can't just have an open discussion at the table. >> Hey, I'm just filling in for Charlene. >> I'm just asking >> And she didn't know and there was a majority vote and anyone else. >> for closed session. I was here to schedule a date. If you would like to table this discussion until we have a full board so that we can know the vote codes or why not or the lawyer or why not we can do that. We don't have to make a decision tonight on a date. I didn't know that. But I know I read through a lot of what was written in the listen and learn and for some of the sessions that I was not even at I can tell who the person is just from inside knowledge being a
023parent in the district and being involved as far as volunteering. I can tell who the people are. So I know that if you say it in a open session the way it's written you can tell who the person is and I think that's why the majority of the people would like to go into a closed session to be able to say what's on the papers. >> And um and I understand that but then you're going to have to give them to everyone everyone's going to see that anyway. You said it was agreed to by this board that we would be giving those to be transparent. Everyone in this district would get a copy of those listen and learns. And including the superintendent and if the superintendent isn't going to be there I find it highly
024insulting on his behalf. >> I don't I haven't heard anyone doesn't want to say that. >> that's not the case. I think anybody has said that. Good. >> Nope. I haven't heard that said once. >> And I'm hoping that he'll get copies of those soon then. >> Um I can forward him what I have. I don't have a problem. If if that's the wish of the board is that the wish of the board? >> Yes I thought that that was going to happen. I thought that when um President Sterlini had a meeting with Mark that they were going over that. That was my understanding. >> Okay. >> Well just to be frank it just seems to me if we're going to have a conversation about listen and learn and we're going to complain about whatever
025those complaints are it seems to me that the person that we would be complaining to should be in the room. And and that we should have someone in the room that could say, yes, this is accurate. Yes, I might have something different to say about that. You know, I mean, it just that would make sense to me. And just an FYI, and but I don't think we should go in close session. I think it's a violation, and I think we're damn close to violating our open meetings rules. >> Um may I? >> Yes. >> Um not everything was a complaint. >> I understood that. I read them. I read them. I read them. >> Listen and learn. >> Right. >> So, just to to say, well, just blanket it as it was all complaints is
026not a fair or accurate statement. >> I didn't mean to blanket it that way, so thank you for that correction. >> I just thought that the listen and learn was for us to listen and learn from the perspective of the the adminis- the teachers and everyone else. I didn't see it as being um blaming anyone or negatively talking about anyone. I felt that we were the board wanted to listen to hear the teachers' perspective because they are they were being affected by the layoffs and things like that. So, we were just trying to I thought or believed test the temperature of the district to make sure that everybody was okay and to know that they had a voice, but I never saw it as you know, being demeaning or saying that somebody did something wrong.
027That was my perception of it. I thought it was positive, and I don't think a lot of negativity came out of it. I thought it was just a open space for people for the teachers to come to us, our administrators, to say, you know, this is how I feel, and then we gather it up and we let Mark know or whoever else. That's what I thought the purpose was. >> That's what exactly what I thought the purpose was, too. so why the closed session? >> Well, I think and I can't speak for Tanya, you know, because but I felt like maybe she [clears throat] wanted all of the board to come together and for us to have a conversation, so everybody could be on the same sheet of music. Not to say that it would
028never be disclosed, but I think the board needs to come together because we were all in different rooms and things like that. We all we could read it, but you know, we all haven't had the opportunity to come together to express what we learned. And then once we do that, then we could open it up and convey it to whoever wants to know, but I think the board should be on one sheet of music first. >> And I think that ought to occur at open. I don't know how many more ways to say it, so stop. >> Okay. >> [clears throat] >> Well, I was the board member that requested the study session. Um, if you see my email, I did not request that it be closed or open. I have it Oh, okay. Well,
029I didn't request that it be closed, but once it was shared with the board, there was a majority who wanted it to be in closed session. So, I think the best approach instead of us like kind of going around and around the topic, we've all kind of made our points. We table it and wait until we have our other two board members here to make a decision on when we and when and how we should meet on this topic. Is that fair? >> Absolutely. >> Okay. Um, it wasn't on the agenda. I kind of just walked it on because I didn't see it here, so we don't need to do a formal motion to table it. I'm just going to go ahead and move forward with new business. Is there any new business to come
030before the board? Okay, then next I'm going to move to district points of pride with Mr. Kleinhen. >> Yep. So, um, just a uh, short points of pride and announcements. So, congratulations to all the participants in the elementary spelling bee last week and all the contestants did a fantastic job. Thank you to the MC and the judges who were able to attend. It was really really a neat event. It is every year. The last two spellers um, I mean, I was thoroughly impressed. That was from words that they didn't have time to practice. Um, they went how many rounds? >> I think it went 12. >> 12 rounds. Yep. So, it really was amazing and congratulations to everyone. And not just the finals, but all of the students, you know, getting up there in front
031of on a stage in front of your family and all the people that were there and the judges is is um, it's quite a deal. So, just great job to everybody. Thanks to the board members who volunteered. I also want to shout out to the cast and crew of The Murder Was Staged. It truly was a great show if you had an opportunity to attend. Um, Wendy's still laughing about it. I talked to her. She sat right next to me. It was We had It was good. Um, I'm still trying to figure out who committed the crime, right? So, I'm not the smartest um, out there, but it really was a fun inner interactive >> Yeah, it was staged. There you go. And it was cool how they brought the audience into the actual show.
032So, just congratulations and good work to everybody. I talked to the students and I told them, "I'm just amazed at all of the work and the time that goes into memorize that the whole, you know, all the dialogue." And I asked them when they did it and they said basically 24/7. In between talking to these people, they would practice. Going to this class, coming out, practice. Going to this If they were, you know, in sports or in a club and then coming out and practice, but they said that that's what they did the whole time leading up to the play. So, um, so just a really couple of really neat events. Just a I already talked about Saturday. Again, if you can come out and volunteer, you just want to show up and hang out,
033that would be great for either one of the events. Talked about the enrollment fair. Just an update on summer discovery program. We're at a point now where we can get our postings out. We're planning on doing that this week for this to staff the program. We're at 240 students that have applied. If you remember the grant is open. We can take up to four 400 students. So, as of late we've added a number of students. So, pretty excited about that. It's again all day programming with academics in the morning, enrichment in the afternoon. It includes both the breakfast and the lunch. So, shout out to Paul from Chartwells to setting that up. And it And right now it looks like unless things change, we're we're going to be at Polk Elementary on one site, but
034that could change if we get more middle schoolers to sign up. We could end up going Polk and here, but we'll see. It's funded through a grant from the Balmer Group, United Way of Southeast Michigan. Again, web pages. We want to make sure we send out. Leslie brought up a good point for those parents that have already signed up. We'll talk about that tomorrow. Getting out communication. So that they know that they are in and just pretty excited about this program. We'll get the postings out and we'll get the staffing taken care of. But it is definitely coming together. This is the first year. When we meet with our rep from the Balmer Group and United Way, she hopes that things go well because they want to continue it here at D7. So, they want
035us to reapply for the grant if things go well. So, pretty excited about that. Also in front of you I have the graduation information end of the year for all the board members. So, please take note of that. It's It's a wonderful time. As a superintendent, um one of the best days as a school superintendent is graduation because you get to see these students, all of the work that they've done, achieve a milestone in walking across that stage. So, um you'll see that Senior Honors Night, May 20th. The clap out is May 21st. Um and of course that's the end of the day for seniors. They come back then for final exams. Um they turn their Chromebooks. That's sitting there. And then prom is May 28th. And then June 4th is the big day. That's
036In the morning the seniors come in, they do their practice, and then commencement ceremony begins at 6:00. And that's again at the Taylor Sportsplex on Telegraph Road. And Mr. Mallett knows the back way if you need a back way to get there. So, um June 4th is the Senior All Night Party at the Zap Zone. I know that Karen's sitting in the audience. Karen, raise your hand. She's worked very hard at setting up this event. And um so, a lot of stuff going on. And then also we sent out emails um and information in my Friday report about the Wayne RESA budget presentations, both the Zoom meetings and the and the um face-to-face meetings. So, hopefully you had an opportunity to look at that. And that's what I have. >> Okay, moving down to other
037business. Um says we have a building and site update, but since Chair Wall isn't here, I'm guessing we'll skip that one. And then same thing for Finance Committee. Right? And then Policy has no update. Then moving up to under upcoming board committee meetings, uh building and site has none scheduled, Finance has none scheduled, the Policy Committee is meeting Friday, May 15th. >> Excuse me, Vice President Winless, but there is a building and site committee meeting scheduled. >> Okay. >> I may consult my calendar on my phone. >> Okay. >> Um that will be next Wednesday, May 13th at 6:30 at the board office. >> Thank you, Trustee Vitale. And then um policy committee is meeting Friday, May 15th, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. at the board office. Next, we are moving to public comment number two.
038Anyone wishing to address the board on any topic at all can uh come to the public um come to the podium and make public comment for public comment number two. And before they start, I just want to let the board know I am not a fan of interrupting public comments and I believe we follow Robert's Rules of Order. So, if there is something that you feel um offends the bylaw or the policy related to public comment, I'd ask that you make a point of order and somebody second that point of order to stop a public comment. Okay? >> All right, welcome. >> Hi, Karen Lawer, uh parent and staff member. I live off Annapolis Street in Dearborn Heights. Um good evening. I'm here as a parent and a staff member. I take the safety of
039our students and my fellow D7 coworkers very seriously. I would like to formally address several critical security and safety concerns that have recently arisen within the district. As you recall, at least I hope you're all aware, there was a lockdown a week ago today here at O.W. Best. I thought it was concerning that 13 minutes went by from the time the boot was allegedly pulled to the police actually getting here. Our safety director had sent out an email, a letter from our superintendent, to the entire district. I replied all and specifically asked if we were in fact connected to the Dearborn Heights Police Department and why did it take them 13 minutes to get to O.W. Best. Almost 48 hours went by with no response. In the meantime, I had several D7 staff reach out
040and ask if I received a response. I did a follow-up reply all emails reiterating my questions. The superintendent called me within 5 minutes of that email stating he was just going through his emails and assured me we were connected and we were safe with the boot, etc. Then, within about 25 minutes, our safety director responded to that email thread, but only to me and included the superintendent. She went on about the response time, that they were at various places throughout the city, and that it would take them at least 10 minutes to get to us because of where the department is. They were all lies. I live right off Annapolis in between O.W. Best and the department. I can make it to work in 5 minutes or less. I took it upon myself to go
041up to the police department and inquire about the response time. That 13 minutes is unacceptable. Upon speaking with Supervisor Wren, he assured me they were there within 3 minutes. I said it was 13 minutes before police pulled up to O.W. Best. That's when Sergeant Mitchell stepped in and informed me that police were not dispatched until a 911 call came in at 12:37 p.m. Then they were there within 3 minutes. So, just to be clear, we had 10 minutes of law enforcement not knowing we were in a lockdown. That's scary. Officers The officers were even unsure where the master tablet exactly was and if it if it even was sent a notification. Again, another lie, as we are not fully connected as we've all been told. They may have a master tablet, but if it's not
042being monitored 24/7, it's useless. I emailed the principal of Best and our safety director right after my findings telling them what I found out and that there should be a directive to staff to call 911 in the event a what was pulled since the PD may not know about it from the tablet. I have yet to receive that directive. All the safety director wanted to know was who I spoke with at the department to which I responded with names right away and that was all that was said. This morning I received a call from the superintendent and apparently the captain of the police department wanted to know who I spoke to so I informed him in the names even though they were in the email I sent them last night. The superintendent then called back
043and informed me the captain stated the master tablet was in his office. I questioned that and apparently the captain said he is afraid someone would misuse it if it were down by dispatch where it should be in my opinion. I'm tired of the lies and 10 minutes of no law enforcement knowing we were in lockdown is unacceptable. Separately I want to address the recent cuts to our security staffing. The current staffing of only two guards at both AHS and OW bus is wholly inadequate for maintaining a safe and controlled environment. This under staffing was recently underscored by an incident involving my son in the restroom a few weeks ago where he was physically struck by a hard plastic wet floor barrier tossed into his stall amid a large crowd of students. This type of harassment
044and lack of control within common areas is a predictable consequence of insufficient security presence. I'm certain that other students are facing similar issues but are hesitant to report them. Increased security is essential for better monitoring and maintaining a baseline of order particularly in areas like restrooms that are currently unsupervised. I urge the administration to provide immediate and comprehensive answers to these pressing issues. A proactive and transparent approach is vital to restoring confidence in the safety of our schools. Thank you for your immediate attention to these urgent matters. Thank you. >> Okay, are there any other public comments to come before the board? >> Hi, Jen Blackburn, OWEAB bus. Sorry. Trying to get myself organized cuz I wasn't prepared to speak, but then now I want to speak. Um a couple of things just from what
045was discussed. Ms. Dyroff is absolutely correct. That is not allowable in the OMA. Um there have been many times in the past that the board has wanted to go into closed session for various things cuz it seems like sensitive topics to discuss publicly. It's just not allowed. If you don't want to talk about it publicly, you don't get to talk about it. That's why four people can't go have coffee at the coffee shop and talk about something cuz you can't do that. You have to act in public. You have to discuss those things in public. And I agree. I I disagree with one thing I heard um that you didn't think it was going to bring about things or complaints or whatever. Um the email that was presented to the staff said that immediate resolutions
046or solutions would not be provided. Um but notes would be taken without identifying the people. A summary of the feedback will be shared with the full board and considered for potential action and improvements within the district. Well, if there weren't complaints, you wouldn't need improvements. So, that that you kind of like opened the floodgates and I'm I think you felt the flood from what I'm gathering. And so you have to do something. You can't leave people hanging. But I agree a public conversation should be had. Even if you guys think you know who you're talking about when you read what's being discussed, that doesn't mean we're going to know who you're talking about. I mean, I would know when you're talking about something I said or somebody else might know, but I just think it's
047it's bad for business to try to do that hidden. Not just bad for business for the people that came forward and spoke, but I agree that it's it's not fair to Mark. It's not fair to anybody else who is under the impression that things were being said about things that are going on. Okay, so it seemed there's a lot of misconceptions. So hopefully next time it gets cleared up and then brought forward. I'm going to piggyback a little bit off of Karen Lower's statements about safety in the boot system. I was I'm on the safety committee too. I was super disappointed by everything that took place with that lockdown. Um I had a feeling that day that there had not been alert that was made to the police department just because of the response. And
048I mean, I've seen responses to other school districts where a boot is pulled and it it's like lights blaring, sirens going, people coming in mass. And it was like crickets at O.W. Best. So there was definitely something not happening which we all knew. Um if it is true that the tablet is in the captain's office, I'm just baffled by that. Does the captain never leave his office? Does he go to the bathroom? Does he take a lunch? Does he go home? We have events in the evening. We have dances. We have basketball games. We have all these events where things could happen. And if the tablet's in the captain's office, it's just it's it's unacceptable. There's no I can't even believe that that would be something that Smart Boot would say was allowable or advised.
049So, that's a huge problem. To go off of the security comment that was made, the security cuts are terrible. We do need more security. And it's it's unsafe mostly because if we're not properly managing the people in the building and we don't have security, it's a hot mess every single day. And and it's unsafe and it's a terrible feeling. This time of year especially, it's chaos in the buildings day in and day out and nobody feels comfortable. You leave every day anxious, you come back every day anxious. So, having less security is just terrible. Personally, Lagarda has not done well for us. Every time we rotate security guards, we get new security guards that don't stay or don't do what we want them to do. We have to my knowledge, we have two good security
050guards in this district. They've been here a long time. They don't know what they know what they're doing. We We need to do more for them. Number one, so they don't leave. And number two, we need to find a way to get a group that will be like them and do what they do. They do it right. So, that's what needs to happen. Um one more quick thing. I'm going to get cut off. The 25-26 school year, and I'm not talking about after the cuts, I'm talking before the cuts. We have had more staff in this district than we've ever had to my knowledge. Um and we still struggle to get things done, which I don't understand. And the main thing I was talking about is summer school. We've heard nothing about summer school. That's
051it. Okay. Beep beep beep. I'm done. That's it. I had no questions. >> And Ms. Blackburn, if you want to come back up for your second time after everyone after everyone's done, you have a second opportunity as well. >> Um Virginia Morgan. I It was a very difficult hearing today. We could barely hear. I don't think it was because of the microphones, but anyway, um when you were talking about reduction in workforce, Mark, I wonder um originally when you talked about it, it was very clear, you know, a couple of months ago you said, you know, teachers, 14 uh parapros, or whatever that was that the list that and that was very comfortable that we had an idea. I mean, we don't have to know the name. So, today, unless I misunde- I didn't hear
052you. So, you the first one you mentioned, you said um administration, and then you said, I believe, with consent of the principal and assistant principals' contract. So, can you can you be clearer on that? >> Yeah, so in the resolution we just cite the contract that the individuals or individual in this case came worked under. That's >> Right, so which was it and which position was it? I mean, not who or what what what position is that? An assistant principal? >> So, um so we will announce all of the restructuring once we get everything finalized. So, the the board just >> there a reduction in principal or assistant principal? >> In the in the building administrative group. Does that make sense? >> tell me if it's a principal or an assistant principal? >> Well, we
053have an assistant principal that resigned, right? And then the reduction is in the principal group. >> In the principal group. Okay. And then likewise you you you kind of alluded that the other reduction was involved at-risk students. Who are those? Is that a teacher or is that a parapro? >> I'd say neither. >> Nothing about at-risk students. I spoke to the importance about using the at-risk dollars. >> Okay. >> Yeah, effectively to whether it's higher staff, whether it's create positions. So, in this year's budget, we had some significant at-risk dollars that we couldn't spend. That will be part of the carryover next year because of the rules tied to that money. So, so we're looking at that to And of course consulting with the state to make sure it's good to go, but we're looking
054at that so that we can possibly bring folks back and under the at-risk positions. >> Okay. Yep, that's what I was talking about. >> Okay. So, so there wasn't another line another group. >> Nope. >> Okay. And um let's see. You don't have the minutes prepared for the building and site meeting. >> Um The the >> I'm sure the chairperson has it. >> Who? >> I'm sure the chairperson Derek Wall has it, but he's just not here tonight. >> Okay. Yeah, I I thought maybe Mark had them and so that was it. Okay. And I just wanted to piggyback on a little bit. I went to the senior fashion show, the spelling bee, and the high school play. And I I was over overwhelmed. All of them were great and I was very proud of
055all attending all three of those. So, thank you very much. >> Are there any other public comments to come before the board? All right. Yes. Okay. Yep. Okay, I'm just going to start that last part again cuz that was ridiculous. Okay. Um so what I was saying was that so in this school year prior to making cuts, the 25-26 school year, we've had more staff per student than we've ever had before. And it feels like we've get we've gotten less done. Um the budget debacle is one thing, but beyond that I'm just going to talk about the summer school program. I know the program is new. Um I know probably as much as any of you know about it. Um I did see the email that went out to parents inviting them. I've seen the
056banner on the website inviting people to sign up. Here are my concerns just from the middle school perspective. I think this program is probably going to be fabulous for elementary and they've almost filled all their spots. The middle school on the other hand, not so much. Um I think we only have 25 spots filled. In the email we got from our principal said, "We need more. Please call people. Please tell people." It was like this hard push to get people to sign up. Here's the problem. We have many students in the middle school who need summer school for academic reasons. This program is being proposed like summer camp. So it it does have academics in the morning, but we were specifically told that this can't be presented as being a punishment. Like you're not being
057told you have to go. You're invited to go for fun and activities, which is great and makes everybody feel good, but the bottom line is if you're failing all of your classes, we're not inviting you to summer camp. We're telling you you need academic support in order to be ready for the next grade, and that's not what's happening. And so I'm not surprised that there's so few people signed up, and I looked at Well, I've talked to my kids and I've looked at some of the names of the kids who've said they've signed up. They're not the kids that need summer school. They're kids that want to have fun, which is great. It's great, and I'm sure it's great for parents who need somewhere for their kids to be, and it's fabulous for that, but
058I'm not sure it's we're really hitting the mark on what we need, and I don't think we're hitting the mark for middle school because clearly we don't have enough people signed up. So, teachers still haven't heard. We've not been invited to say if we want to teach or not teach. It's May. I just I happen to have friends in other districts who have used this program. The Dearborn teachers were invited to say they wanted to participate in December. It is May. We I'm I'm on hold. Should I plan a vacation? Should I not plan a vacation? Am I going to teach? Am I not going to teach? I don't I don't It's It's just kind of last minute thrown together, which might be another reason why I don't know. Maybe it's not going to go
059well. I I just I I feel like we need something different specifically for the middle school. That's it. Thanks. >> All right, one more last call for public comment. Oh, yeah, come on down. >> Hello, Jack Monsarow, Annapolis High School. I wasn't going to talk, but I really wanted to piggyback on that because we are what, May 6th, and the high school has no summer school at this point. We have no idea who's running it. We have no idea who's going to be teaching it. We have been asking and asking and asking. We have seniors that are behind for credits, and their parents are asking us, "When do I sign up for summer school? Will my kid get to walk? Will my kid get to graduate this year?" And the only thing we have for
060them is we have no idea. And this is not new. Um it seems like every year, over the last 4 years, the high school acts as if they didn't know summer school was coming. And we are behind the gate. We are unprepared. And we are making huge mistakes. Huge mistakes. Uh I just found a kid today who's graduating that I've been nagging about finishing his credit recovery class so he can graduate on time. He said, "I did in summer school last year." I said, "No, you didn't. It's not on your transcript." He said, "Yes, I did." I found it in the system. He and did finish the class last year in summer school, and the grade didn't get through. And that comes from not being able to be prepared, not plan, not get the list
061out, not have counselors have time to validate them properly, not have staff assigned to students properly, and not having administrators be able to administrative secretaries put that summer school track into My Star with all of the accurate stuff. When you are trying to put summer school together in a week, in a week, and that's what we've pretty much done the last couple times, you have all of these mistakes. It's not hard to do, but it's a moment of preparation. Seeing the future. It's coming. We know it's coming. This year we are also really confused about whether or not which online platform we will use. Will we not use an online platform? We have no clue what's going to happen. So, for me, I'm stressed out as the interventionist and I'm working with these students and
062we have the benefit and the luxury that has been granted to students that they still get that uh opportunity to walk across the stage if they have two classes are left to complete in summer school and that's it. Their parents are worried. I'm worried. How do we fit these in? Which classes do we take first? How are we going to make it all work when they're struggling to come from behind? And so, the lack of not knowing is really stressful. Counselors, myself, students, parents, everything. And I can't express that enough, obviously, although I did for 3 minutes. Um another issue that I am struggling with um because I'm not going to speak for anyone else. Um is the lack of involvement in terms of we have this huge financial issue. We have everything that's going
063on. And sometimes it feels like when you're at the bottom, when you are that teacher, you have all of these ideas. You're like, "Dude, we could save money if we did this. We could save money if we did this." But it seems like we don't come together. And I guess I liken that to the fact that if I looked at my household and I said we were overspending and I decided I was going to take it on myself and solve the problem. And I didn't invite my kids to figure out how they could cut spending. If I didn't involve my husband in how he could figure out how we could cut spending, and how the four of us could collectively make some changes that would maximize um our household but reduce the amount. Like maybe
064we're going to have family making dinner night. And you're going to learn how to make mom's favorite dish because it's entertainment and it's dinner at the same time. I feel like we have a lot of ideas and we have a lot to give. All of us. And with such a small district we could pool those resources a little bit better. I And again maybe they are. Maybe I'm just feeling left out. I don't know. I'm just saying I don't know if enough people are being brought in to to problem solve. And maybe we could cut more corners that doesn't involved educators or opportunities. Maybe paperwork. Thank you. >> All right. Is there anyone else wishing to address the board for public comment? Seeing none, I am going to move to the next agenda item, agenda
065item number 14, which is kudos. And Desiree, will you start? >> Sure. To Mary McDonald from Jamie Morris, um dated May 4th. Thank you for bringing some extra sunshine and smiles to all of the teachers at Best during Teacher Appreciation Week. You and our student council students absolutely rock. >> To Kerry Hendricks from Danielle Osborne. Thank you so much for all the hard work you put into student council. It truly shows. Our students love being involved and appreciate the fun and meaningful activities student council brings to Polk. >> To Breanna Vasquez from Danielle Osborne, dated April 30th. Thank you for everything you do for E in our classroom. The love, patience, and care you show are evident and you are making a difference. Your genuine effort is not going unnoticed. We are grateful to your
066hard work and dedication with E. To Zade Saad, Jennifer Rayum, Kristen Sonberger, Amanda Steger, Brian Buchanan, Kevin Caniram from Karen Lower, dated May 5th. Each one of you played an important role in the senior fashion show. From printing to behind the scenes, borrowing props, etc. Thank you so much for your support and dedication to the students. It is greatly appreciated. >> To Jennifer Jackson from Danielle Osborne, dated 4/30 '26. Thank you so much for all your hard work that you put into our safety program with our safeties at Polk. All of the safeties do a tremendous job and it is a reflection of your hard work and effort. We appreciate you. >> To Victoria Garganzolis from Danielle Osborne. Dated 4/30/26. Thank you so much for the incredible care and commitment you show Lilly, Polk's facility
067dog. Your dedication, patience, and hard work truly makes a difference every single day. It is clear how much love and effort you put into ensuring Lilly's happy, healthy, and able to support our school community. We appreciate you more than you know. To Elizabeth Charlton, Diane Hudson, and Atina Brown from Karen Karen Lawer. Dated 5/5/2026. Ladies, I could not have done this without you. Thank you so much for your hard work and dedication to help make make sure the senior fashion show was a success. Any additional kudos? No? All right, hearing none, we're going to move to the next agenda item, agenda item number 15, adjournment. Be it so resolved the Board of Education adjourns the meeting at 7:58 p.m. May I have a motion? >> So moved. >> Moved by Trustee Beltowski. May I have
068a support? >> Supported by Trustee Anderson. Roll call, please. >> Trustee Anderson. >> Yes. >> Trustee Beltowski. >> Yes. Trustee Dyrek. >> Yes. >> Trustee Stevanovic. >> Yes. >> Trustee Winless. >> Yes. >> Motion carries. Good night, everyone. Drive safe.