001100 ft of any school building. Please rise for the pledge. District clerk, will you please take role? Trusty Kunen here. Trusty Jerome here. Trusty Mitchell Morell here. Trusty Goodrich here. Trusty Hammingway Lynch here. Trusty Romano here. Trusty Bishop here. Thank you. Thank you. the board of education will award tenure. Uh we're going to start the tenure discussion off with um the administrators talking a little bit about all of our tenure folks. Good evening. Um I just wanted to say before we begin a little just a few words about tenure. Uh achieving tenure is a significant milestone in a teacher's professional journey. It represents not only a recognition of excellence in teaching but also a deep trust placed in the educator by their school community. Tenure is granted after rigorous evaluation process over several years during
002which teachers demonstrate their instructional skill, commitment to student learning, professional conduct, and the ability to grow and adapt in their practice. Earning tenure is not an end point, but a new beginning. One that invites teachers to continue growing, leading, and inspiring. Um, and we have an incredible group this evening that I know will absolutely live up to that. So, I'm going to start um and recognize our middle school teachers. I feel like I need to turn this. If uh Mr. Sanders would like to join me, [Applause] Mr. Sanders came to Antou from Takonic Hills where he was a tenure technology teacher. He has been uh at Antura Middle and High School since September of 2022. Mr. Sanders is a pleasure to work with and is always willing to help in any way. His rapport with
003students makes him a beloved teacher in our district. Since coming to Antou, Mr. Sanders has volunteered often. He freely assists science olympiads, chaperones often, and is always willing to cover a class when called upon. He also stepped in and joined the facilities committee um and has always wonderful uh input on that committee. Uh in the spring, he was an assistant coach for modified track and also covered homework help and fills in wherever needed. He often stays after school to help students complete projects and regularly attends uh students extracurricular activities. Mr. Sanders technology expertise and experience has been a huge asset to the students of Antoura. He has updated the curriculum and technology including but not limited to integrating robotics and CAD programming at the middle school level. He has created a welcoming and up-to-date classroom
004environment. And so, uh, because of all of those things, we are very pleased to bestow tenure on Mr. Sanders. Congratulations. Uh, is Miss Pretty here? [Applause] Miss Prey began her career at Ontario Middle School as a leave replacement in November of 2020, but on August 1st, 2021, she was hired in a probationary tenure track position because we got very lucky. For the past four years, she has filled the role as middle school science teacher and most recently a living environment teacher. She has also taken it upon herself to get certified in physics which is uh as Miss Laughen said to me earlier, you are a unicorn. We are incredibly incredibly lucky and you are an asset to our students and the district. Um and it has been our pleasure watching Miss Prody evolve in her
005teaching career. Her background was in quality control in manufacturing plants. She has brought the real world experience to the classroom. She often highlights for students all the job opportunities that science has to offer. During her time here, she has embraced the recent New York State inquirybased standards in science. She has helped rewrite our middle school science curriculum, which includes being acutely accustomed on the latest required science labs in grades six, seven, and eight. And she integrates technology regularly in her daily lessons and also works on in increasing rigor in her classes. During her time here, she has been an integral part of the middle school community. She is the assistant coach for science olympiad, attends field trips with enthusiasm, and frequently volunteers to cover classes and supervision needs. And so based on all of that,
006we are very, very pleased to bestow tenure on Miss Friday. Next up is Miss Amanda Allison. You gonna No. Oh, I'm so sorry. Gabriel Gabriel Gabriel Bono, your name is there. Both of your names were there. Thank you, Trusty Bishop. Um, Miss Allison offered to step in for me, but I I told her I would do it. So, sorry for the confusion. It's my fault. Um, I'm going to start off with u Miss Johnny. Katie, you want you gonna come up? You want to stand up? Just stand up. Miss Jonah loves the attention. So, so if all of you could just look at her right now, she just absolutely loves a spotlight. Don't glare too much because I'm bald. We don't want to blind our everybody in the in the auditorium. So, uh, Miss John
007began her career at in Phoenicia Elementary in 20ou in 2019 as a monitor. Um, she was then hired as a teaching assistant in July 2021. Last year, Miss John was transferred to Bennett, uh, as a fourth grade self-contained teaching assistant under the direction of Miss Morris, who was the teacher of the class. Um, they presented us um, as a seamless team. Miss Janna was extremely independent and acclimated well to uh Bennett when it was Bennett last year. It's a totally different school this year as everybody knows. She um offered to be an afterchool adviser and taught students sign language last year and she also taught some of the staff. We all jumped in and all learned a little bit of sign language. Um it was extremely popular. She's extremely popular among the students and staff.
008Um, and we all learn from Katie every day. Uh, this year I purposely moved her to away from Miss Morris and into Miss Gordon's class because I knew Miss Gordon was going to be on maternity leave. Um, and this is just a strength to Miss Johnson uh, for all that she is as a teaching assistant. Um, and um, excuse me, I've lost my place here. I did so because she possesses um so many skills and her educational experience um allowed us to take advantage of Miss Gordon's void. In addition to her assignment this year, Miss John has volunteered to be our yearbook adviser. You see her often at every event taking photos and she's also a very active member of our PBIS team. Miss Johnny continues to prove that she has a strong work ethic
009and is dedicated to our students. Uh she is a tremendous asset to Bennett and to this district. I'm proud to say that she's part of our community and so glad that she's getting tenure. [Applause] Mr. Adam Blank, [Applause] wherever you want, sir. He doesn't embarrass as easily as as Miss John. Um anyway, uh Mr. Blank began his career at Bennett Elementary School in 2019. Um he was transferred to Bennett and um I don't have the pleasure of saying I hired him, but uh his natural leadership and playful interactions with students um are extremely evident to everyone. Um and uh he's he's been a part of our therapeutic crisis team and part of the the MAPS team. He is extremely well trained. Um he's so appropriate and he's able to manage very difficult situations. In previous
010years, he served as a drama director for us at at Bennett. Um, the staff often appreciates and continues to use his theatrical skills to gain the attention of long large groups. He can bellow. Um, Mr. Blank's extremely popular among students. He's very well respected. Thank you for that. Uh, he is u a pleasure to work with. Um he has such a pleasant demeanor, a very strong work worth strong worth work ethic. I can say that. Um and and dedication. He he's truly truly an asset. And I have to say that he's the only teaching assistant to go on a slip and slide with me and and join in the fun with the students. So um we actually have a photo of that, but we can't reveal it in public. Uh it's without hesitation and and
011great honor and pride that Mr. Blank be a full member of our faculty [Music] Mr. Muggy [Applause] Mr. Muggy is our ENL teacher and uh he began his career in 2021. Um and he was in third grade in Phoenicia way back when. Um he's co-taught in social studies and science uh at at Bennett. In 2022 23 he was in first grade and third grade over Woodstock. Um last year he was in kindergarten and second grade both at Woodstock and then fifth grade at Bennett. Um, and and I'm just happy to say this year he's full-time at Bennett and and just um making sure every student at every grade level is succeeding. I'm sure you're happy not to be driving all over the district for the first time. Uh, I find Mr. Muggy to be an
012honest and forthright individual who is a consmate team player. He adds to the positive culture and climate of the entire school by creating interactive uh student faculty bulletin board every single year. Um it's thematically different every year in which professionals post material and students have to guess on different features. this year. Um, he's taken pictures, close-ups of our eyes, and the students have to guess what teacher teachers eyes are posted on on the board. Yes, I I can't even recognize my own eyes. So, um, it's it's well done. The kids absolutely love love that. Um, he also helps with dismissal every single day. um he just joins in and he helps give directions if we have buses that are late and um make sure that he helps teachers get the kids to where they need
013to be. Um it's with great pride and pleasure that Rich is a part of the Bennett faculty. I'm happy to have you aboard. I'm happy to have you here too. Richard Muggy. Everybody take your time, Mr. Richards. I was waiting to be cold. [Applause] So, I'm gonna have Jessica Kowalsski come down. [Applause] She also loves the attention. Um, I am honored to recommend Jessica Kowalsski for tenure in the Antior Central School District. Miss Kowalsski has proven herself to be an exceptional teaching assistant who brings remarkable dedication and skill to our elementary classrooms. Throughout her tenure, she has consistently demonstrated an extraordinary ability to support students, particularly in kindergarten and the first grade settings. Her professional journey showcases not just confidence, but a genuine passion for education that goes far beyond the typical job expectations. What
014sets Miss Kowolski apart is her remarkable communication skills and her deeply student centered approach. She has an intuitive understanding of individual student needs, adapting her support to ensure each child receive personalized attention. Her versatility is evident in her seamless transitions from substitute monitor to full-time teaching assistant while always maintaining a high standard of professional excellence. Her collaborative spirit and commitment to student development make her an invaluable member of our school community. Miss Kowalsski does not simply fulfill her job requirements. She goes above and beyond creating meaningful meaningful connections with her students, supporting teaching staff, and contributing to the overall positive learning environment of Woodstock Elementary. Uh it is with absolute confidence I recommend Jessica Kowalsski for tenure. [Applause] Erica. [Applause] Um, so I wanted to enthusiastically recommend Erica McClean for tenure. Since joining Antior Central
015School District after graduating from the College of St. Rose, Miss McClean has consistently demonstrated exceptional teaching skills and a profound commitment to student learning. Miss McClean has proven herself to be an outstanding educator, skillfully teaching fourth and fifth grade mathematics, science, and social studies. Her ability to incorporate innovative hands-on learning experiences sets her apart as an exceptional teacher. From engaging projects about local history to interactive science fair demonstrations, she creates dynamic learning environments that inspire student curiosity and academic growth. Her deep understanding of learning standards combined with her creative instructional approach enables students to collaborate effectively and make significant academic progress. Miss McClean's classroom is a model of educational excellence characterized by thoughtful small group work, meaningful co-eing strategies, and a genuine passion for student development. As her principal, I can confidently state that Miss
016McClean is not just a teacher, but a true educational leader who will continue to positively impact our school community. I wholeheartedly recommend her for tenure. [Applause] The following named instructional personnel having served a period of probationary status consistent with the education law of the state of New York and provisions of the commissioner's regulations and having received continuing satisfactory evaluations of performance are hereby recommended by the superintendent of schools for approval for tenure status with a probationary period of 7:15 2022 to 7:14 2025. Certified Technology Teacher Douglas Sanders hereby receives tenure on 7:15 [Applause] with a probationary period of 7:15 20 I'm sorry starting over with a probationary period of 81201 to 7:31 2025 certified science teacher Shaina Prey Yeti hereby receives tenure on 812025 with a probationary period of 812021 to 7312025. Certified teaching assistant
017Adam Blank hereby receives tenure on 812025 [Applause] with a probationary period of 812021 to 7:31 2022. Certified Teaching Assistant Katherine Jonnan hereby receives tenure on 812025 with the probationary period of 912021 to 8:31 2025. Certified teaching assistant Jessica Kowaloski hereby receives tenure on 912025. With a probationary period of 912021 to 8:31 2025, certified elementary teacher Erica Mlan hereby receives tenure on 912025 [Applause] with a probationary period of 91201 to 8:31 2025. 5 certified ENL teacher Richard Muggy hereby receives tenure on 91205. May I have a first? Trusty Romano second. Trustee Hemingway Lynch. Any questions or comments? All in favor? Congratulations. [Applause] Uh the next section of our agenda is about retirement and we have a an incredible group of retirees here tonight. So I wanted to just say a few words. Uh today we gather
018to recognize and celebrate the retirement of our long long-erving administrator, teachers, and staff, individuals who have dedicated their careers to shaping the hearts and minds of our students. Your years of service have left an indelible mark on our schools and community. You've nurtured curiosity, supported growth, and guided countless students toward their full potential. Whether in the classroom, the office, the library, or behind the scenes, your work has been the foundation of our district's success. Retirement marks the close of one chapter and the beginning of another. While we will deeply miss your presence, wisdom, and care, we are filled for with gra gratitude for the legacy you leave behind. A legacy of compassion, commitment, and unwavering service. So, on behalf of the entire district, thank you. We do wish you joy, rest, and new adventures, which
019I'm sure there will be lots of. Uh, and you will always be a part of the fabric of this community. We are going to um go through and call each retiree up and and give you a gift and wish you well in your retirement. The board of education here uh hereby recognizes the retirees. Effective 83124. Dorothy Gmbion, custodial worker. [Applause] effective 111 2024. Margarite Ample typist [Applause] effective 531 2025 Rebecca Evans senior typist effective 6:30 2025. Melanie A House, teaching assistant effective 6:30 2025. Richard Derubo, science teacher. effective 6:30 2025. Patricia Knight, cook manager. [Applause] effective 6:30 2025. Leanne Cune, special education teacher. [Applause] Effective [Applause] 6:30 2025. Karen McKenna, elementary orchestra director. [Applause] Effect. Effective 6:30 2025. Sharon McCannernney, second grade teacher. [Applause] effective 6:30 2025. Shelley Savachi, librarian Effective 6:30 2025. Deer deer
020Shimlfenig, assistant principal. [Applause] effective 6:30 2025. Sandra Schultz, teaching assistant. [Applause] And the board of education thanks student representative Olivia McHugh for her service. And now we have a 20 minute break for a celebration. There are uh cookies outside in the hallway, I believe. Refreshments and refreshments. Item 4.01, we are going to hear from our architect and construction manager and to have a discussion with the board. Members of Kark Patterson Lee and Schoolhouse Constructions, Stephanie Wises, Wisnoski, CJ Goodwin, and Eric Robert will be available to answer questions from the board regarding the capital project. Welcome. Hi everybody. CJ Goodman with Schoolhouse. Eric apologizes he was unable to make it. Hi everyone, Stephanie Wneski with CPL. So, how would we like to do this? Um, do you want us to read our questions and then uh
021when we I guess when we go through these questions if there are any further questions we could just ask them? Absolutely. All right. Okay. I'll start off. Um, how would eliminating the 10 classrooms, library upgrades, cafeteria upgrades, and security vestibule at Bennett uh in the from the Bennett construction plan affect our New York State building aid? I can answer that one. So, your building aid units are determined based on your classroom count, um, which is based on your enrollment numbers. So if you weren't to do the 10 classrooms, you wouldn't get any building aid on the other work because the classrooms are the most aided component and that's how SED determined your building aid for elementary grade level. It's by the general classroom numbers. So if all your population were to be in Bennett, your
022enrollment numbers would support the need for those additional classrooms, thus maximizing the amount of building aid you would get. So, if you take the classrooms out, you're potentially going to affect the aid you would get for the other renovations you would want to do there, like the gym edition, um, or the music classroom edition, stuff like that. Thank you. And then trustees, as you see your questions on on the sheet, please feel free to go ahead and just read your questions. you'll pro okay so I'm just so that I understand so New York state awards funding for classrooms in particular and but you said it could potentiallyffect and I understand the piece about how if we have a bigger cohort at Bennett there'll be more children to build more classrooms for but you said it
023might it would potentially affect other things like the gym or the this or the that and I'm so I'm there's is a little I'm trying to put together how the aid is for classrooms, but it could potentially do other things. Could could you explain that to me? So, you get the most building aid on instructional space, which would be your classrooms. You'd still get some percentage of aid for other work, renovation work, such like that. But as a whole for your project, when you're looking at the project as a whole, the most aid you're getting is on those classrooms. So, if you take the classrooms out, the amount of aid you're going to get is going to go down. And I'll just add classrooms are the cheapest things typically to build. So you usually gain
024a little bit of cash as you build the more classrooms and you can use that to pay for the difference of other instructional spaces. So yeah, that was a question. So you can once you're allotted your funding you as long as you fulfill your requirement of building the classrooms you can you can put it towards other things. Okay. Trusty Goodrich did you have a question? Okay Trusty Lynch I just want to say thank you. This could go on forever, so I promise to stick to the script. But it just it just raised a question for me. Then the other um proposals, the other proposed spaces at the elementary school, um are are they any of those considered instructional spaces then? Or or when you say instructional, does that just mean an actual classroom? like would
025could you consider you know um uh PE that you know for the gym or that kind of thing part of the instructional work? Yeah, it's it gets some aid. It's just not going to get as much as a general classroom just the way that SED figures it out. It's a percentage. Yeah. So our our building aid percentage for our district was always sort of quoted as 30 31% roughly. So does that mean is that 31% number actually an average of I I don't understand if it depends on what you're building like if if classrooms are rated at a higher rate. Is that is that number higher than 31% and others are lower? How do we get to 31% that way? That percentage I believe stays the same. What changes is when they look at the
026project as a whole that you submit up to the state for their review when they reevaluate your aid. It's based on enrollment. The enrollment number with elementary schools, the enrollment number they look at and then they figure out based on that enrollment how many classrooms you are allowed to have. And then you get building aid units per classroom and that's what helps determine the overall aid on that building or that ex scope of work I should say. Um so it kind of depends a little bit on what project you're doing on how much aid you're going to get on that project but I think your 31% number stays that that that's something that's determined from the state by other factors. How is the budget of Bennett affected if the 10 classrooms 10 new classrooms are
027not built? If the building is not being outfitted for additional students, would any of the other renovations of Bennett be reduced or removed? If the classrooms are not to be built with this proposition, but possibly in the future, could we still add on the security vestibule and other additions to the side of the building where the safety lane will be and in the future add five or 10 new classrooms to the north side of the building or elsewhere? You can start. Okay. Yeah, I'm sorry. We would save the cost of the classrooms for sure because you wouldn't build them. Um, but the aid part would be less as Stephanie had. because it would be moving what's been included in the project for other planned classrooms and then uh the security vestible can be done at
028whatever point wherever you whether you have the classrooms or not we could always do an addition that's just the security vestibule too um or I think we've discussed the existing entry you could become the secure vestibule I'm sorry become the secure vestibule where it is So I think for Bennett uh our security vestibule was on the far if you're looking at the building from down below on the far left hand side but that was assuming we were going to put 10 classrooms over there right so if we didn't build the classrooms we'd have to put the security vestibules someplace closer in. And then if when we built the the classrooms, we'd have to move the security vestibule to the left if that's where we wanted it. Correct. That could be one option. Um, from my
029understanding, the thought was always to still have that existing main entrance used for buses. So, if you were to put a security vestibule there now, if you're not doing the 10 classroom edition, you could potentially still be using that as your entrance for your bus route. Even if you were to build the 10 classroom edition down the road, we wouldn't necessarily move it or demolish that work that was done, but there is an option. You could potentially build the security vestibule on that far left side where the classroom addition was proposed with the new um drop off loop safety lane for visitors in a refined layout where maybe not all the classrooms were built but maybe only a few classrooms. There's there's a ton of different options you can do for reducing the number of
030classrooms and still have that security entrance at that in original location that we were anticipating. So getting back to the uh so let's say instead of putting in 10 classrooms we put in four. Now does that mean we're going to get less age for the gym? Is that the way that works out? It's not really a straight answer. I mean, with SED, it's kind of like working with them that, you know, you kind of got to work with them. Show them your intentions, what you're planning to do, what what the master plan is. You know, the earlier we talk with SED. Um, part of the process is there's a whole preliminary review submission that has to be done for any additions on the school. And that's when you really would work with SED to show
031them the plan, to figure out the aid that they would give. And if you're not if they're you're not happy with their response, you can you can work with them and you know engage and prove your need for that space and then hope they would give you the aid you were anticipating. It it sounds like SED is unpredictable or you know just it can be. Um I'm just curious how they look at projects. So you go to them with a master plan sort of a vision. Do they look at you know how the do they do their own look at the district and is it widely supported? Do they care like once they grant the money are they are they are they also investing in the future of the district I guess is what I'm
032asking. Is that the kind of participation or is it just like it falls on us working with the district of what your architect and coming up there's certain guideline for documents they want as part of that preliminary review submission. So they'll ask for what they call a facilities needs assessment letter from the district. They'll want your enrollment um studies submitted um uh estimates for the pro scope of work. um just they ask for a lot of information to help them in determining that. They have formulas for how they determine the aid um based on the enrollment and things like that. So, as long as we're hitting what they're asking for, I don't see a reason why we wouldn't get the maximum aid for the project as we're putting it up to them anticipating. Um it
033would only be if like the enrollment didn't support the project. But that's something that we work with the district to look at to make sure the project we're putting forward would hopefully be supported by SED. I'm trying to uh I don't know if I can put this in words, but like uh so it's pretty objective. They're just looking for straight answers. It is a very bureaucratic process sort of. There's no like there's no like this is why we're doing it. Oh, that sounds like an amazing thing for your students. They should have. It's meant to be unbiased. I Okay, great. That answers my question. Thank you. Okay. Many, excuse me, many community members shared concerns via exit polling, social media, and front door conversations about the $70.5 million bond in terms of how elaborate the
034proposed upgrades were. Inspirational add-ons like the food truck hookup, an art gallery in the Bennett entrance, and a student commons midcampus were a few items that were really concerned some of our more senior community members who are perhaps on fixed incomes. What items could we trim from the current prop that wouldn't impact educational success? So the food truck hookups um the um student comments whether we reduce classrooms or things like that. I mean parking lot areas. The other challenge with that particular question is a lot of our pieces sort of are symbiotic with other pieces. So for the addition we have to do certain things. The addition takes up a parking lot in the playground area that has to move you know and then the circulation has to happen for that. So, a lot of
035those pieces sort of tie together. Um, there are certainly areas where we can work to adjust modify the budget. I mean, with the vote going down that you kind of have the opportunity to sort of rethink that process and listen to what the voters have said and sort of put together a new idea. Um, and we would be part of helping in that process. But, um, the other easy piece is if you want to do pieces of things, which is part of what question is that's always a possibility. It's just with certain things like the food truck, the cheapest part of that process is literally the outlet. Digging, putting a conduit in the ground, waiting to put the wire in, and actually the outlet, that's probably the cheapest piece. But digging through the site, putting
036the conduit in and leaving it for the future, that's probably still the more expensive piece. Is it 90% 10%? No. Is it more like 6040? Probably. Do you want to take that one, Clark? Okay. Given that New York State Education Department designates middle school as grades five through eight, what would be the cost of preparing onto our middle school high school to receive fifth graders? Uh, I couldn't support this move unless there was a clear physical boundary between middle school and high school. Would we need to build a separate gym, locker rooms, cafeteria, auditorium, counseling suite, nurses office, principal office, etc.? What would that cost be? I understand that we may not have the luxury of upgrades should we lose several million dollars in New York State foundation aid. And the bullet will Architects need
037to have time to design the 5 through8 changes to middle school and how long would that take to show us inspirational early drafts of that architectural changes? Clark, before Stephanie answers a chunk of that, I guess my one question is when you say a separation, do you mean fifth through 8th would never interact with 9 through 12 as in there'd be a physical separation in the building and duplication of everything or is there some middle ground in that? I really wrote the beginning of that um question. Sorry. And I guess I'm just thinking that, you know, there are times there are shared hallways, you know, that's why I asked for for students to get from, you know, point A to like the cafeteria or to the library, things like that. And I think that during
038hightra times, um, you know, it it could be a little intimidating for fifth graders to be in the halls with seniors. So that was my question. I don't I don't know what it would look like, but I just wondered if if there's a possibility that something like that could happen. Yeah. From my experience, I was trying to be facitious, but could do almost anything, right? It's a question of time and money and whether that actually works with your community. Um, I went to a school 7th through 12th all all in one building. So, I was with 9th, 10th, 11th, 12th graders. um intimidating, no, but if you had older siblings, you always have that dynamic. Um we also always rode the same bus, which I suspect would happen in this case regardless of whether it
039was five, six, seven, and eight. Um, but the other thing I was going to add is in my time doing K through 12, I don't know of a ton of conjoined buildings that don't share kitchen, cafeteria, gymnasium, auditorium, nurse, main office, but not necessarily. There may be a middle school principal, but you know what I mean. There may be separate social workers, psychology, all that stuff, but a lot of those are still shared inside of the building. Um, and then there's a whole aid piece of that. do with what is designated for middle school versus high school and population and all that. So, it's not by any means impossible. Um, I think it's a little more complicated in this building, but it just depends on what you guys really want to do at that point.
040Sorry, I think you hit it unless there's additional questions. I think he hit it. I mean, we have to watch with separating um the grade levels, too. If you want actual barriers, we have to look into like making sure we're not creating dead-end corridors and things like that. So, we might not be physically able to put up these walls partitions to separate them because we have to leave that option for fire safety to get out of the building to move around the building freely. So, it's going to come down to more of a logistics and like how the school operates and if the students are aware of where they can and can't go. when you start to try to really separate them with permanent barriers, you know, you might need more space and you don't
041really have the space on the site right at that middle school high school location. Yeah, I um yeah, you've given this question a lot of thought and I have different ideas about it now, but you made a really good point, CJ, in that they would be riding the bus together, right? So, um you know that there's no separation there. Um, you know, I mean, there can be separation obviously on a bus, younger kids in the front, older kids in the back or whatever, but um but you know, there's just a lot to consider, but thank you for um planting that seed. Any anybody else? Yeah. I just wanted to offer that my kids went to a 512 school and they shared the cafeteria and it was just completely separate lunch periods and it worked. Okay.
042Okay. And my the question that just popped into my head is for the admin, are our middle and high schoolers on identical bell schedules right now? And do they have to be? And I'm wondering if a solution like if you're worried about in the traffic in the halls, if if you offset the middle and high school bells by five minutes, that could solve that problem right there. I guess that would really depend on how much of the overlap you share, right? If you overlap in gym, that difference could be a huge offset of a problem between a high school gym class coming in first period and a middle school class coming in second period and depends on how much flexibility you have in your building at that point. It also um impacts shared staff. Okay.
043We have we have teachers who teach in both buildings. I see. Okay. I'll read this one. Uh what would you predict is this is this a safe timeline for adjusting and debating a new proposition before increased material and construction cost impact moving forward with an amended proposition. I still um sorry it really depends on what you guys decide to do going forward. So we escalated for the $70 million project through I want to say 28 you know planning that construction completing by that time. If you land in that same window probably won't affect you very much. If you push past that window it you would escalate for each year you push past that. If we delay the start you again we've kind of planned for things happening in that amount of time. I think you
044would still be okay. It really depends on what the total time frame looks like. If we go from four years down to two, you may technically save some money depending on your perspective of how this process works. Um, but the harder part of that is is not knowing what is actually the thing that we're doing. Does that make sense? So like I said with the elementary school in Bennett, a lot of those things have to happen sort of in a sequence because the wall has had to go in to retain the grade then the addition and then sort of all the other stuff after that. So that could have a huge effect on how that works too. Go ahead. Um, so I understand that idea of ganging stuff up and that everything changes. So, you
045know, if you do it closer to the wind, but I I'm curious also, um, because you do this all the time, like what would be what is a good timeline like because we also just need it to pass and for the community to feel whole about it and you know, so what's realistic even, you know, because obviously people aren't making completely just decisions based on numbers, right? There's a lot of emotion. So like on your experience like what does that normally look like? What have you seen before? What could we expect? So if your question is when is the right time to vote again? Um just the time I think what was the question? Um a safe timeline for adjusting and debating a new proposition is um did that mean vote? I didn't read that.
046That's okay. Yeah, that's why we're here. Can ask many questions. Yeah, like Yeah, I would assume a new vote. Yeah, I would a new proposition before the public. Yeah, I mean, we talked a little bit about that when we sort of prepped for this. Um, you know, I've had success with December votes. I don't typically see a lot of success after the holiday. Most people have sort of spread all their good cheer by the holiday and then they're recovering from that from January until whenever. Um fall typically works okay. I think for what you guys want to do I think this coming fall probably too soon. December depends on what you are talking about is this 5 million 10 million 20 million. You know what I mean? depends on what it's actually comprised of and
047then it depends on the process with the public. Um, I will compliment you guys again because I've done this before, but you guys did one of the most comprehensive public engagement processes I have ever been a part of in a public vote. Um, you know what I mean? You guys did a really good job getting information out there and being present and answering questions and having people be where they needed to be. just unfortunately didn't pass. It just hap it happens unfortunately. But um if you want to go through that same process, I don't think you're going to do that safely in five months. And then there's the 45day window of the vote is December 12th. It's got to be 45 days before that when you guys put the proposition forward question. Okay. So yeah,
048I mean it did it did it said you said December would be festine, right? Yeah, I would do I would do before December or after December and I would do and when I say that I mean I would do before December or May. Okay. Does that make sense? Right. Okay. And yeah, I think I was just asking about we did do everything um we could and yet we still have this thing that we've got to get through. So, I'm trying to like figure out what a realistic timeline looks like. What a timeline that we'd all love it to be aggressive, right? We'd all love it to be this fall, but like is that realistic? Um, I think it depends on the total. If you're going to do another 60 million, I think that might be
049hard for people to wrap around in that time frame, especially with I assume a lot of people vacation in the summer. Most of that time of discussions publicly would happen at that Because if you did a September or October vote, you're really talking about a proposition through your board in August or September, that gets a little complicated. Some of the feedback we got um was about the re the the how realistic the timeline was. some folks were quite worried just given external factors that are out of our control. And I'm wondering if you could help us uh lay that out because from my first impression from when we met was that we were actually padding the timeline. We actually have more time than we needed if this were to have passed this in in this
050past May. I think this question touches on it a little bit, but I think it would be really helpful if everybody could hear from you what the implementation looks like between a vote and let's assume it's a yes vote to a completion. Does that make sense? It does. Um, so again, asterisk, a $5 million project, totally different timeline than 70. Where it gets hard is sometimes a $20 million project can take the same amount of time as a $70 million project. If that makes any sense at all. Depends on what the pieces of that project are. For you guys, I think we had a very comfortable timeline with what you had planned for voting in May, giving CPL time to actually do their design work safely and correctly before we vote. So when we talk
051about voting days in May, that's like the worst time for them to vote because it really only gives them four to fiveish months to do whatever we want to try to do first to design and get through SED to get your building permit. So right now SEDD is like one or two weeks for review for architectural mechanical review. at the time of the vote or before that it was seven months. So that's the other sort of hard thing to gauge through here. If that stays at one or two weeks, they could really work till November, let it get reviewed through the holiday and then we could bid in late January, February. That's, you know, ideal. Um, but a lot of times we're working through what SED's current timeline is. Um, so that's the first part.
052After that, if we hit a January time frame, it's a lot easier to get things from April to June than it is if we're bidding in March or April, getting things from June to July to August. So, that's the other part where if you have neighboring districts that have those struggles, it's not because nobody did what they were supposed to do. It's because maybe SED was seven months and you can't bid until you get approval, which is April or May. And you're sort of pushing yourself through that process. We had a pretty good idea of what we wanted to do right away so that we could show work being done that first summer. Roofs, that retaining wall, things that are mostly easy to get had to happen first anyway. And then that gave us time
053for the additions to sort of follow that. The hard part with Bennett was once the additions were done, we still have the gym and the kitchen and the cafeteria. Those would have been the most complicated pieces depending on if the kitchen physically had to change its orientation. So serving line was in one spot, kitchen in another. We gave ourselves the most amount of time we could to work through how does a kitchen function when it can't be done in July and August. Kitchens typically take six to seven months when you're making that drastic of a change. How does that really work in that timeline? And that's sort of what gave us that extra look of time. That's why we pushed everything out a little bit. Um, so whatever we choose to do, we'll go through
054that same process. We're going to give ourselves a safe amount of time because nobody wants me to stand here in August and go, "Hey, we need 12 more months because windows took 25 weeks and not eight." That might happen anyway, but it depends. where we start from. So, knowing that, you're suggesting that uh the board consider a new proposition for vote. You said either in the fall or May of next year, and we'd still be on a somewhat of a of the same timeline, implementation timeline, but no later than May, right? Depending on what's in that. So if you push it another year and it's 60 million, we'll probably have to gain a year of escalation for 28 or 29 at that point. If it's five million between you're going to vote for, you could
055probably do that sooner depending on what it is. We could probably do that fairly quickly. It just depends on what the actual work is. Thank you. Trusty Goodrich, do you want to read those next couple of questions? I think you wrote those. Uh, and you may have already answered this, but uh, instead of 10 additional classrooms for Bennett, how much does building only six classrooms there save us? And, uh, Sarah wanted to know what is the answer to this question if the six classrooms are specifically designed for K through one with the bathrooms. So, I did do a quick look at that when I saw this question. Um, I think the nice thing the way L had structured that addition. Most of those classrooms that had bathrooms were sort of to the lower front side
056of that. And there were four classrooms to the back that I pretty much was able to just take that square footage off. Um, I don't know how much of you remember the actual layout, but there was a connector hallway that connected that back wing to basically the front of the building. I kept that as well, so you would still have that connection. So really, it was just deleting those four classrooms, keeping the outside bathrooms, the main office stayed the art room was still there. So, we saved about 3,000 square feet, which was or 3200 square feet, which is about 1.3 million conservatively. I did that just based on the square footage. So, I mean, it's a decent change, but there's a asterisk to that in that now that that's smaller, maybe the boiler room can
057be smaller, which will still save us more because we had increase the boiler room size to take on what was 15,000 square feet or 17,000 square feet at that point. Maybe we don't need all of that boiler room to do that. That can be more savings at that point. Sorry, but as I understood from earlier, if we got rid of four classrooms, the building aid would go down somewhat, right? So, how much of that one point whatever would be offset by lost building? So, you want you want to go first? You want me to do my spiel of it? It depends. So, you would still get full aid on the classrooms you are building. You just aren't getting aid on the ones you are building, but you're not building them. So, you don't have that
058cost anymore. So you don't need the aid to fund that construction cost essentially. Keep going here. Okay. Following question. Assuming we have two propositions where the goal is still to eventually implement the original full proposition two that failed. Uh let's say we had a proposition 1A that contains all or most of the elementary work and another proposition 2A that contains all or most of the secondary, middle school, high school and the campus site work. Uh would it be possible to move the Bennett uh window replacement um 3,674,000 uh to Proposition 2A assuming Proposition 1A will eventually be implemented in the future? Yeah, you could you could do that. You can move the windows to middle school, high school as long as it's packaged together with that work at like when it goes out to bid.
059Um, if you were to do two separate projects, and correct me if I'm wrong, CJ, that's where more cost would come in because you'd be bidding it out twice. As long as you tie it in to the work that's going on at the middle school high school, you could put in replacing the windows at Bennett and where those windows are located that need replacement aren't in areas where the addition's really going. So, it's not like you'd be doing work that would then be ripped out later because the addition is to the left side where none of those windows really are. Okay, thank you. Yeah, that answers that. So that's good. If only proposition 2A passes without 1A, would what would be the increased cost if 1A were implemented at a later time? I mean depends
060on how later the later time is. Yeah. So all depends. Yeah, it depends. So escalation varies every year. Um, you know, for right now, even with tariffs and stuff, we're looking at three to 5%. Some years it's four to seven, you know what I mean? It really depends on what's happening in the world at the time. So, even that could change between now and 2027, you know, but we track that as we go and we keep our pulse on that with elections and all that fun stuff. Um, so if we were to revamp this whole piece of everything, we would recalculate what we're looking at. So I have be able to actually tell you. So it wouldn't be cheaper. It It's nothing will ever be cheaper the longer you wait. No prices have ever gone
061down in my entire time doing this. So this uh so if 1a fails, what is the cost of building a security vestibular at Bennett which would probably need to be replaced and moved in the future. So we talked about that already. So I think I have the answer to that. Um, other considerations we need to be aware of when proposing two propositions. Legally, I believe proposition one has to pass for proposition two to pass. Correct. That was Sarah. So, I'm sorry that's Sarah's question. No, it's it's just good for us to discuss, but there was there's different strategies to having multiple propositions. So, if we had one, two, three, four even. Um what I understand from your response is that they we can structure it that they can be independent. It's not that we have
062to pass prop one in order to realize Prop 2 or for Prop 2 to realize Prop 3. So that was just a helpful distinction for me because we had that conversation a while ago, but then we ended up putting everything in one huge proposition. And so I just wanted to better understand what our options are as a board as we think about trying to un obviously meet um the needs and the necessary updates but also help um our community understand that we recognize um there you know there are different interests here. So thank you for helping us sort that out. So is there um any reason from an architectural point of view why Prop 1A uh Ben Elementary 2A uh be dependent on the others to pass from an architectural point of view? They don't
063have to be. It really comes down to how the district wants to put the propositions forward. I don't think what you are proposing to do in 1A versus 2B is dependent on each other. They could be separate and done at separate times. I mean, I I know you don't have the dirt guy here, but I was thinking there might be an issue with, you know, something with the drainage or whatever. Is there anything there? No, I think that was um the elementary school side of the addition um which was incorporated in that cost. I think the only other thing that was between the two buildings was the electrical going up through um which was the new electrical service that would have been sorry I keep doing that needed with um Bennett when we do the
064additions um between the gym and the classrooms. Let's just take a second. I I see the superintendent has her mic in her hand and uh and so does Trusty Kudson. I just wanted to mention the one the one um thing that we had talked about when we talked about whether to have one proposition or two was the the budget and being able to um share fiscal resources across the different scope so that if one bid came in higher than we had thought and one came in lower as long as it was one bucket of money we could still move forward with it. Whereas if it's two separate propositions, it's bid separately. Yes. Tracked separately and tracked separately and all the funding is separate. So if there are the same contractors for both propositions, it's still
065two separate bids. Yes. Yes. So we lose that efficiency of scale as well. You would Yeah. Correct. And then the complication of understanding multiple propositions at that point. And I was just going to say, I mean, it's not an architectural question, but it's it's also a question of district priorities and and fiscal planning um is the other reason to do that. So, um but that's not really an architectural question. Getting back to um superintendent's point there. Um so let's say you have you have two separate bonds and so the work has to go out as a separate bid. It can't be conjoined in any way. Not typically because it's harder to track the financials at that point. It's not impossible, but you would be in a situation where when you If proposition one is bid
066with proposition two, let's just say we did it. You had two separate votes. They ran mostly concurrent. CPL could get all of that design work done at one time. Let's say it's $20 million. 10 and 10. Um, if Proposition One finishes seven months sooner or let's say 12 months sooner than Proposition two, you'd have really no way to close out one, which would delay your aid coming for that proposition because you're still working on two and they're combined because they're still tracking through that that bidder has not closed out. So, when you go through your audit, when Monica does her piece of that, they're going to go, "Well, you just handed me a pay app that shows all this work done, but there's all this other stuff here. This contract's still open. There's nothing that
067says that more work can't be added. They're probably not going to let you close that out because they're combined." Does that make sense at all? It gets very very into the weeds of my process at that point. Yeah. Uh, I mean, I guess question is, so if you had two propositions, is it better to have two contractors or would it be better to have one contractor that's doing work on both propositions? So, I guess the question is maybe maybe I'm not understanding this, so I'm going to ask you guys a question. When you say two propositions, you mean still voted on the same day, but if prop one passes, you would just do prop one. If prop two passes, you would just do Prop Two. If both passed, you would do both. Is that what
068we're saying? Yeah. Then it wouldn't matter. Sorry, I I totally misunderstood that question. Then if you on May 10th vote for two propositions and they're not conjoined in order, as you had asked, they don't have to be, and you were to pass both. Okay. We could bid pieces of that as long as they were still Prop One pieces. Actually, it wouldn't I don't think um one second because it's still one vote. It's still one total of work. The proposition it's still one vote. Yeah. So if prop one is 10 million and prop two is 10 million, your total when you we would submit to SEDD would be 20, you would just show the proof of the different propositions. It wouldn't matter. You could actually we could do it the same way we do every other
069project. Sorry, I'm definitely confused this process. I apologize. So the contractors really it would be up to you guys at that point once you regardless of the propositions if they're voted on the same day you'd have one vote with a total. I don't think your propositions matter at that point. We could have fiscal advisors confirm my thinking, but I don't know that it would matter if you voted Prop One on May 10th and Prop Two on May 20th. That would be two separate pieces. Before we voted before, okay, you had said if we have two separate propositions, the money can't cross. If Yeah, but separate separate not voted on the same day separate. That's not what we then again we should talk with then. Okay. Maybe I'm Yeah. Um because I don't think it would
070matter. I really don't. Yeah, I may have been very wrong then. I think it has to deal with the date of the authorization of the project. Like if the project is broken up into different props, but they all were approved on the same date, voted on the same date, they all got approved. And you want to package one project that gets submitted to SED, you're going to show that backup of, you know, your voters um and you're going to give them the date of authorization of that project and all your funding where it's coming from. And then I think it's fine. From what I've experienced the past couple years, I don't think it I don't think it would have mattered. Yeah, we should. But we can talk with fiscal with you guys. I will 100%
071own my mistake. I just I don't I don't know that it would. Does that also mean that we could use the same contractor then across multiple propositions? You'd have it depends on how you bid. So if you bid them together as one project, which again you don't bid 70 million at once, right? But say like just for plumbing for example or just you know could you bid plumbing for the middle school, high school and elementary building projects even if they were split across four propositions. Yeah, you could. Yeah, I don't think that it I don't think that matters. Again, we should de double check at this point. Now I'm even less confident than I was before and I'm usually very confident about things. I guess I have some quick questions here. Um would eliminating the
072student common areas uh actually save that 1.5 million? Yeah, if we remove the whole thing, right? If we remove the line item that would depend on if there's any infrastructure pieces of that, which I don't think there were for the student comments. So So why was the uh upgrade to the east end parking lot, middle school, high school 2.2 million? It seems pretty high. I don't know. It was explain that one was That includes the demolition of the bus garage and any remediation that may be required from that. The remediation probably the biggest concern there potentially. Uh where are the work currently being performed in the bus garage? I don't know maybe this is a question for uh our superintendent. U if the bus garage goes away, where does that work go? I mean I
073see buses up on a lift today and you know where they going to do that work? We would have to lease space with someone locally. Now we got the open-ended question here uh for Clark, me, Sarah, and Rick and Megan. Do the architects have a list of other ideas to bring the cost down? So essentially it comes down to value engineering when we start designing the project. Um you could select lesser qual not quality but different finishes potentially. Um so sometimes you know you just go with VCT instead of LVT things like that. So it has to do with value engineering as we're designing. Um we can build in alternates and things like that to help you know track the cost and make sure we're not going over budget with the project. But the overall
074scope you have now, like CJ mentioned earlier, a lot of things kind of, you know, are a trickling effect. Like this has to happen in order for the addition to happen. So in order for the addition to go on Bennett, you have to move your playground. You and then because of that, you're losing parking. So there's some of the scope isn't as easily to just say we can take it off because a lot of it relies on something else happening. Um there some of the work in the middle school high school maybe the full main office suite renovation could that possibly come out if it's that is not as much of a need to save some cost potentially but that's not one of your larger cost items in the project. Um so we can look
075at things there are some ideas. It just depends on how much you really want to pull out and how that will affect your overall design and what you really wanted for the district. Yeah. So I think you know because you're our adviserss and as the people who are like working with us to achieve our vision I think that that's such a great question right so if you had to like from what you were saying it might be just materials right that's what you would choose that's where you would choose to to shave um but yeah I think as we continue this conversation or you know we' like would love to hear from you like maybe this piece we see is connected to a lot of other pieces. Um this is the end of that string,
076you know, maybe that goes or something because you know, you're going to probably have a much better idea of what those things look like than we do. Um just so I understand to clarify um let's say we we um were to look at I'm sorry what was the term value value engineering value engineering um but we wanted everything exactly what you know the first proposition said this hypothetical of course are you suggesting then that we could reduce the cost by up to $7 million just by looking at different types of materials bills. If the prop was 70 million and we're thinking about like a 10% reduction, is that accurate? I mean, it depends on how far you go with those items and it depends on Oh, sorry. Sorry. Depends on how far you go with
077those items and it depends on those items themselves. So, example, the cafeteria at Bennett, you know, that had a finish plan and a finish had a courtyard on the outside. We pull that courtyard completely out. If we don't remove the floor and put in a new floor, we just keep the gym floor, but maybe remove the gym striping. Those are all thing, you know, we're reusing a lot of things that are already there, you know, and just doing acoustical treatments instead of, you know, redesigning a space, maybe not putting a ceiling in and dealing with it acoustically. there's different options that find ways to save money, but they affect how that space looks when you walk into it. So, that's a big piece of whether that's which part is important. Thank you for those specifics.
078That's really helpful. Sure. Um there seems to be some immediate needs like the new track and the windows at the elementary school um that need to be addressed regardless. Um, can you for safety and because they're past their um, you know, their usable life, can you itemize the current list with what else needs to be done most urgently? And then looking at that list, are there any recommendations about how to leverage efficiencies across those items or are they just too desperate? So, this is that's something we could definitely do. So, we can look at your uh building condition survey now and I believe another one's to come up maybe in a year. You're due again in 2026, I think you said. So, we could look at the one you have now and determine what is
079left. We did look at that briefly with your facilities director, Kyle. Um, so we do have that list. We just would need some time to generate that for you and to really show what's been included in the prop and what's left and what hasn't been included. Um, I think when we looked at it early on, there didn't seem to be a ton at Bennett and the middle school high school that wasn't being addressed. Again, like the Bennett windows that we were looking into that some of the areas of concern, there's some roofing restoration. Um, some things like that, upgrades to fire alarm systems, I think, was a lot of the bigger things on the list. Um, but we can come up with that itemized list for you guys. We just need a little bit more
080time to do so. the new survey. Uh Rick and I were wondering, could we eliminate the new administrative office suite in the high school and repurpose rooms more economically for the private meeting spaces that are needed? Yeah, we could that area. We have to consider abatement. There's a lot of hazardous material in in that area in the ceilings. Um, but potentially, yeah, you could just do a part of it and not do the full admin suite renovation. You can just decide to take some of the spaces, repurpose them. It could be done even with furniture. Sometimes you can outfit a space just with furniture um to make it for a different use without doing a full extensive renovation with each building. Is it possible to be able to separate out the necessary upgrades identified by
081the BCS reports from wish list upgrades and improvements so that we can see how much of the proposed budgets of each building are absolutely necessary and which are not? Like you kind of answered that. Yeah, we can do that. That's similar to the previous question, but yes, that's something we can do. We just need a little bit more time to present that to you guys. Um, so people are sitting in our quite nice seats in our auditorium here. Um, and that so this created some confusion in the community about there's like I think a million dollars in the proposition for the auditorium and I was just wondering what critical functions were addressed in that milliondoll upgrade for this um, auditorium. Can some of those improvements be delayed without unduly hurting the arts programs? Were some
082of them aesthetic versus functional? So the auditorium upgrades u were mostly aesthetical in the in the bit in the budget. Okay. Thank you. What is the plan for sequencing the actual construction? We just talked about this a bit, but um if needed, could we finish the elementary school first and close Woodstock sooner in order to realize more savings sooner. If the additions were the way they were prevote, what we had planned for before, we could manipulate the schedule to do some of that. But again, there's four things that happen that have to happen with that addition for the totality of that building to work. Can't start that addition until we build the retaining wall and the fire access road around that. That was planned to happen first. We could then start the addition, which means
083we have to move the playground right away and then you lose your parking lot up top and then we have to build your parking lot. So all those things have to sort of happen in a carefully stepped process that we could make that happen faster, but it would also I think be at a slower pace at the high school. Do you know what I mean? Maybe slowing the pace down at the high school to do that. So it can divert manpower to do that. So you'd have to take that into account, too. If Woodstock stays open longer than anticipated, which improvements, upgrades from BCS reports or otherwise would the architects recommend to ensure up to, you know, five, we'll say years of safety there for our students. So based on the BCS for Woodstock, we
084didn't look at that in fully, but the larger things that were left on that were the restrooms being um very old and probably original to the building. Um some roofing areas were indicated to possibly need restoration. Um, and then I think the other thing I think those were the two things really at Woodstock that stood out on the BCS at a quick look, but we could do a further look into that and see what else potentially would need to be done there to keep that building running. Okay. So, one of the scenarios that we're thinking could happen in the future is is a drastic cut in funding from the state and um needing to on short notice um bring our elementary students to the central campus. So what I was curious about is safety basically.
085Um what are the absolutely critical elements of the proposition we just did to that to safely be able to bring 420 elementary school kids every day there. Um and I'd love to have those kind of labeled like I in my mind the new drop off lane for Bennett is sort of in because of the increased traffic we would need to re we just absolutely need to redo the bus configuration in my mind. But I want to make sure that's true. Um, and uh, at least some new classrooms and the and some degree of gym. Um, this is part I'll get to that in my next question. Um, but others are gray area, you know, like um, bus garage, you know, and some are clearly not necessarily like the field lights and the food truck hookup.
086I'm just wondering if you could identify things in the prop we just did that are absolutely critical to be able to centralize our elementary if we need to on short notice. We could do that. I don't have that list right now off the top of my head, but we could definitely put that together. And I think you mentioned the bus garage. Part of that was to create a site for flow of traffic in that lot with the new security vestibial edition that's going to be constructed this summer. So it might still be viewed maybe as not as needed, but the intent for that work was to really make the flow at that side of the building safer and better as well for student drop off on that side of the building. So with the extra
087students coming into Bennett, we wanted to kind of get middle school, high school drop off do um predominantly on the one side of the building so they were kind of separate so the flow would be better and you wouldn't be backed up onto 28 as much. Great. That that's what I'm that's the kind of thing I'm asking about. My thoughts are, you know, we're just um for reference, not not because I was suggesting anything. All right. And my screen just went better, but I think I remember my last question. So, and just as a board, thank you for bring So, you I heard you we we want to prioritize safety, right? And yeah, naturally, but I would imagine that as a board it'd be really helpful as we're looking to like figure out what a
088plan B could be like that we decided what our priorities were. Is it, you know, where does um the auditorium come in the list? Where does safety come in? Like if we can help list our priorities and we can tell you those and then you're not just like going, well, we could like uh not paint the walls or something like that. We could be a little bit more strategic about it. So, I think that's um as a board, I think that we should really try to talk about like what are musts um for these improvements. So, thank you, Rick. And this is sort of related um just because um I know I was fond of this element, but I'm just wondering costwise um the um we need new gym spa if we were to have
089all our elementary students at Bennett, we'd need new gym space and we had planned this sort of double basically what I believed was a double elementary gym with a divider that could be become sort of a full-size gym. Um my was the would half of that gym be enough to service combined with what we have already at Bennett would that be enough to service 420 430 students if not and would would having having that gym to just an elementary size gym and not having the community aspect not having the the you know available to the high school kids element um you know would that save a Not a little. Um I'm just curious about the e economies potential economies there. Depending on how far you go would dictate the savings. So if we were to
090half it, does that mean we get rid of all the bleachers, too? Because you really would have no need for spectators. That would save you the most. Flooring would be a big chunk of that. But the actual infrastructure of the building itself, you're still going to need all four walls. You're still going to need the floor. It's just really the savings of those specific things. It's not like the classroom piece where we're taking four classrooms. Oh, that's a pretty substantial change to look at it square footwise. You're really looking at pieces of that. So, I don't think it would be as significant as it sounds like it would be. Sounds like certainly less than half. Way less than half. Okay. Thank you. This is an additional question. apologies, but it just helped remind me, Rick.
091Um, recently we hosted a uh music uh concert for third, fourth, and fifth grades here in this room, and it was standing room only. We didn't have enough space. Um, and I'm just curious because this obviously is much bigger than what we would even have envisioned at the elementary school. um in that. So what you're suggesting is more about like what is um uh you from a safety perspective square footage per number of children not necessarily what is ideal for a K through five performance or an event or a what you know fill in the blank because it feels to me like if we did less than half of that size we would be in real trouble to bring the community together for a K through event. Would you do the auditorium type things in
092the new gym or in the old cafeteria? Because the old cafeteria is where the stage would have been. That's why I ask. Yeah, I think in our in the plan the the uh old c the old gym um because the stage is there would still be you know uh used as an auditorium space. Okay. Can I ask question? Right. Can you ask your question again now? Sorry. Sorry. It's okay. Um and I may have confused it because you were asking about the gym. But the point was about if we had we want to be prepared, right, for 450 kids, call it right in in that elementary space in the elementary building. Could we reduce the size of those shared spaces, the auditorium and the gym? um safely and effectively or would it just be like
093less ideal for those community types events that we in we hope to have there? The cafeteria cafetum the future cafeterium size wouldn't change in this process because we'd be demolishing an existing piece of the building. So I don't know if that would fit 400 and whatever kids we thought it was. I I don't know if that was ever part of that thought process. It was just what the space was. We can look into how many seats could comfortably fit in that space set up with the stage. It it probably wouldn't be the 480 if I'm just look remembering the square footage and the way that lays out. Um, but if your intention is to use that gym edition for not community, but for school events that would have the whole 480 students, then that could
094be a reason you'd want to keep it large. But when it comes to what's required by code and SED, it's based off the number of people in the building and a square foot factor. So, could the gym be reduced in half? Probably. and it would still meet the needs based on building code, but for the way you want to use it for those specialty occasions of events, it might not work for you anymore. So first Caroline then Rick. Um I was just again point going to point out to the board um when we are talking about making changes, shaving um uh that things like our auditoriums or our play spaces according the conversations that we had earlier today us that human connection that um focus I think this is a time when we we'll talk
095about safety of course but then I think about these these values that we we have and the vision of the future and as we have to shave like maybe we don't shave there maybe we shave someplace else that would be less predictable maybe you know what I mean um because those are such huge values and we are offering these children gather in our communities gathering spaces which are so important in this radically digital world. Um, so those are the conversations I would love to have so we can give you guidance so we can say like you know the auditoriums are real important to Caroline. No, it would be like a whole thing but you know like or we have to have safety first and then you have some sort of ideas about where our priorities
096are. I think that could be really helpful for being um smart about the design. Are there any more questions? Kind of bubbled up while we were talking. I just wanted to say out loud the next board meeting is July 1st. I'll take it. We'll be here. Are we good? Thank you both so much. Really very very helpful. I'd like to make a motion to uh just switch the agenda up a little bit so that we can have Olivia give her report before we go into executive session and so she's not sitting here for all that time. Um may I have a second? Trustee Jerome, I was just gonna call you Trusty Caroline. Um, all in favor? Great. That's unanimous. Thank you. Good evening. Uh, yesterday was the high school's last day of classes. Um, for
097the next following weeks, high school students will continue to take regions and final exams, while the middle school's last day of classes will be June 20th. and the eighth grade moving up ceremony will be June 23rd. This evening, the final issue of the Talon newspaper of this year has been brought out. Um, additionally, spring sports have officially concluded. Congratulations to the four athletes, Alexandra Young, Sarah Matawi, Sidi Cones, and Alexa Hull, who all competed at the state level. The final senior events have concluded, as well as the senior picnic and the senior scholarship award ceremony. Graduation will be June 26 and the Bell Bair Bash will be held that evening. Thank you. Thank you, Olivia. Thank you so much. Thank you, Olivia. Flipping pages. May I have a motion to enter into executive session to
098discuss uh Antia negotiations, the employment of a particular person, and to meet with legal counsel? Trusty Romano, may I have a second? Trusty uh Goodrich, any questions or comments? All in favor? That's unanimous. We should be back in about 45 minutes. We are back. May I have a motion to exit executive session and return to public session? Trust Amando. Second, Trusty Lynch. Any questions or comments? All in favor? That's unanimous. Thank you. Um, item 6.01 is acceptance of minutes. The board of education hereby accepts the minutes of the June 3rd, 2025 meeting. May I have a first? Trusty Romano. Second, Trusty Mitchell Morurell. Any questions or comments? All in favor? That's unanimous. Thank you. On to our superintendent uh district report. I'm going to apologize. ahead of time. This is lengthy. Um, so we had
099a conversation with Dr. Bachmann regarding the status of our long-term plan, the results of our capital project vote, and the thought that we may need to bring additional information into our conversation. We discussed uh the that the report that he had created previously is not entirely relevant at this time. um and the possibility that he could work on a new report that would include relevant scenarios and provide an instructional focus. So um he was um amunable to that conversation and he will be working on a proposal that he will have to us u by our next meeting for the board to consider. Um we have posted the exit poll um analysis on the optimizing on tour page. So, it is right at the top of the page, very easily found and accessible for anyone who
100would like to review that. Last week was our annual scholarship awards night. The generosity of this community is truly immense and we are so grateful. So many of our seniors are leaving here with substantial support and with recognition for all of their achievements. The number of awards and the diversity of the awards are both um incredibly impressive. Many of the awards celebrate academic achievement, but students are also recognized for being leaders in sports, in the arts, for being kind, for being supportive of their peers, for having an interest in the outdoors and nature, for a love of animals, and for so much more. Uh it's truly amazing um to sit in that awards night and see all of the recognition um that our students get and all the generosity of our community. Um, we had
101our soft launch for our fall reading group in which we will read The Anxious Generation. We currently have seven individuals signed up, but we know that this is a busy time of year, so people are not really thinking about what they're going to be doing in September. We will be posting this on social media shortly, and we will remind everyone again at the end of the summer when uh thoughts will turn to the return of school in September. In the meantime, anyone who would like to participate can sign up on the form that is posted or can just reach out to my office directly and we can get you a copy of the book. Um, last week we met with Mr. Amenta. He is a district resident who has recently been appointed as one of
102the deputy county executives. He has been in conversation with members of the town of Shandaken board regarding the possibility of the town creating federally subsidized affordable housing on the Phoenicia campus. The members of the town board that he had communicated with indicated a strong interest in this path but a lack of capacity to manage the process. So he um said that he is willing to assist the town on behalf of the county executive. So he did let us know that if the district were interested in this as a potential solution for the Phoenicia campus, he would work with the town. The process would involve him contacting developers, arranging for access to the building so that he could show the property and the developers could begin to ideulate possibilities for um how they would want to
103develop the property. He would then assist in creating an RFP process that would result in the town actually selecting a developer to work with. Um, at that point, we would then ask the voters to approve selling the property to the town for a dollar. He anticipates that if everything goes smoothly, that could be on our ballot in May of 2026 if everything worked out on his end, and the board was supportive of that. Um, we have a lot of construction happening here in the middle high school this summer. Once again, uh, we're going to be renovating classrooms. So, we have 13 classrooms and two additional spaces that will be renovated. Um, the middle school gym is going to be renovated. The new security vestibule will be created. Uh, the new outdoor student lunch pavilion, which
104will replace uh the tents that are out there now, is going to happen this summer. Um, the west and site improvements, including a new drop off lane for the entrance by the tennis courts, is going to be done. the new tennis court parking lot paving and lighting will be done. We will also be replacing the library ADA lift. Um creating more drainage around the tennis courts and upgrading the electrical panels in the math and science wing. So because of all of that, the majority of this building is going to be inaccessible until mid August except for the guidance hall and the main hall will both remain open um but will only be accessible from the front of the building where the buses actually um line up. So visitors will need to park in that bus
105lane and enter through that front entrance. Um, also we have posted a notice on the tennis courts because we do have a lot of community members who typically use our tennis courts when we are not using them. Unfortunately, they will not be accessible either because of all the construction happening at that parking lot and around them. Uh, we anticipate that they will reopen in mid August. Um, a reminder that we will be closed on Thursday in observance of Junth and Friday is the last day of classes for our middle school students. Next week on Thursday and Friday, elementary students will have half days and graduation is on Thursday. So, we hope to see all the faculty, staff, family, and community members join us to witness this milestone for our senior class. Um, and then I'm
106going to talk a little bit about the New York State budget. Um so um the New York state budget uh obviously passed and there are certain provisions that are impactful for Antura. So in terms of foundation aid, we did receive a little over $156,000 increase um over what we had received last year. So this was the minimum 2% increase provided to all districts uh in the hold harmless situation. We also received an increase in three expense driven aid categories, but a decrease in three others, but we did have a net increase in our entire state aid package of $300,000. So, that was very positive for us. Uh we continue to be able to access uh free breakfast and lunch for all students because the governor included universal um free school meals. The state budget increased
107um the Bosey's Adidable salary cap. So this will increase the amount of aid that we are able to receive based on staff salaries of Bosey's employees who work within Kosers that we subscribe to. So uh employees of Boseies who are providing services that we access we can get aid um based on their salaries. So the cap is increasing by $10,000 each year for three years. So for us, our Bosey's aid ratio is approximately 30%. The uh amount of an individual employees salary that is aidable is $30,000. So um we would get aid of $10,000 in that situation and that will see a modest increase um for the next three years. Um there has been an extension of the waiver for the retiree earnings cap for the next two school years which allow retirees to work
108in the public sector and earn more than $35,000 in a calendar year. We currently have more than one retiree working in the district and we're very grateful that this has been extended as it allows for flexibility. Although um I do keep reminding myself if the cap were not um waved or extended, there is actually a process to apply to the state for a waiver on a case-byase basis, which we have done numerous times in the past. Um the state budget included some changes for the zero emissions bus mandates. districts are now able to apply for waiverss um for compliance with this mandate. And it also allows the commissioner to consider other factors outside the control of the district as well as um including things like the availability of vehicles, uh lack of in infrastructure and
109funding. There's also now a requirement that bus dealers provide independent third-party battery range estimate that includes an estimate on different terrains, different weather conditions. uh as well as the impact of what the storage situation is for the vehicles. So this will be especially beneficial for us as our initial uh assessment identified a number of bus runs that would not be viable for a zero emissions vehicle and even more runs that would not be viable uh for situations where we may in the winter have to um bring students in and then turn around and dismiss early. There wouldn't be enough time uh for a complete charge. So there are going to be some um some different circumstances considered. Now the smart device ban that's in the um state budget is not particularly impactful for us since
110we already have uh device free during the school day situation, but uh we'll see how that rolls out. Um, I did find it interesting. The enacted budget includes a million dollars for the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services to create and distribute an educator's toolkit for providing students of various ages with the skills necessary for critically consuming media. Um, I didn't see any additional information or details on that, but I'm very interested to see uh what they develop and disseminate for us. Um, and lastly, there was $24 million included in the state budget for bullet aid. So, uh, Assembly Member Shressa reached out to us and invited us to apply for her bullet aid. Um, and we were able to do that and she has um, put our application forward to the assembly to
111be considered this year. So, we were told we could apply for up to $25,000. We submitted an application that included professional development and student workbooks supporting um our math curriculum. Uh unfortunately the turnaround time that they gave us was literally about a day. So we didn't have much time to get more creative than that. But we felt like we were given the opportunity um to apply for grant funding. So we did. Great. Thank you. Any questions for the superintendent? Okay, great. Thank you. Uh, board district news, Trusty Jerome, I know I always sound like a cheerleader, but you know how you all understand how missionritical this the music and arts for me and this human connection piece is. So when our middle school um jazz band won gold medals with distinction at NISMA and which
112was is extraordinary. I mean this is this is a real achievement and um seeing those children like throw their arms around each other and hoist their metal high and the teachers embracing one another. and it was just absolutely incredible. And then they followed that up with a performance at Maverick, which is this incredibly special place. Um, that again just speaks to the creative talent in this place that we live in. And they were able to perform there and they just sound so incredible. And I'm so excited to hear what the Lun Next. And so I'm glowing, but I also think this is a great achievement for the educational offering that we provide here at Ontario. This is not frosting. This is like mission critical stuff. So go on, really proud of us. And is it
113not also correct, Trusty Jerome, that the the band also won gold with distinction? Yeah. So yeah. Yeah, there were two. Um, and and from and it really is somebody said, you know, it's kind of like in musical terms, this is like the football team winning the state championships or something. This is like and for to get two of those from a small rural district like ours, it really is a testament to the to our teachers and our kids and and our families who support them. Um, and so that's really wonderful. Um I I also wanted to just say that I went I had the pleasure of attending last Thursday uh the c and year of event year- end celebration for the mentorship program in the high school uh which was really wonderful and um I
114took some notes just because um so there were a bunch of student mentors who just talked about their mentors and their mentorship experience and uh it's a really wonderful program that I think um people should know about uh because they sometimes they don't get kids sign up late or you know uh to almost to a person all the kids said I wish I'd signed up earlier. So I'm trying you know to to promote awareness. So this year's cohort did mentorships in screenwriting auto repair. Three kids did elementary education and I think all three of them said it really solidified their desire to pursue elementary education as a career after high school and college which is wonderful. uh photography, comic book writing, painting. Two were in political science and law and did internships with the district
115attorney in Kingston. One did philosophy with a college professor and then another one did Mandarin. Um and so what I learned is that these mentorships are really student driven. It's really driven by student interest. And the the Mr. Epstein who directs the program, he takes it upon himself if a kid expresses a desire or an interest in a particular field and wants to do a mentorship in that area. He then goes out and tries to find somebody in our community. And there are plenty of people in our community who will support our kids this way. So, if you're listening and you know you're a parent, um you know, and you think your kid might benefit, um maybe talk it up to them a little bit and uh get them to start thinking about um an
116area that they would want to be mentored by a professional or a community member because there's lots of depth of experience and knowledge in our community to be mind you, but uh it it does take some initiative on the part of the of the student and the family to get them signed up. Uh, and this is primarily for high school students obviously. So, but it was a really great night. I just want to add that I I also attended that and it was really I was re very very impressed and I just want to send kudos to uh David Nelson Epstein because this was his first year uh taking on the role of the of the mentorship leadership um and following in the footsteps of someone who had been doing it for over 20 years.
117So I I think he did a remarkable job and uh you could see the camaraderie between him and the students, the you know the mentees that was really great. Um I also had the opportunity of attending the um academic achievement awards breakfast um not last week but I think the week before with uh superintendent and um principal Edelman uh where the um uh valictorian saludiatorans and principals award winners from all the uh county school districts are there being honored. What a remarkable group of people. I mean, these are kids that are are just really really brilliant and and kind and you know, they're they're just like allaround great citizens uh going forward. Um any other trustees? Trusty Mitchell Morell. um maybe a minor in event in comparison, but I went to the Woodstock Elementary end
118of year picnic and it was so fun and we had great weather which it's actually I think been rained out the last two years so that was exciting and like there was like not a DJ but like a really big speaker and like everybody knows like the same dances like they were doing the Macarena which obviously I know didn't know that was still around but like just it was so cute. They were all doing these dances and having so much fun and it was great. Trusty Lynch and then Trusty Roando. Yeah, it's June so there's a lot to celebrate. I just want to add two things. One, um I just want to also recognize the board and and the administration for making the change to invest in the middle school band uh when we move
119the sixth grade up. I know that was a big decision. Um, and having Harvey Ber there and um, Miss Leonard too, who's also um, been a huge part of this group's success has made a huge um, impression on these young kids, recognizing that they too are valued um, and recognizing that um, that their work matters. And there's a there's just a we we're very lucky to have both uh, Mr. Boyer and Miss Leonard um, of course, but particularly Mr. Boyer's leadership and um I just want to thank the board for making that investment in that position. Um the second thing I just want to add is um that um Bennett also benefited from incredible weather which is so rare this spring um and had a beautiful um carnival last Friday. Um thanks to Miss Allison
120for also participating and um and um the was so lovely was that high school kids, many of them came and also volunteered their time to do face painting and support the the group. Mr. Bono, the principal, got in the dunk tank. Um there was um families from both Woodstock and Bennett there participating. The place was packed. I actually had the uh unlucky job of being of asking people to go home. Uh, so it was just amazing. It went on, it could have gone on all night um, honestly. So, um, I just, um, yeah, really want to hold that up as a, um, a celebratory moment, um, for all of us on on the, um, in Boyville campus and, and to recognize um, the good work of the Bennett PTA in particular. Um, and the last
121thing I'll say is that this is my last meeting and so I just want to take the opportunity to thank all of you. Um, I've learned so much uh in the last three years and I hope that you'll continue to count on me uh when it's needed. Um, and I look forward to staying um an active member from the other side of this table. Thank you for all you do. I just wanted to speak to the senior awards night as well and the generosity of our community for our students and their the diversity of the awards to really meet so many different students where they're at and in their abilities and their strengths and their kindness. And they each award is just so unique and so special. And the kids the families were obviously there
122encouraging and clapping, but to see their fellow classmates cheering and hooting and hollering and being so supportive, it just is a testament to those kids and to this community as well. So thank thank you to everyone. And it's also my final meeting and I wrote something because I have to do that. Um, I'm filled with a deep sense of gratitude and hope. I want to thank our community for entrusting me with this role. Being elected to this position was never something I took for granted. It was and always will be a profound reminder of the trust you placed in me to shape the future of our schools and by extension the lives of our students. I want to keep planting the seed that every child, no matter their abilities, deserves the chance to learn, grow,
123and shine right in the heart of their community. That means al being alongside their friends, their neighbors, their brothers and sisters in a place where they feel seen, supported, and included. This is what we call the least restrictive environment, and it's where every child has the best chance to thrive. Inclusion is not an ideal. It is a right. And when we build schools and create programs that embrace every child, we build communities that are stronger, kinder, and more just. To the administration, your leadership, tireless work, and quiet strength have taught me so much. I've seen you firsthand. I've seen firsthand how deeply you care about our children, our educators, and our community. You've invited us into hard conversations, made difficult decisions with grace, and keep the students best interests at the center of it all.
124Thank you for being the steady hands that guide this district. To my fellow trustees, what a privilege it has been to serve alongside of you. I'm so grateful for the perspectives you bring, the debates we've shared, and the lessons I've learned from each of you. This work is not always easy, but it has always been worth it. I leave this position a better listener, a more thoughtful leader, and a more hopeful citizen because of you. To our students and staff, thank you for being our inspiration. You're the reason why we do what we do. Our students show us what's possible when we nurture minds and spirits, and our staff shows us what's possible when passion meets purpose. Lastly, I want to leave you all with this reminder. There is no greater calling than being of
125service to others. Whether you're an educator, a volunteer, a student, or a board member, when you serve with heart, we shape the world. When we give of ourselves, we grow. And when we lead with love and integrity, we leave a legacy that outlasts any one title or term. Thank you for allowing me to be a part of this work. I will be forever grateful. I can't say too much right now because I have to keep working. But I have a lot to say, not just right now. Any other trustees wish to speak? Okay. All right. Item 10.01. The board will acknowledge the public be heard comments from the last meeting. Uh the following folks spoke. Tan Tanzy Micho, Jess Wniski. See, I already have tears in my eyes, so I can't I can hardly read.
126Uh Jess Wasnki, Daniel Sine, Stephanie Bryant, Jenny Jared, and Ben Fleer. So, we're moving on to public and student comment. The board appreciates hearing from the public, including students, on any agenda item, any agenda or non-aggenda item. Please understand it by our adopted parliamentary procedure, the board can't engage in discussion or any or answer any questions during public be heard. Please know that we hear you and we take all of your comments into consideration. The board does re reserve the right to correct any inaccuracies or misinformation during public be heard. Please limit your comments to three minutes. Be civil and do not name any particular individuals or promote any commercial ventures or products. People wishing to express individual student or personnel concerns can bring them to the superintendent's attention in private. Deafany de Jesus. Good
127evening trustees and superintendent assistant superintendants. Um, there's supposed to be three of us here tonight and um, it's me and I'm reading for all three of us, so bear with me. Um, and I hope in this case it's okay to mention names. I'll get to that. You can stop me if it's not. Um, I'm reading on behalf of Jessica Wisneski who is tied up with booster club tonight. would love to be here. Um, we've been planning this for a while. Um, I wanted to join in expressing my great deepest gratitude and well wishes to Assistant Superintendent Amanda Allison. I echo what others will say. We are blessed to have a legacy and continuation of thoughtful, dedicated, and innovative staff at every level supporting our students with individual learning plans. But from the moment I met
128Amanda, I knew that she was coming with bold new ideas and a fresh perspective. She saw what was good and had a vision to build on. She came at just the right time as we were dealing with and recovering from CO. Her expansion of special reading teachers has had a profound impact on the lives of my own children and that of many others. What I so appreciate about her is that she doesn't only go above and beyond in her day job, but she is incredibly hands-on and dedicated to the entire school community. Her leadership in the meet, greet, and eat and support for the Antiora Booster Club has been immeasurable. She is always ready to pitch in, ice cream scoop in hand, at our middle school events. Every time I see her, she's engaged in
129a deep conversation with a parent, listening and learning. The Antiora community is so much better off because of your time with us. It's clear your work and leadership will have a lasting impact. Thank you for leaving us an incredible team. I wish you the very best on your next adventure. Don't be a stranger. We'll be sure to let you know when next year's meet, greet, and eat is. Next, I'm reading for Kylen Lighter, who cannot be here tonight because she's a teacher and she's prepping for class tomorrow. Miss Allison is a leader whose impact extends far beyond the walls of an office or the language of a policy. She is someone who leads with both compassion and integrity. Miss Allison is not only a strong administrator, but a true advocate for students with special needs.
130In a system that often struggles to meet the unique needs of every learner, she consistently goes the extra mile to ensure no student is overlooked, underserved, or unheard. What sets her apart isn't just her understanding of educational law. It's her empathy. She listens and when a need arises, whether it's for specialized materials, funding for an independent educational evaluation, or to ensure that a student's IEP is being implemented with fidelity, she responds without hesitation. Miss Allison is committed to fostering an environment where students with disabilities are treated with equity, dignity, and respect, and takes thoughtful action to prevent any form of of unfair or unkind treatment. She understands that equity sometimes means doing more, giving more, and being willing to step in personally when the system falls short. She has consistently been willing to stand beside
131our family during difficult conversations, advocate for both of my children, and ensure that their IEPs are being followed. Her dedication goes well beyond administrative responsibilities. Miss Allison has personally taken the time to read both of my children's IEPs and Ees and has gone even further by educating herself about disgraphia to help the Auntie staff better understand my older son's individual learning strengths and challenges. She also took the time to engage in thoughtful, compassionate conversations with me, truly listening to my concerns about my younger son potentially being dyslexic. Despite differing opinions from other professionals, she supported my request for an independent educational evaluation, which ultimately confirmed his diagnosis of dyslexia. She consistently seeks out new programs and professional development opportunities to better equip teachers and enrich the learning experience for students with diverse and atypical disability
132profiles. Miss Allison is a reminder of the profound difference one dedicated leader can make in the lives of students and families. She is a reminder of what true educational leadership looks like. rooted in empathy, driven by justice, and committed to making sure every student, regardless of ability, gets the support they need to thrive. Perhaps most telling is her personal engagement. Despite a demanding schedule, Miss Allison made time to meet my older son, not out of obligation, but out of a genuine desire to make him feel seen and supported. She responds to emails and phone calls, including the hard conversations that others might avoid, demonstrating a level of care and accountability that is rare and deeply appreciated. Thank you, Miss Allison, for being the kind of leader who truly supports and believes in every student. I
133am deeply grateful for your dedication, your compassion, and your tireless commitment to my children. You will truly be missed. Okay, now it's my turn. Okay. Having served on this school board previously, I know firsthand most of the time people come to do public be heard. it is to air a grievance or discuss shortcomings they feel you should know about which is great. However, I am here to heir my sadness over the impending departure of Amanda Allison and recognize her for being quite honestly one of the best and brightest lights I've had the honor of working with to make sure my child has every resource available to her to help her succeed. Being a parent is difficult enough without the added hurdles and obstacle course of having a child who is differently aabled and in turn
134differently viewed and differently treated by other students and sometimes even staff. Neurode diverency can be a very isolating and difficult path to navigate for both parent and child. While I have always had a great experience with everyone involved over the last eight years with pupil personnel and special education, I must say a beacon like Amanda has made the last several years an absolute relief and a privilege to get to know her, to work with her and her staff in making this path more accessible, inclusive, and less rocky. and to see what education for differently aabled children should look like. Working with Amanda is knowing with my full heart that my child will be provided for and ensured of her right to education and wellness. I have always been so grateful to all of the teachers,
135therapists, aids, and support staff who have worked with Stella over the years. Now I'm pulling a Cindy and I can't see. Um, being a parent to a special needs child may make you into a person with nerves of steel, mouth of mouth full of grit and sleeves rolled up, ready to do battle at the b the drop of a hat to make sure that your kid gets their piece of the social, emotional, educational pie. However, I normally end meetings with tears in my eyes over how lucky we are to have these professionals here in Antiora. With Amanda in place, though, it really felt like the sky is the limit for kids with IEPs and 504s. With Amanda in place, you could rest easy knowing she was a phone call or email away, and your concerns
136are genuinely her concerns as well. It is not just an administrator telling you how things are going to be or what they are willing to do. It's a partnership. It's a collaboration and it's an investment in the student. For some people, this is a job. It is clear that for Amanda, this is a calling. Listening to Amanda, you see quite quickly that her passion is compassion, equity, the whole child, and opening doors for them that in other districts, counties, states, and countries would be shut in their face. I'm sure you all know this, but I want to let Amanda know that our family is eternally grateful for your unwavering devotion and service to not just Stella, but all the children who have benefited from your belief in them and dedication to giving them the keys
137to open all those closed doors. Anora's loss is Red Hook's gain and you will be very missed. We wish you all the best in your future endeavors and we are happy that other children will benefit from having you as a beacon on their path as well. Thank you. [Applause] Thank you, Daffhany. Stephanie Bryant. I'm not ready, you guys. I uh I'm Stephanie Bryant from Woodstock, New York. Uh I uh this is a lot. Um I I I came here to to to drag the Woodstock community again because I'm I'm very upset uh that Woodstock voted down the bond that was so gorgeously presented by this board. and not getting Scooby-Dooed knowing this was Allison Lynch's and Romano's last day. I just want to say thank you to the entire board. Thank you. Thank you, Sarah,
138for running and rallying our community when we were so absolutely divided. And we needed somebody to step up and fight for our rural schools. And you did that. And you went in and you got on the board and you did what you diplomatically do with a plam and grace and you always bring the conversation forward. Trusty Roando, the looks that you gave me for two years as I stood up here, it was, you know, I mean, I can I can take it from I can take it from some of these guys, but I and it wasn't until you were so It wasn't until I came around long enough to understand you and your family and and what you're doing and me having no idea what you go through as a mother and as an advocate
139and as a trustee. I I would have met me in the back parking lot if I were you. And I'm just so grateful that I had all those looks because it made me question what I was saying and really really think about my all these really smart people know something I don't know. Miss Allison, listen lady. Um, I hope Wood, this is all I'm gonna say. This is all I'm gonna say. Are you ready for this? Woodstock is not having a bathroom baby. Thank you. That's an inside joke. That's just for us. Okay, she got it. Okay, now on that note, I'm gonna say um I uh uh thank you for Harvey Ber. Thank you uh for that jazz program. Thank you for the unprecedented uh band and jazz gold with distinction awards and a
140part big reason of why I think that happened is not just Harvey is magic he is uh but it's the coming together of these children at a young level and that's why centralization is good for the children of Woodstock and last bit about special education I want to understand how we can have more dialogue dogs publicly, not just us yelling at you. Why centralization will benefit all of the kids in our community. I think that would help the community of Woodstock, liberal, wonderful people that we are, if we understood what equity really means. I think that would help people support this bond. Thank you for letting me go over. Thank you, Stephanie. Would anyone else like to speak? Come on down. Hi, my name is Chloe Leader. Uh, thank you to all of you, especially
141to Sarah and Megan for your time on the board and Amanda. I haven't interacted with you. Um, but thank you for all that you've done. It was wonderful to hear those words. Um, I also want to give a special thank you to Emily. Um last week the speech that you gave felt very meaningful um to the voice of half the district that would like the board to rethink the plan. Uh so many members of the community had given up and felt like their voice didn't matter after many public be herds surveys that overwhelmingly asked you to keep the schools open. Um and also after that last minute vote in 2023 where we felt like our trust was betrayed. Um, but this vote, however, reinvigorated everyone's will to fight for all of our children, for the
142district, um, and for Woodstock, for our community. Um, I want what's best for all the children. And it doesn't feel like equity has to be in jeopardy when you have multiple campuses. We had multiple campuses from we still have multiple campuses for many decades. But if the education and the access to resources given between those schools is inequitable, then let's find a way to make it better and more equitable. And closing a school may be the easiest or simplest answer, but it's not the only one. I feel strongly that our youngest children should be in smaller schools in their community. Our district is huge and it feels like it makes a lot of sense to have Woodstock in the east for the half the children that are in the east and Bennett in the west
143for those children that are in the western part of the district. And the wonderful thing is that they all come together when they're older in middle school and high school and they grow, they continue to grow and learn on the same campus. Closing Woodstock feels like the wrong approach, not just for the youngest children, um, but also for our district. Woodstock would become even more of a second hometown that will continue to price out his current and potential residents and not attract families. And we would lose current and prospective children from the district. And this is not just hypothetical, it's anecdotal from friends that have already made decisions to not send their children to Woodstock because they are worried about it closing. Um, so I asked the board to consider another approach. Um, and if
144you look at why people want to consolidate, there have to be other ways to accomplish meeting those needs without closing a village school. Um, and as we just heard from the architects, there are lots of options to make a lower a bond that's lower. Let's seriously pursue those while ensuring the children have access to equitable education and resources. Um, and I want to share something that Emily said at the last meeting that rang strongly for me. Um, and it she said, "It feels at times that we as a board have put centralization above all else, white knuckling it at the expense of very important things. I reminded of the phrase, "Do we want to be right or do you want to be happy?" In the last election, the voters, a lot of the voters shared
145how they feel, so I ask you guys to seriously please consider another plan. Thanks. Thank you, Chloe. Would anybody else like to speak? All right. Thank you all. Moving on to the consent agenda. The board hereby approves items number 12.02 through 12.10. May I have a first? Trusty Roando second. Trusty Goodrich. Any questions or comments? I have reviewed schedule U and it appears to be in order. Excellent. Any other questions or comments? All in favor? That's unanimous. Thank you. On to cont contracts and independent contract retainers. Approval of all contracts and independent contract retainer retainers. The board of education hereby approves items number 13.02 through 13.10. May I have a first? Trusty Romano. Second. Trusty Jerome. Any questions or comments? All in favor? That's unanimous. Thank you. Oops. On to policies 14.01 first reading of
146policy 7370 students and personal electronic devices and 14.02 first reading of policy 3520 extreme heat. We will revisit those policies at our next meeting. Item 15.01. Does anyone have any old business to discuss? Trusty Kudson. Yeah. I'm wondering just because some of the items I don't know where we left our new procedures uh for onboarding new trustees discussion. uh because I I sent out an email to I'm sorry I sent it late today, but um I sort of broke down I I compiled the list of suggestions that we went through at the last meeting. I put in a couple others that came in on on the Google form and then um organized them by things that should happen before the reorg meeting and after. And there's about it's mostly after the reorg meeting, but there's
147like five or six that would be good to do. So this is our last meeting before the reorg meeting. So that's why I'm bringing it up now. Um, and I'm sorry I should have pulled it up earlier, but um, it's things like, you know, go over the reorg meeting, you know, go over what oath you're going to take, uh, committee primers if we're going to do committees that night, things like that. Just things that would be good for the new trustees to know at the reorg meeting. Oh, so I know that we're on a like really short timeline before the reorg meeting and um and I'm just wondering if maybe you and I could like fine-tune that list, at least the part of it that you think should happen before the reorg meeting and maybe
148um find a time to meet with our uh trustees elect and you know just have a uh chat with them sometime within the next two weeks. Yes. Is that possible? Sure. I just wanted to if any of the trustees got a chance to look at that email or had any any comments from the last meeting, but if we're if if we're all in agreement, then I think we can just go forward. How does everybody else feel about that? Is it okay? All right. So, we'll we'll just do a tenative list for things that should happen prior to the reorg meeting and then we'll take more time at another at at a later date to really kind of formalize it. Okay. All right. Good. Any other old business? All right. Any new business? Trusty Jerome. Um
149I had mentioned uh briefly this a meeting that I had with a Marie Mendez in Green County um who's doing programs in the city around fiscal responsibility. You mentioned that you do have some pro programming and that the portrait of the graduate is going to be um promoting this aspect of a young learner's life. Um as we know people will be going directly into the workforce. they may not be going they may be running their own businesses working for small business. So the idea of knowing the basic tenants of um how to financial literacy is the word I'm looking for that's the phrase. So anyways, um if I can introduce you or talk to you more about it, I'm not sure. But I really think as a board, this is another place where we can
150equip our student population for the future. Um and even potentially the community as you're doing with the book club. You know, it is an opportunity for um this a very smart woman who is doing this on a volunteer basis to perhaps work the district. So, I'll look to you to help me make an introduction perhaps. Great. Thank you. Any other new business? Any requests for information? Trusty Goodrich. So, I have uh submitted a request uh given the exit polling information last vote. Um, a lot of people seem to be interested in time on bus for the centralized campus. So, I thought we had a perfect opportunity now for the K through four uh students that we have right now in Woodstock and Bennett. And to compare the bus times, the time on bus for those
151students that we currently have with let's say we we had a centralized campus today. What would be um the time on bus today versus the time on bus for a centralized campus. and try to put it in in in a range like uh for um under 30 minutes uh 30 to 35, 35 to 40, 40 to 45 and over 45 just to give us a general idea what the differences would be on for time on bus. And this would not be specific to any um any you know whether it would be on the east end of the district, the north end or the west end. It would just be generalized numbers for the entire campus for the entire district. Thank you. Any other requests for information? All right, our next meeting is July 1st. We'll
152be here in the middle school high school auditorium. May I have a motion to adjurnn? Trusty Lynch. Second. Trusty Romano. All in favor? Good night.