001I'm glad you enjoyed it. >> I did. >> I don't know. >> You should come out to the children. >> What is it? >> It's um Into the Woods. >> Now that I might do >> it'll be very fun. >> Your acting debut. >> It's my second debut. Past came out today. I don't I don't know if I can say anything yet. >> So, you'll be in for a surprise. I'm going to be in for a surprise. Nothing surprises me anymore. >> I'm waiting on Sandy. She's sitting right next to me. >> And Mr. Rogers down there. >> Yeah, we get that a lot of times. Mr. Rogers. >> Y. Hi everyone. It is so nice to see the boardroom full. Thank you for joining us. And I am going to call the meeting to
002order. Uh we did have an executive session meeting at 6:30 and I would like to start with the pledge of allegiance. If everyone would rise please to the flag of the United States of America and to the stands nationy andice for all. We did have to add an agenda item regarding a field trip. So that will be added on at the end of the meeting just so that you all are aware. And our next item on the agenda is the approval of minutes board. March 2026. We have a motion and a second. Is there any discussion? >> If not, you may place your vote, please. And it passes 70. Thank you, board. Next on the item agenda is the financial reports, and that belongs to our student reps. >> All right. First one we have
003is school education for $950,9.97. We have education form Kermat $2,300 or 300 $23912. Exempt operating post 2009 $179,5452. School operations 587,7452. School lunch $157,722.37. Self- insurance fund is $419,00069 and.34. Community gift and donations $1,810.77. Bricky or Building Brickies $1,427.90. SEO Educational Foundation $1,89.70. School education foundation legacy grants is $99. And then we have the early years initiative grant $2,63543. And then healthy Hobbert/BFTS is $6298. >> All right. And then I'll be reading the second half starting at community partners. So community partners $430.7. Indiana Learns $1,52.33. Safe supporting addictionfree $385.30. Title One Part A fiscal year 2526 $8,8362 preschool development grant $28,000 even title 2 part A fiscal year 2526 $3,489.15 clearing accounts $428,153.50 50 self insurance clearing $70,68342 clearing/flexible benefits AF 62,68651 prepaid food $12610 clearing/ insurance account $3,4182 and then for a grand total
004of 2,917,51544 Thank you ladies. Uh for the audience's purposes, um our student reps were started years ago by a board member that has since passed on. Uh brought it to us and uh felt that our students should have someformational um just be able to represent their student body and to be able to take back to the student body the information that we have here. And Grace and Shuene are this year's reps. If there's any underassman out there that are interested, we'll be getting some applications out soon. And board, your pleasure on this item. have a motion and a second board. Is there any discussion? If not, please place your vote. And that passes 70. Thank you. Our next item on the agenda is the comments on agenda items. Are there any comments on the agenda
005items from the audience? >> Next item is personnel. Dr. In your packet, you have a copy of the personnel report for March 19th, and you also have an addendum ending for March 19th. Action is requested. >> I recommend the board approve personnel report as presented. Second, >> we have a motion and a second. Is there any discussion? If not, please vote. And that passes 70. Thank you, board. Our next item on the agenda is the resolution in recognition of March's disabilities awareness month. Dr. Buffington. >> That would be correct. And that's why we have an amazing audience out there. Um, but first and foremost, uh, we have a resolution that is recognizing that March is disability awareness month and Before we bring up some of the audience members to share with us, I'll turn it
006over to our board secretary to um recognize with the resolution. >> And for those out in the audience, if you would like our secretary to read the whole resolution, he may or if you would like to read at it on the screens, whichever your pleasure. All right, board. >> I'd like to make a motion that the board adopt resolution number 2026-5. March is disabilities awareness month as presented. >> Second. >> We have a motion and a second. Is there any discussion? If not, electronic vote and then a roll call also, please. I >> I and that's a unanimous vote. 70. Thank you, board. >> All right. And we do recognize disability awareness month. And today we're going to be highlighting some of the uh disability programs in our school corporation. We're extremely proud of of
007the inclusion that happens in our school corporation. Um, and when I say inclusion, the best part about it is that our children are the ones that are leading that charge with amazing teachers and sponsors that that show them how to be inclusive and they model it for everyone else in the school district. So, I couldn't be prouder of our students and their teachers. First up is going to be the middle school. I'll call up the middle school. Um, I think that's you, Carol. All right. and you can call up your guest. >> Did you want the speakers coming up or do you want to have the speakers come up? >> Come on up. >> You can introduce everyone. >> Okay, so everyone that you see around us with the shirts on that say Best Buddies
008are part of our group. Uh this is our very first year at Hbert Middle School. Best Buddies is a global organization um in more than 50 countries across the world and we're very happy to have the newest group here in Northwest Indiana and I just invited some of the kids to talk about what's what Best Buddies means to them. >> Thank you for doing that. >> Okay. Best Buddies is a nonprofit organization that heavily focuses on bringing people together regardless of their differences and disabilities. Best Buddies was founded by Anthony K. Shiver in 1989 at Georgetown University in Washington DC. To this day, people join this nonprofit organization for those who want to make a difference and make friends regardless of disabes and disabilities. Hello, I am Thomas Jensen. I'm 14 years old, born with
009autism and ADHD. I'm happy to see I'm happy to see all of you today here at Hobber High School. I joined Best Buddies in October 2025 thanks to my mother, Raven Jensen. I am here to explain what Best Buddies is and my personal experiences that I've had with it. It all it all started when I went to my first Best Buddies meeting in October 2025. I was happy to see lots of people here. Mrs. Fonner was Mrs. Fonner was providing us with amazing food and I even brought for food for the Thanksgiving feast. I was having so much fun at the time. To this day, I am still enrolled in Best Buddies and happy to go on any occasion of this beloved club. As a former talent show star at Hbert Middle School, I was
010happy to join this club and meet people. Even the dean of students, Joshua Reno, and principal Nicole Neely of the Hobbert Middle School came in before and I was so happy. Even admin Courtney Gil came in at one time. I remember during one Best Buddies meeting, I even gave Mrs. Neilie some pizza as a gift from me and she was so happy, too. Thank you. Hello. Hello. My name is Gavin Holland. I'm a 14-year-old on the autism spectrum. Sometimes I struggle with making and keeping friends, but Best Buddies roll the struggles away and said, "Then let's make some." Best Buddies allowed me to make friends not but not just make them but also find the one ones who accept me for who I am. I'm happy to be part of this community who loves me
011back. Hi, I'm Avoika. This year I joined Best Buddies for the first time. In Best Buddies, we focus on inclusion and making sure everyone feels welcome. When we meet, we do many activities such as crafts and scavenger hunts and we will even participate in a friendship walk where we will walk with Best Buddies groups from all over the area. We have we have the chance to talk and meet new people that we otherwise may have not met. Best Buddies teaches that including others is not just the right thing to do. It can also be a fun way to make new friends. Best Buddies has a huge impact on our school. Students who might usually feel left out left out are included in activities and have more chances to make friends. Overall, Best Buddies help students
012with with and without disabilities spend time together, have fun, and feel included in our school community. Best Buddies is so good. My name is Nor Garcia and and and and I joined Best Buddies and and I'm I'm 14 years old. I have woring things and thoughts and strong and and and and smart and and and and keeps our thoughts. >> I love best buddies. Hi, I'm Annie Gregory and I'm in sixth grade at Hobart Middle School. I joined Best Buddies because it's a great way to make new friends with and without disabilities and include them in all events and activities you do. It's a great way to get to know other people and make lots of new friends that you never think you would have. Best Buddies is a great opportunity to like express yourself
013in many ways and find people similar to you. >> Uh hi, I'm Liam Jensen and uh I'm from Hover Middle School. Uh, I'm in the seventh grade and the reason I joined Best Buddies is because it's actually really fun because many people in Best Buddies because it's for all ages and for people and with or without disabilities. Everyone's welcome. So, I think everybody should be together in Best Buddies. And really, it's just a great place to make friends and have fun. How much? What do you say? All right. Okay. >> So, uh, while we're taking the time to recognize our amazing student speakers, I will read what's on their certificates. So, during disability awareness month, we celebrate students who help create a culture of inclusion, respect, and belonging. Your involvement in unified and inclusive activities
014helps strengthen our school community and reminds us that everyone has something valuable to contribute. The school city of Hbert is proud of you and the positive difference that you make. Signed by Dr. Buffington on March 19th of 2026. All right, give them a round of applause. You did awesome. >> All right. Similarly, we have a a similar program at the high school. But before I call up their best buddy program, um I want to call up the unified sports uh team that we have and I'm going to call up our athletic director, Mr. Black. Mr. Black, can you come up and talk about unified uh unified sports, I should say, track and bowling? >> Thank you, Dr. Thank you to the board. The opportunity on our kids. I'd like to call up coach pick up
015ahead as well. >> Mike, do you want to come over the mic? >> Oh, yeah. Forgot about that. after we get the certificates. All right. In 1987, March was designated as National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month. And this was uh for three primary goals. Promote inclusion, raise awareness of the contributions of people with disabilities, and remove community barriers. And that's exactly what we try to do with our unified sports program at the high school in 2018. Now, the IHSAA, which is our governing body for high school sports in Indiana, uh started Unified Sports in 2011. And in 2018 when I was hired to be in this position, uh, my first goal was to start unified sports here at Hobert. We were very fortunate to have one of our teachers at the time, Brian Wesley, and Jackie
016Keefe at the time, now Jackie Picket, being willing to take on the challenge of starting this program at the high school. Now, the IHSA requires you to have six athletes and six partners to actually qualify as a team, which is 12 total athletes. Uh, we had 13 in our first year in 2018. From 2019 through 2022, our numbers grew. Uh, our kids had a lot of fun competing together. Uh, but Jackie and I, we talk every year regardless of whatever level of success our our teams may or may not have, we always want to keep the main thing the main thing and that is an inclusive program that pairs individuals with and without intellectual disabilities on the same teams to promote friendship, inclusivity, and understanding through competing in sports. In 2023, our unified track team
017were IHSA sectional champions and uh for the first time ever, the high school successfully completed the requirements to become a unified champions together school. I'd like to read those requirements. Uh the IHSA and Special Olympics Indiana uh partnered together to recognize schools that complete these requirements as champions together. They need a studentled committee, which is our Bricky Buddies program at the high school. You must have inclusive activities, which we have a lot of them. Uh, balish ball or threeon-ree tournament, inclusion prom, and a spirit week to name a few. We do participate participate in at least one unified sport, and that's track and field that's recognized by the IHSAA. And then we fund raise uh $1,500 or more to go to Special Olympics Indiana. In 2023 is the first year we've done that. We did
018it again in 2024. We did it again in 2025. And we are certainly on pace to do it again in 2026. In 2024, our unified track team qualified for the state finals and placed 10th out of 12 schools down in Bloomington. In 2025, I know I get excited when I think about it, too. In 2025, we qualified again for the state finals and finished 10th out of 13 schools in Indianapolis. Uh, and again, we've been unified champions together every year since 23. This year, uh, gosh, it was in the fall. Jackie approached me about Where'd she go? Okay. Jackie approached me about she said hey what do you about what do you think about starting unified bowling and I was like well uh that's not an IHSAA sanctioned sport but it is a champions together
019program through Special Olympics why not um and Jackie ran with it and organized things got our kids involved and there are only 42 unified bowling teams in Indiana we were one of them this year we qualified for believe it or not, the state finals. And our kids placed 10th uh two weeks ago in the state final competition. Now, just to kind of wrap this up, we are on pace to be a unified champions together school for the fourth straight year. And by adding unified bowling, uh, we should now meet the 10 standards of excellence to be recognized as a national banner school. Uh, when I looked at this program, uh, there are only three schools in Indiana that were recognized as national banner schools and we are hoping to become the fourth. Uh, applications are
020open at the end of this month through May and Jackie and I will be working on completing that to get it submitted. Huge props though to Brian Wesley and Jackie for everything they've done to get this off the ground. And I want to say particularly to Jackie for carrying the banner and leading our program with ambition, integrity, and most of all compassion. She really does a fantastic job with our student athletes. Uh we are lucky to have someone like her in this position. Let's give it up one more time for Jackie out. So um you heard him say that you have to have a a buddy program. So Bricky Buddies is a part of this as well. And Mr. OA the principal is going to come up and say a few words about that. And
021then um I don't think we have any Ricky buddies that are out there because I think they're all up here. Okay, awesome. All right, Mr. OA, >> I will just tag along to what Mike said. Uh, you know, a lot of credit goes to to Jackie for uh spearheading all this, but uh the majority of the work is done by the kids that that are the the Bricky Buddies that uh watching them interact daily with uh together and and including them in the activities and watching just the interaction that they have in in the hallways with with everybody. Uh, you know, I I know part of my favorite parts of the day are actually going to Jackie's room and interacting with those students and seeing the relationships that they have built uh with the Breaking
022Buddies program and seeing the things that the activities that they do. Uh, this week Jackie put together a a power hour schedule that uh had multiple activities for the students to do. Um, you know, the the it's fun when they come in and they do cooking with us uh with Dr. buffing them in the cooking, but just seeing the relationships they they build and and and seeing how they interact is pretty special. Um, and I don't think that I think we're pretty unique um in in how our kids interact with each other. Uh, and and it makes me proud every day to see that interaction uh and and just just watching them, like I said, grow together and and and help each other out. It's awesome. So, I'm glad it's happening at the middle school.
023I'm glad my daughter's my daughter is part of it. I'm excited to watch her grow through this program as well. But, uh, it's it's just it's a special part of the day to see to see this and know that we have this. So, proud of everybody up here and again, thanks to Jackie for all she does for these programs. >> We would be remiss not to say he would never give himself any credit either, but this was a goal and a dream of our athletic director. And so could we please give him a round of applause? By the way, we have a lot of fun cooking with Dr. Buffington and friends. And uh it would not be the same if they weren't in there with us. And I love watching them help each other. And
024uh we like to eat what we cook. So there you go. Um now I'm going to call up Miss uh Mrs. Picket. I have a hard time remembering that too. And she's going to say a few words. We're going to hear a few words from our students and couldn't be prouder of all of them. So, come on up. >> I I still go by Keith. Um I did get married to pick it, but I still go by Keith. Um I do have to thank Dr. Buffington, Mr. Black, the board, and Mr. Oika for um letting me go with all these wonderful things. Um, I am a crier, so if I do cry, I apologize. Um, I am proud of this team. They do go above and beyond. The peer mentor program we have at the
025high school is very unique. Um, it's wonderful because not only do they come in and help, they have friendships beyond the classroom. Um, I am going to do call Micah who's one of our coaches. Um, Micah started as a peer mentor probably his freshman year, sophomore year. Um, now he's a coach on our team and he's also one of my peer professionals. So, um, just being a peer mentor does last longer. Um, you know, Mr. Black and I work closely together to make sure we're inclusive. Um, we showcase our athletes. Our partners make sure our athletes are our stars. We're not just partner athlete, we're a team. It's not just, oh, we're here for the athletes. Um, we're here for everybody. Um, for those who got to witness bowling, that was our first time. That
026was wonderful. Um, it was all about the athletes. It was an amazing experience. If you get to see unified track, um that is once in a lifetime thing to see. You know, going to state the last two years was I can't even put into words what it meant to the students. Um the athletes and everything. Um you know, it's just a loss for words. So, I'm going to let a couple of the kids come up. Um Summer is going to start us off. Um Summer's our super senior. Um she's been with us five years now. Um, so Summer's going to tell us a little bit about what she thought about uh track bowling and having some friendships she's made through best our Bricky Buddies program. We call it Bricky Buddies just because we don't tie
027ourselves into Best Buddies. We kind of do our own little thing, you know. Yeah, we do best. You got a question? >> No, I all you got? >> Yes, they can. All right. And Bricky Buddies is just like Best Buddies. We meet once a week during Voice and Choice. We do after school stuff. Um, we do parties, we do games, we do we did all the Voice and Choice stuff. We design our own our shirts. Um, what else do we do? guys help me out here. I love everything. We do lots of things. We do all the things. Um, most of our Bricky buddies are actually on our track and bowling team. All right, Summer Ray, come on up and tell everybody about stuff. I'm right here. Tell everybody what did you think about this
028year? >> I loved it. >> What did you love the most about >> the dance party? Oh, the dance. Okay. And what do you like about track? >> Very fun. >> It's very fun. >> Yes. >> And do you think what do you think about making friends? >> I love that. >> Good job. >> Okay, our next one I have uh Livia. Um, Liv's been a peer mentor um all four years. She's a senior, so um she's graduating from us this year. Um she's also going to be if she won't take enough credit, she kind of helps me out a lot in the classroom, in track. Uh I don't have anything else to say without crying. All right, go ahead. >> Okay. Hi. So, I'm a senior this year. Um, so Miss Keeps not letting
029on, but we've actually known each other for like ever. She was like one of my softball coaches in like eight you. So we're like this. Sorry. Um, so I've done unified track for four years now. It's been the first year I kind of got dragged into it. I was not going to lie. I was going to do regular track and then I had to run like 12 200s and I was like, "Yeah, no." So I quit. And then my friends Bri and Margot were like, "Yo, come to unified track." So that was 2023. That was when we had won our first sectional title. And then I stuck it out. And then, you know, past two years we've gone to sectionals and then regionals and state. And then this year we started bowling. Um I'm terrible
030at bowling. My my family, they're all bowlers. My sister went to college for bowling and I just didn't gain any of that. It was really hard. But it was so much fun going, especially when me and Summer got chosen to do the dance contest and then just, you know, hearing them call our rookie team to get 10th place again. It's like a 10's like our number, I guess, if you would say. But overall, it's just amazing. I love being in the room. I'm in there four times a day. Like she can't get rid of me. Third, fifth, seventh, eighth. Um, it's great. Um, underassman, if you're going into teaching, you can cadet teach in there. It's a really great opportunity um for me, you know, I'm gonna be Miss Keefe. That's I've already decided I'm
031going to IUB to become a teacher like Miss Keefe and hang out with these kids 247 cuz they're some of my bffs. Whether it's, you know, whether it's me and Lindsay signing up for the 3v3 tournament three years in a row and losing first round every year or, you know, me and Haley making plans to go to McDonald's after spring break, you know, there's always something and I just love these kids with all my heart and I don't know where I'd be without them. Thank you. Another senior who um we're going to have a big void next year without um is Jaden. He's um been with us since freshman year. Um we're we're going to be lost without him, too. Um Jaden also spends a good chunk of his day with us. Um he's gonna
032come share some words about his journey in the classroom and with track and bowling. Um take it away. >> Hi, I'm Jaden. Um I moved here to Hbert uh going into my freshman year of the summer. uh knew nothing about this my freshman year and then the end I think of my freshman year I got introduced to unified track uh probably was there for like a week and then I didn't go and then sophomore year I joined for real and was there every day every day. Uh I'm very scared. Um, we only play sharks and minnows. >> He's not telling the truth. >> I'm not lying. >> Um, I'm with Liv with the track uh the 200 1200s. Sharks and Minnows is the way to go. Um, I'm so scared. Uh, these kids are my
033everything. Um, I was always told you will go into life with a couple of friends, maybe one or three, but I got a family. Thank you. >> That was a great I I think what a lot of you don't realize is that Olivia's going to be a special ed teacher. Um I think there's others up here that are going into teaching. Micah is going into special ed teaching. Um and so um they're touched and um they make a huge difference and we're so glad that they come back and and they help us with things. Um I should point out that they they not just mentor uh in uh special needs, but many of them are mentors to our freshman class because we all could use a little help, right? And so, um, to, uh, the
034Bricky Buddies in here, I recognize the calling that you have, and I just want to say thank you because we use your talents everywhere and you are, um, you embody what it means to be a Bricky. So, we're proud of you. Do we have any more speakers? >> Anybody else? >> If she doesn't, stop crying. >> Do you want to say something, hun? Sure. Come right on up. I was waiting for you to do that. >> Hi, I'm Cheyenne. I'm a junior. My freshman year, I wasn't really like interested in joining unified track or unified bowling. But then my sophomore year, I got pushed into it by Lindsay Summer. All of my friends in here wanted me to join and my mom wanted me to join. And it's the best thing that I ever did.
035You don't just make friendships, you make best friends, you make family, but you're also seen. like you're not like if you're sad in the classroom, someone will help you. You're not alone. You have everybody here. Even if you guys aren't the best of friends, they're still here for you and they will always be here for you. Thank you. >> All right, we're going to read what's on their certificate and we're just so proud of all of them. I do want to recognize because we had such an audience in the back that I have one of the administrators from the middle school and I know you would be so disappointed if I did not introduce Mr. Reno. Right. Yes. There you go. Give him the G-way. There you go. Yeah. >> Yeah. Mr. Reno. All right.
036Uh Grace Anderson is going to read what's on their certificates. All right. This is a certificate of appreciation that is presented to all these students up here. It says, "During disability awareness month, we proudly recognize your dedicated your dedication to supporting inclusive opportunities for students at Hobert High School. Your commitment to fostering a culture of respect, belonging, and understanding helps create a community, a school community where every student feels valued and supported. Thank you for the positive difference you make in the lives of our brickies." Signed by Dr. Buffington on March 19th. >> All right. Um, a special thank you to the parents for bringing them out tonight. It's important to recognize their inclusivity along with the people that are supporting them and we couldn't be prouder of all of them. So, thank you uh
037for being wonderful parents. Thank you again to Best Buddies, Bricky Buddies, and to all of our athletes. Um, and go get them at state, right? I don't want 10. Let's get off the 10. Okay. All right. Thank you so much. Mr. Black might want to scooch. You might want to scooch in just a little bit. Okay, this next announcement is for the audience. If you do have homework or something else to do, you are more than welcome to leave. Our next item on the agenda is paraprofessional appreciation day. Bye, Gavin. >> Bye, Amy. >> I'll give them a minute to go here. >> Thank you. Thank you, Mr. Black. There they all go. >> I have no clue. I'm not sure. I know. >> I'll give them a minute. Talk over them. Christmas is out
038there. Either one It's kind of neat. All right, I think we can move on here. We're good. >> All right. >> You ready to read resolution? >> Professionals day. in a minute. >> Okay. >> Yeah, I think I think you're right. >> Michaela, Jaden, >> everybody's ready for a break. Everybody's ready for break, too. >> Some people >> want to be on my podcast. >> Like emails me all the time. >> We were in Tennessee, but the circumstances weren't always I mean, the circumstances were good, but there was a lot going on. So I just reposted on my Facebook only seventh grade. >> He asked me if I was going to be at the board. Amanda song at the humane societ. That's awesome. >> Love it. >> You can see they're all >> I love
039that. >> Great job, Jaden. >> Bye, Colton. >> We had fun cooking. You know it. >> Alrighty. So, item on the agenda, pair professional appreciation day. And There is a resolution number 26-26. Dr. Buffington. >> Um, yes. Pair professionals. Where would we be without them? Lost. Um, and I just want to say to all of the pair professionals as he gets ready to recognize them with a resolution. Uh, they are amazing individuals. They're an extra set of hands, an extra pair of eyes, and they're compassionate, kind, and they love kids. And so, Um, hats off to them and we're so glad that they work for us. >> Thank you. Mr. Porus, if you would read the resolution, please. >> Yes, we have resolution number 2026-6, par professional appreciation day. >> The board adopt resolution number
0402026-6 professional app. >> We have a motion and a second. Is there any discussion board for >> I would just like to say sorry Sandy um I would just like to say that um regardless of their title they are invaluable um they are um helpful to the teachers and the students both and we do appreciate the work that they do. I also want to just thank our professionals because sometimes they have a thankless job. They work as hard as anybody else in the building and um it's it's always a pleasure when you see one who is insightful that goes on to become a teacher and a lot of times that is the pathway for professionals and personally I just want to say in the past in my career they have been such an important part
041of what we do. Thank you to >> Mr. For please and board. Would you also do a electronic vote as well? >> David Cosby. Hi >> Rogers. >> Hi >> Brad. >> Hi >> Schultz. >> Hi. >> And that passes 70. Thank you board. Next item on the agenda is another resolution for the week of the young child. Dr. Buffington. or if you have a copy of a resolution that recognizes the week of the young child and uh we've been doing this for a very long time now our from the start and um this is just to bring awareness to how important foundationally and important uh the importance of of early childhood education and uh that's from birth all the way through. Um but particularly we celebrate this wholeheartedly with community birth to kindergarten and
042that would be all of the preschools in Hbert. Um, and we just we do this with a lot of different things that uh we bring awareness with it. So, for instance, on Monday, April 13th, that's our bubble kickoff with the mayor and myself. We have a lot of fun over at the early learning center doing that. We're we're hoping for good weather. Um on Monday, April 13th, talking is teaching. Um trusted messenger training. This is so important. Um especially today when all communication is this and children need to hear you. They need to be able to enjoy a book and you just talk to them in the car and not be on your phone at the dinner table, not be on your phone. And um we don't want kids learning how to swipe, right? We
043want them learn how to talk and and to communicate and to to be um just these fluent speakers and enjoy just being with someone and talking with them. So, this program is so good. Um I hope people come out for that. Uh family talk, read and sing to your child. Once again, you hear us really stressing how important it is to speak and talk seeing patterns with your children. Wednesday, April 15th is the parent playbook. That's our kindergarten edition event for new parents coming into kindergarten. And uh we're doing this a little bit different. Uh we're having them at the high school and um this was born out of the idea. Um myself along with the co-principles here at the high school, we do a kickoff program for freshman parents. It's a freshman's guide to
044high school. Um and I told them that we did that with high schools. Why shouldn't do something like that with kindergarten parents. So, we're going to do give that a try. And then on Friday, April 17th is talking is teaching space. Um, and so again, notice how it's all about communication. And so, um, can't wait to kick off those events and I'll turn it over to our secretary for the resolution. >> Thank you. >> Yes, we have resolution number 2026, week of the young child. like to make a motion that the board adopt resolution number 2026-7 commemorating the week of the young. >> I'm sorry, who was that second? Thank you. >> All right, board. We have a motion and a second. Is there any discussion? And Mr. Forest, if you would do a roll
045call, please. >> Yes. David Cosby. >> Hi. Hi, >> votes I >> and that passes 70. Thank you board. Our next item on the agenda is the recommendation to accept the school city of Hobber Educational Foundation grants. Dr. Buffington. >> That's right. U Mr. M is on the grant committee as well as I am. Um, and of course you have Dave Cosade that represents the board on um on the Hbert Educational Foundation. Uh, this year we have Melissa Higson who submitted a grant and for those that have any history on the board, uh, we take our physics class up to Great America and and so this is that trip and it's well worth uh, awarding a grant. Mrs. Pig actually took that class on mid year and it was really important that we didn't try
046to have her fund raise for this entire trip. And so, we're grateful to the foundation for coming through for us and they uh accepted the grant application for $1,664. And I would ask the board to accept that with great appreciation to the foundation. >> I'd like to make a motion that the board accept the grants from the school of education foundation as presented. >> Second. We have a motion and a second. Is there any discussion? Board foundation. And that passes 70. Thank you, board. All righty. Next item on the agenda is an overnight student trip request for the Hbert Middle School Natural Helpers Spring Retreat and this is another annual event and um this is to help build leadership uh amongst peers. Uh this natural helpers trip has been going on uh as long as
047I can remember and it's something that's always memorable by our students that attend it. Um this year it will be at Camp Butternut Springs in Valzo around Seventh and eighth graders will travel uh leaving April 2nd, returning on April 3rd. Their sponsors are Aaron Swaffford and Scott Swanson and Jane Griffin uh will be a shaper. And this is just a great opportunity for team building and leadership. Board action is requested. >> Let's make a motion that the board approve the natural helpers overnight study trip as presented. >> We have a motion and a second. Is there any discussion? Ladies, All right. I know one of mine did. I enjoyed it very much. So, it's a great program. And that passes 70. Thank you, board. Next item on the agenda is another overnight student. This one
048is for the 2026 JOTC Raider National Championship Competition. >> All right, for in your packet, here's one of those uh trips that is again an annual trip. Um but this one is for our JOTC. Uh they will uh it's for the Raider National Championship at Fort Knox on April 16th through the 18th. They'll travel in two district activity buses, 16 cadets, grades 9 to 12. Let's go Raiders. Um the cadets must be academically eligible and permission from their parents. There's no cost. Um all ROC funds and so action is requested. >> Second. We have Sorry, Frank is closer so I hear him better. So >> that's good. No, that's good. >> We have a motion and a second. Board, is there any discussion? >> Good luck to them. >> Yes, they always do well and
049we'll do it again. I'm sure >> we have an expectation. >> Right. Right. And that passes 70. Thank you, board. Next item on the agenda is our wellness policy. Dr. Buffington. >> Um, in your packet. You have a copy of our wellness policy. Um, and that policy, uh, as you well know, it's part of Neiola and part of your board policy. And, um, there really haven't been any changes, uh, noting that, uh, it was adopted in 2025. So, at that point, the board really just has to acknowledge that we do have a wellness policy and we do indeed try to enact it. >> Okay. Since this is not a voting agenda, I would like to say that we do acknowledge and receive and review the district wellness policy. >> Oh, it is supposed to be
050I'm sorry. It's supposed to be an action. >> That's okay. >> I'd like to make a motion the board acknowledges that they have received the district. >> Second motion and a second. Is there any discussion board? If not, please electronic vote. Thank you, board. That passes 70. Next item is a consideration for a trademark license renewal agreement for the Hobbert Pop Warner Scholars Incorporated. >> There you go. This is an annual agreement for them to use Yan. Um it's a renewal for their trademark license agreement. And um as you can see the agreement is attached and um they will be using the same yogan logo on the coach's shirts. Uh and it'll either be on the front left chest or center tagline on the back and the pants of the uniforms. Action is requested. I'd
051like to make a motion that the board renew the trademark license agreement with the over popcorn little scholars Incorporated as presented and authorize the superintendent to sign the agreement on behalf of school city over second. >> We have a motion and a second. Is there any discussion? >> I just want to thank for trying to keep all of that in mind. She does great job at it. >> Yeah. Well, you know, would you like to see my agenda today? I'm lucky I know it's Thursday. Let's just say >> and that passes 70. Thank you, board. Our next item on the agenda is the trademark license agreement for Hover Pop Warner Scholars for Spirit Wear. >> Yes. And this is the one where um you know, we keep a pretty close eye on it because we
052don't want them being in competition with us. And so um you know we have to go back and forth with them just a little bit on this and we've come to agreement that we don't want them competing with our spiritware. Right. >> So um you do have a trademark license agreement there with what um our agreement is and the 10% royalty that they would be give back to the school system. By the way the those 10% royalties that you always see with a trademark agreement using Johan always goes back to bricks from the start which early childhood program. So, we put that right back to young children. Uh the term of the trademark license agreement would be for two years, March 19th, 2026 through March 18, 2028. Board action is requested. >> Like to make
053a motion that the board renew the trademark license agreement with the Hover Pop Warner Little Scholars, Inc. as presented and authoriz the superintendent to sign the agreement on behalf of the school city of >> second. >> Okay board, we have a motion and a second. Is there any discussion? >> I think their presented pictures look good enough to differentiate it. The HPW was pretty >> when um that first started happening, it wasn't and um we should have a distinction between that and we to sell all of their spiritware, but we also sell a lot of spiritware uh with our various sports teams, our athletics, our boosters, and um there's plenty out there for people to buy. I'm sure you all have closets full of clothing with the Brickies like I do. So, um more power
054to them and I love the 10% goes back. >> Thank you. And we have a motion and a second. If you please your vote. and we passed 70. Thank you, board. Um, next on the item agenda, we have a report which is an update on the sale of the Ridge View property and possible board action. Dr. Buffington and Mr. Longer, please. >> Thank you. Well, board, as you know, um we did uh go ahead and put out that and we advertised that you could bid on the Ridge View property and um through that process, we have received a bid. Um and um the bidding process, as you know, could be open for 60 days or we could accept a bid um if it uh met terms. And you know, we needed to take a bid.
055It would have to at least be what the average uh would be of the market appraisals that that we had which is one.2 million71,000 and we have received such bid. Now as I uh let the board know that we received that bid from Geminis Head Start uh who is a current tenant at the uh Ridgeview property along with the Hbert Y and um At that point, uh, you are receiving a bid that meets that market value, uh, the average of the two market value appraisals that we had. It's a tenant that is, uh, is using the building right now. And, um, and for all tent, uh, for all purposes, uh, probably would just use the property as is. Uh, and so that would be in our favor. There are tons of families that are serviced
056by Geminis Head Start and by the Hbert Y using that property. And so at this point, uh I am well pleased that they bid on that property. Um I'm going to turn it over to Mr. Longer. And for your consideration, if you uh after you listen with Mr. longer, you may want to accept that intent and that bid and and close the process because in the resolution that you adopted earlier in February, you basically said if we received a bid uh within those 60 days that was uh met the terms that uh we could close the process. So, I'm going to turn it over to attorney Longer and he will give you a little more information about the intent and the bid. >> All right. So, as you'll recall, because we handled the referendum last
057spring the way we did, we're not subject to a requirement to sell the building to anybody for less than fair fair market value. and you previously authorized two appraisals so that we determine what that fair market value was and the average of the two appraisals was the 1,271,000 and that is the the bid that was received. So we have one bid for fair market value. Um the notice was published February 26th bidding opened on March 2nd and the notice provided that um the board you know could entertain bids um for not less than fair market value starting on March 2nd for a period not to exceed 60 days. Notice also provided that a sale could occur to a bidder before the expiration of that 60-day period. You have two tenants in the building now. You
058have the YMCA in there and you have Head Start in there. Both of those are anxious to uh know what's going to happen with the building because they offer programming in the summer and and the start of the next school year and they have to make their plans and they have to know whether they need to relocate or can remain and in order to avoid interrupting services to the school age children. that they serve. The sooner that a decision is made probably the better as far as those kids are concerned as far as the goal of generating additional financial resources for our operating fund. Certainly expediting that decision and process is positive rather than negative for the financial health of the school district as well. The agenda lists a report and lists possible board action
059because there's more than one action the board could take this evening. It could decide to do nothing. It could vote to accept this bid and close the bidding. It could vote to not accept any bids, reject all bids, and it could vote to uh list the property with a realtor. I'm not recommending you list the property with a realtor at this point because that would subject us to having to pay a commission to the realtor. We did order title work and and there's no issues with the title work so that doesn't interfere with the sale. As you know, there's a couple pieces on the south end of the parcel that have been committed to Shirley Hines where there's wet areas and those would not be included in the sale. I believe that, you know, there's
060no legal impediment to accepting the bid received and closing the bidding if the board chooses to do that. I've explained the reasons that the board might consider that to be a good idea. So, at this point, we're asking for a a motion, if that's the board's decision, to accept the letter of intent submitted by Geminis has a bid that is eligible for consideration to accept award that bid close the bidding period. Thank you board. Your pleasure. >> I'd like to make a motion to accept the bid from Geminis Head Start as presented and close the bidding process board. In anticipation of action on this this evening, this afternoon I drafted a proposed resolution. It's not on your agenda, but you could choose to proceed with action on this resolution this evening if you want to.
061And I'll hand that out to you at this time. It basically just articulates what I've said to you and then provides a document that is evidence of the board's actions so that we don't have to produce the full minutes to anybody to show. I apologize. I was typing. Who was the second on that one? Thank you, Ste. So, we have a motion and a second to accept the bid from Geminus Corp and close the bidding process. Is there discussion from the board regarding said motion? Resolution was tied by me, not pass. Mrs. What number resolution would this be if we were to accept it? Is it >> 2026-8? Okay, I'm just going to put that in there. Thank you board. You'll note that at the end of the resolution I prepared, I included language authorizing
062the superintendent, myself to negotiate a purchase agreement with Geminis, and the deadline to have a an acceptable purchase agreement received by May 1st, which is within the 60 days. We certainly don't want to drag things out by not having a purchase agreement. That should be plenty of time to get that result. It also instructs the superintendent if she receives any bids after this point to offer the bidder the opportunity to leave the bid on file with us in case the conditions that were included in the letter of intent and the condition that we put on the acceptance aren't met. So if this doesn't go through for some reason we can go to the other I don't know that we'll receive any other bids. My recollection is that Dr. Buffington reached out to each of the
063tenants to see if they were interested in submitting a bid. There was one other interested party and she reached out to them as well and we haven't heard from I think verbally. So we have a motion and a second. Mr. Porus, if you would read the resolution, please. And because we don't have um a copy on the screen, would you please read the resolution for record. >> Thank you. >> Yes, we have a resolution board of school resolution number 26 resolution accepting bid for purchase of elementary. Whereas a school is the owner of real estate, Indiana, commonly known as 33 Indiana and whereas the board of trustees of the school of find necessary to offer property for sale to the highest bidder pursuant of code-14 is not subject to code-26-7.1 and a bid will receive
064for the fair market value the average appraisals and the notice first published on February 26, 2026 from day to day, 2026 for a period not to exceed 60 days and the property by multiple tenants who provide services to preschool and school children or near the district. One of which is a successful bidder and whereas expediting the sale of the property is in the best interest of the school city of the best interest of the students being currently served at that location in that a decision facilitates planning of all parties for the upcoming school year. Now therefore be resolved by the board of trustees of the school city of Hbert that one the letter of intent submitted by geminist accompanied by a check amount be accepted as bid that bid be awarded upon receipt acceptable purchase
065agreement on May 1st 2026. Third that the superintendent and board attorney are authorized to negot the terms of the purchase agreement with the purchaser. Fourth, that period be closed. that the superintendent respond to any bids received after this date by the bidder that has been awarded and that it has conditions and offer to hold a subsequent receive until it is determined whether the conditions will be met. >> Thank you board. Is there any further discussion in regards to this resolution? If not, we are going to do a roll call vote. And if you would also provide electronic vote as well. >> David Cosby. >> Hi. >> Rogers. >> Hi. >> Schultz. Hi. >> I >> And that passes 70. Thank you, board. And the la one of not the last item, my apologies. Um the
066next item on the agenda is the the added um item from earlier and that is the overnight student trip request for the girls softball team >> and board. This is a an actual late item that we needed to add to this agenda because you do uh approve overnight trips. Uh there are a lot of things involved with um this particular trip. that the girls had to try out softball and so could not figure out who would be eligible to go on this trip and so at that point um trying to get the documentation together um and the coaching staff etc. And so what you have here is a request to attend a really cool softball tournament and uh Murphy'sboro, Tennessee. Uh 16 team members will travel in school city of Hobbert activity buses and leave
067Hbert on March 26 then return on March 29th. Two coaches and six parent chaperones will also be in attendance. The team will play four games and will attend team breakfastes and dinners as well participate in multiple team building activities and um this is a unique opportunity for them and so I would uh I highly recommend that they be uh able to attend this event and will be good for them especially with the team building side of it as well. So board action is requested >> like high school. >> We have a motion and a second. Is there any discussion? That would be um that would be their newly hired coach that will be on the next uh board docket. Well, we he's technically a volunteer right now until you hire him. We need to see
068if any certified staff members would apply for that position and they have not. So, >> all right. And that passes 70. Thank you, board. Up next is our updates, announcements, and reports. Dr. Buffington, >> in your packet, you have a copy of our weekly agendas, and you also have a copy of the Brick Center athletic news uh letter, and uh you can take a look at those uh at your pleasure. >> Thank you. Our next item is the upcoming activities and events, Dr. Buffington. >> All right. Well, we have online registration which is going on and it is very slow. Uh I really would recommend that people go out and register. Um and a lot of people don't realize why we have to do that every year. You do have to prove that you live
069here and that you are able to attend school here. Then that also tells us what our enrollment's going to be and uh some viable spots that are very limited for open enrollment. And open enrollment is really important to our district right now. Um you know we have low birth rate happening and um also there's school choice that happens and um when your when your when your membership drops just a little bit then it's like taking a pay cut, right? And so, um, it's really important for us to make sure we know where we're going with enrollment because that's how we hire staff and keep staff. And so, really encourage people to do that. On the parent side of things, it's really important that you update your information. People change cell phones, emails, they move addresses,
070and we get a hold of you through that that online system that we use to register you, which And so I'm really encouraging people to get out and get that done. I saw the numbers. They're in the low 10 to 12% of people that have actually done that. Um and then when you're looking at March 19th, we have all pro dad. We have spring break coming up. I'm sure you guys are looking forward to that. Good Friday, April 3rd, no school. Uh we have incoming freshman uh parent night, which is April 6th. Uh and then uh Bricky Maker Innovator coming up all district music festival very enjoyable um April 13th through May the 8th I learn and April 15th incoming kindergarteners here at um at the high school for their parents and then we have
071the anxious generation part two that parents actually asked for on April 21st. Um you can see very very busy month of April. It used to just be the month of May that was like that. Now it is April and May. Actually, it's every month, but that's a good thing, right? Um, so there you go. Upcoming events. >> Thank you. Our next item is comments. Dr. Buffington. >> Well, I was able to attend Romeo and Juliet and see one of our stars that is sitting to my right. Grace did an awesome job in Romeo and Juliet. Um, and then I can just say, um, what a rewarding board meeting tonight to see inclusion at its finest. And we should all be extremely proud of our students that volunteer and then even decide to go into that
072for a career. Um, and so I couldn't be prouder of that and I know you are as well. And I want to just thank our students again and our sponsors. Very, very special. And, um, that's it for me for announcements. If I forget I'll just chime in. >> Thank you, Mr. King. >> Oh, I I do I I'm sorry. I did forget to say um I would be remiss not to say that I am ever grateful for Mr. Longer. uh when you're going through something like the sale of a piece of property and it you know my expertise is an educator and obviously I have policy I have a lot of budgetary things and all kinds of things under my belt technology things like that but just the legal process of it and making sure
073that we follow all the the statutes the law and do everything accordingly um we would be lost without him and um I just want to publicly how how lucky we are to have him and I wanted to make sure that I >> just want to second the comments about every time they're here they're really amazing and it just feels good it's amazing that elementary school inclusioning I think the best part was when they spoke themselves talking. It means a lot. I know I've got a lot of kids from Jackie's class and they talk about unified track and bowling. They love it. It means a lot. They come in and they want to talk about it. >> Thank you, Mr. Longer. I think we had a lot of proud parents here this evening. Kids did great.
074Public speaking is not easy for students and some of these kids get up and get through that as well as Mr. >> Yeah, definitely. I'd like piggy back on that to see those kids and um the inclusion and them to be a part of that uh program that we offer um just says that we're doing things the right way here uh in school city over um but uh just comment briefly on the bingo from Saturday for the education foundation uh went really well uh raised uh probably once it's all in probably right around $4,500 um after the night was over. Uh it was a great evening, a lot of fun. Uh great crowd. Um thank you to all the people who donated. Um put it on the record that a lot of our elementary schools
075donated stuff as well. So thank you to all them and our PTOs. Um so just a great amount of support uh for a great cause. I have >> Thank you for all of your work because you work tirelessly. We appreciate you. >> Thank you, Mr. I think I was impressed up there with stand up there and their opinions I think was pretty impressive. I'd like to thank Bill for all of his work and I'd like to thank Dave for his work. Can I just mention something to you about Jaden who was all of a sudden very nervous to speak up there? Do you remember Jaden? And um Jaden actually volunteered to be a mentor with the freshman and um he was in my group because we you know as Shuene knows we we put this
076off the ground this year. Um, and Jaden is one of those students that actually by real life experience talked to the freshman about how he didn't do things right in his freshman year. And he comes out very boldly and talks to them about how he dug a hole. He wasn't doing his absolute best. And um, and he wants to encourage them to take a different path. And so um, I'm not sure why he was so shy here tonight. because it was a bunch of adults. Um, but when you put him with kids, he does an amazing job and he's really um become such a a really good light for the freshman class. And so I'm proud of him. I've seen him grow um and he needed to grow and he did. And so um it's
077just like you said, it's nice to see them get up and speak. um they are so attached to that room that if they could spend all day in there they would. And so that says a lot about the program. >> Mr. Ke and your guidance through all of these processes. Thank you for your work with the foundation. very fun. Had a good time from the parks board meeting that I attended since we last met. Uh they approved their resolution, their first one of the year to approve the park. So they are working on that and getting their drawings together and pushing forward from the NY meeting. The disability week was put on as well. They had their doors all decorated which looked really nice. Not a whole lot regular stuff as far as I would
078like to say that the pledge of allegiance with so many people in the audience saying it was really powerful. I really like that. And then best buddies you can really see the confidence and bravery that these kids get from being involved and having their buddies here with them being together. I think the true friendships that are there would probably not have otherwise occurred that facilitated like oh and there will be tomorrow in equivalent value items hot dogs and chips What time is it? >> We'll have a few more. >> And your family does a great job. Is there lemonade? >> Do you want lemonade? I'll bring a personal. >> Although I will, if I could add one more thing. Um, next year for disabilities, I would like to reinvite the baristas. They didn't make it
079this year. I was looking for some hot chocolate. >> I'll try to get them on the >> That's right. >> Thank you. Mr. >> RDC increased their budget from $30,000 to >> Yeah, that's great news. I mean, we've been recipients of the grants that they put out. Um, but you know, there's there's three technically three school corporations. So, um, it's nice that they increased it to 50,000 in case we don't get it here. But we have plenty of ideas and plenty asking. So there you go. >> Susie, you're up next. >> I really loved tonight being a part of the recognition process for Bricky Buddies. I think between Dr. Buffington, Grace, Mrs. Picket, and myself, we did a pretty good job handing out certificates. That was definitely the most I think at least in our
080time on the board that we've handed out in one night. And it went pretty smoothly. So, I'm really >> Yeah, I'm really happy at that. Um, I love being a part of that process, not only getting to see peers being recognized, but also getting to hear their testimonies up at at the stand. I mean, I I've like I've never worked closely with Mrs. Picket because I've never been in like that room before. But even just from listening to the testimonies, I can tell she's had a really big impact on a lot of people's lives. Like, wow. Like the power of an educator. I was like, this is perfect, you know? So, I loved hearing the testimonies earlier. I know we talked about it briefly, but uh Mrs. Higginson got got brought up for helping with
081applying a grant for the Six Flags Great America physics field trip, which is such a fun time. I went on it my sophomore year and great time. I love Mrs. Higuson. I love that she's picking it back up to make sure kids can still go on that field trip. Um, any underassman listening, if it's being offered next year, definitely take physics. Don't be scared. It's a great class. And They should be scared, but it's okay. >> Yeah, maybe be scared, but there's a physics like field trip, so >> they can call you up for tutoring. >> Yeah, I'll I'll do my best. No promises. Um Yeah. And honestly, all of our hard work coming to uh and end here right before we, you know, go on to spring break. I think it's a welldeserved break
082for all of us. >> There you go. >> All right. >> Oh, Grace has even more news, but I did not let the cat out of the I saw it already. >> I will save that for the end of my comments. But I first want to mention the inclusivity that I noticed today is very important. Being able to have students find their community, no matter what that community is, is super important. Finding those people that they can really connect with and learn from, but also impact them. Um, as something that I do in my extracurriculars and seeing that other people can find their own way of doing that is really important to me. And on that note, I have some very exciting news. I have decided which college I'm attending. I am attending Purdue University
083West Lafayette. Not only because it is a great school, but I have also been awarded the Stamp Scholarship through their honors college, which provides me with a full ride for undergraduate, as well as some extra money to complete a study abroad, research, and internships. Anything that gives me um more academic opportunities and things like that. So, I'm very grateful for that and I just want to give my thanks to everyone on this board who has made the opportunities that I have been a part of on this uh school city of Hbert that has really allowed me to earn that scholarship. Um, Wolf Gang Theater, just being in this position really means a lot to me and is really what allowed me to earn that. So, I appreciate all of you guys and for being so
084supportive throughout the journey. >> Thank you. proud of you. Very proud of you, >> Mr. Forest. >> Well, congratulations on your choice. Was well deserved and I'm sure you did a lot of long study nights and hard work to get that done. So, congratulations. As far as the inclusion that took place here, it was not by accident. Like our motto is being excellent on purpose. They also hoping to make one or two friends and he gained a family everybody's welcome here. >> So everybody no matter who you are you're welcome to the family. get to know each other and support each other. That's very important at the high school level. Mr. Longer, thank you very much. You made a very complex and confusing process a lot easier for us to understand what's going on. So
085once again, thank you for your extra experience and wisdom and for the seniors and everybody else. Have an enjoyable spring break. Thank you, Mrs. Want to start out with the same sentiment as everybody else. Um, the thank yous to Mr. Long for their hard work. Um, and about the inclusivity tonight. Wow. There was a point where when the one student said, you know, it's a place where I go and he said they love me. You know, I looked over. I saw you. You know, sometimes you don't realize you need something and you get and tonight we got something very special that you're not paying attention because that really is something special. So beautiful. >> So I think that you could ever just see them when we're cooking with friends because they do come in and
086they buddy up when they're cooking with us but as they're going through the line um the special needs kids help each other. So, like the Ricky buddies are like not around and a couple of them can't hold their plates and so others are asking them what they want. They're putting it on their plate and and so they're learning to to give back. And so it's really it's just such an amazing program all the way around. Just come such a long And then I just wanted to wish all the kids going on these study trips. That's a lot of really good stuff. So good luck and best wishes to all of them. I'm just happy to hear that people. I'm going to probably reiterate a lot of things here. Um, as far as the inclusivity that
087was here this evening, it was really beautiful. Sandy did and I had a little little misty thing going on. Um they're they're amazing kids and um I can I've heard the stories already about um how they brighten up cooking with Dr. B. They they bring a certain sense of um I don't even know what to describe it as when they >> they're joyful. >> They are when they come into that room and um it's vice versa. So we think that we as I don't know to say that we think we're including them, but it goes the other way too. They include us. And so that is the beautiful thing. Um number two, Mr. Longer, thank you for your assistance and your um wisdom and knowledge that are so awesomely applied um to help us here.
088We appreciate you. Um Dave, thank you for your thing with bingo. And I just donated money that night. I'm just going to say I went to bingo and I played and all I did was donate my money. I know Mr. King did the same. We just went and played bingo and donated all our money and didn't and came home empty-handed. Um, >> you could always fill a gift card. That's what I did. >> We came home empty-handed. >> It was a great time. It was a great time. I had a good time. I'm just saying I came home empty-handed, but it was all and for a great cause. >> Um, and Grace, um, I was lucky enough to see Romeo and Juliet as well on Saturday night. Um, it was great. I enjoyed it very
089much. Um, I did notice that attendance was down. Um, I'm not sure exactly what was behind that. Usually, it's a little bit more busy when I go attend plays or the musicals or whatever in the theater, but attendance seem to be that it just didn't appeal to people. It's a classic. >> That's true. >> But all the kids did a wonderful job. Um, we did enjoy it. Um, and the sets were pretty cool. I liked how everything was easily moved around. I liked that a lot and enjoyed that very much. >> I would say I I mean I thought that it was very elaborate, >> right? The costumes were very elaborate, the dialect, the choreography. Um I mean just really well done. And I think when people hear Romeo and Juliet I I'm going to
090guess that something to do with the attendance just simply because a lot of people are not into very hard performance to put on and our kids did amazing. >> They sure did. >> It was beautiful. >> Lots of these and thous Oh, everyone please enjoy your spring break. Um, nine weeks, girls. Nine weeks. I told them it would go fast at the beginning. They looked at me like I was crazy. Um, but and that's it. I'm going to adjourn the meeting here. Uh, what time we got here?