001meeting. Glad to see everybody here. Hope there's seats for everybody. They some at some point they'll clear up a little bit, but So before the meeting starts, um I'd like to recognize uh Bonnie Nair, who's our new uh board person, who will be seated in January. So you can do the parade wave and so she'll be down here sooner than you think. Okay. Uh roll. >> Uh Goodright. >> Yes. >> Starcher. >> Yes. Here. >> Austin >> here. >> Koozma >> here. >> Kleinhens >> here. >> Okay. Please stand for the pledge. >> Flag go. >> Typically there's a flag right over here. So >> it's [clears throat] around the corner. around the corner. All right. >> I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which
002it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. >> [cough] [clears throat] >> Okay, we need a motion to approve the November 18th, 20125 board agenda as presented and amended. >> So moved. >> Second. >> Any amendments? >> Kleinhens, >> yes. >> Husma, yes. >> Austin, yes. >> Starter, yes. >> Good rightight, >> yes. We need a motion to approve the minutes of the October 13, 2025 work session and October 21st, 2025 board of education regular session. >> So moved. >> Second. >> Okay. >> Starcher, >> yes. >> Austin, >> yes. >> Kleinhens, >> yes. >> KMA, yes. >> Good. Right. >> Yes. Okay. Now we're going to move into our favorite part of the evening and that would be our student recognitions. >> All right. Hello. Oh, are we Buer?
003Oh, yep. We're good. All right. So, um, my name is Heidi Hos. I'm the principal at Edgewood Middle School and I am not used to going first. So, this is kind of a whole new world, but we picked two great kids to go first tonight. The reason we're going first is because they are both in the orchestra and they have a concert tonight at Edgewood. So, they got to zip out of here and get their instruments tuned and ready to roll. So, we are going to first start um with Miss Ava. So, Ava, if you want to come stand next to me. and she is here with her dad Cody UT, mom Chrissy UT, brother Evan, and sister Julia. If you want to give a wave. All right, Ava, are you ready to be bragged
004about? Okay, here we go. And uh her teacher, Mrs. Naidig, is here to say some things about Ava. Good evening. Ava is a quiet leader in our fifth grade classroom. Her peers look up to her because she is outstanding and has an outstanding work ethic in the classroom. and she shows kindness towards all others. She has a positive attitude towards school and advocates for her learning by asking questions to demonstrate her understanding at all times. She is a joy to have in class and she is great at balancing her orchestra life as well as she's headed out of here tonight right after we're done. That is why we chose Ava to be recognized by the board of education for her excellence both in and out of the classroom. Congratulations, Ava. We are so proud OF
005YOU. [applause] WHAT INSTRUMENT [applause] DO we play? >> Awesome. Congratulations. >> Congratulations. >> All right. Congratulations, Ava. And next up, we have Teddy Pollson, and he's joined by mom Shannon, dad, Larry, and brother Reed, if you guys want to give a shout out. All right. [applause] All right. Come on up. All right. Teddy is joined by his teacher, Mrs. Capatosa, who is going to brag about him. Are you ready to go? All right. Teddy is a dedicated fifth grader who gives 100% effort in all areas of his academics. He is a welcoming, kind-hearted student who leads by example. Teddy also always has a smile that is contagious to both his classmates and teachers. That is why we chose Teddy to be recognized by the board of education for his excellence both in and out of
006the academic classroom. Congratulations, Teddy. We are so proud of you. [applause] >> Congratulations. Congratulations. Good evening, community members, members of the board. My name is Gabrielle Montgomery. I have two incredible students to share with you this evening. The first I have with me is Landon Landon Bagby. He is joined by his parents um mom Charlotte and dad Michael and little brother Camden. If you would like to wave to be recognized. [applause] Landon is a first grade student at Cornerstone and his teacher Mrs. Shadbolt is not able to join us this evening, but it is my pleasure to share her nomination with you this evening. So Mrs. Shadbolt says, "Landon has made tremendous progress this year. This is my second year having the privilege of having Landon in my classroom. And watching him grow has been
007one of the most rewarding experiences of my career. This year, he has gained so much independence, knowledge, and confidence and built wonderful friendships along the way. He never fails to make the staff smile. His quirky personality and quick wit ensure there is never a dull moment in our room. Landon has grown in so many ways. He has gone from needing someone to hold his hand throughout the day to confidently walking independently everywhere he goes. He now participates with his first grade peers and is successfully engaging in OG heard and writing activities and we can see him expanding into other parts of the first grade day. We are so proud of the incredible growth he has made. He is a wonderful addition to any room he enters and we are so excited to see what Helsia
008can accomplish. Congratulations, Landon. >> [applause] >> I don't know. Congrats. [laughter] >> Always. always the screens. >> Yeah, >> you love to see him. There you go. Thanks. All right, my second cornerstone student this evening is Hudson Phillips. He is also a first grade student. He is joined tonight by his mom, Asia, and dad, Christopher. If you would like to wave to be recognized. CONGRATULATIONS. [applause] And his teacher, Miss Jensen, is here tonight to share his nomination. Hello. So Hudson is an absolute rock star each and every day at school. Each time he walks through the door, he brings a calm focus and readiness um to learn that immediately sets a positive tone for the day. He listens attentively. He follows directions beautifully and consistently puts forth his very best effort. He has many teachers
009in his day and we've all noticed how hard he works um not only on academic tasks but also participating fully during discussions and activities. He approaches every part of his day with enthusiasm and purpose and it shines through everything he does. One of the most impressive things about Hudson this year has been his tremendous growth. He's made incredible strides both academically, socially, and in his overall confidence. You can see it in the way he volunteers to answer questions, the pride he takes in completing work independently, and the independence he continues to build each day. His time in the GED classroom has been such a wonderful opportunity for him to show what he knows, and he rises to the occasion again and again. I am so pr proud of how far you've come, Hudson, and I'm
010even more excited about where you're headed. Your hard work and determination are opening doors for you, and I cannot wait to continue watching you grow. With your strong work ethic and positive attitude, there is simply no limit to what you can achieve. Good job, Hudson. [applause] Good job, Judson. Good job. >> There we go. Good job. Good job. There you go. >> Yeah. [laughter] Right. Good evening. My name is Darren Nash. I'm the uh principal at Keen Elementary. Um members of the board, thank you for this opportunity tonight. Superintendent Tutor. Um we're excited to honor uh both of our students, Sice Oswald and Braden Vitalo. Um but before I turn the time over to their teachers, I would like to recognize Sesa's parents, Mr. and Mrs. Oswald. Can you guys stand and wave for us?
011[applause] And also like to recognize Braden's parents, Mr. and Mrs. Vitalos and Braden's grandparents. If you could guys could raise [applause] Thank you, uh, Miss Jones and Miss Anderson for just taking the extra time to come be with us tonight. So, we'll turn the time over to you. I am thrilled to introduce Sice as my board nominee, General of the Month. Sice has taken on second grade like a true superstar, working hard, staying determined, and shining bright in everything she does. Sice and I love spending our breaks singing Taylor Swift together. She absolutely loves to sing and music has become such a powerful tool for her. Not only does it bring her joy, but it helps her feel her best. And thanks to her, I now have a whole new playlist. Sice has made tremendous
012growth in managing her frustrations and expressing her emotions in positive ways, proving that just like Taylor Swift, she can shake it off and keep growing every day. Her intelligence, kindness, and fun spirit make her such a joy to work with. Seeing her walk past my room and pop her head in and wave is always such a bright spot in my day. Sice, we are so proud of you and all the progress that you've made. Keep shining, keep singing, and keep being the superstar that you are. [applause] Congratulations. Can I shake your hand or no? >> Thank you. >> Congratulations. That's awesome. Do you want >> Yes. Good job. It is my pleasure to nominate Braden Vitalo for student of the month. He is a walking example of positivity, responsibility, and kindness in our classroom community.
013From the moment he walks in each day, Braden brings a joyful attitude and a can do spirit. He eagerly takes on classroom responsibilities with pride, serving as our class secretary, food coordinator, librarian, and a valuable member of our tech team. No task is too big or too small. He jumps in with a smile and leads by example. Not only is he hardworking and dependable, but he also shows tremendous character. He learns from his mistakes, is a great sport during his favorite games at recess like gaga ball and tetherball. He constantly encourages his classmates. Whether it's helping a friend, organizing supplies, or solving a tough problem, Braden faces every challenge with enthusiasm and perseverance. He truly puts first things first and gives his best in everything he does. [snorts] His love of learning, leadership skills, and
014kind heart make him an exceptional role model in our school. I'm so proud of all he has accomplished so far and I can't wait to watch him continue to shine throughout second grade. [applause] Congratulations. Way to go. Good job. I'll be picking you up off the floor. [laughter] Right. Right. Good evening. My name is Jamie Tucker. I'm the principal at Melrose Elementary. I have two second grade students to recognize tonight. The first is Calvin Smith. Um, who's here with mom Ashley, Dad Wilson, sister Nana, Papa, and Grandpa. If you want to wave to be recognized. [applause] Calvin's teacher, Mrs. Chel was unable to be here, so I'm going to read her nomination. Calvin is a true example of a genuinely kind second grade leader. His heart is pure gold. He shows kindness and warmth to
015all his classmates. He always seeks to understand and considers others feelings. He eagerly takes time to help a friend in need or give someone a hug. Calvin lights up our classroom with his smile every single day. Congratulations, Kelvin. [applause] NICE JOB. Good job. Serious. >> There's the smile. >> Automatic. >> [clears throat] >> Our next student is Brenn Dweiler, who's here with mom Amber, sister Mila, and brother Eastston. If you can wave to be recognized. [applause] Brin's teacher, Mrs. Bukol Chudell, was also unable to be here tonight, so I'm going to read her nomination. Brin is a kind and thoughtful student who consistently goes out of her way to help others. Whether she's finding the right page in a classmate's math workbook, offering help with a tricky problem or lending a hand as a friend
016as friends pack up at the end of the day. Brin's kindness shines through in everything she does. She is a hardworking student and a wonderful role model for her peers. But it's her caring nature that makes her truly special. Congratulations, Brin. You make our classroom a better place. [applause] >> Wonderful. Congratulations. Good evening. My name is Katie Roth. I'm the principal of Park View Elementary and I have two excellent students from our school today to be recognized. The first is Kartan Horton. He is here with his family. If you want to wave to be recognized. [applause] Um he's joined by Mrs. Hoffetter who's here to share his nomination. All right. Tonight, I would like to recognize Karen for his many accomplishments so far in kindergarten, as well as his amazing leadership in our classroom. I
017asked some of Kieran's friends what they liked about Kieran, and here are just a few of their responses. Dawson said, "I like to play with Karen." And Willow said, "Karen is a friend to everyone." So, when Kieran grows up, he wants to be a dad. which speaks so highly of [clears throat] his f sorry and how special they are to him. Kieran is a very hardworking student. He came into kindergarten not knowing many letters and sounds and now he recognizes so many letters and sounds that that we make in our alphabet. Right? He has a desire to learn. He is the first one to the carpet and sits eager to learn the new thing. Um Kieran is an author and an illustrator. His stories that he writes are all about his his family and how
018precious they are. He writes about his time with his sisters and going to Ramsey farms with his favorite people. He has excelled in math, too, as he counts numbers each day and learns about 2D and 3D shapes. A few weeks ago, we had a new student join our class, and without a doubt, I knew the best place to seat this new student was right beside Kieran. He has helped our new student find materials, understand our procedures and rules, and has modeled for him what it looks like to learn in our classroom environment. Kieran is a leader. One of my favorite memories of Kieran this year has to be the times when he sneaks his Dino Stuffy into his book bag without mom knowing. Dino has helped our classroom make applesauce, watching the crockpot to make
019sure it never became too overcooked. He has read with Kieran during our quiet independent reading times and he is learning right side right alongside Kieran. He has the imagination of a 5-year-old Kieran does and that's just one of the many things that I that make him so special to me. Karen, you're off to a great start. I can't wait to see what the rest of this year brings. [applause] Hey, good job. >> That's great. You want to walk around it? [clears throat] [laughter] [snorts] Our next student here to be recognized is Zayn Lacron, a fourth grade student. He's joined by his family. If you want to wave to be recognized. [applause] Mr. Krooks is Zayn's teacher here to share his nomination. All right. Good evening. Um, it's my pleasure to recognize our physical education student
020of the month at Parkview, uh, to Zayn Lacron. He's a fourth grader. Zayn is a student who truly stands out, not only for his athletic ability, but for his character. In our PE classes, Zayn consistently demonstrates the habit begin with the end in mind. He sets goals, works hard every day to improve, and encourages others to do the same. Whether we're practicing team sports or skill building challenges, Zayn gives his best effort and helps his classmates um stay focused and do their best. What really sets Zay apart is his respectfulness. He listens attentively, follows directions the first time, and shows kindness to all the students he works with. He's the kind of teammate who makes uh others better simply by being a great example. Zayn represents what we hope to see in all our students,
021a combination of dedication, positive leadership, and respect. We're proud to recognize him as our PE student of the month. Congratulations, Zayn. Keep up the great work. [applause] [applause] >> Congratulations. Good evening everyone. My name is Margaret Davis. I'm the principal at Worcester High School. It is my honor to introduce our two students tonight. Um the first is Daniel Lux Castro. He's joined tonight by his brother Manuel and sister-in-law, Maria. if you want to wave. [applause] And then here to speak on his behalf is his teacher, Andrea Ellerbrook. Good evening. I have had the pleasure of working with Daniel as his English language teacher for almost two and a half years. And in my job, each time I get a new student, I think to myself that never, even for a day, have I ever been
022as uncomfortable or unsure of myself as new students are in those first days in US schools. It is difficult to express how much courage it takes for a young person who does not speak our language to walk in the buildings here at Worcester City Schools. It takes true strength to face that fear. and Daniel did that with positivity and perseverance. In addition to learning a new language, multilingual students often need to overcome challenges that come with attending schools in other countries whose educational systems look very different from our own. Difficulties often arise when students prior knowledge does not mirror students in our schools and this can be very discouraging. success can feel almost unattainable. Daniel did not let these challenges stop him. He has persevered through difficulty with true determination and commitment to showing up
023with his best. When he understood very little, he kept trying. When he struggled, he asked for help and tried again. Daniel is an incredible example of what can be accomplished when we keep a growth mindset and improve little by little each day. Daniel, I know it has not been easy and I'm so happy to see you thriving this year. You have grown so much as an English learner and in all your classes, especially math. I wasn't the only teacher that nominated Daniel. His algebra teacher also nominated him and the strides he's taken in math are incredible. Manuel and family, I know you are truly proud and will share this honor with the rest of your family in Guatemala. Congratulations, Daniel. Keep working. I'm proud of your success. [applause] >> Congratulations. Our second student tonight is
024Dylan Newberry. She's joined here tonight by dad David and mom Laura. If you guys want to wave. [applause] So Dylan was nominated by her art teacher, [clears throat] Miss Newsbomb, who's extremely sick. She's very upset she can't be here tonight, but she sent me something to read on her behalf. She says, "Well, first, I wish I could give Dylan a huge hug right now, but as they say, the show must go on. I've only known Dylan for two years as my student, yet in that time, I've witnessed incredible personal growth, not only as an artist, but as a young lady as well. Dylan is one of the most naturally skilled creators I've had in my classroom. She can brainstorm, draw, paint, print, sculpt, build, manipulate, and cut paper. And boy, can she cut that paper.
025I've witnessed a spark in Dylan this year that was missing before. She began cutting letters and shapes, layering them onto a painting that was underneath. I'm guessing she loved this process since she didn't have to glue it down right away, but instead she could continue making options until she saw the perfect combination. [clears throat] This first project inspired yet another mixed media piece that includes cut paper. Watching the intricate, colorful, and symbolic shapes growing and changing from her mind's eye is quite the sight to see. Her once quick to finish assignments have turned into thought-provoking, colorful works of imagination and skill. Anyway, to say that I'm proud of Dylan is an understatement. She's become a leader in class as well as an art club with her hilarious, sarcastic wit and also her tender, thoughtful side
026where she takes care of things when needed. I'm blessed to have had the opportunity to be your teacher, Dylan. I can only imagine where your gifts will take you. But no matter where you are, there will certainly be beauty surrounding you because you've created it. Congratulations. [applause] >> You're welcome. Okay, so this is u always our perfect segue. If you have something else to do this evening, if you're here just for the recognitions, this would be the time that you can go eat dinner or do what you got to do. Thanks for coming. has nothing which is crazy. I'm not sure tonight though. Okay, now we're going to move on to U section 4.01 and that'll be a presentation from our superintendent on facilities. [clears throat] >> All right. Thank you, Mr. Goodright. Um, excited
027to share with you guys this evening. um some of the things we've been working on uh related to some facility options. Um and so I will just go ahead and get started to keep us on time here. So I think first um just a couple things. The next couple slides will be a little bit of a review. Um uh really what we needed to we were tasked with the um the the levy failed in May which I'm going to uh talk about on the next page in terms of what that plan was. Um but uh really the result tonight is to provide options for you kind of based on previous feedback. Um some factors related to school funding at both really both the local and state level. um our current expenses and our financial forecasts
028which uh Amy's went over in the last few months um and our focus on long-term planning to continue to strengthen um our district uh moving forward. So, what what I'm going to show you tonight is uh I'm going to review the previous uh facilities plan that was the bond issue of May 2025. Um, and then I'm going to provide five different facility options for you this evening uh with some uh cost estimates um and things that we could you know uh further consider. So the first is to review the May um ballot issue. Uh we were uh proposing a new uh middle school, a 6 through 8 building on the high school campus. Um that was going to be on the north side of Oldman uh more uh closer to Miltown than it would be
029Oldman Road. We were going to use uh egress there at Oak Oakill and also at Miltown. Uh the cost was $67 million. that included um inflation con contingency, purchase of land um and the building itself and the middle school um athletic uh facility um as well which was 3 million of that 67 million. Um if you remember even going farther back in May of 2023 uh we attempted um a bond issue as well. at that time it was two buildings. Um a building at Cornerstone's campus to be a K through2 building and the middle school that you see here. So basically this option was like half of the first option. Um uh we anticipated if we would have passed we would have opened that new middle school in 2028. Uh it was about 3.4 mills
030is what it was going to cost the taxpayer. Um we were going to receive uh funding from the OFCC as a part of that contri uh contribution. Uh we are third eligible for 31%. Um however that 31% is of kind of the lowest common denominator of space. So anything you build anything larger than their space. It it doesn't end up equating to 31% but it was sub a substantial portion. Um and uh after that was going to happen, you were going to have uh K2 at Keen Melrose and Park View. You were going to have three, four, five at Edgewood, six through eight at the new middle school, and a 9-2 high school. All right. So, obviously that plan did not pass. So, tonight I'm going to show you some additional options um that we
031have been kind of working with to to consider, but I think it's important for context to kind of remember where we came from. So I think to frame this well I think it is important to um kind of think about um why this conversation is important. Um I think the first thing is as I've said really since um you know the May election uh is that our facility needs didn't go away as a result of that outcome. Uh it just uh was not that that's not what the community wanted to be the solution. Um but our facilities continue to be in need of uh repair. Um I think we are uh to the point where um we really can't postpone much longer uh making some um significant decisions. Um as you know we'll talk about
032cornerstone as one of these options but really all of our buildings as really the last few years as we've kind of attempted to pass some levies. We've done repair work but we haven't done major renovation type work in those buildings and and those will be needed if we are going to remain with our current facility fleet. Um, couple other things to factor in. We are now in deficit spending. We're on the back side of our operating levy cycle. So, even though we're talking about facilities today, remember that a good portion of the money that um is spent each year is actually on operating, keeping your lights on, keeping your people paid, your buses running. Um and uh so you know when you pass a levy which we did in 2020 initially you start you typically
033you're bringing in more than you're spending each year. Um they never bring in more than the day you passed if you're above the 20 mil floor which is a whole another conversation for today. But we did not receive obviously more money. So now as inflation has risen we are um in a position where we're in deficit spending. That is a typical thing something we expected. Um, you know, our goal is obviously always to try to go as far as possible between operating levy ask and so we are just on that starting that downhill. I did receive in some of the things I'm going to share with you this evening, I did receive uh good feedback. We had uh finance committee this fall. We've had a BAC facilities committee as well um that um also I
034was able to share some of this information and get some feedback for you to consider. Okay. So, moving on to the options. Uh, the first option [clears throat] would be what I would title cornerstone major repairs. Um, we uh estimate. So, I guess I first I want to make sure that you understand what that means. That would be a pretty significant overhaul of the major systems um uh and you know important components of the building. Um, it is not I I do title it repair. I don't think it's a renovation. Um, from the standpoint of the the building will be the building. I mean, it is this, you know, in terms of like where people eat, where people go to class, the size of the classrooms, those kind of things wouldn't change, but it would
035get a new HVAC system, windows, full roof, uh, plumbing and and improvements, electrical, um, lighting, ADA or handicap accessibility, and safety improvements. Um, pretty much most of these things were included when we talked about this in the spring last year and we talked about kind of the recommendations we did at that time. So, really just kind of that punch list. um in looking it looks like about $34 million as inflation has risen. And the other thing that we're starting to factor in and when we talked to some contractors um we would probably have to do most of this work um in short stints either over the summer um or in the evening and um uh evening and uh weekends. And so we do think that could have an impact on labor um as well. And
036that's because our kids still go to Cornerstone and we're not going to be able to move the kids out of Cornerstone. Uh so um there are no FC OFCC or state funds available for this project at this time. Your timeline uh we think that we could finish it in about two summers um if you used temporary modulars. So we basically if we moved in some um you know double wide types for um kind of to the north of the school for a a period of time so that we could kind of move a group of kids out while we did a portion of the building. you could in the end in essence two summers in the fact that you could use a little bit more of during school year time if you did um that
037process. If not, we probably think it would take about three summers at least to do that. Um just kind of chunking the different aspects uh of the project. Um we would have to fund this with uh you could fund it with remember um I know the board remembers but public as well. We we do have money in the bank right now. Now, obviously that would that impacts our five-year forecast, but we did move um $23 million to an 070 account at the time when we thought that the state was going to make some cash balance changes. Um and so that that 23 million in these options could be used, could be put back into the general fund or could be a combination, right? That's kind of probably not the first step in the decision-making pro
038process. Um, so we could do operating funds. So we have uh I'm going to talk a lot about I'm going to use cops as an uh option or an example tonight. Uh cops means certificate of participation in schools. What it really means to all of you is a loan, right? It's a it's a it's a bond loan through a bank that would pay for basically give money upfront and then the district would pay a mortgage every year out of their operating funds for whatever you borrow from cops for whatever project you choose. That's what certificate of participation means. You could do a bond issue for this, which I estimate based on that price to be about 1.75 mills at this time. Um, if you used our own money, uh, all 23 million, we would probably
039be on the ballot for operating within two years because if you use your $23 million, it's going to move us to the to the point where we would need operating sooner for any of these plans, right? um our redistricting plan. We we if you remember from last uh spring, we had a redistricting plan that we talked about that kind of depended on the levy result. Uh really moving the kindergarten through second grades to Parkview, Melrose, and Keen. Um and then the third and fourth grade was going to go to Edgewood if we build a middle school. And if not, it was supposed to go to Cornerstone. Right? So, what I mean by this here is if we stay at Cornerstone, your redistricting plan is this way. Current redistricting plan would would happen next school year.
040Um 3K2's there and third and fourth grade at cornerstone. Your fifth through 12th grade would stay exactly the same as it is today. Okay. So, that's op option one or it's neighbor labeled number two, but really only because I'm reminding you of the previous option that failed. All right. You guys can stop me at any point or I'll just keep going through and we can talk about all the options at the end. Okay? However, whatever is most comfortable for you. Um, another option uh would be, and this would probably be the most financially conservative option. Um, I will say it's it's somewhat of a band-aid, um, from the standpoint it doesn't probably do a lot of real long-term solutions. Um, but it's the most affordable. So, it is fair to at least put that as
041a consideration. Um this would be just to do some permanent improvements. Um really I would say the the most essential only. Um if you remember in 2017 the district did a 5-year PI levy um to to do some improvements at the high school and then it didn't renew. It was a five-year um [clears throat] uh process. That's kind of what I would envision here. Uh basically, you know, using about $10 million to do some necessary repairs. uh at about two million a year, you could do a two- mill levy for five years to do that. Or you could use 10 million of your general fund, right? Or a combination. And then again, your impact when your next levy is really would depend on how much of that general fund that you used. If you didn't
042use your PI, you probably are in 28. I I I guess as a reminder, if I think I may have said this, but just if we put our $23 million back into operating and didn't have any facility issues, it would probably be 2029, maybe 2030 that we would need to consider an operating levy, right? So, anything that you see lower than that is because you're using some amount of general fund, right? Um if you did this plan again because cornerstone would be in use in this plan. Cornerstone becomes the third and fourth grade and the K2s are you know at Parkview Melrose and Keen as uh discussed in the previous plan. >> Yes, Joy. >> I'm going to make sure just to clarify you made the comment um if we used no money at all
043from our general fund we wouldn't be looking at an operating levy 2930. >> Yes. That means um all that means whether we do cops, whether we do a bond, whether >> um I just want to make sure and good question. If you do a long-term cops as you'll see in it would depend like cops would impact that. >> So that might be one year earlier depending >> correct. It kind of depends on how much you borrow. It's the same. I always kind of say it's like going buy a house or buy a car, right? The more that you put down, the less you have in payment, but then the less cash you have on hand. I mean, there's pros and cons to every situation. >> Indeed. Thank you. Yep. Thank you. >> Okay, so again,
044option one there, cornerstone repair. Option two, just more like light repairs at each building. Um, option three kind of total flip would be the most expensive plan, um, that I'm presenting tonight, and that would be a new K5 elementary. Um, uh, we estimate that to be about $85 million. And I do want to say in in a lot of these that I put estimate and that's because there is a there will be a lot of next step work um depending on the feedback that you guys give me um on you know narrowing down these costs you know to create a um to create even a more specific the architects are pretty good at it but I I did put estimate on purpose here is right now I'm just trying to present the options we can
045go much more granular when needed. So this would this building could go on either side. Probably would need to go where the middle school is going to go on the north side of Oldman just because it would house six grades. So it would be a very large building. Um you know we had talked about long-term in additional phases years and years down the road um that maybe an elementary would be appropriate on the south side of Oldman there on the Keem fields. So you could explore that. But again, I'm not sure if you know with six grades, it's going to be a pretty significant uh sized building. That would be in uh today about a $4.6 million prop mill not million dollar mill property tax. You also I'm I'm sharing for the first time. We've
046never really talked about an an income tax. Um an earned income tax specifically is only for people that are still earning. So, it kind of protects senior citizens on a fixed income. Um, there are pros and cons to any income tax. One is the income will determine how the people's income and determine how much you get. So, it's more varied than a property tax where you can more greatly assume exactly what you're going to receive every year. The other thing, if you go with an earned income tax, you do put more burden on the income earners because in theory, you're trying to create the same amount of money, but you have less people as a part of it because those that are on a fixed income are not included in your collection. Right? Again, those
047would be the, you know, things to factor in, but I think it was important to at least mention um knowing that look, anything's on the table. And we also know there's some property tax reform conversations out there at the state level that we don't know exactly what might happen with um property taxes long term. >> So with this plan uh with this four this K5 elementary um that means that u [clears throat] we'd be vacating u four elementaryaries >> correct >> um which are all 60 years old or older. Right. >> Correct. >> Okay. >> Yes. I think that's important and I you know that I guess I I mean you know there are cons of this plan cost being one your neighborhood schools that we've talked about in the past your pro is efficiency
048um and even though we have probably talked the most in the past you know five years at my time here about cornerstone um the other three elementaryaries do need uh do need services and help right they're uh in the 60s or 50s um and The reason we don't talk about as much is because it's not as pressing and it's not as large, right? So, they're not >> there's cost savings in um a one site. >> There is for sure economies of scale hits here. You're you'd have staffing um you'd have staffing savings, you would have energy savings, uh transportation savings. Yeah. >> Um in in a K5 in the long run, it does have a lot of financial legs to it. It is just a It is just again the most expensive upfront cost that
049we're showing. >> Right. Right. Yeah. Right. Right. What was the cost of the >> This is around This one here is around 85. >> The next building I'm going to show you is >> what was the cost of the middle school concept that we had last >> 67. Okay. >> Yeah. Um middle The reason I as as you'll see why am I showing you options that are not the middle school? Again, I mean I'm not against the middle school. I thought that was a, you know, a good a good thing to consider and we liked it right there on the high school campus. In terms of now that we have to continue to think about what's best here and with financial restraints, a middle school costs more money per grade than the others because a
050middle school needs larger spaces, larger performing arts space, larger gym space, larger cafeteria. Um, and so when I show you these options in terms of what you're getting per grade, you're paying less per grade in these options. So that's why I considered those. >> Okay. >> In terms of funding for this, um you could use some of our general fund dollars. Again, it's not going to pay for all of it, but if you did, you could kind of thinking about reducing or doing your down payment. If you do that, um it would reduce your loan or levy request. Um uh I I I think here it's not 100%. I think we could definitely evaluate possibilities. Um, but the K5 would at least probably have more likelihood to need to consider a levy than the other
051options. All the options could consider a levy or the options could not consider a levy. I think we but I'm just saying this one being the most ex expensive would be something we'd have to explore. Redistricting, there would be no redistricting. everybody would go to the same the same site in grades K through five if you did this building a three through five um which is basically three grades just like a six through eight just looking at it instead of being a um three grade building that's again middle school a little more expensive um looking here this you could build on the south side of Oldman for sure because it's only three grades or you could build But um you could build in the north side. I would envision probably if you did just an
052intermediate and and in our in our uh early planning, we would probably think about doing that um right next to uh Kir and Dean Davis. Uh it's a $47 million uh estimate. It does I didn't say this on the K5 that would be important as well. Both both of these options would qualify for state uh contribution at the 31%. Um, and so we would, you know, it at 85 million it's probably 73 to 75 million total. At 47 million, it's probably 40 million for us after the co-unding. >> So, how much land do we own south of Oldman? >> Um, probably total if you include Keen as well, probably at least 30 acres. We own everything all the way back to the line of trees by the car streets. um all the way over including
053the field that uh from part of the old book uh Bukhold's farm uh to Oak Hill we own the ravine that was all part of the land given to us by uh the Noble Foundation a few years ago. >> Okay. Um so you know timeline on this again I think depends uh a little bit on any of these depends on well when the decisions made and then whether or not uh where the money's coming from right so for example if we made a decision to do something without a levy then you're you're sooner because you're not waiting for the determinated outcome right if it's a levy you're waiting until that um in general a new building is going to take you between uh probably I would say to be safe three years. I think sometimes
054you can beat that but it's going to probably take you three years to build a new building regardless of the scope that you would build. Okay. Just like it would take you know probably three years unless you chose the modular option to repair cornerstone. Okay. Um, and dur I will say for any of the plans uh that required like that if our redistricting plan changed because of the building plan, we would not redistrict until new the buildings were changed. We're not going to move kits twice, right? So, we'll only do the move if we're going to permanently stay in our current structure. Um, at least that would be my recommendation to you. U funding for this, you can see a little under two mills for a property. Um, you also could do a combo of
055earned income tax and property. Why did I show you that instead of just earned income tax, you only can do uh uh 0.25% uh increments. So, um, if I gave you a 0.5, we'd have more money than we asked for, right? So, to make it exact, which you could consider that, but just to make it exact, that's why I put it on there. Or I do think that you could pay for this building with a general fund using our 23 million and a cops loan uh which would be for a little under 20 million. I'm going to show you the cops loans rates and kind of the yearly uh figures on those on one of my last slides. And again, so your timing of future levies would continue to be dependent upon whether or not
056you would be using um you know district current funds for that. So, you know, I mean, you could even do a combo. You could go out for a levy and do a cops loan in that and not use general fund. I mean, there's all kinds of different, you know, I really my my thought for you guys is, you know, funding and financing is an important part of any of these decisions. Um I don't think I think the first step is just kind of you know feedback on on where we want to maybe go based on what do we want to explore more in terms of these options and we can come back and give you a lot more details of financials right >> on the real quick on the 2029 operating levy required if no
057general funds dollars used that's assuming all of it paid for with the cop's loan is that wording correctly >> that would be assuming that we did a levy if you did a cop's loan you might be 28 because you'd start paying >> yes >> your mortgage right uh it'd be late 28 early 29 >> and again redistricting as a reminder your K2s would be what it was planned in the 6 through8s um Edgewood would stay a middle school it would just be six through eight as as as you as you notice a lot of these plans at least the new building plans do try to accommodate the eighth grade in a middle school and the nth grade 9th through 12th grade at the high school which was some feedback we got and no immediate change
058would happen in this plan. Um implementation would occur once a new building is built. Okay. The last option I guess maybe it's the most inexpensive but it's you know maybe a little more the other inexpensive one is just kind of some repairs but it's is to um move to modulars or double wide type trailers. Um if we did that, we would you would move out a cornerstone um and you would put 10 to 12 um classrooms. So basically each double wide is two classrooms. Um they can put them together like in a like in one package. So it's not like you have like two two two. It can be one uh together. I'll show you that on the next page. Cost of that is $78 million. Um I would if we went this direction uh
059it would take about one year from implementation. Uh so for example if this was done um at you know if this was decided this spring it would be another year before we actually moved in is one there's planning um there's a lot of kids movement and staff and also you still have to hook up water and electric and other things but it's obviously faster than a new build because it's prefab right. Um, I would not recommend paying for this with anything but our own money. Uh, so you wouldn't borrow or [clears throat] ask for that. Um, so it would impact the general fund a little bit. Not as much as the other plans, but it would. Um, we would what would happen is those other three elementaryaries would become K4s. Um, and the cornerstone students
060would just be evenly distributed among those. So, I mean, we could look at other ways to distribute, but the most simple way would just be that the cornerstone students are uh evenly distributed to then make three K4s instead of four K4s. Your 512 stays exactly the way it is. If you went in this realm, you [clears throat and cough] >> do you lease those or buy those? >> You can do either one. Um, >> what about the one at King? What did >> we bought that one? Right. Overall, most of the time, it makes more sense to purchase these if you're going to use them for anything of an extended period of time. If we use them at Cornerstone while we were building or renovating there, I would recommend at that place, I would recommend
061lease, but I would not recommend lease here. >> We know um I don't mean to ask too many questions, but on those modulars, [clears throat] do we know what's the longevity? I mean taking Melrose modular which is here now out of the picture uh like what's the longevity on >> I mean I think I think you can use them for 10 15 years without without I mean you know uh they're they're not a 30 40 year old building for sure um but they are made with you know decent construction I mean our anticipation when we built put the one at Keen it was not something we were thinking would be we would use it until we didn't need to use it now a good [clears throat] example Melrose is probably not a great example we're
062not ever moving I mean that one that one's right but u yeah um there are you know in areas of the country where growth is exponential and they can't build as fast as schools and areas like the southwest and things are pretty common. Um you know I don't know that they would even say it's ideal in those situations but it's more common than we see in northeast Ohio just to show you. Um, so that's the end of the plans, but I want to show you a couple other things of factors and then I'll definitely take your questions. Um, so what I mean by modulars is what it would look like is really it, if you look, it's it's there at the top left. Um, it's, you know, five or six classrooms. The there is a
063restroom in it. Um, and then, um, obviously, so they're they're coming in and out of one door. um there pro there is more than one level area of egress but most of the kids are going to come in from one place and then leave at the same one. Um that's that's kind of what that would look like. So you can do it where you just put double wide double wide double wide but it's less cost efficient and I think we would want to make it if we were going to go this route which you know I don't know that we would want to but uh if we if we did you would definitely want to you know put I think as many kids in there together like a like a school as possible. We did
064do well my my uh instruction and uh special education team did a great job of at least figuring out like would we be able to fit the other large spaces would that would they be able to hold our kids like you know could Keen have gym and and lunch with those with all of those uh you know additional kids because they'd each be getting a little over 125 30 kids. We can do that. Uh challenging but we can we can do that with our current space. So I think a couple other factors um before I give you time for some questions that factor into a lot of these things to think about. Um so remember we are going to get co-unding from the OFCC. Um if we build right however our current OFCC plan uh
065indicates that we're going to build a six through eight middle school first. Right. Well, unless you go with the plan that, you know, we failed before and we we choose that and in some way pay for it and have it, we're going to have to change our master plan. Okay. Um to a different segment, right? Um that is not hard. Um but it is important that you know that because it does take time because there is a time clock on the OFCC, right? So the OFC time clock is November of 26 when we received that certification which we applied for well before the bond failed but it got approved in July. We have 16 months from that time to use our money or we become a lapse district. Um it is possible for laps districts
066to get back in line and get money but it takes a couple of years and it would delay our co-unding option. So, I think that's important when I say OFC master plan change. Um, it's really that we really have to November to change that. And I think really because of the timing it takes because it's kind of like a board, right? We have to submit it, then they have to approve it, send it back to us. Um, we really probably have time for one master plan change. So, we can't try like multiple different things here. Like, oh, let's try the K5 and then if that doesn't work, we'll try, you know, this or that. Like, we'll probably have one master plan change during that time. Okay. Is there some scope around the the amount of
067change that can be made for it to still be valid if that question makes sense? >> So, as long as it fits within remember they're going to try to make you as efficient as possible and like that's why there's so many K12 campuses, right? Um and so it just it it's no, but they're how that 31% of actually translate into into real dollars. the more efficient you make it, the more likely you're going to see closer to a 31%. You know, if we like if you built um I don't have this option up here because I don't think we would if we built a seven eth like a junior high, seventh and eighth grade junior high um we wouldn't get a lot of co-unding for that. We'd get some, right? But that's not an efficient
068model from the state of Ohio um with kind of the needs that we're talking about because remember the OFCC plan actually only has one of our buildings staying if they because they look at this from like a 30-year plus perspective. You know, the high school is the only building that they didn't say makes more sense to rebuild versus renovate, right? Again, not that we would be doing all of that right now, but you know, from that was their perspective. So with that point, is there a big difference in the K3 versus K through five from their co-unding perspective? >> Exactly. >> We would anticipate we again we have we have to resubmit for them to dive all into that and I haven't done that because again I think we have time for one change. Um
069but the K5 will be looked at more favorably from an efficient standpoint from the state. Again long run it is the most efficient cheap option. It's just the most expensive upfront, right? And then there are some other act, you know, factors to think about like neighborhoods and things like that. But from a cost standpoint, that's really your issue there. >> So like on the 35 uh with to accept the off I don't know OFCC or whatever it is changes, but on that my experience with that is if they were to help you know to accept that and fund that, do they micromanage the other spaces in your building buildings? No, just the one that they're building at the time. >> Now, they do factor in your space when they tell you. Yes, they factor that
070in and when they tell you like whether like so for example, if we had all new buildings right now, they wouldn't give us money because they would say you don't need new space, right? Or if we had another building out there, they would they might say that you need to rebuild or renovate, but they wouldn't say you're going to run out of space, right? So, they do factor in your other space, but they don't get in the weeds of what's happening in those spaces. They do get in the weeds of what happens in the building that they're co-unding, right? I mean, there's, you know, that's that's just part of it, but I I think I couldn't I couldn't recommend not using their money if we were going to. >> Is that involvement pretty specific to
071room sizes, cafeteria sizes? >> There is a there is a framework that you have to do. That's OFCC. You can go beyond it. um you can't go less than that right so for example they have a gym size that you have to do you can do bigger than that but you can't do smaller right there is a certain level of HVAC efficiency you have to use you could do better than that you would just pay the whole percentage yourself not get the co co-unded that's what local that's what LFI is locally funded initiative right so for example Triway is a great example of this right they have a co-unded building K12 they definitely liked that like the state liked that that beautiful performing arts center they have though they got no money for that right
072that was paid for all by triway which is fine they decided to do that but that's not part of a you know a requirement of a OFCC building so that's one thing I think is important on a timeline another timeline is a bond right so I'm not saying that any of these decisions have to go out for a bond but I think you do need to understand um the timeline of a bond if you would so choose. So I'm gonna actually move to the next slide because all of these things come up on the next one. So for example, if you chose May, and I'll tell you both. I'll tell you why November's to think about as well. If you chose May, um, you have to have all there's two, no matter what, no matter
073whether you're asking for $10 or 10, you know, hundred million dollars, you have to have two resolutions passed that are kind of formally set in a specific way to get on the ballot. They have to be at two different meetings and the second one has to be done, what is it, 98 days, Amy, from I think 98 days from election day, right? So, if you did a May ballot, you would have to do a resolution in December and a second one in January, and that would have to be submitted to the board of elections by January 27th. Okay? If you did a November, okay, it's more like July and August. Now, we can do either. I do think but I do want you to know that the only reason I put May and I I
074mean I again I don't even know if we're going to go out for something. But I think the reason I factored this in for you is that if you go out in November and pass, well that's fine. But if you go out in November and fail, you would not have time to gather your finances and still ensure co-unding. If you go out in May and failed, you would you wouldn't have time to change your plan, right? So, like for example, if you said, "We're going to build a 345, right?" And it failed and you chose to do it anyway, which again, I don't know that we would do any of these things. I'm just trying to make sure you understand the decisions you're making in the timeline. um you would be able to probably go
075and get your bank financing and things like that before the November deadline. You would not be able to do that if you waited till November, right? Um so I just think that's important to know. Um you know, obviously regardless of what decision you make now, again, if you don't go out for a levy, this timeline becomes a little easier, right? If you if you're not whatever you decide to do, if you're going to do an option that doesn't even worry about co-unding from the state or if you're going to do an option but you know you don't need a bond to do it, you have more flexibility. Your least flexible timeline is if you are going to try to build a building with a levy and get it figured out by November. Does that make
076sense? Okay. to help you understand the cop's repayment option. Again, this is definitely an estimate as these things change literally every day. Um, but just as a kind of safe um amount because I I think you know the thing that I I definitely was like, well, what does a payment look like when you start borrowing this kind of money? Um, assuming a 30-year interest rate um basically. And so, just so we kind of understand what COPS is, it's a bond. Like when you pass a bond, the only difference between a bond and cops is in a bond the taxpayers are paying it through the approved funds, right? It's technically still a loan that investors get and you know and based on the you know the market rate where cops is the district is just taking
077that with current funds, right? So, but you can see there like from a 10 million on a 30-year is about $650,000 of annual payment all the way up to 80 million which is over five million um per um you know per year. So, what that really means is guys is whatever if you did any kind of cops loan that's what you're impacting the general fund by every year right for a long time. Is there a way to understand without putting anyone on the spot in any way and I mean that very sincerely understand like what what kind of percentage is 5.2 of the like this is a payment if we go cops >> and I have other questions but just for this slide if we go cops we're paying is there a way to understand
078what size of a payment 5.2 2 mill is out of our budget every month year. >> $60 million budget. >> It' be about 10%. >> Five. Thank you. >> Would it? Yeah. Thank you. >> A little under 10%. About 8%. >> So 8% >> Yeah. >> is fair. >> That's on a current $60 million budget, which does increase every year typically because of inflation. >> Understood. So So just to clarify, if we would take an $80 million loan out, we would be paying 8% of our operating fund >> annually for 30 years. Thank you. Just want to make sure I understood that. >> I mean, now just like your own house, you can make more payments than that and go faster, right? >> Oh, of course. Yes. Yes. I'm just trying to understand what you're
079doing for a long time that that >> Right. So, what kind of a hit that is to >> correct >> indeed. >> Yes. So, that's all, you know, that's all a factor here as you kind of start thinking about, you know, those things. I am almost done and then I'll answer more questions here. I have not talked about the preschool and I think it's important that I do share with you the uh the preschool um where it would go. Um if the new if no new building is built, preschool is going to stay at Cornerstone, right? If we stay at Cornerstone, preschool will stay as cornerstone. Uh the preschool area is more is more newly renovated than the rest of the building. And so that would be where we'll get we'll stay. If modulars are
080used, uh, initially we would keep the preschool at Cornerstone, um, until we found a more appropriate long-term location, which, um, could could be, um, you know, modulars themselves, could be an add-on to one of our elementarymentaries, or even more outside the box, could be, you know, um, like renovating a building like Dean Davis or something like that, which again, we have not done a lot of exploration in, but, you know, those are the kind of things that you could put on the table, right? Um but again, initially it would stay at Cornerstone. If a new school was built, uh preschool's location would still be determined because I think it really depends on what building you build too, right? Um a little bit. Uh you know, if you build a K5, you know, um I I
081think possibly in my head, and this is way far down the road, but I think Keen would maybe be an appropriate place for possibly the preschool. Uh Keen is definitely the newest and best in shape of those three elementaryaries. it would still need some renovation work. Um, you know, if you were using Keen, um, you know, we'd have to continue to do some more investigation of like if you're using those three elementaryaries where we would put preschool. So, that's kind of the the gist and and and I will tell you there are other options, right? I mean, we could we could I could give you another 10, right? I mean, it would just take some time, right? But these were ones that I felt were, you know, appropriate from the standpoint of the levy failure
082and interest. Um, and also maybe kind of looking in a different lens on a building project than what we had kind of been focusing on um, you know, the last few years with um, you know, with [clears throat] our levy ask. >> Yeah. Joy, >> just being very black and white and just trying to understand So in any building plan, whether it was the six to eight, the K through five, or the 3 to five, we could self-fund. We >> could, >> but then we would pay those. Go ahead. Yes, please. >> Good question. We could definitely self-fund the 35. I don't know if we could plus caps. >> Yes. And all of those nothing is the only thing that would be truly self-unds. Indeed. >> And we could selfund like basic permanent improvements. >>
083So for 68 K535, we could self-fund plus cops. >> Yes. >> And I I don't mean to be stupid, but then we are paying the entire bill. >> Correct. >> For the deal of not having a levy >> if you don't go out. >> And so like we're saying, okay, we won't have a levy because nobody likes levies. So in we're going to pay more money ultimately to just not have a levy because we're paying the whole thing and we're losing our percentage of funding from OFCC. Is that silly of me to ask that way? >> You're paying your interest. Now technically a bond that's passed also still has interest because in the end the same process happens. >> Well, okay then. So what is the difference between Yes. >> I want to add one
084thing. Joy, you would still get the OFCC funding if you did the cops loan. >> So >> that's what I'm asking. Oh, I'm sorry. Yes. >> No, no, no, no. I often am not clear. The state of Ohio does not care how you are financing your money. They just want to make they they're they need to know that you have your money. So, they're either going to need to see evidence of a levy passed or evidence of an approved loan through a financial institution. >> Thank you so much. >> Sorry, Joy. I didn't >> No, that's my ear. Yeah. Thank you. Thank you. >> So, this [clears throat] um >> Thank you. >> Cornerstone conversation has been going on for a while. long time. Long long time. Um 34 years ago, Board of Education decided
085that that building wasn't good for kids. So then they decided to build the new high school, which is 30 years old. It's not new anymore. At that point, Cornerstone Elementary was going to be raised. There was an injunction filed. They kept it. They closed other buildings, Leighton Bell Avenue, um, um, Grant Street School, which they repurposed into the opportunity school because that was one of the newer parts that was still left down there. So, I mean, that's a long time ago. When I was in high school, when the mayor and I were in high school, uh, we were close friends with the superintendent at that time, Dave Wthbone. Part of Dave's task given to him by the board of education was to go find land to build a new high school. I know the area
086out south of town where Aldi's and Circle K, they looked at that land and they had an option to buy. I mean that's a long long time ago and um then the whole thing became available. So then obviously they did that. But um I mean there was a plan not to have cornerstone. Now, the most iconic building in Worcester is Cornerstone Elementary. Worester High School. To me, it's Worcester High School. Um, I mean, that's part of our vision of our town. I mean, that's what people see and how beautiful that is. Um, do you think if we were to vacate there, there might be interest in another entity um taking part in that building? I I I do, Rick. Uh I mean, obviously I can't guarantee, right? Um but we have had talks with investment
087groups um that have said that they would have interest in the building. Um I actually think that it would be, this is just in my opinion, it would be easier to work through the potential of saving the building um once we're not in it. Um, you know, I ran into probably the best example I can give was a uh real estate firm that was using architect Soulhellers Day out of Canton, but they were actually a real estate firm from uh the Philadelphia area um that are currently renovating an old uh school building in Willoughby and they came and toured the building and they were very interested in the building. They thought because of what you just said, it's iconic. There's a lot of charm and um you know, but we really couldn't go a lot
088farther um in conversation is there's 400 kids that go to school there every day, right? Um and you know, to to start doing the next level of due diligence and things like that, I think would be hard um when there's a whatif for them, right? So, but yes, I have had some conversations with some people and um that I think would would want to continue to explore conversation. >> So, when we get to the high school into the junior high or middle school, whatever we call it. Um [clears throat] then I mean those are areas where we kind of balance the socioecon socioeconomic part of the community uh poverty, race. So, we would have that currently in grades Was it grade four? No, five. Five through 12. >> Yes. Currently in five through 12. >>
089So if you add three to five, then you'd have you'd add that group to start equitable >> uh group. >> Yeah. >> So I mean those are things to consider. >> Yeah. As our current our current uh you know neighborhood school boundaries are not socioeconomically equal. Um right by any means. >> Nice when that grade band is starting at grade five right now. >> Yeah. Grade five is when we all of Worcester comes together. >> Great band. >> Um that's kind of important. >> If you >> any of the plans that I have here other than the modulars, >> um all of the plans move it to third grade, right? Because cornerstone, the repairs, the new building, >> the K5 obviously starts it >> right away. Third grade was determined, if I recall, to be
090also educationally desirable due to like the needs of the third grade reading guarantee and other things where we kind of like start utilizing resources in a better way at a kind of a significant educational time. Is it is that a fair statement? >> Yeah, that was part of our thoughts on those those recommendations. >> Thank you. And I'm always going to take five steps back. Okay. I ran for the board because I really truly, like an old person, believe in the power of education. I guess maybe what it meant 50 years ago, which is kind of naive, but that's still what I think about. Education is vital. Regardless of the channel you take, there's many channels. There's dozens of channels now, which is awesome. But nonetheless, education is vital. And it impacts all of us.
091It impacts each individual student. Their life can be transformed. It impacts a family because a child can transform their parents' lives in ways and we could talk forever but I won't. And then a community benefits and I think we kind of know that when we look at data and I'll leave it there. Communities benefit with strong education and a well educated. So like I still believe in education. So that's where my comments are going to come from. So, we I voted in favor of the 68 plan because I did feel educationally as an educator that it had value. Um, I'm now going to say that like three things can be true at the same time. Cornerstone can be a beautiful building with a mind-boggling history and gorgeous nooks where I personally would love to sit
092with tea and read a book. Like, I think that is true. I think old buildings have charm and value. They do. They do. But it's not just about me or like what I want to where I want to sit with my tea. So I'm still going to go back to is cornerstone not just minimally viable but maximally effective as a school. I'm going to go back there because that's how I made the decision. I'm sorry this is long and I still feel the the issues that I observed when I visited Cornerstone many many times are kind of still there for me as an educator and the number one thing that I ranted about endlessly was transition time. It's just like never going to go away. So I'm bringing the conversation there because I think that's
093part of what you're asking. What what is the use and value and importance of cornerstone? >> And it has a lot of value. It has a lot of history. It has some interesting use. It has a lot of great things, but I I just don't for me still as an educator, I still wonder if there isn't a better learning environment for all students. Um, so I'm going to toss that out and say I'm still I still personally feel looking at another option has value. As wonderful as Cornerstone is and as historic as it is, I still question it as the best environment. Like I'll stop for a minute. I can say more. [snorts and laughter] >> You know, >> I'll stop for a minute >> along those lines. I struggle financially thinking through, you know,
094three grades in a uh three through five intermediate with OFCC funding, you're probably 40 million or a little under and a renovation of cornerstone equating to three grades is 34 million. You know, when we think about a five, $6 million difference in all likelihood and total cost for a north of 100y old building versus a new build, that's hard for me to stomach as well to go along with that. >> Well, for [clears throat] me, um Oh, are you saying something, Jody? >> Not yet. >> I will. I bet you will. >> Yeah, I'm ready. whatever >> I had. [laughter] >> I hate to dominate this conversation or you know >> I mean having worked here I know the funds you know taxpayer dollars and things that were that have been gone into cornerstone and
095some of the other older buildings. Um I experienced the same thing in a former job that I had where we had to do that and then obviously that changed and they built new buildings but that was a necessity. Um but um you know I just knowing that many years ago a good board of education always had those uh decided that that building wasn't going to be great for the learning environment for kids whether they're older or younger whatever. Um and they did something about it. You know they bought land they built a high school um and that worked out really really well. Um, everybody still thinks this place is new and it's 30 years old. Um, so, um, [clears throat] at some point I think we have to quit kicking the can down the road
096and make a decision whether it's board of education um, or whomever. And um, but I for one I only speak for myself, not for the rest of the board. So, do understand that um I would have a hard time voting on something that would um spend more money than Cornerstone. I do know that there's upkeep on buildings, but I feel like that is um not a good use of our hardworking community and it's getting more and more hardworking. Um poverty rate rising and stuff like that. We see that all the time, but I for one would have a hard time um approving um I mean I'll do what the board does, but um because I'm a team player, but I would have a hard time approving any kind of ex large expenditure at that building.
097So, you know, I don't know what the plan is here, but if you could work to come back to us at another time with more detail or other plans or whatever, I don't know. That's just me. So, at least you all know how I feel. >> Yep. Yeah. And I mean just along some of the lines that I mean Joy talked about I mean for me if I look at the options. So first of all thank you for putting these all together. I mean I just I feel like a couple of these are band-aids. Um and I just I do feel like we're at a point where we have five buildings that we need to be thinking about the future of and um you know doing um like the permanent improvement and repairs to three.
098I I I personally don't think that's the right approach. Um I I'm not a fan of the modular idea. I understand what we're trying to accomplish, but not a fan of our, you know, that um for our students. And again, you know, we talk about Cornerstone in the major repairs. Yes, we can we can invest [clears throat] the money and fix some of the some of the issues that that we have there. But I think what Joy was saying, I mean, we talked to the teachers there, and I'm not saying that I'm speaking for all teachers there, but dozens of teachers have said and talked about the implications on the education of of the kids in that building because of transit time, because of having to move out of rooms. And, you know, there there's
099just been a lot of discussion from the teachers and and to me, they're the experts. They're the ones in the building every single day. And so I trust their their judgment on what is best for our students. And so, you know, for me, I would like to, you know, to me what we did before should still be something we consider because I think that was a really good plan of having a six through eight behind this building. And then the other options I think are great as well. I I will tell you I struggle a little bit with a three through five just because that still leaves us with three aging elementaryaries um and Edgewood. So, I feel like that's a shortterm it's a good fix, but it's a short-term fix where we're going to
100have to come back and think of something else. So, those those are my thoughts, but I I also and I I have not been shy about saying this. I I would love for Cornerstone to continue to be a building in our community, but I do not think that it should be uh a school building anymore. And I think one thing I will say kind of as I talk about but I talked about it a lot more in our previous bond conversation but you know I think what kind of what you're trying to say Joy and Jod is I think two things that are a concern if you put a lot of money into Cornerstone is it still will be a 1920s high school. Um it will look newer but it will still be built and
101structured for students at that time at those ages. Um I also think that it's um you know there is would be some challenges of no matter how much you put into um older things. It's just the same as an old house, right? It it it's it's just not quite the same as as new. Now again, they built some really neat old structures and there is some strength to those too, but I think those would be um you know, a challenge that that we would you know I think that's kind of phrasing both when you think about long term >> uh as that's you know would be some of those concerns from that thing. Yep. Yeah. And of course, I mean, you know, people renovate old homes. I mean, that that happens all the time. And
102again, there's probably interest from, you know, somebody to maybe do that, but is that the right way for us to be spending taxpayer dollars? That's part of what we need to be considering. So, I'm always like more theoretical, so I'm sorry I do this, you know, like what is my job here on the board? Who is my audience, I guess you can say, right? So, am [clears throat] I here for the people that voted for me? Am I here for the teachers? Am I here for the kids? Like, I've thought a lot about that. Like, what is my job? What is the job of an elected official? Do I do I chase every carrot or do I do what I know is right? Like, this is important to me. So 16% of the people voted
103no for the last levy and 12% voted yes I believe which is if I'm close and if I'm wrong I would like to stand corrected but like in terms of transparency and integrity because I that matters to me personally so that's why I want to make these comments. [clears throat] 16% of people voted no and maybe for them this is a kind of a done deal like we said no we're done and I I completely respect that but like the problems are still here again so I kind of dove into who voted no and why [clears throat] literally talking to any human body that would talk back to me many people who grew up in Worcester all sorts of people I just don't know if all 16% voted no because they wanted to preserve cornerstone
104I think that A lot of people voted no for very different reasons. And the reason I'm saying that is [clears throat] we have to be creative about our plan going forward to honor the no vote. But then we had 12% of the people that voted yes who wanted a new school who wanted to invest in education. And then I guess according to that 12 what's that 28. So, a large percentage of people didn't vote and what they and it's not my job to tell people what they need, but nonetheless, 70% of the people didn't vote and some of those may be families with children and I don't know what they know because they didn't vote or want. So, why I'm saying this is I want to work through this in a way that's transparent and
105has integrity and I want to do the right thing. No one's ever going to get exactly what they want in this kind of circumstance. But that doesn't mean the board is doesn't have transparency or is not wanting to do the right thing. So [clears throat] that's why I'm stating these numbers and what I'm kind of thinking through and what I believe the obligation is. And for me, my obligation is to do what I think is right, but also what is balanced and fair for all people. So I'm coming back again. We don't know going forward what plan makes the most sense. We don't know if we're going to do a new plan. We don't know how we're going to fund a new plan. No decision is made now. But I'm reaffirming I feel [clears throat]
106it's time to not kick the can down the road and to really look at whether or not that's a good learning building. And so with integrity, with consideration both to people who voted yes and voted no. And for the many people who didn't vote and may have a stake in this, I I am firmly believe we have to move forward as difficult as it is. I'm owning my decision. I'm trying to acknowledge I recognize that there's a vast audience out there and that everyone can't be pleased but I strongly feel we have to look at something new whether it's a module whether it's a new building whether I don't know that because I kind of want to try to separate that out because I don't want people to feel any assumptions are made or any
107decisions are made because I haven't made a decision. I'm just trying to answer the question about the one building and should we move to the next step like I do that at work a lot step by step by step >> and that is a >> procedurally I can't get ahead of myself or I'm breaking the law. I'm just here now talking about cornerstone. I don't know what plan I like but I honestly and I really I love the nooks of cornerstone. I do respect it but I do I'm strongly saying that and I'm trying to bring out the point that I believe our board is trying to operate with integrity and to listen to all voices. Well, I I think and I mean I'll take more comments, but if I'm trying to summarize because I'm
108trying to think about what's this mean for us action steps, right? And as we continue to move forward, um what I think I'm hearing is um we obviously we don't know which plan we're choosing. Um but [cough and clears throat] it doesn't sound like the temporary band-aid is even getting any discussion. Um, modulars. I'm not shocked anyone doesn't want those. I don't want modulars, but we could do it. And I thought it was fair that people would at least know that because um, it is a solution. Not every solution is a good solution, right? Um, you know, you know, based on your feedback, I I I don't think continuing uh, you know, to spend a lot of time on the cornerstone conversation is appropriate. Um, as again really I go back to the original premise
109of when I started this meeting tonight is that it it is time. It is time. We have got to whatever decision we make, we've got to make those decisions. We've got to figure out how we're going to pay for them and we have got to address things, right? I mean, I'll use an example, right? The cornerstone bleachers, they don't work. If we're going to continue to use that building, we need to put new cornerstone bleachers in there, right? And if we're not, we need to know that and we need to have a plan of what we're doing instead. Right? It's those kind of things. We're to that point where I think we have to make those. So, if I'm hearing based on what I'm thinking I'll do based on your feedback this evening is at
110our next meeting, I'm going to I'm going to uh have a lot more financial information and implications on the 345 um the K5 and I can even try to do some of those on the previous six through eight again re from a 2025 fall lens which could still include a levy or a cops. You know, one of the thing that we never talked about until now was potentially thinking about doing a major project without voter approval, right? Not saying that we're going to do that, but at least it's now a part of that conversation. So, what I'll do, um, and again, if you have other things you would like me to do, please tell me and I'll do them. Um but I think what I will do for the December meeting um is I will
111won't be maybe as long a presentation as many slides but I'll take those 345 K5 and 68 options and I will come back with a little more detail on the the estimate cost probably won't change a lot until we get really into the nitty-gritty with architects which cost money. you're probably not and and overall those estimates if we did that we're talking about like a million to$2 million dollar swing one they're pretty good at making estimates right like so my point is if we figured out exactly what we wanted a 345 building to look like it could it could sway$1 to2 million it's not going to sway $10 million right what I want to spend more time on for you is the financial pieces of that right like so what I think I would really
112like you to be able to see is um more specific details of bond cost. I'll go into detail about what that would actually cost each homeowner as well. Um I can also go into um uh detail about cops loans and then what Amy Amy will be a big part of this. Um we will um show you how different choices impact the forecast, right? Because I think that's that's going to be really important, right? So whatever decision you make um you know so for example I think if you said I really like the K5 as we again there's pros to it but it's the most expensive it's going to it's going to be the it's going to show the forecast the worst right doesn't mean it's the wrong plan it's just it's going to be the
113most impactful in the forecast because it's the most expensive right and a three three through five paid for without our money to start in a loan is going to look the Right? But I think you need to see those things so that you can start to factor that in. Now, the only thing that I think I could use a little more guidance for now on this or I guess I'm maybe I'm just talking out loud to you is remember the bond timeline, right? That I said like so you don't have to make decisions in December for but you do if you're going out in May, right? So, you know, I I can work on a resolution for those. Not because I think you're going to choose it. I don't know. It kind of sounds like
114maybe we're leaning towards not doing that, but I don't want to not be prepared. And then through our discussion, you're like, actually, I want to do X and I want to ask people for it because again, I if you we could wait till November, but if you that OFCC money ticks, that's that's the problem. It's there's no the thing that guys I think about this stuff every day most of the day and there is no perfect solution as Joy said right there are pros and cons to every situation um and uh you know every scenario has things that seem make it seem interesting and also challenges so I don't think I really I'll think through that and I'll think about whether or not you know maybe as we're building as Amy and I are working
115on building some of those if something that we feel gives us clarity we can have it as availability and you know obviously we could choose to you know um because you could at the next meeting start to make actually like some voted recommendations based on those things um or not kind of kind of depends as well again this goes into why am I having this conversation with you now and not in January you know Bonnie and Clayton's opinion is going to be really important on these things right >> but I can't wait till then because there's a timeline that starts that if I wait till then I've already taken certain things off the table and that's not mayor. >> So, thanks. You did a great job. But I what I want the one thing I
116on that 35 um [clears throat] was there any kind of PI or permanent improvement dedication to those three elementary buildings which will still be in operation. >> There was not today. We um >> I'm just throwing that out there. Like I mentioned earlier, those are 60 plus years old. [clears throat] One of the things that Amy and I will talk about too as best we can for you is there will be cost savings for this as well, right? So like now it we won't have it all figured, but if we can if we can come back to you and say here's here's this K5 building and yeah, it costs this, but here is estimated reductions. So I mean, I'll use an example right now. If if we keep Park View, we're going to spend $2
117million there. Not this coming summer, but the next one at least, >> right? We got a whole electric pro project that we're going to have to do and a roof project, right? Like right away. Um, you know, and we've got windows in each of those buildings. If we're going to stay in those buildings, they need new HVAC. Okay? It's not does not make sense to long-term to use window air conditioners in those buildings, right? So, those are things that if we do keep those will be a part of the five-year budget excluding. So, like that's, you know, that's something to think in. Okay. If if a three through five cost you half of what a K5 does, it's not quite an apples to apples half because we will have other expenditures and maybe not some
118savings. Still doesn't mean that the right decision is the K5 over the 35. It just means that will be a part of that factor. Can you I know this is probably difficult, but I know a lot of the timeline stuff is was to be to be determined. Could you provide sort of your best estimates on what timelines look like with various options as well? Yes, I think in most >> and not today. I mean next. >> No, but I think to Good question. I think overall probably 202 um 8 um if we make a decision in early spring. If you wait until an election result um probably early 2029. So sometime it it takes again uh between two and three years to build a building uh in a perfect situation. Nobody. It takes by the
119time you get design done, it's 18 months and we wouldn't be done with design. And I mean, I can give you more details, but regardless of any of those plans, that's what that would be. >> Okay, guys. Well, thank you very much. >> Yeah, thank you. You >> Thank you. >> Thanks. Thanks. Thanks. >> Well, I made a mistake before because I had mentioned that we're moving on to 4.01, >> but that's actually uh public participation on agenda items. So I think we do have one >> Molly >> publicly did such a great job. [laughter] >> I'll tell you I'll take it. Hi U uh Ted Hill at 7:35. Um uh first I want to thank uh Superintendent Tutor and the administration preparing a broadly value that work for everyone. Um I have two points
120of comment. Uh the first >> uh even though I'm a fan recommended for servicing because method is um less reliable yeartoear with its um from I know that the shortfalls if they occurred could just be covered, >> but I think there's an optics uh point of view to consider. Um in particular, uh needing to cover a shortfall would lead to the public question of why the tax rate had not been set correctly, quote unquote, to avoid such a shortfall. And to avoid some potential public damage or damage to public trust in the future, I would suggest that earned income tax will be better used as a general funding mechanism rather than for servicing bonds. Um, second point of concern, um, I recognize that the option presented for going to the voters in May is simply
121the next available time and just sort of the, uh, example that was used on the slide. Um but the board can also go to voters in November and that wasn't visually depicted in the slide. Um this sort of implies to me an unnecessary um need to rush. Uh I would suggest that it would be inappropriate to take up any rel uh resolution on the future of the school district in December when there are two members that are going to be joining the board in u January. Uh, furthermore, levies levies set in the spring erode public trust. Voters look at November elections like they are for citizenship and for spring votes like they are for partisanship. Deciding our children's future has no place in the spring next to the partisanship. I would remind the board that
122there is no rush on this. In building terms, construction is measured in years. for bond repayment. It's measured in decades. Take the time. Do right by the voters. Go to them in November. Thank you. >> Thank you. >> Okay. We need a motion to approve the consent agenda for the treasurer. >> So moved. >> Second. [clears throat] >> Okay. Tonight I have the financial report for month end October 31st um 2025. Um so looking at revenue right now compared to our forecast um we are ahead [clears throat] almost $700,000. That's really attributed to our state revenue. When we look at unrestricted and restricted um [clears throat] some of that is our our um enrollment actually is flat from last year. We are predicting a little bit of a decline. So our uh unrestricted state revenue
123is a little bit higher and then our um restricted is as well. When we look at expenditures, we're actually favorable just by a little bit on in that regard. Salaries and benefits are over a little, you know, by 128,000. But in our purchase services, we tend to um predict a little bit higher on purchase services because um if you remember, that's where we pay for a lot of our kids that go out of district and we never really know um how many kids we're going to have in a year. So when you look at the um you know effect of that we're really trending favorable right now by about $700,000 um against the forecast um and I have started working on as you remember the forecast next one I'll be bringing in February because they've
124changed the timeline on that. So I'll be able to present that to you at the February um board meeting. As far as donations tonight, um we have donations to the girls boys basketball [cough] um [clears throat] teams, several donations to General's Closet and then donation to the middle school PBIS and then um the uh Worcester women's service club donated um money towards hats, gloves, and reusable bottles for students. Um so that is my consent agenda. >> Any Additions requ corrections. Okay. [clears throat] >> Call the role. >> Uh Goodwrite, >> yes. >> Starcher, >> yes. >> Austin, >> yes. >> Kusma. Klein hands. >> Yes. >> Okay. We'll move on to uh motion to approve the consent agenda for the superintendent. >> So moved. >> Second. >> All right. Uh thank you guys. It is
125a lengthy consent agenda, but most of it is um policy first and second reads, but I'll go through things here a little bit. Um, actually at this time of year, pretty happy not to have any certified resignations there. We'll take that. A couple uh substitutes and a long-term substitute. Uh, really excited about Zoe taking that spot. We really needed that. And Zoe is actually a Worcester grad that is graduating from Balden Wallace uh here um in about a week. So, we're excited for her to be able to take that. On the classified side, no resignations as well. Always a good month when that happens. And then you'll see some um positions there that were hired, mostly substitutes. The one um sorry [clears throat] I'm get a little closer here. Anna uh Similey, she is the
126new payroll person. Ela Bateson retired. She retired a few months ago. She's still working, but she put her notice in. And so we have a little cross trainin time just a couple weeks, but Anna, who already has experience in payroll, will be coming uh to us uh for that. The keyub key club bus agreement is actually just to uh ensure that both us and the career center have the right insurance language. Uh we uh share a bus with the career center for kids to go um on trips and things like that. And so this makes that mutual when their key club drives or our key club drives or we're covered in that uh softball overnight trip. Um any overnight trips we always bring to you. This time this will be at to New Hop uh
127which we have other teams go to as well. It's a great team bonding experience uh for them. The wheelchair basketballouou is actually just a continuation. Um uh this did not get in the negotiated agreement, not actually because either side I think was open to it. Uh to be honest, uh I forgot to to take it to negotiations to put it put it in. We actually had theou um a few uh we've had it a few the the few past few years um uh because we've been trying to build our program. When I say builder, we have a great program, but the uh followways have always coached and we've loved we want to get that to where they they really want to move on and continue to grow the sport. And if uh you know, and
128so we need to continue in our program and so this is just to memorialize so we can continue that for the next three years until uh we will negotiate and put it in the contract. Um I have uh strategic planning. A few months ago, I did our strategic plan presentation here on our uh finalizing our current strategic plan. Um, and this is a proposal to engage with the impact group uh who helped us last time to do strategic planning again. Um, I feel very strongly about strategic planning. I think it is um something that really creates the compass of your district and helps in your decision- making. Um, and uh, impact group did a great job helping us last time. They lead the focus groups. It it really provides a little bit more organic conversation.
129If I'm leading the focus group, sometimes the teachers might not want to share exactly the things that they should and and and I want them to share as comfortably as they will when somebody else is leading a focus group. And that's same for any group. I'm just using them as an example. Um, we had to make one revision on the school calendar next year. uh we just the the parent teacher conference dates in February were not aligned to the week of par uh to the uh to the flex day and so that was actually just an admission. It was not actually a change. We just needed to put that on the calendar. Um we are going to get some free um AI um professional development uh through the ESC uh and so this is the
130agreement uh through that grant so that we can do that. Alex uh Gary is spearheading that. Um and then the Applewood agreement is for a student that um you know is under our responsibility that um requires their care and education. Uh lots of second readings. We kind of went over a lot of these um last month. Um they're they're primarily just uh you know kind of keeping us up to date with law with attendance changes um and academic changes. There also are some first reads on here. Um, also some of the things in the se um second read are like federal programs and how we um document our federal funds and and things like that. That's the Edgar um options. That's Amy's department that does that. Um we have some transportation things just related to
131an update in law and then also some technical corrections. Um uh just to um mainly because Mrs. Richard uh her name hasn't changed, but her uh title had changed a couple years ago and that needed to change on our on our board forms. So, that's a technical correction. So, even though it's nothing more than that, I still need to bring it to you. Um so, those are um >> tell us about them. We don't need to vote on those, right? >> They're just part of the consent. They are. Yeah. Um so, those are a bunch of first reads. And then at the the very end, I will say one other first read that we do have is a cash balance policy. Um, most districts in the state of Ohio have adopted one and it's being
132recommended by our auditors to do and it really it doesn't pigeon hole you exactly on what you decide to do when your cash balance gets to a certain level, but it provides and creates some parameters. Basically, it says after we have less than 90 days cash on hand, we should start to consider how we're going to either reduce or or get additional funds. Right? Cash on hand, remember, is think of it this way. So if you have a $60 million budget and you have $60 million in the bank, then you have 365 days of cash on hand, right? If you have $1 million in the budget on 60 million, you have five days of cash on hand, right? So 90 days is, you know, kind of an amount that's pretty common. And so that would
133be in first read. So some of these are second reads, second and final where they will become policy. Others are first reads that would come back to you next month. Another reason for the and I'm going to I'm not going to get this all right but there with some legislation that's out there there's a requirement that we there there potentially is a requirement that we will have a we have to have a strategic plan right along with this cash balance policy. >> You do well we do have to have a referring to go ahead. I was just going to say they're recommending really like that you're like you have a cash balance policy and it you know kind of aligns with your you have a strategic plan and a facilities plan and you kind of
134bring those all together and have them align. >> Yeah. And what's that for? That's is that the state requiring that or >> um No, I think it's just really with I think some of the funding things in place. >> Um you know that for instance if you have a cash balance policy knowing that if you like ours if you go over 50 days. We're not going to just sit on that money. We have a spending plan. So like either your strategic plan dictates that or your facility plan might dictate that. >> Okay. >> Um >> thanks for clarifying. So I I I think when when some of these things that are part of the you know tax reform and and maybe some of the power if you will that the budget commission could have if
135we have these things in place and we know they know we have a plan for the money >> they're not going to take away our tax dollars. >> Yeah. That's a great point. >> That that's what I thank you for clarification. I I think I think incorrectly, but there is a perception not just in like not Worcester, but just around the state that, you know, districts are hoarding money, right, which is obviously not the case. And so really [laughter] what he was talking about is is showing your purpose of the money in case those kind of changes, you know, occur to where maybe they do start to take some things, you know, away. And, you know, with property tax reform, which, you know, I do, you know, property taxes are high and I think there's
136some things that needs to be evaluated. Now, you know, it's kind of interesting. One of the things that, you know, we learn a lot about that is, you know, currently, right now, the average right now around the state is that the state is providing 32% of the cost to educate, right? Um, 20 years ago that was almost 50%. >> So, where's the extra money coming from? Well, it's coming from local it's coming from local revenues, right? Um, and so, you know, that's that's all part of the the challenge that they're going to have to continue to work out. >> Any other questions? Okay, good. Right. >> Yes. >> Starter. >> Yes. >> Austin, >> yes. >> Kosma, >> yes. >> Klein, >> yes. >> Okay. So, we are moving on to I see we have
137to move jump down to public participation on non-aggenda items. >> There I don't believe there are any. >> Molly >> on non not on non-aggenda. >> Okay. Okay. Um, comments questions. Yes, you're you're up, >> man. I I warned I warned Callum before we started. [laughter] I felt bad. I'm like, this has got a chance to really be a a long one. So, I He's a good patient guy. So, [laughter] >> thanks for hanging with us. Of >> course. >> So, yeah. Um, fall sports seasons have uh just concluded and winter sports are officially up and running. Uh, practices have started and programs and events are just around the corner. Um NHS NHS members are volunteering all over the community and will be ringing bells for the Salvation Army later this month. Um with Best
138Buddies. Best Buddies previously had a Friendsgiving event where students enjoyed pancakes, sausage, and good company. [cough] Um they gave they gave thanks to friendship and enjoyed one another. Best Buddies is also uh has an upcoming fundraiser this Sunday. It is a quarter auction and it will be held at First Presbyterian Church here in town. Um, General Leadership Council. The General's Leadership Council met on Wednesday the 19th and participated in leadership activities put on by uh our guest speakers Sarah and Ry Ryan Ozar, excuse me, uh, who are faculty members at the College of Worcester. Um, the GLC will be planning a group project to be completed prior to February when Worcester High School will host the OC leadership event um to present on what each school group has done this year for service projects. And
139uh we want to wish all winter athletes and coaches the best as their season kickoff. Um drama club Charlie Kirk fac or Charlie in the chocolate factory is now playing and they performed last weekend and their last chance to see it is this weekend Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Uh science club they just completed a leaf chro chromatography I think is how you pronounce it project at their meeting last week. They used every everyday household materials like rubbing alcohol and coffee filters to pull pigments out of leaves and they will be meeting they will their next meeting is in December. Um green club uh recently focused on educating their members about simple ways to live more sustainably in their everyday lives. During their last meeting, they discussed easy habits that [clears throat] can make a meaningful
140environmental impact and they are now working towards organizing a community park cleanup to continue supporting a cleaner a cleaner and lo clean cleaner local environment. Excuse me. NAACP has been has had a few meetings and they have formed a membership committee and are making preparations to host some events for recruitment as well as preparations for Black History Month celebrations. Um, for those interested, they meet before and after school on Tuesdays and have a general assembly general assembly meeting on the last Tuesday of the month in the public library. Student council is preparing some events for over the winter. They have started a chain of gratefulness for students to write something that they are thankful for and make a chain out of it. Um, they are thinking of plan they are thinking of plans for winter
141spirit week in the mini pep r pep rally section at rise day. They're going to work with officer Ael for the for the stuff the cruiser event. Freshmen are currently vetting for new representatives for their class. Juniors continue their fundraising for prom and other plings. Um, seniors are doing more events for their class and sophomores are preparing for winter formal. And that's all. >> Thank you, Ken. I appreciate it. Now, you didn't talk much about the lift up there, I don't think. Did you mention lift up? >> Because [laughter] >> not only that, but I think you were, you know, kind of a star of the show, >> right? >> I might have been. >> That was pretty fun, right? Yeah, it was very fun. >> Yeah, that was that was a that was a
142great thing that uh we do we do every couple years, right? I think. >> Yeah. >> So, awesome. >> Well, thank you for viewing. >> Um I don't have Is it out yet to where like everybody can see it? I've seen it, but it it's out. Okay. >> It's on social media. >> Yeah. Yeah. >> It was really great. >> Yeah. Super fun. >> Charlie and the Charlie I keep saying Charlie and the Charlie Factory. Charlie and the Chocolate Factory was really fantastic, too. Went last weekend. And I mean, not only the people on stage, but all those behind the set, the orchestra. It was well done. >> Yeah, it's incredible. >> And they were selling candy in the lobby, which I was really surprised by. Was a nice touch. [laughter] >> So, thank you.
143>> Okay. Um, future board meetings. Uh, anybody else have any comments? >> Okay. Um only thing I would um say just as a uh two uh well one correction one reminder the we are not actually it's not on here yet but we we are not I am not going to recommend an executive session tonight. The other is next month this is just a procedural thing. We have to pick a person to run the meeting the organizational meeting right um because we technically don't have a president um at the organizational meeting. So, that will be on the agenda for you guys to nominate and recommend someone to run the meeting. Um, and then we will have the organizational meeting. Uh, you know, obviously with Bonnie and Clayton there. >> I second that, Cody. I second that.
144>> Oh, yeah. I think historically, not that we're making a decision now, but I think historically we've just had the president continue that. >> There is, but there is Yes. But there's board action. >> Yes. We have to go through the formal steps to do that. Yeah. >> Yeah. Sorry about that, Rick. Yep. >> Okay. Uh, so Tuesday, December 16th, we have two meetings. A special meeting u at 3:30. I believe that's like the midpoint for uh administr superintendent and treasurer um evaluation. And then later that evening at um six o'clock, we have our regular uh board meeting. >> And you have work to do between >> correct now and then, don't. >> Yes, I do. Um and then um we need a motion to adjourn the meeting. >> So moved. >> Second. >> Okay.
145Good. Right. Yes. Starcher. Yes. Austin. Yes. >> KMA. Yes. >> Yes. >> Thank you everybody.