NLSD School Board Meeting - June 8, 2026

001I'd like to call Liberty to order at this time, please. And uh begin with a pledge of allegiance to the flag, which is up here in the corner. I pledge algiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands. One nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. >> Uh I would call your attention to the civility in the quorum at the start of the agenda. Uh please keep that in mind. At this time, may we have roll call, please? >> Miss Filby, >> here. >> Mr. Fedorcha >> here. >> Miss Husk here. Miss Culp >> here. >> Miss Snder >> here. >> Miss Thompson >> here. >> Mr. Weber >> here. >> Miss Williams >> here. >> Mr. Green >> here. >> We have

002a quorum. >> Thank you very much. >> Okay, gives up. Thank you. Okay, there's a lot of public comment here uh public here tonight. If you want to comment on an agenda item, please, please, please, there are sheets out of the hall. Please sign up, put your name on there, tell us what you would like to comment on. If you just want to make a general comment, you can comment at the end of the meeting. That's when we'll have just general public comment. Uh comment is restricted to five minutes uh per item. It's also a case of you need to be a resident, a student or an employee to address the board. Unless you leave some special invocation like you're uh an architect making a presentation that would be entirely different. Otherwise, you need to

003meet one of those three categories. Uh I apologize for our tardiness. Uh it says somewhere on here that we had a uh uh executive session. We did and it ran over. Uh we discussed uh personnel litigation safety report and I think that pretty much covers it. Okay. You've all received copies of regular schoolboard meeting held on May 11th. Is there a motion to approve? >> Motion. >> Second. We have a second. Thank you. Uh any discussion or questions? Hearing none. All those in favor signify by saying I. >> I. >> Oppos? No. And so ordered. Okay, special board report CLIU, Miss Susette. >> Thank you. Just a couple quick mo uh topics to talk about. Our meeting was held on May 20th. We do have a meeting coming up in June. Um couple things that

004we talked about at our main meeting. Um during uh the month of May, it was National Mental Health Month. Uh so we did events to support our students uh staff administration. um feeling that it's very important to make sure that mental health is front of mind for all of us as we continue to uh work our efforts and foster a culture of understanding and support. Um also coming up uh is our annual golf tournament which will be held June 16th out at Old Homestead. Um as we mentioned this does uh help facilitate some of our facility dogs uh Lassie, Bobby Ray, and Gemma. And uh we also do adaptive bikes for our students uh with a partnership with Variety Charity where um our students are fitted custom fitted with bicycles for those students who sometimes

005wouldn't have the ability normally to be able to ride a bike. Um so that's what those funds do go towards. Uh we did also have a review of the aspiring leaders program which is a year-long event that culminates with going to um out at to Harrisburg to go to the state uh legislators. So, uh that is an opportunity for uh our administration and those individuals looking to go into leadership roles within the educational facilities um to be uh awarded and go into that PIU aspiring leaders program. Uh as I mentioned, we do have a meeting in June. Other than that, no further comments. >> LCTI, Mr. Fedorcha. >> Okay. Uh I'm happy to say that all school districts in in our county and part of our LCTI uh approved the budget. So we have an

006LCTI budget. Our senior awards was May 28th at PPL center. It was well done and also had extreme great decorum from the audience. I will I will say considering we had 800 and some students walking across the stage. It moved quickly and it moved very smoothly. Uh we are in negotiations right now with our custodial and maintenance staff. We're hoping to be able to get that done before schools open and can avoid a strike, but we're we're still in negotiations right now. A reminder that on June 18th at 4M at LCTI will be the supply uh yeah the surplus surface supply sale. That's it. And uh we also elected Sarah Neoth from Salisbury. re-elected her as our treasurer, but we are still going through a number of staff changes even in the administration part right

007now. That's all I have, sir. >> Thank you very much, sir. Uh, anything legislatively? >> Uh, not tonight. >> Not tonight. Thank you very much. Uh, I don't have a report either tonight. We had a couple of retirees, hired some people. It was a pretty pretty calm meeting, so nothing to really get excited about. uh you've all received copies of all the committee reports and your meetings for the attachments. Now I would like if no one objects to move policy C uh on page five uh up to now which basically says we're going to swear to a new board member >> who also happened to be student high school >> student board member. >> Did I say student board? >> What did I say? >> Board member. I say student ah close enough student board

008member whatever. So I think attorney addict will do that. So >> but first we need to vote. >> Oh we need to vote on >> you need to vote on her first. Yes. >> Oh okay. >> I I second. >> So is there a motion to uh >> a motion and I'll second. >> That would be policy 6C. >> Yeah. Okay. I do remember voting on him before but okay. Very good. All those in favor of swearing in the people and accepting the student representatives, please signify by saying I. >> I. >> Post no. >> And so ordered. Now >> you move forward. >> So we're actually going to swear in Leah first. Easy right there. >> I do solemnly swear >> that I will support, obey, and defend >> that I will support, defy,

009and defend >> the Constitution of the United States >> and the Constitution of this Commonwealth >> and the Constitution of this Commonwealth >> and that I will discharge the duties of my office with fidelity >> that I will discharge the duties of my office with fidelity. >> Congratulations, Leah. Good morning. >> Thank you. You ready? >> I do solemnly swear >> that I will support support, obey, and defend >> that I will support, obey, and defend >> the Constitution of the United States >> and the Constitution of this Commonwealth >> and the Constitution of this Commonwealth >> and that I will discharge the duties of my office >> and I will discharge the duties of my office >> with fidelity. Congratulations. >> Try this again. Good evening board. I am excited to present the last

010board report of the year. To start, I want to congratulate the graduating senior class. Graduation occurred June 5th at 7 p.m. along with the day before being graduation practice. The weeks leading up to graduation were all about commemorating a memorable senior class. On May 27th, senior awards were given out. The parade of graduates where the seniors walked between the four campuses occurred June 3 and was led by the marching band. The class of 2026 advisers Mark Nikosia and Miss Lily are trying to bring back senior sunset. Senior sunset occurred on June 3rd where seniors could come together and watch the sunset. There was food as well as a blowup obstacle course. The advisers are working closely with the class of 2027 to try to make this a new senior tradition. LCTI also had their graduation

011on May 28th. Congratulations to all of those seniors. The Freddy Awards happened May May 21st where unfortunately our re or rendition of Anastasia the musical did not win. The student counselor helped out with freshman orientation on June 2nd. Incoming freshmen will able to see a little bit of what school will look like for them next year along with being able to ask some high schoolers questions that they may have about moving into the high school. Finals are underway at the high school. We wish every student luck on their exams with finals the last two days of school will be half days. Spring awards for sports occurred on May 18th where Kellen Bower and Tegan Sims won the all sports awards for their respective g for their respected sexes. Now for a quick sports recap. Softball

012unfortunately lost against Pine Grove but still got second in districts. They ended the season with a 10-7 record. Baseball lost against William Valley in the semi-finals in districts. They ended the season season with nine with a 9-9 record. Track had many athletes who made it to districts, leagues, and states. The athletes that made it to states are Zade C, Emma Hy, Natalie Moffet, Landon Clem, and Anna Triss. Congratulations to all of these amazing athletes and amazing things they did this year. Now, leaving the best for last, I'm happy to announce our brand new board representative, Leah Cutsel. She's an active member around the school, being a part of Patriot Club, SAD, cheer, track and field, and unified Special Olympics Bachi Both. She's looking forward to representing her fellow students and helping make a positive impact

013on her school. Thank you. I hope everyone has a fabulous summer. Do do you want to say anything, Leo, while you're here or No, >> I'm happy she's here. >> We're happy to have you, Leah. >> Thank you. >> May I May I just >> save something because I had it as part of my report, but I didn't do it because usually the student does it. But I do want to recognize that uh we have our CTO's are from the LCTI going to the national convention uh conferences or or or really skills Olympic parts. Uh but we do have two of our students from Northern Lehigh going to nationals and that was Savannah Hill and Mallalerie McIntyre. So I just wanted that for the record. Thank you sir. >> Thank you Gary. Okay, we got

014by that solicitor. Anything this evening? >> No report. Thank you. Uh, assistant superintendent report. Dr. Stelker. >> Thank you. I have nothing this evening, but we will have the end of the year local data report in August when we return. >> Okay. Dr. Link, superintendent. >> Mr. Green, are we going to do public comment after we give our reports? After I give my report? Um >> yes. >> Okay. All right. So this evening for my report I am happy to share that the past few weeks have been filled with end of year activities including field days, moving up ceremonies, signing days, spring concerts and award and scholarship ceremonies. Of special note, the inc in incredible generos generosity of the Northern Lehigh community sponsored $164,710 in scholarships for members of the senior class. We are deeply

015grateful for the continued support our students receive from the community. It goes a very long way in helping those students as they transition into higher education or into the workforce. Of course, this past Friday marked the commencement ceremony for our new newest group of alumni, the class of 2026. What began as a hot evening in the stadium ended with graduates tossing their caps into cooler skies. Congratulations to all of our graduates and best wishes as they begin the next chapter of their journeys. for all of our end ofear activities. Thank you to the staff, faculty, administration, families, and community members whose efforts made each event a success. I'm pleased to share that seven of the 110 students that recently took the ACT 35 civics knowledge exam earned perfect scores. Those students are Maya Dusa, Becca

016Fox, Becket Fox, Andrew Mory, Riley Pennock, Brena Muscar, Muscarella, Landon Ager, and Garrett Smooyer. Congratulations to each of these outstanding students on this impressive achievement. Next, it is my great honor to announce that for the second time this year, the Lehigh Valley Educators Credit Union has donated $10,000 to support our Backpack Buddies program. This program helps ensure that students have access to food and nutritional support when their families are experiencing or may be at risk of experiencing food insecurity. With this latest contribution, the credit union has donated a total of $20,000 to support Backpack Buddies during the 2526 school year and into the 2627 school year. We are incredibly grateful for the Lehigh Valley Educators Credit Union's generosity and commitment to supporting the well-being of our students and families. Additionally, last week, as a result

017of a grocery store gift card drive organized by Neutropoli Bank, the bank donated $500 in gift cards that can be distributed to students and families in need to help comat combat food insecurity. We're incredibly grateful to both of these local banking institutions for thinking of the Northern Lehigh community and the students we serve. Their generosity and commitment to supporting our families makes a meaningful difference in the lives of our students. Next, I would like to acknowledge the donation of a trumpet valued at approximately $700 to the Slington Elementary School Music Program. The instrument was generally generously donated by Miss Maryanne Mattola. The music department is grateful for this thoughtful contribution and for Miss Mola's support of our young musicians. Speaking of Miss Mattola, uh you'll notice that her name appears on this evening's agenda as

018she begins a well-earned retirement. I'd like to take a few moments to reflect on her outstanding career and the contributions she has made to the Northern Lehigh School District. Maryanne Madiola will be retiring after 40 years of dedicated service to the Northern Lehigh School District. Miss Mattola received her bachelor's degree from the College of Micordia and continued through her education by earning her mers. During her distinguished career at Northern Lehigh, she served in a variety of roles, including part-time and full-time art teacher, fine arts department chair, decorating club adviser, freshman class adviser, sophomore class adviser, junior class adviser, and senior class adviser, summer learning program instructor, yearbook club adviser, teacher of the gifted, and most recently um a member of the English language uh development department. As an educator, Miss Mattola inspired generations of students

019to develop a deep appreciation for the visual arts while nurturing their creativity and artistic talents. Her passion for teaching helped students build confidence, express themselves through art, and develop skills that extended far beyond the classroom. In her role as a English as a second language teacher, Miss Mattola made a profound impact on the lives of countless students and families. She worked tirelessly to help English language learners, many of whom arrived at Northern Lehigh as newcomers with little or no English proficiency, develop the language skills necessary to succeed academically and socially. Through her patience, compassion, and dedication, she helped students gain confidence in their ability to communicate, learn, and thrive in their new school community. Beyond her direct work with students, Miss Mattola served as a valuable resource and advocate for English language learners throughout the

020district. She collaborated closely with classroom teachers, providing guidance, instructional support, and strategies to help meet the unique needs of multilingual learners. Miss Mattola's commitment to education and her unwavering support of the students will leave a lasting legacy. She will be truly missed by the students, staff, and families of the Northern Lehigh School District. I believe Miss Mattola is here this evening. >> Here she hi. Hi Maryanne. She would like to make a comment. What's up? >> Uh Miss Maddie, I believe you would like to make a comment on your retirement. Is that accurate? >> Sure. >> Nervous. Mr. President, honorable school board members, Mr. Superintendent, Madame Assistant Superintendent, Administrative Staff, I'd like to say thank you for the opportunity to have worked at the Northern Lee High School District. Put my glasses on. I've worked

021in each of the four buildings in my 38.29 years of teaching and two years of substituting totaling over 40 years exclusively at Northern Lehigh. That 29 counts. I spent my career as an elementary art, middle school art, high school art teacher, as well as a K to2 English language teacher. It all was good. When I began my career, I was known as Miss Sab, shortly short for Miss Sabatini, the art teacher. After I married, I then became known as Miss Matt. Students, teachers, parents, and even administrators referred to me as Miss Matt, short for Miss Mattola. I've worked with many administrators throughout the years, each bringing with them a new initiative, ways to cost cut cost cut in the classroom yet still provide a quality education. It sometimes felt like I was trying to make

022lemonade out of a lemon. It wasn't always a smooth transition, but COVID was certainly a wake-up call to do whatever you had to do to make it work, and it was enjoyable. But you know, you learn to persevere, fish through what is being promoted, and find something good in that new expectation. There's always something to learn and share with others. You know, kids are funny. One day, I had a student come up to me and say, "Miss Matt, did you know there was a pencil in your hair?" And I looked at her and said, "Yes, I put that there." And she said, "I thought somebody threw it at you." You got to laugh at kids. My life in mis in my mission in life, as Maya Angelou put it, is not merely to survive, but

023to thrive and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style. I have enjoyed sharing my talents with the Northern Lehigh School District and community and have painted 26 murals uh for the district, all without any compensation. I supported the NLEA with the Santa Breakfast Advertisement Board, the Walnut Street Playground Association, Walnapport Stadium, Walnapport Canal Association, District Magistrate's Office, Theater Drapes, and others in the high school and Slington Elementary while working on 10 plays in their backgrounds, just to name a few. My greatest challenge was a 20 by 30 foot bulldog crouched in the grass in the football field's shed years ago. Perhaps you remember that. It was really good. My students helped me with that. Um, I have completed four murals at Slington Elementary in the last five years, and

024I have one yet to do before I walk away from teaching this year. My ESL degree afforded me to become known as the school mom. wiping tears with from newcomers, placing band-aids on skin knees at the Shine program program, and distributing free books and pencils I gathered for students who didn't have them. I have encouraged everyone to accept all children equally. It's one world, one child. Perhaps if we all remember that all children laugh in the same language, we can learn to overcome language barriers and promote peace. my approximately 20 years creating a high school yearbook, being the gifted adviser leading the decorating club in two buildings, and teaching high school students to work with a budget to have an affordable and free prom in the year 2015 that only had six kids that didn't

025attend. People didn't know that we were aware that they didn't weren't planning to attend because they didn't have dresses and we and dress shirts and we found them for the students. It was the right thing to do and it was certainly important to them. I'm a firm believer that anything can be done if we work together with mutual respect and recognition of each other's boundaries. It was my pleasure to give back to the community each of my 40 years while working at Northern Lehigh and entice others to join in. I remain positive and optimistic despite life's unexpected changes. When Pope Julius asked Michelangelo to paint over the cracks in his small cyine chapel, Michelangelo said to him, "You have the wrong man. I don't paint. I'm a sculptor." You know, you learn to bend because

026what you do because you want to do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, you do better. I chose to do as they say, to push up to the prison bars to see stars and not mud. That's figuratively, not literally. For Northern Lehigh, we can do anything if we work together and keep a positive attitude in your back pocket. I'm very surprised that it's been 40 years here because I don't even feel 40 years old. I encourage my two my own two children to remain kind to mother earth and to learn to communicate with everyone. They can speak eight languages I think English, French, multiple dialects of Spanish, including ancient Peruvian and Chilean dialects, Portuguese, Italian, German, PWA and Swahili. They give me great pride as they use their

027medical degrees to work on global international infectious diseases, neuroscience and brain research and global ocean sustainability microlastics research. I keep the bar raised for the children of Northern Lehi equally as I would for my own. I encourage you all in the board and in the audience to study a language, draw, paint, remain positive, be frugal with the budget, and continue to work together to make the world a better place for all learners. I look forward to the next 25 years of my life because after all, the world is just a plane wide ride away, Mom. And I will check in on Northern Lehigh every now and then to hear Miss Matt shout it again and smile. I say to you, goodbye. Ciao. Adios. Alra Zane. Thank you. Thank you for your service. Really appreciate it.

028You've done a great job. So >> So you and I understand each other. We're going to do the business manager report, then public comment, and then adoption of the budget. Is that what you were thinking or not? >> Yes, sir. >> Okay. Just so we're on the same page. So, having said that, you're all through, Dr. Link. >> I am. >> Thank you. >> So, we'll go into the business manager report. Miss Milo Torres. >> All right. This is going to be our presentation for the final um budget for the 2627 school year. And I'm going to turn it over to Dr. Link who's going to start the presentation. Okay, for some reason this is not projecting right. Give me one second here, ladies and gentlemen. Okay. slide mode. Um, okay. This evening we're going

029to give our final board presentation of the final budget for the 2627 school year. I don't know why. >> Nope. >> Uh, this is not transitioning. Can one of you come up here? It's amazing. Thank you, Mr. Hill. So, this evening, we're going to give the school year um 2627 school year board final budget. And I'll start with a slide here that you've seen before with some additional annotation at the bottom. Um the elimination, this includes the elimination of a middle school math position through a resignation which would then be covered through an internal transfer. Elimination of an emergency certificated Spanish ESL staff position which we would not renew for the uh application to the state for another year of an emergency certification. the permanent substitute position all through attrition and retains the secondary music

030position band d band director. Also, there's an addition of a high school business position through a staff transfer and internal staff transfer. All right. So after our finance committee meeting um on last Monday evening, we took the direction from uh the board at that point in time on what they wanted to see in our budget. So we did um these were the items that were discussed. Um the other department budgets we had the each one of the uh building budgets were cut by 2%. Um, we removed Canvas from Peter's Elementary School since they are um they will not need Canvas anymore. Um, because we are transition away from onetoone devices at that building. Um, which is this $80,000 for the technology K through2 um that is as I just said the cut of the technology

031from that building uh individual. There will still be carts in those buildings for the te uh for the teachers and the students to have access to technology. They just won't be in their hands all day long. Um we cut the Northern Lehigh Police Department by 5,000, the superintendent budget by 5,000, professional development by 10,000, board budget by five, legal by five, district uh property insurance, our insurance came in uh less expensive than originally projected. So that was a $10,000 cut. SPAC special education budget was cut by 10. Um the transfer that we do every year to CR uh due to St. Luke's donations that we are keeping in the general fund to offset athletic costs for this year. Uh transportation reduction of $144,000 and LCDTI reduction of 163. That's just what we are paying less

032by $163 than what was in the original budget. Originally on these other budget uh department budget adjustments was the library. We have put the library back in the budget. That's why you're not going to see that on these slides. So the totals of all of the other budget adjustments total $353,872. Now we move to the salary and benefit reductions. So we had a reduction in administrative salaries. Our workers comp came in uh insurance came in less than originally projected. Um we had a permanent sub whose insurance they elected was not at the family so I could reduce the budget by that. Um some of our professional staff actually two professional staff members that were in there um had moved step movement and um were hired at a higher rate than was originally in the budget.

033uh par profofessionals um department chairs all through attrition we are recommending removing those positions um along with a permanent sub the business position as Dr. Link has stated that is being filled at the high school but through the moving of staff that is already on hand and the elimination of that emergency certified position that Dr. Link also talked about. So the total savings in our salary and benefit reduction is 537862. Since Monday's evening's board meeting, we had the retirement um um of Miss Mola who was just up here, but we will need to fill her position. So that's why you see um her deduction at 152547 in red and the replacement for her is roughly about 140 depending upon um where we're able to hire somebody and what kind of medical benefits they choose. Um

034and then we did have the resignation of a middle school math teacher um and we are recommending that we can cover that in-house and through attrition not fill that position. with the um salary and benefit positions that were listed just on the previous slide um we lose some revenue because of that. So this is the deduct from the revenue side um because we're not going to have as pay in as much FICA pay in as much retirement. So, we need to offset our um s our uh subsidy payments for that we would be getting that we're not going to get as much as what we originally would because we cut our salaries. Last, we increased some of our revenues for our basic ed. We increased that by 50,000. Our special ed subsidy, we increased by

03525,000. Um we received a donation from our education foundation for our steam camp busing for the summer. That's $4,100. Um, we increased our interarmms real estate tax by 3500, real estate transfer tax by 50,000, and delinquent per capita by 2,000. So when we look back at our April deficit, our April deficit we were at 3,275 211. um of that we were using some fund balance for one-time purchases along with um other items to balance the budget like increase in peace or an increase in medical um debt service payments. The board at the finance committee meeting on Monday evening um made the recommendation to the board that they did not want to purchase the furniture um replacement furniture at Slington and Peters or I'm sorry Slington and the high school next year. So, we're going to

036take that off of our expenditures because they were actually expenditures within the budget. So, that takes that April deficit now down to 3,1751. And then our one-time purchases for, as I said, the water softener debt service payment, the new math curriculum, healthc care increases. Um, we were at a little over a million2, we're now down to a million118 105. And that is uh leaving us with a total deficit as of um when we did the preliminary budget in April. We're now at $2,57,061. That is with no tax increase in the budget at that point in time. The board of education will make the decision tonight on where they want to land with the budget with a tax increase. So looking at the whole picture, um we had 2,57061. We took out that total building department

037budgets of the 353. We took out the salary and benefits at 537. We took out the new salary and benefit reductions of the retirement that just happened along with that um the math resignation. So that's a savings of 12133. Again, I have to put money back into the budget because we're not getting as much revenue for some of those salary and benefit items that happen. So that's an increase of 107132 and then we increased our revenues by 134688. So right now our June deficit without any tax increase in the budget is 1,16,438. So, picking up there, the board previously approved a a proposed increase of 4.32% blended tax increase. That's what it equates to when you look at it across Northampton County and Lehigh County. That would take the total remaining deficit down to $157,832

038if they approve a 4.32% blended tax increase. If you drop down to 4.25% blended tax increase, you'll see that the remaining deficit then would be $168,817. And you can see how it steps down a quarter% each time down to 3.5% blended tax increase, which would then be a total remaining deficit of $315,361. getting there. All right. So, now we're looking at um the impact on property owners. So, again, um that tax increase that's currently built in the budget will give us 858,66 additional dollars. Um, our Lehigh County home assessed at a median assessed value is 152,550. So, you can see that last year's tax bill was 3,9 or I'm sorry, 3,964.99. If we did the 4.31, that taxpayer at that meeting assessed would see an increase in their tax bill of $109. And then you

039could see it step down each one as we stepped it down. Northampton County is four po uh 46,250 is their median assessed home value. Um out of 4.32 blended for them it is 1816 it's $18163 and then it steps down from there as well. There is a difference between Lehigh County and Northampton County because of the equalization of mills and how we have to equalize mills with steps. >> Okay. Okay. Administrative recommendations uh and direction sought from the school board. Administration is recommending utilization of fund balance for one-time math curriculum, debt service payment, and healthcare increases. Passing a 4.32% blended tax increase in conjunction with utilization of fund balance to close the gap in addition to generating some revenue for upcoming years for capital improvements. That being said, uh Mr. Mr. Green, that concludes the

040report and now I would recommend that we open it up to public comment on uh agenda items. Looks like most people want to speak on the budget and there's a couple people that are looking to speak just on general general comments. Uh first we have uh Mr. Mr. Dave Hower and he's looking to speak on J business managers report I believe. Thank you. >> Good evening and thank you. Uh before I speak on the budget, I would like to speak on something that kind of sort of touches some of the staffing implement uh imple implications, excuse me, uh that are in there. Um, I want the board to know, um, my son Jackson is about to get straight A's for the first time this school year, and it's because of the really, really hard work

041of, uh, the teachers that he has. I know Mrs. Binder is here tonight. I apologize if I'm missing anyone else. Um, but also the good advice and counsel of Mrs. Dada and Mr. Brryer truly help with that. We need to give these people all the tools that we can uh, for students to find success because I'm living that as as a father. So, thank you to everyone who helped with that. I'm tired of hearing the phrase tough decisions uh coming this way toward the audience, particularly when they're used to describe budget choices that face the district. Don't call them tough decisions. Call them what they really are. Just call them cuts to student programs and cuts that impact the teachers and paraprofessionals who work directly with students every day. Words matter. Your words matter more.

042You're at the pulpit. You're the ones making the decisions. When we call these tough decisions, it can make them sound like they're unavoidable, and they are not. They are choices. And before we make choices that reduce program, services, and support for students, we owe it to this community and to our students to ask tougher questions. When staffing comes up, I would hear a lot about class sizes. When I was an administrator here, I hear a lot about it now as a parent. Uh, and that sometimes we move staff because class sizes look pretty good in certain buildings versus other places. But I will tell you that staffing decisions must be more than class sizes. What is the impact on scheduling, on the course offerings, vertical alignment of schedules, student supports, interventions, and the overall educational

043experience in each building. You transfer a teacher, it doesn't just impact class size, it impacts what that principal can do in their buildings. There's a program impact. Those questions need to be addressed. That should be in the presentation as well. We also need to stop treating vacancies as automatic opportunities to save money. When a position becomes vacant, the first question should not be how much can we save. The first question should be how do we preserve the position and the services it provides to students. When this building became a middle school from a junior high in 2002, it employed 32 full-time professionals. Eventually, that dwindled to 28. When I took over it was 24. When I left, it was 19. So when we look at staffing slides that show progression and increases in professional staff,

044we have to go a historical perspective beyond that and look to what those positions are because not all of them are teachers. I asked this board to do its research on the historical perspective of staffing and the impact it has had on programs. I saw in tonight we're removing the emergency certified staff. Who picks up that work? Will teachers be spread even thinner than they are? We were going to remove a math teacher. How will that be handled? I know the math class sizes at the middle school aren't bad, but there's more to it than that. I worry about how the schedule and how the offerings are balanced around that. Are we going to be relying more on dual certified faculty members who when they leave now we have multiple things that we need to

045fill? These moves are making it harder for principles and teachers to deliver the essential services that we, the taxpayers and parents are paying more than $40 million to receive. I would say that our PAR is helping that, but apparently they're all being cut, and that's not right either. Our teachers make incredible things happen, but every staffing decision has consequences beyond the four rules of the classroom. This is why the district should hire a business teacher, not simply transfer one from another building. And it is why even the mention of cutting a band director and music position should be completely unacceptable. That should not even be floated in this district. We we should be strengthening programs, not spreading staff even thinner. Our students deserve the same rich educational experiences and diverse programming that families expect in

046any school district. Yes, we must live within our means, but we also need to make decisions that are student centered. We must protect the integrity of our programs, the well-being of our teachers. I'll say that one again. The well-being of our teachers and building principles and the experiences that help students succeed. If we're truly talking about tough decisions, let's talk about the fund balance. I praise Dr. Link and Mrs. Molatorus for following best practices and keeping a fund balance with multiple months of uh uh monies in there in case things happen. That's great. But we are well above that to the tunes of millions of dollars. This board can make motions to tap into savings because we're at that rainy day. I don't want you using fund balance for recurring costs unless absolutely necessary. But

047we're there now. I'm out of time. Thank you very much. I hope you consider that. Thank you. Thank you, Mr. Hower. Next, we have Mr. Justin Jacovitz. >> Again, Mr. Justin Jakovitz. So, I signed up for multiple items. Do you want me to read just go for one right now or do you want me to read all I think I signed up for three different ones. >> So this will be your five minutes. >> Okay. For all three. >> You got five. >> Yep. So the first one would be for the committee um minutes from last week. Um the attachments that are on there. So this is threee. Um those attachments are just the agenda and they're not minutes. Did you guys review those? Like there's no notes, there's no minutes. It's just it's the

048agenda from the committee meeting last week. That's what you're voting to approve right now. It's just that agenda. There's no notes on there. Was that reviewed prior to today? Did anybody on the board review that? Did anybody on the administration review that? Because I did, but one through seven or one through six, I apologize. Um they're just the agenda. They're not minutes. So, I would hold off on voting on that. I thought there was a lot of important discussion last week. They should that should be in the minutes before you guys vote. No, no comment. I mean, did anybody agree? They I mean, did anybody look it over? That's concerning to me. It's the exact agenda from the committee meeting that you're voting on as minutes right now and there's nothing. There's no notes on

049there. Who are the chairpeople from the committees? Did they take notes last week? Isn't that what's supposed to be happening at the committee meetings? I know you don't have to respond, but you're looking silly right now because you're approving something that has no notes or any type of minutes on it. It says it right here. Minutes from technology committee all the way through 1 through six. How are you going to vote on something where there's no minutes? I don't understand. Not even sure what to say just based on your facial reactions. It's just ridiculous. Um, second one I'm going to comment on is 5B. So, uh, Mr. Hower hit on this one, but moving uh, Miss Wolf from Mrs. Wool from an, uh, second or from Sllayington Elementary to a secondary business teacher. That seems

050like an internal move. Um, I would question what is the impact of that? I, as a board member would want to know how it's impacting the elementary school where she's leaving from and then what is the impact on the secondary schools. I'm assuming it's middle and high school that she's going to. So when you guys discuss I would I would suggest discussing that because essentially you're not I mean you're moving her but then you're losing an elementary teacher in the process. So we're doing more as Mr. Hower said kind of uh we're losing staff but we're creatively moving them to pretend like we're filling positions when we're really not. We're really removing it from the district as he said with the different numbers there. Um okay the next one is number 10 A. Um so

051this is the retirement incentive plan. Um, I would be interested to see this. It says it was distributed to board members only. Maybe the solicitor could provide some feedback on this. Why is it board members only and not available to the public for that? That's new business number 10A, retirement incentive plan for 2526. It says distributed to board members only. I could do a right to know for everything, which I'm going to get to that with my general comments, but okay. does not become document formally approved by the school board. Once it's approved by the school board, it will be available either under the right to know or if they decide to post it on the website. >> Okay. So, we can't see it to give feedback prior to approval. That's what you're talking. >>

052Well, under the sunshine law, technically you're not entitled to any documents. Um the sunshine law gives you access to an agenda. That's what's sleepable required. There's case law backing that up. >> Okay, that's fine. So, I'm doing my general comment, too. Everything's combined under the five minutes is that we're doing or is this? Yeah. Okay. Um, so I just want to follow up. I sent a a very lengthy email this week. Uh, my major concern, I can go into a lot of different things, but I'm pressed for time here today. Um, from the committee meeting last week, I spoke a lot there. I followed up with an email to uh all the school board and I think pretty much almost all the administrative staff of the school district. Um and I basically got a response

053that you know we're not giving out information. Some of some of the things that I asked for which I mentioned last week was in uh position descriptions for administration where I feel should be posted on the website and also a line item expense sheet showing where our money is actually being spent. Again, some school districts actually put this directly on their website. So it's not just the agenda. It's not just basic information. Um I think that that's very transparent and that's what our expectations are as a community is to see that information. Um so I sent a very lengthy email. Um I was um I got one school member, one school board member responded back to me. Uh which was nice. But my concern is that we come to committee meetings, we come to these

054meetings, we bring concerns, nobody responds, and nobody's responding to emails as well. So that's very concerning as a uh member of the community. How are we supposed to communicate with you if you're not going to respond there and you're not going to respond to emails? So, I would really like for you to either answer here or you can respond to the emails. Thank you. >> Next, we have Pete Bastas. Uh, I'm sorry. Uh, Mr. Vastas, are you going to comment on an agenda item now or is it a general comment which would >> comment like I listed on the paper? >> But nothing on the agenda item itself. On the agenda, >> it's about the music. >> So, general comments are typically reserved for the end. Um, we did talk about the music position in

055the presentation. If you would like to, you can do it now because it was on the presentation. Give me a minute. >> Sure. Got debuse. The French composer said, "The true magic of a song lies in the intentional space, pauses, and breaths between the sounds." In other words, music is the space between the notes. And I've seen it with these kids. To deprive them of a music education is criminal. It's insane. It's downright stupid. uh to even consider such a travesty is goes against everything education stands for. These kids are motivated. They're dedicated. They bust their behinds. I've seen it with my sons. I seen these kids out here like me and my fellow Marines out there in their uniforms sweating, practicing. They keep their academics up and they love it. Music is a lifelong

056pursuit. My late father who was an educator taught me that. Taught me to believe in the students. Believe in my sons. I believe in every Gabriel, every Logan, every Darius, every Ree, every other son and daughter that's sitting behind me that's in this band. So, please do the right thing. and leave the music department alone so these kids can foster. Who knows there might be another Jimmyi Hendris or a Mozart or somebody else. And even if not, they enjoy this. They dedicate themselves. So, and I had just wanted one more thing. Uh like I said, my late father was a teacher at Southern Lehi for over 30 years. In fact, that's my grandmother's baby grand right there that he donated when when he was before he had to uh go into hospice care and for

057medical. So, what I am going to do, and I can't afford it, but I am making a donation to the Northern Lehigh music department for however whatever these kids can do, however they can use it. Yeah, I can't afford it. But these kids are our future and we should be behind them instead of having entertaining an idea such as dumb as getting rid of a music department. I've watched all the Mr. Carol, Mr. Tanzas, and the phenomenal Mr. Yonman. I I don't know if he's here today, but I I've just noticed it. I mean, I can't say enough to So, I'll just leave it at that. Please do the right thing and leave the music department alone. Thank you. I know you don't like this, but I I just want to say something. As of

058the committee meeting, the band is back in the budget. It's not approved yet, but it's back in. If that comes out of the budget, there will be an opportunity to comment on that. I'm just saying that if you're thinking of making comments about the ban, the ban is currently part of the recommendation for the budget. That's where we're at at the moment. Okay? So, I just wanted to say that so everybody knows where we're at. Okay. >> Uh, next we have Mrs. Mary Frank. feel really close tonight. Last week we were back there. Anyway, um hello. As the board evaluates potential changes to our budget and district structure, its primary duty to the community is to ensure that every dollar invested ultimately supports student achievement. Um, as I stand here and represent NLEA, we ask

059that you carefully consider how these decisions may affect the workload of teachers and building level staff who have the most direct impact on student learning. Regardless of whether positions are retained, restructured, or eliminated, the responsibilities associated with those roles do not disappear. Our concern is centered on ensuring that the district and board fully evaluate where these responsibilities will be assigned and how redistribution may affect those working closest to students. Teachers today already face significant demands, including lesson planning, data analysis, intervention, implementation, communication with families, and addressing a wide range of student needs across all grade levels. With teacher- held responsibilities such as department chairs also under consideration, it is important to recognize that additional duties, even those that seem minor when viewed individually, can collectively increase workload and reduce the time teachers have available for

060direct instruction and student support. That direct work with students is the most important part of our profession. Yet, it is often the first thing impacted when additional responsibilities are added. If duties are shifted, I encourage the board to assess whether adequate time, resources, and support structures will accompany those changes. Likewise, if responsibilities are consolidated with other roles, it is important to consider whether that model can continue to provide timely and effective support to educators. As you make these decisions, I ask that teacher workload remain a central consideration. Any organizational change should ultimately strengthen the support systems around classroom educators, allowing them to focus their time, expertise, and energy on the students they serve every day. Ultimately, I ask you to consider all of these things because any direct chait hang on, I even typed it

061today. Ultimately, I ask you to consider all of these things because any change directly impacting the capacity and time our teachers and PAR educators have to work directly with our students and at the end of the day, our students have to remain our number one priority. Thank you. Next, we have uh Justin Schaw. Uh Mr. Schol, do you want to comment? You have bylaws and general comment. So, which specific which specific agenda item? >> Can you just move me to recognition of guests at the end? >> Yes, sir. >> Thank you. >> Um, I just need to put a note. Okay. Next, we have uh Mrs. Katcha Bender looking to uh discuss agenda items. Um, so there are two separate agenda items I wanted to speak on tonight. Does the same policy apply that I

062have five minutes for both even though they're not related? >> You have five minutes. >> Okay. So to begin with, I would like to address the continued plan to shuffle around positions within our district, especially when it comes to the power professionals. These are some of our lowest paid employees in the district, but they carry some of the greatest responsibility. They spend time one-on-one with our students every single day, and they ensure that many students have a successful outcome that they would not have without the help of a paraprofessional. Whether these are emotional support paras who spend their day in one classroom directly assisting a teacher or simply instructional paras who meet many different roles in our district including pulling children one-on-one to assist them academically or in small groups as well as serving recess

063duty, lunch duty, bus duty, inschool suspension, lunch detentions, etc. These are all positions that our district cannot do without unless we would like to see grades deteriorate, behaviors go south, and consequences not being able to be address given out for behaviors that require them. If we remove too many paras from our district, who will cover inschool suspensions? or will we simply cons continue throwing students into the main office where they can hear all the goings on of the day and it violates the privacy of other students? Who will cover lunch detentions or will we continue requiring students to eat at a small desk inside of the main office again violating the privacy of other students? Who will cover recess duty? or will we simply take recess away from students because teachers must use that time

064to handle IEPs, phone calls to parents, and other meetings? Who will take care of our lunch duties when our lunch aids positions cannot be filled because they have quit due to the behavior of students? We live in a society where unfortunately teachers are somehow expected to be the parents for all students. As a result, they the behavioral management requirements in our buildings are something that was never before seen in society in our state and in our district. By removing parent professionals, you're removing teachers ability to teach because they will be required to do the parenting for those parents who do not wish to parent their children. While I don't agree with this, it's an unfortunate reality. And those children who are adequately parented also have the right to learn and be educated and should not

065have to give up the teacher's time so that they can manage children who struggle behaviorally. Children also struggle academically but are not always av uh eligible for IEPs or 504 plans. Our paraprofessionals are vital to their educational success. If you remove them, how is a teacher supposed to spend time individually with these students while still trying to educate 24 other students in the classroom? Shuffling them around, making it look like you're not decreasing the numbers doesn't actually work. In addition, I would like to point out that at no time during any of this budget revamping have we addressed the fact that we are a topheavy district and our upper administration is overpaid. I would now like to move on to the other item I would like to speak on. That would be in part five

066personnel um letter G, the rescending of the appointment of coach Charles Kresy as the middle school boys soccer coach. I do not see another appointment listed in place of that position. Last year, my son played on the middle school boys soccer team. A coach was not appointed until the very day of the start of PIAAA season. They had no chance for summer workouts, no opportunity to recruit, and they were left with a 10player team that was supposed to compete against the other schools in our area. He was able to recruit my oldest son as a freshman to play as their goalie, who had never played soccer since he was six years old. and gave it a whirl once. These 11 kids worked their butts off and ended up with a winning season and it had

067everything to do with the fact that they had a competent coach who worked very hard to do what he could in the minimal amount of time given. If you are rescending this appointment, I expect there to be a solution to this before the last minute again or we are simply shooting our sports program in the foot that we so excitedly started just a year ago. Thank you. >> Next we have Madison Corrupt. No, thank you. >> Thank you. >> Okay. >> Uh, next we have uh Nate Walters for the band program. Hello. Well, I'd like to comment on filling the music education role in the high school, which was mentioned in the proposed budget, which hasn't been approved yet, which is why I'd like to comment on it. >> Sorry, excuse me, sir. >> Where

068is your place of residence? >> Um, legally, uh, 322A Oak Street, Wanaport, Pennsylvania. >> This says Hoboken, New Jersey. >> That's temporary. It's because I'm a college student. I don't actually legally live there. >> Are are you living in the district is the question. Yes, I live in Walaport, Pennsylvania. 322A Oak Street 01808. >> This that was my temporary address while I was attending school. >> Okay. Okay. Thank you for clarifying. >> Thank you. >> Of course. >> So, my name is Nate and I graduated from Northern Lehigh in 2022. I was heavily involved in the band program ever since I could join, which was fourth grade. Since that point, it became evident to me that music will forever be a part of my life. I just didn't know to what degree. Speaking of degrees,

069I am currently finishing my college degree. As I'm continuing to pursue my journey in higher academia, I have had the increasing realization that my high school has failed me in a multitude of ways. My freshman year of college was filled with hearing about all the opportunities and resources my peers had. It felt like I was already behind in trying to get ahead. I understood why this was the case as Northern Lehigh is a small school with limited resources. This is something I I was aware of while attending but overlooked during my time because I only had one perspective, nothing else to compare it to. I'm now able to zoom out and see that there are really only two things that I am very prideful to be able to call myself a Northern Eye alumni for,

070and that's Mrs. Tedman's ability to cultivate a welcoming space in the library and the band program. Going to college in Hudson County, New Jersey, no one knew Northern Lehigh in Little Slington, Pennsylvania. The only exception was whenever I brought up the marching band, I was able to say that we were a school who competed in group one open class and consistently was in the top five. Some individuals who also competed um in TOB then recognized the name Northern Lehigh. I was able to say that we hosted Santa Clara Vanguard as well as the Boston Crusaders at my high school. I was able to say that my band program was active, high achieving, and thriving. I would hear about how some schools did not have a band program and it sounded like a nightmare, a reality

071that I felt very privileged to not have lived. And now it crushes me to realize that this nightmare potentially could come true if the role is not filled. Music is an essential part of education. As I began my college career um majoring in music technology, I switched to electrical engineering because I love math and I also wanted to give myself more opportunities in a music career. I realized that my previous music education taught me how to be an efficient learner. I could apply my music knowledge to many other areas of my education. I was sitting in my differential equations course learning about the fast 4ear transform, an algorithm that takes signal and breaks it into its fundamental frequency components and it just it clicked. I often need to understand the theoretical to navigate what I'm

072doing computationally. My brain was able to pull knowledge from when I was sitting in band class with Mr. David Carroll learning about how different musical pitches create contrasting pressurized waves moving in at different frequencies. This gave me intuition for mathematical computation of frequency analysis. The same could be said for when I was in my computer science lecture learning about the software Max MSP. This is a complex language using node based visual scripting systems where different functions and programmable boxes would link to other functions. I started to connect my understanding of signal flow, a concept that was first introduced to me in marching band, to executing programmable functions. Setting up all of the electronics used in marching band was a technical process with many moving parts. Um, the realworld experience has allowed me to have a

073deeper understanding in my circum systems class as well. Again, being able to follow how current travels through different mediums to a destination. Marching band and music has not only positively contributed to what I've learned, but how I learn. Having to memorize complex music with key changes, metered poly rhythms, and intricate melodies allowed me to internalize the process of intaking multi-dimensional information and having output for it. My mind runs through the same processes while learning and playing music as it does while I'm solving complex physics or math equations. Marching band and music engages with your brain in a unique way that no other activities do offer. It's a full exercise of the body and mind that requires excessive cognitive abilities. I encourage all of the school board members to do extensive research of how valuable music

074education is for developing the brain. Countless studies support my personal accounts for music's ability to increase neuroplasticity. Marching band and band class were the only high school experiences that I can confidently say prepared me for an academically rigorous environment and a mentally demanding schedule. Marching band requires discipline, focus, and time management skills. These are all things that I now carry with me through my adult life. Um, music has currently a part of my life. I'm a drummer in two bands. I work live sound gigs and I um am going to enter a career that involves electrical engineering and music. All of the success that I have in my life can be attributed to music. I refuse to sit and watch the school take another opportunity away in an environment where there is already so little

075possibilities to be had. Thank you. >> Thank you. Next we have Sarah. >> I'm sorry Sarah I can't read. I would like to be quiet >> you. Okay, thank you. Uh, next we have Lacy Ramali. Lacy, it looks like you want to comment on basketball, which is not one of the agenda items at the end. Okay, thank you. Okay, next we have uh Noah Stettler. Hello, my name is Noah Sler. I am the head drum major for the Northern Leah marching band. I spoke here last week and I would like to say thank you for adding band back into the budget for the for for for the foreseeable future. And I would like to thank uh I'm sorry I forget your name for your apology last week. It has been greatly accepted. And to Mrs.

076Culp for after the segment was over coming down here and shaking my hand after and apologizing then too. Um band is greatly appreciated at our school and our community in band is also here to support us. There aren't people here from just northern Lehi. It's just it's Northwestern and Nazareth and a bunch of people watching at home. Um it's greatly appreciated. Thank you guys for adding it back and remember learning, leading and learning, leading, learning and living to make every story better. Thank you. Okay, next we had uh Maryanne Mola, but she already spoke. And now we have uh Matthew Corrupt. Good evening. I'll just keep my brief I'll just keep my comments really really brief. Um first on behalf of the parents in the community, thank you very much for keeping the band program

077because these kids work their butts off every day of the week and twice on Sunday. and it is definitely proven during a lot of things. Um just at the end of the day when it comes to the professionals as far as the teachers and go please don't cut their don't cut don't cut them because it's them that mentors and takes care of them. Remember we took an oath. It's not to leave these kids behind. And at the end of the day, we leave these kids behind and we are just as guilty. So to the students, parents, and community of the Northern Lehigh School District that came to support your peers for this cause, I will say this. You should be one you should be 100% proud of yourselves in everything you have said and done

078to save this program, to keep your song heard. You have shown true Northern Lei Bulldog pride and spirit. With that, I would like to thank the school board for your time. And with that, go dogs. Okay. The next three individuals want to speak at the end of the meeting. Uh so we'll hold for public comment on non-aggenda items and then we have another uh me community member that would like to speak at the end of the meeting as well. So that is everyone that signed up to speak on agenda items this evening. Thank you. Thank you. So that being said, uh Mr. Green, uh at this time, administration is looking for direction on the approval of the 2627 uh school year budget. And as a reference, we will let that slide back up on the

079screen. And you'll have the same in your packets. Okay. We're looking for a motion on the budget. Uh the recommendation is what you're seeing in uh item A there. Uh is there a motion to approve that item? Is there a motion to approve that item? Administration is recommending item A under adoption of general budget. Is there a motion to approve that item? >> So move. >> We have a motion. Thank you. >> Second. and a second. Uh, I'll go through it. All those in favor signify by saying I. >> Those opposed, no. >> No. >> Okay, roll call. >> Miss Bilby, >> no. >> Mr. Fedora, >> yes. >> Miss Husach, >> yes. Miss Culp, >> yes. >> Miss Snider, >> no. >> Miss Thompson, >> yes. >> Mr. Weber, >> no. Miss Williams, >>

080no. Mr. Green, >> yes. >> One, two, three, four, >> five yeses. >> Four nos. >> Motion passes. >> Motion. Motion passes. >> I thought I had six, but five. >> Was it five? Okay. >> Okay. So, the motion passes uh five to four. And we have a budget. Having said that, I'm going to ask Mrs. valator to do attachment eight which is kind of filling in all the numbers uh that are necessary. Uh we have a sheet here for that somewhere. >> Yeah. Okay. Do you want to read off those numbers, Sher, or do you have it printed or >> I think got it done. >> I thought we were going to vote on what we wanted our tax increase to be. That's >> that's what that motion was. No, the motion was to

081approve the actual dollar amount of the budget. The next item to approve is the percentage of the tax that we are doing. No fun budget for high school district. >> You're you're right, Donna. It is just the total budget. It's not the amount. >> I I agree. I agree with that 100%. So, we've agreed to that and now we need to do the millie rate. I apologize for that. You're absolutely correct. I misread that. So then we need a motion uh to approve the I'm going to say at this point the 4.38 I think it is blended rate >> 4.32 >> 4.22 is it >> 32 4.32 Thank you. >> Is there a motion to approve the 4.32 blended motion this page? Yeah. Is there a motion to approve the 4.32 blended tax increase? One

082more time. Is there a motion to approve the 4.32% blended tax increase? Hearing no motion. Uh is there another motion on approving the 43 million plus budget? Anyone any place anywhere you want to go. >> I'd like to make a motion uh for a 2% increase. I know it's not on the sheet, but we can do the numbers to figure it out. >> A 2% increase >> and then the difference will come where Mr. Weber on the >> fund balance. >> From where? >> Fund balance. Okay. Thank you. >> Thank you. >> Okay. Is there a second for that motion? >> I'll second that. Motion and a second. >> Uh, all those in favor signify by saying I. >> I. >> Opposed? No. >> No. Okay. Roll call. >> Mr. Pedorche? >> Yes. >> Miss

083Husach? >> Yes. Miss Culp? >> Yes. >> Miss Snder? >> Yes. >> Miss Thompson? >> Yes. >> Mr. Weber? >> Yes. >> Miss Williams? >> Yes. >> Miss Bilby? >> No. >> Mr. Green. I would be a no, but doesn't matter. Motion is approved. 2% increase the rest from fund balance. >> You have your direction on that. You're okay. >> Just a minute. All right. So the board motion um every board members you do have the resolution 202603 in front of you. Line three will be a tax increase for Lehigh County of 26.1162 mills or 2.61162 per $100 of assessed valuation for real estate in Lehigh County and 83.8475 mills or 8.38475 per $100 of assessed valuation for Northampton County. >> Okay. I didn't get all those numbers. Does anybody need those numbers? >> I

084just repeat it. Okay. Would you repeat those again, please? >> I sure can. Yep. So, um, a tax rate of 26.1162 mills or 2.61162 per $100 of assessed valuation in Lehigh County and 83.8475 mills or 8.38475 per $100 of excess valuation in Northampton County. >> Okay, you've heard the numbers. Is there a motion to approve the resolution which includes among other things the per capita tax etc etc etc. >> So we're looking for a motion to approve that resolution. >> Motion. >> Thank you Mrs. Snder. >> Second Mr. Whatever. All those in favor of approving the resolution, please signify by saying I. >> I. >> Opposed? No. And so we're I didn't need that yellow paper. Okay, we have completed our budget. And uh I think I mentioned we had an executive session at 6

085o'clock. If I didn't, uh I will mention that now since it's on the agenda. >> Matt, you you missed item B, >> which is the Homestead Farmstead. I I I just wanted to go back and get that K because I was reminded of that before I moved on. >> Sorry, >> that's no problem. Uh item B is approving the Homestead Farm Act Act. Is there a motion to approve that? >> I'll move second. >> Motion a second. >> Yes. Give me just a second to figure to put these numbers in and then I can get it for you. There's a lot more numbers on this one. county is 433. >> While she's doing that, you do a band next year, by the way. So, just in case you were wondering, that's approved now. So, All

086right. >> You ready? >> Um, yep. Again, board members, you have resolution number 2020 2026 pip-en 04. I'm going to refer you to the back page, that first uh paragraph. You're going to see about halfway down it's going to say an additional aggregate amount of that dollar amount is 49,205.41 and then about two lines under than that you're going to see the calculation of the maximum amount for Homestead Farmstead will be 504.88. And again, that other line all the way to the right at the end of that paragraph is the same dollar amount, the 504.88. That is the um maximum amount for approved homestead and farmstead. Number four, homestead exclusion calculation. Again, reduction amount of 504.88 by by the school district real estate tax rate of 26.11 62 mills in parentheses it'll be 026 62

087for Lehigh County and 83.8475 MS in parentheses 0838475 for Northampton County. Exclusion for each approved homestead in North in Lehi County, excuse me, is 19,333. And for Lehi or for Northampton County, it is 6,021. And then again it talks about farmstead. The assessed amount for Lehigh County for farmstead is 19,333. And again the last line in that item number four is Northampton County's amount for Farmstead which is 6,21. Number five. Again, your first line is going to see the SAS value reduction of 1,00 or I'm sorry, 19,333 for Lehigh County bills and $6,21 for Northampton County. The next line you're going to come to is paragraph 4, maximum real estate assessed value reduction of $19,333 for Lehigh County. and 6,021 for Northampton County. And that is that resolution. >> Okay. Essentially, those are the same

088numbers you had before the topic. >> Are there any questions on the uh homestead forum set exclusion? Anyone? Anybody okay with that? Okay. All those in favor of approving that, please signify by saying I. >> I. >> Those opposed, don't. And so ordered. And in case for any reason you haven't you own a home or a farm and you haven't signed up. Uh there's a couple hundred bucks there you can pick up. I think it's too late for this year. Yep. >> But you will get something in the mail if you're not signed up. >> Correct. >> Beginning of the yearish next year from Lehigh County. Don't throw it away. Fill it out. Send it in and and you'll you'll save a couple hundred bucks while it >> So keep that in mind next year

089when you get to your tax bill. Okay, we're done. I think unless I'm missing something with the whole budget at this point. Is that correct? >> You're good. >> Okay, let's go on to personnel. Um, we have items A, B, C, D, E, F all the way up to uh J. Is there a motion to approve the personnel items, please? >> K. >> Oh, K. Sorry. We're moving up to K. Motion in second. >> Any questions? Discussion. >> Yes. >> Fedora. Mr. Fedora. >> Okay, everybody ready? All those in favor signify by saying I. >> Oppos? No. >> And so ordered. Uh you have a bunch of policies here. Remember we approved C before. Uh so you have A B down to F. Is there a motion to approve those items? >> Motion in a

090second. >> Any questions? >> I have a Can we just make it uh to the public that there was that that the handbook stuff is now online for those that are asking the question right now >> with the student handbook changes. >> They're available online and there are paper copies on the back table. Okay, Miss Billy, you okay with that? >> Yep. >> Thank you. Any other questions? Hearing none, all those in favor signify by saying I. >> Oppos? No. >> And so ordered. >> Mr. Green, I'd like to make a a comment. Um, just so the folks who came here for the band, um, I know you were concerned about whether we will be continuing with it. As a matter of fact, we just approved two new clubs that will uh affect the band,

091the choir and the guitar club. So, I hope you uh enjoy those two new opportunities that you'll have at Northern High. Thank you. >> Thank you, M. >> That was good point. Thank you for putting that out. >> I have nothing under conferences. All right. Curriculum instruction. We have what A and B. Is there a motion to approve those items? So second >> motion and second any questions or discussion hearing none. All those in favor signify by saying I >> oppos. No order. I would do new business A. New business B. I would do each one separately. >> Okay, we can do that. Yeah. Uh there's been a request to divide this up. So we're going to do new business A, uh the retirement incentive plan. Is there a motion for new business and the

092incentive plan? >> Motion second. I think you all received copies of that. There are any questions on it? >> Hearing none. All those in favor signify by saying I. >> I. >> Oppos? No. And so ordered. Uh, business B, uh, we have items A and B. So, we're looking only at new business B. Is there a motion to approve that? >> Motion. >> Second. Any questions or discussion? Hearing none. All those in favor signify by saying I. >> I. >> No. And so ordered. And then we have new business C. ABC. Uh there a motion to approve new business C. >> So move. >> Second. >> Who's that? Donna or Yeah. Okay. Thank you. >> Any questions on new business C? >> Hearing none. All those in favor signify by saying I. >> I. >>

093Those opposed, no. And so order. Uh, under financial, you have a bunch of financial reports there to approve. Uh, we have item A BCD EFG. What's that? >> Oh. Oh. Is there a motion to approve the financial items, please? >> Second. >> Thank you. Any questions on any of the items? Hearing none, all those in favor signify by saying I. I. >> Those opposed? No. It's so ordered. Uh, under legal, we have one item. Item A. Is there a motion? >> So move. >> Motion is second. We cannot have discussion on that. So all those in favor of approving it, please signify by saying I. >> I. >> No. And so ordered. I have no correspondence. I don't know. Anybody else has any Miss Susk? Anything? Nope. Thank you. >> Uh got a couple information

094items there. One, two, and three. Uh okay. Now, we're going to go back to recognition of guests who want to speak on other items. I'm going to turn it back to Dr. Link to go through his list. >> Okay. Thank you, Mr. Green. Uh we'll circle back to uh Justin Schaw. Good evening to the members of the school board. My name is Justin Schaw. I've lived in this community for 19 years and currently have a child attending this high school. I'm here to tonight to express my serious concern regarding the vote involving Coach Brandon Hibler and the damaging impact that this decision has had on students, athletes, and the community. Allegations were made against Mr. Hibler by an individual who appears to have pursued a personal agenda. Those allegations have since been shown to be

095unfounded. Despite that, this board proceeded in a manner that raises significant concerns about fairness, transparency, and the adherence to its own governing policies. Specifically, there appears to have been a direct violation of the school board's bylaws under section 006 meetings, subsections 48, 49, and 50 regarding conflicts of interest. If this board intends to operate with integrity and accountability, it must acknowledge that a vote conducted under those circumstances lacks credibility and should either be reconsidered or elevated to a higher authority for review. What's most troubling is the appearance of the member of this board to use the position to advance the personal agenda rather than act in the best interest of the district, the students, and the athletic programs. The role of a schoolboard member is to serve the community impartially and not allow personal grievances

096or relation relationships to ini uh influence official decisions. Coach Hibler has built something meaningful within this program. He's brought structure, accountability, vision, genuine care for the students he coaches. The girls respect him, support him, and enjoy being part of the program he created. The disappointment following last month's denied motion was immediate and very real. The players themselves gathered afterward, upset and searching for ways to advocate for changes that they felt unheard and disregarded. Emails have been sent that have gone unfounded. No reply, no comment, nothing. Meanwhile, this district faces far more pressing issues that we have just seen that demand the board's full attention. There is a reported, you know, reported budget shortfall, ongoing curriculum concerns, high turnover among staff, coaches, and unresolved facility issues. Yet the focus appears misplaced in matters driven by politics

097and personal conflicts rather than the actual needs of students and taxpayers. Allowing uh said board member with a direct personal interest in this matter to participate in the vote despite the appearance of conflict despite allegations later shown to be un unsubstantiated severely damages public trust. As a father and longtime me member of this community, this entire situation has left me questioning whether this board is truly committed to doing what is right for students, families, and the district as a whole. Thank you. Uh, next we have uh Lacy Ramalli. Good evening, members of the school board. Thank you for allowing me to speak tonight. I am here not only as a parent, but as someone who has witnessed firsthand what this basketball program has meant to these girls, including my own daughter. I respectfully ask the

098members who voted against coach Hibler to reconsider your decision and take another look at the impact this will have on the players, the program, and the future of girls basketball in our community. I ask each of you to put yourselves in our position and not as board members for a moment, but as parents, grandparents, former athletes, and simply people who remember what it felt like to belong to something bigger than yourselves. If this were your child coming home devastated, confused, and heartbroken over losing a coach they trusted, respected, and believed in, what would you want the board to do? Wouldn't you want every voice to be heard? Wouldn't you want decisions that affect your child based to be based on facts, fairness, and fully understanding of the situation? This season was far more was about

099far more than wins and losses. It was about growth, confidence, teamwork, accountability, resilience, and feeling supported. Coach Chibler created an environment where these girls felt valued. He challenged them, encouraged them, believed in them, and helped them become better athletes and young and better young women. Throughout all of my years, all of the years my children have participated in sports. I can honestly say this has been one of the most positive experiences we've ever had. The communication, leadership, dedication, and genuine care shown to the players did not go unnoticed. It was evident not only to the girls but also to the parents who watched the team grow throughout the season. That is why this this decision has been so difficult for many of us to understand. I understand there is was an incident this season that

100w that raised concerns. However, my understanding is that the matter was fully investigated, addressed, and resulted in no finding of findings of misconduct. If that understanding is correct, then I respectfully asked, what message are we sending to these student athletes if a coach who led with integrity, invested in his players, and was found to have committed no misconduct can still lose his position? Many families are struggling to understand how this decision aligns with the outcome that of that investigation. When decisions appear disconnected from the facts that were established, it can leave students, parents, community members questioning the fairness of the process. At that time or at a time when we teach our children the importance of honesty, accountability, and due process, it is important that they see those same principles reflected in the decisions made

101by the adults entrusted to lead this district. I also respectfully ask how many members of the board had the opportunity to attend games this season, observe coach Hibler firsthand, and see how he interacted with the players, parents, fans, community, and hear directly from the young women whose lives are most impacted by this decision. Because at the center of all this are not policies, politics, or opinions. At the center of this are the girls. These student athletes are the heart of this program. They are watching how adults handle conflict, fairness, leadership, accountability. They are learning from us all right now. And many of these girls have spoken openly about the positive impact coach Hibler had on their lives. They trusted him, respected him, felt supported by him. For some, basketball was more than a sport. It

102was a place where they felt confident, encouraged, and believed in. And many of those same girls are hurt. They're disappointed. They're confused. They are questioning why their voices seem to matter so little in a decision that affects them the most. The hardest part is knowing that this that this didn't have to happen. The girls should be looking forward to the next season and continuing to build on the foundation that was created and focusing on their growth as athletes and young women. Instead, they are hurt, confused, and wondering why a coach who supported them, believed in them, and helped them grow is no longer being given the opportunity to continue leading the program. Please do not allow one resolved incident to overshadow an entire season of positive leadership, mentorship, growth, and success. Please do not take

103away a coach, these girls trust, and belief without fully considering the long-term impact this decision will have on the program and the young women who still remain. I'm sorry. >> Okay. Um, I ask you sincerely and respectfully to reconsider your vote and re-evaluate the decision with the students at the center of it because years from now, these girls may not remember every score. They won't remember every game or every season, but they will remember the adults who stood up for them, listened to them, and showed them that their voices matter. Thank you so much for your time. Uh, next we have Mrs. Angela Williams. Hello, my name is Angela Williams. I am speaking as a parent. I'd like to set the record straight. There has been misinformation being discussed in the public about the girls

104varsity basketball coach. First, the legal investigation report concerning a minor which was unlawfully distributed to certain individuals was investigated by the school district's hired attorney group, King Spry. It was not a third party. policy 103 was the only policy >> in >> we cannot talk about per we cannot talk about uh employment decisions publicly. >> Okay. Can I can can I talk about the school district policy then? >> Uh the next policy like I was going to go into my next paragraph. The policy that was not part of the investigation uh report was policy 824 >> uh number 15. No, it's still with involves >> No, I was investigated only on policy 103, not policy 824, >> but it's it still pertains to private employment information. So, unfortunately, we can't I apologize, but that's the

105law. >> So, I can't explain what happened to my daughter. You can state your factual >> of what happened, >> what you allege happened, but in terms of investigation. >> Okay. Um I I will do that. Okay. What occurred was that three adult men were in a room alone with my teenage daughter, telling her to keep a secret while the rest of the team was sent across the street to the middle school. She was without adult representation, pressured to keep something a secret, and her teammates were not even in the building. My daughter was isolated physically from anyone who could have supported her at the time. Also, one of these men was not even approved by the school board to be in the room with my daughter. When your child comes home as in a

106state of a disarray and keeps repeating over and over, I can't tell you. I'm not allowed to tell anyone. As a parent, I was sickened about the thought of what had happened. This is every mother's nightmare. If a child comes to you and indicates that something has occurred to them, but is unable to share the details, would you choose to overlook their words or brush it off by saying, "Oh, that's just nonsense." Would you tell a child who's being abused or has experienced trauma that it's nothing, just get over it, move on. I doubt it. Since my experience with the administration, I understand why parents and students do not come forward when they have a problem or concerns. I now understand when there is a problem, it gets swept under the rug. To the parents

107of children who are facing bullying or pressure, I urge you to collect the evidence, ask to review any available videos, trust your children, and take the necessary steps to support your child and others. I pray what my daughter experienced never happens to another student in our district. >> Next we have Ariana Williams. >> Hello, my name is Ariana Williams. I'm the actual victim in the relation to the girls varsity basketball team. It is disheartening that I needed to stand here in front of everyone to tell something personal due to the incorrect lies that have been spread regarding my family. I understand everyone has an opinion based on facts not fully disclosed. The truth is the incident that was filed was an internal school investigation. While I can't really say anything anything about the school board's

108decision of what I'm about to share, I can assume that those who voted no for bringing back the coach have their own reasons. I would like each of you to picture the scenario I'm about to tell you. You have a child that is in school, whether in sports, band, or ECT. You have t you are taken into a room with three grown men, the door closed, and your teammates are sent over to another school. So now your child is by themselves, no one to assist them if they need it, and no parent present. After their interaction and situation takes place, your child is then told not to tell anyone about this, not even their parents. Keep in mind, one of the adult men in the room isn't a coach, an assistant, or an approved board

109volunteer for basketball. This is every parent's nightmare. Whether something serious or non-s serious occurs, you never want your child to find themselves in that situation. I was. The emotional distress I went through still affects me today. I suffered from panic attacks for months after that. It was hard to talk to anyone about what happened. I truly hope no child ever has to endure what I went through. It's sad that I must break down a portion of what really happened because an adult couldn't tell the truth. Shame on him. I am the one who suffered. I was the one wrong. Thank you. >> Next, we have >> uh Robin Yardis. >> I'm good. >> You're good. >> Yeah. >> Next, we have uh Mike Everett. All right. The only reason I'm here tonight is um I

110was told it was the school board at the last uh Italy meeting by the assistant superintendent who insists that as an uh a parent, not a chaperon, going on this trip uh with my wife, kids, that my bags are going to be searched. As far as I know, when I started this over $4,000 payment, nothing was mentioned. Nothing was signed. There's no reason to violate my Fourth Amendment rights. I've been a cop for 30 years. I know she can't search my bag. The school police officers know they can't search my bag without my my permission. But she insists to tell me that I cannot get on the bus um if they don't if I don't allow them to search my bag. Um, I agree that the kids bags should be searched who don't have their

111parents with them as the chaperones are more their custodian. I am with my kids. If something happens, which TSA does search my bags, I don't need another adult. They'll find something. Not like I have anything to hide. It's the principle of it and it's the legality of it. This is not This is uh a school tour, but it's not school related. My kids go on, they went to Broadway, they went whitewater rafting. Not one school official searched any of the kids' bags that went on these. Now, you're going to have search an adult that's not a chaperone. and also tell this adult that they can't bring tobacco products, which is totally legal for someone over uh with my age or that I can if I want to smoke, I can smoke in Italy while I'm

112outside the hotel. You're not going to tell me I can't do it. It's not illegal. It's not on the EF tours. And I was told it was the school board. And from what I understand, the school board just approved the uh student tour, the Y tours. But this nonsense that goes on after it is ridiculous. It totally violates any search and seizure and I don't from what I understand the police don't even know about this. I was talking to one and if it has changed she could have cut me off from the beginning. Sort of like when we were supposed to pay for the bus and I had to do my spiel to her and she said now it's paid for. So I would the trip is in a week and a half or a

113week and two days. So would expect something to be done or we will have a problem when we go to board the bus that she's not even going on as far as I know the trip. Thank you. >> That concludes our people that signed up for general comments tonight. Is that everybody? >> Uh yes sir. Okay. Uh we're comfortable that we are finished with recognition of guests. Uh you have some information items there of course. If there's no other business to be attended to, is there a motion to adjurnn? >> Move to adjourn. >> Second. >> All those in favor adjourn, please signify by saying I. >> I. And so are you. We're finished. Thank you.