1 00:00:36,880 --> 00:00:48,040 Okay, the time is now 6 o'clock. I'd like to call this meeting of the Spentry's Bookfield Regional School Committee to order. Today is Tuesday, April 14, 2026. Please be seated. 2 00:00:48,040 --> 00:00:50,900 be reminded that this meeting will be audio and video recorded. 3 00:00:51,480 --> 00:00:52,980 Please stand for the Pledge of Allegiance. 4 00:00:56,440 --> 00:01:02,300 I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States and America, and to the Republic for 5 00:01:02,300 --> 00:01:08,180 which it stands one nation under God, individual, with liberty and justice for all. 6 00:01:11,630 --> 00:01:12,830 Okay, good evening everyone. 7 00:01:13,070 --> 00:01:16,350 Looking at our agenda, first item is student reports. 8 00:01:29,820 --> 00:01:30,400 Hello. 9 00:01:30,780 --> 00:01:31,360 Hi. 10 00:01:32,080 --> 00:01:36,360 On March 2nd, the David Proudy building project achieved a big milestone. 11 00:01:36,980 --> 00:01:41,440 The construction crew lifted the new building's last structural beam into place. 12 00:01:42,160 --> 00:01:46,240 This topping off ceremony brought together student leaders amongst all the different 13 00:01:46,240 --> 00:01:50,560 grade levels, local government, staff, and members of the building committee. 14 00:01:51,040 --> 00:01:56,580 The beam which had signatures of most students and staff at David Proudy was placed after speeches 15 00:01:56,580 --> 00:01:59,340 from the senior class president and the superintendent. 16 00:01:59,340 --> 00:02:08,100 it. On March 9th, a group of students visited UMass Amherst as part of the early college high school 17 00:02:08,100 --> 00:02:12,840 program. The students were able to take campus tours, visit important buildings, and eat at 18 00:02:12,840 --> 00:02:18,480 the dining hall. This program helped students prepare for and gain college experience to make the 19 00:02:18,480 --> 00:02:24,720 best choice for their future. Matthew McNichol represented the Spencer Eastburg Field Regional School 20 00:02:24,720 --> 00:02:32,560 district. He was honored on Wednesday, March 25 as a Worcester County Superintendent's Association 21 00:02:32,560 --> 00:02:38,580 Scholar. He also received a Massachusetts Academic Achievement Award for his leadership 22 00:02:38,580 --> 00:02:45,800 and dedication to his studies. On April 3rd, David Priority High School hosted a speaker Kyle Simpson 23 00:02:46,240 --> 00:02:53,200 who discussed the dangers of distracted driving. He shared his personal experiences with the student 24 00:02:53,200 --> 00:02:55,540 and stress the importance of staying while driving. 25 00:02:56,240 --> 00:02:59,120 Last week, the David Proudy Student Council also hosted 26 00:03:00,100 --> 00:03:04,340 the prospective eighth grade students for tours and presentations 27 00:03:04,340 --> 00:03:08,640 and walk through all the extra curricular programs 28 00:03:08,640 --> 00:03:09,840 at David Proudy. 29 00:03:10,740 --> 00:03:14,220 This was a very successful event 30 00:03:14,220 --> 00:03:17,420 and students and staff are excited to see everyone again next year. 31 00:03:18,320 --> 00:03:22,000 On April 11th, members of the David Proudy National Honor Society 32 00:03:22,000 --> 00:03:25,460 We held a fundraising event for the Autism Resource Center. 33 00:03:25,680 --> 00:03:29,000 This event was well organized and had a very good turn out. 34 00:03:29,940 --> 00:03:32,040 It was fun and exciting for all those who attended. 35 00:03:33,000 --> 00:03:36,040 We are entering the final quarter of the school year. 36 00:03:36,220 --> 00:03:40,020 Next month brings many senior events that lead up to graduation. 37 00:03:40,500 --> 00:03:42,340 We look forward to celebrating this milestone. 38 00:03:42,800 --> 00:03:43,640 Thank you for your support. 39 00:03:45,120 --> 00:03:46,240 Thank you, nice job. 40 00:03:46,560 --> 00:03:47,320 Thank you. 41 00:03:50,530 --> 00:03:52,130 Okay, next item on the agenda. 42 00:03:52,130 --> 00:03:54,210 And bargaining units, leadership reports. 43 00:04:02,860 --> 00:04:03,980 Thank you for that. 44 00:04:05,660 --> 00:04:08,380 Okay, next item is the consent agenda. 45 00:04:10,440 --> 00:04:14,580 Okay, a motion to move that the school committee votes to approve the following item, 46 00:04:14,860 --> 00:04:24,260 school committee reading minutes of 31026 and 32426, payables, warrants, 1089, 1090 and 1092. 47 00:04:24,260 --> 00:04:29,400 Two, fundraisers waving the reading and listed as listed in the agenda for 48 00:04:29,400 --> 00:04:33,900 UNICEF, candle fundraisers, spring candy grams, double-grid popcorn fundraisers, 49 00:04:34,200 --> 00:04:39,640 and the car wash for the sophomore class, as well as the many school field trips 50 00:04:39,640 --> 00:04:41,580 as listed in the agenda. 51 00:04:41,860 --> 00:04:42,520 Do I have a motion? 52 00:04:43,340 --> 00:04:43,760 So moved. 53 00:04:44,440 --> 00:04:45,180 Motion by Chris? 54 00:04:46,000 --> 00:04:46,560 Second? 55 00:04:47,100 --> 00:04:47,700 Second? 56 00:04:47,840 --> 00:04:48,260 Second by Heather? 57 00:04:48,660 --> 00:04:50,340 Any further discussion on these? 58 00:04:50,340 --> 00:04:55,760 That's the question, Mr. Chief, 40-50% is all we get from a fundraiser like this, huh? 59 00:04:55,840 --> 00:05:02,400 I was looking at the numbers, and that's about, is that typical, is that the standard? 60 00:05:03,060 --> 00:05:07,980 I mean, I'm not pointing on any one particular one, and I did do an AI search, and it seems 61 00:05:07,980 --> 00:05:14,880 like that's actually the case across the public school, fundraising, 40-50%, giving up in 62 00:05:14,880 --> 00:05:15,440 fees. 63 00:05:22,540 --> 00:05:28,280 I mean, I guess that's something to think about when we're choosing, but you know what, 64 00:05:28,400 --> 00:05:29,840 if any money is made, I think it's good money. 65 00:05:30,200 --> 00:05:30,780 Oh, absolutely. 66 00:05:30,920 --> 00:05:35,940 Of course, the thing is, the hard work that young people do, and everything that people 67 00:05:35,940 --> 00:05:39,180 contribute, it's hard to see 50% of that go away. 68 00:05:46,440 --> 00:05:51,280 I have a motion and a second on the table, any additional discussion? 69 00:05:52,120 --> 00:05:52,880 All those in favor? 70 00:05:53,420 --> 00:05:53,580 Aye. 71 00:05:54,100 --> 00:05:54,820 In the Chair votes, aye. 72 00:05:58,530 --> 00:06:00,750 Okay, moving on to the Secretary's report. 73 00:06:02,050 --> 00:06:05,050 Looking for a motion to move that the School Committee vote to approve the following 74 00:06:05,050 --> 00:06:07,290 payroll warrants as printed in the agenda. 75 00:06:07,290 --> 00:06:12,530 They were warned 10.86, 10.87, 10.88, 10.94, and 20. 76 00:06:14,590 --> 00:06:15,250 So moved. 77 00:06:15,850 --> 00:06:16,770 Motion by Chris. 78 00:06:17,030 --> 00:06:17,230 Second. 79 00:06:17,690 --> 00:06:18,470 Second by Pat. 80 00:06:18,650 --> 00:06:19,110 Any discussion? 81 00:06:19,570 --> 00:06:20,090 Yes, Mr. Chairman. 82 00:06:20,270 --> 00:06:21,390 I'm going to recuse myself from the vote. 83 00:06:22,850 --> 00:06:23,370 Okay. 84 00:06:23,510 --> 00:06:25,470 How the recuses are self from this vote. 85 00:06:25,750 --> 00:06:27,290 I recuse myself as well. 86 00:06:27,970 --> 00:06:30,010 Seeing you will still have a quorum. 87 00:06:30,330 --> 00:06:31,250 All those in favor? 88 00:06:31,770 --> 00:06:32,130 Hi. 89 00:06:33,370 --> 00:06:34,330 Motion passes. 90 00:06:35,490 --> 00:06:35,810 Okay. 91 00:06:35,990 --> 00:06:37,830 Next item on the agenda is citizens' input. 92 00:06:37,830 --> 00:06:39,890 I'm sorry, anyone who wishes to be heard this evening. 93 00:06:41,930 --> 00:06:45,790 Seeing none, we're going to move on to select board input from East Brookfield and Spencer. 94 00:06:50,520 --> 00:06:55,840 Thank you, Mr. Chairman, and I want to thank you and the board for the courtesy you've shown me over the last 95 00:06:56,340 --> 00:06:57,920 umpteen years that I've been coming up here. 96 00:06:58,720 --> 00:07:01,980 Many of you know I'm not running for re-election, 15 years as enough. 97 00:07:02,720 --> 00:07:08,740 Actually, obviously the same number of years I spent on this committee when I was a couple of longer younger than I am now. 98 00:07:09,540 --> 00:07:16,480 I am running for town moderator, which doesn't involve as much being out at night, which my wife really is looking forward to. 99 00:07:17,100 --> 00:07:18,920 I think as I am, too, to a certain extent. 100 00:07:19,640 --> 00:07:22,060 But I did want to thank you for the courtesy you've shown me. 101 00:07:22,640 --> 00:07:23,720 It's greatly appreciated. 102 00:07:24,540 --> 00:07:31,180 I did want to talk a little bit about the upcoming override question that you folks asked us to put on the ballot. 103 00:07:32,660 --> 00:07:35,680 Jeff, I saw your posting. It's a home run. 104 00:07:35,680 --> 00:07:41,360 I've already seen it on Facebook and Jeff and I talked earlier today. 105 00:07:42,780 --> 00:07:49,120 If you want this to pass, okay, it's imperative that all of you with board members get involved. 106 00:07:49,620 --> 00:07:56,860 Be it posting on Facebook, writing a letter to the new leader, talking to your family who 107 00:07:56,860 --> 00:08:03,440 may live in town, your friends, your neighbors, impress upon them, the cuts that you have already 108 00:08:03,440 --> 00:08:03,720 made. 109 00:08:03,720 --> 00:08:09,220 All right, you're already bleeding and that you shouldn't, the kids shouldn't have to 110 00:08:09,220 --> 00:08:14,820 see the district bleed anymore because it directly affects them terms of the quality 111 00:08:14,820 --> 00:08:16,740 and of education that they get. 112 00:08:17,120 --> 00:08:24,180 It's important that people know that in 2006, which seems like an eternity, when I sat 113 00:08:24,180 --> 00:08:32,600 in Dr. Hawi's chair, we had a successful override, so as you may remember it, we needed a million 114 00:08:32,600 --> 00:08:38,720 bucks and we decided the board at the time in May that we wouldn't go for the whole 115 00:08:38,720 --> 00:08:43,280 million because at that point it would have been a dollar on the tax rate and we 116 00:08:43,280 --> 00:08:47,900 really felt and I really felt strongly that it wouldn't pass if it was that 117 00:08:47,900 --> 00:08:53,240 high. So we went down to about about about that one I mean about 45 cents little 118 00:08:53,240 --> 00:09:00,420 under 50 is almost a half million bucks and it passed but what we did there was 119 00:09:00,420 --> 00:09:07,400 a vigorous campaign by board members and teachers and folks in the community to educate 120 00:09:07,400 --> 00:09:14,120 the public about the cuts that already had occurred because we did have to lay several 121 00:09:14,120 --> 00:09:20,060 teachers off. I think that and the fact that it wasn't going to break the bank, it passed. 122 00:09:20,640 --> 00:09:25,020 All right, that's the first to my knowledge, the only override that's ever been passed for 123 00:09:25,020 --> 00:09:30,640 the school district. There's been debt exclusions for schools, but not overrides. So it's very 124 00:09:30,640 --> 00:09:36,280 imperative that you all get involved, and that you stress two people. That number one, 125 00:09:36,720 --> 00:09:42,620 the tax rate in Spencer is $10.98. Talk to your friends and relatives that live in other 126 00:09:42,620 --> 00:09:49,420 towns. You'll be hard pressed to find any town or city where they lower tax rate. Also 127 00:09:49,420 --> 00:09:56,840 stress that this is 14 cents on the dollar. That's what it's on for the tax rate. So for 128 00:09:56,840 --> 00:10:02,900 every $1,000 raised, it's 14 cents that will be added to the tax rate. Jeff, if you go 129 00:10:02,900 --> 00:10:08,500 to Jeff's Facebook page, he's outlined it beautifully about how much it's going to cost the average 130 00:10:08,500 --> 00:10:15,780 citizen depending upon how expensive their home happens to be praised at. So I can't 131 00:10:15,780 --> 00:10:24,580 stressed us enough. I lose my voice. Sorry. I've been doing this a long time and I tried 132 00:10:24,580 --> 00:10:27,880 it. We tried to get an override up an aspirin. I'm Westpister. When I was there, we did 133 00:10:27,880 --> 00:10:35,140 not get it. A few years after I left, it did pass. But sometimes you have to go back more 134 00:10:35,140 --> 00:10:40,900 than once. But I don't think you folks can afford to go back another time. You've already 135 00:10:40,900 --> 00:10:46,800 cut so deep and the public doesn't know that. Not not everybody watches this 136 00:10:46,800 --> 00:10:52,520 meeting or the select been meeting or you know a small number of people do. So the 137 00:10:52,520 --> 00:10:56,840 only way to do it is to get out there and get and let them know through the 138 00:10:56,840 --> 00:11:02,000 leader and through your your Facebook and whatnot. If you belong to Facebook just 139 00:11:02,000 --> 00:11:06,220 what it's going to mean what's already been cut and what it's going to and what 140 00:11:06,220 --> 00:11:13,000 But what this money is going to be used for when you go to them on May 12th and ask for their vote. 141 00:11:14,140 --> 00:11:15,420 Okay, any questions? 142 00:11:17,100 --> 00:11:17,820 Any questions? 143 00:11:18,920 --> 00:11:19,860 Okay, thank you very much. 144 00:11:19,940 --> 00:11:23,700 I'm going to leave around just before seven because I have another meeting to go to. 145 00:11:24,040 --> 00:11:25,780 I had one to four o'clock, by the way, also. 146 00:11:26,300 --> 00:11:26,900 Thank you. 147 00:11:27,980 --> 00:11:29,500 Thank you, Dr. Hexson. 148 00:11:29,620 --> 00:11:33,400 Thank you for showing up at all of our meetings to support the town. 149 00:11:33,400 --> 00:11:36,980 Make sure another voice is heard and help, like, teaching us all different things. 150 00:11:37,220 --> 00:11:37,500 Thank you. 151 00:11:37,680 --> 00:11:39,320 You're welcome, and I, it's been a pleasure. 152 00:11:39,460 --> 00:11:39,820 Thank you. 153 00:11:42,730 --> 00:11:45,850 Okay, moving on next item in the agenda, a superintendent's report. 154 00:11:46,770 --> 00:11:51,010 So, in the green folders, ladies and gentlemen, I've included the report for this month. 155 00:11:51,410 --> 00:11:56,290 I wrote it out because there was just so much coming at us very quickly from a number of different sources. 156 00:11:56,490 --> 00:11:57,610 So, I broke it out accordingly. 157 00:11:58,490 --> 00:12:04,110 Some of its in response to questions asked out of last month's meeting and then additional information I wanted to provide. 158 00:12:04,110 --> 00:12:12,770 So, to start, I'm very pleased to provide the following updates on the progress and achievements of this district as we head into the final quarter of the academic year. 159 00:12:13,550 --> 00:12:29,830 First off, I'd be remiss if I don't kind of highlight our emergency responders, police and fire, as we've had a number of different incidents within our school community from faculty and staff, having medical emergencies to students falling down and getting hurt. 160 00:12:29,830 --> 00:12:34,890 In every situation, our first responders and emergency respondents have been incredible. 161 00:12:35,310 --> 00:12:41,550 Along with our faculty staff and administration and being responsive, I can't thank them enough for their dedication. 162 00:12:42,310 --> 00:12:47,010 And continuous partnership support and commitment to working together to keep our schools safe. 163 00:12:47,890 --> 00:12:52,010 I will make clear safety is not a negotiable for us. 164 00:12:52,030 --> 00:12:55,750 We take it very seriously and it's not possible if we're not working together. 165 00:12:55,750 --> 00:13:05,930 In terms of 2026-27 registration and enrollment is now open for kindergarten and preschool and our numbers are really coming in quite strong. 166 00:13:06,610 --> 00:13:21,490 I encourage anyone interested to please visit our district website to complete your applications and material so you can register appropriately for kindergarten to be clear for the public at large who may or may not be watching at this time but seeing a recording later on. 167 00:13:22,170 --> 00:13:25,570 Eastbrookfield students go to Eastbrookfield, Spencer students go to Spencer. 168 00:13:26,510 --> 00:13:31,790 That's not something I'm going to be able to do anything about, and that's just the way it's going to be. 169 00:13:32,490 --> 00:13:34,690 Pre-school will be moving to the high school. 170 00:13:34,850 --> 00:13:40,810 There will be an informational meeting coming up on April 30th, that the preschool is looking forward to hosting. 171 00:13:41,090 --> 00:13:44,470 And there's a great deal of information about not only the transition of the high school, 172 00:13:45,050 --> 00:13:48,650 but the program itself and how it will be structured and organized for the public. 173 00:13:48,650 --> 00:14:00,150 I encourage anyone interested in enrolling their child and our preschool program to fill out an application, make sure it's on file, and to attend the informational evenings plan for the 30th of August. 174 00:14:00,990 --> 00:14:10,690 In terms of our enrollment, at the time I wrote this report, where 1,481 students enrolled within our district, there are 323 students enrolled at David Proudi. 175 00:14:10,990 --> 00:14:15,550 I don't know where 303 came from, but I assure you it's 323. 176 00:14:15,550 --> 00:14:20,130 Knox Trail Middle School has 408 wire villages sitting at 465. 177 00:14:20,330 --> 00:14:25,170 I do believe that's 30 over where it was a year ago and probably the highest enrollment it's had in some time. 178 00:14:25,890 --> 00:14:33,170 Eastbrook Phil Elementary currently has 271 students, including 118 students enrolled in the Cubs Corner Pre-School. 179 00:14:33,730 --> 00:14:37,230 In terms of personnel, a lot has changed in the month as I mentioned. 180 00:14:37,410 --> 00:14:41,450 We've had some adults get hurt, have health issues and the like. 181 00:14:41,450 --> 00:14:45,450 and this has created opportunities for the public to join our team. 182 00:14:46,030 --> 00:14:49,610 As part of professionals, substitute teachers, or substitute nurses. 183 00:14:50,250 --> 00:14:58,590 I will emphasize, right now, we have a dire need for substitute nurses as field trips are coming up this spring, with no sub-nurses, no field trip can take place. 184 00:14:58,590 --> 00:14:59,970 We need... 185 00:15:00,210 --> 00:15:30,010 Your involvement, engagement, and are happy to run a process. You can apply at schoolspring.com, and I would encourage anybody interested in a substitute nurse, substitute teacher or a professional position of please continuously check our website as well as schoolspring.com. In terms of the informational reports on your packet, Mr. Chair and ladies and gentlemen of the committee, those packets include the exact breakdown for enrollment for the month, personnel, 186 00:15:30,010 --> 00:15:31,990 and the principal director reports. 187 00:15:32,570 --> 00:15:34,450 These are all in your packets for your review. 188 00:15:34,830 --> 00:15:35,770 Should you have any questions, 189 00:15:35,790 --> 00:15:38,890 we have the entire leadership team here this evening 190 00:15:38,890 --> 00:15:40,430 to answer any questions that you have. 191 00:15:42,770 --> 00:15:44,610 Apologize, minus the academic affairs director, 192 00:15:44,690 --> 00:15:47,330 Chris she's at an event dealing with a grant. 193 00:15:47,790 --> 00:15:48,950 So I apologize, minus one. 194 00:15:49,590 --> 00:15:51,470 But everyone else is here to answer any questions, 195 00:15:51,650 --> 00:15:53,530 comments, queries, or concerns you have, 196 00:15:53,690 --> 00:15:54,650 ladies and gentlemen of the committee, 197 00:15:55,490 --> 00:15:56,370 related to their reports. 198 00:15:58,940 --> 00:16:01,100 I gotta give it to Chris, moving on. 199 00:16:01,480 --> 00:16:02,400 He did an excellent job. 200 00:16:02,400 --> 00:16:07,280 I've been kind of stolen some of my students' spotlight, but I have to say he did a great job. 201 00:16:07,480 --> 00:16:11,940 So I'm going to be even quicker with this portion of the report around academics and student spotlight. 202 00:16:12,600 --> 00:16:15,960 MCAS testing this spring is currently underway across the district. 203 00:16:16,340 --> 00:16:19,180 Please ensure that your child gets plenty of rest and needs a helping breakfast. 204 00:16:19,860 --> 00:16:23,960 Let's support our students in doing their very best on this assessment this spring. 205 00:16:24,740 --> 00:16:29,880 Senior Spotlights for 2026 have begun, our class of 2026. 206 00:16:29,880 --> 00:16:33,340 I'm letting us know their future plans for college career and life choices. 207 00:16:33,760 --> 00:16:43,260 As we learn their plans, I will continue to work with the high school and senior class to post that information on the live feed of the website and celebrate their decisions with them. 208 00:16:43,780 --> 00:16:49,740 Please take a moment to celebrate our class of 2026 with us as they approach this milestone in life. 209 00:16:50,000 --> 00:16:55,720 This is an exciting time for them and we want to continue to celebrate their success at this time. 210 00:16:55,720 --> 00:17:14,440 And as mentioned by Chris earlier, congratulations to Matthew McNeckle, my apologies, Matthew McNeckle, with thrilled to announce that as a senior here at David Prattie, he has been named the 2026 Worcester County Superintendent's Association Scholar, and has received a number of different accolades throughout his career. 211 00:17:14,440 --> 00:17:30,740 Congratulations on this, not easily obtained recognition, and I can't say enough great things about Matthew as an honor and privilege to have him attend with Mrs. LeFrenner and myself out at Holy Cross recently for a scholar luncheon. 212 00:17:32,280 --> 00:17:40,220 Project 351 ambassadors continue to do an incredible job with their projects, Victoria, Malrain and Cole Millgate. 213 00:17:40,900 --> 00:17:47,940 continue to demonstrate incredible service leadership and set an exceptional example as our 2026 project 351 ambassadors. 214 00:17:48,500 --> 00:17:53,300 And finally, I'd be remiss if I did not highlight the incredible achievements of our spring of flutics. 215 00:17:53,440 --> 00:17:57,460 I don't know what's in the water lately, but between track, baseball and softball, they're on fire. 216 00:17:57,860 --> 00:18:02,960 My hometown is still crying over the softball defeat the other day, which was a complete route. 217 00:18:03,640 --> 00:18:07,700 And again, it just speaks to getting the kids out and about and 218 00:18:07,700 --> 00:18:09,920 involved in our programs throughout the district. 219 00:18:10,540 --> 00:18:20,140 So kudos to our spring teams as they continue to be extremely competitive throughout what has been undoubtedly one of the most unpredictable weather condition type seasons and quite some time. 220 00:18:20,760 --> 00:18:25,400 One moment on Monday, it's raining, Tuesday, it's snowing, and the next minute, it's a hill storm. 221 00:18:25,640 --> 00:18:31,740 I can't make this weather up, but despite the incredible conditions earlier this season, they've done an incredible, incredible job. 222 00:18:32,940 --> 00:18:36,100 Questions on academic or student spotlight, ladies and gentlemen of the committee. 223 00:18:37,700 --> 00:18:41,160 Moving on, Desi, so I've been talking to Desi way too much. 224 00:18:41,760 --> 00:18:54,380 I appreciate their partnership and support, and really do know that they're coming from a place of care, but they are really working hard to make sure we're well informed about expanding opportunities not only for our students but our staff. 225 00:18:55,100 --> 00:19:02,600 As such, one of the deputy commissioners and I have been talking too much about the accelerated academy partnership work for more than six weeks. 226 00:19:02,600 --> 00:19:08,360 We have been working closely with them on this initiative to provide targeted support for 227 00:19:08,360 --> 00:19:13,200 student achievement and growth and we will be volunteering to take part in this partnership 228 00:19:13,200 --> 00:19:13,980 beginning this month. 229 00:19:14,240 --> 00:19:17,820 The timeline and information is in the green folders for your edification. 230 00:19:18,380 --> 00:19:24,200 I even boil down what is an FAQ quite frankly that has just got a lot of information in it. 231 00:19:24,860 --> 00:19:31,800 There are five key points regarding arguments, decisions and opening concerns that I would 232 00:19:31,800 --> 00:19:35,240 drive you to look at, and we've read it, leisure. 233 00:19:37,100 --> 00:19:41,440 The bottom line is this, it's an opportunity for us to kind of be a little more focused 234 00:19:41,440 --> 00:19:46,020 and purposeful and be collaborative in our communities of practice with like districts 235 00:19:46,020 --> 00:19:52,440 and unlike districts about what works with students like ours and neighboring communities as well. 236 00:19:53,160 --> 00:19:58,580 So the benefits are quite frankly, there are 80 prioritized LEAs 237 00:19:59,720 --> 00:20:06,520 aiming to accelerate student achievement through technical assistance, peer teaching, and learning, and grants. 238 00:20:07,480 --> 00:20:18,240 Participation is required for information sharing, and voluntary fiscal improvement supports with no accountability designations or adverse impacts on non-peticipation. 239 00:20:19,180 --> 00:20:23,160 This is a governor's priority as well as the new commissioner's priority. 240 00:20:23,780 --> 00:20:30,840 One year from now, Dessie's goal is to get rid of all districts that are in what they designate as receivership. 241 00:20:31,640 --> 00:20:34,540 One year from now, there will be no such thing as receivership. 242 00:20:34,640 --> 00:20:39,280 This will be the new model that the legislature is currently debating and discussing at this time. 243 00:20:40,080 --> 00:20:45,100 This is where the importance of getting involved will entirely becomes important for us. 244 00:20:45,820 --> 00:20:50,820 At one point, as all of you know, we were designated as in the bottom 10% of districts and 245 00:20:50,820 --> 00:20:55,560 Massachusetts, along with Northbrookfield, Westbrookfield, 246 00:20:55,700 --> 00:21:00,160 Webster, Southbridge, us, Oxford, I can continue. 247 00:21:00,520 --> 00:21:04,940 Recently, Kueh Bog was added to that list, along with others in and around our region. 248 00:21:05,780 --> 00:21:09,580 Dessie is looking to streamline reporting and technical assistance and supports. 249 00:21:10,180 --> 00:21:13,940 With the idea of hopefully integrating district improvement plans and 250 00:21:13,940 --> 00:21:17,960 some reporting requirements to offer school accountability status. 251 00:21:17,960 --> 00:21:21,480 and assist us in building capacity as a district. 252 00:21:22,540 --> 00:21:25,040 It is not going to be as a program 253 00:21:26,060 --> 00:21:28,380 absolved of having charter and virtual schools 254 00:21:28,380 --> 00:21:30,600 remain subject to existing accountability systems. 255 00:21:30,600 --> 00:21:32,560 That isn't really necessarily our lane, 256 00:21:32,820 --> 00:21:34,800 but they will be part of this as well. 257 00:21:35,420 --> 00:21:38,200 Districts with strong existing improvement plans 258 00:21:38,500 --> 00:21:42,200 may focus partnership, engagement on implementation supports 259 00:21:42,200 --> 00:21:43,500 and peer learning. 260 00:21:44,060 --> 00:21:46,220 What I can tell you is in the last 18 months 261 00:21:46,220 --> 00:21:52,700 Since we have gone from 18 to 27, and there's only 29 districts in the bottom 10%. 262 00:21:52,700 --> 00:21:56,540 So we are on the right path, ladies and gentlemen, in terms of our improvement work. 263 00:21:56,780 --> 00:22:01,100 As you know, our leadership team submitted to you as a committee some time ago. 264 00:22:01,540 --> 00:22:08,300 Plan you supported and endorsed and voted in support of where we would put in four academic coaches. 265 00:22:08,720 --> 00:22:12,940 We would put in ten interventionists with the use of Title I funds and 266 00:22:12,940 --> 00:22:16,960 have an academic affairs director and a point quarterback in all that work. 267 00:22:17,340 --> 00:22:22,700 As a result of our budget, almost all those supports and resources in that plan will be gone. 268 00:22:23,060 --> 00:22:26,960 We will have two instructional coaches this time, come September. 269 00:22:28,640 --> 00:22:30,840 That's it, that's what you have. 270 00:22:31,620 --> 00:22:38,060 The interventionist in Title One will not be in place at this time, I believe was sitting at four. 271 00:22:38,060 --> 00:22:42,620 This time next year we may be able to squeeze two or three and that's with some real hustle and work 272 00:22:43,500 --> 00:22:47,140 Recently we received a report just on Friday stating that the 273 00:22:47,800 --> 00:22:57,380 Impact from the census would bring us from 10% reduction in title one to 7% that is approximately a $30,000 cut to a district like ours 274 00:22:57,380 --> 00:23:02,260 I believe we will see title one at around three hundred and nineteen thousand dollars Mr 275 00:23:02,260 --> 00:23:09,060 and I have not had time to verify that information with Dessie, but I plan to do so in the next month and have it for you in the next meeting. 276 00:23:10,160 --> 00:23:15,220 So it's nice that we want to volunteer and get involved in these partnerships with Dessie and do this work. 277 00:23:15,740 --> 00:23:20,060 But as I said at Legislative Advocacy event yesterday, we can only work with what we have. 278 00:23:21,920 --> 00:23:27,240 And there are communities much like us and districts much like us that are doing it the same. 279 00:23:27,240 --> 00:23:31,260 We cannot be responsive to desi and unfunded mandates anymore. 280 00:23:31,980 --> 00:23:36,300 And I will be ultra clear and have said such things to the deputy commissioner directly. 281 00:23:37,020 --> 00:23:41,040 We'll do the best we can with what we're given, but we can't give you what we don't have. 282 00:23:41,400 --> 00:23:45,080 So if it means reports are filed in a timely manner, that's the way it's going to be. 283 00:23:45,820 --> 00:23:47,500 I don't know what penalty looks like. 284 00:23:47,700 --> 00:23:51,980 I don't know of a special ed jail or some penalty, but maybe they would hold 70. 285 00:23:52,200 --> 00:23:54,920 I don't know, but I do know desi is concerned. 286 00:23:54,920 --> 00:24:00,340 We've had a lot of dialogue about the work that we're doing, and they continue to put this partnership and 287 00:24:00,340 --> 00:24:03,380 an expectation on over 80 districts at this time. 288 00:24:03,500 --> 00:24:08,020 There are 240 schools out of the 80 districts, and 289 00:24:08,020 --> 00:24:09,400 to be clear with everyone in this road. 290 00:24:09,800 --> 00:24:11,040 So everybody's on the same page. 291 00:24:11,640 --> 00:24:15,540 Wire village and Knox Trail are invited and more like 292 00:24:15,540 --> 00:24:17,780 Valin told to participate. 293 00:24:18,880 --> 00:24:20,020 And it's not growth. 294 00:24:20,340 --> 00:24:23,260 The teachers are teaching the families off, they've done an exceptional job. 295 00:24:23,260 --> 00:24:29,220 the growth scores are out of sight so it isn't the growth it's the achievement we take students from 296 00:24:29,220 --> 00:24:33,080 every walk of life and we do the best we can with what we're given and they've done well but 297 00:24:33,080 --> 00:24:38,800 desi knows we can do better on the achievement side and that's where the work is so to have 298 00:24:38,800 --> 00:24:43,520 the resources cut the way we have in this budget I know it's not what anybody on this committee wants 299 00:24:43,520 --> 00:24:48,500 and not anything we'd ever advocate for but some of the lead to what Dr. Hicks mentioned under public 300 00:24:48,500 --> 00:24:50,900 a comment or good and welfare, I apologize. 301 00:24:51,900 --> 00:24:54,540 You know, time to get involved, time to get off the couch 302 00:24:54,540 --> 00:24:56,060 and really lean into this. 303 00:24:57,640 --> 00:24:59,600 And I can't tell people what to do. 304 00:24:59,900 --> 00:25:02,200 I have no voice in that, what for or against. 305 00:25:02,800 --> 00:25:05,840 But I just know, you know, you deserve to be heard. 306 00:25:06,160 --> 00:25:07,020 These are your schools. 307 00:25:09,460 --> 00:25:11,660 Dessie is willing to do their part in support of us. 308 00:25:11,720 --> 00:25:13,300 And I have said if we're gonna volunteer, 309 00:25:13,300 --> 00:25:20,800 here I would ask and truly encourage as the deputy commission as I spoke to have financial 310 00:25:20,800 --> 00:25:23,480 resource put behind this initiative in support of us. 311 00:25:24,100 --> 00:25:28,200 So you know that request has been made ladies and gentlemen, formally in writing as well 312 00:25:28,200 --> 00:25:28,980 as verbally. 313 00:25:30,360 --> 00:25:30,720 Yes, ma'am. 314 00:25:30,880 --> 00:25:31,340 I apologize. 315 00:25:31,540 --> 00:25:31,920 I see the chair. 316 00:25:31,940 --> 00:25:32,900 Well that was my big question. 317 00:25:33,140 --> 00:25:33,580 I mean, it's hot. 318 00:25:34,420 --> 00:25:35,700 Resources are going to be brought in. 319 00:25:35,860 --> 00:25:37,080 Shared learning opportunities. 320 00:25:37,280 --> 00:25:38,100 It's great to have resources. 321 00:25:38,120 --> 00:25:41,640 But if you don't have the staff to deliver whatever those resources are and it's a waste 322 00:25:41,640 --> 00:25:42,940 of time for everyone. 323 00:25:42,940 --> 00:25:57,140 money. Right. So they've been well informed. We've had excellent dialogue as I said. I think there's a lot of benefit to being a part of this because like districts and unlike districts districts. We can share practice with. I think it's important. We can be more collaborative. 324 00:25:57,920 --> 00:26:10,280 So there's some benefit there, but to what degree I don't have the financials grant money for staffing. So to that question specifically, if I may, Mr. Chair, there is an FAQ in your packet as well. 325 00:26:10,280 --> 00:26:12,560 But I asked to drill down on that specifically. 326 00:26:13,180 --> 00:26:17,480 They can't give us the answer to that until legislature passes this as a governor and 327 00:26:17,480 --> 00:26:19,380 priority of the legislature. 328 00:26:19,940 --> 00:26:23,040 There's no financial information behind this at this time. 329 00:26:23,460 --> 00:26:30,780 That's being debated, and I do believe, Gary, if I heard right yesterday, Wednesday tomorrow morning they'll be coming up with the House budget. 330 00:26:32,000 --> 00:26:35,600 So that's our next pass at knowing what's in and what's out for money. 331 00:26:36,360 --> 00:26:39,780 And that's what I'll be looking at with Gary and the team accordingly. 332 00:26:40,480 --> 00:26:46,800 So, again, mine's already there, but I've said you can only work with what we're given. 333 00:26:47,580 --> 00:26:51,700 So, I think that needs to resonate more with the power of the big. 334 00:26:51,940 --> 00:26:55,200 They've been more clear with the resources that they've been sharing with us? 335 00:26:55,280 --> 00:26:59,340 Out of the gate, they have a designated person that will be supporting the districts. 336 00:26:59,860 --> 00:27:05,200 Each district will be assigned a liaison from Dessie and they will be quarterbacking the resources and 337 00:27:05,200 --> 00:27:06,700 forming up cohorts. 338 00:27:06,700 --> 00:27:15,780 I think what types of research curriculum, instructional practices, assessment practices, technology, I don't think so, I would not expect that to be fair. 339 00:27:16,840 --> 00:27:18,980 But again, this is the work ahead. 340 00:27:19,940 --> 00:27:25,000 I boiled down, that FAQ is beefy, so I did the same thing you're doing, Mr. Chair. 341 00:27:25,440 --> 00:27:29,780 And what I try to do is boil it down into a few slides for everyone so you have the information. 342 00:27:30,340 --> 00:27:32,040 There will be more coming on this. 343 00:27:32,340 --> 00:27:37,260 We have a conference call with Dessie shortly as well as some meetings coming up with them 344 00:27:37,260 --> 00:27:42,520 and probably a day long virtual meeting or in person meeting with them depending on 345 00:27:42,520 --> 00:27:44,160 what we decide in terms of timing. 346 00:27:44,940 --> 00:27:48,900 The timeline for the project is also in your packet, ladies and gentlemen. 347 00:27:49,540 --> 00:27:54,300 So it's this yellow form for everyone and I'll hold it up. 348 00:27:54,300 --> 00:28:05,240 As you can see, this first survey is being taken back in March from Desi and Desi, you know, is like, hey, we're about to start collecting data and sharing data with you. 349 00:28:06,280 --> 00:28:10,300 LEAs in schools will then be expected by June 30 to complete a needs assessment. 350 00:28:10,680 --> 00:28:24,120 So what's nice about this, ladies and gentlemen of the committee, is it gives us an opportunity to provide feedback as a leadership team and operation to Desi in a really clear format and submit our plans. 351 00:28:24,120 --> 00:28:28,280 and start cleaning those up for, you know, 352 00:28:28,460 --> 00:28:29,480 just your improvement work. 353 00:28:30,400 --> 00:28:33,540 And all of that will go in by June 30th to desi 354 00:28:33,540 --> 00:28:34,340 for them to review. 355 00:28:35,020 --> 00:28:36,740 And they'll allocate resources 356 00:28:36,740 --> 00:28:38,480 according to where our data drives us. 357 00:28:39,560 --> 00:28:41,520 It may be more math, it may be more literacy, 358 00:28:41,820 --> 00:28:42,500 it may be a little above, 359 00:28:43,020 --> 00:28:45,800 but typically that's been essentially where it's gone. 360 00:28:46,560 --> 00:28:48,080 I don't think the work we've done locally 361 00:28:48,080 --> 00:28:50,120 is too far off of what they're going to be providing 362 00:28:50,120 --> 00:28:50,780 for supports. 363 00:28:51,260 --> 00:28:53,620 However, it's just not a lot of personnel 364 00:28:53,620 --> 00:28:55,280 now behind it at this time to be fair. 365 00:28:57,860 --> 00:28:59,800 As I said, this is information only. 366 00:28:59,960 --> 00:29:00,840 I wanted you to have it. 367 00:29:01,380 --> 00:29:04,140 Our SOA plan was due at the end of the month. 368 00:29:04,440 --> 00:29:05,840 It started at the beginning of this month. 369 00:29:06,080 --> 00:29:08,420 It was submitted around our early education and care 370 00:29:08,420 --> 00:29:09,560 and preschool programming. 371 00:29:10,200 --> 00:29:12,980 We right on target and did everything we mapped. 372 00:29:13,580 --> 00:29:17,560 And that proposal was submitted to Dessie. 373 00:29:18,100 --> 00:29:20,080 They were quite pleased with the fact 374 00:29:20,080 --> 00:29:25,380 In fact, they didn't need to remind us because when they did, they didn't really communicate 375 00:29:25,380 --> 00:29:29,660 that they needed an update, but we did a really good job this year getting it in way in 376 00:29:29,660 --> 00:29:29,860 advance. 377 00:29:30,280 --> 00:29:35,960 So it detailed our commitment to a closing achievement gaps and making sure we're providing equitable 378 00:29:35,960 --> 00:29:40,700 educational experiences in the early years, especially for our preschool young ones. 379 00:29:41,260 --> 00:29:43,200 And our SOA money is not a lot. 380 00:29:44,000 --> 00:29:48,320 Gary can clarify it's probably like 30 grand, 40 grand, give it a take, right? 381 00:29:48,320 --> 00:29:54,500 on any given year from S.O.A. and all that money is put into preschool ladies and gentlemen. 382 00:29:54,680 --> 00:29:59,980 That's what our plan said. We would do eight years ago, six years ago, six years ago. 383 00:30:00,000 --> 00:30:10,380 A couple of years ago, and now that is exactly the report I filed is, hey, every penny we use for that purpose. What is SLA again? Suit number two, yeah. And we get it on a whole 384 00:30:10,380 --> 00:30:28,860 harmless basis, which isn't like the urbans that needed it. We needed to have their count on sales adjusted. We only got the minimum. So that's that state of affairs. Any questions on those pieces with desi? Because there was a long month with them. To be fair. 385 00:30:29,580 --> 00:30:31,000 Any other questions we've got to add? 386 00:30:32,420 --> 00:30:32,760 Excellent. 387 00:30:32,980 --> 00:30:33,340 Thank you, sir. 388 00:30:33,880 --> 00:30:33,960 All right. 389 00:30:34,060 --> 00:30:35,520 Moving on, League of Innovative Schools. 390 00:30:35,840 --> 00:30:41,000 So, at the request of a few people, there was some questions asked to me about what 391 00:30:41,000 --> 00:30:41,680 we get for that. 392 00:30:41,820 --> 00:30:44,320 And Mr. Chair, I appreciated you asking that some time ago. 393 00:30:44,520 --> 00:30:49,000 So, I even, when I went out to Seattle recently, I said, well, now that we're inducted, what 394 00:30:49,000 --> 00:30:49,580 is this include? 395 00:30:49,880 --> 00:30:50,480 Like, what do we get? 396 00:30:50,760 --> 00:30:51,520 Like, how does this work? 397 00:30:51,780 --> 00:30:58,180 And I was very fortunate to be able to go to Microsoft, Boeing, Kent, and Isoquois School 398 00:30:58,180 --> 00:31:01,080 districts just to name a few to go see best practice. 399 00:31:01,320 --> 00:31:06,540 My focus in going there was to kind of look at CTE and things we could do different 400 00:31:06,540 --> 00:31:11,020 and better, but also kind of see if we're on the right path and validate our work here. 401 00:31:11,600 --> 00:31:13,680 Some nice takeaways from that experience. 402 00:31:13,880 --> 00:31:19,040 There's a lot of resources for our faculty, staff, administration, and the future through 403 00:31:19,040 --> 00:31:21,740 Google, Microsoft, as well as Power School. 404 00:31:22,640 --> 00:31:26,140 These are all vendors that we use currently and have used historically. 405 00:31:26,140 --> 00:31:29,920 So, it's not like we have to go reinventing a wheel, we already have it. 406 00:31:30,700 --> 00:31:35,040 There's a lot of excellent national work being done around graduation requirements, 407 00:31:35,440 --> 00:31:39,240 as well as the impact of AI on the field of education and workforce. 408 00:31:40,100 --> 00:31:42,120 That was another really nice takeaway. 409 00:31:43,180 --> 00:31:49,260 Something that struck me during the work that I want to highlight for you is the challenges that rule districts 410 00:31:49,260 --> 00:31:53,600 and people in the areas of math are experiencing nationally. 411 00:31:53,600 --> 00:31:56,340 That was something that kept coming up over and over. 412 00:31:56,940 --> 00:32:02,160 So no sooner did I get off a plane and literally land, I was invited and we were invited 413 00:32:02,160 --> 00:32:07,680 as a district to, if we had any interest in doing envisioning rural futures, there's a 414 00:32:07,680 --> 00:32:12,860 project that digital promises got a sponsor, they would pay for hotel, meals, and even pay 415 00:32:12,860 --> 00:32:16,160 a stipend to anyone interested in taking part in that project. 416 00:32:16,600 --> 00:32:20,420 The second one was professional development around math this summer. 417 00:32:21,200 --> 00:32:28,220 And this is on top of kind of doing some of the coach work that we already have taken on at the local level. 418 00:32:28,540 --> 00:32:33,380 It kind of validates and reinforces some of the work we've already undertaken on our own. 419 00:32:33,920 --> 00:32:39,060 And kind of gives us an idea that the work is solid. 420 00:32:39,540 --> 00:32:43,120 But this is districts from throughout the country. 421 00:32:43,360 --> 00:32:46,740 I mean, we're talking over 300 people in a room sharing best practice and 422 00:32:46,740 --> 00:32:49,360 and small large group and then share outs. 423 00:32:50,040 --> 00:32:53,720 So I think it's worth our time to work on this 424 00:32:53,720 --> 00:32:55,180 in terms of professional development 425 00:32:55,180 --> 00:32:56,660 if we have people who are interested. 426 00:32:57,340 --> 00:32:59,360 Again, they will pay for the math one 427 00:33:00,020 --> 00:33:02,400 for hotel, meals and a stipend. 428 00:33:03,120 --> 00:33:05,320 So that's what they're offering 429 00:33:05,320 --> 00:33:07,320 in terms of supports and resources. 430 00:33:08,140 --> 00:33:11,720 Recently, we've had opportunities with Hula Packard 431 00:33:11,720 --> 00:33:13,400 and the AI 2.0 community. 432 00:33:13,400 --> 00:33:18,180 I'm working with Microsoft on the AI policy work. 433 00:33:18,480 --> 00:33:22,740 They've been really helpful there in terms of us suggesting our acceptable use policy. 434 00:33:23,640 --> 00:33:30,240 Given some of the policy demands with cell phones and social media adjustment in law through the Attorney General and Governor, 435 00:33:30,780 --> 00:33:37,440 I think it's okay that we slow down a little on the policy work side for the moment until we get some clarity from our legal counsel. 436 00:33:37,440 --> 00:33:45,920 But I just want to highlight that there are some really nice opportunities with HP, Microsoft, Google, and Power School, 437 00:33:46,180 --> 00:33:53,260 Phinex, school year and beyond for faculty, staff, administration as it relates to how we utilize responsibly AI, 438 00:33:53,800 --> 00:33:56,080 as well as in the areas of math and literacy. 439 00:33:56,580 --> 00:34:02,340 So just because we may be losing some resources, there may be some other opportunities that we can realize. 440 00:34:03,560 --> 00:34:12,000 In terms of regional collaborations as well, recently, the superintendant Kwabin Regional 441 00:34:12,000 --> 00:34:16,760 School District, Colleen Muha and I jumped on a call of Central Mass Regional Planning 442 00:34:16,760 --> 00:34:24,300 Commission Committee, sorry, and so CMR, PC has been exceptional in putting together a 443 00:34:24,300 --> 00:34:25,300 horticulture survey. 444 00:34:25,300 --> 00:34:35,120 This is to look at possibly establishing a shared resource where we could do something with horticulture. 445 00:34:35,980 --> 00:34:42,460 I bring this up because there's no agricultural programming in this catchment area. 446 00:34:43,320 --> 00:34:49,760 And so there's clearly a gap in terms of the economic landscape for central Massachusetts that, you know, we need to fill. 447 00:34:49,760 --> 00:34:54,220 And our kids aren't going to not get the opportunities if they really feel that 448 00:34:54,220 --> 00:34:57,820 passionately about agriculture and a horticulture, they're going to go seek that out. 449 00:34:58,420 --> 00:35:00,880 So being that we're small and 450 00:35:00,880 --> 00:35:04,560 Quabin and Northbrook Field and Quaybog and others are small. 451 00:35:04,820 --> 00:35:10,800 We are looking to put in for a grant through CMR, PC and desi, as well as others to 452 00:35:10,800 --> 00:35:16,300 realize a program that we could create for the entire central mass region. 453 00:35:16,300 --> 00:35:21,260 And the survey currently in effect will run through the end of April, early May. 454 00:35:21,540 --> 00:35:36,680 I would encourage any parent, family member, or young person, student who has interest in horticulture, agriculture, animal science, veterinary sciences, environmental science and technology like we have here to please take part in this survey. 455 00:35:37,060 --> 00:35:43,500 Central Mass Regional Planning Commission will take all that data and share it out with all the local districts and 456 00:35:43,500 --> 00:35:46,660 and work with us to kind of put a proposal together to Dessie. 457 00:35:47,460 --> 00:35:54,660 And having Dessie involved at the ground floor is really helpful because it gives us a chance to not necessarily have it be ours. 458 00:35:54,960 --> 00:35:59,920 I know there were some members of the committee, including the chair who expressed some disappointment when I said we couldn't do it ourselves. 459 00:36:00,760 --> 00:36:05,180 And so this was the alternate path that the neighboring districts and myself kind of sought out. 460 00:36:05,680 --> 00:36:12,000 I really give a lot of credit to Colleen Mouha, she's been exceptional and wanted to form up a parent advisory group. 461 00:36:12,800 --> 00:36:17,240 And right now, we're looking at a tentative date sometime at the end of April, early May. 462 00:36:17,760 --> 00:36:20,900 As I get more information on following a parent advisory group for 463 00:36:20,900 --> 00:36:26,360 whole-to-culture or agricultural studies, I'll share that information once the survey data is been collected. 464 00:36:27,200 --> 00:36:31,020 I know that's a lot, Mr. Chair, so please feel free to ask any questions that you have. 465 00:36:31,620 --> 00:36:32,180 I apologize. 466 00:36:32,520 --> 00:36:34,000 No, if anyone has any questions, feel free to. 467 00:36:34,220 --> 00:36:40,880 Through the Chair, if I may, I know you mentioned they were going to be reaching out to all of the families. 468 00:36:40,880 --> 00:36:43,520 I'm guessing it's probably based on enrollment. 469 00:36:44,320 --> 00:36:46,860 People that have students in the current system. 470 00:36:47,180 --> 00:36:48,400 What was the timeline on that? 471 00:36:49,980 --> 00:36:50,820 Sorry, which one? 472 00:36:50,960 --> 00:36:51,380 For the survey. 473 00:36:51,900 --> 00:36:54,940 So the survey, they actually said they wanted it posted 474 00:36:54,940 --> 00:36:55,520 on the website. 475 00:36:55,680 --> 00:36:58,080 Any family member that's interested can go to the website, 476 00:36:58,300 --> 00:36:59,540 click the link and take the survey. 477 00:36:59,740 --> 00:37:00,900 Okay, so you have to visit the website. 478 00:37:01,680 --> 00:37:02,400 It's on our website. 479 00:37:02,600 --> 00:37:02,660 It's on our website. 480 00:37:03,500 --> 00:37:04,940 Yes, correct. 481 00:37:05,160 --> 00:37:08,360 Okay, homepage of our website is where people would go 482 00:37:08,360 --> 00:37:08,900 to access that. 483 00:37:09,000 --> 00:37:09,340 Okay, sorry. 484 00:37:09,340 --> 00:37:11,140 I miss my eyes, so there's something, you know? 485 00:37:11,520 --> 00:37:13,280 Nope, great clarifies, my apologies. 486 00:37:13,600 --> 00:37:13,620 Yep. 487 00:37:14,480 --> 00:37:18,580 So yeah, and again, if parents, families, or students 488 00:37:18,580 --> 00:37:21,420 have any interest in any of those sciences, 489 00:37:22,080 --> 00:37:25,120 animal science, veterinary science, horticulture, 490 00:37:25,520 --> 00:37:27,600 I'd encourage them to please take that survey. 491 00:37:28,060 --> 00:37:29,620 Central Mass has been exceptional to us 492 00:37:29,620 --> 00:37:32,100 in putting it together, and they want to support 493 00:37:32,680 --> 00:37:34,440 not just us, Spencer Eastbrookfield, 494 00:37:34,600 --> 00:37:36,880 but the neighboring community districts around us 495 00:37:36,880 --> 00:37:42,440 informing up a program, so there's opportunity there, and I will tell you, because that's 496 00:37:42,440 --> 00:37:47,320 the question I know it's going to come from, yes there's money, I asked. 497 00:37:47,900 --> 00:37:51,880 So there was grant opportunities there that would fund the research and establishment 498 00:37:51,880 --> 00:37:58,040 of the program, that's kind of part of the process, it would probably be three years in terms 499 00:37:58,040 --> 00:38:00,900 of getting it started to study and research and establish. 500 00:38:01,600 --> 00:38:02,040 Okay, 501 00:38:04,620 --> 00:38:06,580 if it's okay, may I move on? 502 00:38:06,980 --> 00:38:08,040 Okay, just check it. 503 00:38:08,320 --> 00:38:12,000 So in terms of the building project, our building project is moving at rapid speed. 504 00:38:12,600 --> 00:38:16,580 We have our next building committee meeting, April 16th, this Thursday at 6 p.m. 505 00:38:16,660 --> 00:38:17,160 at the High School. 506 00:38:17,360 --> 00:38:20,760 Community members are encouraged to attend for the latest design and construction updates. 507 00:38:21,600 --> 00:38:24,440 I am posting photos and updates as I get them. 508 00:38:24,620 --> 00:38:29,000 But it is steady progress now that we are behind, the bad weather is behind us. 509 00:38:30,580 --> 00:38:41,760 As a point of information, yes, I mean, part of the reason we were given three days waiver from Dessie is because of the building project in order to open on time in the fall and September 1st for students. 510 00:38:42,480 --> 00:38:48,800 Yeah, we needed to get the building in the district closed in a timely manner as we ended this school year. 511 00:38:48,800 --> 00:38:53,620 So, we met our time on learning requirements and I want to thank the high school administration 512 00:38:54,260 --> 00:38:58,900 at length, Mary and Sarah were exceptional in making sure we had our time on learning. 513 00:38:59,860 --> 00:39:04,160 In our 1,014 hours was accepted over the 990. 514 00:39:04,720 --> 00:39:08,440 Unfortunately, we didn't need the three days, so we made up one and a half of the four and 515 00:39:08,440 --> 00:39:11,360 a half and have been awarded the three days as a waiver. 516 00:39:11,960 --> 00:39:15,960 That's all good news, all good things because it gives us an opportunity to open the new year 517 00:39:15,960 --> 00:39:19,000 a fresh with a clean experience for the kids in the fall. 518 00:39:20,260 --> 00:39:24,280 So those are things around the building project that I wanted to bring forward this evening. 519 00:39:24,840 --> 00:39:28,340 There's a lot of things that have to get done though in those eight to ten weeks, 520 00:39:28,760 --> 00:39:30,840 and it's going to be a busy summer for the building team. 521 00:39:31,040 --> 00:39:38,520 So I'm excited for the work ahead, but felt it important to kind of bring you up to speed on that at this time. 522 00:39:38,900 --> 00:39:44,680 Anything specific please feel free to attend or ask at our next building committee meeting this Thursday. 523 00:39:45,380 --> 00:40:00,260 And for grants and innovation, I know there was a question on grants and how we were doing with them, so what I did was as a result of our recent meetings with Dessie, as I mentioned, I wanted to share the increased number of grant opportunities we have taken hold of over the past few years. 524 00:40:00,780 --> 00:40:08,060 In the amounts of money each grant has afforded us resulting in improved teaching and learning experiences and opportunities for our faculty, staff and students. 525 00:40:08,660 --> 00:40:14,760 Our district has been and will continue to remain aggressive in pursuing external funding sources to modernize our curriculum. 526 00:40:15,540 --> 00:40:22,520 Recent highlights include but are not at limit to and you can see this in the green folder in your packets, ladies and gentlemen. 527 00:40:23,020 --> 00:40:28,080 The fact that we have just recently been awarded grants for science leadership. 528 00:40:28,360 --> 00:40:33,220 Congratulations, I cannot say enough great things for Knox Trail Middle School in East Brookfield Elementary. 529 00:40:33,220 --> 00:40:36,300 for being awarded OpenSci of Massachusetts grants. 530 00:40:36,640 --> 00:40:38,920 These funds will provide high quality investigation 531 00:40:38,920 --> 00:40:41,480 and based science materials for our students. 532 00:40:42,560 --> 00:40:45,840 And most recently, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts 533 00:40:45,840 --> 00:40:49,440 put out an update which was totally unanticipated. 534 00:40:49,880 --> 00:40:53,700 We've been told we got the grant for about $194,000. 535 00:40:54,580 --> 00:40:58,520 And so in total over the three years, it is $194,000. 536 00:40:58,680 --> 00:41:01,840 But the specific breakdown of how it breaks out year by year 537 00:41:01,840 --> 00:41:10,100 and how we support our faculty staff in that work is mapped out for you in the grant report in your packets, ladies and gentlemen. 538 00:41:11,080 --> 00:41:20,320 I'd like to end my report this evening, and I know it's probably one of the longest ones I've given in some time, and I apologize, but I am this evening talking about budget and operations. 539 00:41:21,620 --> 00:41:25,960 Look, in response to the inflationary pressures and increased costs, this district has experienced. 540 00:41:25,960 --> 00:41:45,440 I want to thank the school committee, the leadership team, and the entire district for working together to land a number and certify a budget that will reduce, while reducing over a million dollars that expense from our operation, we truly are working to maintain and keep student achievement and fiscal responsibility at the forefront to be clear. 541 00:41:46,220 --> 00:41:56,120 We are going to remain focused on transparent processes that prioritize the classroom needs while maintaining fiscal responsibility. 542 00:41:57,160 --> 00:42:04,960 As a result of the FY27 budget, I want you to know, on the front page of the website, it is posted. 543 00:42:05,520 --> 00:42:11,680 It is accurate, and every number in there is spot on, so all the work is accurate or reflected. 544 00:42:12,580 --> 00:42:17,420 I couldn't say that at three o'clock, it was a mistake, which we caught, but I can say it now. 545 00:42:17,900 --> 00:42:26,400 So we welcome your continued input and feedback from our members of the community as we move to town meetings this May and June. 546 00:42:27,080 --> 00:42:30,280 In no way do I think this is a perfect budget, it isn't. 547 00:42:30,700 --> 00:42:37,060 I can assure you after meeting with the legislative delegation yesterday within many districts, school committees, 548 00:42:37,060 --> 00:42:41,540 these superintendents, business administrators, board of 549 00:42:41,540 --> 00:42:46,260 selection, and finance committee members, I can assure you no one's happy with the state of the union at the moment. 550 00:42:47,520 --> 00:42:51,060 So it is going to require all of us working very diligently to land a budget. 551 00:42:52,200 --> 00:42:55,740 And you know, have options available as we go forward, should we fail? 552 00:42:56,200 --> 00:42:59,340 And that is the work of our team and the work we're committed to doing. 553 00:42:59,820 --> 00:43:03,860 And I think each and every person for taking part in the process, it's not perfect. 554 00:43:03,860 --> 00:43:11,260 But where we can't do it alone, we need everybody pulling in the same direction and with that, Mr. Chair, I close my report and 555 00:43:11,260 --> 00:43:15,940 humbly turn it over to you and the business administrator for his financials. 556 00:43:16,760 --> 00:43:21,460 Thank you, Dr. Hawkeye. Before we move on, are there any other questions for Dr. Hawkeye on his report? 557 00:43:22,920 --> 00:43:24,500 Thank you. Thank you, Dr. Hawkeye. Thank you, sir. 558 00:43:26,320 --> 00:43:28,420 Gary, that was longer than any of your presentations. 559 00:43:35,300 --> 00:43:41,260 I would just like to start off and refer back to the budget to Dr. Harvey mentioned earlier. 560 00:43:41,440 --> 00:43:48,600 I'd like to thank Chris and the town of Spencer for funding our semen's payment through their capital process. 561 00:43:48,860 --> 00:43:51,260 That was a surprise when I heard that last night. 562 00:43:51,280 --> 00:43:52,660 That was a great meeting last night. Thank you. 563 00:43:54,500 --> 00:44:01,200 And just as Dr. Hicks had mentioned earlier, the budget is not the optimal budget for the district. 564 00:44:01,320 --> 00:44:02,940 We did make a million dollars worth of cuts. 565 00:44:03,300 --> 00:44:08,380 It involves teachers, some paraprofessionals, administrators, some non-teaching or 566 00:44:08,380 --> 00:44:13,080 non-payroll related costs as well, and some transportation. 567 00:44:14,000 --> 00:44:19,500 And there are plenty of things and resources that we could use at all the schools that aren't in this budget. 568 00:44:19,500 --> 00:44:26,400 So, just so people know the amount that we're looking forward is not an all-inclusive number. 569 00:44:26,720 --> 00:44:30,280 It's just to kind of keep our head above water, so I just want to say that. 570 00:44:31,460 --> 00:44:36,500 Last month, we talked briefly about the state of our current budget, fiscal 26, 571 00:44:37,020 --> 00:44:38,900 and that we did have some problems with that. 572 00:44:39,460 --> 00:44:46,700 So, you have some transfers tonight, and the transfers coupled with your approval for 573 00:44:46,700 --> 00:44:53,600 us to use excessive deficiency to fill some gaps, the combination of those two will fix 574 00:44:53,880 --> 00:44:57,380 the fiscal 26 budget going forward. 575 00:44:57,380 --> 00:44:59,980 So, I don't know if anybody has... 576 00:45:00,000 --> 00:45:18,720 Any questions on the expenditure report? I'll be glad to answer those. But again, the transfers take care of all the issues we had in the prior month's report. Using E&D takes care of some of the larger problems we had, like the additional electricity costs for the high school. 577 00:45:21,100 --> 00:45:28,680 Some insurance issues related to the new high school and so forth. There were issues with, we're seeing a rise in 578 00:45:28,680 --> 00:45:31,800 in substitute teaching costs. 579 00:45:32,160 --> 00:45:34,600 Some of that is because of maternity leaves, 580 00:45:34,880 --> 00:45:37,480 FMLA medical issues with employees. 581 00:45:38,240 --> 00:45:41,380 But nonetheless, it's kind of blown up over the past few years, 582 00:45:41,460 --> 00:45:44,080 so that's an issue that we continue to try to grapple with, 583 00:45:44,200 --> 00:45:45,860 but that's been fixed in this as well. 584 00:45:46,200 --> 00:45:51,200 Some good news in this is that we've got the new charter school, 585 00:45:51,760 --> 00:45:56,080 and school choice tuition came in in March, and they went down. 586 00:45:56,080 --> 00:45:59,580 So we're not paying as much as we thought we were going to pay this year. 587 00:45:59,740 --> 00:46:07,460 So we were able to use some of the surplus that that generated in those lines to fix some of the other things in the budget, so that was helpful. 588 00:46:08,020 --> 00:46:23,520 The only thing I will say that the part of the plan to fix this year's budget is means we're going to dip a little further into our circuit breaker funds for this year to handle some of the extraordinary special ed costs that we've incurred this year. 589 00:46:23,520 --> 00:46:32,680 which means we'll have less circuit breaker to start next year, but we're hopeful that the legislature will come through with a bigger reimbursement next year and 590 00:46:32,680 --> 00:46:35,780 they'll replace those funds that we're having to spend now. 591 00:46:36,760 --> 00:46:47,900 So I'll answer any questions on the expenditure report and or the transfers, again, the transfers total $297,102. 592 00:46:47,900 --> 00:46:48,440 All of us. 593 00:46:50,000 --> 00:46:55,100 Gary, we'll say, looking at the transfers and seeing that we were able to take from charter school tuition, 594 00:46:55,240 --> 00:47:00,600 normally we're giving two charter school tuition, only the past few years, was like a really positive sign for the district. 595 00:47:00,800 --> 00:47:06,420 Yeah, that's a result of the March enrollment, when the state gets that and they adjust what they charge us for 596 00:47:06,420 --> 00:47:07,720 the remainder of the fiscal year. 597 00:47:08,040 --> 00:47:10,240 That was the surprise to me as well, that was great. 598 00:47:12,060 --> 00:47:13,060 It did help a lot. 599 00:47:15,640 --> 00:47:18,740 With E&D, we have to get pressure from the town to use that, correct? 600 00:47:18,740 --> 00:47:40,340 We have to notify them of what we're spending and I have a letter prepared, so if you vote it tonight to send that letter out tomorrow, and they actually have 45 days to vote it or not vote it, but they typically don't act on it because it doesn't increase their assessment so they just let it let the 45 days run out and then it's approved. 601 00:47:42,300 --> 00:47:46,160 Okay. Any questions for Gary at this time about the transfers as presented? 602 00:47:47,360 --> 00:47:50,040 Okay, so if you'd like Gary, want me to take the vote on the transfers? 603 00:47:50,340 --> 00:47:51,840 Yeah, then I'll have to go into the E&D. 604 00:47:52,220 --> 00:47:56,300 Okay, so at this time, look for a motion to move that the school committee vote to approve transfers. 605 00:47:56,520 --> 00:47:59,760 I mean, amount of $297,102. 606 00:48:01,520 --> 00:48:02,300 So moved. 607 00:48:03,140 --> 00:48:03,900 Motion by Pat. 608 00:48:04,560 --> 00:48:04,940 Second. 609 00:48:06,280 --> 00:48:07,460 Second by Amanda. 610 00:48:08,040 --> 00:48:09,120 Any other questions on it? 611 00:48:09,120 --> 00:48:09,720 or discussion? 612 00:48:10,540 --> 00:48:11,620 All those in favor? 613 00:48:12,220 --> 00:48:12,700 Aye. 614 00:48:13,200 --> 00:48:13,620 Any opposed? 615 00:48:14,780 --> 00:48:15,340 Chair votes aye. 616 00:48:15,580 --> 00:48:15,760 Thank you. 617 00:48:16,200 --> 00:48:25,260 So, just to let you know, so we're looking for approval tonight or a motion to use $300,638 618 00:48:25,640 --> 00:48:30,800 of our excess and deficiency funds, and I'll read you what we're going to use them or what 619 00:48:30,800 --> 00:48:31,560 lines in the budget. 620 00:48:32,020 --> 00:48:36,160 So, $62,000 is going to go to our retiree health insurance, and as you remember, that 621 00:48:36,160 --> 00:48:40,300 That went up 66% in January, so that'll fill that gap. 622 00:48:40,900 --> 00:48:46,820 $43,354 for property insurance was a result of the new building and 623 00:48:46,820 --> 00:48:49,080 the increased cost of ensuring the building. 624 00:48:50,160 --> 00:48:54,120 $12,000 for district ground maintenance contracted services. 625 00:48:54,540 --> 00:48:57,420 That's some of the work we had done on the football field in the fall, 626 00:48:58,020 --> 00:49:00,080 when we were having trouble with the grass. 627 00:49:00,720 --> 00:49:04,820 And then that also reflects the cost of fertilization and some spring work 628 00:49:04,820 --> 00:49:06,040 that we're going to do up there as well. 629 00:49:07,400 --> 00:49:16,220 All the transfers in here for HVAC costs and every building and what that is is the 630 00:49:16,220 --> 00:49:21,600 energy management system that we installed to our Siemens project has not been updated. 631 00:49:21,920 --> 00:49:27,360 It's a software platform so we're on an old version and it won't be supported any longer. 632 00:49:27,840 --> 00:49:32,680 So it's $36,000 to upgrade that platform and that includes managing. 633 00:49:32,680 --> 00:49:38,540 It's the same software used for the high school so we got to enter into an agreement with them. It's going to be 36,000 634 00:49:39,180 --> 00:49:48,020 For the first year of the 24 for the second year and 20 for the third year. So without that it won't it won't work properly. So 635 00:49:48,640 --> 00:49:50,040 We should have done that sooner 636 00:49:51,040 --> 00:49:52,380 So that's part of that 637 00:49:53,800 --> 00:49:59,800 And then of course $136,000 for additional cost of electricity for the high school 638 00:50:00,460 --> 00:50:06,560 Because last year we did the budget, we had no idea that it was going to increase so much this year. 639 00:50:06,740 --> 00:50:11,120 So, 136,000 will get us through the rest of this fiscal year. 640 00:50:11,520 --> 00:50:19,380 And again, next year we had to put 217,000 in the budget, additional to cover next year's full year's cost of the entire building. 641 00:50:19,840 --> 00:50:27,240 So, we need a motion or approval to use $300,638 at excess and 642 00:50:27,240 --> 00:50:31,260 for the purposes that I explained. 643 00:50:32,280 --> 00:50:45,000 So, Garrett, no, if I may, at the, our last meeting we've talked a lot about the electricity on, like this budget, on next year's budget and the additional cuts we had to make to kind of still meet the number we want to share with the towns. 644 00:50:46,100 --> 00:50:55,620 Have we started the work with reach now to, like Steve and the team and looking at the energy management at the high school making sure temperatures are set appropriately. 645 00:50:55,620 --> 00:50:59,880 really AC is set appropriately and all that work. 646 00:51:00,340 --> 00:51:04,920 I think he's, I don't think, I know he's working with the colliers and 647 00:51:04,920 --> 00:51:08,680 the construction people to do that and they're all working their way through it. 648 00:51:08,800 --> 00:51:12,820 So we're hoping by the close of this school year, we'll have a handle on that. 649 00:51:13,020 --> 00:51:17,200 So when we open up the new school year, the system will be running efficiently. 650 00:51:17,720 --> 00:51:18,200 Okay, yeah. 651 00:51:19,460 --> 00:51:22,980 We're still in the process of training the high school custodians and 652 00:51:22,980 --> 00:51:28,680 Steve on the energy management system for the high school, so it's a kind of a work in process. 653 00:51:29,180 --> 00:51:36,280 Okay, so at this time, I'm looking for a motion to move that the school committee vote to approve the use of access and 654 00:51:36,280 --> 00:51:45,040 deficiency funds and the amount of $300,638 motion by Heather. 655 00:51:45,440 --> 00:51:45,960 Second. 656 00:51:47,040 --> 00:51:50,080 Second by, I'm going down the calendar. 657 00:51:51,300 --> 00:51:53,580 Okay, any additional questions or discussion? 658 00:51:55,160 --> 00:51:56,580 Okay, all those in favor? 659 00:51:57,100 --> 00:51:57,380 Aye. 660 00:51:57,800 --> 00:51:58,280 Any opposed? 661 00:51:59,040 --> 00:51:59,920 Chair votes aye. 662 00:52:00,200 --> 00:52:00,420 Thank you. 663 00:52:03,030 --> 00:52:05,630 Okay, thank you very much for your presentations. 664 00:52:07,530 --> 00:52:11,810 Okay, next item on the agenda is on an unfinished business. 665 00:52:14,330 --> 00:52:17,310 Okay, see you, no, no, no, it's unfinished business. 666 00:52:17,430 --> 00:52:20,930 I was just curious if we heard from Espreque Field and how they're going to support the budget. 667 00:52:21,730 --> 00:52:31,130 We have not, we have not, so my last conversation was, if I may, through the chair, sorry, real quick, my apologies. 668 00:52:32,110 --> 00:52:37,970 I did have conversation with Mr. Carpentier and finance about their approach. 669 00:52:38,510 --> 00:52:42,930 I think everybody's going to do what they can with what they're given and they're willing to try. 670 00:52:43,530 --> 00:52:45,510 That was how it was left in the last dialogue. 671 00:52:45,510 --> 00:52:54,630 I had had, we did go to Eastbrookfield and it had spent a sense of amount of time with the Finance Committee, I think they get it, and we're all trying to do the same thing. 672 00:52:55,850 --> 00:53:00,210 We've not heard back from board or any other membership on the town leadership side. 673 00:53:00,630 --> 00:53:14,850 That said, you know, we were a community reading day, and Mark and I found each other, and Mr. Carpenter and I found each other and just made a point of, if there's something they need of us, we're happy to provide whatever information or things that they need along the way. 674 00:53:14,850 --> 00:53:18,010 and we recognize this is a long process in a long road. 675 00:53:18,770 --> 00:53:21,190 So I think we have lines of communication 676 00:53:21,190 --> 00:53:23,250 that when they're ready to engage, we'll do so. 677 00:53:24,290 --> 00:53:26,930 My understanding at this time is that E.B. 678 00:53:27,130 --> 00:53:28,510 is targeting a June meeting. 679 00:53:29,250 --> 00:53:32,210 Now, I don't know when in June or what that looks like, 680 00:53:32,250 --> 00:53:34,710 but I'm expecting more information shortly, 681 00:53:35,430 --> 00:53:36,430 like later this week. 682 00:53:36,850 --> 00:53:38,970 So no indication of override or dead exclusion 683 00:53:38,970 --> 00:53:40,030 or anything like that? 684 00:53:40,310 --> 00:53:40,810 I do not know. 685 00:53:41,410 --> 00:53:43,130 I don't want to speak for the board. 686 00:53:44,330 --> 00:53:49,110 We gave an extensive amount of time and presentation with them and them with us. 687 00:53:49,110 --> 00:53:52,490 I thought it was excellent, I won't say it wasn't, it was excellent. 688 00:53:52,930 --> 00:53:57,550 And I think we did what we didn't spend so the night before and the next night we went 689 00:53:57,550 --> 00:53:57,850 to EB. 690 00:53:58,230 --> 00:54:01,670 And it was the same dialogue and conversation, it was very productive. 691 00:54:02,170 --> 00:54:05,730 That said, only a board can set that war. 692 00:54:05,970 --> 00:54:10,990 So I don't want to misspeak now, I can only give you what we got last year. 693 00:54:13,130 --> 00:54:15,050 Good question, thanks for following up on the other. 694 00:54:16,650 --> 00:54:18,810 Okay, we've been on any new business. 695 00:54:22,170 --> 00:54:25,230 Next item, committee comments, future agenda topics and meetings. 696 00:54:29,430 --> 00:54:32,930 I would just like to take a moment to thank Pat and Chris, 697 00:54:33,070 --> 00:54:37,950 because I believe this is their last meeting and both have been valuable members to the school committee. 698 00:54:38,770 --> 00:54:43,850 Chris, with your expertise at the town level and being on the finance committee is certainly coming handy. 699 00:54:43,850 --> 00:54:50,250 many occasions for us as a school committee and Pat is my EV partner. So it's been a great 700 00:54:50,250 --> 00:54:53,610 asset to the school committee. I'll miss them. I'll still see him a big while though. 701 00:54:53,690 --> 00:54:58,950 You will. Thank you both. You're definitely going to be missed, but I think you're still 702 00:54:58,950 --> 00:55:03,690 going to hopefully be able to support the towns and the schools in different capacity. 703 00:55:04,170 --> 00:55:08,790 Hopefully. Yeah, so good luck with that. Thank you. I just want to take a moment and thank 704 00:55:08,790 --> 00:55:11,690 Thank you, good thanks to everybody in the committee. 705 00:55:12,570 --> 00:55:18,290 Throughout my six years here, I really want to thank all the teachers, all the support staff within the schools, 706 00:55:19,270 --> 00:55:24,930 the administration, for everything you do on a day-end, day-out basis for the children's community. 707 00:55:25,310 --> 00:55:27,450 It is appreciated, thank you very much. 708 00:55:28,550 --> 00:55:32,770 And now Mr. Tudor, if I could, it's been a professional and personal pleasure for me as well. 709 00:55:32,950 --> 00:55:36,890 I've always been interested in education, I thought at one point I would teach, but 710 00:55:36,890 --> 00:55:42,410 having been away from it, and for a long time, and then getting a second round of parenting 711 00:55:42,410 --> 00:55:46,650 with a daughter to be back in and see the dedication of the district. 712 00:55:48,050 --> 00:55:51,470 You don't see that when you're outside of this zone. 713 00:55:52,170 --> 00:55:53,710 You don't see what goes on all the time. 714 00:55:53,850 --> 00:55:59,030 All the work that goes on, I mean, you all are the self of the earth people, so keep up the 715 00:55:59,030 --> 00:55:59,510 great work. 716 00:55:59,610 --> 00:56:00,230 It's not easy. 717 00:56:00,650 --> 00:56:01,270 I've seen that. 718 00:56:01,910 --> 00:56:04,750 But I've learned a lot as well, so thank you all as well. 719 00:56:05,670 --> 00:56:10,850 And again, thank you both and if there's always roles at the substitute level, should you 720 00:56:10,850 --> 00:56:11,610 do it? 721 00:56:16,850 --> 00:56:18,410 Any other comments? 722 00:56:20,190 --> 00:56:20,430 Okay. 723 00:56:20,750 --> 00:56:24,410 Next and last item for today is looking for motion to adjourn. 724 00:56:24,910 --> 00:56:25,230 So moved. 725 00:56:25,610 --> 00:56:26,270 Motion by Pat? 726 00:56:26,410 --> 00:56:26,670 Second. 727 00:56:26,910 --> 00:56:28,710 Second by Chris, all those in favor? 728 00:56:28,990 --> 00:56:29,190 Aye. 729 00:56:29,470 --> 00:56:30,230 And the chair votes aye. 730 00:56:30,350 --> 00:56:31,070 Thank you all very much.