In last night’s school board meeting, members approved key projects, including a contract with Winger Companies for a $312,275 facility upgrade to the Howe HVAC systems, set to begin March 3rd. The 2025-26 school calendar was also finalized, with classes starting August 25th.
The board gave the green light to move forward with a three-year iPad lease for students in grades K-12, aiming to enhance classroom technology. Meanwhile, the FY26 budget discussion confirmed a slight tax rate reduction, with public hearings set for March and April.
Finally, an update on district technology from Brandon Ridinger, on improvements, completed the meeting.
Facility Upgrade Contract Approved
The board reviewed and approved a contract with Winger Companies for the replacement of the Howe rooftop units. Following a competitive bid process, six contractors submitted proposals, with Winger Companies offering the lowest bid at $312,275, significantly below the engineer’s estimate. Winger has successfully completed past projects, including the high school chiller addition. The board approved the contract and a notice to proceed, with work set to begin March 3, 2025, and substantial completion expected by June 23, 2025.
2025-26 School Calendar Finalized
The board finalized the 2025-26 academic calendar, incorporating minor adjustments based on recommendations from the calendar committee. The school year will start on Monday, August 25, 2025, with professional development scheduled for the preceding days. The calendar ensures compliance with the state-mandated 1,098 instructional hours, providing 18 additional hours of flexibility. The last scheduled day for students will be May 29, 2026.
Approval to Move Forward with Apple iPad Lease
The board discussed plans for a three-year lease for student iPads, covering grades K-12. While the lease itself is not yet finalized, the board approved moving forward with the initiative. The discussion highlighted the iPads’ role in enhancing Canvas-based learning, assessment security, and classroom technology integration. Board members also considered the needs of special education students and staff training on the new devices.
Correction to January Board Minutes
A minor correction was made to the January 13th school board meeting minutes regarding a previously approved modified allowable growth request. The original amount was misstated, and the correction ensures accurate records for submission.
Fiscal Year 2026 Budget Discussion
The board reviewed the proposed FY26 budget, which includes a projected total levy rate of $11.97 per $1,000 of assessed valuation, a slight reduction from the current $12.23 rate. Notably, no cash reserve levy was required, reflecting a stable financial position. Key funding allocations include:
- Instructional support levy: Just over $1 million, with a mix of property tax and income surtax.
- Management levy: $1 million, covering property, casualty, workers’ compensation, and early retirement costs.
- Physical plant and equipment levy (PPEL): $1.34 per $1,000, generating approximately $924,000 for facility maintenance and upgrades.
Public hearings on the budget are scheduled for March 24 and April.
Technology Program Updates
The board received an update on the district’s technology program from Brandon Ridinger, covering infrastructure, device management, and software integration. Board members attending remotely received presentation materials via Google Meet.