Development News for Horseheads, New York

School District Mourns Loss of Long-Serving Teacher Steve Monks

The Board of Education recognized the recent passing of Mr. Steve Monks, a retired physical education teacher who served the district for many years. Dr. Douglas shared personal anecdotes about Mr. Monks' dedication to students and community programs, highlighting his tireless efforts and caring nature. The board observed a moment of silence in his honor, and condolences were extended to his family. Information regarding calling hours and services will be disseminated as it becomes available.

Board President Thanks Community, Welcomes New Members, and Updates on Key Committees

The Board President reiterated thanks to the community for supporting the budget and bus proposition with a supermajority vote. Congratulations were extended to newly elected/re-elected board members: Erin Shioone, Karina Unvarski (reelected), and Angie Finen (new member). The Ad Hoc Committee on School Start Time and End Time Issues continues its work, with the next meeting on May 28th and a special meeting on June 3rd for facilitators to present their report. The board also acknowledged the passing of Mr. Steve Monks, extending condolences. End-of-year celebrations, including concerts, sports events, and graduation, were mentioned.

New Intermediate School Principal Appointed; Board Approves HR Recommendations

The Board of Education approved personnel items, including HR recommendations (7.02). Board member Warren abstained on H1, citing a personal disagreement with a non-degree hire, despite it being within district policies. Following the HR agenda passage, Miss Kim Malone was welcomed as the new intermediate school principal, effective July 1st, succeeding her interim role.

Board Discusses Reserve Funds, Legal Services, Insurance, and Capital Projects

During the finance items for action, board member Katrina raised questions regarding the district reserve plan, specifically item 6.23 concerning debt service. She inquired about the increase in debt service and whether funds could be allocated to a healthcare reserve instead of the debt service fund, which can only be used to lower percentages. The Superintendent's office clarified that the debt service reserve is funded through specific mechanisms that cannot be allocated elsewhere, unlike a health insurance reserve which would require legislative exceptions and appropriation of general surplus funds. A discussion ensued regarding the figures for the debt service reserve, with clarification that the numbers should be from March 31st and that the $4.9 million figure is the correct current balance, with the report to be amended to reflect this. Additionally, questions were raised about RFP extensions for legal services (6.19), with confirmation that a full search for legal services will occur next year after five years with the current firm. The stop-loss renewal (6.20) was discussed, confirming the approval of renewal option one, which maintains the current level but increases the monthly premium by 17.3% for the district's insurance against high claims exceeding $400,000. The change order log for owner requests, specifically concerning Bridge Road parking lot improvements, was also discussed, with the understanding that the work was approved under the Superintendent's authorization due to potential cost increases if delayed and is funded through capital project funds from the contingency budget.