Board of Education Meeting Highlights
July 22, 2024
Financial Update
Dr. Harrison presented a comprehensive overview of the district's current financial condition. The report revealed that ABSS exceeded its budget for the 2023-2024 fiscal year, highlighting the need for more stringent fiscal management. A pressing concern is the timely completion of local bank reconciliations, which has been flagged as an area for improvement.
Looking ahead to the 2024-2025 school year, ABSS faces a significant challenge with a projected $2.4 million deficit at the start of the year. The district plans to address this shortfall using state funding. Another financial hurdle is the underfunded status of the ABSS self-funded dental plan. In response, the district is exploring the possibility of introducing a deductible, a measure already implemented by several other school districts.
Adding to the financial scrutiny, the district's finances will be under heightened observation due to potential compliance issues related to mold remediation processes. This increased oversight underscores the importance of transparent and meticulous financial management in the coming year.
To develop the 2024-2025 budget, several reductions were necessary. Employee supplements will be based on the 2023-2024 salary scale, effectively freezing them at the previous year's levels. The Central Office will see staffing cuts as part of the cost-saving measures. In a strategic move, technology needs have been transferred to the capital budget. The district has also reduced its utility request by a substantial $1,447,000, with the understanding that additional funds may be requested from the Commissioners if needed. Virtual School technology requirements have been incorporated into the Technology capital budget to optimize resource allocation.
The Board approved both the final 2023-2024 budget amendment and the 2024-2025 draft budget, setting the financial course for the upcoming academic year.
Curriculum
In curriculum matters, the Board green-lit an educational field trip for Alexander Wilson Elementary School's 4th grade students. The excursion to the Coastal Plain of North Carolina is scheduled for March 24-25, 2025, promising an enriching out-of-classroom learning experience for the students.
Student Services
The Student Services department presented four items for approval, all of which received the Board's endorsement. A service agreement with BlazerWorks was approved to provide workforce solutions, particularly in sourcing licensed and certified staff such as psychologists and speech/language pathologists.
The Code of Conduct underwent a revision, specifically to Rule 10 concerning Bullying/Harassment. This update aims to strengthen the district's stance on creating a safe and respectful learning environment.
An agreement with IntelliChoice was approved to provide qualified one-to-one nursing services for students with disabilities, currently benefiting two ABSS students. Lastly, a contract with Communication Access Partners was given the go-ahead to secure educational sign language services, primarily for substituting sign language interpreters.
Operations
In operational matters, the Board approved the annual Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for School Resource Officer (SRO) services from six law enforcement agencies across Alamance County. Complementing this, the 2024-2025 SRO contracts for each participating law enforcement agency were also ratified.
A significant decision was made to engage Samet Construction for nine HVAC upgrade projects across the district, marking a substantial investment in improving school facilities.
Two 10-year joint use agreements with the City of Graham were approved, allowing shared access to recreational facilities. These agreements cover the use of the Ray Street gymnasium for recreational basketball and the athletic fields at Graham Middle School.
Lastly, the Board approved a proposal to demolish two 1997 mobile units located at Eastern High School, contingent on receiving no bids through GovDeals. This decision came after exploring alternatives, including offering the units to rural volunteer fire departments, which proved unfeasible due to high moving costs.
Personnel Report
Dr. Harrison presented the personnel report for approval. The report was approved unanimously.