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Video-1: youtube.com/watch?v=K-FUXYbzQvM

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Good evening. I call the meeting to order at 6:20 on July 20 June 23rd of 2026. Can we please stand for the pledge of allegiance? >> I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the

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republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. Secretary Triplet, can you please call the role? >> President Robinson. >> Vice President Bowens,

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>> present. >> Secretary Triplet, present. Treasurer Gavin, >> present. >> Trusty Rocket Martin, >> present. >> Trusty Bradley. >> Trusty Do. >> Brother Vice President, a quorum has

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been established. Thank you. We are now at the point on the agenda of approval of agenda items. Is there any questions or concerns regarding the agenda for our special

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session board meeting? Is there a motion on the floor? Can I have a motion to approve the approval of the agenda? >> I so move. >> A second. It's been moved by Secretary Triplet and supported by Trustee Rakette. Is there any questions

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or concerns? No. Okay. Can we please call for the vote? >> Vice President Bowens, >> yes. >> Secretary Triplet, yes. >> Treasure Gavin, >> yes. >> Trusty Racket Martin, >> yes. >> Trusty Doyle, >> yes. >> Motion carried.

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>> Thank you so much. We are now at the section of our board of education norms for Bitten Harbor area schools. We will treat each other with respect. We will listen to learn. We will refrain from side conversations. We will use our time wisely, starting and ending our meetings

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on time. We will challenge ideas, not people. We will ask questions when in doubt. There will be no surprises at the board table. We will practice the seven norms of collaboration. Thank you. Those norms are pausing, paraphrasing, posing questions, putting

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ideas on the table, providing data, and paying attention to self and others, and presuming positive intention. Thank you. We are now at the section for public comment. Is there anyone on the public comment that would like to do

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public comment right now? Would you like for me to read? Oh, sorry. Yes. And before you come, I'm going to read the state. Go ahead. Come on. I'm going to read the statement while you're preparing. The Bitten Hover Area Schools Board of Education recognizes the value

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of public comment on educational issues and the importance of allowing members of the public to express themselves on district matters. Today, there are two areas for comment on the agenda, of which you may decide when to speak. Public comment on agenda items in open public comment. We request that each

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interested participant complete a public participation form using legible writing to ensure that the responses are appropriate and properly used. Per Bitten Harbor area schools bylaw 0167.3 which governs board participation at the

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board meeting. We request that you preface your comments with your name, address, and group affiliation when appropriate. Each statement made by a participant shall be limited to three minutes. a three-minute duration. And per our bylaws, no participant may speak more

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than once on the same topic until any other person has had the opportunity to speak on that topic. Participants may remove their mask when addressing the board. Participants should direct all comments to the board and not to the staff or other participants. The board will listen and take comments and

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questions under advisement and will not respond at this time. I, as vice president, will refer your questions to the superintendent for research and response. Please ensure that your public participation form includes your contact information as requested. If you have

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any questions for the board or executive team that require followup, please email those directly to Secretary.bhas.org. Thank you. You may go. You have three minutes. Can you >> praise God almighty God is one God and

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he will fight for us. Dr. Shopan here Swahili instructor for the Benton Harbor High School. I appreciate the school's investment in the Swahili program. This is a followup from last board meeting. I just

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completed the last certification requirements and I am now just waiting to pay for the teacher certification. So when the new school year begins, my name can be added to the list of those very hardworking colleagues of mine striving for certification. If you want to

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congratulate me, you say hunger shopen. Dr. Chopan and I will say back to you individually asant

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asantana as a group. I offered the board free Swahiti lessons and I intend to follow up with information via email as mentioned, but I would like to take a quick moment to acknowledge the interest of trustee Raquette first

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because she made sure to say publicly that she's interested in the Swahili lessons. Swahili learners are strongly encouraged to pick a Swahili name for themselves. All sto all all students love this part of the class. This practice is in the name of

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restorative justice, returning what was lost through cultural oppression and the transatlantic slave trade. Trustee Rocket, her name is Stephanie. Stephanie is Greek and it means crown.

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It's from the word Stefanos. This name is a symbol of honor, glory, and victory. Trustee Rocket, I do not know your family background. I do not know the story of your people, but if it is the same as mine, it is where your ancestors

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lost their name. >> Please accept the following Swahili name as a restorative practice act in honor of our ancestors and those who sacrificed their lives in the middle passage. I have chosen three names for you. If you do not like the choices, you

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are invited to to pursue personally the task of reconstructing a lost culture and do not stop at a Swahili name. Because of DNA tests, I have chosen for myself an Ebo name, a Hebrew name, and I'm about to secure me a name from

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Sierra Leon. The names are the first one is tiara. >> Tiara and it means crown. Tiara it means crown.

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The next one is taji. Taji. It means championship. And the next one this is my favorite one. It's kishada. Kishada. While it means kite, it implies that you

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are a person who uplifts others. You navigate life's storms and you're able to stay grounded while dreaming big. I wish you the best and if God willing, we will see each other in Swahili classif. Hallelujah.

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>> Thank you. >> Thank you. Is there anyone else for public comment on board agenda items? Therefore, being no further comments, we are now at the agenda and I apologize. Um, Superintendent Griffin, we're at

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your section. Sorry, I was >> Thank you, Vice President Bolings. I'm going to start going right through our U board hearing document. Not that the presentation, I'm sorry,

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the presentation portion. This executive summary presents the proposed Benh Harour Area Schools budget for fiscal year 2026 2027. The budget is designed to support academic growth, student well-being, and operational

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stability while responding to the financial realities of declining enrollment and the expiration of federal ESR relief funds. The proposed plan prioritizes resources that directly support teaching and learning, including

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core academic programming, student support systems, staff recruitment and development, school operations, and safe, well-maintained learning environments. It is also it also reflects a commitment to responsible stewardship by aligning

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expenditures with the district's strategic priorities, monitoring long-term financial stability and preserving transparency in how public funds are invested. This budget is more than a financial document. It is a statement of the district's values and

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direction. It is intended to sustain progress, protect essential services and pos and position Venton Harour area schools to deliver high quality educational experiences that prepare every student for a success in school,

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career, and life. Our vision Benon Harour Area Schools is committed to the best in academics, athletics, and the arts. Mission. The mission of Benson Harbor Area Schools is to educate, guide, and inspire students by developing their skills and knowledge to

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be globally competitive. We believe every student deserves access to a highquality, engaging, and affirming education. Student success is strengthened through strong partnerships among schools, families, and the community. Effective teaching, strong

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leadership, and continuous professional growth are essential to improved student outcomes. Safe, supportive, and well-managed schools are necessary for academic success, success, and personal well-being. Fiscal responsibility is a

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critical part of honoring public trust and sustaining opportunities for students. Last but not least, education should prepare students with the knowledge, character, and skills needed for college, career, and civic life in the 21st century. Our goal states

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academics, of course, to increase student achievement through rigorous instruction, targeted supports, and continuous improvement in teaching and learning. learning environment. Strengthen a positive district culture through consistent implementation of

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systems and supports that address academic, behavioral, social, and emotional needs. Personnel and leadership recruit, develop, support, and retain talented staff and leaders committed to excellence for every

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student. Facilities and operations. Maintain safe, efficient, and fiscally responsible operations that support high quality learning environments. Communication. Engage students, families, staff, and

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community stakeholders through clear, timely, and transparent communication. And of course, our introduction purpose and importance. The purpose of this budget plan is to align district resources with the educational priorities of Ben Harbor area schools

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and to ensure that every dollar is used strategically in support of students, staff, and schools. This plan reflects the priorities of district leadership and the board of education by balancing instructional needs, operational demands, and long-term fiscal

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responsibility. A well-developed B budget is essential because it translates district goals into action. It communicates how Ben Harbor area schools will invest in student achievement, talent development, school climate, and organizational

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effectiveness while remaining accountable to the community it serves. Overview of the current situation. Ben Harbor Area Schools is developing this budget in a period of transition and careful planning. The district continues to face enrollment decline and the

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expiration of ESSER funds which require a more disciplined approach to sustaining programs and services that were previously supported by temporary federal dollars. At the same time, the district remains focused on strengthening academic outcomes,

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improving student support, and preserving safe and effective school operations. The fiscal year 2026 2027 budget is intended to address these realities with a balanced approach that is student centered, transparent, and

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grounded in responsible financial decisionmaking. At this time, I'll turn it over to my colleague. >> Well, before we go any further, I I'm sorry to interrupt. We're going to try to get this screen on so the public can watch. Um, and Trustee Treasurer Gavin

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had her hand up. Sorry. >> Yes. Thank you. Uh with this being a budget hearing and uh we have a responsibility to make sure that the public has a copy of these documents. How can we make sure is it available online? Do they are there any copies?

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>> Um where can the public find these documents? >> The agenda is now uh the links are now for anyone with the link. So the public should be able to access it through the link on the agenda. Please let me know

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if it's not available. So through the Ben Harberry Schools page, the care to view the agenda. Okay. Okay. This is good. Thank you. It's at the top. All right. Just in case some folks may be new to

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this process, they might need to know where to find it. We don't have any copies, do we? Uh, no. I provided a a copy for each board member, but I don't have any copies available for the public at this time. >> Okay. It'll be available on the screen.

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>> Yes. And once it's voted, um, it is a part of our, um, transparency report. Okay. >> Thank you. I'll turn it back over to you. Um, Vice President Bowens, >> I'm sorry. And Dr. Griffin, it's I apologize. I just wanted everybody in

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the public to see it. >> That's okay. We'll just >> look to bring Foundation on >> And it's a little delay. I don't even see my mouse, but I

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see it on TV. So you got to go back to the other part. Go back to the other. >> Yeah. Thank you. Sorry. Thank you. And what page did you say? >> Right there. Foundation allowance right

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there. Yep. Number three. >> Thank you. >> Thank you, Mr. Mark. I'll turn it over to you at this time. >> Foundation allowance. Current allowance with historical reference. The state foundation allowance is the

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district's major source of revenue which has established I'm sorry which was established in 1994 through proposal A. Below is the table of the historical foundation allowance since proposal A along with the summary of the

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government's proposals for the 2627 school year. The 2627 proposal from our state uh government foundation allowance per student is currently $10,50.

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There's a 2.5 increase at the state that would change that amount by $250 per student. The 2627 proposed foundation allowance is 10,300 per student.

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Below that is the historical strands of the trends of the foundation allowance according to school year. [cough and clears throat] And on the next next page shows the exact amounts of the foundation

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allowance from 2014 up until now. This budget is moving forward with the assumption that the foundation allowance of 10,300 per student will be the executive branch's recommendation. Student enrollment, district enrollment

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continues to decline as the historical trend in the state FTE, that's fulltime equivalent students. The state aid FTE reflects a steady multi-year reduction in the number of

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students served. The chart shows enrollment decreasing from 2,668 students in 2020 2013 2014 to 1,24 students in 2526

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with only brief periods of modest stabilization and overall longterm downward trajectory. This pattern has important budget implications because enrollment directly

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affects state aid revenue and the district's capacity to sustain programs and staffing levels over time. For fiscal year 2026 27, the budget assumes that the state FTE of 1,195

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based on the projected blend of fall 2025 and spring 2026 count [snorts] periods and consideration of the school of choice application activity. The district's enrollment assumption is intentionally cautious and reflects the

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need to align expenditures with the current revenue conditions. As a result, the budget is built to balance academic priorities and operational needs while responding prudently to continued enrollment pressure.

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Paul have anybody that can run this so we can read this? We don't know where you are on here. Like technology from your table that as you're going through the screen. >> Um I can stand at the uh I don't know

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is there a cord to that screen? How are you casting to that screen? But if I can't cast um remotely. Okay. Go ahead. Oh, same thing. Okay. Thank you.

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Disconnecting. >> Yeah. If you know anyone from technology here, uh Jeff was here. I'm not sure where he is now. Go ahead. Sorry. Sorry. Okay. >> Cuz I can sit over there. It'll be

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better for me to just plug in. Let me just sit over there. Do you want me to reread the student enrollment section where we left off? >> You could start from the beginning so the public can see it and be able to follow up this screen that they're watching. I haven't been able to. I just

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been looking trying to find stuff. >> Okay. >> You want me to reread this section? I >> No, ma'am. Heard that. I'm just looking at the screen for them. found. >> Okay. Um, we're at the foundation allowance number three.

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Current allowance with historical reference. The state foundation allowance is the district's major source of revenue which has est which was established in 1994 through proposal A. Below is a table of

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the historical foundation allowance since proposal A along with the summary of the government's proposals for 2627. The 2627 proposal of foundation allowance per student.

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The current amount is 10,50 per student. The executive branch of the state government is proposing an increase of 2.5% which is $250 per student. And the appro

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proposed foundation allowance for 2627 is 10,300 per student. Next, there is a graph showing the foundation allowance per school year. and how historically that has increased

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over the years. Next, we have a chart showing the year and the foundation allowance and the increase or decrease amount. This budget assumption for 2627 is according to the executive

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recommendation of the foundation allowance increasing to 10,300 per student. Number four, student enrollment. District enrollment continues to decline and the historical trend in state aid FTE

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FTE means fulltime equivalent students reflects a steady multi-year reduction in the number of students served. The chart shows enrollment decreasing from 2,668 students in 2324

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to 1,24 students in 2526 with only brief periods of modest stabilization and overall long-term downward trajectory. This pattern has an important budget

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implications because enrollment directly affects student aid revenue and the district's capacity to sustain programs and staffing levels over time. For fiscal year 2627, the budget assumes

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a state aid FTE of 1,195 based on the projected blend of the fall 2025 and spring 2026 counts count periods and consideration of school of choice application activity.

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The district's enrollment assumption is initially, I'm sorry, intentionally cautious and reflects the need to align expenditures with current revenue conditions. As a result, the budget is built to

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balance academic priorities and operational needs while responding prudently to continued enrollment pressure. his school historical trend. >> Director Brocker, Secretary Chair has a question.

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>> So this so what you just read is for the uh the fiscal year. >> Yes. And here are the historical trends of our state FTE amounts over the years. The first is a chart of the amounts and

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then you have the actual numbers down below. budget assumption for 2627 per pupil state FTE at 1,195 on the 90% 10% split for the fall 26

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spring 26 I mean I'm sorry fall 25 and spring 26 count we also considered the number of school of choice applications received revenue sources the 2026 revenue expectations are as

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follows Local revenue $8,000 I mean sorry $8,944 I'm sorry 8,944,131 I'll repeat. Local revenue 8,944,131. State revenue 10,719,161. Federal revenue 4,718,824.

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incoming transfers and others. 419,000 for a total revenue budget expectation for 2627 at 24,81,116 expenditures. The 2026 27 expenditure projections for

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personnel salary and benefits 15,987,562 capital expenditures 1,378,258 other 135,399 purchase services 11,54,400 4 and supplies $1,384,224 for total expenditure projections for

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2627 at 30,389,847 general fund by function code. The first column shows our fiscal year 2425 audited amounts. The second column shows year to

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date as of 531 2026. And the third column shows our physical year 2627 budgeted amounts. And as stated earlier, the projected revenue for 2627 is 24,81,116.

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The total expendit expenses projected for 2627 is 30,389,847. And based on that information, we are looking at a fund balance at the end of 2026 27 at 10,989,133.

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The highlights of the general fund budget assumes a $250 per student increase in the state foundation allowance and continue reduction in the district's blended student enrollment. Michigan Department of Education requires at least 5% of unrestricted

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revenue as a fund balance. Next, you'll see the fund balance. >> Excuse me. >> Um, yes. [snorts] Director Brock Carter, could you translate that into a dollar amount? Uh, the 5% of unrestricted

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revenue. Yes, please. I need to grab Just for clarification, that will be our unrestricted revenue. So that will be mostly our local and state aid. Our federal revenue is from grant funds and

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normally that is restricted to only um those grant expenses. You were saying the fund balance there was a 5%. >> Yes, I'm doing that calculation. I just want to kind of give a preface on the numbers that I'll be using to calculate

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that 5% will be our local and state revenue because our federal revenue is normally restricted. Okay. So, um 5% of our um restricted funds for 2627 is 9,480,89.

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>> Question. >> Thank you. Yes. >> Okay. So 24 25 24 million 97,514. Okay,

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>> correct. So that last year there was a $9 million drop of that you said the the fund balance you have projected 2526

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you finished this fiscal year and so are you saying that it dropped $9 million >> I'm saying >> close to 8 million. Yes, that is the projected amount. We'll know the exact amount after our audited financial

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statements, but um my estimated projection is going to show us about 7.8 million deficit for 2526. You know when you say that word deficit

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I I guess I I need to look at this int and in and intensely and because from 25 to 27 so we spent an additional $14 million over budget according to your

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projection. No. >> 2625 that we would have. >> Well, yes. In 2620 with both. Yes. With the 7 million deficit for 2526 and the additional deficit that's proposed for 2627.

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Yes, that is correct. That's a combination of both that will take us to the 10 million. So, do you have uh in this budget specifically what the additional um $14 million was spent on step by step

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or can you don't have to do that right now, but that's something that we need to know because that's huge. Yes, I will be able to tell you exactly um >> after our audited financial statements

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because that is just a projection after our audit. It may not be as much as anticipated. So I want to make it clear that that is a projected amount. It has to be finalized for by our auditors before it can be considered

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uh the fund balance. >> Yeah, that's that's very concerning. $14 million and I don't know what for. Um I I can't see it. I can't see anything that would even be close

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to $14 million. And if it's projected 10, some have to cease and desist. So I would like that clarification on that as soon as possible. Will you have that information? Um, our audit usually is done in

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September. Um, so I can have that information as early as October. Um, cuz I don't want to give you the wrong information or anything projected that's not the final numbers. >> Right. So you got projected for 256

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and then you done projected it. It it it it's that we over spent uh supposedly or we've overspent um that much money. >> That's correct. Based on our projected revenue.

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>> Okay. So, director Black Carter on purchase services, what is exactly is purchase services? That would be our edges staff employees and any other contracts that we have in the district. >> And can you repeat that amount that

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we're using on purchase services? >> The budgeted amount for 2627. >> Yes. >> Sure. 11,54,44 >> and those are required. Are those required or >> uh each position is different. I'm not

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going to say that it's not required. Um but um it's most of it is EDU staff and then any other contracted services that we may do as such as um a repair to something and

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we hire a contractor instead of using our own staff that is also a purchase services. >> Thank you. >> I got another question. Sure. >> Sir, Trusty Gavin had her hand up. >> Just wondering about the time being that

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our next meeting starts at 7 and it's 6:57. What adjustments will we need to make in order to accommodate the board questions and the uh community questions? >> Half an hour late, so we could extend it to half an hour.

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I'm I'm asking in terms of us having a scheduled work session like what do we need to do to make sure >> that we are within policy >> at 7 o'clock. So do we need to reschedule this or >> but if you were a half an hour getting

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set up we probably have to we need that half an hour. We can't just blow this off. This is a this this is um this must be done today >> by law. >> So we need to be able to go through sir

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have an extended half an hour whatever time we lost. >> I'm good with whatever. I'm just wondering what what policywise legally wise what do we have to do to accommodate your request? That's all I'm asking. >> I don't think there's anything we just

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finished about. So we can just go over and start our other meeting. >> We'll start we need to start at 7:20 at the other meeting. >> Okay. >> And we each get two minutes to ask questions and allow director Brett Carter to finish the presentation and

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then we'll ask questions. So if you have a question, write it down and we'll we let's get it quick and then. Sorry. And I apologize. No problem. Um

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the fund balance history chart is next. So as you can see 2014 25 we were quite negative fund balance. We increased quite a bit and now it's trajecting down.

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That is for the general fund. Next is the syncing fund budget for 2627. We are pro we are uh projecting $2.5 million in revenue to the syncing fund and $2 million in expenses.

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That would give us a $500,000 increase in the fund balance or the syncing fund. And the scing fund is projected to end at 2627 at $8,215,995. The food service fund is projected to

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have revenue of 1,370,000 and expenses of the same with the zero change in the fund balance. and the fund balance in the full service fund will end at $25,762. Student activity funds,

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we would like to increase our fundraising efforts throughout the district. So, we are projecting a revenue of $5,000 and expenses of $25,000 because we would also like to put a put

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policies in place so that our student body staff know how to access student activity funds and are spending student activity funds on student activities. So that's why we are projecting to spend

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25,000 in expenses with a decrease of 20,000 in the student activity fund which would still leave the fund balance at the end of 2627 at $76,975. I'll turn it back over to Dr. Griffin.

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In conclusion, the fiscal year 2026 2027 budget reflects a deliberate effort to align district resources with Ven Harour Area Schools educational priorities while responding to real fiscal pressures. Across the report, the major things are clear. Foundational allowance

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revenue is expected to increase. Enrollment continues to decline. Revenues remain below projected expenditures in general fund and the district must continue managing resources carefully to protect long-term financial stability. This bud budget

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supports core district functions including instruction, student support operations, transportation, food service and facilities priorities while also recognizing the need for discipline planning after the expiration of extra funding. Although the district has made

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important progress in strengthening its financial position over time, the projected general fund deficit signals that ongoing monitoring, cost control, and strategic decisionmaking will remain necessary during fiscal year 2026 2027.

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The proposed budget is intended to preserve essential services, maintain safe and effective learning environments, and position the district to continue serving students well despite revenue and enrollment pressures. It reflects a balanced approach that is student centered,

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operationally responsible, and grounded in the district's commitment to academic growth, staff support, and transparent stewardship of public funds. So, our call to action is as follows. It is recommended that the board of education approve the fiscal year 2026 2027 budget

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resolutions as presented. Approval of this budget will authorize the district to move forward with a financial plan that supports student learning, sustains essential operations, and provides a clear framework for monitoring revenue expenditures and fund balance throughout the fiscal year.

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>> Thank you. Is there any questions? >> Yes, I do have a question. Um, >> go ahead. a comment of um thanking um director Brock Carter for pulling this together alongside Dr. Griffin. The

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question is in regard to the student account. So what was it like a 100,000 or something in that account and we're wanting them to fund raise and just correct me if I heard it wrong with 70,000 in the bank. Uh we want to start

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a trend of fundraising. So, we're not saying they have to fund raise for every student activity expenditure, but we would like to start a trend of fundraising throughout our district so that student activity funds can be spent and also replenished for future student

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activities. >> Gotcha. I guess for me um I'd like to see you know like when we get a grant um the grant the granter expects us to utilize the grant right and so if we put

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money aside for student activities I would like to see us um utilizing the monies for student activities um I do get that fundraising is you know it's a skill and it's all of that but if the

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money is sitting in the bank. The bank is getting rich. We're not. The bank is the one able to give loans off the money sitting in the bank while our kids and staff are out there trying to figure out how to make ends meet trying to So, if we have 70,000 sitting in there, I would

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like for us to be looking for ways to um invest in those student activities. Um, so that's just um just a different distinction in the way that I'm I would see that particular balance because we're here to serve and educate our

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kids. Um, and I think that the money could do a lot more justice investing in them. Um, outside of that, I do appreciate you pulling us together in the amount of time um that you had and

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making sure that we are informed. You I have um >> Can you speaking to your mic for those in Zoom land? Yeah, I'm looking at this and um I look at it every year and it just seems like it it you know if if the

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student enrollment is decreasing and we have almost $11 million in purchase services. Why are we still paying EDG staff so much and we don't have that the same amount of students who's monitoring it?

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who's monitoring transportation and and and so those are the kind of things I think that is very very important that we as a board of education um be able that we keep our eye on. Um also

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um a forensic audit. I would like to know how that look. um what would have to happen in all divisions, all department because these these $4 million, 7 million from 24

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million all the way down to 10 $14 million where I mean you I can't I can't see it. So that's one thing that I would like to start off from. The $24 million when it

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was $24 million in there, what is it that we paid to have this projection being a decrease of almost 14 million

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and and that's where that's what because we must watch that also as my question we've talked previously about this the general fund and then our our title monies and all of

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our other uh monies and what have you um that take car loads and loads of position doesn't come out of our general fund. I think it is very very clear. I know you call all of it the general fund, but there is actual general fund. There's a certain section of this budget that if it's not taken care of, it put

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us in a deficit. And so we're talking about um um making cuts. And if if if we're decreasing, then we might have to decrease time. We might have to combine some of these these these positions and and and sending out millions of

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dollars for uh directors and superintendent and assistant superintendent and all these different things and our numbers are steady going down. And so that's some serious conversation of you know people just having $100,000 salaries and then every

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time you go to a point where it looked at for things for kids when it comes to activities a little bit of money is over here. It's hard for them to get a little bit money over here. And this is what what what we're about is educating children and educating um um and making

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sure that our children have a quality education, which is a full education. So, I do understand that. I do need some more clarification and I would like to schedule a meeting with you if at all possible. >> Sure. >> All right. Thank you.

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>> Okay. um our budget hearing slides for today and we are basically reiterating the information we went over in the budget plan. Um Dr. Griffin, would you like to start with the first?

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Okay. You can see from the budget here inside our vision statement, Ben Harbor Schools is committed to the best in academics, athletics, and the arts. Starting with diversifying academics, retaining and valuing staff, and then providing

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enriching student activities. budget goals and your budget hearing goals. >> The budget hearing goals are to provide summary information on proposed budgets, comply with the uniform budgeting and

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accounting act, receive input from board of education and public on proposed budgets. The budget approves each function. function is the basic account identifier for expenditures. It describes the

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activity for which a service or material is acquired. The basic function categories operated by most school districts are instruction, pupil support, instructional staff support, general administration,

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business service, operations and maintenance, transportation, central services, community services, and facilities acquisition. Budgets are presented by fund. general fund, food service fund, syncing fund,

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and student activities fund. The budget goals are to increase academic performance, increase culture and climate for students and staff, increase community, family engagement opportunities.

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The general fund is our primary operating fund and organizational unit. It consists of revenues, expenses, and a firm balance. As stated in the budget plan, our total

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revenue sources for proposed for 2627 is 24,8001,116. Our proposed expenditures for 2627 total 30,389,847. General fund balance at the end of 2425 was $24,975

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I'm sorry $24,97,515. The general fund balance is defined as net net assets or rainy day fund. MDE recommends that 5% of state revenue remains in net assets at the end of the year maintaining the healthy fund

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balance. Summary of the general fund. Beginning balance 16,577,000. Revenue estimate as presented earlier 24,81,000. Expenses 30,389,000

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for a ending fund balance of 10,989 million. The net change in the fund balance is a decrease of 5.588 million for 2627. There's supposed to be a summary here.

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Oh, there it is. I'm sorry. It took a minute to pop up on my end. But here's a summary. Budget by function code. Again, as stated in the budget plan, we have our audited amounts for fiscal year 2425.

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our year-to- date actual for ending May 31st, 2026 and our fiscal year 2627 budget amounts. Our 2526 fiscal year end budget revision. We are updating revenue and

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expenditure accounts, utility and other maintenance account adjustments and other adjustments to reflect our actual revenue and expenditures for 2526. And that is in your uh

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pay packets that I gave you. You will see the 2526 final budget revisions. It will be like a blue color. >> I'm sorry if you mixed it up. It was right on top. >> Is it this one? >> Yeah. >> Yeah. You at the there's one for 26 27

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there and then there's the final 25 26. So there's two that look alike but they're slightly different. So for the 2526 final year end budget revision we are budgeting revenue revenue for the

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general fund at $22,42961. We are budgeting expenditures at 29,949292. That will give a ending fund balance to the general fund at June 30th, 2026 at 16,577,864. for food service 2526.

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Our total revenue is estimated at 1,340,000. Our expenses are at 1,441,996. That will give a ending fund balance for the food service fund at $70,23,000. 70

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>> I'm sorry 70,203. That would be a heck of a food service fund, wouldn't it? We'd have lobster and steak every day. >> For the sinking fund for got mixed up now.

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Here we go. or 2526 for the syncing fund. Total revenue 2,123,000. Total expenses 1,32,37 to give an estimated fund balance for the syncing fund at $7,694,167 at June 30th, 2026.

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Student activities revenue was $256. We didn't have any expenditures. So, we will have an estimated fund balance at $96,975. And like I said previously, we are putting things in place so that we can

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spend those funds on the students. A lot of those student activity funds are left over from I mean, I believe there's even Morton Hill um on the list. Um so they are not you know current student

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activities that have generated this revenue. So but we want the current students to take advantage of it. So that's why Dr. Griffin and I will be putting policies in place and speaking with our principles so that whatever's left wherever wherever it

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came from is being used for those same purposes. Trustee Rocket, >> go ahead. I'll let you finish. Okay. >> Approved 2026 millage rates. State levy 6 mills. Operating millage 18 mills.

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Sinking fund 2 mills. Total K through 12 is 26 mills. The sinking fund. Here are the allowable expenses for the sinking fund. Um all are listed there which we can use these funds for.

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The syncing fund beginning balance um is estimated at 7.65 million. We are estimating 2.5 million in revenue, 2 million in expenses for ending fund balance in the sinking fund for 2627

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at 8.19 million with a change of 500,000 as an increase. Food service fund. Here are all the allowable expenses for the food service

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fund. And the beginning balance of that fund is estimated at about 70,000. The revenue estimate is 1.37 million. Expense is the same with an ending balance fund balance of 70,000

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and a zero net change. Student activities 96.9 96,900 I'm sorry is that right? Yep. 96,900 beginning balance revenue estimate 5,000

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expense estimate 25,000 ending balance 76,900 with a net change decrease of 20,000. Next steps, board approval, 2526 fiscal year end budget res revision resolution

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and a 2627 initial general appropriation budget resolution. Thank you. >> Is there any questions for director Carter? >> Quick question. the beginning fund balance of 96,000 for the student

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activity fund and the expense estimate of 25,000 ending fund balance of 76,000. Are you saying that they have access to 96,000 or they

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have access to 25,000 only? They have access to 96,000. Okay, that is the expense estimate. As you know, we can make budget modifications throughout the year if our expenses exceed that amount. >> When you say the expense estimate,

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you're estimating that they will only spend the 25,000, but they can spend 96,000. That's correct. Okay. Thank you. >> So, Director Black Carter, I remember last year we found out that we had a CD

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with 500,000 in it. Are there any other CDs? >> Yes. dedicated to like student activity or do our staff need to be creative? >> I mean there we only have that one

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that's dedicated to student activity but we have CDs that uh draw interest and that is the other section of the transfer section. The 419,000 that's in our general fund budget is interest alone for all of our

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accounts including CDs. >> Okay. So, our teachers can be creative and innovative and use some of those CDs that were dedicated to like teaching Bitten Harbor history or certain things

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of that component as an activity. Yes, if we have that on the books, if that's the intent and purpose, it can be used for that at any time. >> All right. Thank you. >> Is there any further questions?

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>> Just a comment. If you look at the student activity fund, uh I'm sure those funds were from buildings that were open. They are no longer open and so we wouldn't get those revenues anymore. And basically I could remember doing all

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that fundraising and not spending all of the money so that money would go in to help build this fund. And it was fundraising. It was fundraising that raised most of this money. And so if we do want it to continue, we do have

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access to 96 million. >> But if we spend all of that or most of it, >> we won't have a we won't have any money in our student activity. So it's Yeah. 96,000. Yeah. I wish it was okay. If

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it's always like the junior senior prom, the juniors always raise the money for the senior's prom so that they would have uh have a nice prom next year. So, you kind of build on it. So, I understand what you're saying >> and I'm glad to be able to provide

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information that that money is still there. >> Yes. >> Thank you. If there no other questions, Dr. Carter, I'm sorry, Miss Black Carter. We would like to say thank you so much for your presentation.

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>> I'm sorry. What was that? Okay. >> Thank you so much. Is there anything else you need to say or not being in there? >> Okay. Thank you so much. >> Anyone? >> Okay, we are now back to our agenda.

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Thank you. >> Is there any public comment on our agenda item? or um we have to allow for public Q&A as well. >> Oh, sorry. Sorry. Yes. Sorry. Is there any public questions regarding the hearing

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on the budget hearing? Yes. Can you come to the mic for public record and just just say your name? >> Uh Deanna Shopan. I just wanted to make sure I heard uh that last comment

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correctly about teachers using funds to teach historical information to students. Um was that the activities budget? >> No, it's Oh, sorry. Oh, I'm sorry. I got it wrong. >> Yeah,

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Director Barcata, sorry. I >> Thank you. Uh, Vice President Bowens, um, we had a family donate money to the district many years ago and we put it in a CD. Um, so that memorial fund is still

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in existence and is available for the intent and purpose of that fund. >> Okay. Can I ask what that fund is for? >> Uh, I'd have to >> Okay, that's okay. share with you later, but I'm more than happy to share with

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you the uh guidelines around that fund. >> Yes, ma'am. Thank you so much. >> You're welcome. >> Is there any further questions on the budget hearing public >> question? >> No, we do have open public comment in a

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minute. Therefore, being no further questions on the budget hearing, we are now open for public comment. Do I need to read the statement again? >> I was hoping you said no. Sorry. Let's

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go. Um, the Benton Harour Area Schools Board of Education recognizes the value of public comment on educational issues and the importance of allowing members of the public to express themselves on district matters. Today, there are two sections on the agenda to comment. What you may

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decide when to speak, public comment on agenda items, and open public comment. We request that each interested participant complete the public participation form using legible writing to ensure responses are appropriately appropriate and properly focused. Per

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bitten Harour Area School bylaw 0167.3 which governs bitten board participation at board meetings. We request that you preface your comments with your name, address, and group affiliation when appropriate. Each statement may be made by a participant should be limited to three minutes. Um once the no

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participation may speak, no participant may speak more than once on the same topic until any other person has had the opportunity to speak on that topic. Participants may remove their mask when addressing the board. Participants should direct all comments to the board and not to staff or other participants.

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The board will listen, take comments and questions under advisement and will not respond at this time. I as vice president will refer your questions to the superintendent for research and response. Please ensure that your public participation form includes your contact information as requested. If you have

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any questions for the board or executive team that require follow-up, please email those directly to secretary renard.bhas.org. Thank you. Sorry. >> No, you're fine. Camu, praise God. The AC, this is Dr. Shopan, your Swahili

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instructor. The acronym FBA stands for foundational black American. Most of the district's student population can be described as foundational black Americans. Right now, I'm writing a book. The title

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is Swahili and the FBA. The royal house of Judah wrapped in a pure language beyond the shogi. The royal house of Judah wrapped in a pure language beyond the shogi. What is the

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shogi? The shogi is a pit. When my forefathers were brought here to the new world, they were stored in the bottom of a boat for two to three months that it took them to arrive. That place at the bottom of the boat is called the pit. In

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Swahili, it is called the shogi. As a Swahili instructor, a black historian, a biblical scholar, and a mental health practitioner, it is my professional opinion that when the

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God of the universe said in Zephaniah 3:9 that he would return a pure language to his people, and believe you me, there are many students in this school who told me personally they believe they are the

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chosen of God and and I believe that Swahili is that pure language. When you get to the Swahili class, we can discuss it in more detail. But as it relates to student recruitment, student

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recruitment, I want to emphasize this third time. I want to emphasize this third time the importance of researching what is the culture and the climate of the students. What are their values? They have their own values. I know you

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all are busy. I am willing to lead or just sit on a panel to scope out and research the values of our students. We need to analyze those values. We need to encourage the positive or community building values and provide training and

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viable options to replace those non- communitybuilding values. and Possmos will direct our students back home to the Benton Harour area schools. Asante Sana, thank you for your time.

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>> Thank you. Is there any additional public comments? Therefore, being none, is there a motion on the floor? Well, yeah. Is there a mot any board comments? Is there a motion on the Therefore being

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none, is there a motion on the floor to adjourn the meeting? >> Support second. >> It's been moved by Secretary Triplet, supported by Trustee Doyle. Mr. Secretary Tripler, can you call for

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the vote? >> Vice President Bowens, >> yes. >> Secretary Triplet, yes. Treasurer Gavin, >> yes. >> Trusty Rocket Martin, >> yes. >> Trusty Doyle, >> yes.

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>> Carrie, >> the meeting is agenda at 7:30 p.m. Okay, we got to do you guys want to take a five minute break or PM July 20 June 23rd, 2026?

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Can we please rise for the pledge of allegiance? >> Yes. I pledge algiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for justice stands. One nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and

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justice for all. >> Secretary Triplet, can you please call for the roll? Please do the roll call. >> Vice President Bowens >> here. >> Secretary Triplet present. Treasurer Gavin >> present.

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>> Trusty Rocket Martin >> present. >> Trusty Doyle >> present. >> The vice president has been established. >> Thank you. Is there a motion to approve the agenda

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as is? >> Been moved by Secretary Triplet, second by Trustee Treasurer Gavin. Is there any questions or concerns? Therefore, being none, Secretary Triplet, can you call for the vote?

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>> Right. President Barnes, >> yes. >> Secretary Triplet, yes. Gavin, >> yes. >> Back Martin, >> yes. Doyle. >> Yes. >> Thank you. We are now at the section of

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the review of the board norms. We will treat each other with respect. We will listen to learn. We will refrain from side conversations. We will use our time wisely starting and ending our meetings on time. We will challenge ideas people. We will ask questions when in doubt.

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There will be no surprises at the board table. We will practice the seven norms of collaboration which are pausing, paraphrasing, posing questions, putting ideas on the table, providing data, paying attention to self and others, and presuming positive intentions.

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We are now at the section for public comment on agenda items. Therefore, being no public item, no public comment on agenda items, we are reviewing our meeting minutes from work session 52626.

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Is there any questions or comments regarding those meetings? >> So, we're just reviewing, right? Yes. Looking up. >> If you see any questions or >> you can get that to them for the next meeting for approval of a >> I do have a question. Yes, trust um

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treasure gab >> who is doing our minutes now, >> right? Um >> there has not been anybody named as a substitute

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um secretary or anybody at this um is there a substitute or is it all hands on deck? So I guess the question is >> that person needs >> do we have someone

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who is subbing in the role of the administrative assistant for the superintendent and the administrative assistant for the board of education from central administration. Is that yes or no? >> No. >> I am

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I have the record here. >> That's not what we're asking. What we're asking is somebody in that position and we need somebody in that position as soon as possible because that's not your responsibility. >> I concur. I'll work on secretary trip. >> Thank you.

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>> Okay. Thank you. Is there any additional questions on meeting comments? I mean meeting from May 26. Therefore being we are now at the section of board business for policy 0167.2.

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the board by may by means of a roll call vote meeting close session one close to the public for the following persons. Um to consider this dismissal, suspension or discipline or hear complaints or charges brought against to consider or periodic personal evaluation of a public

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officer, staff member, or individual agent. If the name person requests a closed hearing, a majority vote is required. Michigan Compile Law 152681A And also B, it was per policy 016.72.

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Um, it's the same for A and B. Um, by the I'm sorry, the board by means of a roll call vote may meet in close session. One close to the public for the following purposes. to consider the dismissal, suspension, or discipline or hear complaints or charges

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brought against or to consider a periodic personal evaluation of a public officer, staff member, or individual agent if the name person requests a closed hearing. A majority of the vote is required. Is there a motion to end clo open session and go to close session to discuss board

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business A and B? >> So move. >> It's been moved by Secretary Triplet. Is it >> support >> and is supported by trustee Doyle. Can we please call for the vote? >> Vice President Bowen, >> yes. >> Secretary Triplet, yes.

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>> Treasure Gavin, >> yes. >> Trusty Rocket Martin, >> yes. >> Trusty Doyle, >> yes. >> Motion carried. >> Thank you. We are now going into close session at 7:47. For those that are of you in Zoomland, it will be a brief moment. Um, and for those of you in the

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audience, it will be a brief moment. Call the meeting back to order. Is there a motion? I call the meeting back to order at 10:29 p.m. Is there a meeting I mean a motion to close close session in close session and

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come back into regular session? >> Come on. >> It's supported by trustee Doyle. >> I mean it's been moved by Trusty Doyle and supported by Trusty. Secretary Triplet, can you call for the vote?

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>> Vice President Bowen, >> yes. >> Secretary Triplet, >> yes. >> Treasurer Gavin, >> yes. >> Trusty Rocket Martin, >> yes. >> Trusty Doyle, >> yes. >> Motion carries. >> Okay. Thank you so much, my lovely

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trustees. And we are now at the part of our agenda. of our agenda. And that would lead us >> to get a motion >> to get a motion to amend the agenda. Is

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there a motion on the floor to amend the agenda where we're voting on business and finance F1 and board comments? >> So move. >> Oh, I'm sorry. >> It's been moved by

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>> Did we vote on coming back? >> We got to vote on coming back into Oh, sorry. Sorry. [laughter] >> Please forgive me. Secretary Cher, can you call for the vote? It's really long. Like those of you in Zoom land, Secretary Cher, can you call for the

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vote? >> The way in which you did it was um you you voted for us to end close session. Yes. And for us to go back into open session, >> right?

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>> And so we are back into open session. Yes. And it was a motion on the floor to amend the agenda. >> Agenda. So, you need to call for the vote. >> Both of those. Are those Go ahead. >> Let's open Let's open it back up.

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I move that we open that we go into open session um for our work session with adjust adjusting the agenda

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only voting on staff reports that are listed on the on the agenda which is SS1 and F1 and F2. >> Huh. Okay. Okay. I support it's been supported by

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trustee moved by secretary triplet supported by trustee racket. >> I have a question. >> Okay. Trusty Doyle has a question. Dr. Griffin, what do we need to vote on tonight?

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>> All of this. and really uh budget. Yeah. >> Okay. >> Yeah. Just >> Okay. >> Thank you. That was my question. >> Okay. Secretary Triplet, can you call for the vote?

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>> President Bowen. >> No. You got to read the staff report first. F1. Secretary Triplet. Yes. Treasure Gavin. How did he know? >> We've already on the budget.

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>> No, no, no. What we're doing is right now we just we just put on there for to open the meeting back up. Oh, yes. Sorry. Yes. Sorry. I apologize you guys. It's a long night. I forgive me. Yes. I apologize. I would like to take my vote back. Secretary Triplet Alet. >> Okay. Let's Let's be clear. What we did,

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there was a motion on the floor for us to go back into open session. >> Yes. I vote yes. >> Okay. with the adjustments to the agenda where we will only vote on those staff

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report listed on the agenda. Staff SS staff report SS1, staff report F1 and staff report F2. Okay. Right. It was moved by brother by brother

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>> Secretary Triplet and supported by >> Trusty Rocket Martin. >> Okay, >> we're ready for the the vote. >> Vice President Bowen, >> yes. >> Secretary Triplet, yes. >> Treasure Gavin, >> yes.

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>> Trustee Rocket Martin, >> yes. >> Trustee Doyle, >> yes. Yes. Motion carried. >> That's done. >> What else? >> Now we are into our business and finance report. Treasure Gavin, would you like

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to read those? >> We're actually at um I'm sorry, teaching >> vice president. >> Yes. >> Were we going to agenda amenda? [clears throat] Amenda. >> We just did amend it. >> Okay. >> That's what we just did. [laughter]

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>> Agenda amenda. Okay, >> I'll read the um the staff. Well, I'll ask um Dr. Griffin if you would be willing to read the staff report, please. >> I will. Subject Stepping Stones contract

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date June 23rd, 2026. Reason for board consideration. The district seeks approval to renew its agreement with the Stepping Stones Group for Special Education Support Services for 2026 2027 school year. The district's current agreement with the Stepping Stones Group

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for Special Education Support Services expires on June 30th, 2026. The Special Education Department recommends renewing the agreement through June 30th, 2027. The Stepping Stones Group has partnered with Ben Harbor area schools for several years, providing speech language

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pathology, social work, and special education teacher services that support students with disabilities and help ensure compliance with federal federal and state special education requirements. Under the proposed agreement, services will continue to be

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built on an hourly basis at rates of $85.50 50 per hour for speech language pathology services, $81.50 per hour for social work services, and $80 per hour for special education teacher services. Renewal of this

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agreement will assist the district in addressing staffing shortages, maintaining continuity of services for students with individualized education programs, IEPs, and ensuring students receive the specialized supports necessary to meet their educational

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needs and achieve academic success. Policy reference 6 through20 purchasing strategic plan reference learning environment. Ben Harbor area schools will develop, maintain, and implement a fidelity with fidelity, a multi-tered system of support that enhances the

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culture and learning environment. Recommended action that the Benhar area schools board of education approve the special education support services agreement with the Stepping Stones group for the 2026 2027 school year with services continuing through June 30th,

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2027 as presented. Vice President Barnes, I make a motion that we uh support staff report SS1. A >> motion has been made by Treasure Gavin. Is there a second? I support. It's been second by trustee Rakette.

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>> Is there any questions or comments? Therefore, Bean, can you please call for the vote? Secretary Tripler, >> do you know who we are at the table? >> I don't. It's almost 10:30 and I got to go let my dogs out. >> Okay. Vice uh [laughter]

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Mr. Bournestein. No, Vice President Bournestein. >> President Bowens, >> yes. >> Secretary Triplet, yes. >> Treasure Gavin, >> yes. >> Trusty Rocket Martin, >> yes. >> Trustee Doyle, >> yes. >> Motion carry.

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>> Okay, that leads us to the next part of the agenda. Dr. Griffin, would you like to go to that one too, please? subject 202526 hearing budget revision date June 23rd 2026 reason for board consideration issue

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school districts have an opportunity to update their revenue and expenditure projections for the fiscal year that ends on June 30th fact and analysis the proposed year and budget revision reflects updated revenue and expenditure estimates for the 2025 2026 fiscal year

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this budget revision includes revisions to the general fund fund, the food service fund, the 2017 seeking fund, and the student activities fund. The resolution for adoption of the final 2025 2026 budget revision is provided on the attached general appropriations

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resolution. Policy references 6230 and 6231 recommended action that the board of education approves as presented the 2025 2026 fiscal year end budget revision.

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Okay. Is there a staff report? I mean motion to support staff report F >> support >> F1 >> support. >> It's been moved by secretary I mean trustee Doyle. Is there a second?

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>> A second. >> Second by trustee Rakette. Any questions or comments? Therefore being none, Secretary, can you call for the vote? >> President Bowman. >> Yes. Secretary Tripley. Yes. >> Treasure Gavin. >> Yes.

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>> Trusty Rocket Martin. >> Yes. >> Trusty Doyle. >> Yes. >> Motion carried. >> Okay. We now go to staff report F2. Dr. Griffin, could you please lead us into that? >> Yes. For staff report subject 2026,

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2027. Initial budget adoption. Date June 23rd, 2026. Reason for board consideration. Michigan's uniform budgeting and accounting act requires the governing body of public school districts to approve the the upcoming fiscal year's budget before the new fiscal year begins. Fact and analysis

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board policy number 62 6230 states that the final adoption of the proposed annual budget shall be made by the board after completion of the p public budget hearing. The budget hearing was held earlier this evening. The proposed 2026 2027 general fund budget assumes a $250

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per student increase in the state foundation allowance and a continued reduction in the district's blended student enrollment. The state legislature has not yet approved the 2026 2027 state school aid act. So the state foundation allowance and the 2026

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2027 blended membership amounts are currently unknown. The resolution for adoption of the initial 2026 2027 budget is provided on the attached general appropriations resolution. Policy references 6230 and 6231 recommended

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action that the board of education approves as presented the 2026 2027 budget. >> Is there a motion to repro approve staff report F2? >> So moved. It's been moved by Trustee Rakette. Is there a second?

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support >> and it's been second by trustee secretary triplet. Any questions or comments? Therefore, being none. Secretary Triplet, can you call for the vote? >> Vice President Bowen, >> no.

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>> Secretary Tripley, yes. Trustee Rocket, >> yes. >> Treasure Gavin, >> yes. >> Trusty Doyle, >> yes. >> Motion carried. >> Okay. Thank you. That leads to our next part of our agenda

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and that is super well board comments. >> You have to go to >> I'm sorry public comments. >> There's no one. Is there anyone here for public comments? There is not any. That leads us to >> no superintendent. >> Superintendent announcement. Sorry. I

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thought we remove everything, but what the >> You removed everything except for >> board comments in that vote. Okay, Dr. Griffin, can you >> I don't have any comments. >> No comments at this time. >> We'll go to board comments now. Thank

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you, Dr. Griffin. We'll start off with Trusty D. >> No comments. Trusty Watette, >> don't forget the summer institute is open. MASB summer institute and also the MASB annual leadership conference. Both

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windows are open. Sign up and take some classes. >> Thank you, >> Treasure Gavin. >> Um, want to thank everybody who did come out. Special congratulations to Dr. Shopan and all of the staff members who

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are working towards their certifications. I'm really excited about the all of our grow your own programs. I think it's so important for us to remember that [clears throat] we are not a for-profit corporation and as we

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listen to our finances, it's important for us to look at it with the lens of investing in our children. Um, and so if we have staff, that's a resource worth investing in. Not something that we want

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to get rid of unless there's somebody sitting around doing nothing. and they've eliminated themsel when they do that. But if we have bodies here who have invested in our district, um we are

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here to service the students and to service our community. And so, um, unless we are violating the state required fund balance, um, I think it's important for us to look at ourselves as a distinction, not

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a corporation, not here to turn a profit, but but here to invest every dollar that we can into those who are serving as a resource to our students and for their student activities and the things that they need to improve.

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improve their educational experience and outcomes in Benharberry schools. I know it takes it's a paradigm shift. I know that we're listening to we're getting advice from people who

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look at things from a corporate lens. But it's not the same when we invest in our kids, we invest in our community, we invest in our staff, especially we create an environment in which they want to bring their children here. then that

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comes right back to us. And so I'm glad that we were able to pass a budget tonight and I'm looking forward to what's next. >> Thank you, Secretary Triplet. >> Yes. Um first I would like to again take this opportunity to thank my colleagues

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um who are here tonight and um to wish our president um the best um in the work that she's leading as she's away doing some more community work. Um

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I thank her for um being there and fighting for that harbor. Um, I also would like to acknowledge one of my colleagues who passed uh who worked in Win Harbor area school for 35 years and

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that's Elizabeth Simmons. Um, Liz and I taught at Boon Monroary Magnet School, four years together. She was an exceptional um educator. That was one classroom. If

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your child went into that classroom with kindergarten, they were going to come out being able to read. Um she worked extremely well. Education was a part of her life. She um worked Sunday school um department um at our church at Pilgrim

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Rest. So I just don't want you know 35 years of service and love for Ben Harvard area student. I think that we um should honor and acknowledge her. We were able to I was able to get a card from the board of education thanking her for her 35 years of service. Um I'm

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going to close out with this. All of us sitting at this table, for some unknown reason, people think that we are salary and that we get paid for doing this work. This is service. And I want to thank my colleagues for

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answering the call to service over self-interest. We do not get one dime, one penny for any of this. And many of us have worked all day long and um we're here tonight

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um still serving our community. So, it's a sometime it can be thankless, but um I appreciate our commitment. I also would like to say it was just amazing to see the pictures of our football team

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um on Facebook down on the turf working out. It was absolutely amazing. And again, thank you to Tracy Robinson and um to um Whirlpool's Day of Impact

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um and including us um in that partnership. And with that, I'll um pass to our vice president. >> Thank you all um for tuning in on Zoomland, coming in the audience, Dr.

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Chopan for enlightening us with the Swahili. Um I want to also thank the IT team. Um I came here extra early. Um you guys were tremendous um help, taught me how to use the copy machine. I ain't young

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like I used to be able to do and was just helping me. Thank you. Um you know, yes, it was great. I yesterday I drove down to the tracker um the black top and I got to see our kids practicing and talked to the coach and everything and

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it was exciting to see that. So I'm looking good. I'll be glad field trip field is a turf field. Hint hint. Um, one thing I do want to say is an institution is not protected when things are easy. It is protected when think

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times are hard. Bitten Harour Area Schools has survived generations of challenges because people before us understood that the district was bigger than their personal feelings, political disagreements, and individual agendas. Leaders will change. Board members will

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come and go. Superintendent will come and go, but the instit institution must stand. If we truly love Benton Harour, then we must stop treating our schools like a battleground and start treating them like the foundation for our future. We

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must protect the institution. We must respect the institution because when the institution falls, our children pay the price. I would encourage my colleagues, if you have nothing to do on the weekend, watch the crowd. Um, The Crown

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is on Netflix and it will teach you some lessons. Um, so I that's what I just want to say. It's been a long meeting. We'll have to have a special meeting sooner. I'll send an email out so we can get the rest of this stuff dis accomplished. And thank you all. Is

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there a motion to adjourn? >> So move. >> Second. A motion has been moved by Secretary Triplet and second by Trustee I'm sorry, Treasure Gavin. Is there any questions or comments? Therefore, being can you call for the vote? Secretary Triplet. >> Vice President Bowen.

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>> Yes. >> Secretary Triplet. Yes. >> Treasure Gavin. >> Yes. >> Trusty Racket Martin. >> Yes. >> Trustee Doyle. >> Yes. >> Motion carried.

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>> The motion has carried. The meeting has been agenda at 10:50.