Hey. Hey. Heat. Heat. this meeting of Board of Education to order. The board would like to welcome the audience. Thank you for attending. Viewers may watch TCAPS board of education meetings and committee meetings live or on demand at any time
at tcaps.net/port. Please rise and join Mr. Cooper's fourth grade class from Eastern Elementary School in the pledge of allegiance. le to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands. One nation under God,
indivisible, liberty and justice for all. >> Okay, we're there. uh review of approval portion of the agenda. Is there any changes or motion to approve? >> I move that to approve the agenda as presented. >> Second. >> Second. All those in favor say I.
>> All those please say nay. Motion carries. Uh first item is recognition. And before you start just a number of students in the room, we will hold on to your forms and and at the either end of the meeting or at 8:00 we will sign
them. that you could be in a fortune today that odds odds are but not guaranteed that it will be before 8. So don't throw. Okay. So tonight on your way in hopefully you had the pleasure uh
to be able to see our TCAPS monastery seventh and eighth grade orchestra. And so uh they are here to uh be able to show uh their talents that they've worked on uh um as uh I think there are 17 I want to say
>> probably. Okay. >> Okay. Uh students that are a part of the uh the Monasuri uh seventh and eighth grade orchestra. Um so did you want to say a few words come up to just uh talk about the kids? >> I would like to say I'm really proud of these kids. Uh this is my first year
teaching here at the Monas story and um I didn't know what I was running into after teaching 20 years of choir in another district. Um and I was pleasantly surprised. Um my kids went through the monastery program with 18
years ago and I truly value our monastery system. My kids, my own personal kids are successful in college and doing great and I think a lot of credit to the monastery program and to two TCAPS in general. Um, these kids
have worked really hard and and shown so much improvement. I am lucky enough to see them every day and we I've worked we've worked on a lot of music and they have stepped up and to every challenge I've given them and I couldn't be more
proud of these guys. >> Awesome. Okay. Um there I know we have some strings. Are we going to play? Are we done for the Okay. I thought so, but I just wanted to double check. So, well, awesome. Well, we thank you uh all of you for coming tonight. Uh we appreciate
all the work you guys put in and let's give them a round of applause. >> Thank you. It certainly was great to walk in and uh add it to the tone for sure. So thank you. >> We're always uh you get the chance to >> Can I just want to thank Mr. Evans, the director. I just want to acknowledge
thank you for your work with those students, too. Yeah. >> Thank you. Okay. And tonight we have our newest Compass Award winners. So, I'll go ahead and pass it off to Connie Taylor, our associate superintendent, to introduce them. >> Thank you very much. When I introduce you, if you wouldn't mind coming and
standing in front of our banner up here, and when we'll go through all of them, and then we'll recognize you all together. So, we're going to start out with Craig Krupa. Apps me. Craig is a very valuable member of the Central High School custodial team. The nominee wanted to make sure to not only
recognize Craig, but the entire team for the outstanding work that they do. They said from the very beginning of the school year, as you walk through the hallways, you can see and also smell how much work that they have done to make the buildings spotless and clean for the students coming in. Day in and day out,
they put their best foot forward and Craig is always there for us with a smile, a laugh, and willingness to help. They're very grateful to have him at Central High School. Things have never looked better. Thank you, Craig. >> Barry Havens, transportation.
Barry was the bus driver for the downtown Trevor City Light Parade. He was a great help assisting with decorating the bus with lights before the parade. Barry was an awesome driver who made sure to get all of the stops of the evening safely and not only on time, but early. The kids of Corte have had an
absolute blast at the pro at the parade. At the end of the night, Barry also helped take the lights off the bus and clean up. He went above and beyond to make it a successful event with a smile on his face all night long. Thank you, BARRY. >> Next from TCEA, Debbie McMaster.
>> Sorry. >> You're good. >> Good. >> Yours is a little bit longer, so you have a little bit more time. Right. Debbie is a special education teacher at Blair Elementary. She serves as a pillar of strength at her school, utilizing the
calm and consistent demeanor to support both colleagues and students navigating the complexities of special education. She is particularly essential in advocating for trauma-impacted students, providing a vital safe space and building creative connections for those who face the greatest behavioral
challenges. By prioritizing at the the holistic needs of the family and maximizing opportunities for student engagement, she ensures that the well-being remains the primary lens for academic success. Her tireless advocacy and ability to navigate non-traditional paths to achievement make her an
indispensable member of the educational team. Thank you, Debbie. Next to Jen Choic, our administrative. Jen is principal at Traverse City High School. Jen Choic is nominated for the Compass Award for her exceptional leadership at TC High School where she
cultivated a supportive student center environment for atrisisk learners. Through innovative problem solving, she was instrumental in establishing the Comp Compass Learning Center, providing flexible pathways to graduation for students requiring non-traditional support. Her impact extends districtwide
as a collaborative partner, expanding educational opportunities and helping colleagues implement online learning systems. Ultimately, Jen's compassionate student first mindset ensures that graduates are equipped with the durable skills necessary to succeed and contribute positively in their
community. Congratulations, Jen. Megan Feice from the non-affffiliated administrator group. Megan is our communications and digital media matter manager with at the administration building. Megan is nominated for the Compass Award for her dedicated efforts
in transforming the district into a truly inclusive digital environment. Rather than focusing solely on compliance, she champions accessibility by ensuring that all web content, newsletters, and classroom materials are usable for individuals with diverse needs. Her work has effectively opened
the digital front door for students and families, teaching the community that accessibility is vital expression of care rather than just a technical chore. Through her expertise and passion, Megan has made the district more welcoming and accessible for everyone. Thank you, Megan.
Lori Bot, food service. Lori is a cooks assistant at Long Lake Elementary. Lori has been working at Long Lake for the past two plus years. In the absence of the Long Lake kitchen leader, Lori truly stepped up to the plate, showcasing an impressive level of responsibility and teamwork. Her
dependability shines through as she effortlessly handles all tasks from food preparation and ensure to ensuring cleansiness and order in the kitchen. It's been wonderful to see Lori grow and maintain the food service standards. We are grateful for Lor's hard work and commitment. Lor's initiative and
positive attitude have made a significant difference at Long Lake and we're fortunate to have such a dedicated worker among us. Jill Jenkins, TC Capsa. Jill is the lead administrative assistant at ele at Eastern Elementary School. Jill Jenkins is celebrated as an
essential pillar of Eastern Elementary, expertly in managing the diverse daily needs of students, parents, and staff with a positive can do spirit. Beyond her secretarial duties, she showed remarkable remarkable initiative by collaborating with a parent to establish an on-site food pantry that provides
warm meals for families in need. Her steady leadership and vast institutional knowledge make her an invaluable resource for new staff and stabilizing force for the entire school. By consistently going above and beyond to support her community, Jill embodies the very best values of the district.
Congratulations, Emma Hindle. Non-affiliated support. >> I think she was not able to. >> All right. We'll just say just a couple words about Emma. This is her third year serving as the lead teacher in one of the toddler rooms. Unfortunately, before the school year left, um the the teacher
had resigned and her classrooms experienced a lot of um substitutes over the last several months. Despite that, she has served as a consistent force in that classroom. She brings stability to the classroom and the students that we service. She has a positive with the staff, students, and parents throughout
a very challenging time. Congratulations to Emma. All right, congratulations to all of our winners. a little closer. Waiting for the uh >> Okay, ready. >> One more round of applause. Great.
>> It wasn't like work. It was so much fun. >> And as always, you're all welcome to stay, but you're also welcome to go home and enjoy the evening. >> Should we stay or should we go? I'm up. >> This was like a book.
>> I know. All right. So, uh, moving on, uh, to public comment and the board has set aside this time for public comment. Individuals addressing the board should have one opportunity to speak, and it should be limited to 3 minutes. Individuals should address the board and not make personal tax on related to actions affecting the
school system, and we strongly encourage common courtesy and constructive feedback. Detailed rules and procedures including a complaint process are outlined in board policy 25504. >> Uh Bill Lner Biller City and uh again the same sign.
This is a great website. takeback theclassroom.com and uh ask TCAPS about takeback toclassroom.com and it's concerning the books in the libraries. It lists every pretty much every school district in America. And uh
so check that out. And u thankfully uh there were four elementary schools with at least one book here at TCAPS. So now it's down to one. That's a great thing. But there's like 221 books yet in the library. Uh and I read
uh pretty excerpts from two of them and that was enough for me. You don't have to read the whole book. And uh the handout that I handed out from the back and there's uh copies for each of you there. Uh I made the formatting a little bit better, but uh it gives they say no,
we need these books in the classroom. And it gives the reasons why no, you don't need these books in the classroom. And that brain in a bird cage, you have those kids in a bird cage for like seven hours a day. So you want to put good things in there, not things that are
harmful. And um you've admitted it with and I thank you for that. And this chart kind of shows it. The impacts of porn. You had four slides in the last sex ed curriculum and that was wonderful. And the impacts of porn. Uh, one of the
slides says impacts of porn. Recent research on the emotional, behavioral, and sexual harms of pornography to children, adolescence, and teens. That pretty much covers everybody in the classroom. You know, it's harmful. And
if you read any two of those books, I think you'll come with the same attitude that I had that it's harmful to the kids. Um um by the way too I added and adults because it was harmful for me when I was
hooked on porn for a couple years in college and uh it's harmful for anyone and the and the adult should know that more than the kids and that should be passed on to the kids. Um, porn is really a better definition is child
sexual assault abuse material. Child sexual assault abuse material. That material is a sexual assault on the kids. It was on me when I read a book my brother had in in the bedroom. He's seven years older and that was pretty
mild. Hotel I think it was called. And uh that can change a lot of things for the bad for the worse. And uh I'll just mention much time to mention but u just you have the power you have the board has Dr. Van
Wagner told me you have the power to get rid of those books. Please get rid of them. Thank you. >> Bill, >> we don't we don't respond. Policy doesn't allow questions. >> The policy allows questions.
>> The full policy right here. question. Do they have to update their list? >> Yep. Um, >> is that the public comment? >> Okay. >> It was updated. It was how it was, then it got changed, then it was updated again, but we can go over that later.
So, um, superintendent's report deferred to Dr. Van Wagner. >> Yeah. So, legislatively, not a lot. Um, but I had an opportunity, uh, John Roth was in today with his, uh, um, one of his chief of staff, and they think that
we're going to see a, uh, budget proposal out of the House of Representatives, the subcommittee on uh, education appropriations. Tim Kelly is the chair. They're thinking the end of this month uh we will see something from the house and they're anticipating most
likely a week later. They're thinking right now that the Senate uh will there the subcommittee on appropriations Darren Cameler is the chair they think that the first uh week of May that we will see their version. So um it sounds like quite a bit of consensus but I
definitely think that um the House version will be many many fewer categoricals. I know is the goal that they've had to squeeze a lot of that down. So, we'll uh we'll see what that is. We're continuing to advocate um for all of the the things that we've talked
about um talking about obviously with the weighted formula, making sure transportation's in that weighted formula. Um as well as one of the things we talked about in our uh I don't remember if it was curriculum or finance, we talked about I believe curriculum dual enrollment costs. Um did
have the chance to talk with uh with John today about that. Also had the chance to meet with John Deuce. Our all of our ISD superintendents met with John Deuce on Friday um and had the chance to talk about those items as well. Uh so we've we've put out there uh some of
those key uh legislative appropriations things that that we want to make sure are are uh a part of the the bill that mean a lot to TCAPS and uh likewise Northern Michigan schools. So, uh, once we start to see what that looks like, and what they're saying is they do think
it'll be out before the revenue consensus, um, uh, meeting in May, which is kind of interesting because kind of that's when you find out what money is available. So, >> it's seen some pretty in massive swings. >> Yeah. And so, you know, what I don't,
you know, I'm not sure it'll be interesting to see how much their budgets align the revenue side of what the May revenue consensus uh, hearing is. So once we hear that, I know MASB does a great job for all of you of of keeping you informed of what all those things look like, but we'll make sure as
well in all of our association stuff, we share that with the board so that we can keep up with it. But um again, continuing to advocate for those things that mean a lot uh to to our kids. Um, as far as district highlights, uh, Travis Area Public Schools recently
received the associate association of school business officials international certificate of excellence in financial reporting for the fiscal year that ended June 30th, 25. The award represents a significant achievement and reflects the commitment to transparency and high quality financial reporting. Uh, thank
you to Christine Thomas Hill, our assistant superintendent, as well as Wes Sod and Sandy Low and Julie Gorder and all of our team really in the business office for all their hard work and dedication to make this possible. And I want to say is this 18 in a row? >> 21 in a row. Okay.
>> But who's counting, >> right? 21 in a row. So that's that's just mindboggling. Um, you know, and I think the thing that Christine mentioned in finance to be proudest of is that there were no comments this year. it was that well done. Um so kudos to all of
our team and uh um Christine, thank you and please make sure to all the team to to let them know how much we appreciate it. >> Thank you. >> Um congrats to Kristen Studman, our West Middle School principal, and Britney K, our TCAPS director of curriculum, who were featured in the March 21st Trevor
City Record Eagles Women's History Month special section. Um, it's always great when we have the chance to highlight our staff and uh those are are two outstanding uh female leaders in our school district that we're very proud of and we're thankful to the Traverse City Record Eagle for that recognition. Uh,
congratulations to Cherry Null teacher Kristen Frank who is in the Z93 radio teacher of the month. Uh, so I know that they always do a little thing on their social media uh highlight uh their teacher of the month. O appreciate the radio station and uh recognizing uh
Kirsten. Uh, Central High School teacher Jeff Glickman has been selected as the 2026 uh, Funford Teachers Fellow to explore, conceptualize, conceptualize, and document the French Revolution related art and historical sites in France, Belgium, and Spain to develop an
inquirybased curriculum that enhances the crit critical thinking skills, evidence-based perspectives, and understanding of the French Revolution and its enduring legacy for high school students with diverse learning needs. He'll bring his learning from this summer back to our students here in TCAPS. Governor Whitmer has proclaimed
April 2026 as school library month in Michigan. TCAPS would like to thank all of our school library staff for all of their outstanding services that they provide to our students each and every day. Uh the TCAPS district art show will be held April 23rd through May 7th. Um
this year it's at the village of Grand Traverse Commons. Excited for that venue. We think it's a great venue uh to partner. Um, the opening ceremony will take place April 23rd from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. So, if you get the chance, outstanding art projects from our students and very excited K12 to see
that work. Spring sports are off to a great start with over 750 athletes engaged in MHSA activity at both Central High School and West Senior High. Um, they are quote unquote enjoying the Northern Michigan outside spring weather as they are
competing. Um whether that's snow, sle, rain or in the same day maybe the same weekend for sure. Um so again lots of kids participating. I know the track teams have like a hundred like of each boys and girls I think at both high
schools. I mean it's mindboggling to see them all out there. So awesome work. Uh appreciate all of our coaching staffs and athletic staff. Um all of our our teaching staff that support those students. Um just a really outstanding thing to see so many kids active and and
connected. Um robotics season is in full swing. Um Central High School, the Raptors are celebrating its 20th year of first robotics. Um at the first district event in Mount Pleasant, they earned the engineering inspiration award for promoting engineering locally and globally through initiatives like bot
talks. This qualified the the central high school team for the Michigan State Championship. Uh, I believe that's at Sagenov Valley. Um, coming up and at the Trevor City event, their alliance placed third and they received the sustainability award recognizing their long-term impact and strong team
practices. The West Senior High Titans have built their robot named Gemini, a dual uh um a dual turret robot uh designated to collect and shoot fuel balls. despite limited practice lot because of snow. Um they practiced uh
they placed third at their uh their first event and qualified for states after a strong showing at the Trevor City event where they also earned a judges award. Since then the team has been redesigning key components and increased practice using a full field setup in the innovation manufacturing
centers I might add even uh hosting regional teams. So Dan's just always so proud to tell me like, you know, as much as it also has benefited our students, I think they've had like seven other teams there with them at times with the opportunity to have the field and to be able to practice. So really cool to be
able to do that. Um, and they are currently ranked 63rd in the state, hoping to improve on that. Again, both teams will compete April 16th through 18th coming up here this uh weekend uh at Sagenov Valley with hopes to advancing the World Championships in
Houston. Also want to recognize an email went out today. Um we are a part of an attendance campaign again uh talking within goals of our strategic plan. We have partnered uh with uh Northwest Ed um and other school districts in our ISD
uh for an attendance campaign. Um, I had the chance on Friday. We, uh, Larry and Megan were over at, uh, the career center and all of our superintendents, we all cut, uh, promos, video promos that'll go out across our, our districts. Um, basically with that idea, kind of have that tagline, success
begins with showing up. And so, working to educate parents. And so this is a a statewide campaign and regionally we're working with the ISD um collaboratively to uh create materials be able to distribute uh uh hard copy video um
maybe even some radio type ads I know that they're working towards. So again, uh working specifically in that goal to try and improve attendance um working uh with the ISD which you may recall our truency officer um is based out of uh the ISD and so trying to take proactive
um work towards improving attendance across the district and our region. >> So I have a question. So is North actually increasing their resources for truency or are they drawing on like just statewide? >> I believe they are. I believe they've um
so Don Mormon who's been our trance officer has also been the pupil accounting auditor only. So I know that they've hired a second pupil accounting auditor and so I know that that's given either she's doing some or it's given Dawn more time to be able to work towards truency items. Um, I'll tell
you, I think it's still, you know, light, but they don't get any additional funding um, as the ISD4. It's just kind of baked into the cake of their section 81 funds as an ISD. But Don does a great job, but capacity is tight with it. But we're constantly talking about that and that's something we're hoping and I know
that ISDs are advocating for some more resources to be able to address um, and uh, working as well with this campaign. on this attendance alliance though that um does do you get does North Ed get the funding from the state or how does that work exactly? North. Yeah.
>> So it's no >> and I don't know as much as funding as resources are directly given to them. I think there's you know printing that they can request that are given. I think some uh some digital kind of things that they're like templates are given some things like that. There may be a little money behind it. It's it's it's I think
it comes out of um my so the different state office with that um with the work but um but all the resources are going there but Megan's working with Ryan and Larry. They're very close kind of really co-artners um in the the work of moving the work forward.
>> Terrific. Thank you for the update. >> Y um and then um I would uh also say that um we have back from spring break here. Um lots of other awesome clubs that are are still going
across the district. Um activities all over. Um we're getting ready here for state testing um coming up Thursday. So, uh, at the high school, we'll have SAT and PSAT, um, on Thursday. So, we've, uh, let our students and parents know to
be prepared and ready for that. So, I know we've had some SD SAT prep sessions that some students have participated in. So, um, just want to all our students have been been told, make sure your Chromebooks are charged and ready to go to start that up Thursday morning. So,
that's what I have for my report. >> Okay, any questions? All right, we'll move on to board committee report outs. Uh, board curriculum committee from April 7th pointed out by Secretary Ballinger. >> Okay, terrific. So, we had everybody in
attendance and we've had uh special guests from staff Sarah Dette, Tara Gang, Chad Means, and Lisa Peoples join us as well um to talk about arts in our district. So after approving the meeting meeting minutes um we looked at the
latest additions to our district course cataloges which are two courses offered by subject which is an online platform. Those are both ELA at the high school level and they are being piloted this spring. They are on the consent calendar for approval tonight. We also just
briefly heard about the latest field trip requests. one from Traverse City Central High School Quiz Bowl team to go to the national championship in Georgia in May as well as the West Singer High Academic World Quest uh going to their national competition in Washington DC at
the end of April. Um the centerpiece of our curriculum committee meeting was as always the learning series and this month we learned about um the visual and performing arts throughout our district. So the presentation was really geared towards how does do the arts connect
with our strategic plan and specifically goals two and three. Goal two being student well-being, goal three positive student behaviors. So connectedness, safety, mental health, um positive behaviors and then but we also talked as a group really collectively about how
the arts also contribute to goal one academic achievement. There is some evidence that shows nationally this isn't there's a bit of study specifically on teacups but there is some correlation with involvement with the arts and improved test scores like to the tune of over 100 points on the
SAT is what Mr. an shared um also goal four in terms of career and college readiness. Um number of our high school students pursue the arts after in college or as careers and get scholarships. And then last but not
least, the connection to ret recruiting and retaining and growing our staff. Goal five. Um we talked about how some of our arts teachers spend decades in our district. um you know they they retire after 30 plus years. So all of
those things really um you know touched on our strategic plan and then um the four guest teachers uh talked specifically gave an overview of our our programs from elementary school through high school and just quick takeaways.
Um, in elementary our kids are exposed to 30 minutes of music two times a week, visual arts one time a week. In middle school, um, sixth graders are required to take some kind of arts class. But what's really interesting is that in
seventh and eighth grade, nearly half of our middle school students are still electing to take an arts class. So that's a pretty good return on that investment. And then in high school, um about one quarter of our student body elects music, theater, um or choir. So
they're still in the performing arts um at the high school level. So it was just uh you know very informative I think even for those of us who are parents or community members who go to performances and such now and then just to get that holistic view of the arts in our
district and how it connects to our strategic plan. And I don't think it can be overstated how special this district really is in terms of the arts. This is not a normal average district in the realm of arts. There are other districts
who would be, you know, so envious to have the programs that we have. So, I'm just going to let that there. Um then we also just briefly touched on the fact that NMC Northwestern Michigan College um has is now entering its 13th year of
a relationship with TCAPS for the early college program. And so the memorandum of understanding needs to be renewed from January 2026 through June 2030. That is um al that was in our board packet as well. So we we with that we
moved on to celebrations and successes throughout the district. The usual you know codory of student achievements and staff achievements. And um with that uh we almost adjourned but just briefly acknowledge that a couple of trustees um
have requested some additional information in advance of our May 9th or is it 13th? I might >> 13th >> 13th study session. um that will be on the budget. So, we just briefly discussed about how those those requested items will be given to the
board um predominantly through the curriculum committee at our late April meeting. And with that um our next meeting will be Tuesday, April 28th at 8:15 a.m. here at Glen Lumis building. >> Okay. >> Thank you.
>> Thank you. Any questions? Okay. Um, moving on to board finance and operations committee on April 9th. Uh, reporting out by Vice President Boom Moore. >> Uh, yes. So, we, uh, meeting was called to order. Uh, we, uh, approved the
meeting minutes. Uh, there were no changes. Um we we discussed the Mission Hill Church donation which is actually on discussion tonight of $22,088 which we'll talk about in a little bit but very thankful um from that group for
our um student support network. Um and then we moved into our bids and services. So the first item uh that was approved or I'm sorry that was moved to the um full board consent is regarding uh new sander vehicles. So, um, the
finance committee approved I and just a little backstory. So, they had they have three sander trucks. Uh, each sander truck had various issues this winter. Obviously, very taxed and it snow removal uh and sanding capabilities. So, um uh they're asking for a new uh sander
truck 192,000 with a 10% contingency which will come from bond funds. Uh so that is uh on consent tonight. The other item is a field groomer. Um, specifically, we talked a lot about um the why the need for this. And so,
again, if you look at our elementary schools and our middle schools, um we are not really able to to groom those um uh the softball and baseball fields or same fields, I guess. They're they're just in really poor condition. And so, every time we have to hire a service to
come in and do it, it costs a whole bunch of money because they're in such bad condition. And so with the purchase of this field groomer, it will allow us to keep up better with um all of our fields across the district um including high school fields as well. So um the uh
it's a zeroturn field rumor um for a purchase price of 66,590 with a 10% contingency. Um also coming from bond funds. Uh this is on the consent calendar tonight. Um then we moved on toformational items. Uh we went
through our capital projects update. Um, Sabin is moving right along for uh our administrators. Still a hard hat area, but moving moving along. So, >> Wednesday hopefully >> hopefully Wednesday. >> Okay. Yep. And it's really taking shape.
Looks great. Uh, also talked a lot about the work here at Glen Lumis, um, moving staff around and and staff sort of being uh, displaced while they uh, try to figure out closing that end of the building and moving everybody to this end of the building. Uh, I think Jesse's
already relocated with her team. Kind of. So, yeah. >> So, a little a little bit uh a little bit of that. And I I think those were kind of our main updates. Am I forgetting anything? >> No, I just want to clarify the sander truck is actually general fund. It was not allowable out of bond funds. So,
that one's general fund. >> Okay. Thank you. Sorry. Okay. >> Um, then we moved on to the sustainability committee report out. I'm going to take a stab at this, but might need Dr. Van Wagner to to help me out here. So sustainability uh 1.0
um really talked about students driving the sustainability. So coming up with sustainable solutions that is really student driven so it can carry on for um kids to come in the future versus a top- down approach. um talked about having
two elementary schools uh pilot um silverware instead of plastic wear, throwing away plastic wear, having that re reusable silverware and and talked about some ways to maybe help with not throwing away the silverware. So, um we're going to pilot two elementary
schools there. Um had an update that our three solar panels are up and running. Uh and that was with a grant from Cherryland. Um, so that's interesting and and they're they're really going to be able to look at the data and what those solar panels are
um look, you know, the data in the numbers as to what kinds of kinds of savings we're we're looking at and and also in including the students in looking at that data um which is interesting. And then um talked briefly about hoop houses at our elementary schools and maybe putting a plan
together and what does that look like in the future. Did I forget any other major? Um, biggest thing is all of our schools are Michigan green schools have filled out the application. That was one of our goals in the 1.0 plan. And so all of our schools have submitted the Michigan green school application. >> Yeah. So, and we've had more kids join
the sustainability committee, right? You had you've had some more kids going, would you say? >> We have both environmental clubs we had represented this time. Um, I think we had five total students and so really really good meeting. >> Yeah. Um and then we had again our certificate of e excellence with uh Dr.
Van Wagner just shouted out uh to Christine and her team. So thank you again. Great work. Uh 21 in a row is fantastic and again no comments uh which basically um yeah is just that's how you can measure that great success. So thank you so much to your team and reviewed
our district purchases um future and present. And then that was it. be adjourned and our next uh um finance committee meeting is April 30th uh in this room. >> Okay. Any questions? >> I also have a question about the sustainability committee. So 202
actually. So when when do we find out about the schools getting approved for the green award? >> Well, the applications were due March 1st. So I think that you know the the application is approved by before the end of the year and with you know a lot of the work happening going into the
fall um from that element. >> It'll be a while little bit. >> And then secondly so have we formally entered the sustainability committee 2.0? No. Are we saying >> 1.0 is a full calendar year? Okay. >> So it'll go through December 31 um for us to reach those goals.
>> Okay. >> But we're on a good track. We're making good progress. >> Yeah. Wonderful. Thank you. Yep. >> Okay. Um, next up is the executive committee report out which I will do. I
will skip over some of the items already covered in other report outs. Uh, and really that only leaves uh HR specifically. So, we um have hired a new principal, Cherry Null, Tony Pasco, joining us. Um, also filled uh Wes's
position in finance, which was a big a big one to fill. Um then we do have a number of positions that have posted for the for the next school year and uh screening candidates and conducting interviews has begun. So uh if you are looking to move uh you can
track down HR which again has moved from this building to tracking them down is the hardest part but they are now in Sabin um as well and soon to be called the TCAPS administration building. I'm sorry. So there you go. So um but it will be great when it's all done. Um so
there are no open interviews being held in April but there will be uh some in May as well. So uh there is the community for board members of retirement celebration which I know a lot of us attend is on May 28th 4:30 to 6 at Montasuri. >> On that note we're going to need to look
at executive committee if we're going to move that back like we traditionally have. I didn't notice that >> he's on that that >> it is. So just a note that that's something that in maybe in the end here you might want to >> address >> and then well we have one in executive
we still have that won't be next so we have to just say >> just giving you a heads up on it now I was looking at my calendar ahead I was like oh wait a minute that always it hits us every year the day that we back it up so that we could all head over to Monasuri for the retirement provisionally I can say that without
objection that will likely happen and the board members will be notified um if they have any conflict. So, um, so yes, that was the only other item that wasn't covered elsewhere and we it was a quicker meeting so we joined at 4:16. Next meeting is Thursday, April 30th at
4 p.m. Um, that one will be at 4 p.m. So, >> Scott, I have a quick question. Was that the people accounting coordinator a new position? >> John, >> it is. So, one of the things with our uh with our new um Compass Learning Center, a lot of those kids are they're under a
separate section of pupil accounting law and that we're on a monthly count with those students and so there's quite a bit of paperwork that has to happen with every one of those students and so it's been pretty overwhelming. We've had staff actually um doing overage with a lot of that trying to do that. So, an
investment in that program that's you know we've had quite a a decent amount of new students come through that. So we want to make sure we don't mess things up from a state level and all of that work that it takes of coordinating you know there. So to give you an idea the difference between when we have students come in on count day it's essentially
are they there on that day and are they there every hour this actually requires a learning plan that a student has we have to develop with a student. It has to be monitored and looked at every month on their progress toward that they have to earn a certain amount of credits that has to be documented and sent to the state and every month that's done
through all that program. And so it's been very taxing. So it's something we've had to look at capacity wise because if we mess it up, it could easily be $10,000 just like that with one student. >> So it's something that we've had to address. >> Yeah, that makes sense. And I think the other thing that was mentioned that consistency during the summer to help with enrollment
>> and that's the other piece. >> Yep. And we've always we've had AAS the last, you know, it's one of the things we changed a year ago. We did have you know a lot of parents would go to school and the AAS weren't there in the summer. So we did bring it to central office last year and we had I think a few two administrative assistants work through
the summer. We decided to put that all together all a part of that pupil accounting enrollment all that and again we think that you know it it it pays dividends for us and keeps us from getting into an issue with the state where you know if we if we messed two up it would you know >> and maybe even helps our enrollment
rightist. We have somebody here somebody to be you know very welcoming to people as they come and talk to them about it and all those things. >> Good. Thank you. >> And approximately how many students >> compass >> two some 20?
>> Yeah, we've got almost almost 300 kids um total in the high school virtual and we've got 38 I want to say at the middle school. >> I have an interesting I'm glad you brought that up because I know Ty you had asked this question about um the amount of students that are academically disadvantaged in that it's actually
about half. It's about 50/50. >> Okay. So which bucks the trend it does statewide it does. So it's really important because we offer those face-to-face wraparound services everything in that building. You know a lot of the cyber schools that have been around the state that are just online
and don't have those wraparound services. They're seeing very high numbers of the kids that are participating in those are from poverty >> like 75%. >> Yeah. And so we are bucking that trend that we're just about even 50/50 in our numbers with that. We did take a look at that. >> Great. I was I sent him the data. He has
the data. >> Yeah, I have it. And so we're we're really excited that, you know, all those wraparound services, you know, we we really debated that a lot with why we thought HC High and the Maverick Center was the place for it that has everything from generations ahead to social work to food pantry to, you know, all those
things that for many kids matter whether they're in poverty or not. And so, uh, good stat there. I thought I >> appreciate you bringing that up and and Jen being recognized today and her team for all that work. Anyways, I didn't want to Yep. >> Yeah, that's cool. Thank you. Um, okay. So, that was uh no other
questions on report outs. We move on to consent. And do I have a motion to approve the consent calendar? >> I move that the board of education approve the consent calendar as presented and without discussion. >> Second. >> To Beth, I think there you pass it over to Beth. >> Whatever.
>> Then Josie was slightly ahead. So Josie is the second. Um, all those in favor say I. >> I. Those oppos say nay. Motion carries. Moving on to discussion items. Uh first school safety update find.
>> Okay. And boy is this one just kind of not for us unfortunately but around the state it's being an issue. Um as you are aware our district and community re recently impacted by a large snowstorm that blanketed our state with the governor's office declaring a state of emergency advising residents to shelter
in place. That week was also Michigan 2026 severe weather awareness week, which serves as an important reminder for communities that severe weather can strike quickly and with little warning. Each spring, all of our schools conduct tornado and severe weather drills, reinforcing safety procedures so
student, staff, um, and, uh, and others in buildings know exactly where to go and what to do if they need shelter in their buildings. These drills are especially significant this year as Michigan has already experienced dangerous weather including multiple tornadoes in early March that caused widespread damage in the southern part of our state. And we know Gaylord was
hit a couple years ago. In addition, forecasters continue to warn of active storm patterns bringing threats like damaging winds, hail, tornadoes, and I'll mention heavy rains as we sit here today. Uh the statewide tornado drill held um uh during severe weather uh
awareness week is designed not only to test emergency systems but to build real life um readiness habits by actively participating and uh taking these drills seriously. TCAPS demonstrates a strong commitment to student safety and preparedness helping ensure that if severe weather impacts northern Michigan
the school community is ready to respond effectively. So continuing as we're seeing, you know, crazy crazy elements. I don't know if you know, don't go across airport road right now is flooded over by Boardman Lake. >> Yeah, >> you probably know. >> I do.
>> And uh I talked with Andy from the Y. They had the Y camp that that campus shut down. Um but you know, we do have a little bit over by TC High. Um, you might remember the stream that's a big stream at the moment runs right under the the the bridge, but we're okay as of
what I've been told as of so far today. Um, but uh again, all those kind of things are we're seeing more and more of. So again, Patrick does a great job of of lining these up, making sure we're taking it seriously, more talking about the realities versus it just being a
drill. So appreciate all of his work on that as we continue to make sure that we're in both practice and in facility doing everything we can safety wise. >> Is it getting any worse? We didn't have any structural is like not structural in our
structures but like getting buses or there was no >> not that I'm aware of. I mean is always a challenge but >> so once so with you know I know that we're routing all over three miles all sorts of stuff. >> Interlocking is about to start too. >> Interlock is about to start. They've got uh the 32 tore up.
>> Well, 31 today going up county is worse. >> Right. Well, 31 out by the the campground. They're doing a new entrance there. So, it's closed down to one lane, three miles shut down. Even right here, they've got this road shut down >> today. So, you know, so we're we're rerouting everything and Tyson and our
team did a good job of figuring those things out. >> Okay. Um any other questions on that? Um if not we'll move on to staff appreciation special recognition def. >> Okay. So uh we have our recognition. So
let me pull this up. Give me a second. Okay. Uh in alignment with national teacher appreciation week. Um traditionally TCAPS uh and our board of education has publicly acknowledge and recognize all of our staff members uh here at Traverse City Area Public Schools. Um we have a special
recognition um with us. Um you know we we don't do a resolution as much but um Josie if you want to read this one like we traditionally do if you're willing. >> I thought that was Isn't that usually next month? >> I thought this was a different one.
>> Well, this is we're coming up. We don't have a board meeting. We have that. >> Okay. >> I'm happy to read it. >> Yep. No, we're good. So, let me go and read it. On behalf of our greater community, we acknowledge the dedication and commitment of all of our employees, including those who teach, clean the
schools, drive the buses, answer phones, design curriculum, enhance technology, coach, direct, communicate, train, hire, finance, and lead the daily operations of everything in our school district. Schools are the hub of a community, and TCAPS is no exception. Our community
takes great pride in the ongoing successes of our students and all programming. It is said that it takes a village to raise a child and today we honor all of the staff of Triber City Area Public Schools who make our village a vibrant, safe, and rewarding place for the children to learn and grow. We do
have a small token of appreciation that we do have for staff. Um we're working on donations with that, but we did get the chance to we have a lanyard um tecaps and we also have some keychains for a lot our transportation staff and others. Um so uh again wish you know we
could do more but of course you know Gatsby and all those things you know limit what we're able to do. Uh but again um it's a small token but a lot of appreciation for the work that all of our staff puts in for the benefit of the children here in our community and we're thankful for all of them.
>> Thanks to all you guys and all the teachers and staff out there listening. So thank you truly >> and for the district. Yes. And for the record that is in the board packet which means it is publicly available. So, I just wanted to >> make sure that was acknowledged. >> Yep. No.
Um, awesome. Any other actually any other discussion? >> Do I have a motion? >> I move that the board of education approves that May 4th through 8th, 2026 is the TCAP staff appreciation special recognition week as presented.
>> A second. >> Tammy, please conduct. >> Um, Trustee Moon. Yes. Trusty Ballinger. >> Yes. >> Trusty Vajaras, >> yes. >> Trustee Tac, >> yes. >> Trusty Schmidt, >> yes. >> And trust me, >> yes. Motion carries. Uh, moving on to the next item. Donation from Mission
Hill Church. Um, Dr. Raymond. >> Okay. Yeah. Had that the very last page. Yes. Thank you. Well, it was my very last page. I had it teed up. Oh.
Thank you. I just need the number. I know. I think it's $20,88. I remember right. But um so uh 22,000 um so every year uh the at their uh holiday Christmas um u um sessions at Mission
Hill Church, which um >> service >> I said the service. Thank you. It's the they're formerly the first congregational church at the bottom of the peninsula um and right on Center Road. They take an offering up and uh I've been told that normally they do a
different organization every year, but in contacting I know with with Ginger and um with Katie talking to them, they thought as enough of the program and the things that we do, they offered again for a second year to provide that uh donation offering um to our student
support network. And so, uh, again, as as as customary within board policy, um, it was over 20, $22,88. Um, again, this goes to many critical, um, supplies and supports, uh, for our students that are farthest from
opportunity. So, we're very, very thankful for that work. Um, you know, one of the things that we're going to do this summer is make sure to again highlight all of the work that this money does um, to be able to show our community. Um I know that Jinger and her team are continuing to work um towards
the goals we've set for SSN and LEAP um based on our strategic plan goals with LEAP and so uh just again appreciate Mission Hill Church and their congregation for this gift. >> Yeah, I think I just want to thank the church for continuing to support our
student support network and that is a very sizable donation. Um, just I'm curious, do we know what percentage of our budget or our fundraising goal that amount is? >> Well, of our goal, it would be probably
around three three or 4%. >> Of our goal. >> So, the total fundraising goal. Yeah. >> For SSN is >> right around I think we had 600,000 was the goal for this year. It's very pretty pretty lofty. She's way out from the element, >> you know. It's it's a it's a it's a
stretch goal, >> you know, for sure. And and I can tell you like even over time, like you know, the goal is over a million dollars to be able to do is the goal that Ginger has worked with um with Dez, our our consultant to try and do. So, um but it's significant and again, we plan on
doing an update with the board this summer, kind of highlight a lot of that work that Ginger's done, that Katie's done, and be able to give the board some very specifics on that. So, >> great. Thank you. >> So, I'll make sure those numbers, that's coming right off the top of my head. It's been a few months. Um, but >> yeah, but I'll make sure to uh to, you
know, when we have the summer to give that the numbers specific to the board on what everything we've raised, where that money's gone and all that. So, >> I think the key uh nice fact is that we're now talking hundreds of thousands of dollars versus before it was tens of thousands of dollars. So, >> and that's annual
>> annual. Yeah. which has been a focus on the board um and myself just to continually highlight that program and the amazing work it does for the community and and really is a great investment for long-term in the community as well. So,
thank you to the church and and everyone who supports that program. So, >> I move that the board of educ education approves the donation from Mission Hill Church as presented. >> I second. >> All right. Um Tammy, please go to roll. Trusty Schmidt, >> yes.
>> Trusty Veraris, yes. >> Trusty Ballinger, >> yes. >> Trusty Moon, >> yes. >> Trusty Pat, >> yes. >> Trusty Nia, >> yes. Motion carries. >> Um, and thank you again from the board that a phenomenal donation. So, thank you. Um, moving on to public comment
number two. hearing no public comments. Uh we will move on to the closing remarks and really just wanted to you apologize to the board for the aruous month I've had with travel in the previous month. A lot of it unexpected and uh all sorts of health and business
and resource related. Uh I am uh still technically traveling until through next week but then it will even out just in time for a very very mild May of graduations and everything. So >> award ceremonies.
>> Yeah. Including uh including one of my own as well. So uh I but it has even for me uh this has been a particularly uh aggressive uh three last three or four weeks. So apologies. I think I've covered most things, but if I haven't,
um, I am catching up, uh, day by day. So, um, with that, do I have a motion to adjurnn the meeting? >> I move to adjourn the meeting as second. >> All right. All those in favor say I. I. >> All those post say nay. >> Meeting adjourned.