During a recent school board meeting, trustees expressed significant concerns regarding agenda items related to curriculum changes and the selection of a financial advisor. Trustee Bone voiced strong opposition to item 7, citing a lack of transparency in the administration's decision to retain the same financial advisor without proper disclosure to the board. Bone emphasized the risks associated with choosing a relatively new firm to manage the district's finances, ultimately deciding to vote against the proposal.

Another contentious topic was the proposed purchase of Amplify K-12 curriculum materials. Trustee Bone raised concerns about the effectiveness of these consumables in classrooms, noting feedback from teachers that many of these materials often go unused. This led to further dissent among board members, with Bone and another trustee indicating they would vote against the consent agenda.

The meeting also addressed a proposal for additional paid leave for district employees, aimed at improving staff retention and morale. Dr. Azayiz presented a plan to provide two additional days off for all employees, strategically scheduled to minimize disruption to student instruction. The initiative is part of a broader effort to support staff well-being, especially given the tight budget constraints that prevent significant salary increases this year.

Trustees discussed the implications of this proposal, with assurances that it would not impact the required instructional minutes for students. The plan aims to allow all district staff, including administrators and support staff, to benefit from the additional time off, fostering a healthier work-life balance.

Despite some reservations about the financial implications of granting administrative staff additional leave, the board ultimately moved to approve the amendment to the district's innovation plan, allowing for the implementation of the additional paid leave. The decision reflects a commitment to prioritizing employee well-being while navigating the challenges of budget limitations.