Watertown School Board sets 2025-26 meeting format and election date

The Watertown School Board convened on July 14, 2025, to discuss several key administrative matters, including meeting schedules, election dates, salary adjustments, and committee appointments.

The board unanimously approved the continuation of its regular meetings on the second Monday of each month at 5:30 PM, held at the district administrative offices. This decision aims to maintain consistency in the board's operations for the 2025-2026 school year.

In another significant decision, the board set the date for the next school board election for June 2, 2026. This establishes a clear timeline for the electoral process, allowing for adequate preparation and community engagement.

The board also approved an increase in school board salaries from $125 to $130 per meeting, while noting that the maximum allowable salary under state law remains at $166. This adjustment reflects the board's commitment to fairly compensating its members for their service.

Additionally, the board reviewed and approved the truancy agreement with the Watertown Police Department, which designates the police as truancy officers for the district. This agreement is a continuation of previous arrangements aimed at addressing student attendance issues.

The meeting also included a discussion on the fee structure for the 2025-2026 school year. The board approved activity ticket prices, meal costs, and substitute pay rates, with most fees remaining unchanged from the previous year. Notably, adult activity tickets will remain at $80, while student tickets will stay at $20.

Finally, the board appointed members to various committees, including personnel, property, and legislative representatives. These appointments are crucial for ensuring effective governance and oversight within the district.

Overall, the meeting underscored the board's proactive approach to governance, focusing on maintaining operational consistency, addressing financial matters, and fostering community involvement in the electoral process.