Cheltenham board approves consent agenda and adopts two‑year academic calendar

The Cheltenham School District Board of Directors approved its consent agenda and adopted a two‑year academic calendar for 2026–27 and 2027–28 during the board’s Jan. 13 meeting.

Board President called for a motion to approve the consent agenda; a motion and second were made and the chair said the motion carried following a voice vote. The items approved included routine minutes and other committee‑recommended business that had been vetted in advance by board committees.

Board members then moved to adopt the district’s academic calendars for 2026–27 and 2027–28. In remarks before the vote, Dr. Benjamin Whiting, cochair of the Educational Affairs committee, said the calendars reflect community values and noted the district had sought stakeholder input on religious and cultural observances. “Calendars are a reflection of effort and values,” Whiting said.

Board members emphasized predictability for families. One director praised the two‑year format as a planning benefit for families and staff. The chair called for a voice vote; the board reported ayes with no opposition and the motion was announced as carried.

The superintendent’s earlier report had said stakeholder voice informed calendar planning and previewed the vote as an agenda item. The board’s approval allows families and staff to begin planning around the adopted dates for the next two school years.

No numeric roll‑call tally was recorded in the meeting transcript; outcomes were announced by voice and the chair stated each motion carried.

The meeting continued with public comment and other committee reports; the board adjourned after completing the published agenda.