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Superintendent: state aid up, BOCES aid increase, FEMA project and capital priorities noted
Summary
Superintendent Dr. Lashmegan told the board state aid came in roughly $219,000 higher than proposed, BOCES aid rose about 9.2% (about $436,000), and a FEMA project of about $14 million is being coordinated alongside the district's capital project; bat habitat concerns may affect timetables.
Superintendent Dr. Lashmegan used his report to thank voters and staff involved with the May 19 election, and to highlight state budget impacts and key district initiatives.
"Our state aid run came in $219,000 higher than what we proposed to the voters," Dr. Lashmegan told the board, calling the increase welcome news that reduces fiscal risk for the coming year. He also said BOCES aid increased by 9.2%, an amount he estimated at about $436,000 to offset shared-service costs.
On facilities, the superintendent provided an update on a FEMA-funded project the district has pursued, describing it as "to the tune of $14 million." He said the FEMA portion has been separated from the larger capital project to avoid stalling broader work and that the district is coordinating with FEMA on environmental constraints related to northern long-eared bat habitat. "We are going to work with FEMA on that...in the next 60 days roughly we'll have an answer," he said.
Dr. Lashmegan also reported work to expand universal pre-K transportation eligibility locally, noting the board will consider a change to Policy 5501 at the June 2 meeting so UPK four-year-old students who turn four by Dec. 1 would be eligible for district transportation. He highlighted student engagement efforts, saying the district's student advisory has grown to 36 students and recommended re-seating the student board member Caleb for a second year.
On scheduling, the superintendent announced an early-release day this coming Friday and said additional early-release days at the close of the school year are planned, with communication to families forthcoming. The board asked clarifying questions about bat habitat and timelines; Dr. Lashmegan confirmed the district had bats present earlier in the year and is working with FEMA and other officials to avoid disrupting habitat while advancing the project.
The superintendent's remarks were informational; no formal vote was required on these updates during the meeting.
