Board reviews summer move plan, graduation logistics and turf-use rules

Administrators told the Saranac Lake Central School District Board on June 3 that they are scheduling a coordinated summer move of district offices and community-school suites to accommodate audit timelines and summer programming. The district plans to hire an outside mover to perform the bulk of the moves, retain a local cleaner for post-move scrubbing, and provide labeled boxes and a modest stipend for some teachers to set up classrooms after relocation.

During discussion board members asked whether community volunteers could assist. Administration said buildings and grounds staff prefer contracted movers to maintain packing standards and to protect sensitive materials; one limited program was proposed to allow an SLTA member up to $100 per day for up to two days to help set up once boxes are in the new rooms. Administrators said discretion is needed to avoid visibly packing classrooms during students’ final weeks.

Trustees also reviewed graduation venue logistics, exploring whether to hold commencement on the district’s turf field or at the civic center. Members cited seating limitations on the turf bleachers (about 500), accessibility and family attendance concerns, and the need for a firm weather backup plan. Athletic staff raised turf-protection issues for outside uses such as rugby: screw-in cleats are prohibited on the turf and users must meet cleat requirements and insurance standards; board members emphasized that failure to adhere to restrictions could result in a moratorium on outside use.

Finally, the board approved an amendment to the district’s energy performance contract (covered in a separate finance vote) and discussed timing to reallocate staff and office locations during the summer to ensure audit and tax-season deadlines are met.