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State Board approves FY25 annual report and FY26 budget; members push for community outreach
Summary
The State Board approved its FY25 annual report (as amended) and the FY26 spending plan and spent much of the meeting debating how the board can better reach Wilmington communities — including proposals for community liaisons, outreach at fairs, and a community 'educational ambassador' model.
The State Board of Education moved forward on two procedural items and devoted substantial time to community outreach strategy.
The board voted to approve its FY25 annual report as amended after members noted minor corrections; the motion was made by Griffin and seconded by Stevens. The transcript records named abstentions (Nisha LaHavia and Simmons) but does not provide a complete roll‑call tally in the minutes.
Later the board approved the FY26 proposed spending plan, a vote the president closed after members voiced no objections; Griffin moved and Powell seconded. The transcript records at least one named abstention (Lejavia) on the budget motion; a full roll‑call tally is not in the transcript.
Members then reported on committee activities and exchanged lengthy discussion about redistricting and community engagement in Wilmington. Board members and public‑facing members of the community described the effect of past school closures and overlapping districts in Wilmington neighborhoods, noting the absence of neighborhood school hubs in areas such as Southbridge. Several members pushed for practical outreach: taking the board into communities, partnering with churches and neighborhood houses, offering on‑site literacy or math activities at fairs, and creating a community educational ambassador position to help families navigate district, charter and city resources.
Student board member Tyler urged clearer explanations to students and families about redistricting decisions, saying the lack of simple, age‑appropriate explanations fuels misconceptions.
Board members agreed to continue the conversation at a Sept. 4 strategic planning meeting where they will review SBAC results, set goals and identify actionable steps tied to the board’s five priorities.
