School board approves new benefits package options, moves FSA/HSA, dental and vision to Bridge

The Sydney Public Schools Board of Trustees voted to approve a new employee benefits configuration that will move flexible-spending and health-savings accounts plus vision and dental administration to a vendor described in the packet as Bridge. The board also agreed to keep district-paid basic life insurance with United Heritage and long-term disability with Unum, and to continue voluntary supplemental coverage available through Aflac.

The recommendation came after committee members Nikki and Tracy reviewed carrier comparisons and plan buy-ups. The Chair summarized the options and said the Bridge proposals were the closest match to the district’s current coverage for vision and dental, noting the Bridge dental option carries a $2,000 annual maximum and a modest premium increase. Board discussion touched on buy-up premiums, frame allowances for vision and differences in long-term disability payout levels.

Committee member (who moved the motion) put forward the motion "to approve the insurance options as presented," which was seconded by Bridal Suket, the student council representative. The board approved the motion by voice vote; no roll-call tally appears in the provided record.

Board members and staff also discussed enrollment in the open enrollment/enrollment timelines and the district’s deadline to finalize selections ahead of July 1 enrollment processing. The Chair said committee staff would finalize the vendor selection on the timeline provided and assist employees through the enrollment process.

The Board packet and committee analysis will be included in the official minutes; the change affects benefit administration choices for the 2026–27 plan year.