Superintendent: state budget still unresolved as district ramps up summer programs and hiring

Superintendent Tina Frollo used her report to brief the board on district operations and state-level timing that affects local planning.

Frollo told the board: "The state budget has not yet been approved despite the July 1 deadline," and encouraged community members to contact legislators to advocate for timely passage. She said the Finance Committee had reviewed district budgets and the Policy Committee will begin NEOLA policy reviews next week, which are expected on the July board agenda.

Frollo outlined operational work underway: Early Childhood launched a summer daycare program and is onboarding four new staff; the Transportation Department is close to hiring an additional driver and substitutes; the district is streamlining hiring and training processes; Technology is completing summer maintenance and preparing online enrollment; and Maintenance is preparing facilities for the coming year. She also noted the Filter First drinking water program is nearing completion.

On food service, summer meal distribution at Mancelona Middle School began the week of the meeting and "128 children have already registered," according to the minutes. The superintendent said central office has moved to summer hours and is closed Fridays, and staff are handling year-end reporting, payroll, retiree paperwork and onboarding tasks.

Frollo also reported union negotiations are ongoing and the Directors Group plans to continue meeting next year after survey feedback indicated growth in communication and collaboration.