Board of Education — June 8, 2026

The Superintendent explained that while the local budget contribution is flat ($127.5M), state aid of $5.2M was received. To balance the budget without a local tax increase, the district must find $1.1M in reductions. Proposed cuts include absorbing vacancies in business, music, social work, science, and ELA, as well as reducing capital and technology budgets. Board members expressed significant frustration regarding the difficulty of cutting programs and the impact of the 'flat' local funding despite rising costs.

No final decision on specific cuts was made; the administration is monitoring resignations and vacancies to see if savings can be realized without layoffs.

A final recommendation will be presented to the board on June 22nd.

The administration detailed a multi-year capital plan including fire control systems, roof repairs, and track resurfacing. There was debate over whether high-utilization community assets (like the high school pool or playground) should be funded through town bond issues rather than the school's operating budget. The Superintendent noted that the district is utilizing state Drip (District Repair Improvement) grants to supplement local funds.

The administration agreed to discuss the possibility of including certain long-term school infrastructure items in future town bond issues.

The Superintendent has a meeting with the town this Friday regarding joint capital planning.

Board member Secretary Eisenhauer noted that approximately $250,000 of the budget is allocated to SROs and suggested a dialogue with the Town Manager and Police Chief to evaluate better placement or cost-sharing options.

The Superintendent agreed to initiate discussions with Town Manager Stefano and Chief Starby.

The board discussed a $360,000 increase in the MISO account. The administration explained they are 'smoothing' the increase over three years to avoid a single large hit to the budget, projecting manageable increases for the next two years.

The administration will continue with the smoothed payment schedule based on projected requirements.

The student shared their academic achievements, leadership roles in cheer and the Black Student Union, and their upcoming commitment to the University of Michigan for pre-med and Division I cheer. Board members praised Fred for his leadership, academic excellence, and for serving as a role model for other MHS students. He was recognized for his ability to navigate the responsibilities of a student representative while maintaining a high level of academic achievement.

The board formally recognized and thanked the student for their service. The Board presented Fred with a commemorative stole featuring the Manchester Public Schools emblem as a token of appreciation.

The Superintendent read summaries of nominations for various teachers across the district, including Ryan Corey (Bennett Academy), Ramonia Bravo (Bowers), Jessica Jarvis (Buckley), Greg Carabello (Highland Park), Megan Lane (Keeney), Kaylee Sims (Verplanck), Breanne Borba (Waddell), and Alberto Soto (Flight Academy). Mr. Joshi was recognized as the overall Manchester Public Schools District Teacher of the Year.

The award recipients were formally recognized by the Board and the Superintendent.

The DRE team discussed their 'five equity elements' framework, emphasizing the need to move beyond just addressing 'achievement gaps' (outputs) to addressing 'opportunity gaps' (inputs/causes). They argued for a 'both-and' approach that examines both student outcomes and the role of adult behavior, systems, and personal biases. The presentation included a review of AP and SBAC data, noting that while scores are rising, racial disparities in growth rates persist. The department explained how they use protocols to navigate uncomfortable conversations regarding race and identity. They detailed their three-pronged approach: the 'personal' (e.g., racial autobiographies and the 21-day challenge), the 'interpersonal' (e.g., interracial partnerships and affinity groups), and the 'operational' (e.g., cultural observances and professional development).

The team presented their current methods of engagement, including interracial partnerships, affinity groups, and professional development aimed at increasing racial consciousness. The board engaged in a discussion, expressing support and interest in learning more about specific programs like the 21-day challenge and affinity groups.

Board members expressed interest in being introduced to school programs (similar to the PAST program) to observe equity work in action.

Superintendent Geary noted that these revisions were primarily required by legislative changes. The policies included student records, medication administration, discipline, social media, and various anti-discrimination policies.

Seven specific policies were reviewed and passed unanimously.

The policies covered topics such as child abuse reporting, Connecticut paid sick leave, budget procedures, animals in schools, and wellness/food in celebrations. These are slated for adoption at a future meeting.

The policies were presented for first reading; no immediate vote was taken.

The policies will be on the agenda for adoption at a future meeting.

The contract was updated to include occupational therapists, physical therapists, and other additional staff members under the existing nurses' union agreement through June 2027.

The motion to ratify the agreement was passed unanimously.