School Board — April 14, 2026

The presentation highlighted the motto 'One nest, many wings, united we fly' and emphasized that academic achievement is built on a foundation of safety and belonging. Students shared personal stories regarding cross-grade mentorship, community service (animal shelter donations), and career exploration at the high school. Mr. Rose provided academic context regarding social isolation and the importance of relationships in mental health.

The board provided positive feedback on the student presentations and the school's community-building efforts.

Secretary Aaron Kalil presented corrections for the March 17th and March 24th minutes, including a typo in 'Grant' and changing 'recall' to 'recount'.

All three sets of minutes (March 17, March 24 regular/reorganization, and March 24 non-public) were adopted as amended.

The agenda included re-nominations for staff and several new administrator roles: Brittany Mahaney (Soul Elementary Principal), Bethany Bernasconi (North Salem Principal), Edward Nordgren (Salem High Dean of Students), and Sarah Vera (Director of Maintenance). A resignation for math teacher Derek Wessell was also noted.

The consent agenda was adopted with the addition of Derek Wessell's resignation.

The senior class presidents requested dismissal at 12:47 PM on Friday, May 22nd. Superintendent Palmer requested a commitment from the officers that students would return to school on the following Tuesday.

The board approved the early dismissal request.

Two bids were presented for YNS Technologies: one for student Chromebooks ($271,353) and one for staff laptops ($205,600). Discussion included why a lower bid was disqualified due to insufficient hard drive space.

Both bids were awarded to YNS Technologies.

The board reviewed $20,647.34 in Perkins V redistribution funds for professional development and equipment, and a $10,000 CTE Ambassador Grant for leadership development and marketing. A board member questioned why the amount received was lower than other schools, noting the needs of the CTE center. It was clarified that the allocation is determined by a state formula based on student participation and demographics. The Superintendent explained that the CTE ambassador program focuses on leadership development and marketing by using student leaders to represent CTE programs at recruitment events. The grant is a one-time award from the state to support these efforts.

The board accepted and approved the expenditure for both grants. The motion to accept and expend the funds passed 5-0.

The administration presented minor changes highlighted in blue following feedback from the previous meeting. Legal counsel advised retaining certain language to ensure compliance with federal and state statutes.

The motion to adopt the amendments to Policy AC passed 4-1, with Michael J. Carney, Jr. in opposition.

The board processed the immediate resignation of Daniel Bolster, a teacher at Salem High School. Additionally, the board reviewed a list of proposed salaries for the building principals and the extended leadership team for the upcoming 2026-27 school year.

The resignation was accepted, and the administrator salary schedule was approved 5-0.

The student rep highlighted successes in theater, color guard, CTE, and FBLA. Board member Michael J. Carney, Jr. requested updates on SB101 legislation, noting it may require future board votes regarding participation and capacity.

The Superintendent committed to pursuing details on SB101.

Superintendent to provide an update on SB101 legislation.