BOE Digital Report

Mr. Chris Oaks (’02) provided an update on current Facility Improvement Projects.

Projects included improvements to the Middle School Main Office and Terrazzo, boilers at the Primary School, and the District’s shared fuel facility, among others.

Mr. Oaks reported a building condition survey document is currently being processed. The survey will be used to determine the scope of what the next Facility Improvement Project would look like. Mr. Oaks says a potential project proposal could be introduced in the summer, with a likely vote coming in December.

More improvement project photos can be found by clicking here!

As a reminder, the 2026-2027 school year Budget Calendar was approved by the Board at the December meeting. The full timeline is listed below.

• The first Budget presentation will take place on Tuesday, February 3, 2026

• The second Budget presentation will take place Tuesday, March 3, 2026

• The Budget proposal will be up for approval from the Board on Tuesday, April 7, 2026

• The Public Budget Hearing is on Tuesday, May 5, 2026

• The annual School Board Election and Budget Vote will take place on Tuesday, May 19, 2026

The meeting began with an update on the District's Distraction-Free Learning policy from Student Board members, Lily Cooley and Dane Hartwell. The students reported a decrease in student cell phone possession violations, and made recommendations for future enhancements.

The Board adopted the policy as part of New York State’s law to promote distraction-free learning environments. But beyond that, it's about student well-being, and promoting an engaging learning environment.

High School Technical Theater Director Mr. Doug Blackall provided information regarding the school’s Technical Theatre program. The program offers several opportunities for students to get hands-on experience in everything from set construction to lighting design and production communication, among other fields.

Mr. Blackall’s presentation included an interactive tour around the Performing Arts Center (PAC) facilities, which include the costume shop, scene shop, and the Performing Arts Classroom, among other spaces. The tour was co-led by Pal-Mac graduates Riley Israel (’22), Emily McFarlane (’23), and Ally Stupin (’19).

Dr. Ike recommended the granting of tenure to Ms. Allison Cranmer, who is a music teacher at the middle school.

The Board then awarded tenure to Ms. Cranmer.

Board President Laura Arrington congratulated Mrs. Kathy Loughman, an administrative assistant, on her retirement.

Mrs. Loughman will retire at the end of June.

The next Board of Education meeting will be held on Tuesday, February 3, 2026 in the High School Lower Cafeteria.

Looking ahead to the meeting:

• A presentation will be made regarding Blueprint Action 1.1 - Provide specific learning experiences and paths toward future careers: Pre-K 5 Hopes and Dreams.

• Mr. Brongo will share the first 2026-2027 school year Budget Proposal presentation, as well as the updated financial plan.

• Our student Board members will present their ThoughtExchange survey results.

Board Agendas are always released the Friday before a Board meeting and can always be found on the District website at palmaccsd.org