5.26.2026 School Board

The City of Portsmouth School Board held a meeting on May 26, 2026, focusing primarily on educational and administrative updates. Key procurement-related discussions included the approval of three new hires: Nicole Balabano as the permanent CTE director, Amy Quigley as a library media specialist, and Lindy Launch as a school psychologist. The board also authorized the superintendent to make summer hires to fill remaining vacancies, including food service, custodial, paraprofessional, and administrative assistant positions. Additionally, the board approved a motion to authorize the superintendent to negotiate a one-time buyout of up to $15,000 with the teachers' union to encourage early retirement, aiding budget planning. Budget reports indicated a healthy financial position with some surplus revenue, and the board discussed policy updates, including rescinding an outdated policy on administrative procedures and approving others related to policy development and adoption. The meeting also covered grant funding assurances and ongoing collaboration with foundations providing financial support to schools. No new contracts or capital projects were discussed, but the meeting included important personnel and budgetary decisions impacting future procurement and staffing.