FZSD Board of Education - May 21st Meeting - 5/21/26

The Fort Zumwalt School District Board of Education held a meeting on May 21, 2026, focusing on several procurement and budget-related matters. Key procurement discussions included approval of a new school resource officer (SRO) agreement with the City of O'Fallon, which involves increasing SRO presence at middle schools with the district bearing up to $200,000 in additional costs. The board also approved capital improvement projects for stadium lighting upgrades at West and North High Schools, with bids awarded to Musco Lighting totaling approximately $323,000. Additionally, the board approved the expansion of a student RFID transportation and identification system, with an initial investment of about $144,000 and ongoing subscription costs. The meeting included approval of new science curriculum materials and related instructional resources, as well as a peer technician salary agreement with a 4% wage increase costing approximately $37,000. Financial reports highlighted budget challenges, including a projected $2 million deficit for the next fiscal year and a requested $4 million transfer to the medical fund to cover rising healthcare costs. The board also approved a drone site agreement with Saint Charles County Police for public safety purposes. Policy concerns were raised regarding Senate Bill 1002, which changes school board election laws in Saint Charles County. Motions related to these procurement and budget items were passed unanimously or with minimal opposition.