School Board Work Session: 5-6-26

The Norfolk Public Schools Board held a work session on May 6, 2026, focusing primarily on educational outcomes, policy updates, and budget discussions. Key procurement-related topics included the proposed SY27 budget, which was presented at just over $472 million, reflecting an increase of nearly $12 million from the previous year. The budget discussion highlighted additions such as $400,000 for special education contract services, three behavior specialists, five bus drivers, a centrally managed $150,000 school furniture budget, and three new security officers for elementary schools. The board reviewed a $6.2 million reduction in funds due to the removal of reversion funds by the city council, offset partially by increased city revenue sharing and the use of true-up funds. To address the shortfall, the board considered reallocating $2.67 million from building acquisitions and $2.38 million from contracted CIP services to the CIP budget, preserving the traditional $3 million for deferred maintenance. The task force recommended reducing the UI tutoring budget by $800,000 while reinvesting $500,000 into local tutor positions to increase tutoring capacity more cost-effectively. Other recommendations included eliminating wellness champion stipends, funding one behavior specialist instead of three, reducing the school furniture budget by $150,000, and cutting $250,000 from the McKinney-Vento transportation budget based on expected savings. The board also discussed policy updates related to electronic participation, staff weapons, and programs preparing students for high school equivalency exams. Additionally, there was dialogue on the use of tutoring services, AI in education, and future agenda items including school building closures and board conduct. The meeting concluded with a motion to enter a closed executive session for personnel and legal matters.