Board of Education (Special Meeting) - 1/21/2026

The FairTV Education Board of Education held a special meeting on January 21, 2026, primarily focused on budget discussions for the 2026-2027 school year. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to public comments advocating for the restoration of the music department secretary position, which had been proposed for elimination in the superintendent's budget. Speakers emphasized the critical administrative role this position plays in supporting the music program's logistics, instrument maintenance, and overall quality, warning that cutting it would negatively impact instructional time and program excellence. The board also reviewed various budget sections including staff salaries, instructional services, transportation, utilities, and contracted services. Transportation budget discussions included potential bus route cuts and associated cost savings, with staff noting the complexities involved in reducing routes without inconveniencing families. The board discussed software procurement, including the adoption of PowerSchool to replace Infinite Campus, with a request for more detailed cost-benefit information before approval. Other topics included curriculum textbook funding adjustments, restorative practice training contracts, and operational expenses such as utilities and printing services. Several members expressed interest in exploring transportation budget reductions and enhancing kindergarten paraeducator support without increasing overall budget costs. The meeting concluded with plans for further budget amendments and presentations in upcoming sessions.