Hello Somers/Lakeside Staff and Families,
Here’s a recap of the most recent School Board meeting so everyone can stay in the loop.
Meeting opening
The Board called the meeting to order, completed the Pledge of Allegiance, and confirmed attendance (all present except Adam Schilling, who has resigned due to moving out of the district).
Public comment was offered at the start; none was given at that time.
Consent agenda approved
The Board approved the consent agenda (minutes, warrants, expenditures, and payroll).
A helpful clarification was provided on debt service timing: property tax collections create temporary “spikes” in cash on hand before the district makes semi-annual bond payments (typically around mid/late December and again in early summer).
We also confirmed that offsite backup server costs are ongoing subscription services supporting data security and recovery.
Committee updates and scheduling
The scheduled Policy Committee meeting was postponed due to the larger agenda and the time demands of December.
The Transportation/Wellness Committee and Board Meeting were moved to Wednesday, January 21 at 5:00 PM (instead of the previously discussed January 19 date), to avoid conflicts with the non-school day and to support a better timeline for a board vacancy posting.
Principal report highlights
Student behavior referrals are trending downward, with continued focus on explicitly teaching expectations, especially around “hotspot” areas like bus behavior.
Staff will continue “mini resets” after breaks and a more comprehensive full expectations reset when students return in January.
Data patterns noted included higher referral pressure earlier in the week (Mon/Tue) and around lunchtime.
Athletics update
The Board recognized strong participation and development across grade levels, and shared positive results from the basketball season.
Discussion included the value of developing a more consistent coach evaluation/feedback cycle to support coaches (especially newer coaches) and strengthen programs year over year.
Superintendent report and district updates
County Superintendent of Schools report: a useful snapshot of districtwide/countywide data.
Academic achievement: State testing comparisons (roll-alike schools) show Somers–Lakeside performing strongly, generally in the top quartile across tested areas and metrics.
Enrollment trend (countywide pattern): elementary down, middle school relatively flat, high school up—often tied to housing affordability and families moving in later.
Staff experience/retention: the district shows strong retention and a high proportion of veteran staff, which is a positive strength—but also a reminder to plan for eventual retirements.
Sub coverage: average daily staff out has increased as expected through the year; the district is targeting improved fill rates with additional sub onboarding and fingerprinting support.
School board election filing window: open December 11 through February 9 for standard filing; February 10 through March 9 for write-in candidate filing.
Board vacancy: Adam Schilling’s move requires the Board to fill his seat. The Board has a deadline to appoint within the required timeframe (otherwise the county superintendent could appoint). The district will advertise and is considering the skill set most needed (facilities/growth planning was highlighted as a strength Adam brought).
Staffing actions
The Board approved Onica Alfred as a substitute (positive staff feedback shared).
The Board approved the listed winter coaching hires (new and returning).
Budget amendments approved (tax correction)
The Board approved three budget amendments (separate motions) to restore reserve funds that were mistakenly entered as spendable, resulting in taxes not being assessed as intended:
General Fund: $401,568.85
Transportation Fund: $90,675.73
Retirement Fund: $138,215.57
Important clarifications shared during public comment:
The money was never collected—it remained with taxpayers because it was not assessed.
This is a one-time correction to align with what was approved at the August budget meeting (not a new or additional levy beyond what was planned).
The district expressed awareness of the financial pressure in our community and explained why timing and process were handled carefully.
The Board thanked members of the public for engaging respectfully and asking questions.
Cell tower discussion tabled
The Board discussed community concerns about the nearby cell tower and potential health impacts.
Because details about the specific tower type/specs were not available in the meeting, the
Board tabled the item and requested more concrete information before any further discussion or action.
Classified contract negotiations update
A brief update was provided: classified contract negotiations were opened and later closed after receiving legal guidance and confirming the appropriate approach. No action was required at this meeting.
Healthcare agreements approved (Bridged Healthcare Alliance)
The Board approved three separate agreements to participate in the Bridged Healthcare Alliance, a multi-district effort intended to help manage school healthcare costs and support competitive compensation:
Multi-district agreement — approved
Participant agreement — approved
Trust agreement — approved
Staff feedback shared at the meeting reflected broad support and interest, with questions addressed as the process continues.
Adjournment
The Board adjourned after completing all agenda items and reiterated that trustees and district leadership are available for questions.
We would also like to extend a sincere thank you to Adam Schilling for his service, thoughtful participation, and contributions during his time on the Board. His insight – particularly around facilities and long-term growth – was valued, and he will be missed.
Wishing everyone a restful and safe holiday break. Thank you for all you do for our students and community – we look forward to seeing everyone in 2026.
Respectfully submitted,
Chance Barret on behalf of the Somers/Lakeside Board