Audit and finance briefing: bond payment noted, overtime down; staffing updates outline resignation incentives

The board heard the district's annual financial review overview and a financial briefing from Chief Financial Officer Mr. Hines, followed by a staffing update from Chief of Staff Mrs. Beck.

Doctor McDowell introduced KSO CPAs and thanked the auditor. In the consent‑agenda discussion McDowell highlighted a bond payment listed in claims: "$1,688,479.62" for the high school bond payment. CFO Mr. Hines said December revenues are roughly 2.92% above 2024, noting the figure includes loan proceeds. He highlighted notable reductions in overtime spending year‑over‑year across several months and explained the district's upcoming budget calendar and the anticipated February release of preliminary 2026–27 state aid numbers.

Mrs. Beck updated the board on staffing: she reviewed certified and classified position postings, noted that some hires are contingent on grant funding (for example, a 6–12 literacy coach position dependent on grant approval), and summarized use of an early voluntary separation incentive (tiers of $1,000, $800 and $400) with recent participation numbers and historical hiring totals.

Board members had no substantive questions on the audit presentation at tonight's meeting. CFO Hines and staff said they will continue budget planning and return to the board with preliminary numbers later in the spring.