Boyertown Area SD board approves 2026–27 budget, tax relief and FID reauthorization; some members dissent on budget

The Boyertown Area School District board approved a slate of district actions at its May 26 legislative meeting, including the 2026–27 proposed final general fund budget, Homestead/Farmstead property tax relief and a three‑year reauthorization to use Flexible Instruction Days (FID) during emergent conditions.

Budget: Administration recommended approval of the 2026–27 proposed final general fund budget. On a roll‑call vote recorded in the meeting, Miss Nyman, Dr. Weir and Mr. Broofphy voted no; the remaining board members voted yes and the motion carried. Administrators did not provide a detailed line‑item discussion in the legislative meeting beyond the recommendation; board members asking for additional clarifications were promised follow‑up documentation via email.

Tax relief and installments: The board approved the Homestead/Farmstead property tax relief for 2026–27 and approved an installment payment plan for real estate taxes levied for the 2026–27 school year. Votes on both items were unanimous.

FID reauthorization: Administration recommended reauthorizing Flexible Instruction Days — a hybrid remote option used in short, emergent situations such as severe weather — for another three‑year period. The board approved the recommendation by roll call. During earlier discussion, Mrs. Diamond said she opposed FID citing instances where she believes teachers had not returned or corrected student work promptly; administration responded that staff expectations would be addressed if the program continued and emphasized that FID is intended for short, emergent use and must maintain FAPE (free and appropriate public education) commitments.

Consent and other approvals: The board also approved the consent agenda, which included computer‑science and tech ed supply bid awards, a special education service agreement, a confidential settlement, a school nutrition reciprocity agreement, reappointments for board secretary and treasurer, an overnight TSA trip, policy updates (second readings) and several first readings. The Treasurer’s report for April was accepted by unanimous vote.

Personnel and agreements: The board approved 2026–27 special education annual agreements with outside placements and approved the posted personnel agenda. District administrators introduced new hires including an instructional coach and a first‑grade teacher.

What the board will do next: Administration said follow‑up materials — including additional budget clarification and corrections noted during the personnel review — will be provided to board members by email before the next meeting. Upcoming meetings were scheduled for June 9 (finance committee at 6 PM, committee of the whole at 7 PM).