Board receives brief finance update, approves consent calendar and OpenStax physics text

The Cheshire Board of Education unanimously approved the consent calendar and a curriculum committee motion to adopt an OpenStax physics resource for high school physics, while receiving a short finance briefing.

Chair (speaker 5) called for approval of the consent calendar; Mister Aki moved the motion and the board voted unanimous approval. Miss Cullinan (speaker 13) summarized the curriculum committee recommendation for OpenStax Physics for High School, noting the resource is online and free; the district will purchase hardcover books where students have accessibility needs (504 or IEP plans). Julie Barker was identified as department chair and available to answer technical questions. A motion to purchase the resource (and limited hard copies) was made and the board approved unanimously.

Emily Taylor (speaker 17) delivered a brief finance report: as of May 31 the district had spent $90,149,556, which she said represented 96.8% of the budget; staff are closing purchase orders and preparing for end‑of‑year closeout. The medical benefits report was not available at the time and will be provided in the second week of the month. Board members asked clarifying questions about encumbrances and the timing of payroll and reported that the district is on track for year‑end closeout.

The Board recorded the various unanimous votes and moved on to planning and facility items.