The Upper Adams School Board spent much of its May 19 meeting focused on district finances, staffing changes, and concerns from community members about employee morale and contract negotiations.
Two residents used public comment to voice concern about staff retention and district leadership. One presenter expressed disappointment over the resignation of Director of Student Services Ryan Gerber, questioning what his departure might signal about morale in the district. Another strongly defended district teachers and administrators, urging the board to reach a fair teacher contract agreement and warning against losing respected educators.
Board members formally acknowledged Gerber’s resignation later in the meeting, thanking him for his service while approving the posting of his replacement. Additional personnel actions included resignations from a high school social studies teacher and a middle school English teacher, along with approval to advertise those vacancies. Retirements included several longtime employees, including administrative assistant Lois Swope after 30 years and secretary Melissa Widner after 23 years.
Business manager Courtney Hobbs presented the proposed 2026-27 budget, which currently includes a preliminary 4.9% tax increase, the maximum allowed under the district’s index without seeking exceptions. Hobbs said the district’s projected budget shortfall would be about $1.27 million under that plan, though possible increases in state funding could significantly reduce the shortfall. She outlined several scenarios involving tax increases, state aid assumptions, and use of fund balance reserves.
Hobbs also reported that the district expects to end the current fiscal year in a stronger position than originally projected. A variance initially budgeted at $1.8 million is now expected to fall to roughly $346,000 due to additional state funding and lower-than-anticipated expenditures. The board approved the preliminary budget, noting it can reduce the tax increase later but cannot exceed the preliminary amount once advertised.
The board approved several financial items, including software contracts, tax collection agreements, security services, and transportation software. Lunch prices for 2026-27 will remain unchanged. Administrators reported current student lunch debt at $43,267, up about $3,400 since September.
The board also approved continued permitting work tied to the proposed athletic field turf project, authorizing an additional engineering expense of roughly $8,800 to revise environmental documents related to soil handling. Board member Matthew Lustig voted against the measure, questioning whether the work was necessary now if the overall project is still uncertain.
In reports, district leaders highlighted recent events including the ESL family night, student concerts, prom, and teacher appreciation week. Board members praised the district’s ESL program and music offerings.
The Canner Foundation announced a 22% increase in grant funding this year, with $19,500 budgeted for classroom grants. Board members also received an overview of the district’s preschool and Head Start partnership program.