GRANBY BOARD OF EDUCATION HIGHLIGHTS

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February 4, 2026

Members present: Monica Logan, Donna Nolan, Heather Lombardo, Liz Barlow, Ann Woods, Andrew Billig. Absent: David Peling. Also present: Superintendent Cheri Burke, Assistant Superintendent Jenn Parsons, Director of Finance and Operations Nickie Stevenson, Athletics Director Karl Gates.

Public Comment

Elizabeth Doyle, 79 Stagecoach Road, spoke in support of teachers and their professional judgment in selecting texts for the classroom, noting that they follow established reading guidelines and provide alternatives when appropriate. She emphasized the importance of continuing to trust our teachers.

Michelle Henry, 11 Farmview Lane, shared her appreciation for the efforts of teachers and administrators to maintain open and transparent communication. She recognized the improvements in clarity, the consistent following of proper protocols and stressed the importance of supporting students’ social-emotional well-being in school.

Cathy Watso, 11 Evergreen Drive, expressed her support for and appreciation of the curriculum, teachers and administration, noting that the curriculum incorporates diverse perspectives and helps students relate to different viewpoints and ideas.

Athletics Programs

Athletics Director Karl Gates presented the 2025-26 Granby Public Schools Athletics and Activities report. Burke said she wants to impress upon the board the strong leadership of Gates who is putting in extra hours, is respected by the coaches and brings up new ideas such as e-sports.

Superintendent’s Report

Burke expressed gratitude for the board’s support of the capital programs prioritization and extended thanks to Chris DeGray and Stevenson. She noted that the team has been working diligently on the strategic planning process. She also shared that the budget planning process is well underway and the public is encouraged to attend the meetings. The March 4 meeting will be the first presentation of the budget, March 11 will be the budget workshop, and March 18 will be the final meeting to approve the budget. She noted that our planned budget increase is the lowest number she has heard within CREC this year.