Administrative Business
The Board unanimously approved both the evening’s agenda and the consent agenda. The consent agenda included approval of minutes from the September 11 meeting, expenditures totaling $595,111.27, and the resignations of Melanie Erickson and Mckenna Littiebrant.
Public Comment
A student from Montague High School addressed the Board, requesting a return of white caps and gowns as an option for graduation attire—non-gender-specific and based on student choice. The student noted strong peer support for this change and shared a signed petition from classmates, urging a decision before upcoming order deadlines.
Reports
Auditor Report
Mike Vredeveld from Vredeveld Haefner, LLC presented the district’s 2024–2025 financial audit. The audit received a clean opinion, indicating compliance and fiscal responsibility. The general fund ended the year with an unassigned balance of approximately $1.5 million and an increase of $77,000. Prior food service balance issues were resolved, and the district remains in good standing. Superintendent Jeff Johnson and Board members thanked Business Manager Stacy Kaminski for her extensive work during the audit process.
FFA Report
Three Montague FFA officers—Jenna Woller, Dane Roesler, and Elle Moran—shared an enthusiastic presentation highlighting the chapter’s achievements and 2025–26 calendar of events.
Key highlights included:
- Montague’s FFA chapter ranks #1 in Michigan and Top 25 nationally.
- The chapter celebrates its 95th anniversary this year.
- Members participated in major community service efforts such as beach cleanups, “Giving to Goats” tree recycling, and food packaging with the Muskegon Rescue Mission.
- Academic and competitive success included 31 state competitors, multiple first-place finishes, and national qualifiers.
- Upcoming events include the Broiler Contest (Oct. 21), National Convention (Oct. 29–31), and Drive Your Tractor to School Day (Oct. 17).
The Board commended the students and their advisor, Ms. Kaminski, for their excellence and community involvement.
Principal “Meaningful Minute” Updates
Principals from across the district reported on student activities and instructional progress:
- Elementary: Recent highlights included a spooky field trip, fire prevention visits, and a successful Harvest Lunch with FFA support. Teachers have been collaborating through “learning walks” to share best practices in literacy instruction.
- NBC Middle School: Completed NWEA testing and introduced rotating electives for sixth graders, including exposure to band, choir, art, and STEM. Sports seasons are wrapping up with high participation, and robotics teams are preparing for November competitions.
- High School: Students were recognized for academic excellence with a new “Students of the Month” program. The golf team won its first-ever conference, city, and regional championships and advanced to the state tournament. The equestrian team placed third at state, a school record. New student clubs—including Yoga, Slam Poetry, and Esports—are expanding extracurricular options. Attendance rates are improving, with 98% of student grades passing.
Superintendent Comments
Superintendent Johnson highlighted several key updates:
- Enrollment: Student count is 1,268, slightly down from last year but 42 students above budgeted projections.
- State Budget: The district will receive $10,050 per pupil, with a 25% increase in at-risk funds and expanded free GSRP preschool access.
- Athletics: Commended both the golf and equestrian teams for historic finishes.
- Events: Recognized the success of the annual Wildcat Salute, including a flyover and parachute drop coordinated by Jackie Wood and the events team.
New Business Actions
The Board approved the following motions unanimously:
- 2024–2025 Financial Audit – Accepted as presented.
- FFA 2025–26 Calendar of Events – Approved, maintaining the same schedule as the previous year.
- Annual Summer Tax Resolution – Renewed for the summer of 2026 for the City of Montague and White River Township.
- Collection Agreements for Summer Taxes – Renewed agreements at a rate of $3 per parcel, consistent since 2011.
- MASB Delegate Assembly Authorization – Designated Karen Neubauer as delegate and Amanda Dahl as alternate.
- Overnight Athletic Trips – Approved travel for:
- Varsity Girls Golf Team to Big Rapids for the Division 4 State Championship (Oct. 16–18).
- Varsity Cross Country Team to Brooklyn, MI, for the State Finals (Oct. 31–Nov. 1).
he October 13 meeting showcased Montague’s academic, athletic, and extracurricular success. From an exemplary audit to a nationally ranked FFA chapter and innovative classroom learning, the district continues to demonstrate financial responsibility, student growth, and community engagement.
Montague Area Public Schools Board Recap – September 8, 2025
