The Keene Board of Education held a meeting on February 1, 2025, to discuss several important articles related to the district's budget and collective bargaining agreements. The meeting began with a vote on Article 2, which was successfully adopted and will be included on the March ballot. This article pertains to funding for various cost items.

Following this, the board addressed Article 3, which allows the Board of Education to call a special meeting if Article 2 is defeated. This provision would enable the board and the union to present renegotiated cost items to voters in time for the 2025-2026 fiscal year. The motion to adopt Article 3 passed without opposition.

The meeting then moved to a motion regarding the restriction of reconsideration for the articles discussed, which also passed.

Lastly, the board reviewed Article 4, which involves the approval of cost items in a collective bargaining agreement with the Keene Paraprofessional Association. This agreement includes proposed increases in salaries and benefits for paraprofessionals at the current staffing level.

Overall, the meeting progressed smoothly, with all articles moving forward as planned, reflecting the board's commitment to addressing financial and staffing needs within the district. Further discussions and decisions will continue in upcoming meetings as the board prepares for the March ballot.