grading system. The faculty has suggested an amendment to add an A+ to the grading range that already includes B+ and C+, both in the interests of consistency and fairness. Dr. Donohue explained how this would also be an appropriate change from the perspective of the colleges to which Byram Hills students apply.

Facilities Updates
The Classroom and Core Facilities Project continues to move toward actual construction, which is already underway at the high school. The Board accepted bid recommendations on the work at Coman Hill, and expects to act upon recommendations for the work at Wampus and H.C. Crittenden by the beginning of July, so the work at all four schools will be under way before the summer is out. Representatives from Triton Construction, the District's construction management consultants, outlined the subsequent steps which will culminate in completion of the project at three of the schools (BHHS, CH, WA) by September 2006, with the fourth school (HCC) to following shortly thereafter.

Turning to an update on the Athletic Facilities Project, the May 17 voter authorization for the use of $1.6MM from reserves now allows the project to go forward toward completion. Bid awards are targeted for July 1.

Kindergarten for September 2005
Returning to a subject discussed at other points during the school year, the administration recommended the addition of an eleventh section for September 2005 Kindergarten enrollment. Two more portable

classrooms will be placed on site this summer to accommodate the necessary space, even while new construction gets under way.

Other Business
The Board reviewed several policies, which were accepted as a first reading.

Staff Reports
Staff reports included the superintendent's thanks to the school community for the May 17 Budget Vote. Mr. Chambers also called attention to his letter, mailed to all District parents, debunking the Newsweek Magazine ranking of high schools.

Dr. Taylor updated the Board on progress toward staffing for
2005-06.

Mr. Carlson reported that the refinancing of existing bond debt was complete, resulting in expected savings totaling some $1.1MM over the life of the bond.

Board Reports
Board reports included another thank you to the community for the May 17 results, and discussion of the proposed Board Meeting Calendar for 2005-06.

Foundation Grant
While a larger set of Foundation Grant proposals is expected before the end of June, the Board accepted one brought forth at this meeting, in the amount of $11,325 to fund the "Schools Attuned" Program (Dr. Mel Levine's training on support to student learning needs), with thanks to the Foundation for its generosity.
The Board adjourned from the

public meeting to discuss several items appropriate to executive session.

COMING ATTRACTIONS
June 7-7:30 p.m.-D.O.
Summary Report on Progress Toward Goals, Foundation Grants

**CaTV20 NOTE:**
Board meetings are now being aired on our new cable channel (no longer 18), as follows:

• Sunday-8:00 a.m.
  
• Tuesday-midnight
  
• Wednesday-5:00 p.m.
  
• Thursday-11:00 a.m.
  
• Friday-11:00 a.m.