The Derby School Board convened on August 4, 2025, to address several key agenda items, primarily focusing on employee benefits and committee approvals.

The meeting commenced with a motion to approve the previous meeting's minutes, which passed unanimously with a vote of 7-0. The board then moved on to discuss employee benefits for the 2025-2026 year, specifically health insurance renewals. The benefits committee presented their recommendations following a meeting held on July 31, where they reviewed insurance options for the upcoming benefit year starting January 1, 2026.

The committee recommended renewing health insurance with Blue Cross and Blue Shield, which will see an approximate increase of 11.5%. Additionally, dental insurance with Delta Dental will experience a 5% increase. Other insurance renewals, including vision and disability, will remain unchanged in terms of premiums. The committee also proposed a defined contribution for health insurance, setting the new benefit amounts at $675 for employees, $11.16 for spouses, $11.16 for children, and $13.55 for family coverage. This plan aims to minimize the increase in out-of-pocket expenses for employees, with no individual increase exceeding $40.

The board expressed appreciation for the efforts made by the benefits committee and the IBB team, highlighting the collaborative spirit during the negotiations. A motion to approve the insurance renewals and the defined contribution recommendation was made and passed unanimously.

Following the benefits discussion, Superintendent Heather Bohati presented updates on board committees. The board reviewed and approved the latest committee assignments, ensuring alignment with the district's strategic plan.

Lastly, the board discussed upcoming workshop topics for a meeting scheduled on September 29, which also received unanimous approval.

The meeting concluded with all agenda items addressed and approved, reflecting a productive session focused on enhancing employee benefits and strategic planning for the district.