American Falls School District 381

The board approved a consent agenda covering financial statements, student account balances, personnel resignations and hires, overnight travel for student activities, and the purchase of various capital objects including 3D printing equipment and an interactive table. The superintendent provided reports on STEM program donations, the Google Play Lab initiative for families, community opportunity updates, and recent campus facility matters. Action items resulted in the approval of a one-year contract for the superintendent, a new debit card agreement with the Bank of Commerce, an updated school district calendar for the 2026-2027 academic year, the trade-in of agricultural welding machines, a teacher authorization, and an early graduation request.

The board discussed and approved a Reduction in Force proposal involving staff position shifts, transitions between full-time and part-time status, and position eliminations. Additionally, the board approved a change to the date and time of the upcoming regular board meeting.

The meeting commenced with the approval of the agenda. The Consent Agenda, which was approved unanimously, covered numerous items including financial statements, payment of bills, and personnel actions like resignations, terminations, and new hires. During discussion of the financial statement, the Superintendent noted that while salaries and benefits were on track, there was a projected need to cut $500,000 from the budget due to declining enrollment. Information items included a presentation by the FFA Ag Issues team and the Superintendent's report on the legislative session, noting that no educational funding cuts were anticipated for the current or next fiscal year. Action items involved the first and second readings of several policy updates, including those concerning virtual instruction, reduction in force, and federal grant fund procurement. The Board also approved the Plant Facility Resolution, the William Thomas Middle School bleacher installation quote, and made an amendment to the 2026-2027 school calendar. The session concluded with an Executive Session to discuss student discipline and personnel matters.

The key actions during the special meeting included the approval of a Plant Facility Levy increase by 5% each year beginning in the second year. The Board also entered into Executive Session, as per Idaho Code 74-206(b), to discuss student discipline concerning Student A. Following the Executive Session, the Board took action to not expel Student A, contingent upon the parents scheduling an appointment with a counselor within the next week and ensuring counseling continues for the subsequent 12 months.

The meeting commenced with the swearing in of newly elected trustees. The organization of the board was maintained, confirming the existing Chairman, Vice-Chair, and Clerk. The board approved the annual calendar for January 2026 through January 2027. Key items approved under the consent agenda included personnel changes (resignations, terminations, and new hires), financial statements, and capital acquisitions funded by CTE ICRS Grant funds, such as cameras and welding equipment. Action items included approving the first reading of Policy Update 4, approving the review of annual policies, appointing Charity Hunt to the Sick Leave Bank, and approving a resolution for Debbie Critchfield regarding grant reinstatement assistance.