Amber Warren

The board meeting agenda covers several key operational and policy matters. Business items include the administration of the oath of office for a new board director, the adoption of policies related to physical activity and anaphylaxis prevention, and a discussion regarding the 2026-27 budget and staff salary increases. Additionally, the board will review a playground grant process, attend a state superintendent's conference, discuss a memorial dedication, finalize the 2026-27 school year calendar, and review the superintendent's contract. The meeting also includes a superintendent's report, a budget status update, and an executive session to discuss potential litigation.

The Board discussed a variety of topics, including the first reading of a policy regarding sexual harassment, updates on a board member vacancy, ongoing issues with the district's HVAC system, and preliminary election results for the school levy. New business items included a review of certificated and classified salary comparisons, initial planning for fiscal year budget goals, and approval for an indoor air quality assessment grant. Reports were provided on the superintendent's activities, including legislative updates and calendar planning, as well as a status update on district funds. Additionally, the Board engaged in an executive session for a performance review and held discussions on outdoor recess and student dress code policies.

The meeting addressed several key topics including a request for a formal outdoor recess policy, the superintendent's evaluation procedure, the scheduling of a 'Meet the Board' event, and a review of various district policies. Updates were provided on the board member vacancy, HVAC system repairs, and levy outreach efforts. The board approved the superintendent's attendance at a professional conference, discussed the budget development timeline, and authorized the removal of an unsafe ramp from portable classrooms. Additionally, a report on the upcoming legislative session and a status update on district funds were presented, alongside a brief discussion on classroom attire and legislative advocacy.

The meeting involved several key actions and discussions. The Board addressed changes to the agenda, notably adding a board director's resignation under Unfinished Business and removing the scheduled Executive Session. Following the Consent Agenda, which included approval of the October 15th meeting minutes with several specified amendments, the Board adopted Levy Resolution #11192025, with requests made to update the explanatory statement's title and add current tax rate information. Discussion also occurred regarding seeking community interest for the Pro/Con Committee. New Business included the first reading of Policy 3207 concerning Prohibition of Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying of Students, with requested language amendments. Three School Improvement Plan goals for the 2025-26 academic year were presented for review: improving reading proficiency, increasing math proficiency, and strengthening school climate. The Board approved a $1,500 cost-share agreement with Skamania County Fire District #5 to clear and gravel a gravel path to the fire station for emergency preparedness. Superintendent goals were also reviewed. Finally, the Board agreed to approve the installation of a handwashing sink in the kitchen pending confirmation from the health inspector that it meets code requirements, and formally accepted the resignation of Board Director Cynthia Dominik Medlin, effective January 1, 2026. Superintendent reports covered HVAC issues with Par Tech Construction, teacher evaluations status, advocacy for full MSOC funding at the Legislative Forum, and updates on grant applications and recent community events.

The meeting included the approval of bills and payroll, noting General Funds checks totaling $33,791.35 and Payroll/Benefits checks totaling $134,321.21. Under unfinished business, Policy 3207 (Prohibition of Harassment, Intimidation and Bullying of Students) was adopted following a second reading. The board also requested that Policies 5011 and 6513 be added to the January agenda for discussion. An update on the HVAC insurance review was provided. New business covered the development of a procedure for the Superintendent's Evaluation and the approval of three long-term substitute contracts. The annual board reorganization included the appointment of Donald Collins as Board Chair and Lisa Young as Vice Chair, followed by the administration of the Oath of Office for re-elected Directors Donald and Jeremy. The board agreed to host the annual "Meet the Board" event during Literacy Night on March 26. Reports included Superintendent updates on the 2026-27 calendar, the status of the Comprehensive Safety Plan update, and the budget status report showing current fund balances. The board entered a 10-minute executive session to discuss a performance review before adjourning.