Chris Haugen

The meeting featured a presentation on school improvement plans for Everson, Sumas, and Nooksack elementary schools, focusing on student growth, expressive language, and systemic supports. The Board approved the hire of an evening custodian and a temporary leave for a teacher. Additionally, the Board authorized Resolution No. 10 to extend the Capital Projects Fund budget for the turf field project and approved new policies regarding the evaluation of the superintendent. The Superintendent provided an update on the current budget status and projected fund balances, and the Board approved the payment of payroll and vouchers for various funds.

This plan outlines strategies for academic and student well-being recovery for the Nooksack Valley School District. It focuses on implementing universal supports for all students, utilizing diagnostic assessments to identify specific academic and well-being needs, and developing strategic interventions for identified student groups based on equity analysis. The plan also emphasizes incorporating student and family voice in its development to enhance academic growth and overall well-being.

The board discussed and took action on several items, including the approval of employment contracts for the 2025-2026 school year, the acceptance of staff resignations with gratitude, and the surplus of two aging school vans. The board approved the 2025-2026 Highly Capable District Plan and received reports regarding the Washington School Improvement Framework, the progress of the Turf Field project, and legislative updates. Additionally, the board approved payment for various fund vouchers, held an executive session for a performance evaluation, and authorized a contract extension for the Superintendent through the 2028-2029 school year.

The board meeting included communications regarding high school Capstone projects and the district Scholarship Foundation. The board approved multiple temporary leave requests and accepted several staff retirements. A presentation was delivered on the Nooksack Valley Middle School Improvement Plan, highlighting student growth, intervention support systems, and social-emotional learning curricula. Additionally, the board approved Resolution No. 11 for a General Fund Warrant, the 2026-2027 Whatcom County Detention Center Interlocal Agreement, and the payment of various vouchers and payroll.

The special board meeting included an Executive Session to discuss a personnel issue. The board formally accepted the resignation of Keith Klein, Custodial/Ground District Wide. A significant agenda item involved the review and approval of the turf field bid, where the contract was awarded to Tarkett/FieldTurf due to their bid being approximately $200,000 lower than the alternative. Additionally, the board reviewed mandatory changes to Policy 2020P with no formal action taken.