Dasha Berry

The meeting included various recognitions, such as a musical performance by high school students and commendations for staff service and district academic achievements. The board approved an emergency declaration for school damages, bid awards for field and parking improvements and a support services generator, and the adoption of new instructional materials for English language learners. Additionally, the board acted on the adoption of several district policies.

The board discussed several business matters, including the declaration of an emergency for Mountain View Middle School damages and the approval of bid awards for the Donald Eismann Elementary School field and parking project, as well as the support services generator project. The agenda included a budget status report, the adoption of new instructional materials for English Language Learners, and the review and adoption of various district policies. Additionally, the meeting featured project status updates on local high school developments, the child nutrition department, the Strong Minds, Kind Hearts initiative, and an annual report on the asset preservation program.

The meeting agenda focused on the 2024 Bond Projects, providing general information, and conducting a project-by-project update. Key discussion points included the overall 2024 Bond Projects Budget, assessment of risks such as economic factors and permit timing, and identified opportunities like early bid packages and outreach to local businesses. Detailed updates were provided for several projects: Bonney Lake High School Expansion and Intersection, Sumner High School Master Plan (including Phase II and West Building), New Middle School @ Tehaleh, Daffodil Valley Elementary Field Improvements, Donald Eismann Elementary Parking, Queuing and Field Improvements, Crestwood Elementary Improvements, Liberty Ridge Elementary Improvements, and Tehaleh Heights Elementary Expansion. Committee business included reviewing requests from a previous Board of Control (BOC) meeting, outlining the structure for the Annual Community/School Board Report, and discussing key findings related to fund appropriateness, risks, project progression, and communication effectiveness. Future items included a preview of the next meeting scheduled for January 26, 2026.

The session focused on the role of school counseling services within the district's strategic plan, emphasizing social-emotional safety, engagement, and support for every student. Discussions detailed the evolution of school counseling from reactive services to a data-driven framework utilizing the ASCA National Model, which integrates academic, career, and social-emotional development goals. Presentations highlighted specific initiatives, including a Swahili language group ("Rafiki group," meaning friend) designed to increase feelings of safety and belonging among students with African heritage, which resulted in a notable decrease in behavior referrals for one student. Another focus area was the Emotional Regulation Peer Leaders Club, which paired kindergarteners with second graders using the Character Strong curriculum to improve emotional regulation skills, leading to decreased disciplinary referrals among kindergarten participants. Furthermore, the discussion covered data-driven efforts at the high school level, specifically targeting McKenna Vento (homeless) and foster youth, aiming to address academic struggles such as failing classes or delayed graduation.

The meeting began with the excusal of Kevin Lewis and included presentations from student representatives detailing upcoming school events such as 'Pack the Gym,' a robotics fair, and an art fair. A significant portion of the meeting involved recognizing newly appointed National Board Certified Teachers and their facilitators. Board members provided extensive commentary regarding observations from a recent robotics study session, highlighting student engagement, collaboration, and the intentional introduction of robotics in middle school. Comments also covered experiences at community engagement events like 'Sumner University,' a spaghetti feed, a visit to B Lake Elementary School, a youth forum, and a Center High School ISD program. The Superintendent also commented on positive external recognition received via social media regarding the district's focus on students. The board then moved to audience comments, which included concerns about prior student walkouts on a closed campus, alleged law violations, and perceived shifts in curriculum focus.