Jennifer Collins

The Banks School District Wellness Plan outlines a comprehensive approach to making student and staff wellness a district priority. It focuses on promoting physical, emotional, and social wellness through nine focal areas: School Health and Safety, Health Education, Physical Education, Nutrition Services, Health Services, Counseling/Psychological/Social Services, Health Promotion for Students, Health Promotion for Staff, and Family and Community Involvement. The plan sets annual goals to achieve these objectives, including implementing wellness fairs, evaluating initiatives, enhancing communication, pursuing funding, improving nutrition environments, and encouraging community engagement in healthy lifestyles.

The meeting included recognition of the School Board for School Board Appreciation Month, highlighting their roles in setting the district vision, adopting a responsible budget, and implementing policy, such as the early adoption of the cell phone policy. Student leadership provided updates on various clubs, including drama, FAD, FFA, and robotics, and sports activities. Preparations for the upcoming Winter Formal, themed 'Viva Las Vegas,' were discussed, along with the associated themed spirit days for the short week. The Superintendent provided updates on the timeline for his annual evaluation based on strategic plan implementation and staff surveys. A significant discussion covered the recent bidding process for the high school project, indicating preliminary results suggest no immediate need for scope reduction or value engineering. Furthermore, participation in committees, including the Bond Management Team and the contract review committee for the certified union, was addressed. The finance report confirmed property tax revenues were received largely as estimated, and the final 2024-2025 audit rates were determined. Transparency regarding a recent, helpful donation of a 2023 Nissan pickup truck was noted. Discussions also touched upon legislative priorities, specifically addressing the impact of trauma related to immigration on students.

The meeting began with the approval of the agenda. Key discussion items included a Social Emotional Learning activity using a breathing exercise video created by a student. The major focus was the Bond Update, covering restroom design considerations (including privacy and ADA compliance), the overall timeline, and the communication plan detailing upcoming reports, newsletters, and community meetings. Specific timeline details mentioned the start of abatement and moving items on December 15th. Board members discussed suggestions such as adding "Construction" to website titles and ensuring adequate signage for temporary restrooms. The second major discussion concerned legislative priorities for the 2026 short session, focusing on State and Federal budgets. Topics included budget funding streams, the impact of the CAT tax, unfunded mandates, and the potential need for a Special Session on January 27th, 2026, when the budget is delivered in January.

The Banks School District Board Work Session included discussions on the City of Banks Urban Renewal Agency amendment, with a focus on the inclusion of public art and the district's support through a resolution. An update was provided on the OSAA reclassification proposal, considering a return to the 4A level and its impact on competition and travel. The Bond Update covered the progress of bond projects, including modular classrooms, electrical work, demolition preparations, and the preservation of historical items. The timeline and budget for these projects were also reviewed.

The meeting included discussions on various topics, such as clubs, sports, NHS, Make a Wish, assemblies, pep rallies, and winter formal. There was a presentation by Banks High ASB. The board recognized the custodial staff for their work. There were also financial reports, updates on enrollment numbers, and discussions about timber dollars and expenses. The board approved a resolution for the Bay School District and nominated and supported candidates for various OSBA board positions. Closing remarks included reminders about fall break and upcoming events.