Jennifer Kiracofe

The Continuous Improvement Plan for Coeur d'Alene Public Schools, adopted in May 2023 after community input, aims to ensure students become lifelong learners and responsible citizens, positioning the district as a high-achieving choice in Idaho and the Northwest. The plan focuses on key areas including student achievement and growth, ensuring all students are college and career ready, and prepared for transitions between educational stages. It emphasizes literacy proficiency and growth, and robust college and career advising and mentoring programs.

The meeting was convened to discuss boundary line adjustments between Coeur d'Alene School District 271 and Lakeland School District 272, focusing on a boundary proposal presentation. The proposal involves incorporating the Hayden Canyon development into the Lakeland District and including an area near Atlas Elementary into the Coeur d'Alene District. The superintendents from both districts support the proposal. A survey and revised legal descriptions will be submitted to both boards for approval before petitioning the State Board. Discussions also covered the zoning of vacant land for commercial and residential use and the projected values of the acreage involved in the swap.

The meeting addressed several important topics, including the Board Handbook revisions, governance, and a discussion about transitioning to a full-day kindergarten model. The potential costs, funding options, and space considerations for full-day kindergarten were examined, including the possible use of federal stimulus funds. The board also discussed a transition plan to move to a 5-day in-person K-12 schedule, with a phased approach involving considerations for safety, mask policies, and blended learning frameworks. The use of Schoology for online learning and assignments was also addressed.

The meeting included recognition of the Coeur d'Alene Press for their partnership with the district and Communications Director Scott Maben. High School Student Body Reports highlighted student involvement in fundraisers and donations. The SAG Report introduced students representing each level. The CEA President discussed the upcoming CAPPS team meeting. The Finance Report covered the current year budget, CARES funds, and proposed changes by the Governor. Assessment/Student Achievement data was presented for PSAT, National Merit Exam, and SAT. An update was provided on the return to in-person learning and quarantine procedures. Policies related to sexual harassment, discrimination, and retaliation were approved. Graduation requirements and high school schedules were discussed, with an update forthcoming. Policies for information were presented for public review.

The meeting included a public hearing on the 2021-2022 budget, during which the finance director presented information on the decreasing fund balance due to a reduction in state revenue and additional relief funds. Funding changes based on enrollment versus attendance were discussed, and a revenue decrease was projected. Board members agreed on the need for classified staff, especially bus drivers, to receive a salary increase. There was also a review of school health services, with highlights from the school year presented, including the work of nurses in managing health-related issues and their involvement in pandemic-related activities.