Katelyn Bender

The agenda includes awards and recognitions, various college and board reports, and organizational updates. Key items include the review of March 2026 financial data, the first reading of revised board policies regarding campus sexual assault and drug-free environments, and a vote on the elimination of the Auxiliary Services Fund. Additionally, the Board will consider a Guaranteed Maximum Price amendment for the Transportation Technology project, discuss upcoming events and board leadership for the 26/27 term, and receive updates on the Transportation Technology Center and the Comprehensive Campus Master Plan. An executive session is scheduled for labor negotiations and performance evaluations.

The board participated in a work session focused on the development of a comprehensive college master plan. The discussion included aligning facilities investments with the institutional mission, enrollment goals, and fiscal stewardship. The presentation emphasized shifting from reactive project management to a strategy based on long-term capital investments, providing context on historical campus changes, and outlining future governance actions required for the planning process.

The board meeting included recognition of the institution's receipt of the Buss Rondeau Award and various college and board committee reports. The board addressed multiple action items, including the adoption of policies related to institutional planning and artificial intelligence, the appointment of district budget committee members, and approval of a construction contract amendment. Furthermore, the board approved a new academic program in design and digital media, discussed upcoming legislative advocacy events, and received updates regarding branding, website development, and facility projects. A consent agenda featuring quarterly budget transfers was approved, followed by an executive session focused on labor negotiations.

The board discussed a capital outlay and facilities equipment update, including a review of the Facility Condition Assessment and Facility Condition Indexing processes. The presentation focused on a long-term 30-year renewal plan, the strategic importance of maintenance to protect asset value, and the prioritization of deferred maintenance and facility repairs. Additionally, the board reviewed a detailed five-year plan for facility renewal, capital equipment, and non-renewal campus improvement projects.

The Board of Education discussed the current financial challenges facing the Rogue Valley Transportation District (RBTD), including rising costs for vehicle maintenance, healthcare, and insurance. The presentation addressed the necessity of a proposed transit levy renewal to maintain current service levels and avoid further cuts. The Board and representatives also discussed the impact of service reductions on students and the broader community, the potential for expanding routes if funding is secured through state or local initiatives, and the logistics of upcoming ballot measures.