Laure Quaresma

This strategic plan update for Athena Weston School District reviews progress across four core cornerstones: Excellence, Citizenship, Community, and Lifelong Learning. Key areas of focus include enhancing academic performance in reading and math, supporting student social-emotional development, and maintaining high graduation rates through targeted interventions and curriculum. The plan also prioritizes student safety through robust protocols and mental health support, strengthens community communication and engagement, and fosters critical thinking, STEM education, and adaptability to emerging technologies like AI. It reflects a comprehensive approach to student success and community involvement.

The board meeting centered on a bond proposal presentation and a recap of the Community Bond Advisory Committee's work over the past year. Key discussion topics included the increase of state grant funding to 10.2 million dollars, which allowed for a re-evaluation of project scopes. The committee reviewed the proposed grade level configurations, shifting prek and lower grades to the Weston campus and grades 6 through 12 to the Athena campus, and discussed the community feedback received through open houses and surveys. The committee recommended the efficiency plus option for the bond proposal due to concerns regarding the high tax burden of a long-term investment option, with a focus on expanding CTE classroom space and athletic facility improvements.

The board meeting included a review of district talking points, facilities reports, and detailed updates from the preschool, elementary school, middle school, and high school programs. Key topics included student achievements, graduation rates, extracurricular activity highlights, and end-of-year celebrations. The board also reviewed enrollment data and discussed attendance trends, intervention strategies, and attendance contract policies.

The meeting included reports on attendance initiatives and ESD support, as well as facilities updates regarding new track lighting and repairs to the high jump area. Transportation updates focused on preventive maintenance for the bus fleet and addressing scheduling challenges. The preschool program reported 100% attendance and a new garden ribbon-cutting, while elementary school updates highlighted the implementation of fourth-grade ambassador roles and a new partnership for a book club. The middle school showcased student achievements in art and upcoming safety drills. The high school discussed homecoming activities, the application for a CTE revitalization grant, and a proposal to hold graduation one hour earlier. Additionally, the food service team provided an update on menu offerings and their participation in the farm-to-school program.

The board discussed talking points regarding instructional hours for K-12 schools in Oregon in relation to executive orders, reviewed the mascot card income, and received presentations on preschool and elementary school activities, including garden programs and student field trips.