MariAnell Barton

The meeting began with a moment of silence in recognition of the passing of Aaron Brewer. Key discussion points included the presentation and discussion of the Alpaca staff survey tool, which is designed to gather immediate, anonymous feedback on staff health, wellness, and self-care to inform school improvement and climate initiatives. Subsequently, the board received the Fiscal Year 2025 audit report. The auditor confirmed an unmodified opinion. Financial highlights noted that the district's total net position increased by $3.7 million. Significant increase in compensated absences was attributed to the change in auditing standards (GASB 101) requiring the inclusion of sick leave. The audit also noted a cash deficit for the school lunch fund, which is slated for resolution in the subsequent audit year. Capital asset reporting showed construction in progress, primarily for the new Blanding Elementary School.

The meeting included discussions and updates on tribal consultation, focusing on meetings with the Navajo Nation and the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe. Key topics included data sharing, program updates, and collaborative efforts to support Native American students. Additionally, students presented a request to attend the Katka Forum in Washington D.C., to build drug-free communities and empower youth.

The meeting included discussions on mandatory training for district employees, covering topics such as grammar, bloodborne pathogens, bullying, cyberbullying, harassment, child abuse prevention, human trafficking, code of conduct, cyber security, employee ethics, FERPA, fire extinguishers, seizures, Title 9, and suicide prevention. The board also discussed a new hotline training requirement from the US Board of Education, aimed at establishing a process for individuals to report alleged violations of statute or board rule. Additionally, the board reviewed a policy outlining a framework for schools to recognize and regulate student organizations, including curricular and non-curricular clubs, application processes, rules, and limitations.

The board meeting included discussions regarding the use of Northshore Learning for consultant services. The selection of a new business administrator for the 2025-26 and 2026-27 school years was announced, with Jacob Swanson accepting the position and set to begin training in July. The board discussed the contract for the new business administrator in a closed session, and later approved the appointment and the attached contract. The next board meeting is scheduled for June 17, 2025.

The meeting included a spotlight report on the district's work, focusing on monumental purpose, goal setting, and rock-solid best practices. Jacob Swanson was officially sworn in as the new business administrator. The board reviewed the San Juan School District data report for 2024-2025 and the early learning plan for 2025-2026, which included literacy and math goals. There was a discussion on the positive behaviors plan, addressing peer pressure, mental health issues, and building meaningful relationships for students.