Megan Kellow

The special board meeting convened and immediately entered an Executive Session under ORS 192.660 (2)(h) to consult with legal counsel. The Chair noted that no decision was expected during this session, and any required public vote would occur after returning to open session, though the Board ultimately took no action upon concluding the Executive Session.

The agenda for the Regular Monthly Board Meeting includes an Executive Session to consult with counsel regarding current or likely litigation. Key topics for the regular session cover presentations on the NWRESD Local Service Plan and a Charity Drive. Special reports include updates from the Superintendent, Finance, Associations, and Board Members. Action items involve passing Resolution 2026-03 to approve the NWRESD Local Service Plan, approving SIA Grant Agreements for the District and Trask River HS, approving a revision to the 2025/26 School Calendar due to weather, and correcting Policy IKF regarding Graduation Requirements. Discussion items include recognizing School Board Appreciation Month and addressing a Budget Committee Vacancy.

The key discussion centered on declaring an emergency due to significant and unforeseen flooding at South Prairie Elementary School that occurred on December 18, 2025. In accordance with Policy DJC regarding Emergency Procurements, the Board of Directors acted as the Local Contract Review Board (LCRB) and passed a resolution to declare the emergency. The resolution authorized the interim superintendent and the Finance Director as designees to authorize emergency procurement for restoration-related functions, emphasizing the need for prompt execution to complete repairs by January 2nd. There was also discussion regarding coordination with the insurance company and organizing community volunteers to assist with moving furniture back into classrooms.

The meeting included an executive session. Superintendent Ellis provided a statement regarding the 11/18/24 complaint and action steps to address issues within the report, including OSAA self-report of violations, associate head coach, admin/AD to support transition back to regular play, and review of protocols/procedures and potential changes. Chair Lachenmeier will seek ideas on ways to improve systemic deficiencies. The Board will not weigh in on the personnel matter.

The meeting included an ASB report, comments from the audience, and a presentation on a day in the life of a 6th grader. Special reports included the Superintendent and Finance reports, as well as association and board member reports. The board considered revising the 2025/26 school calendar, adopting a budget calendar for the 2026/27 budgeting process, and establishing a school support fee rate. They also discussed OSBA elections and had a first reading of a policy. Additional discussion items included the next board meeting date, a budget committee vacancy, and a schools food drive.