Rhonda Kromm

The Board meeting agenda was approved after moving the Athletics and Activities Report to a later item. The Consent Agenda was approved, with one item regarding the PAEOP Collective Bargaining Agreement moved to the Discussion/Action section. Personnel actions included the employment of several certificated and classified staff members, and one classified resignation. The Board approved several financial items, including vouchers and budget reports, and unanimously approved multiple donations to high school programs (Girls Flag Football, Skills USA Woods Club) and mini-grants from the Clallam County School Retirees' Association, along with an Occupational Therapist Contract Addendum. Presentations covered the Athletics and Activities Report, Lincoln High School updates (including a new Latin motto and goal setting for CSIP), and a detailed Public Records Report. The November Financial Report indicated a strong ending fund balance, noted as the highest in four years, with discussions surrounding state funding increases for Special Education and MSOC. Action items included the approval of the PEOP Collective Bargaining Agreement, committee assignments, and the second reading of several policies pertaining to Superintendent Evaluation and Nondiscrimination.

The meeting included a land acknowledgement to the indigenous lands of Coast Salish peoples, specifically the Klallam Tribe. The board discussed Roosevelt Elementary's space-themed activities, recognized sixth-grade students for their achievements, and highlighted the contributions of peer educators. There was also a discussion about the impact of COVID on second-grade students and the measures being taken to support their learning, including a book study on the art and science of teaching reading.

The meeting included an acknowledgement of tribal lands and the introduction of a student representative for Port Angeles High School. The board accepted the superintendent's letter of retirement, effective in August 2025, and board members shared their appreciation for the superintendent's leadership and commitment to the students and community. The superintendent discussed the community's support for the school district, highlighting the passage of a bond and the significant amount of work happening in the schools.

The presentation to the board addressed financial projections and challenges over the next few years. Key points included the impact of decreased enrollment on revenue, the importance of maintaining a fund balance for cash flow, and the planned use of Esser funds to balance the budget. Discussions also covered the need to decrease expenditures as Esser funds are exhausted, potential legislative fixes such as fully funding special education, and addressing inequities related to regionalization and local epno levies.

The board convened to review candidates for the superintendent position. Motions were made to advance candidates with letters Q, R, Y, and M for semifinalist interviews. The board also discussed the format for the upcoming meeting on February 22nd, including which members will be present in person versus remote and the plan to move between executive and general sessions.