Scott Sandberg

This document outlines the discussions of the Facilities Study Group for the Ephrata School District, focused on developing a bond recommendation for future educational facility needs. The group's purpose is to understand the current situation, evaluate existing infrastructure, and identify future facility requirements. Key priorities, informed by community and staff surveys, include improving elementary schools (Grant and Parkway), the high school, student safety, and gymnasiums. It also explores various project scenarios and funding options. The planning timeline extends from October 2024 to a possible bond election in February 2026, with the bond's financial implications extending to 2045, supporting long-term student success and accommodating future growth.

The board conducted a closed executive session to evaluate the performance of a public employee and discuss their contract. Following the executive session, the board reconvened in open session and delegated responsibility to the Board Chair to provide a formal written response to a received complaint.

The board discussed a public hearing regarding the closure of Beezley Springs Elementary and subsequently moved to approve the closure. The agenda included the approval of several personnel hires, acceptance of donations for Grant and Parkway Intermediate schools, and the review of accounts payable and payroll. A critical policy regarding the prohibition of sexual harassment of staff underwent a second reading. Additionally, the board approved the purchase of 500 student Chromebooks, the delegation of authority to WIAA, the superintendent contract for 2026-2029, and various independent contractor contracts for special services. The meeting also featured a budget report, a superintendent report, and the first reading of policies related to mastery-based credit opportunities and a discrimination-free workplace.

The board meeting included recognitions for various school team successes, including cheer, wrestling, HOSA, FFA, LEGO robotics, and math teams. Action items approved involved several staff hires, receipt of donations for Parkway Intermediate, approval of three new school bus purchases, a grant application for playground equipment at Columbia Ridge, the purchase of a new computer lab for Ephrata High School, and a five-year copier lease renewal. The board also reviewed reports regarding roof repair timelines, bond measure follow-up, school leadership transitions, and impacts of recent state legislative sessions on district funding and bus depreciation.

The board conducted a closed executive session to evaluate the performance of a public employee and consider their contract as permitted under state law. No formal action was taken during this session before the meeting was adjourned.