Dufur School District 29

This document presents the detailed findings of a strategic planning survey conducted by Dufur School District. The survey aimed to gather input from students, staff, and families, ensuring alignment with community values, identifying strengths and areas for growth, and informing future strategic planning priorities. Key takeaways include concerns regarding class size, a strong demand for arts programming, and a desire for expanded opportunities in Career and Technical Education (CTE) and advanced academics. The survey also highlighted the need for safety system improvements, clearer communication and transparency, and maintaining the district's small-school identity while improving offerings. The results will serve as crucial input for developing a three-year strategic plan, to be collaboratively reviewed with stakeholders.

The Budget Committee meeting focused on the presentation and discussion of the proposed budget for the 2026-2027 fiscal year. Key topics included the election of a presiding officer and vice chair, the superintendent's budget message, and detailed presentations on general fund revenue and expenditure allocations. Discussions covered financial challenges such as rising operational costs, uncertainty regarding state and federal funding, and the impact of inflation on staff benefits. The committee reviewed the establishment of new dedicated funds for curriculum and capital improvements, staffing adjustments to manage class sizes, and strategies for maintaining long-term fiscal resilience.

The Board discussed the elimination of the health science program and the potential for a job-share alternative to reduce full-time equivalent positions while maintaining instructional quality. Administrative updates included amendments to the agenda regarding an executive session for legal consultation and a personnel complaint, as well as the rescheduling of budget hearings and the acquisition of a summer school grant. Financial reports addressed state school fund estimates, corrections in local revenue property taxes, and the establishment of goals for general fund reserves and capital improvement planning. Additionally, the principal provided an update on student enrollment, state testing schedules, assessment benchmarks, and the results of an elementary walk-athon used to fund classroom enrichment.

The Board of Directors held a work session to discuss governance roles, fiscal management, and resource alignment concerning the upcoming budget. Key discussion topics included community feedback and strategic planning goals, specifically addressing class sizes in the K-2 grade levels and the potential implementation of a 1-2 grade blend. The board also reviewed the lack of arts programming and elective choices for middle and high school students, expressing a desire to better align budget allocations with community interests and student needs.

The agenda includes organizational items such as swearing in new board members and electing a board chair and vice chair for the upcoming school year. The meeting will feature a superintendent's report and discussions regarding old and new business, including the approval of inter-district transfer numbers, the hiring of certified staff, and the approval of extra duty contracts. Additionally, a session for OSBA school board training is scheduled.