Molalla River School District 35

The business meeting included a special presentation recognizing the Molalla FFA Horse Judging Team for placing 8th in the nation. The student representative reported on the implementation of panic buttons at the high school, recent student activities like a clothing drive and kindness rock painting, and preparations for the 'Share the Love' campaign. Action items included the unanimous approval of the Consent Agenda and the unanimous approval of the second reading of several revised policies related to Special Education, Section 504, and Civil Rights, due to Federal Law changes. Discussions covered the monthly financial review, noting steady enrollment and reviewing the projected budget deficit from the Oregon Department of Education. Other discussion items included a presentation on proposed 2026-2027 MHS courses, a presentation on Sodexo's Bright Bites Kitchen brand and participation in the National Future Chefs Challenge, and a recap of Fall Sports season results. Updates were provided on the Superintendent's absence due to surgery, cybersecurity training efforts, and the development of a device to prevent inadvertent activation of panic buttons.

The executive session was called to order to conduct deliberations with persons designated to carry on labor negotiations, pursuant to ORS 192.660(2)(d). The discussion focused on the MREA Contract.

The work session meeting focused primarily on a presentation by the District Safety Task Force. Key topics included reviewing the task force's goals and objectives, which involve ensuring proper understanding of emergency procedures, updating communication protocols, and scheduling drills. Discussion covered the implementation of the I Love You Guys Foundation standards using universal symbols and language for emergencies. Furthermore, details were provided on the District Office Go Team (DOGo) reunification protocols, upgrades to the high school's bell/PA system including panic buttons integrated with 911, and the planned installation of cameras funded by a school violence prevention grant. Repairs to district radio towers allowing communication across specific sites were also detailed. The Board engaged in discussions regarding future partnerships with local city entities and the communication of standard protocols to staff and students, noting a future executive session to discuss emergency plans further.

The business meeting included a special presentation on the Molalla River Middle School Career Program, highlighting student-led, hands-on approaches to career exploration, including workshops on law enforcement and trades. Action items involved approving the consent agenda, which included October meeting minutes and the personnel report, approving the Oregon Growth Savings Plan resolution (Resolution 2025.2026.005), approving an OSAA Collective for swimming allowing North Marion students to utilize local practice facilities, and approving the three-year contract negotiated with the Molalla River Education Association (MREA). Discussions covered updates on capital projects, including middle school building permit processes and subcontractor hiring; management of salvaging items from the old middle school prior to demolition; a monthly financial review addressing budget reductions and an upcoming audit; and a first reading of several policies related to pediculosis, Special Education (IEP), procedural safeguards, and Section 504 plans, including a recommendation to revert Civil Rights policies to 2020 versions. The Superintendent reported on department activities and an unexpected high school lockdown drill. Board members provided comments on the career program, contract negotiations, and facility maintenance.

The Bond Oversight Committee meeting included updates on the bond design, where the construction documents are 100% complete, and the project is on schedule for completion by Fall 2027. The Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP) has been received from the contractor. There were discussions about the contingency built into the GMP, the number of windows, and their impact on emergency communications. A financial report was presented, and there was discussion about professional services fees, contractor hiring processes, and the project's revenue and cost history. The committee also discussed recruitment for additional members, a potential Mason Cornerstone ceremony, and a time capsule. The next steps in construction were discussed, including waiting for permits to start building.