Wenatchee School District Board Meeting 6/10/26

001espanol. All right, we're now going to work through the agenda. Board, are there any proposed changes or modifications? All right, hearing none, we'll move on to the consent agenda. The items on the consent agenda were sent to the board and posted online last week. The board has had the opportunity to review the materials and ask the superintendent any questions they have about any items on the consent agenda. The uh consent agenda for this meeting includes the minutes for the 52626 regular board meeting, vouchers and payroll, personnel report, contracts, field trips, and the fee and facility rate schedule. Do have a motion to approve the consent agenda. >> Move to approve the consent agenda as presented. >> Second. >> All right. Has been moved by Julie and seconded by Mark. Any discussion? >> All right. Do

002I have uh all in favor of adopting the consent agenda as presented? Say I. >> I. I opposed. All right, motion carries. That gets us to bright spots. Dr. Keller. >> Excellent. Thank you, President Jackson. Uh the Wanchi School District spotlight at each board meeting gives the school board of directors and I an opportunity to highlight a celebration in the district and honor the great work and educational experiences that are happening uh throughout the district. Tonight we have two. So the first one um we have a special guest uh Dr. Michelle Price and uh her board member Susan Albert from the ESD to uh present a special award. So, thank you both for being here tonight. Yes, if you could join us at the podium over here. Thank you. our retirees. We're here from the

003educational service to to really recognize the fabulous school board that you have. This is the regional. Okay. This is the regional board of the year for Chalan County, which says a lot because there's a lot of great districts in our area, but this board has really stepped up in a very challenging time. And I just want there's been so much that this board has done that I really want to read the different areas where you can be so proud of the work that your board has done, your leadership team, your staff and your community parents to make the board really a successful, wonderful board. So over the past four years, the WACI school district has faced formidable financial hurdles driven by declining student enrollment, inflationary costs, outpacing state funding, and the fear of losing federal

004dollars. Navigating these challenges required a monumental effort with the board of directors, the superintendent, and the district leadership openly acknowledging that this heavy budget reduction process had been deeply challenging for every single staff member, our stakeholders, and our system. However, through strong collaboration and a steadfast commitment to foundational guiding principles, district leadership transformed a daunting task into a highly effective, transparent, and successful process. the scope of the challenge. The district was forced to engage in significant heavy lifting to balance the budget over a multi-year period. The initial projected reduction spanning four years from 232 24 school year through the 2627 school year totaled a staggering 21.5 million for the 25 for the 2627 school year alone. The district faced a 5.4 million deficit, compromising a 2.5 million shortfall in basic education allocation and a 2.9

005million loss in federal funding which was restored in early February. A foundation of collaboration, the bud the board budget committee and core principles. A critical turning point in managing this multi-year crisis was the establishment of a dedicated board budget committee during the 2022 23 school year to increase the collaboration and guidance from the court. This collaborative framework is still evident in the district's current operations with board budget committees meetings continuing to serve as a vital milestone for decision making and gathering input during the November December planning phases. I think I'm going to cut through his life. I'm seeing everybody. But um one of the things the commitment to transparency has really been evident with this board. Um and it also and the successful turnaround of the direction of and the focus on the future and

006it really focused in on what was good for students. they made this significant shift toward pathways for success for all students. Um, and they had a a a pivot to growth uh in the climate of enrollment decline. And they they started researching different ways they could find pathways not only for transition past high school, but also pathways for students within their K12 experience. This is a remarkable kind of thing for a community like this to pull together. And you can thank your board for being the leader in creating this and with the support of all of you because you can tell by just who's showing up tonight. This has been an all of you, but it took the leadership of your board to pull this together. So, we want to again thank you for being

007that stellar school board. Thank you very much. We appreciate it. Thank you, Susan, and thank you, Dr. Price. We appreciate your time and commitment, and thanks for joining us this evening. Uh, we are moving on to the second part of our Wanche School District spotlight. Um, and this is our, uh, retirement celebration. So tonight is the night that we celebrate our staff who have diligently worked to support our students, staff, families uh through their work and their passion. And so tonight, no matter what the role that you played in our system, your efforts and what you have poured your hearts and souls into has been critical in shaping uh young minds, fostering love of learning, and nurturing the potential within each student. Your commitment has spanned years filled with countless late nights, early mornings, and

008unwavering passion for the uh education of our youth. The impact you've made goes far beyond the classroom and the building walls. You've been mentors, you've been confidants, you've been pillars of support, leaving a mark on generations of students, faculty, and staff. Your legacy will continue to inspire uh as we strive to carry on the torch that you've so brightly lit. So, we celebrate your well-earned retirement and wish you all the joy and fulfillment in this exciting new chapter. May it be filled with adventures, cherished moments, and continued satisfaction of a life dedicated to making a difference. Um, we have quite a few amazing people to celebrate this evening. Um, and so to expedite the process, we have a list of retirees and presenters. Um, so as uh we're going through this process, if you're a

009presenter, if you can be at the ready, that would be great. and you can call up your retiree once you get to that podium. Um, and retirees, please uh I think Kelly is poised to help out, but we have uh your uh Wachi School District retirement gift uh the clock and uh it's there for you. So, you can grab that once you've left the podium and let's get this thing started. I think we're all excited to get started. Um I would first like to call Connie Strawn up to uh the podium here. Connie, thanks for being here. Retired Principal Connie Scron. First of all, I want to say hi Meline. >> Alonso Lopez, come on up. >> All right. >> Are you ready? Think so. I'll try and keep it um clean. First of all,

010Alonso is very much an educator and an advocate for education. He not only worked from a parah to a teacher to a principal to a building administrator, got a superintendent credentials. He put his three boys through college. Julio graduated from Western, Mauricio graduated from Central, and Ivonne graduated from the University of Washington. And I'm sweating now. Uh, and he also his wife graduated from Wachi Valley College. Sometimes you meet people and talent just oozes out their pores. This is one of those people. He we were able to honor his excellence in a number of ways. First of all, I nominated him for the Christa McCulliff Award from the state and he was chosen from our area. I can't remember. Did you get any money? >> Not that. >> When I got it in 1989, I

011got $1,000. Then people heard about him and the next thing we know is that uh John Gordon is calling me and he said, "You're not going to believe this, but one of your teachers is being uh nominated for the Milkin Award." And I know he got money for that because it was 25,000. And he got that award. There's only two people selected in the entire state. And on my husband and I had the pleasure of accompanying him and his family down to Los Angeles where he was able to receive that award. And I think you've got it in the restaurant, right? Oh, the house. Well, you should move it to the restaurant, Alonso. So everybody can see it. Um then he went on and I'm pretty sure this is in the restaurant. He went on

012to get the principal of the year for the state of Washington. Now I want you to know I retired 20 years ago so he could take over. So I am so proud of him and all that he has accomplished. He also is just wanting to give back all the time. And you may know that he started a soccer program for kids and it keeps growing and growing, right? And he's going to continue it after he retires and he's put his own money into it and then businesses have sponsored and that's a great gift to our community. I'd also like to say that Alfonso is stubborn. And one time at school, he knows the story. One time at school, I got a phone call from his beautiful wife, Maria, and she said, "Connie, you have to

013send Alonso home. He's sick. He's really sick." And so I went down to his room and I said, "Hey, buddy. Come on, you need to go home. No, I'm fine. I'm fine. I said, "No, you're not. Maria just called me." So, he got sent home. He's done many wonderful things that I'm sure that I've failed to mention. Um, I just want to say that one of the greatest gifts is my family has become so close to his family that Alfonso is like my brother and my husband and I are surrogate grandkids to his three boys. So, it's it's been a real pleasure. Who's clapping? So, with great pleasure, I present you this certificate and you can pick a clock up. I got one 20 years ago. It's not working anymore, but I hope you have

014you have better luck than that. >> Bonnie, careful. Careful. >> Hot. >> Gosh, careful. >> Battery operated. Changed it. I would just want to say one parting thing is after the award that you all got, I'm just sincerely very sad that our district is not even going to have one librarian. Very sad. Thank you. Thanks for coming in, Connie. We appreciate it. Excellent. Is this okay? Still on. Thanks, Connie. Thanks for sharing your time with us. We appreciate it. So, the next one um the next one I am, uh this will be Tim Shepard. We need Tim to come up here. So, Tim, come on up, my friend. All right. >> And so, we have also brought in a blast from Tim's past >> as we have brought in a blast from Alfonso's past. And

015so Matteline Minkx is with us um and she is the former principal of Lincoln Elementary and uh has some words to share and uh we're excited to have this. So uh Meline, can you give us a little little sound check to make sure we can hear you? Can you say something? >> Oh, >> is it working? >> Oh, it's working. Great. Okay. I'm gonna let you take over from here. Is that okay? >> Sure. >> Okay. Wonderful. Well, it's an honor for me to speak on behalf of Tim Shepard, whom, as you know, is retiring this year. A little history. In 1990, I began my career as the principal of Lincoln Elementary. All my all-time favorite job in 47 years of public education. During that journey, I met Tim Sheepard, who in late 1994 was

016substitute teaching at Lincoln and for the next year was hired and team taught third grade with Carol Sheret and Mary Door. He left this position for one year to serve as the district math coach and returned to Lincoln as the principal. In 2024, when the district determined to close Colombia Elementary, Tim decided to help make the transition a little easier for the district and took on the challenge of becoming the director of the federal grants and special programs, a job which he loved. Here are five important statements from staff members who were at Lincoln during Tim's tenure. First, a kindergartener once called him the shepherd. And indeed, he was a leader to all. He was an early morning go-getter, often the first person in the school building. His attention to detail did not go unnoticed,

017especially when celebrating his team at the annual holiday staff lunchon. The anticipation of the menu and elaborate decor made us all giddy like little kids. If you ever the second If you ever taught with Tim as a colleague, you knew his classroom was decked out with colorful frogs. And as principal, his office was a mini Disneyland. His faces were always warm and welcoming, just as he aspired to welcome students, families, and staff. Third, Tim's retirement is welld deserved after his years of service. to the WACI school district. He is a very special and gifted man who has a heart of gold. I learned so much from working with Tim. Fourth, he laughs, jokes, takes his responsibility seriously and knows how to get the job done. He definitely has the leadership skills and is a friend

018to all. Fifth, he dedicated his career and education to serve students and colleagues. I could not be happier for his retirement, knowing he will spend treasured moments with his children, grandchildren, countless hours walking the beach, and catching neverending sun rays vacationing with Karen. I personally admire the reality of Tim dealing with COVID as well as the Lincoln remodel and over-the-top celebration of the opening of the new Lincoln Elementary School. Before my final Tim comments, I'd like to wish the best to Alfonso Lopez, Megan Collins, and Sharon Osborne, friends of mine. In closing, I again thank you for the honor provided me to publicly celebrate Tim's retirement. Tim has the unique ability to bring out the best in those around him. His successes will follow him into retirement. Thank you so much, Tim, for all you

019have done. Thank you, Maline. We appreciate you joining us tonight. >> My pleasure. Good evening everybody. How's it going tonight? I'll try to make this quick. There's 25 people to get through here and I know I can ramble on when I get a microphone. So, I'll do my best. First of all, there's a lot of folks in this audience who have been a mentor to me, colleague, um, friend, and help me through. So, I appreciate all of you that are sailing off into the sunset. And then there's many teachers out here that have been um teachers of my own children and really appreciate all that you've done for the three Stewart children. Um all right, we are starting off with um Esther Kovaruvius. Come on down, Esther. I don't usually wear a tie, so it

020was very odd to show up to the building this morning in a tie. Esther retired in January. She was not there this morning. And no one said I sor Guapo, which is usually what she said only when I wore a tie, which is like twice a year. Um, so I did miss you this morning, Esther. Um, but not the only time that I've missed you. Um, Esther has been a parapro for 33 years and she is a like a pillar of this community. She has she started at Columbia obviously. She followed me to Lincoln thankfully and she is special in just that she's known throughout the community. Um she I could always count on her to call parents and she would take care of it because she knew them personally almost all of the time

021and she would just handle that that no problem. Um Esther was a teacher I think before that um in Mexico and you could really see that in how she taught kids, ran small groups um and also sometimes bossed me around in a way that I really appreciated. Whenever something was that needed to be fixed, she's like, "Well, you tell them you're the boss." And I was like, "Well, you're telling me, so who really is the boss here?" I um but it has been I mean everybody that knows her has been blessed by her presence, her friendship, her leadership, um the way that she treated kids, the way that she is revered in this community and she's earned that spot by how she's lived her life every day and how she lived it in Colombia and

022Lincoln Elementary. So, I do miss you. I'm still going to miss you next year. Thanks, Esther. All right. Uh, Becky Duval, I see you. Becky is been a um a parah at Lincoln for 13 years and I've gotten to know her for the last two. Um and I I have to say it's a real honor to to recognize two of my people today that are paraprofessionals. Um you know, obviously they're they don't make as much as teachers, but they are essential to what we do with students. And Becky is no exception. She is a fantastic educator. She is not someone that's just watching kids at recess or making copies. I mean, she is a teacher of students. She's with them every day in small groups. She's exceptional um with how she she teaches them and

023what we need her to get done and how she responds to students. Let me read just a few things that were written about her. Becky is very dependable. We can always count on her to not only show up, but be prepared for the groups that she instructs. She's exceptionally patient. She seems to have an endless amount of patience, especially with our super fun friends that need a little extra care. She's willing to do anything that's asked of her and she always responds with a quick okay, what'sever is needed. Um, Becky asks questions if she doesn't know if there's something in her instruction or that she needs help with. She doesn't hesitate to ask for more training or guidance. She's loving and kind to all students and staff and not only ask how you are doing,

024but thoughtfully listens to whoever she is speaking with. Becky can be found every morning standing in the middle of the hall waiting to greet each student with a bright hello and encourage encouraging words for the day. And the One thing Becky also you can count on her for is every day, every recess she's on, she's out gathering up all the equipment and putting it back. Not because anyone told her to do that, just because that's the kind of person she is. We are really going to miss you at Lincoln Elementary. Thank you, Sharon Osborne. Come on down. >> How long have you been at Lincoln? >> Am I supposed to add those together or Okay. 27, 26 or 25 years. Sharon has been at Lincoln. Um, Sharon is the kind of staff member that everybody

025in the building loves. Everybody in the building wants to be her their mom or grandma, depending on how old you are. Um, she's the she's the person that everybody wants to have fashion style like and shoes like. Um, and I I don't want to go too far off script. I should probably read the stuff they wrote about you, but I have some other stories about you, too. Sharon has worked at Lincoln Elementary for 20 years as an intervention specialist. She is an exceptionally relational human being with a huge heart for others and a gift for making people feel special. You would be hardressed to find a staff member or student at Lincoln who doesn't feel that they have a special connection with Sharon. What is best for students is always Sharon's number one priority. And

026her heart for students can be seen daily as she interacts with students in her group and as she makes special stops into classrooms to check in on students and as she tirelessly makes adjustments to her lessons to better meet their needs. You can daily witness students from across the building stopping Sharon in the halls to give a hug, share a story, or offer a sweet note or a gift for her. Sharon will be greatly missed at Lincoln. Don't clap yet because Last anecdote. Um the first time I got to watch Sharon teach as her evaluator a couple years ago. She was in a small group. She's always teaching, you know, our students that need the most support in learning how to read, usually on the younger side of the scale. And so she's sitting there

027at the reading group and they're doing their work. And constantly throughout the lesson, she's like, "Oh, perfect. Give yourself three points. Oh, great job. four points for you. Oh, excellent. One point. Oh, I saw you do that. One point. And I get to the end of the lesson like Sharon, like do all those points add up to a gift or a ticket or something? She's like, no, they don't know. They think they're amazing. And I was like, 1,000 points, Sharon. Nice job. So, since then, we've been uh awarding each other points for when we do a good job. I implemented a system where I actually take points away from Sharon if I think she's not doing a good job. That's just me. I added that part on later. But Sharon is um she is truly

028a joy to work with. Everybody feels the same way. And if you know her, you would too. So, thank you for all you've done for Come on up. >> We bring our own fan club here at Michigan. Uh, so I'll start by saying Sandy and I came to Michigan at the same time years and years ago. Um, I think I was hired on day one. I hired her on day two. Uh, so last year she decided she thought she might retire. I said, "Sandy, please give me one more year. One more year." I got it out of her. So we're going to go out. We came together. We're going to go out together. Right. So, it's customary for Mission View's teachers, parapros, that we do a poem. So, I'd like to do one for Sandy

029today. For Sandy Hawks, Mission View's MVP. 24 years have come and gone. It's Sy's spirit has carried on. Through sunshine, bright winter snow, and smoky fall days, she's been the heart of Mission View in countless special ways. She started part-time years ago, helping children learn and grow, leading after school with care and pride, always with students by her side. When changes came and programs grew, the YMCA took over, too. But one thing Mission View knew was true. We simply couldn't imagine losing you. So Sandy stayed. And what a gift. Her steady presence gave us a lift. Day after day, year after year, she brought kindness, calm, and cheer. In a world where consistency matters so much, Sandy always provided that dependable touch. With remarkable attendance throughout the years, she was a constant presence that brought

030comfort and cheers. Students and staff knew they could count on her each day to greet them with kindness and help light the way. Her commitment to Mission View was easy to see. A shining example of a real reliability. While others taught within four walls, Sandy answered playground calls. A scraped up knee, a friendship strain, a game gone wrong, a child's small pain. She handled each with grace and care, making sure every child knew she was there. A listening ear, a watchful eye, always helping spirits fly. Thousands of students have crossed her path, shared a smile, a joke, a laugh. Many have grown and moved along. Yet Sandy's impact remains strong. She knew the names, the stories, too. All the stories. The little things that few others knew. The child who struggled, the one who shined.

031She somehow kept them all in mind. For 24 years, she stood the test, doing her job and giving her best. Just seeking praise or fame, never seeking praise or fame. Just showing up and doing the same. Caring deeply, leading well, creating stories will always tell. The kind of person every school needs. Quietly planting countless seeds. Mission View has been blessed indeed for Sandy gave more than duty required. She gave her heart, her time, and her care and made our school a better place to be there. For 24 years, when children raced onto the playground, there was comfort in knowing Sandy would be found, watching, guiding, encouraging each child she could reach, teaching life lessons without ever needing to teach. So today, we celebrate all you've done. The life you've touched, the battles you've won, and

032through the years have quickly flown, the legacy of Mission View has surely grown. But when people ask what made us thrive, why students felt safe and come alive, one answer always rise above. Sandy Hawks, 24 years of dedication, kindness, reliability, and love with heartful gratitude. Jeff Jagger, Donna Leone, and the Mission View family. I got something else for you. I'm going to carry you with you. You take you take your >> Look at that. Amy is always keeping me on track. She didn't even wait for me to call. Real real quick be before I before I start. Um I did I did want to say a couple things um just about all the retirees. So, it's it's such when such a small community. Um, I have my favorite teacher over here, Doug Merrill, who's who's

033retiring made a huge impact on me in high school. Jeff Jagger hired me at the age of 23. First job at Mission View, 15 years. Um, let's see. Um, Jennifer Henderson, where's Jennifer? Jennifer, I remember uh being a brand new teacher and you sitting down and helping me with all my financial stuff. You all make a difference, too. Um and um Karen Walters as well. My question that I was like I wasn't sure how I was going to answer this question when I became a principal was budgets and uh she helped me. She helped me a lot. Pete, you were right. There's people ready to help. And then Tim and Alonso um you know your your leadership and your mentorship that's meant a lot through the years as well. So thank you. All right. So

034um here we go. This this is Amy. Today we celebrate a career, a legacy, and most importantly a person who has helped shape John Newberry from the very beginning. Amy started at John Newberry in 1993, the very first year the school opened. Think about that for a moment. Amy has been part of the story of John Newberry since day one. And in a way, so have I. I started at John Newberry in 1993, too. Just from a different perspective, as a student, there is something really special about that connection. While Amy was helping build the foundation of the school as a teacher, I was one of the students growing up there. And somehow life brought us back together years later to lead the school side by side. Funny how things come full circle. Except for

035a brief time serving as instructional coach at Washington Elementary, Amy spent years or spent her nearly her entire career at Newberry, serving generations of students, families, and staff with kindness, positivity, and unwavering care. Then came our chapter together. Five years ago, Maria, I remember Maria was with you. We stood by the canal waiting or talking about waiting for the call that would eventually bring us together. And I remember you saying, "Well, maybe they don't want us. Maybe maybe we're not we're maybe we're not fit out for the job." Neither of us could have imagined what leadership together would look like. And then we stepped into the we stepped in at one of the strangest strangest times in education. Schools were still trying to remember what normal even looked like after CO. Students were relearning how

036to be in school. Staff were rebuilding relationships. And somehow Amy stepped into leadership at a time when she barely knew many of the students and immediately found herself navigating what I can only describe as peak elementary chaos. There were the Tik Tok challenges, the mysterious case of the missing soap dispensers, toilet paper ending up in places no one could explain, and moments where we looked at each other thinking, "Are we seriously dealing with this right now?" But through it all, Amy stayed steady, positive, calm, practical. When challenges came up, she focused on solutions. When people needed support, she showed up. That's who Amy is. As people reflected on Amy's impact, a few things came up again and again. Her positivity, her kindness, and her encouragement. And of course, Friday chocolate. Apparently, staff morale may have

037been partially funded by chocolate. People talked about greetings that brightened to hard warnings, the listening ear during difficult days, and the way Amy made both staff and students feel seen, supported, and cared for. And that matters because leadership isn't just about solving problems. It's about helping people feel supported enough to do hard things. Amy, you did that. You created You helped create a place where people felt safe, valued, and cared for. and somehow even in difficult moments you brought optimism, humor and heart to this work. I want to say something personal. You are no stranger to adversity and I have always appreciated your steady partnership through every challenge we have faced. This truly has been a team effort and I'm grateful for the care that you have demonstrated for students and staff over the last

038years, especially during some incredibly challenging times in education. You brought steadiness, humor, heart when people needed it most. You always gave more than people saw. When I think back to standing by the canal years ago, waiting for that call, I never would have imagined what our journey would become. But I am incredibly grateful that we got to do it together. Amy, you have earned this next chapter. Now I have to figure now I have to like Hold on a minute. I have to be able to read this. No much no more rushed mornings. You actually get to dry your hair. Amy wakes up early, goes to the gym every morning. That routine has not changed. So, uh, no more radio emergencies, no mystery situations, just time. Time for family, time for grandkids, time for biking,

039hiking, skiing, traveling, and all the adventures ahead. And maybe chocolate on days other than Friday. Amy, thank you for your leadership, your kindness, your humor, and your heart. The impact you leave behind will last for a very long time. Congratulations on your retirement. Enjoy every moment of this next adventure. You have absolutely absolutely earned it. Thank you. >> Hi. Tonight, it is my privilege to honor a cornerstone in our district's community, our phenomenal middle school librarian, Sandra Lancaster, who is retiring after an extraordinary career in education. To give you an idea of Sandra's impact, she has been a guiding light for our students for over three decades. She spent 13 years at Orchard Middle School, followed by 15 incredible years. You started at Orchard Okay. Sorry. 13 years at Foothills. No, I'm gonna get it

040right. 13 years at Foothills Middle School followed by 15 incredible years at Pioneer. And because Sandra is the ultimate team player, when district budget cuts hit three years ago, she did not flinch. She stepped up and split her time across all three of our middle schools, Pioneer, Orchard, and Foothills. For the past three years, Sandra has basically been our district's middle school literacy superhero, flying between schools to make sure our students always had a champion for reading. And what a champion she has been. In a world where it feels like teenagers are completely consumed by screens, Sandra did the impossible. She built a space where middle school students actually want to put their phones down. Walk into Sandra's library before school or during lunch and you will not see a room of silent, isolated kids

041staring at their devices. You will see a packed room full of laughter, conversation, and wonder. Sandra has gone above and beyond to curate a collection of highinterest books. She has created a special and cozy oasis with couches where kids can completely get lost in a book. But Sandra also knew that a library could be a community center. Over the years, she has purchased countless board games. And because of her, our libraries are places where you will see middle schools intensely middle school students intensely locked into games of chess, laughing over UNO, or playing Guess Who with their friends. She turned the library into an absolute hub and heart of our schools. An inclusive, safe, and beautiful haven for every student. On top of managing three libraries, thousands of books, and everything else that goes along

042with being a librarian, Sandra also coordinated annual book fairs to get more books into the homes of our students. Sandra, you leave behind a profound legacy. You gave our students a sanctuary, a love for reading, and a place to just be kids. We hope you cherish every moment of extra time you now get to spend with your family, including the two children you are so justly proud of. Thank you, Sandra, for 31 years of making our schools a brighter, kinder, and wiser place. Congratulations. >> Sorry, I got this wrong. Tonight, I also have the honor of celebrating someone who is a pillar of the Pioneer Middle School community. And after 27 phenomenal years of dedication, inspiration, and just a tiny bit of barnyard chaos, Carolyn Darcy is retiring. When some people look ahead to their

043final year before retirement, they talk about easing into it. That might the the coast might get a little more clear. They might start to pack up, you know, pack up their desks early or start mentally packing for vacation. Not Carolyn. On top of teaching, just this year alone, Carolyn coached soccer. She led a technology student association club. and she just single-handedly coordinated a field trip to Seattle for our entire eighth grade class. Yeah, it was big. But that tireless energy is exactly who Carolyn is. For a quarter of a century, she has been an integral part of our science department. She didn't just teach science from a textbook. She brought it to life. She is the reason hundreds of students have start have stared in awe through a telescope at the night sky or prepared

044projects for a science fair. And of course, we cannot talk about Mrs. Darcy's classroom without mentioning her famous co-teers. Every year, Carolyn brought the miracle of life directly to our hallways by hatching and raising baby chickens in her classroom. She taught our students to be curious, gentle, and observant. Beyond the clubs and sports, the trips and the poultry, what we will miss most is Carolyn's heart. Her colleagues know her as a beacon of kindness, a source of unshakable energy, and someone who is quite simply makes coming to work fun. Carolyn, you have left an indelible mark on Pioneer Middle School. You have shaped generations of thinkers, dreamers, and doers. As you step into this next chapter, we wish you nothing but the absolute best. We know you won't actually be slowing down because you have

045a beautiful family. Um, and we are especially your children and your grandchildren who are about to get a full dose of your incredible energy and love. Thank you for 27 years of irreplaceable service, laughter, and dedication. Congratulations on your retirement. Mr. Ferman, can you please join me up here? There he is. So tonight we reach a true milestone moment for Pioneer Middle School as we celebrate the retirement of a legendary educator who has spent an astounding 33 years in our classroom, Mr. Jeff Ferman. Ferman started his journey three decades ago as a science teacher with a biology degree. But somewhere along the line, the numbers called to him. And he spent the majority of his career as our resident eth grade math and algebra wizard. To survive 33 years of teaching middle school math, you

046have to have some unique strategies. Every class period for Perman started not with a lecture, but a question of the day, a complex puzzle or riddle designed to jumpstart critical thinking, spark debate, and prove to students that problem solving could actually be fun. And Perman's dedication to deep learning paid off immensely. Perman is one of the most frequently visited teachers by former students returning to pioneer. They come back because they realize once they hit high school and college just how rock solid the mathematical foundation was that Ferman gave them. In fact, just this year, a former student who's entering a doctoral program for physical therapy remarked that she as she navigates complex highle graduate math, she still thinks back to the exact to exactly how Mr. Perman explained those concepts to her in middle school.

047This is the de this is the definition of a lasting legacy. To his colleagues, Herman is the epitome of kindness and loyalty. But don't let that serious math teacher persona fool you. Herman is an absolute first rate sport. He is willingly participating in school Tik Toks, staff dances, and this past November, he grew out his beard for a full month just so the student body could vote on how he would shave it. And let's just say the resulting facial hair required a lot of confidence, but Mr. Perman rocked it. Herman, as you prepare to trade the classroom for the great outdoors, we know your retirement is going to be anything but quiet. We are certain you will be filling your passport with new unique destinations, conquering remarkable heights, and finding new peaks to climb. Thank

048you for 33 years of unwavering loyalty, incredible music, critical thinking, and for truly shaping the minds of our community. Congratulations, Mr. Ferman. >> Thank you. Good evening. I'm gonna move this down. I am super excited to be up here and celebrate Caroline. I've got a little uh little piece here for you. I'm here tonight for a bittersweet reason, to celebrate the incredible, irreplaceable Caroline Lake as she closes her classroom door for the final time and steps into a well-deserved retirement. years, two decades at Washington Elementary. To put that into perspective, Caroline has been there longer than smartphones, longer than YouTube, and definitely longer than our current second grade parents and maybe even some of their parents. She is practically a foundational pillar of this school, of the new Washington and the old Washington. She's worked

049throughout the Wachi School District. She spent 10 years at Columbia, a year at Lincoln as well, and one year as a literacy coach for the district. Thank heaven she came back. Caroline, you've spent 32 years surrounded by sticky fingers, lots of recess drama, and the phrase, "Teacher, I don't know what to do." repeatedly, probably about four million times. You've survived 30 plus years of indoor recess on rainy days, helping kindergarteners put on snow gear, and for that alone, you should win a Medal of Honor. But jokes aside, thank you for here's some math to think about. 20 years of classes at Washington means roughly 500 children have passed through your classroom door. 500 lives shaped by your patience, your high expectations, and your warmth. You didn't just teach them to do two-digit subraction or how

050to read chapter books. You taught them how to be good humans. You taught them how to share, how to dust themselves off after a fall, and how to believe in themselves when the concepts were too hard. There are adults walking around out here today, accountants, nurses, parents, and maybe even some teachers who look back at their time at Washington and remember Mrs. Lake as the person who made them love school. This is a legacy that very few careers can claim. You haven't just clocked into the job for 32 years, you've poured your heart into the future. The staff at Washington Elementary, she's a mentor, a confidant, and the calm in the me middle of many educational storms. When policies changed, when curriculum shifted, I could always count on Caroline to say, "Don't worry, the pendulum

051will shift the other way. It will come back. I promise it always does." Caroline, as you step into this next chapter, I wish you many mornings where you don't have to set an alarm. You don't have to arrive to school at 7:30. I wish you many days of fun enjoying your family. I also hope Randy remembers to give her time home alone. As a fellow law enforcement retirey wife, I understand. And when and days where you never have to say keep your hands to yourself ever again. Thank you for your dedication, your grace, and your 20 years of love for Washington Elementary. You will be deeply missed, but your impact will stay in our hallways forever. Thank you. And another monumental moment. Happy 60th birthday, Randy. I have the honor and the privilege tonight to

052speak on behalf of the district in Sunny Slope Elementary about two powerful women. The first of which is Katie Stefanitis. Uh Katie has served across the Wanche school district, stepping into a variety of elementary roles in schools with seamless adaptability that few possess. To her colleagues, she has been the ultimate teammate, always kind, fiercely supportive, and a constant source of encouragement. She approaches every challenge with an unmistakable blend of grace and integrity, setting a standard of excellence and professionalism. Katie has brought a calm, reassuring presence to our school community. Parents have long admired Katie for her extraordinary leadership and mentorship over their children, trusting her to guide and challenge her kids through our highly capable program at Sunny Slope Elementary. Katie doesn't just teach lessons, she nurtures character, leaving an indelible mark on our community.

053To say she will be badly missed is a profound understatement. Our school and district will simply not be the same without her warmth and dedication. Katie, thank you for your years of service, selfless service, and congratulations on a well-deserved retirement. Please adventure well to show the rest of us how retirement is done right. Powerful woman number two, Memory Viser. Memory has served our community across various grade levels in the Wanche School District, most notably at the Valley Academy of Learning and Sunny Slope Elementary. Memory has been the embodiment of grace, wisdom, and unwavering integrity. In the classroom, she possesses a rare and beautiful gift, the ability to provide a deep sense of stability and calm even to our most challenging students. Where others might see obstacles, memory brings solutions through a patient, grounding presence, ensuring

054that every child who steps through her door feels safe, valued, and capable of success. Beyond her profound impact on students, memory has been an invaluable blessing to our school community. Her teammates consistently describe her as remarkably kind and a wonderful collaborator. Someone who effortlessly lifts others up and strengthens the entire school community both inside and outside her classroom walls. As Memory steps into a well-deserved retirement, she leaves behind a legacy of integrity and kindness. Thank you, Memory, for your exceptional service. We wish you the absolute best in your next chapter and hope you'll model it well for those of us those of us who want to follow shortly. Mike, can you come join me? I get the honor to talk about Mike tonight. Uh Mike is one of our parapros at our transition program. He's

055been with us for three years. And we also have the bonus he came in kind of as a past parent. So he had a lot of great skills and knowledge before he started. Um he's kind of known as maybe a little bit of a gentle giant if I can say that. So, um, he brings a gentle, caring presence that helps both students and staff be their very best. Mike has a unique ability to honor individual differences while while providing the balance of support and encouragement, allowing students to build independence and confidence. He comes to work every day with a smile, a positive attitude, a genuine commitment to those around him, both staff and students. While he while we will greatly miss him in the transition program, we are excited for him as he begins his

056next big adventure and wish him nothing but the very best in this next chapter. Hi, I'm here on beha behalf of Wanachi High School and we are here to celebrate Chrissy Payton. She gets to retire reluctantly by me, but she is known as the executive director of our music department. Um, her positivity, heart for service, and willingness to do what it takes to keep four music directors and their programs on track is not an easy task. Many of us would know it would take a village, yet you get it accomplished just by yourself. It's crazy. Thank you for 10 years of service and over 400 student musicians each year. Fitting them for uniforms, making sure they turn in the uniforms, making sure they have the permission slits, the list goes on and on. And Christie

057is always ready and willing to take on each student's conflicts and do it with grace. And we really appreciate that. Keeping that corner of Wachi High School buttoned up is not an easy task and it does help the job of the principal with you around. Uh, and you are going to be missed. We really appreciate you and we're happy that you get to spend more time serving our community in ways that you choose. Thank you. All right, we get to do Brenda's favorite thing right now. She's very excited. So, I have the pleasure uh to talk about Brenda. So, Brenda is a PAR educator uh in our CTE department uh at Wache High School. And there's a few words that that come to mind when I think about her time uh in the CTE department.

058And one is supportive. Uh not only supportive of of the students in their work. Uh but she helps them build confidence that when she approaches her work every day, it's not just a task. It's not a task oriented deal. Uh it's around really instilling the confidence in that student to to see themselves being successful. Um a genuine belief in their own potential. That's whenever you talk to her outside of the classroom, that's one of the most important things for her and uh we we're going to miss that and that we're very appreciative of that. Uh she's always looking out uh for how students can be served better. Um there's often times that we'll be doing something whatever it is and then a little while little while later friend will come to me and say I

059have an idea. I I'd like to share a thought with you. Do you have a minute? And I I appreciate those times. She's very thoughtful in in how can we make things better for students. Uh one is is an anchor. Uh she is she's an anchor especially for our a department. Um and the support that she provides them and the dependability that she brings every day. Um, stepping up to tackle projects outside of the classroom, whether it's plant sale or it's floral projects or you name it. There's a lot going on and and she's always there to to step up to the task and help the team with whatever that is. So, uh, we're not going to be the same without you. We're going to miss you. Uh, could not be happier for you uh,

060and the adventure that that lies ahead. So, thank you very much and congratulations. >> All right, next up, Dan. Dan Elwood, you haven't figured it out. They're together, so love it. Go C. Go CS. Uh, so, so Dan uh has had I don't know the exact number over 40. 42. So 42 years in agriculture education. Uh yeah. Yeah. Um and and that spans, you know, whether that's in the shop or a mechanics, welding, uh horiculture. Uh and one of the things that Dan brings that is that we appreciate so much is uh he's an architect and a program builder. like he thinks at that level of how can we create experiences for students uh to put them into positions to grow themselves uh and to see themselves as being a successful member of our community

061and he has a huge huge heart and I think yeah so that's very much appreciated and and when when I say that he's never never afraid to have a hard conversation whether that's with a student or a parent or myself or or whatever. Um, but it comes it comes from a place of love and him wanting to have a a a very powerful impact and so we we appreciate that. Um, he's hardworking and dedicated and he leads by example. So he's always there early, he's always there late. There's an enormous amount of work that goes into running the programs that he runs and and he leads by example in doing that. He's always looking out for others. Uh you know, whether that's his colleagues or just somebody else on the other side of the building

062or just a thought that he has, it's it's how do I help the people around me? So um that's going to be being missed as well. So, you have huge shoes to fill. Uh, I'm not sure that we'll do it, but uh, we're going to try, but please have your phone out. So, there we go. So, thank you. >> Uh, Doug Merrill. Uh, so what to what to say about Doug? Uh, amazing things. I I don't know if I can do it just justice, but I'm going to give it an attempt. Uh, Doug is full of wonder. Um, and there's always big incredible ideas uh that come from Doug and that is uh whether that's adaptive play classes, world record marble runs, uh ski design class, or the latest one, even though he's retiring, he's

063still dropping off ideas. So, that's wonderful. Uh slot car racing class. So, that sounds fun. So, uh, he's compassionate, um, looking to support others and meet him where they are. And I think, you know, one of the things that that when you when you talk with Doug, what stands out to me is ability to see you or me or whoever it is and engage on on such a human level, uh, to to really feel seen and connect around an idea or a project or or whatever the thing is that you're talking about and he genuinely wants the best for you in every situation and that's special. Uh uh it's it's a little hard actually for for me. I've looked up to Doug and uh I'm going to stop at that, but I know uh cabinet

064board get nervous when I come up. Uh Lindy, you should be. But uh first and foremost, uh I came in tonight thinking, "Wow, Lindy, congrats." Uh but but it's been I just want to give a shout out. Uh I'm looking at Karen. I mean, she's like, "Don't talk to me." Uh I said, "Hey, you want me to?" No. She said no. Uh but but I I want to share out something. Um back two years um I got to be a part of this district. I was hired as I look around it blows my mind. I mean should I go into admin? Probably not. But uh you know it's it's I sorry but with with all sincerity. Uh the amount of just true educators who have loved not just me, my kid and everybody here. I

065my whole thought about tonight is a little bit different and so I'm gonna I'm gonna get through this. Um but I just want to say thank you uh really really really uh from pioneer people. Uh gosh I'm like, it's amazing. Okay, anyways, we're gonna move on. So, this is kind of a full circle again when I go back to 2000, early 2000s, Linny, like you uh and that amazing husband because uh Ron, it's a package deal and I know it and I got a lot of stories I won't share, but the reality is is um uh Lindy actually invited me and my wife in. Um she was one of the first one of the first that we she got to meet which goes back a few years. I know and I know and and she

066was mothering me then as she has now. Uh but I just want to say that meant a lot. I was able to get her into the tech center. Um first and foremost, she's not just been at the tech center. Uh she was at Cashmir. Uh she was a coach um assistant. I mean you've done it all uh through the years. And so again I know hiring out of Wachi, but she has served students and our community very well. She was with transitional um and special education, which I got to see her firsthand in our building. And I was like, "Yeah, that is a heart." Um and that is truly what I look for uh when we're hiring. And you showed it. Um, I will also just say as we've gone through the years, uh, at

067the tech center, we're pretty small. It is, uh, do what you can. I just grab people and say do this and do that. What I mean, some of the jobs, I mean, you have >> Yeah, she knows how to mechanic, uh, cosmetology. She's amazing. It's awesome. Uh, she's actually, uh, and Ron's always said, "Calm down, Pete. Let her let her get home." And I'm like, "Yeah, I will when I'm done." But the reality is she's also uh embroidery. She has learned things that I'm always like, "We have this cool thing. Can you figure it out for us and our and for our staff?" And you've always stepped up. Um again, it's not over for her because she's actually going to come help us during summer school, right? Yep. And then, but wait, there's more. uh

068she we will be calling her back to hopefully sub uh when we need an extra something. But uh Lindy, I do want to say thank you. You've been amazing for students. You are super kind. You have helped guide me in my um endeavors and growth, which we all know I need a lot. Uh but again, thank you very much and Ron. Thank you very much, sir. >> I have to say something. I have to say something about him. He came to me and he says, "Can you teach me how to use that embroidery machine?" I said, "No, Pete, I can't." It took me six months and he wanted me to teach him in a day. All right, Monica Christensen. I know that it might seem uh fairly unusual for the HR director to be celebrating

069and honoring the union president. Uh, but over the last seven years, Monica and I have worked really hard to build a relationship rooted in mutual respect and collaboration. The things I appreciate most about Monica is her high standard. She expects everyone to work hard and to do their job. She demands this of herself, of the teachers that she represents, and of the district. Because of this, we've been able to make decisions that genuinely serve the best interest of both our staff and of our district. Well, uh, while I've never had the pleasure, um, of knowing Monica as a classroom teacher, I know she was hardworking. I know she was deeply passionate and always willing to think outside the box for her students. And I know this because it's exactly how she has operated as a

070union president. I've had the distinct pleasure of working alongside her to help grow our educators and watching her guide teachers to find creative, innovative ways to support the kiddos in their classroom. And it's truly something special. Monica and I both stepped into our current roles at the exact same time. So that was fun. And that was right before the world changed with COVID. While the pandemic was incredibly difficult time for everybody personally, it was an unprecedented challenge for those of us in education, which everybody here knows. Um where most districts were forced to draft endless, we took a different approach. Uh we sat down, shared our concerns, identified goals, and collaborated on how we were going to get through this together. The trust and partnership we forged during that time really set the tone for

071the working relationship moving forward. And honestly, it was only possible because of the person that Monica is. I truly believe that having Monica at the helm of 1A is the reason our district has successfully weathered the storms of COVID a school closure and multiple budget reductions. She has been a steadfast partner, a brilliant collaborator, a natural problem solver, and a creative thinker. It has been an absolute honor to work alongside her through all the challenges that we have faced. I will miss hearing about her kids who are all here and our new additions to her family, bouncing ideas off of her, but mostly I will miss the support that she has brought just me and our entire district. Thank you. And I'm up again. Jennifer Henderson. What can I say about Jennifer? Um, from the

072very first day that I started at Wachi School District, I knew that we were going to hit it off. Over the years, I've had the pleasure of working along alongside her in multiple capacities. And every single one of those roles, she has proven herself to be remarkably hardworking, fiercely honest, and a total smartass. Uh, which to be honest is one of my favorite personalities. Uh, for the last six years, Jen has served as our payroll director. stepping into that role, she spent the majority before stepping into that role, she spent the majority of her years as our payroll specialist, a job I bet she thought she'd be retiring doing. But today, I want to focus mostly on the most successful and probably the most challenging years with the district as a payroll director. The amount

073of respect I have for this woman is truly immeasurable. What most people probably don't realize is that Jen never actually wanted to be the payroll director. She was not chasing that title. She was not looking for more responsibility. But when we found ourselves in a tough spot, unable to fill that position with a qualified person, Jen stepped up for our team and our district. She came into my office and I literally think she leaned against my uh cabinet and said, "If I have to do it, I will." And that's all about all it took. Taking on the payroll director role meant steering our district through some of the most turbulent times we've faced. Payroll is a thankless job. When everything goes perfectly, nobody says a word. But the moment there is a glitch or an

074issue, it it is a crisis and it has to fix be fixed immediately. When Jen took the payroll director job, there was no training. There was no soft launch, but there was two weeks before the payroll deadline and there was no replacement for her current role. So, she did both. I um I have never, and I do mean never, seen anyone work so hard. The statement work so hard is even an understatement for how hard she worked. Specifically, the first few payrolls when nobody could help her because we didn't know what to do. During her years as payroll director, Jen faced regulatory changes, specifically the dreaded PFML, software headaches, and stressful and very tight deadlines. Yet, she's handled it all with professionalism and her humor. There may have been a few tears that we won't

075talk about. She proved that you don't need a fancy master plan to be an incredible leader. just grit, the heart for the people you serve, and willingness to roll up your sleeves when needed. I know I speak for our entire team and likely the entire district when I say you have been the pillar holding our department together. We are so happy for your retirement kind of, but truth be told, we are going to be left with a massive hole in our team. Well, there we were last fall in the district vault for the reason I cannot remember, but there I was with the Karen, myself, and the finance team, uh, traversing the darkness, clearing out the cobwebs, lighting the way with our torches, and there we found it, the board minute archives. and there 1993

076pulling it out and blowing off the dust. We turned to September of 1993 and found the consent agenda and there in the personnel report they had recommendations uh for new staff joining the district and some of them join uh some of the names I you know perused them jumped out. There was Janet Hill our student support specialist who retired last year. Uh there was a certain Bill Eagle who was joining as math teacher at high school. But right above Bill's name, there was Karen Walters, who was recommended to join the district central office as accounting assistant. And for over 30 years with a brief sojourn at the ESD, uh Karen Walters has been an amazing and steadfast member of the Wache School District. Uh, I've had the privilege of working with Karen for the last

077four years and I've really appreciated her collaboration, her work ethic, and her integrity. And one of the things I learned um when joining the district is learning all the idiosyncrasies and the culture of the district and all the personalities and all the adventures we encountered over the last four years. Um whether it was surplusing vending machines or encountering inspiring art collectors or receiving headscratching requests from the auditors, uh Karen was there uh to guide me and the rest of the finance team and the district in handling these situations. Um one of the things I really appreciated too working with Karen, she's a very collaborative person. I really appreciated her commitment to uh document documentation. Uh even in the 21st century, it's all about having a paper trail when it comes to finance. Whether it's actual

078paper or whether it's on a computer, you need that documentation and she knew how to document and that was always welcome. Um I also appreciated her historical perspective. Whenever I came up with an idea or, you know, was bouncing things off of her, no, we tried that 15 years ago. didn't work then, it's not going to work now. Um, but overall, uh, one of the things I have really appreciated with Karen, not only Karen, uh, but also Marsha, who retired a couple years ago, and Denise Watson is, uh, I really appreciated all of their experience and their support when I joined the district, um, at the time with all multiple budget reductions and having such an amazing team, amazing experienced team allowed me to focus on on focusing on the budget and on the long-term

079implications for the districts. Well, they were able to handle the day-to-day finances and I was able to support them. I always could, but I felt like they they were supporting me, especially Karen during these last four four years. So, Karen, really appreciate your help. Congratulations on your retirement and thank you for all your work. Yeah. All right, Jeff, come on up here. Jeff Jagger. So, >> I brought my back. >> I The Mission View fan club always follows not far behind. Um, Jeff, thank you for um being a a mentor to me and a friend uh all all these many years together. And as you saw earlier, Jeff uh Jeff does poems for Mission View. >> And so I did a poem for Jeff. This is for principal Jeff Jagger. A legacy at Mission View.

080Take my glasses off here. For 24 years, you've walked these halls with grace, a beloved and steady leader, always in his place. Every student seen and valued. Every child to belong. A culture built on kindness, compassion ever strong. From Terminal Avenue with the mountains standing near, you built a school where excellence and joy were always clear. Mission View has flourished under your devoted care. A thriving fun place honoring every soul is very rare. You led not from behind a desk, but out among the crowd, modeling the joy of learning, making every moment proud. You set the bar up high and kept expectations bright and reminded staff and students that great learning feels right. In professional learning communities, you planted every seed. The teachers grow together and together students lead. You championed every learner and lifted

081every voice. You made Mission View a school where every child could rejoice. Incl Yes, thank you. Inclusive, warm, and wise. You saw the whole child every day. You never left a student lost or struggling along the way. High expectations were your signature in art, a principal who led with both his mind and all of his heart. So here's to you, Jeff, as you turn this brand new page to mornings full of freedom and well-deserved new stage. You gave this school community your finest years, and Mission View will honor you with gratitude and cheers. The hallways echo with with the laughter, learning, and love you gave, the standards that you kept, the countless students that you saved. Thank you for the many years of leading every day. Your legacy at Mission View will never fade away.

082Thank you, Jeff. >> I love it. Okay, and last but not least, certainly Kim White. Let's have you come up here, Kim. So, I'm going to say a few words and uh and then we have a special guest that will uh will close us out tonight. So, Kim, I've had the privilege of knowing and working with you for the past 25 years in some capacity. 27. Yeah. Okay. 27. Sorry. Um she was leading Wanchi High School uh as an office manager when I was a new teacher and I was trying to work through the many things I needed to learn such as travel requisitions, substitute plans, and just learning how to work the fax machine. Then we really got to know each other um when I uh moved from the classroom into the assistant uh

083principal uh position there under Michelle Wadikas who is here with us tonight. Um and we worked all of us worked long hours to ensure that we were getting work done and providing uh for our students and whether it was frost success or pause time we were doing the work. And it was during this time that Kim Kim and I became really good friends. Um and then I left uh to go lead at Westside for 10 years. And it's just been a joy to come back over the last five years. We talk about things coming full circle and Kim and I have been able to work together uh the last five years very closely the last three years uh intimately as we work through our our work together. Here are some things about Kim. She sets

084a high level of standard for herself and the work that she does. If you ever want to s uh to excel and succeed, have someone like Kim who does quality work to the highest standard and strives to make you and the district look good at all times. So, thank you for that. We appreciate that. I need all the help I can get. Uh Kim is loyal as the day is long. She works hard to ensure that the district is a better place because of her efforts. And she was always ensuring that the board and the superintendent have all of the information that we need to make informed decisions to work collaboratively together for a stronger school district and a more meaningful outcome for our students. Kim, you've put in your time. You've left your mark

085and your legacy. And we love you. Please enjoy the next chapter. And this is what I'm hoping for Kim. lazy days by the lake with your grandkids and your family. And I know that she will never pass a casino that needs some time. She will never do that. She will never do that. And most of all, live each day as you do now to the fullest. Thank you, Kim. And we have some we have some special special words from former Wanche High School principal Michelle Madikas. >> Oh no. Oh no. Experience. >> Very very lots of wisdom. >> Well, I was going to do a poem, but Jeff Jagger always has to do that. So, good evening. It's an honor to have the opportunity to recognize and celebrate someone who's been an intricral part of

086the Wanche School District for many years. Sorry, I'm It's so good to see Kim. Anyway, um during my two years as vice principal and six years as a principal, I had the privilege of working closely with Kim and I can say without hesitation that she is the finest administrative assistant I have encountered in my 40 years in education. Many people see the work that happens in a school office, but few truly understand how much depends on the person at the center of it all. It's not the principal. Um, Kim has been the welcoming face for students, the trusted resource for teachers, the reassuring voice for parents, and a valuable connection to community members in my time as principal. What was always impressed me most is her unwavering dedication. No matter who walked through the door

087or called on the phone, Kim treated them with kindness, respect, and professionalism. She understood that every interaction mattered and she made everyone feel valued. Her work ethic has been second to none. She approached every test with care, accuracy, and a commitment to excellence. Whether managing the countless details that keep a school running smoothly or handling unexpected challenges, Kim could always be counted on to get the job done and get it done well. One of her greatest strengths has been her deep knowledge of the district and its history. When questions arose, when challenges surfaced, or when perspective was needed, Kim often had the answer because she had lived through it and helped navigate so many of the situations that shape our schools and community. The success of a school depends on dedicated people working behind the

088scenes. And Kim has been one of those exceptional individuals who whose contributions cannot be measured simply by a job description. Her influence has been felt in every classroom, every office, and throughout the community. Kim, thank you. you I had a joke for Kim, but it wasn't appropriate for a large group, so I wrote it in the letter I sent her. But anyway, um thank you for the years of her service, your dedication, your loyalty, and countless ways you have supported students, staff, families, and administrators here. You have made a lasting difference, and your impact will be felt for many years to come. Congratulations on your retirement. It is welld deserved. I wish you happiness, good health, many wonderful adventures in this next chapter. And I want to thank you. Well, first I want to tell

089Corey I did train her for him to be Yeah. So, okay. I did. Thank you. Thank you for all you have done for me personally and professionally. I love you. Yes. >> So that concludes the first part of our agenda, the bright spots. Uh so we want to thank everyone for their time. You are more than welcome to stay. We have a couple of other wonderful presentations. Uh but we want to thank everyone for the experience in the room and for the time you spent. Board members have to stay. Get to stay. Board members get to stay. Thank you. >> Hey buddy. See you. All right, since I know we still have a lot of other board business, I'm going to get us going. Um, Kim, since she's still not off the hook, do we

090have citizen comments today? Yes, we do. Okay. So, I want to read this our spiel. Uh, we will now move on to the citizen comments. If any member of the public would like to make a citizen comment, please sign up online 50 minutes before the meeting or complete a citizen comment form. Forms are available at the room's entrance and should be returned into board secretary Kim White. Unless translation is required, each comment is limited to 3 minutes. Miss White will keep a timer that will notify you when your time expires. Individuals that need translation or interpretation will be given four minutes to make a comment plus the time needed to complete translation. Please be aware the board's role is to receive comments. They will not respond to questions or challenges and the board silence does

091not signal agreement or endorsement of the speaker's remarks. So, who do we have for number one? >> The f first person we have is Kathleen Maguire. Kathleen, are you here? >> Thank you. Um, Dr. Kalahar, President Jackson, and members of the board. Um, I didn't mean to be the first person to follow all of that amazing presentations that we just had, and it's very clear that, um, our district has an immense amount of talent um, in it. Unfortunately, a lot of people are leaving, but we obviously have uh, so much more talent. Um, and I just wanted to acknowledge that that was phenomenal to listen to. Um, my name is Kathleen Magcguire. I am a parent in the district. Um, as well as a volunteer on the YesEs for WACI schools committee and a member

092of the design advisory committee um that we'll hear more about um having to do with the bond. Um, in all of these rule roles, I have seen the need for this bond um as well as the thoughtful process surrounding its inception with input along the way from students, staff, and community members. The current building's challenges across the district are real and so is our opportunity to create a lasting legacy for our valley and our children. Our children deserve to learn in healthy spaces that foster their sense of self as well as community. Teachers and staff need to have the tools to meet modern education demands. And the community needs functional and welcoming spaces to continue the work of building a shared history. The time is now and the need is now. So to the board,

093please vote yes on the resolution to approve the bond and place it on the ballot in November. And to our community, please also vote yes to support our children, our teachers and staff, and our future. Thank you. >> Thank you. Mercer Harless. Hello, my name is Mercer and I'm a student at Foothills Middle School. I'm looking forward to a new high school. Even though I only get one to two years there, it would be a good idea to get a new high school because the current design has no windows in the classrooms, poor um air conditioning, and it doesn't meet all the students learning needs. Some positive outcomes I hope to see are bigger windows, more room for students, better air conditioning, more classrooms, and more spaces for students to These are some great reasons

094why why we should get in high school. Thank you for listening my speech. >> Thank you, >> Mattaline Barlay. Okay, hopefully I'm not too awkward here. I'm used to doing radio, not public speaking. So anyways, yes, I am a member of the Yes for Wachi Schools Committee, uh, the pack, and we want to get the bond placed on the ballot for 2026. So, we're hoping that you guys are going to vote yes on it. Um, my why, as a parent, my son is now in high school, so he's not going to be really affected by it, but he went to John Newberry and Orchard Middle School, and his education was impacted by it. There were days where they had to cut days short or um wear different dress dress wear and um yeah, so it

095just wasn't really the most exciting thing especially for fire season and I don't want to see that happen for the future generations to come. Um another why for myself personally is my niece Freya. My mother is raising her on section 8. My brother is no longer with us and she has a story like a lot of kids where there is no choice for them to go to any other school other than public school. And you know, that's a lot of the people where they say, "No, no, no. They want their kids to go to private or homeschooling." Well, a lot of people just don't have that option. And that is my why for why I want to fight to get this bond to pass on the 2026 ballot. So, I really hope that you guys

096are going to vote for it to be on and that you will have a big team of people. As you can see, there's some of us here, but there's a lot more of us um to definitely fight for the vote to say yes. So, thank you. >> Thank you. Lynette Westonorf. >> Hi, I'm a member of the uh public and a and a supporter for the Yes, we're Renanchi schools. Um I joined the volunteer early on in the uh at the cider core downtown and um I just want to encourage you to Yes. make sure that this gets on the ballot. Uh it's I hope that every member of the voting public I wish that every member of the voting public could have heard all the dedication uh that was expressed here this evening and

097I'm a proud mother of uh a faculty member of Wanche High School, Ruben Hart. And I'm very glad to be here and be working in this this capacity. >> Thank you. All right. Looks like that's it for our citizen comments. Thank you everyone. Um, oh wait, we got one more. We usually don't You guys really, really need a new track. I have had a granddaughter there for four years and it causes shin splints on all the runners. There's a dip on the fourth corner where one of the athletes got injured and it's embarrassing when we have only one meteor here because the words out this place is not good for track meets. Eastmon's a dream and I mean we have one portaotti. It It's just It's not a track. You probably know that if you're

098familiar with tracks. If you're not, go to Eastmont. You'll see one. They have a pretty new one. It's pretty compared to a school, brand new school and all the other things you have on your agenda. But if you're going to have track in your school, you need to have a a fair and safe facility. That's my opinion. Thank you. >> Thank you. >> Okay, one more. One more. Two more. Two more. Okay, we'll keep rolling. Thank you. Appreciate the board being here in this topic. So, I've been sitting on our long-term financial plannings uh commission in addition to facility planning. I know it's a tough challenge. Certainly, you know, we want to keep in consideration what the public thinks of our spending and of course our ass. Having just sat on this process with Rivercom,

099I think we're on the right path to at least make sure we're putting out the proper information to our district uh to our students and of course to members of our public and their parents as well uh the parents of our students uh continue to invite them in the high school. So I do have three kids in Wii school district and I would say that it is disappointing to see that the correctional facility that we have in town has better air conditioning facilities within it and our students have. Um I don't say that out of disrespect. I think it's just the reality of what we have. Uh certainly what I'd be asking, of course, is to take in consideration the hard work the members of our community put in on the long-term financial planning uh

100piece, also the facilities planning piece and put that information out to the public. Again, I'm a huge supporter that the citizens should have an opportunity to make decisions for themselves, but I also think it also assists, which we also saw with the Rivercom initiative that we put forth when we put the 110% on there was just to properly educate them, let them know if their funds would be paying for. But I would agree. Um I've also seen the track uh coach for the school district here as well. Um I do have concerns of the injuries uh that it produces. Of course, that's not my number one driver. Uh number one, I just want to make sure that our students in the future, again, I don't believe any of my kids will be in the high

101school if and when it's done. Um but overall, I do see the benefit to our community, to our students. Having been a school resource officer out of Cascade, uh when they were going through the process with Superintendent Matzenbacher, I certainly saw the uh the transition. The original high school, they would have buckets out where it was leaking. Uh there were no windows in the classroom. It certainly was a depressing educational environment. And then when you saw the new high school come online along with Alpine Lakes Elementary and Bush and Brighton Elementary, you certainly saw a change in student behavior. There wasn't as much of a I guess poor behavior being observed. Also, you just saw that it was more of a friendly, uplifting educational environment, and I think that we owe it to our students

102to at least invest in them. Uh, so later on down the road, they can invest back in us and our communities. So, I would just say, please take in consideration. I think a lot of work's gone out there. I think overall, it should be up to the citizens uh within our district to make the decision whether they're going to approve this or not. Again, appreciate all the work you do. Certainly a tough job. Uh, Superintendent Kalahara certainly recognized you took on quite a challenge when you took your position. Appreciate people in the room. here listening to this. I do feel very strongly that we should have more adequate facilities. Coming from and I'll close out at this. I grew up on the west side. I was part of North School District and was stunned to

103see that a district that's within such a financially welloff community had the high school that we have. So, it looks nice from the outside, not so nice on the inside. Again, no disrespect toward the district. I think it's just the reality of the situation. Thanks for all you do and hopefully our citizens will uh support this as we move forward and we get into school among other buildings that I'm sure will need to be addressed. But best of luck. >> Thank you. Emiline Miller. Hi, my name is Emily Miller and I'm in fourth grade. Today I'm going to present a few things why you should vote yes. high school. You might think that I can't make a difference in decision, but actually I have a strong voice and I know it. If we choose to

104build the new high school, it will affect me too. I will go to this high school if we choose to build it. If we choose to build it, I think that we should build a new high school because the new high school will have better ventilation. It will provide more space so that the the school isn't crowded and it will provide a good environment to learn. The ventilation at Lachi High School is not very good. People with asthma might have to skip school if it is too smoky because of the poor ventilation in the building. Also, if it is smoky outside, then the school will be smoky because of the poor ventilation. Last year, the school had to close for a few days because of the bad air quality. This affects student learning because students

105have fewer days to learn. Second of all, if we choose to build a new high school, it will be space in the school for students. However, right now, right now, Wachi High School is very crowded and does not have enough room for students. The current high school is at 104% capacity, leading to crowding on the halls and main areas. This could lead to people getting hurt. Limited space also makes it difficult to make electives possible. Some students may not be able to take electives because of that. Lastly, the school will provide a safe and good learning environment for people who go to the school. For example, if the child is learning in an area that is hot or smoky, then they will not be able to focus as well as a room that is air

106conditioned or has clean air. At this school that may be built, there would not there would be not only a good teaching environment but a physical environment but a good physical environment too. The children we are educated we are educating at this school will become future leaders in our valley. In brief, there are many different reasons why you should vote yes for a new high school. Thank you for your time. Thank you, Ellen. >> All right, thank you all. Um, we are now going to move on to special presentations. >> Special presentations. We want to thank our friends from Spokane, uh, who have come today to present to us. Uh, so David Bodin and, uh, Steven Clark, thank you. Um we appreciate your patience and your time as we've moved through our retirement se celebration,

107but um we are very excited to have you here this evening. Um our presentation at the last board meeting showed that we've had quite an impactful community engagement spring and uh it would not nearly have been as successful nor robust if it weren't for these two gentlemen and uh and the programs and companies that they represent. So we appreciate your creativity. We appreciate your relationship with us and uh uh helping us work toward uh a great bond that we can offer to our community. And uh yeah, please join us at the podium while Liz uh brings up your presentation. >> What a great day to to be here with everything going on. I thought following retirement was going to be hard and then those uh presentations, public comments, awesome. So making our sale real easy.

108Let's see. All right. Well, for those who remember, my name is David Bodin. I'm with Turner Towns and Hairy. I've uh been fortunate enough to be part of this process for a while now. Uh dating back to the beginning of the facilities committee uh that brought the initial recommendation uh forward. And what I'm going to do here before Stephen speaks is kind of guide us through a little bit how we got from the very beginning. So as we kind of move through again we're just going to talk about the history how we got to where we are today and then how we engaged over the last what six months four months fast uh and that community outreach how and then Stephen's going to get into really some fun stuff kind of the design of how

109it's slowly starting to come together and then uh we'll we'll talk a little about that money thing that we all need to talk about but don't want to. Uh so we look back over the long range facility planning and the board came together. So back in March of 2024 we brought the committee together and we started looking at what the district what the data behind the buildings the condition of them from a physical condition and from a functional condition. And with our partners at Teter Crocker we brought together really diverse cross-section of the community to dive into the facilities dive into the district as a whole to understand what those needs really are. So, nine sessions over 15 months. A lot was going on in that year plus um between all the buildings and we

110studied them all, went through that planning, really dove deep, really uh struggled through decision-m, but really challenged one another to figure out what the best solution was for the district and the students and the learning environment. And so, what that committee came to was we wanted to improve that learning condition in seven buildings. And that was really focused around HVAC. We talked about that air quality and the needs in the HVAC throughout the buildings. So we have seven facilities, six facilities that we want to improve that at. And then as we've all talked about, build that new Wachi High School. So we talked Yep. Exactly. All the HVAC upgrades. Really looking back, you see these seven buildings there uh and the improvements, the costs that were developed at the time uh to go through each

111of those buildings and replace boilers, chillers, uh v associated were in need. And then at this point in time, it was to construct a new high school on the existing site. We looked at the option of building somewhere separate. It didn't make feasible sense. We could fit it on the on the existing site without too much disruption to the learning environment. That's a big piece of what we've been looking through through the whole design. How do we do that? Again, we did two models. One, is it all new building or do we find a way to integrate some of the existing really great features of the existing high school. There are some, it's not all bad as we heard. It's not all bad, but take those newer spots, give it some new life, and how

112do we integrate uh those modernized areas. So, coming out of that resol that recommendation, we felt the need to how are we going to engage the community? How are we going to engage staff and really build up a lot of excitement toward hopefully this November 2026? And we're fortunate enough to bring on uh Stephen Clark and the Integris team uh to do a lot of that work. So, let him present from here. President Tucker, nice to see you again. And board members, thank you for the time tonight to share the results of some of our great work over the last four months. And uh please if you have questions along the way, don't be afraid to ask. But I know uh uh commissions director Hagglin shared a lot of the engagement process uh the last

113board meeting, but just was a reminder of all of the various uh groups and different sessions that we've been able to have over the last very quick four months. things have gone really fast this spring, but uh it's been exciting to spend a lot of time in the district uh in the community, getting to know staff, teachers, students, and really getting to understand the heart um of the educators here and the needs of the high school. And so we wanted to share just a little bit of the outcomes of those tonight. um a lot of the through all the sessions several members of our DAC that were here tonight and uh teachers that we saw retiring even that we were able to meet with over the process uh working together with Peter Crocker on the

114edspecs and then moving through all the various uh design committees and so out of all of those things we heard a lot of sort of key um sort of key features that were important to the various groups and so up here on the top you'll see our kind of adult our educators our design advisory committee and our students below and some of the things that came out. You kind of highlighted there safety and security being the top of both groups and then kind of interesting to see uh some of the differences. A lot of uh connection outdoors were important but maybe uh spaces for for students understanding that the traffic needs getting in and out of the building and then the circulation around the building being really really high priorities across all of our uh

115various groups. And then uh one of the exercises we did, we talked a lot about what's the heart of the school. What does that really mean? Both from a a physical space and also from a conceptual level as well. And the things that popped out from that were the the sort of the large scale shared learning environments which are the the gym, the performing arts, the commons where people eat and gather and meet after school and being able to understand kind of those those central pieces that are important to the building. And out of that also social gathering and community event space. We learned so much about the number of events that the the high school hosts throughout the community for in the uh in the performing arts center or the auditorium here at the

116high school and as well as the other, you know, spaces that are youth in the high school from 6:00 a.m. in the morning until 10 p.m. or later at night. This place is packed with community events on a regular basis. And then uh living in such a great and wonderful beautiful place, that connection to the outdoors, to the views, to Saddle Rock, to the rest of the community were things that kept coming up over and over again and became uh important to our uh design process. and through a series of uh image explorations as well as some tours that we did with members of the of staff and the community advisory committee starting to understand what is the look and feel for Wan that what is the right identity and what's the right expression of

117a building for Wanachi so that we could bring something back that feels like it belongs here and couldn't fit anywhere else and these are just some of the outcomes of those uh you see different types of spaces but a lot of uh wood connections to nature um some identity, some pops of color, some things that felt more like WACI than others. And these were the results of those conversations. We also took a look at other relationships within the building. Uh working with staff and students to understand how things need to be connected, how students move through the building during the day, how staff work together. Uh this is part of our process that helped us identify the needs that needed to move into the floor plan. And then from there, um community outreach, we had

118the opportunity to be here on a couple weekends. um to be at uh the Apple Blossom Festival, the parade, um we touch a truck, we at Larasa, lots of spaces in addition to all the great spaces the the district was at as well with some of the support materials we're able to provide. Um hearing and giving people from the community the opportunity to provide input. We talked to a whole lot of people that had no idea that there was a bond potentially coming this fall. And so it was great opportunity to share sort of what the vision for the new high school could be and also be have give them the opportunity to share what their needs were and what the community felt like was important to them. And from the community outreach from surveys

119uh from those in-person um intercepts we call them or interviews. uh the three really big space, the gathering spaces, the auditorium, the pool. These were the spaces that the community cared about the most in terms of things that they use and things that they wanted to um to see in a new or reimagined high school. And really, that's focusing on sort of those other thoughts there, functional layout, navigation, daylight. If you have a conversation about the high school and don't talk about windows, you're not talking about the high school. Uh and so uh everyone is excited to see what maybe that might look and feel like to to be different and change and also to help students keep up with changing technology, help teachers navigate changing technology in the spaces they work in and then

120um help everybody get in. And so out of all of those things, uh we came up with a series of five guiding principles. I won't read them all to you, but big picture, a place of belonging, designed for change. That means being adaptable, something that can be functional hopefully for more than 50 years in the future and be able to still be used in the future really centered on community. That that aspect of community use and the connections between students and staff and the community is is just uh continues to be brought to surface. And then uh shaped by culture and context really about Wachi, about this place. And then uh stewardship, being both efficient with with dollars, being providing durable materials, and really being wise stewards of what the community is offering and their

121support. So from there, as uh David mentioned, there was an option that we talked about in originally maybe reusing some of the portions of the building. And as we looked at the building, like everyone else who drives by, yes, it looks great. um we understand the challenges within, but there were a few key spaces uh that made a lot of sense to us at first glance that we needed to evaluate. And so we um took our engineering team, both structural and mechanical, electrical plumbing team, and our architectural team through sort of the major um let's say um big box spaces, the auditorium, the gyms, the pool. And as we um went through these spaces, yes, they need they need to be refreshed. They need new systems. the the shell of the space, the structure them

122themselves are actually in really great shape. The the exterior facade and spaces that don't need windows like the auditorium, that brick uh with those walls are in great great shape. And uh in the gyms really it didn't make a lot of sense to us to tear down a big CMU box to build another big CMU box. And so um we wanted to help maybe think about how we could be responsible with that. And the outcome was really that those spaces um were in good shape. And so as we looked at sort of thinking about design and how the building might be reused, the spaces that are highlighted up there, the gyms, the auditorium, and actually a portion of the auditorium that's connected to the current music classrooms, um because those are structurally linked and a

123lot of the systems run through there, it made sense to kind of package those. And so this created the baseline for how we approach design. Um, and but from a budget standpoint that we were able to keep over 100 around 103,000 square feet of of potential building, which is 100,000 square feet that we don't have to build new. We do need to do all the modernization and the upgrades, mechanical, electrical, plumbing pieces to make them functional. Um, and for some of them, like the music classrooms would be a complete gut space, but again, the roof, the walls, those things are in great shape, and we want to be able to um be wise with the resources and make use of those. From there, we wanted to maybe take a moment to talk through the preliminary

124concepts that we shared. And as a reminder, our charge was to take this through what I would consider about a 15% level of design, just enough to make sure that we can meet our budget requirements. U be able to um do some feasibility and some cost estimating based on these concepts and make real numbers that we're certain can be built upon if the bond passes. And so we went through three kind of very high level um concepts of how the spaces might that we need to replace might fit around those existing components. And out of the conversations with the various design committees um one of those key um options was selected. And so here you can see kind of the diagrammatic approach of how we're thinking about that would work. And this was kind of

125one of the things that we saw initially as as a possibility and test it out through these um design process would be to be able to build classrooms in the current high school parking lot that would allow students to move into those classrooms in a first phase while the rest of the building is demolished or remodeled over time. So you can see kind of the opportunity to build around those existing components as we talked about as being kind of the core concept of design and then remodeling those components. That's sort of the last phase of the project. And so here you can see uh the proposed site plan. Uh another thing as we're thinking about that the ball fields the existing location. Yes, we know the track needs to be resurfaced. I think she might

126have left but that is in our budget 100% to get a new track surface um within the the proposed budget. Um, and so, uh, this move student parking, uh, to the south side of the building, uh, keeps those track pieces as well. Keeping that track, even though we know the surface needs to be redone, but keeping that location potentially saves about a million dollars in cost as well. So, again, continually looking for ways that we can save money to put that into academic space and potentially save on the overall cost. And so, uh, as a reminder, this is kind of an evolution of of that concept. There's a lot of work that would yet need to be done after the bond passes to make sure all of the access and work with the city on

127traffic and all those things to make sure this works absolutely correctly. Um, but we did get, I think, pretty good buyin from faculty and from members of the cabinet and district leadership on all these components. And so um so high level overview you can see the the pieces that are shaded there are those pieces that we're keeping and then building kind of a common core which is your your dining library components your admin entry through uh is located there in the center and then the classroom bar above. And so that represents kind of general classrooms in the middle, which is where students spend the most of their time. And on either end, kind of bookending with uh some of the great um CTE programs that the district offers. And so we'll keep moving quickly. Second

128floor, a small second floor over that core space, which would have the library, which would have great views of Saddle Rock and again upper floor of the classrooms. Because this is a very large high school, moving to a twostory model. um allows for some simpler circulation. It does introduce um stairways, but because that circulation can be both vertical and horizontal, it actually reduces travel path for students. And so we think that can help with some of the um congestion and some of the other challenges that the high school is facing today as well as be efficient with our site footprint. And then in addition to that, um because of this location, how the classroom bar becomes it's almost its own building connected with enclosed walkways, it creates these great outdoor spaces for students, large courtyards.

129Um that large courtyard in the middle is is probably larger than the the gym. So, it's great space for all student gatherings, for community events. And these spaces would all be enclosed with perimeter. And then also inside of our courtyard, we have some great uh control to keep um security in those spaces as well. So move on just a little bit, but we talked about identity and I want to move on to sharing a little bit of just how we thought about look and feel for this building. Taking those images that we gathered with with input from the various groups and coming up with a pallet that makes sense. um continuing the idea of masonry because as you can see the longevity, the durability of the masonry that's still there. That's the one part of

130the the high school that's still great. Um continuing that tradition, looking at connections to landscape, um Saddle Rock, looking at the the geology of the area and and pulling inspiration from the color, from the texture to think about how that interacts with the building and thinking about a material pallet that's really hardworking and durable, that masonry, metal panel, things that will last. um and and be here 50 60 70 100 years from now. And so with that, here is a great shot kind of an overview aerial of uh this current concept. You can see right in the middle would be the entry and that uh potential entry into that large courtyard in the middle. The glass connections between the the classroom buildings and the other portions of uh the existing of the existing building that

131we're keeping. You can see them highlighted in the light brown there. The auditorium and music and the gyms as well. There would be some needed additions to those physical education spaces. You can see a little small white addition there that would pick up some of the spaces that aren't currently available as well as increase access to um the pool to the nuditorium for the public as well as provide really clear and separate entries for gymnasium for auditorium so it's easy for public to navigate their experience of arriving at the site. And then a couple character images here. Uh potential front entry of the new building here with the library above the admin space. Really great visibility out from admin to parking to student arrival. And you can see that great connection um through to a

132potential courtyard. There would be a enclosure, a fence line there that would provide that secure separation but would be able to be open and operable for public events access to that space or to the gymnasium um as well. One more. The other look we wanted to share was um that approach kind of the common approach is everyone comes from town up to the high school from that intersection of Miller and Millerale looking at trying to keep a relatively an appropriate scale for the neighborhood for the community. Yes, it's a two-story building, but if we can keep as many of those existing mature trees, providing that buffer building set back 40 to 50 feet from that uh street line as well to provide some separation, but also a nice street front that faces the community there.

133So in this case, we're kind of we're flipping that paradigm of right now you approach the building, you go to the front, you you have the experience of coming past this building and coming around to the front and finding your new entry point closer. One of the really the things that we heard from the community is that just the challenge of access for older folks getting into the auditorium, just the grade change and the the ability to not be able to really drive to a front door where you could get into the building. And so creating that opportunity to have that great access um improves some of those while taking advantage of keeping those pieces. So any questions on that before we talk numbers? Okay. >> I'm guessing it's just not in these aerial visions,

134but a fencing around the perimeter. >> Yes. Secure perimeter, single point of entry is kind of our I guess I just have a comment because I know we're only looking at like a 15% design and these are all kind of conceptual and whatnot, but I think, you know, it's certainly the responsible thing to keep what we can use, but I think that's what the community is going to have the hardest part imagining changed through spending all this money. So, as we if we go forward on this, it's getting some diagrams in front of us that says this is this is what the the new old gym will will look like or these new old because some of the people only know the school based on those spaces. And so they say, why am I spending

135$275 million for the same old gym, the same old pool? It's I know it's going to be entirely revolutionary different and these are only 15% designed, but it's it's getting that visual in your head that this will not look like the same the same space. >> Absolutely. and our so where we are in the process is that's a good reminder of of that thought. So we've we've we've pushed through this large scale community engagement to really get the feedback we need to take and we've developed this concept and over the summer our goal is to work with the communications team here um to develop sort of those key images as you talked about to be able to share with the community what they're getting um for this request. And so we have time throughout the

136rest of the summer to work on those key images so that as there's sort of a launch into your information sharing process in the fall that those are available to the public as well. >> David, you want to come back up for this one? >> I'll start us off here. Uh so looking back again back to June of 25, these were our initial prices. So we have price related to all that HVAC related work and the new high school. Uh we had conservative escalation built in getting that uh timeline out to when we saw the main part of construction occurring. So there's where we were in 25. If you look at that eight uh escalate out 29 costs for HBAC, the new high school the total and then there's the scap the state construction allocation

137program where the money is coming back the district based upon the existing square footage of the building. Uh we evaluate all that again uh as we continue to work through this design. The building has grown a little bit beyond what the existing is. We talked programs and needs, the the square footage has increased a little bit, which it brought the price up. But as then we evaluated those portions of the building that we're able to repurpose or modernize more so and keep that structure in place, we're able to actually drive the cost down. We're able to see the additional square footage and capture some additional uh state money. And all that coming out, we've dropped that initial ask which was around 295 down to 275. We go to the next slide. We talked about that

138reutilization of the existing uh components of the building saved around $27 million. So it was we're not talking small things here. Again, it will be modernized. There's no doubt. But the saving of that structure, saving of that main uh the foundations and the walls really a huge savings for what we're doing and not having to dig a whole new pool out, right? Able to modernize existing what we have. So we got that number down to the 275 and uh after recent conversations uh with the financial advisor uh brought that in around $146 a thousand happy to share if there are questions. Um so as a reminder so we um started with the initial cost model that Turner Townson had developed integris. We developed an additional cost model as we started to understand what those existing

139components might mean from a cost uh cost per square foot standpoint and the amount of dollars that would be needed to put into them. Um we basically save about 50% of the the cost of replacement as we looked at u the dollars that would go into that. Um particularly that's really important in the auditorium space. Um, as you may know that there is no other nearly thousand seat auditorium in central Washington and as we've worked with um, uh, the MAC replacement at the um, Wachi Valley College here as well as working with Columbia Basin College and their auditoriums in Spokane. The cost for replacement of these type of auditorium spaces exceeds $1,000 to $1,200 a square foot. And so it's an enormous savings to be able to keep that asset and to be able to

140keep the level of service that you provide to the community today. I don't think I could stand here and offer you this dollar value at anywhere near that price. Um we we we think we captured that savings, but um those are types of spaces that tend to grow as you get into it and as you're offering the level of space you do your community. I think that would be even sort of greater than the typical space. So, um, congrat job doing what you do with what you have now and I think you can do that better without replacing everything you've got. Um, and then addition to our work, we worked with our engineers to look at the um, the cost for that modernization to really understand what it would take to put a new mechanical

141system inside of those existing buildings and understand that it needs to be fully functional, air conditioned, heated, and have the smoke protection that you need in this community. We had an actual dollar value from our engineers for that. And then as well, we worked with a cost estimator, a third party estimator outside of our office who works with contractors and and architects all over the region and and pulls cost information from everywhere um to be able to provide us with a sort of a third opinion on that. And that cost estimated uh landed right in the range of where we were with our cost models as well. So, um, we're fairly really confident with the number that we presented today that we can build the all the square foot, all the programs, all the space

142you need at the level of service and performance that you have today in a new and fully functional space. >> So, I was going to say just I see it's the 2029 escalated cost and that's just because that's when we actually be building the building. >> We're towards the midpoint of construction as um as our target for escalation. Um, considering that's roughly how contractors think about that when they if they bid a job that's three years to build, they're going to be thinking, okay, I need to build in some of that inflation because I can't buy everything today. So, that's our our goal. And then as as we look at our cost models, we we try to think about if it was a bid that we would be maybe midpoint of that range, not low,

143not high, just so that there's some flexibility and there's contingency built into those numbers as well. um considerable amount of contingency in the estimators number to to make sure that we have all the things that we don't know about yet today with that 15% design that contingency has to cover all of those things we will discover as we work through the design together. Just wanted to also set expectations that that wouldn't be be done in 2029. This is a midpoint of construction >> construction. Yeah. >> Yeah. But also to clarify then that the we're voting the bond amount or approving a bond amount now. So that doesn't change the bond amount that gets approved. >> Correct. Yeah. That is based built into that recommendation. >> The state matches how much Cy? >> Correct. and and

144actually yeah when we think about the school construction assistant program the SCAP uh process here um the one the question that I mean I know the answer to but I think we alluded to it no matter if it's new or modernized we still get the same dollar amount from the state so that's a fantastic win for us in the process one of the things that does come up though is um I think it's important for us to know that um the SCAP model is is changing next year and so we as a district would receive less substantially less than the 83 million if we were not to pass the bond uh in November or February. Correct. Correct. >> Okay. Well, that's good for our community to know. Yeah. Thank you. The state has been working

145with districts like yours to be able to maintain that level of support through this round of bonds due to all the changes of COVID and the the difficulty of getting anything moving. And so, yeah, we're we're getting a lot of grace from the state to be able to keep those dollars so that doesn't doesn't stay in play after this round. Thank you. >> I would actually like to propose um um a modification of the agenda to move the discussion of the bond resolution to um before the preliminary budget presentation. Second. >> We vote. Is that >> all right? Those in favor? >> I. Any opposed? All right. Motion passes. So, we're going to talk about the bond resolution. What's that? Thanks, guys. I think you're done. >> You Yeah. >> Yes. >> Feel free to

146chime in. >> Yeah. >> Um and Sean, you the main event's gonna just postpone for a second. All right. Sorry. All right. So, so, uh, we've had a lot of discussion on the bond the last, uh, past year and before that with all these committees. Um, and so we just heard, you know, a lot of new information. That's exciting. Um, I'm going to I guess we just we should start talking about what we think about the proposed 275 versus the the what was the other one? 30 302 295. Um, and then whether we want to put it on the ballot for November 3rd, 2026. Who wants to go first? I guess I'll go first. All right. Should I say all the things I put down? You guys just want to hear it all and then

147you can respond to me. We'll do that. Okay. So, um I'll do the quick ones first. I think that putting it on the general the ballot with the general election. We're going to get the broadest group of the community who's going to come out and vote. And I think that this is a big ask. And I think that we're going to have a ton of people support it. I think there's other people who are going to um be a little bit more wary about adding that to their tax bill. So um I really like the idea of adding it in November so that we are getting people who are going to be there for other they're going to be voting and we're going to get the the biggest participation. So I like the November 3rd.

148Um I really like the idea of saving 20 million. I mean, uh, they're the way we've they the Integress has figured out how to layer this in, I think, is really, um, kind of limits the impact to our students that are going to stay in the building, which I think there's a lot of our kids here. So, we um you know what, we have skin in the game, but I think that uh it is a great way to to save $20 million and really still upgrade uh upgrade the um the the good bones that we have at the at the district or at the high school. Um so then those are like the quick things and this is kind of more um having been part of the design advisor committee been part of the facilities

149committee meeting uh or committee meeting or the committee um talk a lot about our priorities of the facility committee um and there's a lot of things in the district that needs help. I mean, Brian Brocky could come on here and give you the laundry list and he gave us the laundry list and um what we kind of came around to was the classroom environment was the most the highest priority. You know, we are in the business of educating kids and so if you have a building that is not allowing you to educate kids effectively, that should be your highest priority. Um especially when you're looking at the HVAC, you know, you're having ACU failing in build in buildings. We have act like a hazardous level of smoke in buildings. You know, those are those are

150things that are not going to go away. Um and they are they are meaning we're cancelling school. So, um you know, that was really something that we wanted to address and we're seeing that at the elementary, the middle, and the high school level. So, we're seeing it across the district. And when we're again prioritizing where do you put your money and if you're choosing the high school because it's the biggest and it's and it's comprehensive high schools everyone's ending up there when are you going to address the elementary and the middle school kids. So you know you really is it fair to choose when you're having kids at every level encountering hazardous potentially hazardous air high temperatures. Um, and so, uh, you know, where we got to with the facility community was that you, you

151go to the community and tell them what you need. And what you, what we came up with was HVAC at four elementary schools, HVAC at all three middle schools, and the HVAC at the high school. As we started to look at the actual cost of upgrading the HVAC at the high school, we realized that we are getting closer and closer to it being more efficient to build a whole new building. Um, especially to capture that scat money, the state matching funds. So, you know, there was a lot of um debate and a lot of uh raised voices. Um, where we all kind of came around to the new building is the way to be most efficient with taxpayers money. The addressing all the HVAC systems across the district is the most affection effective way to

152address these needs. So, um, you know, I really feel like this bond is is helping kids across the district and, um, addressing that that highest priority, which is how do we make sure that kids are able to learn the best way they can. And that's having them in buildings where they're able to be comfortable, when they're able to see natural light. And um so I'm you know strongly in support of of the 275 on the November 3rd ballot since that's what we're discussing. >> I um on top of everything that you said um one of the things that stood out to me the most were um uh the safety. Uh we live in a completely world a different world than we we were growing up as as uh students um in K12 education. And the

153high school I would say is um probably uh Sheriff Morrison left. Um but I think uh that building puts our students at a very vulnerable um situation if something terrible were to happen. There's so many point of entries um at the high school. Um I also don't want to see the whole building um in um fence off, but I think uh reducing the point of entries for that for the building um is is a key component. uh we are we as a district have been working so hard at um improving um the mental health of our students. Um and so I think um but not al not only that but also of our parents because of our current situation in our nation um with gun safety and all of that um stuff that's happening. Um

154the other thing um oh and you know as we move forward into helping our students with the mental health you know we've done the whole policy on um cell phones which I know has been a concern for parents. Well if something happened at my school if there's a shooting god forbid um you know how is my student get going to get a hold of me? Um so safety is a big component. Um again we're working on the mental health. We are expecting our students to be um again it's a different world. Um, and we're expecting them to thrive in the environment where they spend seven, some of them probably up to eight hours that they do sports or activities. Um, they're currently in a building that doesn't have the um we as as adults don't

155want to work in a cubicle that doesn't have natural light, but we're expecting our kids to learn in an environment where they don't have that natural light. Um, so this is our youth. This is this is our our future community. Um so not only would be be addressing the physical uh health of our students but uh the mental health and safety. Um I too was um well I think probably most of us um I think we need to also put more focus on this is not I the high school is the main project but as a parent of a middle schooler um we were significantly impacted this last couple of years with um half days um early releases. Uh so I think if we need to put more emphasis on the benefits that all other

156um seven six six schools will will have um because you know you think well my grandkid you know um they're they're fine they're elementary school. Well no but your grandkid is going to go to elementary or at middle school um and the high school. So I think in general um I am fully in support of the 275. Um I know this is this is for for this reason if we if it's presented as it is right now um as we are uh as it was presented to us for this discussion I am fully in support of the $275 million um bond. Um, I think by doing this and keeping what we can, it shows that um, even though we've had turbulent times with our budget, we are we have worked so hard to be fiscally

157responsible and by going in this direction, um, it continues it continues that commitment to our uh, our responsibility to our students but also to our community. Um, let's see what else have I got here. Uh so one of the things that I I noticed that was really interesting and I'm not a numbers person. So um as we know this has gotten more and more expensive as we push it off, right? Um back in 2018 um the bond the the amount was a lot lower um because it didn't pass eight years ago. Now we're faced with a much higher um request. Um, now if we were to push it out, if if it were to fail or decide not to put it in November's ballot, then we're looking at a potential loss of close to $30

158million plus the increased um of building. Um, I think I this is all probably old news for you guys, but I think this is are really good points for our community um as we hopefully push this forward to the November ballot. Um yeah, it's just um those are really my my points. Um our life of our high school is beyond its average life expectancy. I think the average is 50 years old. Once it reaches the 40 years old, then it significantly decreases and the costs become higher. The amount that we're the money that we're throwing into um into really a money pit by prolonging this um trying to fix systems that are so old that we have to Jimmy Rig or somebody does um to be able to get clean air um for all of

159those reasons that I mentioned. Um I think this is a great opportunity for our community whether there's children uh and small children benefiting from this or older children or not. Um we all know that when there's a thriving educational system there's a thriving community. >> Yes. So, I'll kind of add to what's been said. You know, I originally was pretty skeptical about a bond. I thought maybe, you know, just given the climate for bonds that a capital improvement levy was going to be the only way we were ever going to see the improvements we needed. And as and I wasn't actually on any of these facilities committees. So, I tremendously appreciate the community, the other board members, the all the work that's gone into this um because it really it enlightened me and it changed

160my mind. A capital levy is not going to do what we need it to do. we we need a bond and I'm surprised to hear myself say that. Um and so now it's just let's get it passed. Um it's it's true that the the facilities are just way too outdated. It's not a healthier or safe learning environment for our students. I may have one that will end up at at the school for one year, but that is not my motivation to do this. I think Sheriff Morrison said it really well that the investment we make in our students is an investment we make back into our community. Um, it's important to set them up with a health healthy and safe learning environment so they feel excited to go to school and put their best in

161so that we get the best out of them someday as as business owners, as future parents and grandparents. Um, it's it's what our community deserves. I feel like the proposal we've got, I think originally we were told, oh, it it might be a full a full rebuild, and that seems easy, but it also seems like money falls from the sky. And so I like to see this really tailored appropriate bond. It it sends the message that we are being fiscally responsible by shaving 20 million off or 27 million off the potential cost to our consumers. That tells me that there's been a lot of thought into this and we didn't just go, let's just re rebuild it to the sake of having something full and new. Um I think it really shows a lot of

162in thoughtful intentional work by the community members, by our professionals. Um and and in some ways it saves historic places. we had some great memories in those spaces. So, why not use them if we can? So, um I I think it feels fiscally responsible to do that. I think it it's a resource to build enrollment. Um it's been one of our biggest challenges and I think it will continue to be so long as our facilities look like prisons and not attractive buildings. And and I can say this, you know, we have done so much with our pathways and the and CTE and all of those courses to keep students and and keep their money. Um because, you know, to our community, we are doing everything we can to keep students in because we know that

163we are funded from them. But our facilities are working against us because as much as we try to keep them here for college in the classroom, we will still have students that prefer running start because they get away from the prison. Um, I my daughter will tell you that I like going to the college because it's nice and new and pretty and we have windows and nice spaces. So, it's it's a thing and and I so I think it's it's our responsibility to explore every option to how do we put money back in our schools and and the facilities are part of it. Um, we've talked about that it not only helps the high school, but it's also going to help our other schools. Um, yeah, there's money in this bond specifically allocated for the

164HVAC, but by building a brand new high school, we're now not spending our capital funds on jerryrigging things together at the high school. We now have the ability to use what little capital budgets we have to do other improvements at other schools that aren't part of the bonds. And I think that's an important consideration is that this does give us an avenue to make improvements um to other facilities for the benefit of everybody. So um I think there's more benefit to this than than just a fancy new high school and some some air conditioning at some schools. So I absolutely see the benefit in it. I think the timing is critical. I think with the SCAP funding being at this precipice where it might change it, I can't fathom not running it, especially with all

165the work that's gone into leading this. This is this has not been a four-month push. This has been a two, three year intensive effort. This isn't just we're throwing it on the ballot and see what happens. This has been a really a lot of time, effort, and energy going into this. And I don't see it positioned any better than to go in November when you've got your biggest voter pool. Um, a lot more interest in it. Um, and then again with with the opportunity to have the extra funding available through the state that we would lose otherwise if we if we didn't have it, I I just think that it it's a no-brainer to run it in the uh November election. And so I am fully in support of of the $275 million um bond

166proposal to run in in November. have considerably less words than both of you because you guys have said all of you said great things. Um I just want to reiterate that I think uh public schools are a cornerstone of every great community. So when you think of all those communities that you've visited uh whether you were just driving through or whether you were there for a sport or an event um you remember that facility. We've heard uh today someone say that they've been to great facilities and um I heard casually someone saying about some facility they went to and how beautiful it was. So, I think it's really important that we remember that um for all of us, whether you have a student that's in the district, whether you have a grand student that's in

167the district, whether you don't, uh having a a nice public school facility is really going to help all of us. Um, also I firmly believe we need to give our students the facility that um, meets their needs. Right now, clearly it's not. And we've talked about how we're doing all of these amazing programs and we're uh, trailblazing on college in the classroom. Um, I know even my child is I learned that she maybe is graduating with some sort of degree. I was like, "Cool. All right. That's great." But she said, "Who wants to go to school and sit where you're freezing in one room and sweating in the other and you can't see outside?" Um, so I think that's so important. And uh, reiterating, applauding the effort that's gone into really looking at these costs

168and figuring out how we can do this, um, the right way, but also the most cost-effective way. And I end it with if not now when. >> Okay, I'll bring up the rear. Um, as somebody who works in basically a jail cell, I will say having windows is a real treat. 100%. Yeah, I work in an actual jail and my office is like basically a cell. Um, this little tiny window. Um, yeah, it's better than the high school. I have I technically have a window. Um, so as somebody who is not as seasoned in the community, I haven't been working as long, don't have kids, um, I was not super excited to hear about the bond. It's like, okay, I can't barely afford life as it is. U, but now we're gonna ask for a

169bunch of money. Um, but the more that I learned about it, the more that I talked with everybody, the more that, you know, I listened to the community, um, it really enlightened me that like I think we should all be willing to change a little bit of our lifestyles if it means bettering the students and the future of our town. Um, and I would say that probably most of our community is willing to do that. Um, which is amazing. I mean, Wachi is really special in that way that we all kind of come together um to really build upon what our best assets are and that's our kids. Um working in in the jail with um a lot of the truency and and offenders and non-offenders of of our kids. Um I think most of

170the kiddos that are truent would say that they don't like going to school. And it's not the teachers, it's not the subjects, it's it's the environment, it's the building, it's the uh lack of belonging that they're feeling from being undervalued in the space that was not created for them. Um, and I think changing that would build a better platform for us to one save some money in the area of truency, but also get our kids back into the classroom where they need to be. um lessen their time outside getting into no good and you know making some poor choices. Um if we can just build upon that environment of safety and love and belonging for them that they clearly are not seeking or not having right now. Um we need to start prioritizing our youth

171across the board. Um and I mean just go back to Maslo's hierarchy. If they don't feel warmth, if they don't feel safety, if they don't have food or shelter, they're not going to learn. So, we got to start at the bottom. >> Well, I'm not going to follow all that stuff. So, do we have any more discussion? >> Just for clarification, we're just discussing this resolution and it will be presented for >> 23rd >> next week. >> Yep. All right. Thank you everyone. Thank you for not having to weigh in but being there being available anyway. Um and then Corey, you want to swing us back to >> Absolutely. Then come back to the main event >> next week. We'll be here still. >> Yes. Excellent. >> Yes. >> 23rd. >> In the 23rd. >>

172Yes. Yes. Thanks everyone for joining us. Um and uh thank you gentlemen for coming from Spokane and staying uh throughout the evening. We appreciate it. Um, we will transition to uh, executive director of business and finance, Sean Fitzgerald, for uh, what he lovingly calls the main event. And I like it. Come on up, Sean. We'll get you started. >> If you can find your way, >> you can navigate the maze. >> Yes. Excellent. It's crumble cookies. Tough competition. All right. Well, thank you uh President Jackson, members of the board, Dr. Kalahar, uh board member Emoretus Martin Baron in the audience. Uh it's great to be here tonight to present uh part one of our 2627 preliminary budget. Uh tonight we'll be going over capital projects, debt service, ASB and transportation vehicle and in two weeks

173we'll be covering the general fund. Uh so district fund structure uh governmental accounting operates on a fund basis. So a fund is a self-balancing account um uh designed for specific activities or objectives uh in accordance with laws and regulations. general fund is the largest fund uh makes up about 85 to 90% of the district budget. Uh the for context the 24 or excuse me 2526 budget is about 86% for the general fund. Uh so we'll start off with capital projects. Uh purpose of the capital projects fund is to account for financial resources used for the acquisition or construction of major capital facilities. uh revenues and other financing sources uh generally make up sale of bonds. Uh state matching revenues, special levies uh also can include grants and transfers from the general fund. Uh here are

174our 25 26 year end projections. So budget versus actual. Uh so a lot of activity in our capital projects funds from prior years. Uh this is due in account to our skills center renovation grant. Uh so just kind of starting off from the top, our local support non-t tax uh that includes investment interest income and also kind of $2,500 we receive on rental income on an annual basis. Uh as you can see, we see a um did better um oh and it also includes our investment grade audit uh as well. Uh so as you can see we did better uh budget than actual in that case. Then next line estate special purpose that makes up the skill center grant. Of course we have a large variance there. We just built in a large capacity uh

175with the skill center grant. It doesn't hurt us. It's just you have large variances and it's better to be on the conservative side. Uh but just kind of reflecting our activity uh where we're at with the skill center. So about 6.6 million there. Uh and then we have our general fund transfers. So here uh did about uh $1.5 million more in general fund transfers and that was due in large part again to the skill center uh just because we're operating we don't have bonds, we don't have levies, we're operating on grants. So grants are on a cost reimbursement basis. So even though we're going to receive this funding from a state, local or federal government source, the district pay up the money upfront. And so we're using we're transferring funds from our general fund reserves

176uh to cover the initial payment before we're reimbursed by the state. Uh so when we're looking at general fund transfers, uh we had about $500,000 budgeted there for emergency preventative b maintenance. Uh then during the school year we passed the board passed the bond resolution for $1.5 million uh just to cover skill center cash flow management and then that additional about 16 to $17,000 that was just kind of sale of surplus there. Um expenditures uh we have again the bulk of that is the skill center renovation making up about the $6.6 million uh energy grant. So about $111,000 from the investment grade audit. Again, that was 100% covered through grant funding. And then we have sites about $96,000. Uh that portion was about emergency and preventive maintenance. Uh then we have other financing uses are

177anticipate uh returning certain amount of funding uh back uh from our transfer. So, it's like, hey, we're not going to spend all our money, so we're going to return a certain amount of money um back to the general fund. So, we're kind of anticipating about 350,000, a little under $350,000 there. Um and so, year end, we see we have relatively large ending fund balance, 1.9 million. Again, a lot of that is the skill center uh funding. We're keeping it in there um until next year when the anticipated completion date of the skill center renovation will occur and then that money will come back into the general fund after skill center is completed. So year end projections so a lot of grant funded activities uh skill center renovation energy investment grade audit. Then a newcomer is

178the Lincoln Elementary playground. This has just kind of emerged in the last week or two. Uh we received a grant from OSPI, $200,000 grant from OSPI for a link to renovate and get new equipment for Lincoln Elementary. Uh so probably see in a couple weeks a board resolution for $200,000 transfer general fund to the capital projects in order to cover that initial payment upfront, which we expect to occur in August. Of course, that will be 100% reimbured by OSPI. Once the project's completed, that $200,000 will return to the general fund. But you can see here, see there in the middle slide, just general fund transfer to begin skill center renovation making up the bulk followed by emergency preventive maintenance playground and then anticipation transferring back about $344,000. Uh and then maintenance projects. We looked at

179roof repairs, recreation park improvements. Barring any sort of sort of unforeseen emergency maintenance that may occur over the summer. Um especially in terms of HVAC, uh we do anticipate that at least $150,000 from the emergency and preventive maintenance transfer could be returned back to the general. >> Hey, so go ahead. I have a question just on the playground piece. How can you explain how one school gets a grant for the playground and other schools have had to use their PTSAs and things like that because we just put one in for Newberry. So, I just want to make sure it's equitable. >> Yeah. So, this is um this was a healthy kids grant uh through the state and what it is for is for adaptive playground equipment for special education students. And so Lincoln Elementary found

180the grant, sought after the grant, researched the grant, got all the quotes and the work for it, and then applied for it and got it. Um, so it's it's really more about our students with disabilities being able to access the playground equally um as well. So yeah, it's good. Very different from uh you know, a new $100,000 playground equipment at at Newberry. So that was there is it's it's good. Great question though. So Sean, I was going to ask, so as we, you know, chase more grants, because obviously money free to us is the best money. Um, but as we get closer to we're, uh, kind of flying by that minimum fund balance, >> how much flexibility do we have to go dip below the fund balance knowing that we're transferring money that will be

181reimbursed? And we're not there yet, but like I just understanding where that gets us. It's it's definitely a dance. Um I'm not concerned about it and in the short term, but it's it's always something that's on my mind. And again, it's just being aware. It's just the forecasting and being aware of where we're our reserves are at uh during the school year. And so, I mean, just for example, communication with Clash in the skill center um and pointing out it's like, hey, and you see it in the monthend financial reports. every month. Um March is always our lowest reserve time. So it's like x amount of money we can transfer over. Um we know during certain, you know, October and April is like where we're the best at and March is where we're the worst

182lowest at. Uh so let's develop a cash flow analysis uh that helps us maximize that gives us this flexibility without uh making sure while ensuring we have the reserves available. So again, it's just kind of ongoing vigilance um and and working with our other stakeholders or our contractors to ensure we have that adequate cash flow analysis um before we make any decisions. >> Great. Thank you. >> So capital projects budget and forecast. Uh so here again we can see a lot of activity planned for the 2627 school year and again driven in large part by the skill center renovation. Um if you add up both 2526 and 2627 that exceeds the grant amount for the skill center renovation but that's just building in capacity. Um because again we have a cash flow analysis but you

183never know delays can happen and assuming maybe things don't finish in December maybe they trickle on into January February we just want that extra capacity. So it's like we're not going to spend more. It's just ensuring that we have adequate budget capacity in there in case there's any delays. Um and then you can see here again general fund transfers. So going from about 2.2 2 million 25 26 to 1 million next year. So planning for next year again $500,000 for emergency maintenance, emergency and preventative maintenance as we've always done, but there's also an additional $500,000 in there for the foot foothills controller. So again, we rewarded a grant. Uh so we want to make sure we have adequate budget capacity and adequate funding that we can transfer over to cover any costs before we for

184that grant. And then you can see other financing uses at the bottom 26 27 is 2.5 million. So again, we're anticipating, hey, we're going to move back all that emergency and preventative um not the emergency funding, the excuse me, foothills controller skill center renovation. Those funings are going to be moved back and our anticipation is that okay, what'sever is left in our fund balance is kind of just going to be residual income investment interest income and then kind of forecasting out activity dies out skill center completed. um when we pass the bond, this would look completely different for our forecasts. Uh because obviously construction high school and the fusion of all that um funding would be reflected in the capital projects fund but it's not reflected here. Uh so just kind of going forward u

185without the passage of bond basically what we would see in our forecast would be okay local support non tax we're just earning interest on our investment income and then we would have to rely on fund transfers uh for emergency and preventative maintenance. >> And again, if that bond passes, we the bond is going to be the money up front, not like we're having to front $275 million and then be reimbursed by someone. >> Correct. So bonds, when you're talking about cash flow activities, bonds are your best scenario because you have the money up front. bond is passed, it is available. So you don't have to go through the reimbursement basis. Then levies are your next you know next ideal scenario and then followed by grants. Um but no when the bond just passed and you

186have that infusion of cash that funding is available 100% up front. Um so just kind of summarizing budget and forecast again grant funded activities skill center foothills controller um great to have those grants 100% reimburseable but again general fund transfer for the cash flow management and then our anticipation for next year it's like we'll see maintenance 500,000 500,000 for the controllers and then transfers back um just again for maintenance we've identified a couple of projects, Valley Academy irrigation, Luc and Clark walkway walkway improvements, and then an additional just $250,000 the capacity there for any sort of emergency repairs. So, if we don't use no emergencies arise or if there's no like significant projects that are identified during the year, we can return those back to the general fund. All right. And then again, just summarizing

187capital projects. Any questions before we move on to the next fund? Debt service. Uh so again, purpose and background purpose of the debt service fund is to pay back principal and interest on outstanding bonds. So we currently have one outstanding bond uh that was refinanced in March of 2024. So again, we saved taxpayers $6.6 million through that financing. Our previous bond was paid off. The 2010 bond was paid off during the 2122 school year. So with our 1 outstanding bond uh that was refinanced, we expect to fully pay it off in 2033. Debt service projections again very straightforward. Um principal and interest payments. Um we follow our our debt schedule that's you know prepared and reviewed by Piper Sandler. right on track in terms of making our principal and interest payments. Again, we're our anticipation

188for uh local levy collections uh is to be on on or near point. Uh and really the only difference we're seeing in variances would be our in our local support contacts which is just made up of one investment interest income and also budget capacity. So we put in about $100,000 of budget capacity that we didn't have to use. Uh so you can see that balances out both on the support non- tax and revenues and bond transfers fees. So really there's only a variance of about $15,000. So we're we were anticipating about $100,000 in interest income, but it looks like we're going to come in a little bit less under that. Uh that being said, a very healthy fund balance uh and we're in good shape for going forward uh with our debt service fund. Um

189and again, just looking out four-year forecast again, sticking to the bond payment schedule for principal and interest that has already been mapped out all the way to 2033. and then working with Piper Sandler uh to develop uh conservative um kind of levy collections that allow us to maintain just the healthy fund balance reserves. Um and again when the bond is passed those fund balance reserves can be utilized uh to help us when structuring bond payments uh for the new bond as well. Uh so that's why we have that extra capacity. That's why we're sitting on you know projected about $3.6 million in ending fund balance. Like, okay, what are we g what are we using that for? What are we sitting on? Well, a bond, an additional bond is passed, those funds could be used

190to help offset and structure uh future tax payments. Any questions on debt service? Moving on to ASB. So, designated for activities or events that are uh we use the acronym cars, cultural, social, recreational or athletic. These activities are also optional, nonredit and extracurricular. Uh financing is through fi fees, fines and donations and ASB funding is restricted. So funds raised for the purpose of ASB stay in ASB. They can be used for no other district purposes. So we're not going to see these funds transferred general fund capital projects transportation vehicle again year projections with capacity. Uh so overall um again you see a kind of a larger variance here uh just finishing with revenues and expenditures uh or excuse me less than so coming in less than but we have to take into account uh once

191we take out capacity uh that we're actually kind of doing better than budget. Uh so in terms of once capacity is removed from revenues uh coming in about $95,000 higher on the revenue side and coming up a little bit lower on the expenditure side. Uh so seeing about a growth of about $154,000 where we finished. So overall uh ASB is kind of in a healthy space. Budget and forecasting um as you can see uh a lot more activity um projections versus next year's budget. Of course, you took out, you know, about we have about $250,000 in capacity. Uh so it's closer to maybe, you know, that variance, you know, oh, you know, 26 27 budget total revenue is 1.5 million. Well, it's more closer to maybe 1.2 or 1.3 million once you take out capacity.

192Uh likewise with expenditures, but also just working with the ASB, working with the schools, a lot more planning for increased club activities and fundraisers. Another thing that's kind of come out of just the last two years, working with the state auditor's office, uh because the last two years they've been looking at ASB activity is really emphasizing the need for planning uh and really putting your fundraisers, really putting those in your budget and having those in the forefront of your and they're reflecting your budget activity. Uh so that's why you can see a lot that's why we're seeing that kind of larger variance between the projection and our budget. Uh it's just more forethought, more planning uh going into our ASB budgets at all of our schools. I will just add that like having talked to

193people at the high school who are now working with BJ and have been really amazed at how much they didn't know and and that that wealth of information that BJ's bringing to that and sounds like helping us kind of keeping keep on top of the finance. So >> absolutely yes >> kudos to BJ. >> Yes, BJ's done a great job of organizing and planning this ASB activity for next year. Last but not least, our transportation vehicle fund. Uh so again, purpose of the fund is purchase those yellow school buses and any sort of maintenance uh revenue primarily comes from bus depreciation reimbursement. So that is our state funding. We can also be funded from transportation vehicle levies debt. We get a small amount from investment interest income transfers from the general fund surplus sales uh

194of older uh no longer used school buses. And then again with expenditures, they're reported when the buses are delivered, not when they're ordered. Um so a lot of changes to this fund that occur during the 2026 legislative session. Uh so now we're paying I would say prior years has always kind of the easiest and most straightforward of the funds to budget and plan for. Uh not so much now due to 2026 legis legislative session. Uh so they reduce school bus depreciation funding both statewide by $21 million. So the impact we received came out to about we're receiving 37 thou $37,000 less than we anticipated. Uh so you can see our budget was at 378 and then before the legislative session was tracking near 391 and then the impact of the legislative sessions like that forget

195354 instead. Uh so that's both coming under both our budgeted and revised projections. And then even though it seems like a small amount and it's almost 10% of overall revenues. Uh so it it's going to have an impact uh both in the short and the long term. Um overall with our year end projections again we can see coming in less on the revenue side. Um and then uh however we also did better on expenditures as well. So we budgeted for 631 the buses came in less than the quoted price. Uh so we paid about 580. So that was a savings of about $51,000. Uh but overall though we did see decrease in our ending fund balance. Hoping we finished at 320. We ended up at 292 and again the impact of the legislative session is

196accounting I would say primarily accounting for that difference. Uh so year projections investment interest less than expected and then depreciation reimbursement less from legislative sessions and then we did do source we did a general fund transfer of $150,000 in there this year to help with cash flow management. uh we will be returning that funding um back to the general fund at year end once we do get a reimbursement. Again, a positive buses came in less than quoted prices. Um and then emphasizing again their cash flow management. Uh going forward, uh we're kind of going into unknown territory with the transportation vehicle fund uh because we don't know what the updated numbers are from the state. So we are using dated numbers for depreciation reimbursement. I had reached out to OSPI uh if they had updated

197uh schedule you know funding schedules and they said they were currently working on it uh but they had no ETA. Uh so we're kind of working with the best knowledge we have. Uh so we have kind of the numbers they pretty have previously have been using and I took out just like $40,000 for each year. So like assuming that we lost $40,000 this year, let's just build that in to be safe uh for our budget and forecasting. Um I've also increased although transfers from the general fund projected to be lower uh than this year. Uh still may still might have to budget just to be prepared because again we just don't know what funding we're going to get from the state just yet. Uh so to be you know be forewarned to be armed. Uh

198so that's what the purpose of the budget is. Um so a lot of uncertainty here and that's what we're going to prepare for until we get some more solid numbers from the state. >> And the depreciation numbers we don't have because they changed how long we have to hang on to our buses for. Right. >> Correct. So the the change during the 2026 legislative session increased the replacement cycle by two years. Um so now we're just kind of waiting on those numbers what that actual impact is. Uh so we know what it is for 2526 lost $37,000. Uh so we're just going to build in a $40,000 reduction every year just to be on the safe side. Uh but again cash flow it's planning and again looking at our general fund when we can make

199those transfers transfer them back at year end once we get reimbursements. Uh but right now our current plan again vehicle acquisition is purchasing two u two buses per year the type D buses so kind of the normal larger buses. Uh but we also have to be paying attention to our special education means um and it's like if we have to purchase a type A in the foreseeable future how are we going to fund that? So again just waiting on updated funding numbers and how we can better plan for the next few years. Any questions on vehicle fund? So, budget timeline June 10th followed by June 23rd. We'll be back here doing the general fund. Uh July 10th, as usual, budget is due to the ESD as per state law. And then we have a public

200hearing set. You know, they will do their review. ESD will provide feedback. We'll make changes to the budget based on their feedback. And then I'll be back here in August for public presenting our final budget and the budget adoption for the 25th. Any other questions? Thank you. All right. So, since we already did our discussion, we get to go straight to action. Um, this is for the superintendent's contract. I know we've all had a chance to review it. Do I have a motion to approve Dr. Kalahar's new contract? >> Move to approve uh the new superintendent contract. >> I'll second. >> All right. It's a move by Julie and seconded by Maria. Any discussion? >> All right. Oh, yep. Yep. Yes. >> Um I would like to just thank Superintendent Kalahar for his work in

201education to the school district. um this contract um is welld deserved to re in my opinion um to uh continue him as our leader for the school district. I think today was an example of his great leadership. Um we've held retirement events in this room uh in past years and I can say in the last six years this has been the best attended event. Um and so that just shows the dedication and um the trust that um the our our buildings, our c school community has put into the leadership. Um you've taken us through some very turbulent times with the budget. Um you inherited u some turbulency there. Um and you have navigated it with full transparency and um you know we have been able to um work very well and um you know they

202say behind a great board and we were recognized for our work today. Um there's a a great leader at the helm of the district. So uh for that reason I am fully supportive of renewal your contract. >> And I'll just add since this is new we didn't revote this contract last year. So, just for anyone who's not looking at this, this is proposing a full three-year uh renewal of the contract, and this is the first uh compensation increase that the superintendent's getting in probably two years because of our budget issues, and it's a a modest one at that. So, I appreciate the hard work that you've put in and rec recognizing the the hardships of the district and whatnot. So, um I think this is fair and reasonable for the superintendent. I think he's done

203great work for the district. clearly is doing great work with the board and because of that we were recognized for it. So, um just a good trajectory given all the hardships. So, I have no problem supporting this. >> Thank you both. >> I was going to cruise right by this, but they all had really nice things to say. Corey, I was taking you for granted. I apologize. Okay, now we're gonna um vote. All right, so all in favor of adopting the contract as presented, say I. >> I. Any opposed? None. Okay, motion passes. So, super bend report. >> Excellent. Well, thank you very much for the kind words and the contract. Um, I'm really surprised this is the end of three years. It's just been a great uh journey. It's been it's had its challenges,

204but the rewards are so plentiful and um just so honored uh to be able to serve the district in this capacity. So, thank you all for the work that you do as a board. um my cabinet team for all the work that they do and the support and uh and yeah, we're we're I'm biased, but we're moving in the right direction for this school district and I'm so thrilled with that work and uh couldn't be more proud of the Wanche School District. So, thank you all. And this week has been part of that celebration from the Newberry playground ribbon cutting to uh handing out stoalls for superintendent advisory council to the WH high school graduation, Westside graduation last night, the countless other celebrations of student success that we have at the end of the year

205at this time. It's just been a blessing and I'll leave it there. So, thank you very much. >> All right. um board communication. >> Um attended my first graduations as a board member, handed out my first diplomas. Um which was kind of kismmet because it was my first class of being able to teach. So a couple of them I got to hand diplomas to them and I had them as little seventh graders. That was really really neat. Um, and just very inspiring to hear the stories from Westside of the students and having them some of them walk up with their babies and it was just very empowering and and very proud of all of our kiddos. >> Julie, I just want to congratulate all of our retirees from the district. Um, we appreciate all the

206work. Even though this room is empty now, it was well worth sitting here um to honor and recognize all of them. Some really um big retirements this year. So, thank you for everything you've done for the district. Um, I enjoyed the graduation ceremony for Wachi High School. I appreciate the board members letting me jump in quite frequently to pass out diplomas to my daughter and her friends. Um, that was a really special moment for me. Um, and I just can't believe that I've got one now leaving the school. Um, but a very well very good job done by everyone who put that on. I I thought this was one of the even though it was cold. It was a beautiful night, it was one of the more fun ceremonies I feel like we'd been to

207in a while. I just felt like the class really got into it and stuff and the speeches were great and Deborah was hilarious and very relevant. Um, but great job. Um, I'm sorry I missed Westside, but I watched it on TV and it looked amazing like it always is. I just needed a little decompression and do some other non-graduation related things. But I appreciate um all the work that our educators have done to get those kids to those big milestones and um great job with the final productions. >> Hold on, one more one more thing. Uh not school related, but um just wanted to point out that I accidentally became Julie's sister today. My matching hair. >> So yeah, aspiring. >> Do you want Do you want to discuss hair, too? uh few things echoing

208uh both graduation ceremonies and I would just say uh Wachi's is packed. Uh but if any community member has any question about the good work that our school systems are doing, uh attend one of those graduation ceremonies because it is hard not to have moments where your eyes are well enough even though you don't know these students personally, but you see them uh crossing the finish line uh facing uh all of those challenges to get there. And it was it's a pretty moving week. Although my hand has been shucking so many times. So many times I was like just starting. >> Uh I know I know, right? I attended drama and choir awards night. That was great. Um again another great example of seeing um students thrive. And I attended Pioneers um student of the

209month assembly which was um a really good end of the year or probably my last thing at the school. because he's moving on to high school next year. >> Yeah. Um I won't repeat what they said. Thank you. Um I just want to say uh congratulations to all our staff and uh teachers um and leaders uh leadership uh teams for making it through another year. Um it's, you know, it's it's always a challenge. Um but you guys did it and you guys did it with smiles and um thank you and go enjoy your summer. >> I say again another congratulations to the gra to the graduates and to all the family members that got them there. Um I would say congrats to the retirees, but also thank you to all the building leaders and all

210the the staff that that presented. I think there's always a lot of emotion. you know, you see a lot of people just like keep it together and also bring humor. Um, you know, it's a it's unfortunate that I don't have a back in 93 when I was at Newberry kind of story, but like uh it really does help you get a sense of of people who've committed such a long period of time. Um, and last I like to congratulate all of us for making it to 9:30 at a board meeting or whatever we're at 9:15. Um, but other than that, we are done. So media journed.