RRPS - Special School Board Meeting - April 8th, 2026

0019. >> Okay. Good evening. The Ranch Public Schools Board of Education special meeting for Wednesday, April 8th, 2026 is now called to order. Um, if all would please rise for the pledge of allegiance. I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all back. Okay, >> JC, can you take a roll call for us? >> President Galbreth, >> present. Vice President Muller >> present. >> Secretary Murray >> present. >> Board member Barry >> present. >> You have a quorum. >> Okay. Thank you. Um we like to welcome everyone who's here. Um we'd also like to just let everyone know that uh Secretary Murray, she's sick and so we don't want her here with us,

002but she is coming in virtually and so she'll be able to give her input um with with everything um tonight. And um from there, I'll talk more about the process that we're about to go through here in just a moment. Um but with that, we'll go to our first item um to approve our prioritized agenda and proposed time allocations. >> Board member Barry. Um I can't see my Give me this. Um uh >> motion to approve uh time allocation prioritize agenda. Sorry. I was in front of me and it turned out not to be. >> Second. >> Okay, we have a motion and a second and all in favor. >> I >> Any opposed? Okay, motion carries. >> All good. Do we need to get Did you want me to get you another agenda? You

003did >> you see it? Right in front of you. >> Right as you as you went do your thing. Okay. Um I do not believe we have any public comment for tonight. Correct. Okay. So, we do not have any public comment for tonight. Okay. So, we're going to go into um interviews here in just a moment. I want to just go over the process briefly. Um we're scheduled to start our first interview. I think we scheduled at at 4:40, correct? And I know we have um our first interview here in the room with us. Um a couple of things for those who um we have well couple of things. So, our fourth individual who we were planning to have um come, Don Rush, he wasn't able to come tonight. We also had a really difficult

004time getting a hold of him. So, we're going to just go ahead and proceed with the three interviews unless there's any objections to to that to just proceeding with what we have. Um, everyone good? Okay. Um, so we'll continue that way. So, I'm going to pull that one off of our schedule. Um, we have six questions that we are going to be going through tonight. And since we just didn't talk about this yesterday, um I can go ahead and start and then um I can take that first question and then each of you can take Yeah, we'll just cycle it. Um Rebecca, we're not going to worry about you giving questions since you just don't sound very pretty tonight. So >> I I appreciate that. Plus, my computer started glitching when I brought up the

005questions. That's why I signed off. >> Okay. >> So that I appreciate that. Thank you. >> Okay. So we'll just so we'll handle the questions and any questions from you or things that we need to discuss before we go into our first interview here. >> Will she email her? >> Yes. >> Tallies to and then we'll take a recess I guess to >> Yeah. So Rebecca, make sure you email when you're done just email those over to um your little tallies over to Jaci if that's okay. And then I think after we finish all three or do we'll Yeah, cuz that time wise that's the only thing that's going to work. So once we finish all three, we'll take a short recess just so we can get those tallied and then we'll come back before

006any discussion has been had. >> So is the tallying this might have been discussed. We didn't discuss it last night. The tallying is the winner or loser or is that just a way >> I think that we Yeah, I think we can still just open to talk. I think it'll give us an opportunity to to speak. Um are we good with having a telly or would you rather just have >> No, no. I I was just I think that's great. I just wanted to check and see if like this is the final score that once we draw that that's the okay >> I'm not I'm not great with tallies anyway so we'll probably need to have some conversation um with that other things I'm missing one hatch what am I what am I missing that

007I need to discuss >> yes thank you thanks for bringing that up and I think I thought that I had spoken to that Um, so this is an open meeting. Um, we'll start with with our first, but we ask our other two who I don't see in the room tonight. Um, we would we would be grateful if you would um, not necessarily listen in as we have our first has have our first interview and um, just to kind of create as much as we possibly can fairness. But once again, it is open. So there's we can't go and turn anyone's off or not allow someone to come into the room. So that is up to you. um in your integrity to be able to do that. Um, of course, once we get going, it it

008doesn't, you know, our our next interview is not going to have an advantage by listening to the rest of the interview. So, that's not that's not an issue. Um, anything else that I might be forgetting? >> I don't think so. >> Go ahead. >> Yeah. So, what I'm going to do is I have a stopwatch up here. I'm just going to start it. So, we'll go right to the 25. right to the 25 minutes >> now that we lost him if we >> do you want to go longer >> if we need I don't we need to >> well we still have everyone >> personally if that's unless you strongly object to that >> yes >> yeah and I'll go through that once again when we have our first interview that comes up here um

009anything else >> no I mean just uh uh the the deliberation will be can be challenging especially since we may be talking about the person who's going to be a peer of ours. So, um please be generous and kind to us as we >> stress through this. >> I know I have to say it's not super comfortable. It always takes me a little bit just going through this process, but we have wonder once again. I know we said it yesterday. We have wonderful people that applied and so we're just grateful to everyone. >> It's always it's all going to be splitting hairs. >> Yes, it is. So, okay. Um with that, if there's nothing else, anything else that that I might be um missing? Okay, I am gonna go ahead and invite our first interview,

010which is uh Richard Bruce to you can come up. We we gave you a chair so you wouldn't have to um stand the whole time. Um you can thank our our new superintendent, I think, for that. So the table um and in just a moment I'll go ahead and start our time, but I do want to let you know um as we get started. So we do have six questions. we will we'll go through the questions. We have 25 minutes for the interview. So, if we don't get through all of them, then we'll go ahead and still stop at the time um once we hit that 25 um that 25 minutes. Um but you're welcome to talk as long as you want for each of those questions. Anything else that I need to let him

011know? >> We may we reserve the right to ask clarifying questions as a follow-up, but we'll try to be respectful of the 25m minute timeline. >> Yeah, that sounds great. So, okay. Um, thank you for being here. We're excited to have you. Um, and I'm going to go ahead. I think you'll be able to have that opportunity to to tell us a little bit about yourself and all those things with this first question. Um, >> quick. Do we want to give them like a five minute warning or something like that or do we just >> Yeah. You want to be our time keeper? >> Uh, sure. Yeah, I can do it. I'll use my phone. >> I guess I have my thing here. So, >> I'll I'll wave at you and say we have five

012minutes. So, >> okay. So um with that um just quick introduction of us and I think you probably know who who we are but I'm the board president Amanda Galbreth you want to introduce yourself more vice president Michael Barry board member >> and then virtually we have uh Rebecca Murray who's our board secretary currently and once again thank you for coming in. So I'm going to start I'm going to start right now. You ready? >> Okay I am ready. >> Okay. Um so the so the first question that we have for you today is what motivated you to apply for this board vacancy and what experiences or perspectives would would you bring that could benefit the board and the district? >> Good evening uh President Galborth, members of the board. Um thank you for the

013opportunity to meet with you to discuss the uh vacant uh district 4 school board position. I'm excited about the possibility of working with Rio Rancho public schools and and you to support um the students, the families, um the staff and the community of Rio Rancho. Um I believe my past experience as the executive director information technology for the school district uh as well as being the chief operations officer for the school district. Uh will lead me to be able to contribute and uh be of some benefit to the school district as as uh we enter into some new times for the school district and face the different different challenges that are with the the school district. RRPS um I have to admit has been a calling for me uh since uh before the school district

014was actually formed. Uh Dr. Cleveland graciously hired me as the the director of information technology uh in the months prior to the official start of the school district and I felt it to be an exciting challenge. uh we were able to set the kinds of standards we wanted for a school district. We're able to create the policies that we wanted to enforce within the school district. We were able to hire the types of staff, the professional staff as well as the support staff um to help students achieve in the classroom. We knew that we were creating something pretty much from the ground up and we wanted it to be something that uh was stellar for the students, their student achievement, the families, again, the staff as well as the entire community. And I think the

015community embraced uh Rio Rancho public schools from the very start. Uh as I said earlier, I was hired by Dr. Cleveland. and I was the executive director of information technology for about 14 and a half years. Um that was an exciting time for us. Um everything from delivering the first computers that we uh put in the back seats of of our cars to deliver to the schools uh to uh getting into the educational technology realm and getting educational technology specialists out to the classrooms. After that, uh, I was I was very honored for Dr. Cleveland to ask me to change roles and be the chief operations officer for the school district. And at that time um the chief operations officer um oversaw the finance department, the human resources department, the information technology department, the facilities

016department, the safety and security department and eventually the transportation department. So I have experience, deep experience uh and knowledge of many of the different operational administrative support functions of the district. We saw tremendous growth in the in the district and we opened up six elementary schools, three middle schools, two high schools, comprehensive high schools, two alternative high schools, the district office, and the training center. During during that time of of those first 23 years or so of of rearential public schools, we also expanded went back and expanded three elementary schools and one middle school to provide additional space for students and try to get students out of the uh portable classrooms that we have been graciously afforded by our counterpart down the hill. Um so it was a tremendous time um and tremendous growth for

017Rio Rancho public schools and I hope that by joining the school board I can help Rio Rancho public schools to continue to excel. >> Thank you. Who wants to take the next one >> real quick? We're paying attention to you. We're just also taking notes. It's not like I'm trying to ignore you. >> He's playing a game. Uh question two, what do you see as the most significant challenges or opportunities facing the district over the next four year two years and how would you how should the board help address them? >> Well, first of all, uh Rio Rancher public schools just like all school districts um faces face uh tremendous challenges. uh some of those challenges in the area of finances. Um the legislative funding, continuing to work for the legislative funding that uh the

018school districts need and sometimes that has been um lacking to a certain extent in the area of human resources, continuing to uh hire good staff. We need great teachers in our classrooms and we need to also look at the teacher shortage that all of New Mexico has. Rio Rancho has it too, especially in the area of uh special education. Those are constant uh battles for the human resource department. I believe in information technology. Um, we have a lot of technology, some wonderful technology in the district, but you have to continue to bring in that that equipment, but you also have to look at some kind of replacement cycle to make sure that you're allocating the funding to keep that technology up to standards. And we need to make sure that the technology is being used

019in the classrooms and it's being used appropriately uh in the classrooms facilities that is a a constant need for the school district. I feel sure that the facilities department um now that they're able to take a little bit of a breather from building schools, we have to make sure that we fund the the district so that you can repair and upkeep and maintain those facilities so that all of these nice new facilities that we've built over time uh do not start to lag. We need to make sure we we keep them topnotch. Security is always safety and security is always a priority. Uh we need to make sure that we have people that can help us uh make sure that schools and the students are safe and secure. Transportation um that's always been a constant

020battle. Uh I think Rio Rancho has found transportation funding to be lacking uh for the entire existence of the school district. We need more funding. We need more buses. Um, and I think the transportation department uh has the same type of of um issue that the classrooms have in terms of hiring good bus drivers and assistants on the buses. That's a that's a constant effort that they need to make in curriculum. uh we need to make sure that we have appropriate very challenging curriculum in all of the grades. And I think that one of the ways that you can have that challenging curriculum is you need to provide the proper amount of professional development time for the staff. It doesn't help if we just come up with new curriculum but don't give the staff members

021time to learn the curriculum and learn the best ways to present the curriculum. So professional development staff time I think is extremely important. the school board. Um I think the school board can help by keeping the focus on student achievement and the students in the classroom and all of those um areas that I discussed. They may not be directly in the classroom, but they affect the classroom. If we don't get the kids to school on time and don't have that friendly face at the school bus door, the kids are not starting off their day in the necessarily in the right frame of mind. If they're walking into a facility, they need to make sure that facility is clean, it's safe and secure. So all of those things combined with what the teachers and the staff

022in the classrooms and in the front offices of the schools um contribute all of it as part of a team to make sure the school functions the way it should be functioning and I think the school district can ensure wise and efficient use of funding. Keep everything focused on the classroom and student achievement. set those clear expectations from the schoolboard level. Um, and also maintain that communication that's needed between the legislature and the school district, between the community and the school district because all of it impacts on how our students fare uh every day. >> Okay. Thank you. >> Thank you. Our district has a new superintendent. What do you see as the board's role in supporting and working effectively with the superintendent while still providing appropriate oversight? >> Well, if I can, I I

023would like to tell you a story. Um, this question brought to brings to mind a story that uh back in the spring of 1994 before the school district was formed, um, my wife and I were invited to our church to help set up chairs for an interim schoolboard meeting that uh, was being held in the very early days before we were officially a school district. And it was during that time um as we were breaking down the chairs and putting the chairs away that I looked at my wife and I was getting ready to retire from the military and I thought, well, you know, they're going to need somebody to help run the the technology of the school district. And so it was at a school board meeting back in 1994 that I decided to

024start on this journey with Rear Rancho Public Schools. And I find it kind of ironic that I'm sitting here in another school board meeting uh hoping that I can continue to work with Rio Rancho Public Schools and contribute to uh what I think is one of the the best organizations I've ever seen um and uh to help our community continue to move forward. I think what I and others on the board can can help um the superintendent with is continue open communications. We can we can provide some historical context and knowledge about the school district. We can provide some knowledge and help in terms of New Mexico and Rio Rancho in particular. I think those are ways we can help the new superintendent. But we also need at the same time to understand and embrace

025the change that's coming to the school district. Um we will have a new administration coming into the school district and obviously that brings some interesting uh challenges but it brings some wonderful opportunities also. We need to embrace those opportunities. Things like continuing to develop Riot Tech, uh, which was a a longlasting, uh, desire of the school district, and it's wonderful to see that it's taken off. We need to continue to support that. We need to continue to support a number of initiatives throughout the the district. And I think the way we can do that is to um really embrace those challenges as they come. Okay, good. Thank you. >> Okay, >> check. We're at 11 minutes and a half. 11 and a half minutes. >> Do you have 11 minutes? Is that what your >>

02611? >> Okay, yours is good. Okay. Um, so board members often need to work with colleagues who have different perspectives. Can you describe how you approach uh collaboration and decision-m in a group when there are strong differences of opinions? Well, I think first of all, you have to have a willingness to listen to other opinions and and listen to other perspectives as they're raised. Um, you need to try to understand the different uh ideas, the different opinions um that are that are tossed around in terms of the discussions for the school district. In all of that, we need to make sure that students and the classroom remain the center and the focus of the attention of the school board and the school district. We need to have open and honest communications, transparency, um, no hidden

027agendas, I think, uh, is a is a major thing in developing teamwork, uh, for the school district. We need to make sure that despite the differences of opinion, the different perspectives, the discussions, we have to maintain civility as we're having our discussions u among the school district um board members. And when we're having discussions with the superintendent and and any of his staff he calls in for those discussions, I welcome deep discussions. Um, I believe that deep discussions from my time in the military, IT, the chief operations officer, those deep discussions are the ones that I think bring out the best decisions that the group can make. When you have those really heartfelt, deep discussions, my experience has been that you make some of your best decisions. >> Okay, thank you. >> School boards serve

028a diverse community with many viewpoints. How would you approach representing the whole community and keeping board discussions focused on students and district needs? I think a school board member must have open communications with the community regardless of the viewpoints of the individuals that are raising issues or questions for the school board member. You have to listen. you have to have to openly acknowledge maybe the their point of view, but it's it's important to continue the conversation. I think it's also important that we keep in mind that sometimes some of the opinions, discussions that may come to schoolboard members may be from a minority of of the community. And so we have to keep in mind the balance of what may be discussed uh the complaint or the suggestion or whatever and keep in mind the

029the totality of the community. And while this position is district 4 representing the community of district 4, as you sit as a team in the school board, your decisions will be for the entire city and the entire school district. So you have to keep in mind um what you're really there for overall. Yes. Communicate the needs of your district. make those decisions based on the entire school district. I I just want to conclude when you talk about the community having a great school district which I really truly believe Rio Rancho Public Schools is um is a cornerstone of any community. I think schools along with probably safety um are the real selling blocks for a community. And if you can really build a school district that responds to the community, provides student achievement, high levels

030of student achievement, that's when you can see economic growth, you can see young families moving in, you can see the growth of the city. And so I think that it is definitely uh one of the important things that the school board can do for a city is to make sure that uh the school board has a really good upstanding school district. >> We're out about six minutes. Can I ask a quick follow-up question related to what you said? You mentioned that there's sometimes a loud vocal minority that and you're trying to manage their needs versus like the maybe most people who are just saying just tell me where to drop my kids off. How do you put your finger on that pulse um without comprehensive rigorous door knocking? And >> I I think that's the

031difficult part of it because you will hear both pros and cons, good and bad, maybe in terms of what families are seeing with the school district. Um, you have to, as I said, look at the whole community, whether it's your seniors that may not have kids in school but are paying the taxes, the young people that have kids in schools. Um, and that's difficult when you when you're getting some of the comments. You may be hearing what the vast majority of people want want to uh say. It may be just a a minority. And so finding out the true pulse is where your open communications I think lies. Get out there and talk to people in your neighborhood. Not necessarily door knocking. Um but whether you're at your I'm I'm a Rotary member. whether you're

032at a Rotary uh club meeting or you're at some other civic function, uh try to talk so that you can understand how people feel about what's going on in the school district. Um and that's to me just about the only way you can really get the pulse of the entire group. Every opportunity you have to talk about rearrangial public schools and ask for input gives you a better chance of making the right good decision in the long run but it is a difficult challenge as you probably have seen. >> Last question you have any questions about >> um just a couple of real quick questions. Um, what training uh, professional development is offered or required for a school board member? >> Do you have an answer? >> Go ahead. You go ahead. Yes, >> you

033have it. Well, so for new board members, right, it's what, 10 hours is what you guys are having to do. And then mine's about half of that once you're not a new school board member anymore. Um, but we have there's lots of offerings um that the that New Mexico school schoolboard association gives and they're all throughout the year. So, you don't have to go to all of those. Um, there's ones that I like more, which as the one that's up in Santa Fe during the session, I think is a great one to go up to. Um, but but you just have to get those 10 hours in and usually you can do that with even just a couple of those, but we do have meetings. Um so right during the session we there's one in

034the summer that's a leadership conference. There's um we just had a regional meeting recently. Um and so there's lots of offerings but you don't necessarily have to go to each and every one. >> There are categories of of you have to kind of fill in all those categories. You can't go to which one type like budget for example. You have to go to a sweeping. So >> yeah. So you have to pick class on budget or on um >> law superintendent relations all of those. So that's that's all that new legislation that that just went through that is >> so it's nice to know that you're not going to take a newbie and throw into the >> No. No. And they do actually really good with the new school board and you know so much

035already with schools. Um you are wellversed in that but they do have a new they have specific classes for new school board members that help. So yeah, >> and just without putting anyone on the spot, what do you see as the major challenge um taking on the future? >> You guys, >> I think you highlighted a lot of the main challenges. I'm particularly uh and you sort of alluded to it. I think it's important to get um the brave new world of AI right. Um I I'm a user. I'm a computer scientist by training, but getting it right for our students is an important thing to do. Um, obviously safety. Um, I think there's I there's always more that can be done about safety or like the perimeter keeping outside threats, but I think uh

036I hear a lot of people face concerns about behavior issues within the classroom that causes safety issues there that we need to like work on tackling. Um, I'm sure everyone has a slightly different opinion, but that's my quick We are at 1 minute 30 seconds. So, you >> want to take the last minute? >> I think it's just trying to figure it out. It's all for I think three of us that's new and then trying to get in and be involved in the community. How you put it all together. You want people to know that you're on the board and you want to listen to them and have their voice. But then the flip side of that being elected, right? You don't want to be just walking through the shopping center with your family and

037have somebody come up and be like, "Hey, can I >> and it and it's hard because as a single board member, they have no authority. There's no like I have no like I can't make a decision for you or promise you anything right it has to be a team effort and whether you agree or disagree and part of it is within that team if we do have a deep discussion like you were talking about and it gets heated and three people vote yes and two people vote no the ones that voted no you have to be committed to the board to the team that no matter what when you go out in the community and like why did you vote no and why and they vote like I stand with the board the decision has

038been And now as a team, the five of us, we're moving forward with the yes. It doesn't matter why I said no or who said no, right? It's you got to have that you and everybody has to know we have each other's back. >> I'm going to bring us over by 30 seconds, but um I just I do want to add to that just I think also we have a lot of offerings of schools these days everywhere, right? There's charters, there's so many schools, and it's building our district so that we can be that option that people want, that this is where they want to be. And there's so many facets that come into that, but we need to be constantly looking for that AI. All of those things go into it, but we need

039to have good security and all of those things, but we need to be in the community where they say, you know what, like I don't want that charter school. I want to go to Rancho High School or Cleveland. And I think that it's it is a struggle though to do that. And that to me that is the biggest thing as we move ahead. So >> okay. So um >> so with with that with that we are done with our interview with you um for this evening. You're welcome to to stay around if you if you would like to and we'll have our other interviews. But we really want to thank you for coming out and putting all >> Thank you for the opportunity to sit here and have a discussion with you about the the

040future of Rio Rancho Public Schools. >> All right. >> Thank you. Thank you so much. We appreciate it. >> And I don't know if there's any on the table maybe. >> Oh, that's a good idea. That's a good idea. Thank you. Okay. So, we have a few minutes in between. >> Okay. At 510. Is that right? Okay. So, we have just a few minutes. So, board, if you want to grab water Yeah. or anything or I think we're going to put some out on the table. Yeah. I think we were I think we're in sync. Yeah. Mine was just stuck. >> Going up. Mine was going. >> I know. I was like, "What?" >> Sorry. >> No, it was good. You did great. It was good. >> I thought it was going to take I

041thought it was going to like He's going to point you to questions. >> It was good. >> Yeah, >> it was good. >> Yes. >> Yeah. You want to see? >> Her husband's right there. Go outside. No cigarette. Careful. Thank you. Change your batteries now. Thank you. >> Rebecca, if we get going on our next one, are you ready? >> I'm good. >> Okay. All right, we will start here in just a second. Getting all my paperwork together. Okay, I'll just give some introductory and then we can start it. Okay, we want to thank you for for coming out. So, this is our next interview which is um Stephanie Smith. And I'm glad you made it through traffic to be able to to make it with us today. Um we I just want to go

042through the format really quickly with you and what that looks like. Um we so we have six questions and we have 25 minutes and so each of us will just each of us who are here will ask a question. We have Rebecca Murray who is sick which you you knew from yesterday and so she's not going to give questions but she is taking her notes and doing all those things um virtually. Um so 25 minutes six questions. Our last question is going to be just and you probably have seen the questions already, but it's just an opportunity for you to ask questions um and all of those things. What am I missing in as far as letting her know right now? >> We're paying attention. We're taking >> Okay, we are we are paying attention.

043You're going to see us taking notes. So, if we're not looking directly at you. >> Yeah. So, um Michael Barry will have um he's going to be our timekeeper. So, he'll let you know just kind of how you're doing on time. And it's okay if we don't get through all the questions, but um but just so you know, you kind of have that that time. Um, with that I and I know you probably know who all of us are, but I am Amanda Galborth. So, I'm the president of the board and then >> South Vice President of the board, Michael Barry, board member. >> And then, of course, Rebecca Murray, who's our board secretary, who is who was out. Um, okay. So, with that, we're going to go ahead and start with our questions and

044we'll get our time started here. Um, I Are you started? Okay. I'm just going to start mine so it's somewhat so I can see it for myself. Um but you are will have the opportunity to um introduce yourself within this question. Okay. So feel free to be able to do that as I um as you answer this question. Um so what motivated you to apply for this board vacancy and what experiences or perspectives would you bring that could benefit the board and the district? >> Thank you. Well, first I'd like to say thank you for considering my application and for um affording me this opportunity. I really appreciate it. Um, also thank you for all moving down there. It makes it a lot easier instead of going like that. Um, so, uh, first of all,

045I I care deeply about the decisions that are made for our school district. Um, not only as an educator, uh, I've been in education pretty much my whole life. Um, been exposed to, you know, preK through middle school through high school and I, you know, even in, uh, higher ed, right? I teach graduate courses as well. Um uh and then across the subjects and also um across the country. So I I I've worked in other states um and I have that perspective. Um but yeah, not only as an educator but also the personal connections I have with the district. Um I moved here in 96. I went to Lincoln. Uh I attended Rio Rancho High School. Um, from there I moved back to Pennsylvania, got my, uh, undergrad, uh, started teaching, and then when I

046came back, um, my kids went through the school system here. And so, um, I have two who graduated the same year. I have one in high school right now, one in elementary. And so um the decisions that are made by the board you know it it it impacts me personally um because of my passion but also because of my family my friends and the community. So that that's my motivation. Now my perspectives uh I really feel that I could bring a a fresh perspective to the board with a wealth of information and experience. Um one thing you know the everybody's um all the candidates information is is public right we can look at that and one thing that I noticed that sets me apart from some of the other candidates is that I am current

047I am currently in the classroom uh I am working with students oneonone I'm communicating with parents um I'm instructing courses for teachers who are going back for their masters ers. Um, and so with that, again, I'm current in the best practices, um, the educational trends, special ed law. Uh, anybody who's been in education could, you know, attest to, you know, someone who's teaching two years ago compared to now, how different things have changed and how paths have um, have split. I mean, even with, you know, our math curriculum changing here shortly. Um so yeah I never worked in the district office. I've always worked um you know at the level uh of the school in the schools. Um but I have worked with the large majority of the community whether it be educating our children

048uh keeping our parents informed um and then um also collaborating with students staff administration uh you name it. Um on top of that um I earned my PhD last year uh for special education and with that you know between the coursework and the dissertation and the research um it it really gave me the expertise in educational research and analysis um I'm well verssed in quantitative and qualitative um data analysis which can definitely uh help when we're being presented with um proposals. Um, and then, you know, as far as budgeting, I know that's a big thing. Uh, I am a math teacher. That should help, right? Um, and then, you know, as some side perspectives, uh, my husband, he's a general manager of an HVAC company. And so, although I don't have that firsthand perspective, I

049definitely hear it when he comes home. And so I can definitely attest to um you know with the new uh Riotech opening and and that that path um and um also I had mentioned earlier both I had two children who graduated the same year. My son is an apprentice for an HVAC uh to be an HVAC and then my daughter is at NMSU studying for premed. And so, man, if if Riot Tech was there when he was in high school, he would have had, you know, a leg up. But unfortunately, he's starting at ground zero. Um, but as a parent, I I I have that perspective of both pathways. Um, so yeah. And then, uh, last thing, um, working in both, um, Pennsylvania and in here, um, I've been exposed to, uh, students and families

050of all backgrounds. And so I I really feel like I'm I I I could make connections with with all of with all of them. >> Okay. Thank you. >> What do you see as the most significant challenges or opportunities facing the district over the next few years and how should the board help address them? >> Well, uh, Rio Rancho is ahead of the game in many aspects of New Mexico. I'm sure you're all aware of that. Um uh however, we also now have the opportunity to hear perspectives from um people outside of the state such as Dr. Dodd. Um he I'm sure he's going to bring a wealth of information about some successes and maybe some things that don't work um in other states. And you know, it's it's it's it's only going to help

051us, right? More information the better. Um, and then you know even myself when I moved here in um 2018 and I started at Rio Rancho High School um there was a lot that I brought with me from Pennsylvania that I I wasn't seeing in the classroom and and so I implemented that and and I had a lot of success rates. Um and so I think that's a great opportunity going back to just having Dr. Dot as our new superintendent with um his experience. Um, some other things, uh, the CTE pathway, right? We, we again are ahead of the game for the state of New Mexico. Not many districts, um, have their own school dedicated to that. Um, and so, as a board member, you know, I feel it's um, the board's duty to support those

052existing partnerships that we have right now. um and also network uh to build new relationships. The school that I'm at right now, we have a really tiny CD program. Um very very tiny um like three people tiny. But at every chance I get when I talk to somebody, if I see the opportunity is there to talk to them about our students and if if there's any apprenticeships or internships, I take advantage of that opportunity. Um so again as board members just networking what we have here to offer. Um and then lastly for the for the Riotech for the CTE path um you know we I I feel like we have an opportunity to research and analyze what's going on in the school, what what's succeeding um and what is being proposed to us that could

053strengthen the program even more. Um, another opportunity, some may see it as a challenge. I, you know, I have a background in special ed, so I actually see this as a great opportunity, but the development of um the OS Office of Special Education at state level. Um, again, we have a great reputation um behind us with special education compliance. Uh, we want to keep it that way, right? And so with the OSE, I'm sure we're going to have a lot of um uh more policies, more systems in place that we need to comply with. Um and so as a board or as a potential board member um ensuring that our district continues to remain in compliance um be accountable um ensure that we have the systems in place that um address all the components of

054you know Yazy Martinez IDEIDA um and any other like local state or even national mandates um you know with office of special education when I think of that you know I Don't just think of students with an IEP. Um whether it be a student who has substantial needs or a twice exceptional learner. Um the board has a duty to serve each end of that spectrum and every every child in between. Um and so I just think that's going to be an opportunity to to take advantage of that. Um and then lastly, uh a challenge perhaps is just making sure um the board prioritizes uh long-term strategies. You know, what's going to happen next week, next month, next year, 5 years, 10 years. It's really important that um there's a stable plan in place. >> Um

055>> Thank you. Our district has a new superintendent. What do you see as the board's role in supporting and working effectively with the superintendent while still providing appropriate oversight? >> Yeah. Well, Rio Rancho is unique. It's unique in that we've had Dr. Cleveland um since the beginning. She is the foundation of our district, right? And so with her retirement, um Rio Ranch is in uncharted territory. We've never been in this situation, right? And so, um, although it's new to us, I've seen I've worked in districts where superintendants, um, they rotated like revolving doors and it's not good for the district. We don't want that. Um, and so there's really some specific components that I've taken away from working in both types of districts, one with the stable and one without. Um, that really help. And,

056um, so first and foremost, we as a board and we as a community, we really must recognize the magnitude of his position and the shoes he has to fill. I'm sure he understands that. and it it's it's our duty to really support him and give him that confidence. Um and then another thing is trust. Um as board members, you all had a um strong vetting process, I assume, when deciding who your next um who our next superintendent was. And so I think we just need to continue to trust that decision, but then also trust in him that that he's going to do what's best for our community. I mean, he he came all the way across the country, right? And you got to have some trust in that. Um, and then, you know, keeping an

057open line of communication. Um, our district is different than what he's used to, and so making sure we talk to him about what our district's needs are. uh what our expectations are, what our wishes are, um maybe some of our past successes, some of the past things that challenged us, and even if we have disagreements, it's very important to keep that open communication. Um because once that's closed, um it's hard to get that back, right? Um, and then lastly, as a board, a board member, you know, just continue to provide support, oversight, um, keep that collaborative mentality. Uh, just remember, we all share the same goal, and that's to serve the people of our community and especially our students. >> Thank you. >> You don't want to follow up, right? We're good. >> No. >>

058Okay. >> We're at 12 minutes, by the way. Counting down. 12 minutes. >> Okay. Um, board members often need to work with colleagues who have different perspectives. Can you describe how you approach collaboration and decision-making in a group when there are strong differences of opinions? >> Well, um, anybody who knows me can attest to my ability to collaborate effectively. Um, I'm really kind of known as a peacemaker. I have a very calm demeanor. Um, I'm patient. It's probably why I enjoyed um teaching 10 years in a self-contained emotional support classroom. I I like it. I I I like um cohesive um behaviors. And so, um, I would come to the table with an an open mindset, you know, um, viewing things with an unbiased lens, understanding that I'm not right all the time and that,

059um, just like all the members of our community, all the members of the board, we come here with different experiences and, um, different backgrounds. And so each of those experiences can help um create or support a decision that needs to be made. Um I am a great listener, but I also know how to advocate effectively. And um so you know, at the end of the day to me, it's not important who came up with the idea or whose idea wins or or whose um solution was approved. What's important to me is what's the best interests of our students, um, the schools, community, and everyone in between. >> All right. School boards serve a diverse community with many viewpoints. How would you approach representing the whole community and keeping board discussions focused on students and district

060needs? Rio Rancho um is a very diverse community. If you drive down Southern and then you drive down 550, you're going to see totally different things, right? Um and so with diversity, you know, it gives us the opportunity to to find to to learn from each other and to find the strengths um and what works in each in each I guess section of our community. Um, speaking about sections, although this vacancy is for district 4, um, I recognize that if on the school board I'm re representing the entire school district, um, you know, the the districting I I feel like it's just a formality, right? Um, and so coming to the board um, with everybody's diverse needs in mind is is very important. Um, it's important to stay connected. It's important to listen to others

061outside of the board meetings, hearing what their input is. Um, it's important to immerse ourselves in the community, attend school events. My daughter, she was um part of the the Crimson Dinner and actually I remember seeing you there and I was like, "Oh my goodness, she took time out of her day." I was a parent and I was so proud that you came to my daughter's um, you know, awards ceremony. And so as as community members and and parents, it means something to see board members out in the public. Um, and it it kind of just shows that we truly care. Um, and so yeah, just stay grounded, stay focused, um, and remember that we have that shared goal to improve our community um, and the betterment for all of our members, whether it be

062um, District 4, District 5, District 1. Thank you. Any there are follow-ups? Uh we're about 80 minutes, so plenty of time. Do you have any questions for the board? >> Uh yes. So originally I was going to ask um which of my qualifications you felt might be the biggest strength for this role. Um but then I was driving home from work and you know my mind was going like this. So I'm just going to keep it simple. Um, are there any is there anything about my background or experience um that you'd like me to elaborate on further or anything that you feel I did not bring to the table that I would need for the role of a board member because I might have left something out and so I'd like that um opportunity to

063respond. >> I I have a quick qu I have a question. Are you you're currently working with a charter school? Is that correct? I am. Yes. >> Do you feel like that would be any sort of conflict or anything like that with >> No. Um, actually the opposite. I working at a charter school, it's a very small I work uh very one-on-one with students. And so I've actually learned a lot from there that I could bring here. And things that I learned there that I wish I knew when I worked uh at Rio Rancho High School. Um, as far as time, uh, it's a 4-day week, Tuesday through Friday. Um, and um, actually the principal knows I'm here right now interviewing with you guys. And so they're very lenient. They're understanding and yeah, they I

064you know, I feel like they could attest to my character and I I I would assume that they would want me on a board like this to to help the community. So, >> okay. Thank you. I don't know if you guys have any more for that. No, I mean you you mentioned an original question that you didn't want to ask, but you I'm answering it anyway. Um if you'll allow me. Um I thought it was valuable that you um you know have an maybe an academic approach to or or having done the schooling for education. I think that's a valuable thing. Um we uh schooling is very valued here in New Mexico as in Rio Rancho particularly, but New Mexico broadly. So I think there's um I thought that was a a fantastic thing. Um,

065yeah, that wasn't for me. >> Good. >> You had asked, but I was wondering. >> Yeah. Okay. >> I would be interested to hear if you could briefly say something about what you did for your dissertation. >> Uh, yes, I did. Um, it was a qualitative study. Um, and it was the interpretation of um, non-compulsory alternative school teachers um, re-engaging disenfranchised youth with disabilities. That's a mouthful. >> Yeah. >> Um, and uh, it's it was eye opening the results. Um, it's taught me a lot. Um it's and it's really really taught me some skills that um that I'm going to take with me for the rest of my life and um yeah, I'm I'm proud of it and I'm proud of the results and I'm proud of the people who participate in that study. So

066>> that sounds awesome. You should have put it in your application. >> I read Robbie's I'm happy to read it. It >> is um >> Just kidding. I'm just kidding. I'm just kidding. >> Is published so you know if you want to Google it. I'm sure you find it. It's It's about over 200 pages though. >> Yes, they're they're terrible. Any other questions you have? >> Um, no. I'm, you know, that's I I'm nervous, but you know, after sitting here and talking to you guys, it really felt comforting and um again, I just really would love to serve um the community. >> Well, a teacher shared with a student and a student shared with Dr. D. If you're not nervous, you don't care. >> That's true. >> So that's >> good. >> Okay. >> Right.

067Kevin put that in the paper. So kudos to Kevin. >> Well, and if you don't have any further questions or anything else that anything else that you want to bring up? >> No. >> Okay. You guys, >> thank you so much. Appreciate you. Thank you. We appreciate you coming in and taking the time and yesterday for yesterday, too. So, thank you. See, Kevin, we do read your articles. >> Yeah. Now, at this point, I mean, it's not going to give you any advantage or anything, so you're welcome to just be in here if you would like to. So, that's fine. All right. Thank you. And let's see. >> I saw that, too. Yeah. >> So, our next one, we have just a few minutes if you guys need to to step away for a second.

068Um, but any questions or comments on we're still, you know, miked and all the things. So, >> okay. >> Oh, I think are are we going to start early if he's here and ready to go? >> Um, I think we could do that. We can go and check there. He's supposed to be here in the next few minutes, so we can go check and I'll Can you tell us what the data summits are afterwards? Lauren Hatch. >> Yeah. What are they? I may maybe explain it. I didn't hear it. >> Are you gathering data or are you >> out? >> And so this meeting would be just to >> Hello. >> Hi. I'm Kevin with the rear ranch observer. >> So I'll let you know. also an observer when they did the the little synopsis

069said I was deputy secretary of public ed. That's not true. >> Deputy secretary of higher ed. >> Completely different department. >> Okay. Um the >> it's no big deal. I'm just >> Okay. Okay. Well, I wrote it. >> Yeah. Just it's higher ed, not public. >> Okay. I'll find it. Yeah. >> That's what I'm saying. >> Thank you. My allergies have flared up a little bit. >> I was sick about three weeks ago, but I still have a cough from it. It's just how it's just what happens. So, I have a pile of cough drops up here on my >> on my desk. So, I'm gonna put that in. >> Okay. Um, so before we start your time, I'm just going to give a little introduction of how it's going to look and and and

070of us as well, just really quickly. Um, and then we'll start the time here in just a second. So, with that, um, we we're doing 25m minute interviews. Um, we have we have six questions. Um, we've been able to get through through all of them. Um, but if we don't get through all of them, then we'll just stop the time at the at the 25 minutes. Um, what else? We're going to go through. So, with those six questions, just each of us will um will ask a question and we'll just each take one. So, you see here there's three of us, but there's actually one more in the heavens. Am I pointing her voice comes from the heavens? Um, is our board secretary, um, Rebecca Murray, who's out sick. She's just she came. It was

071the worst week but it is what happens and and she became sick. So she is here and she is taking notes just so you know but just um in the heavens and um so with that I'm um the board president Amanda Galbreth and I'll let you each introduce yourself. >> South I'm the board vice president >> board member Michael Barry. >> Okay. Is there anything that I'm forgetting to tell him that I >> uh we'll just reserve the right to ask clarifying questions about the things you ask, but we'll make sure we're respectful of your time so we won't try to bury you. >> And we are I will give a few little moments of saying what our timeline is so you can help pace yourself. >> Okay, sound good. Okay, so with that, I'll

072go ahead and go into the first question. And with this question, you will have the opportunity, you feel free to introduce yourself in this first question. Okay. Um, so our first question is, what motivated you to apply for this board vacancy and what experiences or perspectives would you bring that could benefit the board and the district? >> Well, my name is Glenn Walters. I've been a resident of Rio Rancho for since uh 96, so quite a few years. I actually moved over here as I think I uh said in the letter of interest that I came over here with new two new schools with when Eagle Ridge was opening and the old Questa before it moved to the other my younger son was starting kindergarten and my older son was starting middle school. So it's

073a great time for in my family to make that move. Uh the both of them are successful college graduates that went through the Rio Rancho school system. So I'm very pleased with that. And that's just enough about me. you already have a lot of my background or whatever, probably more so than you ever needed. Um, but there's a lot of things I left out, so we'll see if I mention any of those. But why why did I do this? So, first of all, uh, when this position was open a couple years ago, I was asked to actually run for it. And, um, I thought about it and then I found out that Beth was going to do it. Beth was a good friend of mine and I said, you know what, that is ecstatic. Beth,

074why don't you do this and I will endorse you, which is what I did. and and if it turns out that I would uh fulfill her term, I would do that in her honor as well. Um, but some of the other reasons are uh I care I deeply care about the students, the parents, the staff, and and the community. Um, public schools matter. I grew up going to public school. My my mother was the president of the PTA in my school. So, you know, I care about these things. Um, and I think it's a very interesting time in the history of Reacher Public Schools with the longtime service of Dr. Cleveland and now Dr. Dud, you know, coming in as superintendent. I think it's it's an interesting time and we've already have this great legacy

075and I think we have a very bright future as well. I'm not sure uh whether I was going to apply at first or not, but I thought about it and I had no idea who would apply and so I felt that I had some obligation to do so. I was ecstatic when I found out that there was eight applications, some great folks. So, you're not g you're going to pick a winner regardless of whoever that is. But what really convinced me to do so was I saw a statement from Dr. Cleveland saying that there was a shortfall in the instructional materials for for math of 1.5 million and for science for two million on the six-year adoption of instructional materials. I think I can assist in obtaining that money. That's one of the reasons and

076because of that I feel compelled to be able to to do so. So what experiences do I bring? You saw the things that I have in my in my background. I mean I was did all kinds of things with Rio Rancho public schools both as a parent volunteer. Uh I became the management consultant. I did most of the strategic plans uh for many years. I did all the retreats. I did actually all of the leadership meetings. I've facilitated those. Um all of those kinds of things for for many years. Um as far as the community, I served as a county commissioner for Shaw County for eight years. So I know this community very well. Um I did a lot of things in the public education side where I was appointed to do lots of different

077things that shows up in in the document I sent you. Um, also, um, I was asked by the governor to, uh, be the deputy secretary for higher ed, higher ed department. So, I bring all of that background as well of what going in in higher ed. I know most of the key players in higher ed, both at the department as well as pretty much across the board. and legislative. You can see that I have a lot of experience in legislative, including being the senior analyst for House Education Committee for many years, also serving as the chief of policy for the House of Representatives and serving as the chief of staff for the speaker of the house, looking at different things like that. I know the legislative process very very well and assist in doing that.

078In fact, I'll give an example I think a little a little later um on that, you know. So for example um as I said I know personally a lot of the legislators uh I think you do as well including some who were formerly sitting in your seats. Uh so the LEC which is the interim committee has 30 members 10 voting members and 20 advisory members know many of those uh uh senate education has nine members. House Education, the 13 members. Those are the ones that influence policy. And I think I'll go give you an example a little bit later of of how the board can interact with policy at that level to make a difference and that will benefit uh student outcomes and and the community and the district itself. So, um, you know, my

079background, as I said, I think I've helped shape some of the district in the past, not not necessarily in the last couple years, but in the the past, but that's behind us, and we need to move forward with what we're doing. We can learn a few things from the past, but it's really we got a whole brand new board except for for you, Madam President. You know, we got brand new people, and I think that that's a that's a a very interesting way to look at things as we move forward in the future with a new superintendent as well. uh and new ideas. So I will focus on several different things. My main focus is systematic processes in place. If we don't have systematic processes and every time we do something, it's an ad hoc

080and we can't learn from anything. So I you know I look at the 100 day plan and I see many things that are leaning towards having systematic processes in place and I think as a school board that's what we need to make sure that we have a systematic process and policies that would support that and so I would just tell you I'm about service. I think you can see that from my background and I'll leave it there with that's enough for the first question. >> Thank you. >> Probably more than you need. >> No, it's good. Thank you. What do you see as the most significant challenges or opportunities facing the district over the next few years and how should the board help address them? I >> I think there's several challenges. Uh one of

081them obviously always is going to be the case is student proficiency growth. So what's happening in that arena? The good news is, and I guess this is part of the opportunity that goes along with that, is the 100 day plan that the uh superintendent has pointed out, is addressing a lot of that that that student proficiency growth and what we could do about it. And so I think that that's got to be constant for the board is looking at what that proficiency level is and are we providing the resources in order to make those gains or whatever we're trying to do whether it's in the classroom, whether it's with staff, whether it's opportunities for students, etc. We need to make sure that we're allowing that those resources to provide those opportunities to do so. I

082think the next thing is probably unfunded mandates. You know, we hear that term all the time, but that happens. you have unfunded mandates, but the legislature or some other federal, state, whatever is imposing things upon us. It might be our time. It might be resources. It might be other things. And we need to be able to be aware of those things. And how do we go about dealing with those? Who do we talk to to be able to deal with those those issues? Um, another one is the continued realtor growth. I can remember when we were having to to build a new school every year for a while. that's slowed down a little bit, but the growth is going to be on us. It's going to continue to face us with new schools, which means

083new capital outlay, and we have to have the the ability to request those whether it's in the geo bond or whatever to be able to provide those resources there. Maybe it's public school facility authority, etc. where we get those. And I can remember the battles we've had with public school facilitator. You you folks may not know this, but for example, when we built Cleveland High School, they said, "No, you can't have another auditorium. You already have an an auditorium. You can't have another stadium. You can't have another football field. You already have one." So we fought with Bob Murell for years or months at least to make sure and they had they changed the policy of the public of schools facility authority to allow Cleveland high school to have a football stadium and to have

084a a performing arts center because that's not what's in the standards for the public school facility authority. So we need to be aware of those things. The last challenge and it also at the same time is an opportunity got to be artificial intelligence. I mean that clearly is already impacting education. It's affecting what happens in the classroom. It's happen with with it affects teachers. It affects students. It affects our daily life. It affects all of our operations in the back staff of the district of what we're doing and how we're doing it. And I think that like I said it is a challenge but it's also an opportunity that we need to seize and be well aware of it. Some other opportunities was about student engagement. Um and and there I think when you when

085students are engaged their proficiency level is immediately enhanced. If students are not engaged then learning often doesn't occur. And I I've been fortunate enough to be able to take uh principles and school districts including ones from here to different places like Jinx uh school in Oklahoma. And they were they the engagement strategies they were using for students is nationwide was was the example. What do we do? How do we measure student engagement? That's a that's a critical piece of the learning process. If students aren't engaged, they aren't learning. That it's just a fact. Um and and and I think positive behaviors is what we're looking at in the classroom because not only does learning occur, but all your disciplinary issues, all of those kinds of things are very much minimized because of that. Another uh

086opportunity is the geo bonds. As we're looking at geo bonds, what are we doing about that? What are the what are the resources we need? I, you know, I'm very happy to say the last one, which it was, uh, $80 million, passed at a 76% rate. The community loves the school district. There's very few that get that kind of a support from the community. 76% asking for $80 million. So, how do we continue that pathway to provide the things that are needed, but in a positive way where we're looking for stuff? Um, and then I think the other clearly opportunity is exactly the two of you plus the person that's in the clouds and a new superintendent that might probably behind me is that that is a that is a huge opportunity and I'm not

087excluding the the board president by the way in that but but I think the idea of having new new thoughts to look at this and look at the district in the future is an incredible opportunity. for for positive growth and student achievement etc. So um how would I address those? I think you get in front of them early. I I mentioned um the idea about the instructional materials. So if you understand the legislative process, the way it works is you have a interim period and so the LESA the legislative education study committee is going to be meeting over the period and they're working their work plans right now. They'll present those to legislative council next month. It'll be approved for May and June. So last year they had 23 items that were on the work

088plan. Instructional materials was not one of them. There are some things that were important to Rear Rancho public schools, but I think we need the board needs to get in front of that now and ensure that on the work plan for the 26 LEC that instructional materials is one. So getting folks like Representative Ray Lada down in Los Cruus, that's he does instructional materials could be a champion for this or maybe one of the folks that used to sit in your seats, Senator Craig Grant who sits on the LC. We need we need champions on the LEC to put the items on the work plan uh that's being created that's going to be approved by legislative council later next month. But if if the things that we that are the board thinks are important are

089on that work plan, they're going to be talked about. You can't wait to the legislative session. They've come in January to start moving the ideas. They need to happen during the interim. And I believe that if we if the board decides to move forward, talks to the people, we can get the board can get that on the u on the agenda on the LEC agenda on the work plan. And I and I think that's the way you tackle instructional materials is you put it in front of legislators that care and I think the funding will flow from that. So, that's uh probably enough that I could say on that question. I don't want to get too longwinded here. I'm probably already talking too much. >> You're It's fantastic. We're at 11 and a half minutes

090to go, by the way. So, >> okay, I I'll speed it up a little bit. >> Uh, no worries. Our district has a new superintendent. What do you see as the board's role in supporting and working effectively with the superintendent while still providing appropriate oversight? Well, the first thing is the board needs to be aware of what are the duties in New Mexico statutes 2245. And I believe there's 15 duties that are in there that boards are supposed to do in they're in New Mexico state statutes. You know, those are things like hiring a superintendent, paying paying a superintendent, um uh creating a budget, um doing bonds. The other thing is policies. And that's probably the key, one of the key things of a board on an ongoing basis is the creating of policies. And

091I already mentioned having systems and processes in place is part of that policy part. Um I think the 100 day plan is very insightful. There's many different things. I think it's creates clear expectations that are stated. I think it ensures or it starts the groundwork to ensure that systems and processes are in place and I'm very much encouraged by that. And uh I think the idea of of you know the strategic plan that's in place now that ends 25 is it moves forward to look at the strategic plan to work together with the superintendent to create the strategic direction as well as the goals of what's important and the priorities to the board as well as the priorities to the superintendent are are met. >> Okay, good. Thank you. >> I'm trying to move forward

092a little bit faster. >> Good. You got on there. That was good. Um, board members often need to work with colleagues who have different perspectives. Can you describe how you approach collaboration and decision-making in a group when there are strong differences of opinion? >> Well, I've served on lots of different boards, whether there have been international boards or local boards or statewide boards, national boards, whatever. And the key is always mutual respect for each other. That's number one. Listening is number two. And factbased decision making is number three. If you have if you have mutual respect and you listen to each other and you use facts to make decisions everything else becomes easy I think. So along with that this is a school system. So being student centered is it critically important in the things

093that the board does also keeping the staff in mind the parents and the community and yes we the board can have different perspectives but different perspectives bring strength it's a strength when we you know patent general patent said you know if everybody's thinking the same thing nobody's thinking and I think that that's a true statement and so I think that we need to have diverse opinions that when we talk about them if we use the idea of mutual respect and listening to each other. I think we can come to common ground in most cases. That's at least my my thought that I've always lived by. I live by the Air Force values. I spent 30 years active in the Air Force and the values are pretty clear. Integrity first, service, service before self, and excellence

094in all we do. And and if you have those core values, it's pretty easy to do everything else. That's kind of the way that I look at it. I don't believe in grandstanding. Um, I think some of you might know some of my history, whatever, but I I make things happen, but I but I do it collectively. I do it as a team. I'm I I'm I'm a team player. I'm not a lone ranger. I make sure that if we speak, we speak with one voice. Those kinds of things. The other thing that I would say is I'll come prepared for every meeting. I read everything. If there's a meeting, I know what we're going to be talking about. I I know uh that we'll be trying to come up with consensus on what we're

095trying to achieve and always begin with the end in mind. What are we trying to achieve? And so make sure that we hear everybody's thoughts as we move forward. The other thing that I think I would bring I will bring humor. I'll say stupid things like um my job. >> I was gonna say not my job. Well, I won't try to take your place, but I'll say stupid things like, "Did you hear about the yard stick company that's not making them any longer?" Or or um um do you know that nothing tops a plain pizza? I mean, I'll say stupid stuff like that all the time, but I think that's part of the board part of this how people get along with each other. Um I was a keynote speaker around the world for many

096years. I didn't put that in my in in the speech that I did pretty much all over I think almost every continent except one was fun in the workplace. So, do you enjoy what you're doing and how you're doing it? And I'm going to I'm a very positive person and um I'll try to bring that. >> Thank you. >> School boards serve a diverse community with many viewpoints. How would you approach representing the whole community and keeping board discussions focused on student and district needs? >> Well, some of those things I probably already kind of addressed, but I think listening, listening is a key skill for everything that we do. If we already have our mind made up before we hear from like students and parents and staff and the superintendent and um you know,

097right now he's got my back, I should say. So yeah, mother. So anyway, um I just think we need to make sure that that we we're listening, we listen to the community and that when we talk, we talk with one voice. We don't we don't talk with individual. Like I said, I don't believe in being a lone ranger. I believe that that we that the board acts collectively together. And maybe we have some disagreements, but when we speak publicly, we the board speaks as one voice because the community is looking for us for a positive future for the community, for their kids if they got kids in school or whatever. And I think that we have to portray that very positive image of what, you know, what's going to happen and how things are going,

098etc. you know, um I think other things about that is having very clear agendas that are published to the to the community so they know what's going to be talked about and that we are that the board members are prepared to talk about what's on the agenda, to listen to those things, to act in a very collaborative manner with each other, to have values that we're we're looking forward um and that we're embracing um to have strategic themes and goals. I I know that that's currently in the plan that we have. I mean, we have the mission and values. We have all of that stuff in the past and um you know, I don't want to just keep going on and on. I think that you know, if I look at my background here that

099I gave you, there's like I said a lot more that I could tell you about and whatever and a lot of things I didn't include. And I will mention a couple quick things. Uh, you know, in my Air Force career, I spent the first year, eight years on the enlisted side in law enforcement and enjoyed every minute of it. I ended up getting a commission and I found out six months later I was commanding a unit of 1300 people. Big change in a few months there, you know, whatever. Um, you know, I retired as lieutenant colonel. I spent 10 years in the inspector general business. I know a little bit about that kind of background as well of what it takes to make things successful and what that's why I'm so much in have an

100emphasis on systems and processes because where where faults usually happen is when there's no system in place or the processes are not followed and that's how you that's how get involved in lots of different things when there are no systems or processes involved or they're not following them. Um, you know, I could mention all kinds of other things. You know, I one of the things I didn't mention, um, and I forgot to mention it, it's an opportunity is the CTE. CTE is a huge opportunity. It's a groundbreaker and I'm glad that I have some time because I forgot to mention it. You might also notice that my undergraduate degree is occupational education. Do you know what that is? CTE. 58 long time ago, but that's what that's that's was my background in education is CTE

101and and I think that that's that's an important piece of this. Um, so I think even as we're looking at things, I think we're already a role model in that. I think when I was talking earlier about student engagement, what a great opportunity. But look at some of the things we have the independent high school all the different different factors where everybody's every student is not going to be successful in every environment. So how do we create environments that we can afford and provide the resources to make it happen? And and again for the superintendent piece I would just say we need to support the superintendent. We should not micromanage that that person, but we need to make sure that we that the board provides the resources to make sure that what is trying to

102achieve is achieved and listen to the community, staff, parents, and I give you back my rest of my time. >> We had two minutes. I wanted to say, do you have any questions you want to ask? >> Our last question. Do you have any questions you want to ask us? You have two minutes to >> uh I'd like to hear one of your jokes, Michael. >> Oh, I don't have jokes. He has the jokes. I just come late to things. So, >> I'm not surprised. >> Yeah, >> I know Seth in his background. Whatever. Obviously, >> you know why cows cows wear bells? >> Why do cows wear bells? >> Their horns don't work. I'm glad we're not normally sitting next to each other. I'm just kidding. Just kidding. >> It was a pleasure. And

103again, >> thank you. >> You've got some great candidates. Whoever you select, I'm sure will be the right person. Um, I'm here to support every way I can, but there are certain things I think with my background that I think I can add to to all of you that you know the different facets and things whether it's county government. By the way, I can remember a couple things as a county commissioner. We had an incident on the buses the first day of school on here. So, what did I somebody told me I provided cameras uh the funding for cameras the next day. Intel. Intel, if you're not familiar with it, if they don't fill the slots with local people every year, there's a a keep that goes to the schools. They tried to change the

104percentage a few years when I was commun uh the county commissioner and reduce the amount for Rio Rancho and I said that ain't going to happen. >> Okay. >> Thank you. Thank you. We appreciate you coming. We really appreciate you coming. Um we're going to talk here for just a second. You're welcome to to stay. We will deliberate tonight. We're probably going to do a recess here in just a second after I give some um instruction to the board. But thank you for coming out. We appreciate >> What did you say? >> I said you're welcome to stay. We're >> so we're going to talk it over tonight and try We're hoping to make a decision tonight. Um so it's up to you're welcome. You're welcome to be here. We're going to be in a

105live session. We will probably recess just to take a moment. Um so it'll be a little bit >> Yeah. >> You're the last one. You're the last one. You're it. So, and we do need to get some things from Rebecca, but thank you. Thank you. So, we'll let you go ahead. >> Thank you so much. >> And leave the hot seat. >> Yeah. Take your water and and all those things. Um >> make sure whoever we select is available Monday. >> Yes, we do. >> Yeah. >> Bible. >> Um >> this is what I'm thinking. So, I know we all have numbers on our thing. I'm gonna skew it because I don't didn't really rank all my questions and things like that. What I am thinking and Rebecca, you're welcome to chime in and I'll

106give you a second if you want to. Um is I what I my thought is that we take 10 to 15 minutes just to take a moment and to look over our own notes. Um we cannot talk in that time period about anything that has to do with this decision. Um, but we can kind of, you know, go get some water and um and just kind of sit with our notes for a few minutes if you guys are all good with that. If you want, we can tally up our things, but I I will mess it up because I stopped telling >> I did, too. Yes. >> So, >> I'll make some tallies just for the for fun. >> Yeah. And I can and I can do that, too. What I would like is as

107we um take this this short break and kind of gather our thoughts and then come back and talk about it is um if you could look at each candidate and think about their strengths and what they would bring at this time to to those things and I think everyone brought up very similar things is we are in a unique time. We have a new superintendent. Um we have one veteran board member. Um and work a lot of work to do as you guys have now realized there's a lot that happens. Um and and we're going into a pretty crazy time of the year with graduations. And so my ask I guess is is and I think when we come back we can kind of talk about some of those strengths and what we see from

108each of those but is to to think about like what are those strengths that they could bring to that unique time that we're in uh right now. So, any other thoughts? Are you guys okay with that? Would you like me to I can go and tally all my things and send them if you want or we can kind of just go into it with some of those with >> I think that sounds great. >> Okay, Seth, any other thoughts on that? Rebecca, do you have any offerings for us from the skies? >> Um, I don't think so. I did my tally, but if you all three are not doing that, I prefer not to submit my tallies, but that's fine. I'm I'm fine with giving discussion. I mean, we have three amazing applicants, so it's

109going to be a tough one. >> I'm sure you all can agree. >> I know. I I Yeah, I'm >> question for you, sir. So, this is a public meeting. Are these public record? Do we need to get the ones from Rebecca because they have to go into some sort of storage record keeping >> or if you're going to keep them, I need white out for a couple. Okay. >> Um, does that answer your question? >> Yeah. I was just curious >> and you are welcome and I might even, you know, >> I know in a regular meeting you don't keep our notes that we take, but I just didn't know that with this process if we needed to make sure we turned them in and have them for recordeping. >> Yeah. I mean, that's

110what we did in the past with our >> What did Lauren say? >> So, we'll be keeping. So these what you wrote we're going to you will those will come back to the district office. Um so make sure that you're able to to give us those notes that you've written if that's okay Rebecca. >> Yeah I could bring them in Monday. I should be back Monday so that's fine. That's not a problem. >> Okay. So we'll keep all those things >> whether has one more. >> Okay. >> Yeah. Mine is numerous misspellings um and all of those things you know because that's how I am but >> I was very sloppy. we don't foyer it because >> I know Dr. Barry. >> Um, so with that is is do you would you rather do 10

111minutes, 15 minutes? How much time do you feel like >> it's fine for me? I >> I need more than five. So I'll if if you would Okay. So let's go for for 10 minutes. We'll do a 10-minute recess. Um Jason, you want to keep a time for that? And then once again, please remember um I have my stopwatch going. So now you're hearing beeps. Sorry, I'm just going to stop pushing the buttons. Um, so Jaci will start that when we when we go into recess in just in just a moment. So, um, and remember, yeah, don't talk about anything that has to do with this. Okay. You can say hi and how was the weather. That's totally fine. So, okay, we're going to recess tomorrow. Thank you. I have question. I think I got

112the questions >> because on the board agenda When you click on the link to the question that it says somebody needs to unlock it. >> They were question. >> Yeah, it'll be the same question as the one that was the formatting. You just put them in a prettier. >> So use that one. Thank you. Oh my god. >> Going to put a file a file in a picture for now. address. >> Yeah, for sure. Rebecca, are you back in your spot? >> I'm here. >> Yeah, I'm good. >> You're still live. Go ahead. >> Okay, you're still live. Okay, we like to bring our meeting back to order now. Um, and so now we're on item number two of our business. Um, to deliberate on applicants for appointment. And I don't have a specific way

113to go through this other than, you know, like I was saying, I I I wanted to kind of look at the strengths of each of those and kind of think of where the district is um with where we are. Does everyone already have someone like in mind? Um, that's you guys seemed pretty comfortable with with where you are. >> I'll just mention I'll just say a few things. every single candidate I was I had excitement about having a potential to work with them. I thought and I I'll just offer I was worried about um and sometimes you can't tell this. I well that's the prerogative of voters to bring on someone who has a I'll just say a chip on their shoulder. I didn't want to willfully bring anybody on with that. And there was

114no indication by anyone and maybe they're just stealthy about it that they were someone who come in ready to, you know, throw bombs or anything like that. So I I appreciate everybody's um I think every single person had a strong opportunity and there I I'll be frank. I always I thought this was going to be first and last place might be within a a hairs of each other. So I think everyone had great things to offer. So but unfortunat we have to pick one. So that's what went >> Yeah. Well, I have to agree with you. I think every single candidate that I saw, I um I thought they were all great, you know. So, all three were great. I am also with you. I get very concerned um of someone coming in with a

115very specific agenda because it's not very cohesive to what's happening on a board, right? We need to be working with a lot of different things. And a lot of times people come in and think they're going to work on that one thing and they don't even understand the laws or anything behind it. And so, I didn't see that. And so that's something that I'm always very cautious of as well. Um but I saw just really um really strong people all all three that we that we spoke with. Um I can give everyone just an opportunity to speak for a moment and then we can we can go into it further. But Seth, do you want to say anything? >> Oh, I agree. I think that that's part of the concern is they didn't want to

116go through the process to be on the ballot or elected and have to try and publicly defend themselves and then now this is a way to sneak in and become on the board. But it's and then if they enjoy it like then you run again then next November the 27 is when those districts are up and then two of them are up and then then it is up to the voters and so I think and that's part of our I was a little disappointed there was no public comment whatsoever. I know we had been pushing like we wanted the public to um but I know I had been told by a good buddy of mine that you know part of it for Rio Rancho there's nobody here and sometimes you get this concerned that there's

117nobody in the board meeting there's no public comment but I think that's a testament to the board and to the district itself that we're doing it right it's not like other districts where people show up and they feel like they have to do 45 minutes of public comment because every all the parents are ticked off and they want to complain about what's going on and where students are treating being treated poorly. Here we don't have that issue and I think that they are public meetings and they have the opportunity to do it. We give them that opportunity and they just choose not to because they agree with what we're doing and it's not just us, right? We're just a very minor >> like the little rivet that holds the spokes. the spokes of the district

118staff and the teachers and that make it all work and we just hold it all together and hopefully give them the funding and whatever they need to, you know, the materials that they need to be able to continue forward. >> Yeah. Um, thank you. And Rebecca, did you want to give any initial comments? >> No, I agree with all three of you. Um, we have three amazing applicants that we narrowed it down to. Um, so I think it's going to be difficult, but all I think Well, whoever we pick is going to bring, I think, just something great to the the board. Um, they all have different backgrounds that they could help us with. So, I think I think we'll make a good decision tonight no matter what. >> Yeah, I feel like we can't

119lose. But, I do want to just add um for those who are watching that, you know, and Seth brought up that of course they can run for election, right? And no matter what, it's up for election in in November of 27. Um, but Jeffrey Morgan who served on the board with me, I think Jeff was on the board with me for the last six years, right? For the full vote for the last six years. Um, and he came in midterm. But interestingly, he interviewed for a position. Um, and they did not they did not choose Jeff in that interview process and then he ran um in that that kind of midterm for that for that position and then ended up winning that election and then has been with us he for the last six years.

120So, um, just because we don't choose someone tonight doesn't mean that they can't run and and be he's been to me was a great asset to our board for for those for those years. So, I just wanted to to bring that up up. There's still opportunity. So, so with that, if we can, um, I want to just talk about some strengths and what we see and what could be good for for that position. Um, we can just go through them as they came in. I have to just look at my notes really fast. Um, so some of the things that I am concerned about just just going is that I am the only one who's been on the board and and I loved you know the the last one was like that's great opportunity. It

121is a great opportunity right because we get old and still it's true that's why we can't stay on the board forever. At the same time I do have some concerns like that's that's something that um it's a lot it's a kind of a wait. So, as I'm looking at different people, I I've been thinking about that is how to to help some of those things. Um, and and what's good with that. So, so I bring that up because I do see so just some strengths with um with Richard Boost. I think he has a lot of experience. Um I know that he actually used to help um with Dr. Kman. she never rarely rarely couldn't be in a board meeting, but I know that he actually took her role if she couldn't be here. And

122so, um, he didn't bring that up, but I do know that about him. And so, he has a lot of of experience. He helped create a lot of the policy that we have. Um, and what are some other things? Um, I like, you know, some of the things that he brought up with, um, embracing change. Um, something that I'm also looking for, and I think I saw it with all of them, um, and and they were all good, is that we really we have a new superintendent that we really need to support. And so I'm looking for that in each of those. Um, but those are some of the things I saw with him. Um, was just just some of the background that he has that I think would be very helpful. Um, so I

123think those were some of his strengths. Do we want to just go through each one or do you want me to go through each of my people? Do you guys want to just go through each one? >> No opinion. Whatever you think's best. I >> Okay. Um, >> no. Okay. >> So, let's just well, let's just talk about Richard for a moment and then we'll go to Stephanie and then we'll go to Glenn. So, those were some of the strengths that I that I saw with him. I might jot down some of the things that that you that you see um that were strengths for for Richard Bruce. Yeah, I'll offer like um having you know while we're smoking strength having intimate knowledge of the school operation is a is a is a nice uh

124addition. Um when we walk through some of the problems I I I kind of joked everything's a problem because he I said well the challenge and opportunities and he listed very much and he had detailed things to say about every single issue he brought up. Um so he he seems to have a track record and understanding where pinch points are for a school district which is a a key thing. Um yeah not not all of them had the similar strengths. uh they uh Paul talked about civility and communicating with communities and he had good questions about I interview a lot of people for my job and it's good when they have questions back and he had some good questions and they all did so >> go ahead vice president >> I agree I I think

125all of them were excellent um all three of them they students are the priority and that we want to keep that. I do agree that the background that um that candidate brings is his knowledge of the schools. Um the foundation of it all trying to and understanding though also that even though we have the legacy that everything's new and we need to embrace that change and and and the opportunities that can come about by embracing that change. And one of the things he said that, you know, even though he started helped out with the, you know, in a church with a chair and then like, you know what, I'd like to help work out. And then being there from the ground up, but then seeing the bigger picture that things are going to change. They

126have to change. And now with the the new board, the new superintendent, that we have to embrace that. And then and it's going to bring different opportunities that I think any board even if they were seasoned are going to bring challenges as well >> cuz some people are just I think all everyone when nobody seems set in their way and like when I if I get elected or if I get appointed I think we need to keep the way we're going. Everyone is open to embracing change and moving forward and looking at different opportunities and being able to work together as a team. Um, >> Rebecca, do you want to give any thoughts on Richard Bruce? >> You guys all hit every single point that I would have mentioned. So, I think he has a

127great background. Um, that would be helpful to the board. >> Okay. >> You can't just say ditto to everything. >> Ditto. That's when you're the last you get to do this. So, um, okay. So, our next one was um Stephanie. And um I do love that Stephanie is she has kids in the district. She currently has children that are going through it and she also has that teaching experience and that she is she's in it. So, she used some really good um words such as like Yazi Martinez and IDA and um she talked about special um education and understanding those things. And so in that way I find those as really good strengths um that she has that she could bring to it um that I appreciated. So anyone want to add to to that?

128>> Yeah, I agree with everything you said. I think having um you know I know uh Madam President you you're an educator as well, but having you know there is a disconnect that often happens when you're on a school board. There's kind of some certain barriers. We're not we don't really interact with teachers except for maybe in a friendly way. We can't we're you know we're not going in and talking to teachers one-on-one to see what's happening in the classroom. So we try to get that best. So having someone that's working in the trenches is is a valuable pers perspective and especially special ed and uh and she's a math teacher. So I am I was well I was a terrible math student. It's my professional uh interest. Oh, >> me as well. You want

129to give any thoughts on that one? >> One and one is 11. Um, no, I agree. Um, yeah, having someone that knows and understands the the new legislative created office of special education and what that's going to be and be able to work with the st the district staff to be able to ensure that we're compliance and we're more compliant and and knowing that we're doing everything that we can for those kids and the families that uh are with them, but knowing and understanding because some of the I'm like I've been in local government for 20 years. There's still some stuff that goes through legislation. and I have no idea what the hell they're talking about. Like that's just the way it is, right? But having somebody that knows that, understands it, you know, same

130with Glenn being former up there at the state level working with it. But I think overall and then yeah having kids in the district to be able to understand and bring that perspective to all like I did 10 years ago. This is how they were doing it at schools and having that like kind of finger on the pulse of what's happening in the schools today every day and well you have kids in there. >> Yeah. Don't forget my little kids. Just kidding. Yeah. Oh. >> Okay. We go to Rebecca. Do you want to give any thoughts? >> I'm just going to say ditto because no one wants to hear my incredible voice anyway. But I Stephanie I love Stephanie's background. I love her education. I love the um >> everything that she's done so far

131and coming from the East Coast. I do enjoy that too that she taught over in Pennsylvania. Um so I think this is going to be a really hard decision. That's all I know. But I do have someone. But I I thought she was great. She'd be an asset, too. So that's it. >> Okay. Good stuff. And so I do want to go through Glenn Walters and then we can just kind of start talking a little bit more. But strengths that I see that he brings um is he knows a lot of kind of the political part that's going on and he um talked about some of those very specifically and understands some of those. So sometimes like we have to go up to Santa Fe for some things and it's always helpful to have board

132members who know people um to to help us. I I have gotten to know people in the last six years, but he's really he's he's pretty strong in that from from what I understood. So, he had and he has a lot of energy um definitely with those things very um well spoken um and brought up some good things. So, those were some things that I I thought would that were great strengths for him. If anyone wants to add to that one, >> should we let Rebecca at least give a chance to >> Rebecca, do you want to give some strengths on that one? >> Oh, I didn't go last. Thank you. I appreciate it. Uh so, um I actually really liked his background. Like you said, the legislative stuff he knew a lot about. Um

133he just had a wide variety. I like that he was doing up todate information like he mentioned Dr. Dodd and his 100 day plan. Um and just a lot of things that that are currently going on within the district. So he like you said, he reads everything. Um, so like I said, this is going to be a tough decision, but I think he'd be, like I said, all three would be an asset. So, I guess we'll have to figure that out. >> Okay. Thank you. Um, so I'm going backwards now. I'm just going to go with Seth and then >> I agree. I mean, yeah, his and being current with it. I mean, it's been a while since he was commissioner. I think he turned out in 2018 or 2019 around there. and five, six

134years later still being able to current with the legislators that are there. I know some of them have been there for a long time, some of them too long, some not long enough. Right. So, it's been having that finger on the pulse for and the way it works up there. I'm sure Lauren and our I forget that guy's name that was here that one day they did the report out but like you have to be able to have your feet New Mexico politics are just crazy and it's 99% who you know in New Mexico I don't I don't ever heard of the six degrees of Kevin Bacon six at least six people right and then I know Jerry Shallow is always joking around the chamber that it's two degrees of Jose in New Mexico like

135there's only one other person that if you don't know somebody, you know somebody that knows that person. So, it's very well it's for a large state, fifth largest state area wise, it is the a very tight community and everyone knows everyone from Roone to Los Cusus Clovis to Grants >> Pytown. So, I think yeah, he brings a lot of I think they all that's very I agree with Rebecca. this is going to be. I might just close my eyes and point and that's that's my winner cuz put their name in the hat and draw them out. I mean I don't I think there's it sucks cuz two people aren't going to but they can run. It's hard to I mean they're all getting paid the same no matter what. If you get the job or

136don't get the job, you still get the same paycheck. But like I think either way, I mean even if we did that and like put everybody's name in a hat and drew it out like we're not going we're not going to lose with these three candidates. I think it was we've been very lucky that we were and I apologized to Dr. for teasing him initially cuz he was like if we get 12 candidates and I was like we'll be lucky if we get two >> we got >> but we got nine one was a little late but I think that shows the community is involved and wants to be involved so >> okay thank you Michael >> I'll just offer everything I agree you know while I think many of us would like to maybe

137if you had more time be more involved with like the legislative process but we're all having full-time jobs and to execute that is is really hard. And I'm not saying that Mr. Walters has unlimited time either, but um being already a breast of all those things is is an asset. Um I really liked his comments about system systematic processes in place that's uh um very having good processes eliminates a lot of problems and being more be dynamic with it. And then his he referenced the 100 day plan numerous times. I am always a sucker for someone who does their homework ahead of time and uh showing that he's read what's going on and what Dr. Dodd is is is thinking about I think is a key thing. So, >> all right. Who's going to help

138me move this along then to our next part? So, I think that as as we kind of talk about where I I think maybe some of you do have some specific sounds like Rebecca does. I'm still kind of struggling honestly um with my thoughts. um but is is to the point as we were doing those interviews is that we might not all totally agree we have to get a majority of us to to to and it's hard when there's four of us right um but once we do make that decision just remember that we work as a as a board we and we and we uphold that for everyone so I think that's just important >> sounds like that regardless uh no one will be unhappy >> I agree I agree you're right you're you

139though. >> Okay. So, who would like to get us started on whittling this down for us a little bit? >> Already volunteered that she had a pick. So, let's let her start. >> So, am I emotioning? >> You don't really have to motion. You can just unless you really really want to. Uh, but it's up I guess you could or you could just give us your thoughts and we can discuss um before we go into emotion. So, that's up that's up to you. like who I >> just say who >> I would just say you know what what you're thinking and maybe some of your reasoning for that and and not necessarily emotion just yet unless you really want to go that way. >> I was going to totally rip the band-aid off like I

140said yesterday but no I like this is a tough decision like I said but >> and I could say who I'm leaning towards. Is that okay? Do it. >> I'm leaning towards Mr. Walters only because of his he was on the county commission so he knows how to run meetings, run board meetings. He's heavily involved with Am I Why are you making a face? Why is he making Why you say making a face? >> Oh, was he? >> Oh, it looks like he was making a funny face. I that's just I I feel like he has a really good background with running meetings and being able to help us out as a board, especially with Amanda being the only, you know, >> longtime board member and us newbies being here. I don't know. I just

141feel that he would be a really good asset for us. But I thought the other two were amazing, too. I don't know. It's that's it. >> Okay. Anyone comments, thoughts on that? >> I don't I think I mean it's Yeah, it's great. He's been on boards. >> I think every board from being on boards, they're all a little bit different on how they're run and how they how it's happens. And >> you have to I mean like we're still trying to figure out who the like I motion. Oh, wait. I have to say my name, figure it out. Lauren has too many rules for us. But >> I I I honestly I I I actually really I like um Glenn and I'd be fine if we if we chose him. I was kind of leaning

142towards the other two a little bit more. Richard Bruce and and Stephanie Smith is really where my thoughts are going. Um but I like Glenn as well. So if anyone else wants to give some more thoughts towards that Michael. >> Yeah. Um if you were to uh my ranking would be this. I'll just say what my ordering is and the top and bottom if you were to I didn't really do points but I would be fine either way of any of these. If you were to make me grank, I would probably say Glenn, Stephanie, Richard would be my ordering. >> Hey, you're you wanna >> I would agree with that. I have that my top two are Gwen and Stephanie and it but it's I mean it's it's a photo finish, right? We're gonna have

143to get the c get your camera out. And uh And did you want to give an opportunity to like maybe say why you were maybe leaning towards the other two a little bit better? >> You don't have to. You don't have to. I know. >> No, no, that's right. I'm just trying to collect my thoughts. I I like all of them. I love Glenn's energy. I also worry about Glenn's energy with that. And so I think it can um it can be both. Um and so like I said before, I do love that. I think he has a lot of um he does have some pathways and people that he knows and such. Um but yeah, I think I guess maybe for me I just like a little bit of the calmness of of the

144other two. I can't really say that. Um, and I think that it's interesting because I think Richard and Glenn actually are very similar in a way, but very yeah, one's just a little more a little more >> one's more state level legislation, one's more, you know, district level. >> So, >> there's like a band for each one of them and they could all fall in a good place. So, >> yeah. Um, but I I tr I like like I said, I like all of them. I I do I really do like Stephanie's background. Um, I think that's really could be helpful as we go forward. I'm I can you tell that I'm still struggling and still trying to collect my thoughts, but we have two of you who already have pretty strong opinions. >> We

145know. >> So, >> if are all three available because whoever gets appointed tonight has to attend the meeting Monday to get sworn in. Do we know are all three candidates available? >> I would think I would think >> they should because similar to today, right? If you can't make it then >> well that one if we appoint I mean we can always do that >> but they have to be they have to be sworn in right before the 23rd. >> Yeah. So we could hold something. >> You don't necessarily have session to do that. >> Yeah. >> Okay. All right. >> Okay. I just wanted to make sure because I know if we don't then PED is going to and I've we've been told by multiple state legislators that we do not want peed to

146pick our board member. I won't name names, but we've I've had a handful of state legislators are like, "You guys need to pick somebody. Don't let peed do it." >> What if we did like a not to make it more complicated, a rank choice a little bit? everyone's everyone's >> rank choice being like if you're one you get five points if you're your your second place gets three and then kind of >> oh >> the bottom person gets eliminated if you and then >> and then their vote gets added to >> that may be too complicated I'm just trying to I'm trying >> for me >> well we got yours so you're Glenn Stephanie Richard and Rebecca do you have kind of a rank the way that you did it just out of curiosity >>

147I I was gonna say the same as Michael so Glenn's Stephanie and then Yeah, I'm like Yeah. >> Okay. Do you have kind of a >> And then Richard, sorry. >> I think again same as last night. Yours and mine are the same. Stephanie, Glenn, Richard. >> Okay. You like You like Stephanie? >> I like Stephanie. >> I like everybody. >> I know. Me, too. >> I like them all, too. like this is this is >> even looking I mean maybe >> with respect we eliminate Richard because he's in the bottom >> and uh we have two people that they're the top but everyone Stephanie's their second right at least they're second >> um >> I'm trying to read through >> Stephanie kind of first and >> oh yeah no at least second I mean

148yeah two two second there and then >> okay >> um >> okay I would have r probably ranked are a little higher, but there's already Yeah, he's Yeah, with everyone. >> Oh. Oh, that's good. So, that's good. Okay. Um, so now we're at Stephanie and Glenn, and you guys feel pretty confident on >> if if you if you wanted to have Stephanie, I would fully support that. I think she It's It seems like it's it's almost neck and neck, right? Two two first places. >> Very different. Very different. >> Yeah. Well, okay, maybe let's say this. What do you think? struggling, I guess. >> What do you think the the most precient needs are? Is it going to be that we need help with the legislature or is the most precient need that we have

149uh a more um I want to be the only PhD. Just kidding, Kesler. Just kidding, Stephanie. Uh you all, everyone intimidates me. Just kidding. Um I is do we want somebody to have more legislative experience and that's maybe a a gap in the board as it stands? I mean, we all have some experience. I'm not um or is having more uh in the trenches um teaching experience. I mean, I know you're a teacher, Amanda, and as well as but also having the academic training. >> Yes. Yes. Very different teacher. Yeah. >> Um >> I could be convinced either way. >> Seth, give me some thoughts. I would say the only thing that Glenn has over Stephanie in my mind is that it's only a year and a half that you're going to be on the

150board. It takes a while to, if you've never been on a board, it takes a while to learn how a board works, the policies, the procedures, the how it functions, working with legislators, working with the district office, the staff, and he I think he would be able to, I guess, be brought up to speed faster and in line just because he has previous board experience and he has all that with the legislation and being at the state level on the higher education, like he gets how it all works and who you need to talk to and the timelines on that and like fiscal years and figuring out all that the funding the dynamics of it and what a geo bond means and what all the other everything is Greek to me you know what I

151mean >> I think that would be and it's nothing against Stephanie not knowing that it can be learned it just takes a while and just having that but because it's a you're finishing a term and you only have I get about 18 months now to finish the term I guess I would say is I would uh being on a previous board I would not put high premium on because that's something that can be learned quickly. It it's something that um I mean and we have people to make keep us in line and and and uh that's what Lauren's job's here. He needs a job to do and if someone so u I wouldn't necessarily say that is the salient issue that he's been on boards personally. Um, I would say there's some strength in legislature,

152but I can I I'm not even completely convinced that being uh having muscles to flex uh with knowing people in the legislature is the need that we have. I'm not saying it's not a need. It But is it the sailing need? I I don't know. >> Sorry, I'm contemplating in my mind. Um >> looks like you're glaring at me, so it's hurting my No, I'm just kidding. I'm just kidding. >> Just that you know that resting face. No, I'm just really I'm trying to decide because as I brought up in the beginning, that is something that that I am is important to me, right, is to make sure that they there is some um is that they are able to go quickly and to your point right it it can be picked up pretty quickly

153though I'll say for me and I kind of came into it right as a the president of the board really took me a couple of years to to get things tender like to to understand. So, I am a little nervous about that and I and I don't mean as I say this because I I really like Glenn and I gave you like some of his great strengths and everything that we're talking about too. At the same time, I guess I worry about those strengths being a lot. Um that's my that is my only concern is is those those same strengths just being and I know he's like I don't have an agenda coming in but I also worry that maybe >> Yeah. There's some of that >> strong armed for it like to put it

154bluntly. >> Yeah. >> Steamrolled maybe is a better way. >> Yeah. Yeah. And so so I do I I think I love that he's well spoken all those. That's my that's I guess my concern a little bit is is is that going to be and I always think too when I'm thinking about boards I think about too how it goes with the district staff and we just need to make sure and I can't tell that right off the bat, right? But um is making sure that we have a cohesive relationship too with the staff and and there's not any sort of like why aren't you getting this done or why we should be doing this and this is let me tell you how to do your job. So that that's the only I guess some

155of the concern that that and I don't know because I don't I don't know um I don't know him you know personally but that's the only thing I I could see that that is a possible concern and it could be totally fine. He spoke to that and said you know that he he believes in that great relationship and such but those are just some of my thoughts as that are going through my mind that I hate even having to talk over here but those are some of my thoughts. Awesome. Anyone else thoughts with that? But I I I do think he'd be a great asset, too. So, I I think it would be fine. But >> that may that that begs the the grand question, if it is him, is does the legislative prowess, for

156lack of a better word, overcome the steamrolling thing? And I don't know the answer to that. Uh >> I if if I if if Stephanie sounds if that is if that's if it's kind of like uh then I'm I'd be happy to go with Stephanie if you're flexing on that. >> Yeah, I'm I I really like So I'm still I'm just bringing up >> we have good support I mean from a lot of the legislators already. So I mean it's not >> and um I do always think that getting you know >> we all have busy jobs so it's hard to stay up and breast of the uh the committees that are happening way before the legislature. So >> now hurting myself like or just even not really hurting myself but my kind of thought

157on that is that we did have a scenario where um we had Beth Miller who was able to get us into the room with someone that we couldn't get in. I mean, we could, but it just it was a different because there was a relationship there and so that was helpful. So, um, >> Rebecca, >> so I I'm going to speak. I'm joking. So, so I have a question. >> Would either of these two be willing to run as a candidate? Like to me, like they're going to be in here for the 18 months and then if they're not willing to run as a candidate when their term is up, you know what I mean? Like that I mean, they could both say yes. I don't know if that would be a deciding factor, but

158you know, we're going to get used to one board member for 18 months and then we're going to have, you know, and granted three people could run for that election, right? And we could have a totally new board member and not the same person that we decided to appoint. But I are we able to ask him that question or >> I mean I think that's a hard one to know cuz sometimes you don't know until you're even in it. You're like this was way different than what I thought it was going to be. >> Right. Right. >> Rebecca if it's okay. I personally think that's not necessarily the most salient um >> okay that's fine >> consideration. That's personal opinion. I'm not trying uh it's a total valid thing to think through. I think you're

159trying to think which is a valid thing is like is this person good want to be serious in the position for the long haul if that's if that's correct. >> Yeah, that's that's exactly where I was going. >> Yeah, I think that's a salient thing. But whether they want to run or not, I mean I mean we didn't get anyone sour on this. So >> well and you've been in the community a long time and so you've you've seen Glenn. Would you feel like do you feel like that's a good fit? Cuz >> Yeah, I think I met him a couple times when I was first hired with the county. It was his last year of commission. So, I didn't have a lot of interaction with him. I was under the I was a brand

160new emergency manager trying to get my feet wet and figure it out. And we had to write a 18-month plan in six months. So, that was not a lot. But I agree with what you're saying. Like it does I don't know. Like even for me, I know Gary Trip had teased me like, "Hey, you should run. I'm not going to run." And I thought he was just yanking my chain. And then they called me and they're like, "Hey, you want to run?" And I was like, "Well, can I think about it?" "Well, you can sleep on it. Tomorrow you have to put your name in." And I was like, "Well, all right. I can guarantee you this. It's not what you signed up for. It's >> it's way different watching it. even as a community

161and as the emergency manager and being primarily responsible for all the peed uh PPE working with JC and Melissa at the time and Beth and trying and all the school districts I was responsible for getting the PPE to all school districts in the entire state. So, and then and that was part of like, well, you should get on the board and then you can have and it like me I'm pretty busy. I don't know if I can. And then I wait till the busiest time of my life and decide to join it. But yeah, like you don't know. And it's a lot different than watching it and seeing it and how it all works. And then when you're here, there's a lot more to it than what people see for the hour and a half,

162two hours that we're on live stream, right? There's a lot of behind the scenes that we're doing, working on talking and it's great like you know visiting the staff meeting with the district staff the teachers going visiting schools but you don't as a public member trying to decide should I run or not you don't always see that side of it so it would be but that would just be more and I I think they both have the the ability to commit to the time >> for for and then you have you know you have to do trainings attend different conferences and different things and most of the boarding I think it's going to slow like once graduation's over every every year in the spring though it gets crazy with dinners and graduations and but I

163think for us it's a little bit more unique because we came in and it was not like just we have a new superintendent so I love that change and the feeling for the school and so like everything being new whoever it is I think part of our job as the board is to reassure the superintendent and the staff not just district staff all of the staff and the students that we are here for them and it's like you have four brand new board members you have a new superintendent but we all committed to work together work as a team and do what we need to do for the community despite the scale scariness of I think one of them had me you know the scariness of everybody's all brand new and like oh what's going

164to happen now like they're going to change everything and it's reassuring that we're not going to keep it the same right you want to have change we need that change but they are still who we work for serve the public and we you know the staff the students the district office and we're going to remain committed to Yeah. >> After our discussion, Amanda, would you do you think it's that you have the same ranking? >> I I still just cuz I I like them all. So, I'm still just struggling, but I'm comfortable if >> we have six. >> I know. I know. I honestly I was actually laughing about that earlier. I would be I'm like, man, APS gets all those extra burgers. I wish we could just have all of those because I truly

165like as I look at each of them I see such good strengths with each and every one of them. But truly I am comfortable if Rebecca wants to make her motion. Um and I'm okay with that if if she if we want to to go for that or if we want to have some more discussion. Michael, you want to add some thoughts? >> I was only just going to say that I mean to break the deadlock we're not I don't think we could say it's a deadlock. just as like a tight rate. But if you if if you were thinking I I still slightly lean towards uh Stephanie, I would I would I would change my ranking if you if that but if you're like I'm not I I'm not there yet either. So >>

166I'm not there yet either. So um I'm really comfortable with with both of them. see different things and um in that that short time span maybe I am kind of thinking that that I I I do think where a lot of you were headed with that that that could be a good thing just for we have a short time span and we have a lot happening and so it could be good to go with someone who has some experience with with boards so >> we can make sure he doesn't steamroll us >> well and I think I think he's I think he's I really think he's I think he's gonna be Great. Um, but I, like I said, I always I just always worry. I just always like to look at all the the dynamics

167and and what something's going to do to the board relationship, to the district relationship, with the new superintendent, with, you know, all of those things. And I just I want to have such a good relationship with all of those aspects of it. And I and I totally think that it could be and maybe even me just vocalizing that is I think enough that as you know that we as we move forward with with whatever decision we make is is that is so important to me because over the last six years I've just really tried to build that really good relationship with with our district staff because we don't move well if we don't work together. So >> yeah, I completely agree. I mean, I would you have to always have in the back of your

168mind that >> you you can't have someone that >> you know and and there was no indication of this what you'll say, but >> someone with a strong personality that has like and they know how things work or that how they're supposed to work and and you know as a no no indication this would be the behavior, but you don't want that to source what's being built as a nice relationship. So, and a nice team effort. or have you changed your thoughts on on kind of where you are? Do you >> I have no idea. >> I'm kind of looking to you to >> So I I will say after um Amanda after you mentioning the steamrolling kind of thing. I don't know. It might >> I don't know. >> There's no such a strong

169personality, right? I mean >> no he seems great. He seems >> No, he honestly he seems great. But I understand the dynamics in regards to the board and the personalities, right? Like right now, we all function really well and we all get along really well and stuff like that. I'm not saying that if Mr. Walters comes in, it'll rough it up or even Stephanie. I don't know. We don't know, right? Just like when you we get elected, you don't know who's going to be on that board, right? You're like hoping that people elected the right people, right? So, we're making that decision, right? So honestly right now it's like I'm I'm right in like they're both the same on my level. So if someone makes a motion I don't Amanda you're really good with persuading

170and giving your opinion. It was actually really good. >> I don't mean to >> doing this a long time. It's good. >> No. Well the funny thing is I'm persuading you but I haven't persuaded myself on either one. So that's the problem. But um >> I think either way we're not going to make a bad decision. Honestly, that's it. So I don't know. >> Um I don't know. I don't know if we can seek other opinions or if you guys even want to ask other opin I don't know if anyone would want to even give an opinion because then you are like us and you're put into the >> Can we ask >> into the >> Yeah, I think the boards are too because that would be a cop out. >> Yeah. Huh. >> Can

171we ask him to get down? I mean, we can, but I don't I think that's dangerous because it's his >> his boss. >> Yeah. >> Your boss. >> Yeah. >> So, that's So, I'll be I'll I'll I'll be I would love actually to do that, but I don't know if that would be a kind thing to do at the same time. Um especially if the board makes a different decision too on top of that. Um so, it's funny because you guys kind of persuaded me the other way. So I and I'm hold I feel like I'm holding everyone captive. >> No, you're not. I mean, if you said I want if you said I want to move that um >> or either one. >> Either one. I would probably support either one. So that's to

172be frank. >> That's a we got to make a decision. >> Frank's not on the list. >> Did I say Frank? Oh, >> you're just rolling out now. You're rolling with them now. >> If you're going to do that and Glenn's going to do or exc is it Glenn, you can't have two. So that might alone. >> So I'm still I guess this is where I still am is I'm still kind of holding this um the experience with the legislative and a lot of those sort of things and the experience with the schools and the special education. I I I'm just still trying to weigh those in my mind as to as to which one would be the most helpful. >> Let me muddy the water further. Uh um Lauren knows this is my behavior.

173Um, I feel like if I were to go around and talk to people in the community, what would you say that the people who would say what's the what would you think if they were to rank what's the number the priority? They would say um deep understanding of special education and IEPs and and or would they say better relationship with the legislature? I think they would say the first if you were to ask what the if you said ask parents who who you think is what do you think is a uh more important uh special or skill set to have on a board I bet they would say personally >> maybe that that doesn't necessarily mean it's the right opinions of you know sometimes just because everyone says it doesn't mean it's right >> but

174um >> no I agree and and you had brought it up like how do you find the pulse in the community and make sure that You're ultimately we're making a decision for how many thousands of people live in district 4, right? So, how do we know? >> But you think I'm off base there? I think if you were to ask everybody IEPS and special education, that's the thing I care about more than the legislature. >> We had the two candidates and those are their platforms that they're running on in that district. Who would that community vote for? >> Yeah. I mean, and so the knowledge of that though, >> if that was the case, Glenn won because he's won he's won an election and presumably there. >> Well, it's that's a different >> You're saying

175like >> it's a different district for county commission. >> Oh, right. >> It's a much nonetheless, >> it's a much bigger district. >> Um, okay. So well and I at the same time we also need like the ability to to move aboard right and we make policy and we and we hire a superintendent and we work on just saying the water that's why I said I was I know I know it's good so I guess okay here's a couple of things where we're at I we we can keep talking we can make a motion we can um we can wait until tomorrow to make a decision and see if anyone in the public weighs in. I don't know if that's necessarily going to happen. Um, but that's >> I personally would rather make a decision

176just to save us at evening. I don't know how you guys >> No, that's funny. And I'm >> I don't think sleeping on it is going to make me be like, "Oh, I had an instant." >> Suddenly all of these wonderful candidates. Um I because they're all fantastic. >> I looked on their Facebook page and there's Yeah. No, it's not. I don't think there's anything like that that's going to personally overrule me, please. I >> should we ask an angel in the clouds? >> Yeah. Uh any other thoughts you want to give? Um, Rebecca, >> no, I don't think so. I think we should try to make our decision tonight just so we can all have a free evening tomorrow night. Not that not that that's important, but I think >> not I know it's

177not the most important thing, but >> I would like to rest so I can fully function on Monday and be at our board meeting Monday. So, that would be great. I think we're >> I think either way and I do agree with if if you were to speak with the public and you know our community I think they would go towards obviously having someone on there that um h knows knowledge of you know special education and stuff like that because we do have a big you know student percentage of that so that I don't >> I don't know it's tough this is tough it really is year and a half. >> Yeah. I'm I'm trying to get Seth to give me a little bit more of his of his input is what I'm trying to

178do. >> I can see the smoke coming out of his ears from here. >> I can't really I don't realize how close you see us, but then when you see our faces, I'm realizing >> it is really funny to watch you guys because usually I'm sitting there, right? It is really funny. It's like so different. >> Yeah. During the pandemic, I got to to see everyone's faces very up close and we there were some conversations that had to be had that watch what you're doing in your camera. >> Your face is showing too much. >> So, I'll retract the statement if it adds confusion. But I think I've slightly moved towards Stephanie as my number one pick. But if that makes it if you've gone the opposite way, I'll take it back. >> I feel

179good about >> I know this is rough. like >> so >> and I honestly I still would feel good even about Richard. Honestly, I think he's great, too. And I've heard great things. >> Yes. >> We're not talking about Richard. I think that if if he was the I would Yeah, they're all great. Perfect. >> Um, go Seth. Give I feel like you have thoughts that you're not giving me. No, >> that's why I keep trying to >> I'm just like we're not going to solve >> any of it. The world like the world's problems. And it's part of it is even >> with his background and experience in theory, he's here 18 months and it's one two legislative sessions. How much like what's the >> move the needle a lot? >> How much work

180is actually going to be accomplished in in that two years? Is it going to be worth like noticeably worth it at the end of it? And I think in the most part I think for I would assume there's quite a bit of staff watching just to and they're screaming names at us and they're just nobody's texting or telling us like vote for >> put in public vote for Joe right now but um >> and yeah >> that is important things to think about. That helping me or making it worse? No, it is important to think about that strategic plan. >> Glen talked about the strategic plan. He was he he he was the he was the one that mentioned it. >> Yeah, he did. And yet Stephanie can also she has on like battleground like

181you know ideas. >> She's in the trenches of what can be. So >> does the board develop the strategic plan or we just >> So we are a part of that. It is actually supposed to be the board's strategic plan, but really we it's the the district puts together community and all sorts of things and we do vote on that. Am I remember am I saying that right, Lauren? And we vote on that strategic plan. So we kind of >> with it. >> So in a way we own it a little bit just because we um vote on it and say that it's that that's what we think the district should be doing. But it's part of a like the board's involved, the community is involved, the district staff's involved, and really they're heavily giving

182opinions on on what those things. >> So very much so. Yeah. Would you add anything to that, Lauren, with the strategic plan? >> Okay. >> Or Yeah, either way. >> Well, yours are no help at all. Yeah, I think I still think I've slightly moved into and these are like within these are decimal point changes between top and bottom, but I think I'd move slightly to Stephanie in that regard. >> I will make a motion that we appoint Stephanie to the board. >> Board member Barry second. >> Okay, I have a motion and a second. I think we'll do a a roll call vote on this one. I think would be appropriate. So, um when you're asked, you can just say yes or no if you agree or disagree. So, I just want to make

183sure. So, I got the motion from um from Michael and then the second was >> other way around. >> Other way. I hope it was the other way. See, I already forgot. So, JC or I'm sure has it. So, >> that's why I can't do another one tomorrow. >> Yeah. So, the motion came from Seth and the second came from Michael. And then JC, will you do a a roll call vote for us on this? Vice President Mohler, >> yes. >> Secretary Murray, >> yes. >> Board member Barry, >> yes. >> President Galbreth, >> yes. >> Carries 4. >> Okay, that was actually really painful and good, but it was a hard that was a hard thing. >> What a roller coaster for you back there. Yeah. >> Yeah. I will say for those who

184are watching um uh Stephanie Smith has been with us since yesterday watching all these proceedings. So that does that does say something about your commitment. >> She was intimidating us from >> No. So and he's now getting your picture taken and that's the next part you get to deal with um as we as we move ahead. Um so we deliberated and we that was our appointment too. So that was both of we kind of have them in two separates, but um Warren, can I welcome you to come up and just give us any other things that we need to know from from this point forward. And um I don't know if Dr. Dodd would want to say anything. I I don't know if you after Lauren speaks if you have anything that you do want

185to just you're welcome to, but I'm just going to put that out there if you do. Okay, go ahead. I just I I guess what's happening next and what do we need to know? So, we we've done that and um and what do we need to do from here? >> The next thing that needs to be done is now that the board has taken action to appoint um the next thing that will need to happen is she'll need to be sworn in and we do have that on the agenda for the the next meeting on Monday the 13th. Um hopefully that that will happen. If not, we'll have to make different arrangements, but they need to be sworn in and then we'll have to let the secretary know that the appointment has been made. >>

186Okay. Okay. So, we at this point are good. We're going to swear them in hopefully on Monday. So, we'll have that discussion and and and such, but there's nothing else at the board. >> We may also put together a letter for you to sign. >> Yes. >> Okay. Okay. Do you have questions for on anything with anything else with the process or and you are also welcome to make comments too. I'll actually go up to Rebecca. Rebecca, do you have any comments or questions? >> No, just congratulations to Stephanie. That was good. >> I'll just say yes, congratulations. Um, but it could have gone either way. A breath of a butterflies flap could have changed the outcome, I think. So, we had really strong candidates. >> Seth, anything you want to add? >> No, congratulations.

187We look forward to working with you and learning more about OSC and all that fun stuff. >> Yay. All of that fun stuff. I um and we have Dr. Dodge who came up, but you know, really quick, I just I want the community to know that on on these these last three that um that we've been talking about tonight and that we interviewed, I actually received some feedback on all of them and it was all positive. I haven't received anything and I haven't received a ton um but I have received feedback from the community on all of on all of these candidates and so I'm really truly grateful for all of them um who stepped up and and I'm really excited. Um, I think I would have been excited for all of them truly. So,

188I'm excited to to to work with Stephanie. Um, but Dr. Dodd, yeah, if you want to I just want to give you an opportunity if you want to give some comments. Ve >> very brief. Um, thank you so much. First of all, congratulations to Miss Smith, board member Smith. Um, we're very happy for you and we know that, um, you will work tirelessly to, uh, support uh, student, staff, and our communities in Rio Rancho public schools. Um I do want to acknowledge um Mr. Bruce and Mr. Walters. Um I think that they were fantastic candidates. Um and um it was very very clear to me that they were both deeply committed um to our very fine school district. So thanks to them and and then thanks to everyone else who was interested in the position.

189Um and then finally, I just want to thank the board. Um, I I've gotten to see the board do this kind of painful work since December in selecting a new superintendent and now selecting um a new board member. And I just want to um just really acknowledge the amount of time thought that that the board puts into making the right decisions on behalf of our students and staff and and uh community members. So, um I'm excited to get to work. One of these days I'm gonna get to sit up there. When? When? President Gobble? >> Someday. Anyway. No, Monday. Right. >> Um so I look forward to getting to work. >> She's not here. So we'll let you sit up. >> I know you sitting by me. >> Thank you, Vice President Mo. Appreciate that.

190Um finally, it's been a great um it's been a great week. And so again, I just want to say congratulations to to Miss Smith. I look forward to working with her. >> Okay. Thank you. I'm so grateful for your comments. Thank you for being willing to to do that. We haven't talked about that in advance. thanks for being willing to come up. Um I will say um especially since we have it I always I put everything under advanced planning but because there's that board meeting that's coming up on the um on the 13th and just a reminder that finance committee meeting has been cancelled so that's not happening. >> Is there a reason why >> um this just things aren't quite prepared yet to be presented in a way that would be helpful. So >>

191yeah, >> it wasn't my behavior at the first meeting that >> was inviting. >> Okay. Okay. >> Yeah. Um meeting tomorrow. >> The meeting tomorrow is cancelled. Um so we will not have that meeting. Um you guys have to be really quiet with your excitement. Okay. That you're having. Yes. So we won't have that meeting tomorrow. Um and also on the 13th it will be um and Dr. Dr. Dodd's been here for our last two meetings and many other meetings, but it will be his official meeting where he's up here um and doing that. And I do I am sad that I won't be here for for that. Um but sometimes work gets in my way of my side gigs. So >> there will be many more. >> Yeah, there will be many more. There

192will be many many more. And on that note, please let's just not have to do this again. I I've done a pandemic. I've done a new superintendent. I've done a new board member. I'm trying to think of some of the other things that have happened in the last six years. >> We're all holding each other ransom. If you're mean to us, we might jump off and tired. >> Yeah. Um so, uh with that, yes, there's a lot of other things that are that are coming up. um that meeting on the 13th, the Phoenix dinner. If you please look in your email, there is a Claudia sent out um a little invitation for the I remember if it was the Crimson or the Phoenix that she sent out today. >> She did both. Okay. So, make

193sure that you get in there and just it it asks you if you're attending and what you would want to eat and all those things. And a reminder, the Crimson is that top it's the top 25, I think. Four. It's top 25, right? for or yes for Rio Rancho and then the um the Phoenix is those who just have had some really intense things that have happened to them. Um students have had and they're graduating. So those are you're welcome to go to both of those. Um we also have an employee dinner that's going to be coming up and I think that's in May. Is that right JC? So just kind of keep all those things on your docket of all the things that are coming up. you can't make it to every single thing,

194it's okay, but it's always nice to have as many as we can have go to those things. Okay. Um and then you will also should be receiving an email from um Mia, one of our board lawyers, um with some other information, too. So, please just keep that in your mind. And with that, any other questions? Any other things that we need to say before I say the word? >> No, ma'am. >> Okay. Our meeting is a for tonight. Thank you.