No public comments.

Executive Director of Teaching and Learning Julie Heilman presented a summary of 2025 summer programs. She reviewed the grants for summer programs, noting that the Student Success Act was cut due to a shortfall at the state, which was a cut of about $90,000. 

Attendance:

• K-5: 167
• 6th: 6
• 9-12: 28 in person; 134 online in credit recovery

The Gate Youth Center also offered learning based on state standards and enrichment.

Director Landon-Hays said to thank summer school staff who worked so hard all summer. 

Ms. Heilman told the board about La Cima, a camp in Washington state dedicated to collaboratively developing leadership opportunities for Latine/x youth and improving the collective well-being of our communities. She said that the district has applied for a grant to bring this program to Oregon, working with Western Oregon University and Salem Keizer School District, but they were not successful in securing the grant.

Ms. Heilman thanked the community partners who helped make the summer programs work:

• The Gate Youth Community Center
• Monmouth-Independence YMCA
• Western Oregon University
• Independence Library
• Independence Theater
• Independence Airpark
• WESD Migrant Education Program
• WESD Student Services
• WESD Indian Education Program

Director Graham applauded the number of community partners involved in summer programs.

Director Oliveros-Vega noted that she has worked summer programs, and agreed that it "feels different" from the regular school year -- more relaxed. She added that she appreciates providing students with experiences they haven't had, such as going to a movie at the theater.

Communications Coordinator and Board Secretary Emily Mentzer presented key information for the 2025-26 school year, including registration (for school and transportation), Kinder Jump Start, Cougar Camp, volunteer forms, first day of school, ParentSquare and PowerSchool.

Director Landon-Hays asked for the registration and school supply information be posted on the Central High School website. 

Mrs. Mentzer also reviewed how ParentSquare sends notifications.

Superintendent Jennifer Kubista updated the board on the federal funds for 2025-26 school year. She noted that the district has been told the federal government has released these funds, but the state has not confirmed the district's allocations yet. She said she would hope to have more information in the coming weeks. She noted that they are waiting on allocation confirmations on some state grants such as High School Success. 

Director Jobe lauded the efforts to "restart the engine" of school once the engine has been "shut down" for summer. 

Director Graham was impressed with the number of community partners the district worked with, noting that she was particularly pleased to learn the district is working with the Independence Airpark again. She also encouraged the district to continue working on a grant for La Cima.

Director Oliveros-Vega agreed with Director Jobe, recognizing that there are a lot of challenges, and how hard it is to start up the school year with financial challenges looming. She said that leaders are the frame of the car, but the staff are the power the car.