H. Friend called a meeting of the Finance Committee of Rogue River School District 35 to
order on Wednesday May 6, 2026 at 6:01 PM.

H. Friend lead in the flag salute.

Budget Chair Naef yielded the floor to Superintendent Lee to review the Budget Message. P. Lee provided the message and reviewed any changes. The budget committee has received and reviewed the budget message.

Budget Chair Naef yielded the floor to Business Manager Sweeney to review the FY 26- 27 Proposed Budget. The budget committee has received and reviewed the proposed budget.

Budget Review Discussion and Questions

Business Manager Sweeney reviewed the district’s budget process and presentation materials.

Questions and Discussion

Coaching and Volunteers
B. Naef asked about volunteers participating with athletic teams. Mr. Sweeney stated that volunteers may participate if they have completed background checks.

Potential Budget Reductions
Discussion occurred regarding possible reductions to discipline positions. T. Kirkpatrick emphasized the importance of disciplinarians in supporting student and staff mental health.

B. Naef expressed concern about eliminating those positions. Mr. Sweeney clarified that the committee was only reviewing options and data, and no decisions had been made.

Project Youth Plus (PYP)
J. Whitehead asked about Project Youth Plus and College Now programs. T. Kirkpatrick explained the programs support primarily first-generation college students beginning in seventh grade. Approximately 75 students are currently served.

Discussion included the impact of the programs, including college readiness, transportation support, and credit recovery assistance. T. Kirkpatrick described the programs as highly impactful. P. Lee and T. Kirkpatrick clarified that the programs are intended to support students with fewer opportunities and that students who request assistance are accepted.

Staffing and Enrollment
Mr. Sweeney reviewed staffing changes associated with an enrollment reduction of 31 students and noted several staff departures and reductions in hours exceeded original estimates.

School Marshal Discussion
J. Whitehead asked about the role of the school marshal. Mr. Sweeney explained the marshal is a retired Jackson County Sheriff serving primarily as a safety consultant and participant in threat assessment meetings.

H. Friend reviewed school safety concerns, including recurring incidents, ALICE training, and appreciation expressed by staff for the marshal’s presence. 

Mental Health Resources
H. Friend asked about La Clinica mental health services. Mr. Sweeney clarified that those services were funded through grants rather than the district budget. 

Discussion also included district-funded mental health staffing options and associated costs.

Disciplinarian Roles
J. Whitehead requested clarification regarding disciplinarian responsibilities. T. Kirkpatrick explained how disciplinarians respond to classroom incidents and assist administrators with referrals, behavior plans, parent communication, and student supervision.

Athletics
Mr. Sweeney clarified there are no proposed cuts to athletic programs and that all students who wish to participate in sports will continue to have that opportunity.

RRES Student Body Fund
M. Jacob asked about the RRES student body fund listed on page 21. Mr. Sweeney explained the funds are generated through fundraising activities, including the Bubble Run, and are intended for student projects such as playground improvements.

SVA Enrollment and Staffing
H. Friend asked about SVA daily attendance and staffing levels. Mr. Sweeney stated approximately 35–40 students attend in-person daily and expressed concern that reducing staffing could eliminate the sixth-grade program.

Transportation Costs
B. Naef asked about diesel fuel costs. Mr. Sweeney stated transportation fuel pricing is determined through the district’s contract with First Student.

Budget Committee Chair B. Naef reviewed the district’s positive financial position and commended the Rogue River School District for its strong financial management and stewardship.