Superintendent April Harrison, D.Ed., thanked the Board for its support and expressed her enthusiasm for joining the District.

Dr. Harrison provided an update regarding several trees on District property that require removal due to health or safety concerns. Trees at RRJSHS and RRES East and West will be removed and replaced with appropriate species. Director Chick asked about the proposed use of ash trees and shared concerns regarding the emerald ash borer. He recommended consulting local resources, including Dee C., regarding appropriate replacement species.

Dr. Harrison reported that she continues to work on her reentry plan, which was intentionally distributed in draft form to the Board and administrative team for feedback and collaboration. Absent additional feedback, she will use the plan as her working document moving forward.

Dr. Harrison attended the Chamber Mixer on July 9 and reported that it provided a valuable opportunity to connect with local businesses and community leaders. She renewed the District's Chamber membership and plans to attend City Council meetings when possible. J. Chick noted that Mark M. serves as the City's School Board liaison, and Dr. Harrison will connect with him.

Dr. Harrison discussed whether a Board retreat remains necessary in light of current Board discussions.

The Board discussed communication preferences, including weekly or as-needed updates, group texts, and notification of significant incidents. Board members reviewed considerations regarding serial communications and quorum requirements. The Board expressed a preference for receiving timely information directly from the Superintendent regarding significant incidents before learning of them through outside sources.

Dr. Harrison thanked the Board for its continued support and C. Schloegl for the welcome provided on her first day.

H. Friend asked how the Superintendent preferred to be addressed. Dr. Harrison indicated that "April" is appropriate.

B. Sund reported attending the fair and watching the FFA swine competition. He congratulated the FFA students on their strong performance, including runner-up honors and runner-up in showmanship.

The Board discussed travel arrangements and reimbursement for the OSBA Conference, including mileage, lodging, and car rentals. J. Chick noted that the District's policy regarding lodging and travel reimbursement is unclear and requested that the policy be reviewed. The matter will be placed on the next agenda.

H. Friend stated that mileage reimbursement would be necessary for her attendance at conferences.

Business Manager Sweeney was absent but provided a report indicating there were no changes since the previous financial update. This report was provided by Dr. Harrison.

The Board and Superintendent reviewed the current School Board/Superintendent Working Agreement and the reformatted version with redlines and comments. Following discussion, the Board reached consensus to move forward with the updated and reformatted version as presented.

The Board reviewed the School Board Operating Protocols. M. Jacob emphasized allowing individuals to finish their responses when engaged in discussion with the Board and noted the importance of respectful communication. Director Chick agreed that it was a helpful reminder.

H. Friend noted that intervention may be necessary when discussion becomes inappropriate or involves criticism of staff. B. Sund emphasized adherence to Robert’s Rules of Order. M. Jacob clarified that her comments specifically concerned allowing individuals to complete their responses after being asked a question by the Board.

H. Friend reviewed the 2026–2027 Board Goals and invited feedback. The Board discussed progress toward existing goals, including continued improvements to District facilities, pride, image, and school culture.

J. Chick discussed whether certain goals should include more specific or measurable outcomes while recognizing that the goals were intentionally written broadly. Dr. Harrison stated that the existing goals remain appropriate and that areas she has identified, including a comprehensive website review, fit within the established goals.

E. Poston emphasized the importance of fostering school pride, belonging, and positive campus environments for students and staff. H. Friend discussed preparing students to become future contributors to their communities.

The Board also discussed community and social media commentary. J. Chick noted that the District cannot control community discussion. Dr. Harrison emphasized the importance of proactively communicating the District's accomplishments and positive stories to strengthen the District's public narrative.