Sarah Wicks presented an overview of the Summer Learning Program. She reported that the program timeline was confirmed in May/June and that all students who wished to participate were accommodated. For next year, she recommended beginning family recruitment after spring break.

Superintendent April Harrison, D.Ed., presented the Superintendent’s Report, as included in the Board packet. She provided updates on K–2 online learning options through SVA and the District’s readiness to provide virtual instruction. She also shared highlights from the recent administrative kickoff and reflection on 2025–2026 successes.

Superintendent Harrison invited the Board to attend the Welcome Back In-Service and presented customized District materials that will be provided to staff. She concluded by sharing a message recognizing the community response to the recent Rogue River fire.

Principal Tori Kirkpatrick presented the RRJSHS report and invited the Board to attend the Back-to-School Bash on August 27, which will include participation from community partners.

Kirkpatrick introduced a new Pride and Image initiative focused on strengthening Chieftain Pride among staff and students and reviewed a matrix of expectations across school settings.

Kirkpatrick also reviewed college-credit opportunities available to RRJSHS students through partnerships and programs including KCC, RCC College Now/Dual Credit, and RCC Early College. 

Board discussion included opportunities to provide meaningful programs that support students’ long-term success and the District’s approach to providing broad student participation in athletics.

Principal Ashtyn James welcomed students back for the new school year, sharing the staff’s excitement to have students return from summer break and looking forward to the “high fives, air hugs, and smiles” that come with their return.

James reported positive enrollment numbers and provided information on the upcoming Open House from 4:00–6:00 p.m., which will include dinner, teacher presentations for families, and a schoolwide overview.

Principal Jennifer Parks provided an update on the SVA Back-to-School Bash and staffing. She also reviewed SVA’s new fully remote K–2 option, designed to connect students and families to the District while emphasizing developmentally appropriate, hands-on and pencil-to-paper learning.

Michele Cleveland reviewed the District’s English Learner (EL) data and ODE report numbers. She emphasized the District’s focus on the growth of every student and its ability to adapt programs and supports based on individual student needs.

Wendy Bogard provided an update on the REACH program, reporting that two ninth-grade students participating in credit recovery at the Grants Pass campus are now back on track.

She shared that this year’s student theme is entrepreneurship and that the program’s annual goal focuses on increasing student learning and parent engagement through mentorship. Students will begin the following week, with a “Snowcial” planned as a welcome event.

Kelly Gibson reported that she and Jessa Fricke will lead RREA this year, with a focus on communication and collaboration. An RREA Executive Board member will attend each Board meeting to provide representation and remain available to the Board for input.

RREA will continue monthly meetings with Business Manager Sweeney and Superintendent Harrison, as well as quarterly check-ins with building principals. Gibson also highlighted the value of experienced and highly qualified individuals returning to serve the District in a variety of roles.

Vice Chair Sund highlighted ongoing staff professional development, noting that an FFA staff member is completing welding certification that will enable the District to provide welding certification opportunities for students.

No financial projection was presented this month. The first projection will be provided in October, when additional information regarding enrollment and insurance selections is available.

Business Manager Sweeney reviewed the District’s mileage reimbursement rate for use of personal vehicles on District business and discussed potential revisions based on current rates and practices in surrounding districts. The Board discussed mileage reimbursement, increased travel costs, and rental vehicle considerations.

Sweeney indicated that the Administrative Regulation may be modified based on feedback. It was noted that any revised mileage reimbursement rate would apply to District staff and other eligible travelers. Lodging reimbursement may be reviewed at a later date. No Board action was required.