The board discussed the submission of the 2025 Board of Distinction application, including potential essay themes. There was consensus around prioritizing efforts to support students living in poverty and closing the achievement gap. The board considered highlighting school recognitions (e.g., National ESEA awards for JES and KES, Washington State school recognitions), demographic data, attendance and graduation rates, parent-teacher conference participation, and strategies for student reengagement. During the summer board retreat, the board reviewed longitudinal data showing progress in closing achievement gaps and discussed its relevance to the application. The student mobile device policy and community feedback process along with the formation of the DEIB Task Force were also identified as examples that would align with WSSDA Board Standards specifically in the area of community engagement. 

The board reviewed and discussed the creation of Board Communication Protocols, which compile existing communication practices and protocols outlined in board policy, procedures, and law, and are aligned with the Open Public Meetings Act (OPMA). These protocols clarify internal and external communication expectations for board members, ensure OPMA compliance, and incorporate best practices recommended by WSSDA.

It was clarified that board protocols are signed as a reflection of the board’s collective commitments. The board discussed the legal implications of communication practices, the importance of aligning with policy and OPMA requirements, and how the protocols can also serve as a helpful reference for the community to understand board communication practices.

The board reviewed the draft protocol document and will revisit it in preparation for a discussion at the next board meeting. Additionally, the board discussed implementing liaison roles, such as a communications officer or liaison to civic organizations, and expressed interest in creating more opportunities for the board president to delegate responsibilities.

The board reviewed the Washington State School Directors’ Association (WSSDA) Board Standards and confirmed that the focus for the 2025–2026 school year will remain on Standard 3 (Accountability) and Standard 5 (Community Engagement), as these align closely with the district's and board’s goals. The board also reviewed the upcoming professional learning schedule and discussed aligning training opportunities with these focus standards.

In addition, the board reviewed the updated district strategic plan goals and success indicators, previously discussed during the Annual School Board Retreat. Key areas of focus for school improvement plan goals include improving student attendance—particularly reducing chronic absenteeism in grades 5, 8, and 9—and closing achievement gaps in English Language Arts (ELA) and math for target student populations.

The board also discussed the importance of increasing school meal application completion rates. They noted that a higher number of completed applications can support schools in qualifying for free meals for all students, which is especially significant given the financial impact of meal costs on families. The board acknowledged the sensitivity of conversations around school meal eligibility and emphasized the need for thoughtful communication.