Presenter: Pam Brantner, Sunnyside Elementary School Showcase

The Board had the opportunity to observe Sunnyside Elementary's Guiding Coalition in action as staff engaged in collaborative discussions focused on student data and intervention. The session highlighted the school's commitment to using data-driven decision-making to support student learning and achievement. Board members observed Sunnyside staff analyzing student progress, identifying areas for growth, and developing instructional strategies to address student needs. Sunnyside is continuing to draft their Model PLC application for review and submission.

Presenter: Debbie Crabtree, Pullman High School Principal

Principal Crabtree provided a summary from the previous school year which included enrollment for students online, the breakdown of courses and subjects being offered, and the number of students that completed courses and gained credits. FTE has increased for the program which can be attributed to seniors and running start, specifically for the course titled Career Choices. 

The Board reviewed the presentation for the upcoming Community Listening Session, which will focus on Budget Information and Priorities. Board members provided feedback on the content and format to ensure the information is clear, transparent, and accessible for community members. The board discussed the need to ensure the format of the listening session be shared so those who would like to attend are aware that the format will be presentation based.

The Board engaged in a discussion on graduation regalia following feedback from district administrators, high school ASB student representatives, and the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging (DEIB) Task Force. The conversation focused on whether to revise the current board policy and procedure. Students expressed interest in recognizing event participation and leadership roles in athletics and activities during graduation, as well as exploring the possibility of decorating caps, though concerns were raised about appropriateness and monitoring. 

Administrators noted the existing student voice in the ceremony, the complexity of managing additional recognition cords, and the equity and access concerns associated with extracurricular participation. They emphasized the importance of maintaining the ceremony's focus on graduation itself while acknowledging the workload such changes would create for staff. The Board discussed options for consideration, including revising policy or exploring alternative ways to celebrate student accomplishments outside of what students wear at graduation. The Board was not prepared to make immediate changes to the current board policy, but there was interest in exploring the expansion of recognition of tribal regalia beyond U.S.-recognized tribes and additional avenues for student recognition.