Superintendent reports small enrollment decline; board discusses staffing, online options and grant-funded vaping/chemical-education position

Superintendent reported the district is down eight students compared with February figures and outlined projections showing lower enrollment next year as larger classes graduate and smaller kindergarten cohorts enter. He warned the district will likely need to consider program and staffing adjustments in the coming year if enrollment continues to fall.

On staffing, administrators recommended keeping four second-grade sections next year (projected about 75 students) to keep class sizes near 18–19. The board approved that recommendation unanimously but noted it could require deficit spending (superintendent estimated a minimum $70,000 added cost for an additional section) and asked staff to monitor attrition and report back during budget planning.

The superintendent also updated the board on two grant efforts: an SRO grant (board authorized pursuit) and grant work with the county to fund a position focused on chemical-use education (including vaping). He said the county would contribute opioid-settlement funds and the district would seek ATSIS funds to support the proposed position; if successful, the role would offer follow-up education for students rather than relying solely on disciplinary measures.

Board members asked about exit data for families leaving the district; principals reported some follow-up calls and that reasons vary (moves, online options, family choice). The superintendent said leadership is exploring the district’s own online program to retain some families who have otherwise left for virtual options.

The superintendent noted vandalism to recently opened tennis courts (rock scuffs and burn marks suspected from fireworks) and discussed considering cameras or other deterrents. The board asked staff to investigate options and possible insurance implications.

Next procedural steps include continued monitoring of enrollment, follow-up on potential grants, and budget discussion ahead of next year’s staffing decisions.