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The ISD 197 School Board had a short meeting covering board goals, an update on the American Indian Education Program, and a closed session on contract negotiation strategy.
School Board Goals
Several board members reported on progress made on the school board’s goals for 2023.
- Successful initiatives: A book study, video recaps of board meetings, implementing an equity policy, and exploring a legislative action committee (this was explored though they opted not to form a separate group and will continue that work through the Planning Committee).
- In progress initiatives: Tracking and encouraging board attendance at community events and a plan to expand recognition of student achievements.
- Incomplete initiatives: A plan to help board members better understand teacher professional development didn’t come together due to scheduling conflicts and the site-based nature of professional development.
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American Indian Education Program
The district’s new American Indian cultural liaison, Nell Berri, gave an update on the American Indian Education Program. The state requires districts with numbers of Native American students above certain thresholds to provide additional services. A few highlights:
- More students: The number of students has grown from 78 two years ago to 91 this year.
- More money: The state has increased the funding formula, with the district getting about $75,000 as opposed to about $40,000 in previous years.
- Full time: The cultural liaison position is now full time.
- Land acknowledgement: Berri is working on a land acknowledgement that could be used from class rooms to board meetings. It’s in the early draft stages and will likely go before the American Indian Parent Advisory Committee and the Equity Committee, as well as getting community feedback, before officially coming to the board.
- Language: While the district currently doesn’t offer any Native American languages, state law does require districts to offer it when more than 100 American Indian students are enrolled (currently at 91).
Contract Negotiation
Prior to the meeting the school board held a closed session to discuss strategy for the upcoming contract negotiations. About 20 district teachers attended the regular meeting and the union president made a comment to the Board, saying the union expects “bold leadership” to address what they describe as a salary schedule that’s not competitive with surrounding districts.
Engage
- More: Agendas and minutes for ISD 197 School Board meetings are available online.
Coverage of ISD 197 School Board meetings happens thanks to the support of our members and our successful member drive.
