In a recent session, board approved free admission to school activities for all Pre-K through 12th-grade students for the 2024-25 school year. This decision follows discussions about the financial implications and the logistical concerns of allowing free access. It was noted that while the revenue from ticket sales increased slightly last year, there was a significant rise in concession sales. Students in Pre-K through Grade 5 will need to be accompanied by an adult, while older students can enter with their school IDs.

Another issue was the allocation of teaching staff, particularly in the third grade. Superintendent Kevin Grover presented a plan to manage class sizes by moving a second-grade teacher to the third grade. This adjustment aims to balance the number of students per class without increasing the overall staff count. The board discussed the necessity of this move, considering the current and projected enrollment numbers. Grover emphasized the need for flexibility, with a plan B ready if second-grade enrollment increases unexpectedly.

The board also approved the hiring of Tina Hovin as the new assistant principal of New Heights Elementary and Dar Omang as the American Indian Education Coordinator. The latter role previously included responsibilities for achievement integration, which will now be managed by the student services department.

Additionally, a resolution to limit open enrollment for third grade was discussed and ultimately rejected. The board members agreed with the superintendent’s recommendation to keep open enrollment available, citing manageable class sizes and the potential for additional families moving into the district.