The most pressing topic at the meeting was the discussion surrounding the impending expiration of the 2015 technology levy. Multiple presenters underscored the necessity of renewing and potentially increasing this funding through a referendum. The original levy, approved in 2015, provided essential technology access in schools, generating over $9.1 million annually. The board emphasized that without voter approval in the upcoming November election, the district would face financial challenges, including a potential annual budget reduction of the same amount.

The presentation detailed the evolution of technology in education over the last decade, highlighting the need for updated funding to meet new educational demands. Components funded by the levy include student devices, classroom hardware, secure internet access, and network infrastructure. The board stressed the importance of these resources in fostering personalized learning and preparing students for a digital future. Additionally, a recent survey by the Morris Leatherman Company revealed strong community support for the technology levy, with 85% in favor of renewal and 64% advocating for increased funds.

Beyond technology, the meeting delved into the district’s AP program, with presentations on the results and implications of AP courses. The district offers 28 AP subjects, with nearly 2,872 students enrolled and over 5,500 exams taken. The discussion explored the benefits of AP courses, including their correlation with college readiness and higher graduation rates. It was noted that AP courses are now accessible to ninth-grade students, a shift prompted by legislative changes to civics education requirements.

Concerns were raised about the preparedness of ninth graders for the rigorous AP World History exam. This exam consists of a multiple-choice section and a free-response section, including a Document-Based Question (DBQ) and a long essay question. Despite concerns, the district’s performance surpassed both state and global averages. The board acknowledged the need for ongoing professional development for teachers and emphasized the importance of encouraging diverse student participation in AP courses.

Another highlight of the meeting was the discussion around the opening of Emerald Trail Elementary School, the district’s 20th elementary school. Principal Chad Ryber provided an overview of the establishment process, which began in 2021 to address rapid growth in the southern portion of the district. A voter-approved referendum facilitated the school’s development, aimed at alleviating overcrowding. The school’s design reflects community values of sustainability and innovation, with features such as geothermal wells for energy efficiency and collaborative learning spaces.

Community engagement played a role in the school’s development, from the selection of its name to the planning of its mission and values. Events leading up to the school’s opening, including a staff picnic and family meet-and-greet, fostered strong relationships among families and staff. The school is set to open with approximately 640 students, close to its capacity of 650 to 700, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony planned for August 20, 2025.

The board also addressed other topics, such as the positive feedback from the community regarding the district’s performance and an AI committee’s efforts to prepare students and teachers for evolving technology dynamics. The board discussed the resolution to call for a technology levy referendum during the upcoming November election, proposing an increase in the tax rate to support various technological needs. Additionally, they reviewed changes to admission charges for school events to address rising costs.