A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to updates from the Community Task Force, which had formulated three guiding principles for evaluating facility proposals: future-focused education, operational sustainability, and a united WCA community. Former board members contributed insights, with a notable emphasis on prioritizing student needs over local interests. Kent Marshall, a former board chair, posed the question, “What can we not afford not to do?” underscoring financial considerations in decision-making. The task force also received demographic and financial presentations, with a demographer set to present a detailed report on January 19. This report is anticipated to provide crucial insights into operational expenses as the board considers facility proposals.

The board discussed student proficiency and growth, particularly in literacy and math, expressing interest in monitoring growth data and trends. The current reading proficiency scores were acknowledged, with math scores reflecting a broader state trend of being comparatively higher. Board members highlighted the importance of evaluating progress over time, noting that even students in the lower range might be making strides due to effective instruction. It was suggested that continued monitoring of growth data is essential, especially with new curriculum changes aimed at improving scores over time.

In terms of professional development, the board detailed training for both paraprofessionals and certified staff, focusing on attendance and positive childhood experiences, particularly in the context of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs). This initiative aims to improve student achievement through building positive experiences. Additionally, the leadership team is exploring programs to enhance student achievement, including “Check and Connect,” a behavioral analysis and response system, and the “High Reliability Schools” framework, which could potentially be evaluated further through site visits.

The board also recognized Chelsea Gser, a business teacher, for achieving Career and Technical Education (CTE) approval for the business program, enabling access to CTE Levy and Perkins Grant funds. This approval is significant in extending the district’s reach in career and technical education, complementing existing programs. Student achievements were also celebrated, including TriAA and Excel Award winners and commendations for the one-act play team, which secured accolades in recent competitions.

Cybersecurity was another key topic, as there has been a rise in malicious emails targeting school districts. The board discussed implemented security measures, such as Sandbox technology, and the necessity of ongoing staff education to counteract these threats. A proposal to incorporate community education into staff training regarding cyber threats was also highlighted, emphasizing the value of strengthening school-community relationships.

Financial discussions included a presentation from the business manager, who reported that revenue tracking was on course, with federal and local revenues noted to be on track. However, challenges in food service revenue and community education, particularly preschool programs, were acknowledged. The need for improved financial management in daycare services was emphasized, with discussions about sustaining daycare facilities requiring at least 50 students. Collaborations with local communities and businesses were suggested to address child care challenges affecting both the district and the broader community.

A projected deficit of approximately $63,000 was noted, highlighting the financial impact of transitioning from universal free meals to a direct certification approach. The Governor’s proposal of a “hold harmless” clause was mentioned as a potential, albeit insufficient, increase in funding contingent on legislative approval. The board expressed the necessity of communicating financial impacts to legislators.

Discussions on vehicle budget allocations suggested establishing a smaller, consistent budget line item to prevent large, unpredictable expenses. A vehicle replacement strategy was proposed to maintain a steady budget, benefiting from trade-in values before vehicles reach high mileage.

As the meeting concluded, the board reviewed policy updates, discussed the 2025-2026 school calendar, and emphasized the importance of gathering feedback from parents and staff. Acknowledgment was given to a $62,000 refund from the special education cooperative, attributed to a policy returning surplus funds to member districts, which provided some positive financial news amid broader challenges.