The Lebanon Community School Board covered a packed agenda during its Nov. 14, including decisions on the Oregon School Boards Association (OSBA) elections, reviewing the student data analysis, and updating alternative education programs.
Budget Concerns Amid Declining Enrollment
The board discussed declining enrollment, a statewide trend exacerbated locally by the expansion of the Sand Ridge Charter School. Projections for 2025-2026 show a drop of 110 students, raising concerns about financial stability.
Superintendent Highlights Data Day
Superintendent Jennifer Meckley provided a report on the district’s “Data Day,” a mandated analysis of several data points schools are required to provide. Lebanon is in the second year of using the new Synergy program to track key performance metrics.
Among the findings:
- Enrollment: 17.9% of students are on Individualized Education Plans (IEPs), totaling 708 students.
- Attendance: Chronic absenteeism remains a challenge, affecting roughly 35% of students, but is on par with the rest of Oregon
- Behavioral Issues: Kindergarteners have the highest referral rates, possibly linked to limited preschool access and pandemic disruptions.
The district has introduced a new literacy assessment and plans to focus on setting clear educational goals and fostering a positive assessment culture. Supt. Meckley reiterated that while test scores matter, “humans are the most important thing.”
Alternative Education Programs Address Student Needs
Brandon Wiest, director of Alternative Education, provided an overview of programs designed to support students facing behavioral and academic challenges.
- Emotional Growth Centers: Serving K-8 students with significant behavioral issues, these centers aim to reintegrate students into general education.
- CLIMB and BRIDGE Programs: For students in grades six through12 who have been expelled, these programs offer structured environments to support reentry into mainstream education.
- Ralston Academy: Tailored for juniors and seniors, the academy emphasizes graduation readiness. Notably, 50+ students have graduated annually for the past three years, with six alumni now working in the district.
Classroom Expansion Saves Money, Teaches Skills
Seven Oak Middle School’s classroom expansion project is nearing completion. To address a costly issue with exposed air conditioning units, the district opted for a creative solution: staff and students designed and fabricated protective cages. This approach saved 84% of the quoted cost while providing valuable hands-on experience for students.
OSBA Elections and Caucus Votes
The board discussed and voted on OSBA election matters, including caucus representatives, regional representatives, and proposed bylaw amendments.
A significant portion of the discussion focused on two candidates for position 10 on the OSBA board: Luhui Whitebear, an Oregon State University professor of Indigenous Studies, and Clyde Rood, a member of the Lebanon School Board.
Whitebear, who is running for a regional seat and as a representative of the Color Caucus, emphasized her collaborative approach and understanding of marginalized voices, saying, “I know what it feels like to not be heard.”
Rood, who was unexpectedly called upon to speak, focused on building bridges and fostering understanding. However, the board’s support for his candidacy was tepid. Despite nominating him for OSBA board position 10, no board member seconded the nomination, forcing him to nominate himself. Ultimately, the board abstained from voting for the position, effectively sidelining Rood.
The board also abstained on voting for the creation of a Pride Caucus seat, but did vote to adopt the amendments to the OSBA bylaws, adopt a new dues schedule, and place Soren Rounds for a legislative policy committee position.
Community and School Spirit
Highlights of the meeting included updates on student initiatives, such as a mentoring program supported by a $500 mini-grant and a successful Veterans Day breakfast at Pioneer School. The event featured interviews with veterans by fifth grade students and a class performance.
The board adjourned without public comments, wrapping up discussions on a broad range of issues critical to the district’s future.