LWVSJ Observer Corps* Notes: SJI School Board, May 29, 2024

Superintendent Fred Woods and other board members recognized Aaron Orozco for his excellent job this year as the ASB representative to the school board. Aaron will be heading to Washington State University in the fall. Aaron reported that it has been a busy few weeks with Prom, Girls State track and tennis and AP exams. School finishes on June 14. Superintendent Woods introduced Senior Mia Germain and Sophomore Vera Schoultz who will jointly represent the student body next year.

Superintendent Woods reported that the Transition to Kindergarten program is on track to begin this fall with 17 kids enrolled. Sarah Werling-Sandwith has been hired to run this new program. Sarah will leave her position directing the Head Start Program and will be stepping down from the school board as she cannot work for the school district and be on the board. A search is underway to appoint a replacement to fill out the term until the general election in November of 2025.

Brock Hauck, Athletics and Capital Projects Director presented a 4-year plan for capital improvements at the schools. He discussed two specific projects, siding and painting at the middle and high school and the high school maintenance shed by the STEM building that need addressing in the first year. Assuming successful bids are received both projects would begin in the summer of 2025. Projects for this summer will complete capital spending approved in the prior levy. Brock also provided a detailed budget for all high school sports in 2024-2025.

The Stocker Foundation has provided a 75K grant for the preschool program for next year. Jose Domenech presented the student enrollment and budget numbers for May, and both are within budget for the year. The 2024-2025 budget will be finished and ready for board review by the June board meeting.

The League of Women Voters, a nonpartisan organization encourages informed participation in government. The Observer Corps attends and takes notes at government meetings to expand public understanding of public policy and decisions. The notes do not necessarily reflect the views of the League or its members.