School board has quick meeting

Members of the Wahkiakum School District board of directors had a quick, light meeting on November 20.

Superintendent Bob Garrett said there was no new or old business to consider, only staff reports and approval of meeting minutes, volunteers and supplemental contracts for coaches, and for two new policies.

Wahkiakum High School Principal Stephanie Leitz reported that high school staff are using the free hour of the Thursday late start for collaboration. Teachers are working in two groups, math and English/language arts. Both are looking at assessments to determine which students need support and challenges.

The student council has approved a new club for teen advocacy, Leitz said. It will look into issues such as suicide prevention, bullying, cultural change, and so on.

The issues "are here in our community and shouldn't be ignored," Leitz said.

Garrett reported enrollment has increased from 403.4 full-time student equivalents (FTEs) to 415.2 FTEs in November. Enrollment is the basis of state funding.

High school enrollment is up from 144.6 to 151.2, and enrollment in grades 7-8 is up from 70.9 to 72.