Naselle Grays-River Valley School Board Meeting

The Naselle-Grays River Valley School Board met for their monthly meeting on Jan. 21.

During Public Comment, Luke Gardner expressed his desires regarding the selection of a new superintendent stating, “Please choose wisely with a new administrator lead. Please look for someone with good communication skills. Please find one who will be truthful and transparent, and can communicate.”

Roman Garcia, an eighth grader, bravely addressed the school board with his request. He said, “Today I am coming before the school board to ask that myself and any other eighth grader be allowed to join the high school wrestling roster, which I know isn’t allowed. I have participated in most of the practices and I have also been to all the meets.”

Lisa Nelson shared the administration’s rationale why middle schoolers hadn’t been included. With the timetable the wrestling program started and the speed at which it was implemented, the priority was made for high school participants. The board expressed their regret but denied the request since the season is nearly over.

There was a brief update on the stadium light retrofit project from Lisa Nelson. Referees have commented that the lighting is substandard. A test of the field lighting was conducted. Recommendations vary by website, but the field is significantly dimmer at the end zone and 20 yard line areas compared to other sections of the field. The NFHS (National Federation of High School Sports) recommends 30-50 FC for high school and amateur leagues. The stadium’s highest FC is 27 and the lowest is 13 at the one end zone. The electrical panel boxes are worn and need to be replaced. Lisa is in the process of seeking bids to upgrade the panel boxes and replace the lights on the standards. By replacing the lights, they will get a rebate from Pacific County PUD.

There was an acknowledgement of the resignation of Natasha Crater as the legislative representative for the board. After a brief discussion, Amy Hunt was elected to be the new legislative representative through June 2026.

Principal Justin Laine gave an update on the math program. There have been lower math scores, particularly in middle school. They are working to improve on individualized student learning plans, keeping class sizes smaller, and utilizing paraeducators.

Superintendent Lisa Nelson reported an increase in enrollment in January to 311. Lisa also reported the renovation of the STEM/music wing has started and progress is being made. Demolition of the rooms is finished and the space is now wide open.

Interviews for the new superintendent will begin on Feb. 1 at 8:30 a.m. and Feb. 11, 12 and 13 at 6:30 p.m. in the school library and are open to the public.

The next meeting will be held Feb. 18, at 6:30 pm in the school library. Meetings are also available via Zoom.