Wahkiakum School Board looks at alternative learning

The Wahkiakum School District Board of Education convened on March 18 and approved the Superintendent's contract, Dr. Ralph Watkins, beginning 7/1/2025-6/30/28. The board accepted the resignations of coaches Jarrod Hague and Andrea Miller and approved replacements Brad Moon as baseball coach and Heidi Snyder as assistant softball coach.

The last piece of old business was the first reading of Policy 2413 on equivalent credit opportunities. Principal Leitz introduced the first reading of a policy concerning alternative education pathways. This policy provides students flexible pathways to earn graduation credits through alternative educational experiences. Principal Leitz provided a comprehensive overview of the multilevel benefits of this policy. The key areas identified were accreditation data, dual credit & attendance, and students with disabilities. Board member Bobby Stefan pointed out that clear guidelines should be in place so the expectations are clear in earning alternative credits; the policy proposes competency-based credit, allowing students to earn credits by demonstrating mastery of content. This approach offers flexibility and opportunities for credit recovery. Students may earn between 0.5 and 1 credit for demonstrated mastery, and those who pass higher-level courses may receive retroactive credit for prerequisite coursework. The three primary focus areas in the policy include math improvement, college and career readiness, and providing a safe, supportive school environment. To ensure clarity, the board discussed refining policy definitions and implementing contracts to standardize credit attainment. Principal Leitz highlighted that the staff is committed to making these improvements and is working diligently to address them in their professional learning community.

Stefanie Leitz presented the high school accreditation plan, providing an overview of data supporting the school improvement plan. Based on Smarter Balance assessments in English and math, the school's success score increased from 7 in 2022 to 8 and has remained steady. The district’s outstanding achievement award recognized growth over time, with a 100 percent graduation rate in recent years and a 90 percent regular attendance rate. Additional factors contributing to the score include dual-credit opportunities through the College in the High School program.

The data is utilized in Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) to refine instructional methods, with current efforts focused on mathematics, college and career readiness, and school safety. A recent student survey revealed that 94.3 percent of students favored the four-day school week, and no one opposed it. Additionally, the study identified areas for intervention to support student well-being. Accreditation efforts have led to the establishment of SMART goals, post-secondary planning, and initiatives to enhance student safety, engagement, and support. The accreditation team will visit the school on March 20 to assess progress and provide feedback on the district’s future direction. The board approved overnight field trips for students to attend leadership development programs, including the CISPUS Outdoor School and the Key Club Convention.

Fourth and fifth graders visited the Columbia River Maritime Museum, where they engaged in a learning lab on building underwater ROVs. The trip was funded by a WSU grant covering transportation and entry fees. The elementary school hosted a Read Across America assembly featuring a masked reader activity to celebrate Dr. Seuss’s birthday. Looking ahead, the PTO Bingo night is scheduled for March 27 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. The event includes a gift basket raffle and silent auction, with proceeds supporting field trip transportation and classroom supplies. Middle School leadership initiatives include students installing a “Home of the MULES” sign on the school’s fence line to boost school spirit. Leadership efforts also focus on student success planning and accountability, where staff works closely with students to set academic and personal goals.

The district financial update shared that it has spent 56.71 percent of its annual budget and remained under budget for 58.33 percent of the fiscal year. A motion was passed to update district financial accounts, replacing former superintendent Brent Freeman’s name with Business Manager Sue Ellyson. Enrollment stands at 397 students, slightly above the budgeted 392. Palmer discussed Title IX policy updates and funding, emphasizing that state funding is the primary financial resource, with limited federal funding impact. The Title IX policy updates are currently on hold due to conflicting guidance between federal and state requirements. Updates will be given to the board as the latest information is presented.

Secretary Sue Ellyson provided a fiscal update, budget status report, and audit update. February expenditures were: General Fund: $88,478.80, Associated Student Body (ASB) Fund: $9,480.66 and Payroll: $433,868.17. District Fund Balances: General Fund: $111,523,000, ASB Fund: $243,000, Capital Fund: $293,418.51, Transportation Fund: $106,202.06.

The next Wahkiakum School District Board of Education meeting is scheduled for April 22.