Jan Mitchell, LWV Observer
Absent – Diane Cirksena
Several people used the public comment opportunity to urge the Board to provide a class for 3rd year study of Mandarin Chinese, despite the comparatively low enrollment. Low enrollment electives usually mean larger class sizes in other courses, and that poses questions of staffing and equity. After extensive discussion, the Board approved providing German I and Chinese III, funding them from the Contingency Fund. The Board intends to explore possible future solutions for this issue.
The Board also heard from the Sibley Project planners, and the plans for the remodeling and expansion of the building can be seen on the District website.
The Dental Budget for 2009-2010 was presented. This self-insured plan has worked well, stabilizing costs for the District and the employees. Sufficient reserves mean no rate increase for next year.
The Board unanimously approved the Resolution Discontinuing and Reducing Educational Programs and Positions, with modifications as described above.
Announcements included:
-History Day competition by Middle School students
-Svea Drentlaw advancing to state competition in Speech
-Appreciation for the League of Women Voters program on education issues
-The good performances at the District Orchestra Concert
