WLWV School Board Briefs
Dec. 4, 2017
The West Linn-Wilsonville School Board held a regular meeting on Monday, Dec. 4. The following are select highlights from that meeting.
Board Thanks WLWV School Psychologists
November 13-17 was School Psychologist Awareness Month, giving appreciation for school psychologists around the nation. The Board thanked the five staff members for their commitment to serving all WLWV students.
"Our school psychologists are on the front lines of system assessment, developing self-efficacy for students and developing relationships and partnerships with members of the community," Spencer-Iiams said.
"I want to thank you personally for the work you do reaching out and creating that bridge between school and home," said Vice Chair Chelsea Martin. "I know there is a huge amount of emotional labor that goes into this work that is impossible to quantify. I want to give my appreciation for the very important work."
Board Receives Updated District Equity Plan, Amends Two Policies
The Board received the school district's updated District Equity Action Plan, which is utilized by all WLWV schools. The purpose of the district's Equity Action Plan is to articulate our equity-related priorities for the coming year in alignment with the WLWV District goals, school-based Equity Teams, and overall mission of the district: "How do we create learning communities for the greatest thinkers and most thoughtful people...for the world?"
While the district doesn't collect, report, or monitor the immigration status of WLWV students, the Board wanted Policy JB to clearly state that students won't be discriminated against for any reason. To make that message clear, the Board added "immigration status" to Policy JB, so that it reads: "Every student of the district will be given equal educational opportunities regardless of age, sex, sexual orientation, race, religion, color, national origin, immigration status, disability, marital status or capability."
Policy EEACC, meanwhile, provides regulations for student conduct on school buses and Type 10 School Activity Vehicles used for transporting students. The Board added the following paragraph to the policy: "Board Policy JFCF is fully applicable to students' conduct when riding the school bus between school and home and to-and-from district-sponsored activities."
Board Recognizes Long-time Attorney Tom McPherson
"No question is ever too small, and everything matters. Your wisdom and approach has helped immensely over the years, and for that I want to thank you," said Aaron Downs, Assistant Superintendent of Secondary Schools. "You are a calming influence in the time of immediate need, and a great researcher and communicator."
"You look for fairness, always, and look at how all patrons and entities can find a win in every situation," added Operations Director Tim Woodley. "You've provided wisdom and leadership, and you've always provided impeccable advice. You're a valued friend and partner."
High School Reports
High School students from West Linn, Wilsonville, and Arts and Technology high schools shared relevant news and upcoming events with the School Board.
West Linn High School's Shay Hicks informed the Board that WLHS is coming off a string of successes. WLHS fall sports teams and athletes experienced many achievements in recent months, while the drama department's production of "Spamalot" was the second-highest grossing play in the school's history. West Linn High is also in the middle of a toy drive for children, as well as the Mr. and Ms. WLHS pageant that kicked off this week.
Art Tech's Tyler Corbin, meanwhile, shared recent news of his own with the Board. He said that Art Tech is currently planning a spirit week for staff and students, and that the school is looking forward to their upcoming community luncheon. Tyler also told the Board that Art Tech was gearing up for its first Blood Drive, which is scheduled for Jan. 16.
Board Stays Active in the Community
Language Learning in WLWV Schools
She also updated the Board with the most recent developments surrounding the district's Dual Language Program, which is set to spread to the middle school level starting in the 2018-19 school year. Soisson explained that the district's research around language learning is always ongoing, but that staff is pleased with recent growth of both English Language Learners and the world language skills of all WLWV students. For more information about language learning, go to https://www.wlwv.k12.or.us/domain/41.
Upcoming Meetings and Dates
School Board Meeting: Jan. 8; 6 p.m.; 22210 SW Stafford Road, Tualatin
Work Session: Jan. 22; 6 p.m.; 22210 SW Stafford Road, Tualatin
About West Linn-Wilsonville
Website: https://www.wlwv.k12.or.us/
Location: 22210 SW Stafford Rd, Tualatin, OR, United States
Phone: 503-673-7000
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WLWVschools/
Twitter: @WLWVdistrict