The Warren School Board convened for its regular monthly meeting on Monday, December 9, with Board President Joey Cathey presiding. The meeting covered a range of important topics, from financial reports to personnel matters, and included updates from the district's leadership.
President Joey Cathey opened the meeting by seeking approval for the minutes of the previous month's meeting. Once approved, the board proceeded to hear the financial report for the month. After reviewing the details, the board voted to approve the financial report, affirming the district’s ongoing fiscal health.
Brunson Elementary School Principal Anna Miller provided an update on student performance data gathered from various software tools, including iReady. Miller shared insights into the latest testing results, highlighting areas of strength as well as opportunities for improvement. The data presented was used to inform decision-making around instructional strategies and student support efforts across the district.
The board moved to approve a contract disclosure for the district to purchase pizza from Simple Simon’s, a local restaurant. The motion was made and passed.
As part of the meeting agenda, the board discussed the possibility of reorganizing its leadership. After a brief deliberation, a motion was made to retain the current board structure, with all positions remaining the same. The motion was approved unanimously.
Following a brief executive session, the board returned to address various personnel matters. Several key staffing decisions were made. Lucy Woodard was hired as the new second-grade teacher, filling an important position within the district. The board accepted the resignation of Anne Yepes, the history teacher at Warren High School, and of Sandy Hollingsworth, the Parental Involvement Coordinator. The board approved a pay increase for Simone Adair. All personnel matters were voted on and passed, ensuring the continued smooth operation of the district.
Superintendent Brian Cornish delivered his monthly report, beginning with a highlight from the senior class. Cornish shared that seniors had recently made two separate tours of Potlatch. The students were impressed with the size and scope of the operation, and Cornish noted that it provided valuable insight into potential career opportunities for students in the region. Cornish also provided updates on upcoming events. The district will dismiss for the holiday break on December 23, with students returning to school on January 8, 2025. Teachers will return a few days earlier, on January 6, for professional development sessions.
The superintendent also addressed the issue of the old Eastside building, which the district has been considering what to do with for some time. After reviewing the costs of demolition, which are estimated at $350,000-$400,000, the board made a motion to auction off the building. The stipulation was that the buyer must demolish the structure within two years. The motion passed, paving the way for the property to be sold.
The meeting adjourned with no further business. The board remains committed to ensuring the best possible education for the students of Warren and looks forward to continuing its work in the coming months.
The next Warren School Board meeting is scheduled for Monday, January 13, 2025.
