School Board Retreats to Set Priorities

— by Ed Sutton —

The Orcas Island School District Board and administration met on Saturday, Oct. 10 in the afternoon to discuss District priorities for the immediate future. The retreat is a yearly opportunity for them to discuss at some length the opportunities and challenges facing the District.

Following the retreat, OISD Superintendent Eric Webb said that there was a consensus among the participants as to the priorities moving forward. That consensus saw:
1) an opportunity for expanded athletic facilities that may be funded in part by a $1 million donation;
2) a need to evaluate the Special Education program;
3) the need to assure that the District is in compliance with State requirements regarding the OASIS alternative education program.

In a separate interview with Board member Scott Lancaster, he said that he agrees with Webb that the OASIS program needs closer scrutiny. Lancaster also hopes that there is continued focus on the K-12 educational program, given that pending retirements will result in some turnover among the teaching staff. Further, Lancaster wants to continue the effort to strengthen the District’s financial condition.

At this time, the District has about 5.5% of the budget in cash reserves with a target of some 7%, which it has identified as prudent financial practice to protect against unexpected expenses.

Board member Chris Sutton, also interviewed separately, concurred that the best strategy for the District at this time is to consolidate the gains from the recent $11.9 Bond remodel project, and to allow the new Superintendent the opportunity to implement his direction of the Orcas Island School District.