Token of appreciation was presented to Board

DAYTON–Elementary student representatives made a show of their appreciation to the Dayton School Board at the regular meeting on January 18 for School Board Appreciation Month. The Board approved to extend the contract with Rich Stewart as Interim Superintendent for another school year, and the retirement of long-time Dayton teacher Audrey Franklin. Public comment was heard from someone with concern about dissolving the athletic combine and from a local pastor to appeal the Board to vote to protect educators when teaching about Christianity. Reports were provided by Athletic Director Sam Korslund, the administration, and Head Custodian John Delp.

Teacher Dawn McGhan led student representatives from each elementary school grade in presenting a handmade token of appreciation to each board member to recognize them during School Board Appreciation Month. The presenters were Miles Wendt from kindergarten who also led the flag salute, Waverly Davis from first grade (pictured presenting to Director Zac Fabian), Lola Wendt from second grade, Charlotte Billow from third grade, Phoenix Stapleton from fourth grade and Christian Souza from fifth grade. McGhan pointed out that each Board Member present graduated from Dayton High School. "Thank you for very much, truly for your dedication," said McGhan. "I do want to invite all of you, please come to the classroom. That's where the magic happens each and every day."

The Board approved to extend the contract for Interim Superintendent Rich Stewart by another year. Stewart explained the extension will allow for more continuity as the district moves forward. Also approved was the retirement and resignation of Audrey Franklin at the end of the school year. She has taught in the Dayton School District for 29 years. Stewart said, "I want to thank her, and I know this was a difficult decision for her."

During the public comment portion of the meeting one person expressed concern about the decision to dissolve the athletic combine. After looking back on the number of participants from each school the last few years, she concluded that there will not be enough athletes going forward to form their own teams. She attributed the dissolution as a failure by all parties involved. She asked the Board to reconsider. McCowen answered that he is available to talk with any one directly to address their concerns.

Local pastor Jeff Milsten made his third recent appearance at a School Board meeting to speak about teaching Christianity in the schools. While he has been told that students are taught about it along with other world religions, he specifically asked the Board to vote to protect teachers when teaching about it from being fired or sued. Director Aneesha Dieu replied that because they are already allowed to teach it, there is no need for the vote.

Athletic Director Sam Korslund reported that seasons for the middle school girls' basketball and the middle and high school wrestling are underway. The high school coaches for all sports will be working with middle school and elementary school coaches to support and grow the programs by developing skills in student-athletes as they move through grades. He said in his newsletter update that they have plans to provide uniforms and equipment needed for all athletics for the purpose of returning "to community-wide Bulldog pride."

Elementary School Principal Amy Cox emphasized the continued need and demand of school counselor Caitlin Patterson. She advocated for the hiring of additional counselors. The school honored the Columbia County Sheriff's Department for Law Enforcement Appreciation Day on January 9 by making thank you cards and writing letters that the kindergarten classes gave to them at the appreciation event at Moose Creek Café and Bakery.

Professional development continues for secondary staff to equip them to work for good outcomes for students and get accreditation to support students for academic excellence.

Parents were sent a mid-year progress report including information about tutoring and credit recovery, if needed. The newly offered Drama Class performed a murder mystery for fellow secondary students. To prepare, they rehearsed and put together a set and costumes.

Superintendent Rich Stewart said in his report that he and legislative representative Aneesha Deui attended a legislative presentation by Dan Steele which was hosted by ESD 123. State legislation for the current session for education looks hopeful for transportation, early learning, special education, and support staff. He suggested a few firms for the Board to consider for support in making a capital levy or bond request. He also recently met with someone from ESD 123 and was given recommendations of CTE courses to offer to high school students. He recommended a snow make-up day on March 3 for a half-day session which was approved.

Head Custodian John Delp also reported that the heat exchanger was replaced over the winter break. He told the Board about the need to replace locks around campus due to being worn out and causing keys not to work. He said that three more exterior doors also need replaced.