March 9, 2026 Business Board Meeting Minutes

MINUTES OF THE SCHOOL BOARD OF DISTRICT NO. 40,
YAMHILL COUNTY, McMINNVILLE, OREGON

The Board Business Meeting was held March 9, 2026, both in person and via Zoom at the
McMinnville School District Office, 800 NE Lafayette Ave., McMinnville OR 97128

The link was https://msd40.zoom.us/j/215496199

Provisional Minutes-Not Board Approved

At 6:30 p.m., the Board of Directors of McMinnville School District opened the board business meeting in Regular Session. The meeting was called to order by Chair Larry Vollmer.

BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT
Chair Larry Vollmer
Vice-Chair Gerardo Partida
Director  Lu Ann Anderson
Director  Christine Bader
Director  Jason Bizon
Director  Abbie Warmbier

BOARD MEMBERS ABSENT
Director Jasmin Juarez

ADMINISTRATION
Kourtney Ferrua, Superintendent
Cherice Bowden, Board Secretary

AUDIENCE
Jason Hall, Hiran Amerasinghe, Emily Linnertz, Brian Crain, Lisa Jordan-Zornow, Vicky Brown, Allison Eitzen, Dave Furman, Kathi Fowler, Lauren Berg, Davey Altree. Kim Price, Scott Murphy, Cielo Tahmaseb, Stephanie Murdock, Erin Caldwell, Julie Maynard, Martha Biggs, Hilary Brittan Lack, Autumn Foster and Shelly Simonyi.  See attached. 

• 1.1  Pledge of Allegiance
  The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Ava Olson.

  1.4  Introductions and Communications
  Superintendent Ferrua welcomed Principal Price and the Memorial Elementary fourth-grade team to the meeting. She introduced the teachers Jennifer Teruya, Sarra Harris, Monse Martinez-Ponce, Rebecca Wright, and Alese Peterson.  She states that we are excited to have the Memorial Bulldogs here and she thanked them for coming.

  1.5 Budget Committee Tally
  Chair Vollmer reminded the board that they would be using a new piece of technology during the meeting. Board members were asked to log into their district Google email to access a link sent by Cherice, which would allow them to provide real-time feedback during the discussion and nominations for the upcoming Budget Committee item on the agenda.

  1.6  Review of Agenda
  There were no changes to the agenda.

  2.0 Consent Agenda
  2.1 Gifts to the District: The Board accepted with gratitude, gifts to the District:
  Quick Fix Handyman donated $1000.00 to MHS for ELD Plaque & Plates for student recognition, Rotary Club of McMinnville donated $500.00  to MHS for Sources of Strength, Northwest Logging Supply donated $200.00 to MHS for MHS Ohset Club and DMS Real Estate donated $200.00 to MHS for MHS Ohset Club.

  2.2  Approval of minutes of the February 9, 2026 Business Board Meeting and February 23, 2026 Work Session Meeting approved. 

  2.3 Personnel Actions approved.

  2.4 Staff Renewals approved.

  On motion by Director Christine Bader, seconded by Vice Chair Gerardo Partida, the Consent Agenda was approved on a unanimous vote 6-0.  Director Lu Ann Anderson – aye, Director Christine Bader – aye, Director Abbie Warmbier – aye,  Chair Larry Vollmer – aye, Vice-Chair Gerardo Partida – aye and Director Jason Bizon – aye.

  3.0 REPORTS
  The Board heard Monthly Reports

  3.1 Student Reports
  Principal Kim Price introduced Memorial Elementary’s fourth-grade team and several students who demonstrated a strategy called structured student talk, which supports the school’s goal of strengthening Tier 1 math instruction. She explained that the research-based approach encourages students to deepen their understanding of math concepts by discussing and analyzing problem-solving strategies. Teachers have received professional development on the strategy and have even hosted educators from other schools who wanted to observe it in practice.

  Teacher Jennifer Teruya described how the process typically takes place over two days. On the first day, students attempt a math problem independently and show their thinking using different strategies. The teacher then reviews the work and selects examples to discuss with the class. On the second day, students analyze the selected work together, highlighting strengths and respectfully offering suggestions for improvement. After the discussion, students revise their own work to make it clearer, more precise, and more accurate, encouraging deeper thinking for all learners.

  Students shared how discussing classmates’ work helps them better understand math problems and improve their own strategies. Board members then participated in a hands-on activity where students acted as “math coaches,” guiding them through analyzing and improving a sample fraction comparison problem. The activity allowed board members to experience the structured student talk process while students demonstrated their learning and leadership.

  3.2  Student Envoy Reports
  Student Envoys from MHS  presented the student report for MHS, highlighting their activities that are happening at the high school.  They gave an update on academics, athletics and arts/pathways.   See presentation.

   3.3 McEA
  Taire Thomson thanked board members Lu Ann Anderson and Christine Bader for visiting her classroom and encouraged all board members to continue visiting schools to better understand both the successes and challenges educators and students experience each day.

  She shared that teachers across the district are currently preparing for spring conferences, which provide an important opportunity for parents and teachers to collaborate in support of student learning. At the same time, schools are preparing for upcoming district and state assessments, which can create pressure for students and staff. She also highlighted the value of elementary specials classes such as science, Spanish, and art, noting that these classes provide meaningful opportunities for creativity and exploration.

  She also discussed a recent McMinnville Education Association event focused on classroom safety, which generated valuable discussion among educators. She noted that schools will soon begin the annual Article 18 behavior review process, allowing staff to provide feedback and recommend updates to behavior and discipline plans. Additionally, the district is planning a June training focused on behavior supports and IEP systems to help educators better meet the diverse needs of students.

  3.4  Superintendent Report
  Superintendent Ferrua recognized Classified Appreciation Week, thanking classified staff for the many ways they support students and schools, stating, “Our schools simply do not run without these important people.” She noted that “their work touches every part of our students’ experience,” from supporting students in classrooms and preparing meals to maintaining buildings, assisting families, and keeping technology running. Ferrua also highlighted student achievements, including strong winter athletics performances in wrestling, swimming, and basketball, along with the Grizzly Robotics Chronobrake team advancing to competition finals. She emphasized pride in students who are succeeding “both on the court and in the pool, but also in the classroom.” She also shared that the District Advisory Committee and the Special Education and Multilingual Learner task forces continue to review data and strategies to strengthen student outcomes, calling the work “an important community-centered approach to continuous improvement as we work to ensure every student feels connected, supported, and able to thrive.”

  She discussed districtwide engagement around the 2026–27 budget, explaining that leaders have been meeting with staff to share “transparent information about the factors driving the projected shortfall,” including enrollment trends and rising costs, and introducing decision-making tools to help prioritize core services. Addressing a public comment from February, she said she reviewed the process used for last year’s budget reductions and found the decisions “were made in a typical way, led by the superintendent and subsequent acting superintendent, with input and feedback largely from directors, administrators, and staff survey.” She clarified that “at no point… did I see any involvement by our board members,” noting that operational decisions about staffing and reductions fall under the superintendent’s responsibility while the board’s role is the final adoption of the budget. She added that “budget decisions do have a human impact,” and the district is working to increase transparency and use formula-driven decisions moving forward. She also updated the board on the state legislative session, family conferences taking place this week, and the district’s compassionate response following the loss of Patton Middle School student Zakai Motley, before noting that the upcoming spring break will hopefully provide “a meaningful time for rest and family connection.”

  The Board asked clarifying questions which Superintendent Ferrua addressed.

  3.5  Director of Fiscal Services’ Report
  Director Hall reported that district enrollment as of March 1 is 5,918 students, which is about 4.5% below the October projected enrollment and 2.5% lower than the actual October 1 count. He noted that enrollment has continued to slowly decline throughout the year and the district did not see the typical February rebound that has occurred in past years. Staff are closely monitoring enrollment trends and reviewing factors such as 10-day drop students, when a student has not attended school for 10 consecutive days and is removed from enrollment. In February, 47 students withdrew, with 43% due to 10-day drops, while others moved out of the district, enrolled in online charter schools, graduated early, moved out of state, or shifted to homeschooling or for other reasons.

  He also provided a financial update, noting district revenues and expenditures are currently tracking in line with previous years. Looking ahead to the 2026–27 budget, he explained that declining enrollment reduces funding through the State School Fund while costs such as labor, PERS, special education, and operational expenses continue to rise. Current projections show an overall shortfall of about $8–9 million across all funds, though approximately $4 million in reserves may help offset the gap, leaving about $4–5 million in reductions needed districtwide. He explained the district will need to “right-size” staffing and resources to align with the number of students currently enrolled, noting that the incoming kindergarten class is significantly smaller than the graduating senior class, which reduces funding by several million dollars. He added that the district is using planning tools and community engagement efforts to guide sustainable, transparent budget decisions moving forward.

  3.6 School Improvement Report
  Director Berg shared district assessment data for quarter two. At K–2, students take CORE phonics, Amira for literacy, and HMH for math, while grades 3–10 take NWA MAP for ELA and math. Fall to winter growth was strong in K–2 literacy and math, with many students showing double-digit growth and over 25% growth in first and second grades in math. The growth is attributed to professional development, targeted literacy supports, and new curricula. Next year, MAP will replace HMH math for K–2, though Amira will still be used for practice and growth. The K–2 MAP assessment is online, but small group administration will help ensure accessibility for all students. Assessments are designed to be both summative and formative, with special attention to dyslexia screening in kindergarten and first grade.

  Grades 3–5 also showed positive growth, with fourth-grade math identified as an area to monitor. Middle school students demonstrated strong growth across subjects, while high school data showed stability in 9th grade and some drops in 10th grade math, partly because advanced students are not included in these assessments. Overall, strengthening literacy practices has resulted in measurable student growth, and professional learning is being extended to upper elementary, middle, and early high school teachers. Assessments include all students unless modifications exist through IEPs or 504 plans. Passing NWA MAP scores indicate students are at or above the 60th percentile nationally.

  Director Berg also shared information on multilingual learners and enrollment trends. As of January, 12% of students are multilingual learners, with wide variation across buildings and many different languages represented. Graduation rates for historically lower-performing groups have increased, approaching the state average (black line in the graph). Ever-English learners students who exited EL programs consistently outperform most other groups (green line). Limited English proficiency students are a smaller group but have made gains in recent years. Attendance data shows that students who are regular attenders have rebounded, with active EL students surpassing the state average in recent years. The district is using this data to guide programming, supports, and budgeting decisions.

  4.0  Public Forum
  We did not receive any public comments

   

• 5.0  Unfinished Business 

  5.1 Budget Committee Appointments
  Chair Vollmer confirmed that board members had access to the shared document being used for discussion. He explained that the document is intended to be an interactive tool that can be refreshed in real time to capture board members’ input and potentially be used for future discussions as well.

  He noted that there are four applicants for the Budget Committee and three open positions. He stated that the board will need to discuss nominations and determine how they would like to proceed with the selection process. He then opened the floor for board members to share their thoughts or support for specific candidates before moving forward.

  Director Bader nominated Mary Dressel for the Budget Committee.

  On motion by Director Christine Bader, seconded by Director Bizon, the motion passed unanimously 6- 0 to approve the nomination of Mary Dressel for the Budget Committee.  Director Lu Ann Anderson – aye, Director Christine Bader – aye, Director Abbie Warmbier – aye,  Chair Larry Vollmer – aye, Vice-Chair Gerardo Partida – aye and Director Jason Bizon – aye.

  Director Bizon nominated McKenzie Moorhead for the Budget Committee.

  On motion by Director Jason Bizon, seconded by Director Abbie Warmbier, the motion passed unanimously 6- 0 to approve the nomination of McKenzie Moorhead for the Budget Committee.  Director Lu Ann Anderson – aye, Director Christine Bader – aye, Director Abbie Warmbier – aye,  Chair Larry Vollmer – aye, Vice-Chair Gerardo Partida – aye and Director Jason Bizon – aye.

  Director Anderson nominated Dan Sheppard for the Budget Committee.

  On motion by Director Lu Ann Anderson, seconded by Director Jason Bizon, the motion passed unanimously 6- 0 to approve the nomination of Dan Sheppard for the Budget Committee. Director Lu Ann Anderson – aye, Director Christine Bader – aye, Director Abbie Warmbier – aye,  Chair Larry Vollmer – aye, Vice-Chair Gerardo Partida – aye and Director Jason Bizon – aye.

  5.2  Baseball Out of State Overnight Travel – 2nd Reading
  Athletic Director Ryan McIrvin shared information about the McMinnville High School varsity baseball team’s upcoming spring break trip to Arizona. He noted that Coach Peterson was unable to attend due to baseball practice. The trip takes place every other year and has occurred four or five times over the past 8–10 years.

  During the trip, the team will participate in a spring break tournament and play four games against out-of-state teams. He explained that traveling to Arizona helps ensure the team can play games early in the season, which can be difficult in the Pacific Northwest due to weather conditions.

  He confirmed that the itinerary had been provided and stated he would answer any questions. It was noted that the trip is supported through fundraising, scholarships are available for eligible students if needed, and the entire varsity roster is expected to attend. He also shared that during the previous trip the team ended up playing several Oregon teams, but this year they expect to compete against teams from Arizona and Colorado.

  On motion by Director Abbie Warmbier, seconded by Vice Chair Gerardo Partida, the motion passed 5- 0, 1 abstain to approve the Baseball Out of State Travel to Arizona.  Director Lu Ann Anderson – aye, Director Christine Bader – aye, Director Abbie Warmbier – aye,  Chair Larry Vollmer – aye, Vice-Chair Gerardo Partida – aye, Director Jason Bizon abstained as he will be attending the trip.

  5.3  Symphonic Choir Out of State Overnight Travel – 2nd Reading
  Principal Dave Furman presented information on behalf of choir director Carly Jones regarding an upcoming McMinnville High School choir trip. He explained that the choir program alternates trips every other year between the Twilighters and the Symphonic Choir. This year, the trip is for the Symphonic Choir, allowing approximately 60 students to participate.

  Students will travel to Santa Clara, California, from April 17–19 to take part in an adjudicated music festival. The event provides students with the opportunity to perform, observe other high-level choir programs, and receive feedback from professional adjudicators who are not typically accessible within the state.

  The group will travel by one large bus and one activity bus, with five chaperones accompanying the approximately 60 students. Approval from the board is being requested so the choir can finalize travel arrangements.

  On motion by Director Abbie Warmbier, seconded by Director Jason Bizon, the motion passed unanimously 6- 0 to approve Symphonic Choir Out of State travel to California.  Director Lu Ann Anderson – aye, Director Christine Bader – aye, Director Abbie Warmbier – aye,  Chair Larry Vollmer – aye, Vice-Chair Gerardo Partida – aye and Director Jason Bizon – aye.

  5.5 Policy 2nd Reading
  Director Crain presented the following policy for a second reading:
  5.5.1 GBNAA/JHFF – Suspected Sexual Conduct with students and Reporting Requirements
  5.5.2 GBNAA/JHFF – AR – Suspected Sexual Conduct Report Procedures and Forms

  On motion by Director Christine Bader, seconded by Vice Chair Gerardo Partida, the motion passed unanimously 6- 0 to approve the new policy as presented for final adoption.  Director Lu Ann Anderson – aye, Director Christine Bader – aye, Director Abbie Warmbier – aye,  Chair Larry Vollmer – aye, Vice-Chair Gerardo Partida – aye and Director Jason Bizon – aye.

  6.0 New Business

  6.1 Policies 1st Reading
  Director Crain and Director Lauren Berg presented the following policies for a first reading:

  6.1.2 JECB-AR –  Admission of Non-Resident Students
  6.1.3  JECBB-AR –  Intraschool Transfers 

  These policies will return for second reading at the next Board Business meeting.

  6.2  Grizzly Robotics Team Out of State Overnight Travel 1st Reading
  Principal Dave Furman introduced a first reading for an overnight out-of-state travel request related to the McMinnville High School robotics program. He explained that the opportunity came together quickly due to the team’s competition results, so the school is seeking preliminary board authorization to move forward with planning and agreements while details are finalized.

  Dave Claussen shared that the high school has two robotics teams, and the Chronobrake team advanced beyond the Oregon state championship to compete at a major regional event. The team will travel to the Western Edge Championship in Long Beach, California, where 80 teams will compete. Oregon is one of the most competitive states in robotics, making the advancement a significant achievement.

  The trip would include 10 students in grades 9–12, with several parents interested in serving as chaperones. Staff are currently researching lodging, travel, and overall costs. Fundraising will begin soon, with support expected from community and industry partners to help reduce the cost for families. The last similar trip in 2019 cost nearly $25,000, with families contributing about $500 each.

  Board members discussed ensuring access for all eligible students, confirming appropriate chaperones, and completing required procedures. Staff also noted that the district is working on streamlining the out-of-state travel approval process so future trips may not require two board readings.

  On motion by Director Christine Bader, seconded by Vice Chair Gerardo Partida, the motion passed unanimously 6- 0 to tentatively approve the Robotics Team Out of State travel to Long Beach, CA. Director Lu Ann Anderson – aye, Director Christine Bader – aye, Director Abbie Warmbier – aye,  Chair Larry Vollmer – aye, Vice-Chair Gerardo Partida – aye and Director Jason Bizon – aye.

  6.3  Working Agreements   
  Chair Vollmer discussed the board’s Working Agreements, noting that feedback was gathered during the board retreat in late January. He, Mike Scott, and the superintendent reviewed that feedback and made updates and revisions to the original document.

  Rather than reviewing the agreements in detail during the meeting, Chair Vollmer asked board members to review the updated documents on their own time. A form will be sent out allowing members to submit suggested edits, changes, or amendments.

  The form will also include an option for board members to indicate whether they would like the board to publicly adopt the Working Agreements once revisions are finalized. After feedback is collected and any edits are made, the item could be placed on a future agenda for consideration. Board members were asked to review the documents and provide feedback within the next week or two.

  7.0  Board Directors Comments
  Director Warmbier shared that she attended the Decision Heights play at the high school and praised the students’ performance. She also congratulated the robotics team on their success.  She highlighted the Carlton Observatory Science Fest at Evergreen, noting strong community partnerships and the involvement of high school robotics students inspiring younger learners.  She also commended the expansion of Unity Week, including the use of the Sources of Strength program, and encouraged participation in the upcoming QPR training for community members and students.

  Director Anderson praised the new budget page for its clarity and thanked classified staff for their work. She shared highlights from attending Evergreen robotics, noting the energy, competitiveness, and innovative demos.  She thanked volunteers for Survival Swim at Memorial and appreciated classroom visits, commending teachers and administrators for their hospitality.  Finally, she highlighted the Blue Collar Tours, where students engaged with live welding demos and programs, and noted it was a great opportunity for community and elected officials to see high school offerings firsthand.

  Vice Chair Partida thanked Dan, Mary, and Mackenzie for their service on the Budget Committee, noting their contributions will benefit the community. He also expressed condolences for the loss of a student from Patton, acknowledging the support provided by staff and the ongoing impact of the tragedy.

  Director Bizon thanked Dr. Ferrua for attending the Diamond Club dinner with him on Saturday, noting it was a great event with strong attendance.

  8.0 Future Agenda Items
  None

  9.0 Announcements
  None

  Meeting Videos

  The meeting adjourned at 8:31 p.m.