May 11, 2026 Business Board Meeting Minutes
MINUTES OF THE SCHOOL BOARD OF DISTRICT NO. 40,
YAMHILL COUNTY, McMINNVILLE, OREGON
The Board Business Meeting was held May 11, 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 Jasmin Juarez
Director Abbie Warmbier
BOARD MEMBERS ABSENT
None
ADMINISTRATION
Kourtney Ferrua, Superintendent
Cherice Bowden, Board Secretary
AUDIENCE
Jason Hall, Hiran Amerasinghe, Brian Crain, Lisa Jordan-Zornow, Allison Eitzen, Dave Furman, Kathi Fowler, Lauren Berg, Kim Price, Cielo Tahmaseb, Stephanie Murdock, Martha Biggs, Hilary Brittan Lack, Autumn Foster, Linda Jones, and Emily Linnertz. See attached.
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1.1 Pledge of Allegiance
The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Rhian and Abby.1.4 Introductions and Communications
Superintendent Ferrua welcomed the Willamette Elementary choir as the student group for the meeting and expressed excitement about the new envoys joining the high school team.1.5 Review of Agenda
Added for a second reading, item 5.1., SkillsUSA Fabrication Out of State Overnight Travel for Board approval.2.0 Consent Agenda
2.1 Gifts to the District: The Board accepted with gratitude, gifts to the District:
Adec donated $500.00 to MHS, Sunrise Rotary Foundation McMinnville donated $1500.00 to MHS, Connie Walter Donated $200.00 to MHS, Harry & Carol McGulley donated $250.00 to MHS, Chris & Sue Huwaldt donated $100.00 to MHS, Freelin Wade donated 500.00 to MHS, McMinnville Industrial Promotions, Inc. donated $5000.00 to MHS, Hinchcliff, Inc. donated $500.00 to MHS, Melina Judd DMD, LLC/Cooper Dental donated $200.00 to MHS and Stacy Martin donated $240.00 to MHS for the Grizzly Robotics Tournament, VCP Cleaning Services, LLC donated $100.00 to MHS for the track team, Yamhill County Sheriff’s Mounted Posse donated $1100.00 to MHS for the Equestrian Club, McMinnville Women’s Choir donated $490.00 to MHS for the resource room, Mark Bunker donated $1500.00 to MHS for girls tennis and Dean & Debbie Klaus donated $650.00 to MHS for the golf program.2.2 Approval of minutes of the April 13, 2026 Business Board Meeting and April 27, 2026 Work Session Meeting approved.
2.3 Personnel Actions approved.On motion by Director Jason Bizon, seconded by Director Abbie Warmbier, the Consent Agenda was approved on a unanimous vote 7-0. Director Christine Bader – aye, Director Abbie Warmbier – aye, Chair Larry Vollmer – aye, Vice-Chair Gerardo Partida – aye, Director Jason Bizon -aye, Director Lu Ann Anderson – aye and Director Jasmin Juarez – aye.
3.0 REPORTS
The Board heard Monthly Reports3.1 Student Reports
Principal Stephanie Murdock thanked the board for having Willamette Elementary present and shared that building a sense of belonging and community is a key goal in the school improvement plan. She reported that the school ranked in the 94th percentile nationwide on the Youth Truth Survey for students feeling like they belong.She highlighted the “Willamette Shows Up” initiative, where every student received a school t-shirt to help foster inclusion and school pride. Principal Murdock also shared that 55 fourth and fifth grade students participate in choir, noting that music and choir help students feel connected and excited to come to school. She then introduced music teacher Ms. Kira Nelson and the student performers. The choir student performed two songs; Chin Up from Charlotte’s Web and This Pretty Planet.
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 shared that schools are in a “busy and important time of the year,” with students and staff focused on completing OSAS testing “as stress-free as possible.” She also highlighted outdoor school experiences for fifth grade students, stating that it is “an incredible opportunity” that students carry with them long after leaving school, and thanked the board for continuing to prioritize and support outdoor school.She congratulated Brian Bixler for being named Distinguished Educator of the Year by the McMinnville City Club and Ryan McIrvin for receiving the NIAAA State Award of Merit, noting that these recognitions reflect the exceptional educators throughout the district. She also acknowledged the professionalism of the staff at Newby Elementary for following protocols and keeping students safe during a recent incident, and thanked Superintendent Ferrua for visiting the building afterward and listening to staff.
She reported that recent Labor Management Liaison meetings included discussions about caseloads, potential blended classrooms next year, and other collaborative work moving forward. She shared that the Special Education Committee continues working on what Student Services may look like next year and expressed encouragement about the hiring of the new Student Services Director and the work being done to reform the department to better serve all students.
She emphasized the importance of keeping class sizes at manageable levels for both students and staff. Referring to a recent open letter and video shared with board members, Superintendent Ferrua, and union membership, she stated that McEA will work closely with the district if staffing reductions occur to ensure members are informed and recall rights are protected. She concluded by stating that the district has sufficient funds in reserves to maintain current staffing levels, protect reasonable class sizes, and preserve a full 192-day school year, urging the district to release some of these reserves and do what is best for our students.
3.4 Superintendent Report
Superintendent Ferrua shared that as the school year enters its final month, there is a strong sense of energy and pride across the district as students complete state assessments and schools celebrate performances, concerts, athletics, and end-of-year traditions.She noted the district is also preparing to honor the Class of 2026 and thanked educators during Licensed Staff Appreciation Week, recognizing Brian Bixler, Ryan McIrvin, and five Rotary Outstanding Teachers of the Year.
She announced the hiring of Barb Keeton as the new principal of Memorial Elementary. Ms. Keeton joins the district from Lake Oswego School District with more than two decades of experience in Oregon public education and is known for her student-centered leadership and ability to build strong collaborative school communities.
She provided clarification on enrollment projections, explaining that the district budgeted for 6,202 students for the 2025-26 school year, but current enrollment is 5,876 students, 326 fewer than projected. With 573 seniors graduating and an estimated 346 kindergarten students entering next year, the proposed 2026-27 budget projects enrollment at 5,780 students. She stated that declining enrollment is requiring the district to “right-size staffing and resources, with some elementary staff moving to middle school positions through voluntary and involuntary transfers. The district anticipates a small reduction in force of 5 to 10 members while continuing to prioritize the student experience.
She shared that unlike neighboring districts eliminating 40 to 50 positions, MSD has avoided furlough days and continues to exceed the state’s required instructional time. She thanked the board for their feedback during her evaluation process and expressed appreciation for district staff who continue to show up with professionalism, compassion, and a relentless focus on doing what’s best for kids.
3.5 Director of Fiscal Services’ Report
Director Hall shared that as of May 1, district enrollment was 5,896 students, approximately 5% below budget projections, with the largest decreases at the elementary and high school levels. He noted that kindergarten enrollment was 344 students while the senior class was at 579 students, reinforcing concerns about declining enrollment projections for next year.He reported that 50 students withdrew during the month of April, with the primary reason being 10-day drops, followed by students moving out of state or country. He stated the district continues to monitor and reach out to students connected to 10-day drops to better understand attendance concerns.
Director Hall shared that as of March, 88% of budgeted revenue had been received and 55% of expenditures had been spent, noting the district is currently where it expected to be financially. He reminded the board that May is the final month the district receives State School Fund payments, while June is typically the district’s largest expenditure month due to salary payouts. He also noted the district continues to closely monitor discretionary spending and supplies and materials costs.
He also shared that interim audit work will begin next week and announced the district received the ASBO Certificate of Excellence for its 2025 audit report, marking the 17th consecutive year receiving the recognition.
3.6 School Improvement Report
Summer Programs
Director Berg shared an update on summer programs, highlighting a three-year Summer Learning Grant award from ODE that will provide approximately $187,000 each summer to support academic and enrichment programming for K-8 students, including kindergarten camp in August. She noted the district is partnering with community organizations such as Evergreen Outdoor Education Adventures and Carlton Observatory to provide enrichment opportunities and a little bit of a camp experience for students.She shared that family outreach and student registration are already underway at elementary and middle schools, while staffing processes are ongoing for licensed staff, classified staff, and high school students in education pathway programs. She also shared that operational planning includes expanded meal service and transportation for students. She states that there is a tremendous amount of collaboration happening across departments each week to prepare the summer programming and expressed appreciation for the team helping make the opportunity possible for students.
The Board asked clarifying questions which Director Berg answered.
Kindergarten & Pre-K Registration
Director Berg shared that all elementary schools hosted kindergarten and pre-K registration night on April 30, giving families the opportunity to register students, meet staff, ask questions, and begin building connections with their school communities.As of last week, 73 pre-K students and 174 kindergarten students had pre-enrolled, with numbers expected to continue increasing as outreach continues.
In response to a question about Memorial Elementary, Director Berg explained that the district has not historically offered a pre-K site there, but families can still enroll at their homeschool site and indicate other campuses that work best for their schedules. The district then works to place families at sites where space and programming are available.
ELPA Updates
Director Berg provided an update on ELPA, the English Language Proficiency Assessment, which measures English learners annually in four areas. She reviewed the number of students participating and noted that high school testing percentages are expected to increase after summer data cleanup removes students who are no longer enrolled. She recognized the efforts of staff, including Chris Starr, for their work supporting student assessments.She shared that the district received its first batch of ELPA reports in April, primarily for high school students. Five students achieved proficiency in all four areas, while six students were identified in a new Early Proficient category for demonstrating proficiency in three of four areas and being close to where they might exit. She explained that the new category allows districts to engage families in consultation meetings about whether students should continue receiving services. She shared that an additional batch of ELPA reports was released today, and more detailed information will be shared once the data has been reviewed.
Attendance Rates
Director Berg shared that attendance continues to be one of the district’s most important areas of focus because of its direct connection to academic success, engagement, belonging, and graduation outcomes. She reported positive attendance trends, with overall attendance increasing from 87.6% to 88.8%. She also shared a deep decrease in chronic absenteeism of a little over 8%, following a similar decrease the previous month, resulting in a combined 16-17% reduction in chronic absenteeism.She stated this shows that the outreach and the work that we’re doing is making a difference on our students. She highlighted that elementary schools continue to show very strong attendance rates and shared that gains are being seen across almost all student groups. She added that attendance data is reviewed regularly by administrative teams to continue improving systems, engagement strategies, and interventions for students.
District Mental Health Supports
Director Berg provided an overview of the district’s mental health and social-emotional support systems, explaining that the work is grounded in a multi-tiered system of support framework. She shared that Tier 1 represents universal support for all students and creates the foundation for all of our work, while Tier 2 includes targeted interventions and Tier 3 focuses on individualized and intensive support. Berg emphasized that “strong Tier 1 systems reduce the number of students needing more intensive interventions.”She reviewed examples of support across the tiers, including positive school culture, trauma-informed practices, counseling groups, mentor programs, behavioral support systems, and community mental health partnerships. She highlighted district programs such as Character Strong at the elementary level, Tier 2 Character Strong supports, the Wayfinder program at secondary schools, and Sources of Strength at MHS to help build student resiliency and connections.
She also reviewed staffing and community partnerships that support student mental health services, including collaborations with Lutheran Community Services at the elementary level and Yamhill County Family and Youth at the middle and high school levels. She noted that clinicians provide school-based mental health services and support for students and families.
She shared that the district recently hosted the Boots on the Ground Community Connection event focused on student mental health and wellness trends, where a major theme was the importance of strong school community partnership to ensure students receive services. She also explained that the district has developed new nonprofit and community partnership guidance to establish clear expectations around supervision, privacy, instructional time, and facility use while supporting sustainable partnerships with outside organizations.
During board discussion, a question was asked about the status of the grant funding the community-based health center and what year the district is in for that funding. Director Berg responded that she would need to gather that information and report back. Another board member commented on the growing need for mental health services and the difficulty of finding and retaining professionals in the field, describing it as an underappreciated profession and emphasizing that there’s way more need than there are services. Director Berg responded that social-emotional learning standards introduced several years ago helped highlight the importance of Tier 1 supports, and she noted that through conversations with community groups and organizations, the need for additional mental health services and advocacy continues to be highlighted across the state.
Comparative District Data SB 141
Director Berg shared an update on SB 141 and presented a new resource tool developed by the CAA department to compare McMinnville School District to 35 similar districts across Oregon. She explained that the state now groups districts based on similar districts with demographic and system characteristics so comparisons are no longer only statewide but within peer groups.She noted that McMinnville is performing above average in many metrics, including K–12 attendance, K–2 attendance, 3rd grade ELA, 4th grade ELA, and is very proud to say in 8th grade math, we are ranked number 1 of the 35 districts. She also highlighted strong outcomes in 4-year graduation and 5-year completion rates.
She explained that the tool allows the district to examine performance gaps more precisely, saying it helps show “how far are we from some of these other districts,” often only a few percentage points apart, which provides a baseline for identifying areas of growth and strength. She described the district’s peer group as including 35 other districts around the state and noted that groupings are based on factors such as community demographics, resources, and geography, including urban versus rural distinctions. She acknowledged that the state continues to refine how these groupings are defined and that there is some variation in group sizes.
She concluded that this data will be used to inform school improvement planning and help the district move in a positive direction as it prepares for upcoming Oregon Department of Education accountability expectations.
The Board asked clarifying questions, which Director Berg addressed.
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4.0 Public Forum
We received one Intent to Speak card at the meeting from a community member. The community member shared that they “love where I live” and enjoy seeing high school students in the neighborhood, but raised concerns about graduation parking. They described annual traffic issues, with cars “circling the block” and people struggling to find parking, noting that they have offered their driveway for the past five years. They shared positive experiences from doing so, including neighbors helping arrange parking for visitors who were “so grateful,” including individuals with mobility challenges. The speaker suggested a solution from a neighbor: that the school district consider a parking lot with a shuttle bus to transport families to the high school and provide waiting areas for those who cannot walk long distances. They noted that the neighborhood has “really narrow streets” and limited parking, and emphasized that while walking works for some, “for a lot of people, they really can’t do it.”5.0 Unfinished Business
5.1 Grizzly Robotics Team Out of State Overnight Travel- 2nd Reading
Mr. Clauson requested board approval, and shared that students will compete in an international robotics event with teams from countries including India, China, Brazil, Jamaica, Kazakhstan, Romania, Thailand, and South Korea, highlighting it as an opportunity for students to compete, learn from each other, and collaborate.On motion by Director Abbie Warmbier, seconded by Vice Chair Gerardo Partida, the motion passed 7- 0, to approve the Grizzly Robotics Team Out of State Overnight travel. Director Christine Bader – aye, Director Abbie Warmbier – aye, Chair Larry Vollmer – aye, Vice-Chair Gerardo Partida – aye, Director Jason Bizon -aye, Director Lu Ann Anderson – aye and Director Jasmin Juarez – aye.
5.1.1 SkillsUSA Out of State Overnight Travel 2nd Reading
Mr. Ford requested board approval for a SkillsUSA student competition trip to Atlanta, Georgia, June 1–6, after a student won the state Commercial Roofing Championship in April. He shared that one male student will attend with him as the sole chaperone, and the student’s father will also participate due to his commercial roofing business.On motion by Director Christine Bader, seconded by Director Lu Ann Anderson, the motion passed 7- 0, to approve the SkillsUSA Out of State Overnight travel. Director Christine Bader – aye, Director Abbie Warmbier – aye, Chair Larry Vollmer – aye, Vice-Chair Gerardo Partida – aye, Director Jason Bizon -aye, Director Lu Ann Anderson – aye and Director Jasmin Juarez – aye.
5.2 Policy 2nd Reading
Director Crain presented the following policies for a second reading:
5.2.1 FFA – MemorialsOn motion by Director Lu Ann Anderson, seconded by Vice Chair Gerardo Partida, the motion passed unanimously 7- 0 to approve the policy as presented for final adoption. Director Christine Bader – aye, Director Abbie Warmbier – aye, Chair Larry Vollmer – aye, Vice-Chair Gerardo Partida – aye, Director Jason Bizon -aye, Director Lu Ann Anderson – aye and Director Jasmin Juarez – aye.
5.2.2 FF – Naming New Schools
On motion by Director Abbie Warmbier, seconded by Director Jasmin Juarez, the motion passed unanimously 7- 0 to approve the policy as presented for final adoption. Director Christine Bader – aye, Director Abbie Warmbier – aye, Chair Larry Vollmer – aye, Vice-Chair Gerardo Partida – aye, Director Jason Bizon -aye, Director Lu Ann Anderson – aye and Director Jasmin Juarez – aye.
6.0 New Business
6.1 Policies 1st Reading
Director Crain presented the following policies for a first reading:6.1.1 JECB – Admission of Non-Resident
6.1.2 JECB-AR – Admission of Non-Resident Students
6.1.3 JECBB-AR – Intraschool TransfersThese policies will return for second reading at the next Board Business meeting.
OSBA Analysis
Director Crain reported on the district’s policy review, stating that OSBA identified 56 policies that are adequate, but also found 266 policies and regulations that need review or revision. He noted there are 17 policies or administrative regulations that are missing and required by state or federal statute, explaining these appear to be longstanding gaps, not created by the current board.He added there are 40 policies that are missing and are highly recommended, and 61 policies that are recommended for deleting. He shared that he and the superintendent will meet with OSBA’s Leslie Fisher to determine the best path forward.
He noted some updates involve only minor language changes, such as removing gendered language or modernizing terminology, and said the district hopes to batch those together. He stated that we will come forth with a plan, and expressed the goal of creating a clearer, more sustainable process so the district does not end up in this situation again.
6.2 Intent to Award Contract – Baseball
Director Hall provided an update on the CET Fund, explaining it was established in 2008 to support capital improvements. He noted recent projects funded include district-wide intercom upgrades, replacement of the Grand Haven fire panel, and the Grand Haven chiller. He reported the district expects to receive approximately “$550,000” this year, with an ending fund balance of about “$2.785 million,” and annual revenues typically ranging from $400,000 to $500,000.Director Crain presented the baseball dugout project as a collaborative design effort involving Cornerstone Management, Arcadis Architecture, the athletic director, and the varsity baseball coach. He emphasized the facility is used year-round, stating it is being used consistently 10 months out of the year, with only August and December not in use, serving high school teams and multiple youth programs.
Director Crain described the current dugouts as outdated, noting significant cracks and safety concerns, including low clearance. He explained the project will expand both dugouts in width and height, improve safety, and add a new concession stand with sinks, drainage, and electrical upgrades, requiring a 110-foot utility extension.
He reported receiving 8 bids and said the results were consistent enough to confirm pricing validity, with only about a $49,000 difference between the selected bid and the next highest. He recommended awarding the project to Blue Spruce Builders of Dallas, Oregon, citing their experience with school and public projects, including stadium and facility work. The construction is planned to begin in August 2026 and he reiterated that improvements are intended to serve the district long-term.
On motion by Director Jason Bizon, seconded by Director Abbie Warmbier, the motion passed unanimously 7- 0 to approve the Intent to Award Contract – Baseball Dugout to the Blue Spruce Builders of Dallas, Oregon. Director Christine Bader – aye, Director Abbie Warmbier – aye, Chair Larry Vollmer – aye, Vice-Chair Gerardo Partida – aye, Director Jason Bizon -aye, Director Lu Ann Anderson – aye and Director Jasmin Juarez – aye.
6.3 Curriculum Adoption Social Studies 1st Reading
Director Berg presented the first reading of the social science curriculum adoption, stating the district is right on pace with a final vote planned for June. She reported that elementary staff selected Inquiry Journeys for its strong organization, vocabulary support, and alignment with standards and literacy integration. At the middle school level, staff are recommending McGraw-Hill for its alignment to Oregon standards and support for students, and at the high school level McGraw-Hill is also recommended for U.S. history, world history, and economics, while continuing to use the current U.S. government textbook, which staff find it to be a great resource.6.4 Graduation Update
Principal Furman shared graduation information for the Class of 2026, noting that a formal invitation is included in the board packet. He invited the board to attend commencement, asking members to arrive at McMinnville High School at 6:30 p.m., where gowns and regalia will be provided and parking will be available near the food court and gym entrance. Principal Furman also highlighted key senior events leading up to graduation, including Senior Week, Decision Day on May 27, Scholarship Night on June 3, and the Parade of Graduates on June 4 at elementary and middle schools. He invites the board to attend graduation on June 5, stating, please, be our guest at graduation.6.5 Informational Update
Director Warmbier announced her resignation, stating it will be effective June 9th following the June 8th board meeting. She explained she will stay through the next meeting to participate in important budget votes. She also stated that the summer would provide time for onboarding a replacement.6.6 2025-26 Superintendent Evaluation
Chair Vollmer read the following statement:On May 5, 2026, the McMinnville School Board of Directors has completed its yearly evaluation on our first year Superintendent, Dr. Kourtney Ferrua. As of July 1, 2025, Dr. Ferrua started with our district as an interim, was hired as permanent Superintendent in December 2025, and leads the McMinnville School District into the future with short term success and long-term promise. Dr. Ferrua has been rated at or above expectation in all evaluation categories: (Continuous School Improvement, Fiscal Responsibility, Positive Climate Culture, and Opportunities, Family and Community Partnerships, and Leadership). This continual focus on the factors that make our district strong, successful, and relevant in bringing up the standard of success for our students is why we believe we are good in hands with Kourtney at the helm.
We look forward to our continued collaboration with students at the center of our work.
Chair Vollmer opened up item 6.6, 2025-26 Superintendent Evaluation for discussion.
On motion by Director Lu Ann Anderson , seconded by Vice Chair Gerardo Partida, the motion passed 6- 0, 1 abstain to approve the 2025-26 Superintendent Evaluation for Dr. Kourtney Ferrua. Director Christine Bader – aye, Director Abbie Warmbier – aye, Chair Larry Vollmer – aye, Vice-Chair Gerardo Partida – aye, Director Lu Ann Anderson – aye and Director Jasmin Juarez – aye. Director Jason Bizon abstained from voting as he disagreed with the process.
7.0 Board Directors Comments
Director Bader shared that she has started regularly reading the weekly staff updates and shout-outs, noting that they highlight the warmth and dedication of so many people in our district. She thanked staff for their work during this frenetic period leading up to the capstone of our year of graduation, and expressed appreciation for everyone’s efforts.Vice Chair Partida shared that he visited a classroom at Grandhaven after being invited by Mrs. Thomson and the principal. He said it was his first time spending extended time with students and teachers and described it as an “amazing experience.” He noted it reinforced the value of board members visiting schools to better understand classroom work.
Director Juarez wished Director Warmbier “the best” and thanked her for her service and contributions to the school board.
Director Anderson gave a shout out to the Enrichment Society for violin classes and shared that she attended a kindergarten violin performance at Memorial Elementary, describing it as a joyful experience and encouraging others to see kindergarteners perform at Miller Woods. She also congratulated Hilary Brittan Lack on a recent statewide board appointment and expressed appreciation for staff preparing for graduation, including grounds and maintenance teams for making the stadium look top-notch and ready.
Director Warmbier shared that she will attend her daughter’s violin performance instead of the budget meeting, noting she missed it last year and wants to prioritize it this year. She also congratulated Jason Hall and the team for receiving the award for financial excellence, calling it a significant achievement. She recognized student awards, spring sports coaches, and reminded the board about the upcoming Pathway Showcase at McMinnville High School. She welcomed Principal Keeton to the McMinnville School District and expressed anticipation for her work at Memorial Elementary
8.0 Future Agenda Items
None9.0 Announcements
NoneMeeting Videos Slide presentation
The meeting adjourned at 9:06 PM