June 2, 2025 Work Session Minutes
MINUTES OF THE SCHOOL BOARD OF DISTRICT NO. 40,
YAMHILL COUNTY, McMINNVILLE, OREGON
The Work Session was held June 2, 2025 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/97721628814
Provisional Minutes-Not Board Approved
At 6:30 p.m. the Board of Directors of McMinnville School District opened the work session meeting. The meeting was called to order by Chair Jason Bizon. Roll call indicated the following:
BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT
Chair Mr. Jason Bizon
Vice-Chair Ms. Abbie Warmbier
Director Lu Ann Anderson
Director Christine Bader
Director Gerardo Partida
Director Doris Towery
Director Larry Vollmer
BOARD MEMBERS ABSENT
None
ADMINISTRATION
Steffanie Frost, Acting Superintendent
Cherice Bowden, Board Secretary
McPHERSON & JACOBSON, LLC
Doug Nelson, McPherson & Jacobson, LLC via Zoom
Mike Scott, McPherson & Jacobson, LLC via Zoom
AUDIENCE
Heidi Vollmer
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Second Meeting Agenda
- Review Stakeholder Report
Doug Nelson and Mike Scott provided an overview of a survey distributed to the McMinnville community, which garnered 393 responses, including 10 Spanish-language replies. The majority of respondents were parents (60%), followed by staff, students, and other community members, highlighting a strong connection between the district and its stakeholders.
The survey revealed several key insights. On the positive side, the community expressed pride in the district’s academic excellence, including Career and Technical Education (CTE), advanced placement courses, and extracurricular activities. There was also strong support for the district’s diversity and inclusion efforts, as well as the sense of care and community involvement. However, challenges were also identified, such as concerns over student behavior, the need for greater transparency and trust in leadership, and a desire for more innovation in district programs. Respondents also emphasized the need for a superintendent with teaching experience, a solid understanding of public education, and the ability to foster strong community connections and ethical leadership.
Director Towery commented, saying, “I really appreciate all the effort that went into conducting this survey. I read through all 91 pages, it was fantastic to see such a high level of engagement. For comparison, Canby had only about 230 responses, so to see this much involvement from our community is truly impressive. Thank you for taking the time and going the extra mile to gather this valuable feedback for us.”
The board reviewed, discussed and asked clarifying questions for the following:
- Establish Interview Schedule
- Interview Procedures
- Interview Bias
- Finalist Selection Process
- Candidate/Stakeholder Form & Process
Director Bader commented that they just talked about the emphasis of the community wanting to see more transparency from the Board, she would not be in favor of discarding all of the other stakeholder interviews.
Director Anderson commented that she was thinking along the same lines. They heard loud and clear from their constituents.
There was a discussion on the stakeholder panels, a tour for the candidates coming outside of the district and if each candidate would do a writing sample.
Vice-Chair Warmbier asked for an explanation of how they would take the stakeholders feedback?
Doug Nelson explained that stakeholder groups are not asked to rank or recommend candidates. Instead, they fill out an input form included in the agenda, noting the candidate’s strengths, any questions or concerns they still have after the interview. The forms are submitted to the hiring committee, who should form their own opinions first, before reviewing stakeholder feedback. It’s recommended that each stakeholder group submit a single, collective form to simplify the review process.
Mike Scott commented that typically, one person from each stakeholder group acts as a facilitator. This person gathers input from the group, ensures everyone agrees on what goes on the feedback sheet and submits the feedback to be shared with the Board. The feedback helps inform the Board’s decision-making process. The facilitator can be prepared and supported as needed.
Doug Nelson commented that one of the things they always recommend is that make sure you have a solid number one but have a backup just in case your finalist backs out, make sure you have a second choice. It is important that the new superintendent be hired on a unanimous vote.
Upcoming dates:
- Executive Session: June 16, 2025
- Special Board Meeting: June 18, 2025
- Work Session Meeting: June 23, 2025
The Session adjourned at 7:38 p.m.