April 27, 2026 Work Session Meeting Minutes

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

The Work Session was held April 27, 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/97721628814

At 7:05 p.m. the Board of Directors of McMinnville School District opened the work session meeting.  The meeting was called to order by Chair Larry Vollmer.  Roll call indicated the following:

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
Brian Crain, Jason Hall, Lauren Berg, Hiran Amerasinghe, Emily Linnertz,  Autumn Foster, Linda Jones and Shelly Simonyi.

• Facilities Update
  Director Crain provided an overview of facilities and operations, including work request data, custodial supply savings, bond planning progress, and construction projects. He reported that from July 1, 2025, to April 21, 2026, the district completed 1,296 work requests, with 31 currently open and 30 on hold. Requests vary in size and urgency, with common categories including plumbing, electrical, HVAC, and moving, and are prioritized based on need, including immediate attention for safety or ADA-related issues.

  He also shared that the district realized significant cost savings by switching custodial supply vendors, estimating over $22,000 saved compared to the previous year. Additionally, he provided an update on the bond planning process, noting that stakeholder input has been gathered through walkthroughs and task force groups. The district is now working with a long-range facility planning committee to prioritize needs, recognizing that total identified facility needs exceed potential bond funding and will require careful prioritization.

  Updates were also provided on construction excise tax projects. The softball team room is in final permitting stages, with construction expected to begin in early May, slightly behind schedule. The baseball dugout project has gone out to bid, with contractor selection forthcoming and construction anticipated to begin around August.

  Directors Comments
  Director Warmbier spoke about the potential need for a reduction in force (RIF), emphasizing the district’s focus on cutting non-student-facing costs while protecting staffing as much as possible. She noted that savings like custodial supplies help, but staffing remains the largest part of the budget.  She stated the Board’s goal is to preserve employee positions whenever possible and continue prioritizing staff retention while managing facilities and maintenance responsibly.  Director Warmbier also noted that possible staffing reductions have been expected since the end of ESSER funding and reflect an ongoing financial challenge faced by the district and others.

  Director Anderson echoed the previous comments, noting that the potential for a reduction in force is difficult and expressing trust in the superintendent and administrators to proceed with care and caution.  She also acknowledged the recent passing of former administrator Mark Hyder, recognizing his many years of service and contributions to the district. Director Anderson shared her condolences with his family and reflected on her long-standing connection with him.

  Vice Chair Partida echoed the comments made by Directors Anderson and Warmbier. He emphasized that any reduction in force should only occur “if necessary” and acknowledged that it is a difficult decision. 

  Chair Vollmer expressed appreciation to district senior leadership and the Board, and noted the importance of maintaining classroom instruction and student learning time. He referenced challenges in other districts that have had to reduce staff mid-year, causing disruptions to students.  He stated that the district manages its finances responsibly and does not spend every available dollar, which reflects fiscal restraint and accountability.  Chair Vollmer added that if a reduction in force (RIF) becomes necessary, it should be as limited as possible, and he expressed confidence in district leadership to make careful decisions.

  Upcoming dates:

  • May 6, 2026 First Formal Budget Committee meeting and May 20, 2026 Second Formal Budget meeting
  • Board Business meeting May 11, 2026 and June 8, 2026
  • Work Session meeting May 18, 2026 and June 22, 2026

  Meeting video

  The Session adjourned at 7:32 PM.