During a recent school board meeting, community members expressed deep concerns regarding the management and direction of the local school system. Reverend Dean Hollow Mill, a prominent figure in the community, emphasized the need for greater involvement from board members in the decision-making processes, particularly regarding student suspensions and detentions. He urged the board to change its approach, citing a troubling situation in Hammond where a lack of detail and involvement led to significant issues.

Hollow Mill highlighted the importance of prioritizing student welfare over financial concerns, criticizing the focus on budgetary matters at the expense of discussing student graduation rates and overall educational quality. He lamented that discussions often overlook the voices of students, stating, \"When we meet here for the school board meetings, they should be number 1.\"

The Reverend called for a renewed commitment to the community and its children, reminding board members that all children are their responsibility, even those who are no longer in the system. He expressed hope that the newly constituted board could bring about meaningful change, restoring the district's former reputation as a leading educational institution.

In a related note, a board member clarified that the extended public comment period was implemented to ensure transparency and allow community members to voice their opinions on important contracts and decisions affecting the school system. The meeting underscored a collective desire for a more engaged and student-centered approach to governance in the district.