School District engages Crescent Valley High students in budget and facilities planning

The Corvallis School Board is taking significant steps to enhance student and staff engagement as it navigates a challenging budget landscape. During the meeting on February 6, 2025, district officials highlighted recent student engagement sessions held at Crescent Valley High School, where valuable feedback was gathered from students. This initiative is part of a broader effort to involve staff and the community in the decision-making process regarding the district's future.

The board discussed the importance of targeted conversations and surveys with staff in specific areas where changes are being considered. This approach aims to ensure that feedback is meaningful and actionable, rather than attempting to incorporate every suggestion from a wider audience. The district has also adjusted its secondary forecasting timeline to better align with the budget process, allowing principals to access data on student course preferences that will inform staffing and budget decisions.

In light of a projected $18 million budget reduction, the district is actively engaging in long-range planning, which includes a facilities plan required by state law every 7 to 10 years. This plan will assess the condition of school buildings and incorporate educational design considerations. A demographic study is also underway to analyze trends and projections, ensuring that the district's strategies align with professional insights.

Looking ahead, the district plans to hold a community engagement session focused on the budget, marking a new effort to involve the public in financial discussions. The budget timeline was shared, emphasizing the critical work that needs to be completed by June 12, 2025.

Board members expressed appreciation for the clarity and organization of the information presented, acknowledging the challenges ahead. They emphasized the need for ongoing communication with staff and the community as the district works to address its financial shortfall while maintaining educational quality. The board's commitment to transparency and engagement will be crucial as they navigate these complex issues in the coming months.