Roseburg Public Schools board approves MOU for Advanced Medical Pathways with UCC

The April 9, 2025, Roseburg School Board meeting, held by the Douglas County School District 4, focused on several key agenda items, including staff changes, a resolution for National Teacher Appreciation Week, and a memorandum of understanding with Umpqua Community College.

The meeting commenced with Superintendent Corden reviewing the agenda, noting a minor change to the consent agenda that now includes a request for a leave of absence for the 2025-2026 school year. He expressed gratitude to the staff for their efforts in creating an inviting environment at Fergrove, highlighting the importance of community support for students and staff.

The board then moved to approve the consent agenda, which included recommendations for hiring, notices of retirement, and gifts to the district from local organizations. The motion to approve was unanimously carried.

Next, Vice Chair Cotton read a resolution proclaiming May 2025 as National Teacher Appreciation Week. The resolution emphasized the vital role teachers play in shaping future citizens and encouraged community members to express their appreciation for educators. The board unanimously approved the resolution after a brief discussion on the importance of teachers in achieving educational goals.

The meeting proceeded with a proposal to approve Sodexo USA as the nutrition services management company for the district. Denny Austin, the warehouse and purchasing manager, presented the evaluation process that led to this recommendation. The board discussed the importance of maintaining quality nutrition services and ultimately approved the contract, effective July 1, 2025.

A significant agenda item was the memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Umpqua Community College for the Advanced Medical Pathways Annex. This initiative aims to create a classroom complex that will provide Roseburg High School students with valuable skills and experiences in the medical field. The board expressed enthusiasm for the project, viewing it as a transformative opportunity for students. The MOU was unanimously approved.

In closing, the meeting included a brief report from the Building Insights Committee, which reviewed the MOU and acknowledged improvements to the district's long-range facilities plan, set to be presented in May.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the board's commitment to supporting educators, enhancing student opportunities, and fostering community partnerships.