School District prioritizes safety and mental health based on community survey feedback

The recent Forest Grove School District 15 meeting on April 25, 2025, focused on the district's budget priorities and community engagement efforts. The meeting highlighted the importance of aligning budget resources with the district's strategic goals, which include instruction and learning, behavioral health and wellness, family and student engagement, and creating a resilient organization. These goals were established through a comprehensive strategic planning process that involved significant community input.

A key component of the meeting was the presentation of results from the district's annual budget priority survey, which received an impressive response rate this year. Conducted in mid-March, the survey garnered 796 responses, with 67% coming from students, marking one of the highest levels of student engagement in recent years. The survey aimed to identify the community's top funding priorities and areas where reductions might be considered.

The results revealed that the community's primary concerns are safety and security, class size, and after-school counseling and mental health services. These findings reflect the values and priorities of the stakeholders, emphasizing the need for the district to focus on these areas in its budget planning.

As the district prepares for its next meeting on May 8, officials will review how well the budget aligns with these identified priorities. The ongoing analysis of survey comments will further inform the district's approach to addressing community needs. This meeting underscores the district's commitment to engaging with its community and ensuring that its resources are directed toward the most pressing issues facing students and families.