Enrollment concerns and legislative priorities dominated the McMinnville School Board meeting on November 4, 2024, as officials reported a significant drop in student numbers and discussed pressing funding issues.

Since October 1, the district has seen a net loss of 81 students, with notable fluctuations at various schools. While Buhl and Grand Haven reported increases of 12 and 10 students respectively, the high school faced a decline of 26 students. This trend has raised alarms about the importance of student attendance, which officials emphasized as crucial for academic success and mental wellness. The district plans to intensify efforts to improve attendance rates moving forward.

In addition to enrollment challenges, the board highlighted key legislative priorities for the upcoming session. A coalition of Oregon school administrators has identified ten critical issues, including the need to address unfunded mandates that strain district budgets, particularly concerning unemployment insurance for classified employees. The board is advocating for a reevaluation of how legislative costs impact school funding, aiming for a more sustainable financial model.

Another significant topic was the push to raise the special education funding cap from 11% to 15%, reflecting the growing needs of students requiring additional support. The board also called for full reimbursement for high-cost disability services, which currently only receive about 45% funding, placing further strain on district resources.

The meeting underscored the urgency of securing stable funding for K-12 facilities, as many districts struggle to pass bonds for necessary upgrades. The board is advocating for dedicated funding to address deferred maintenance and urgent repairs, ensuring that schools remain safe and conducive to learning.

As the legislative session approaches, the McMinnville School Board is poised to push for these critical changes, aiming to enhance educational outcomes and support for all students in the district.