School Board Approves Westview High School Turf Installation and Forms Superintendent Search Committee

The Beaverton School District's recent board meeting highlighted significant decisions regarding the installation of synthetic turf at Westview High School and the formation of a new superintendent search committee.

The board unanimously approved the consent agenda, setting the stage for further discussions. A key topic was the proposed multiuse synthetic turf for Westview High School's baseball and softball fields. While the majority supported the installation, Board Member Dr. Carpenter voiced concerns about the potential health risks associated with artificial turf, citing orthopedic injuries and environmental impacts from microplastics. He emphasized his consistent opposition to turf installations, urging caution for the health of student athletes.

District staff reassured board members that comprehensive studies have shown no safety violations related to turf fields in Oregon. They noted that this project is part of the 2022 bond campaign and will complete the installation of baseball and softball fields across all six comprehensive high schools in the district. Ultimately, the contract was approved with a vote of 6-1, with Dr. Carpenter dissenting.

In addition to the turf discussion, the board established an ad hoc committee to oversee the upcoming superintendent search. This temporary committee will gather information, review proposals for executive search services, and recommend finalists to the full board. The committee's formation received unanimous support, with board members expressing a commitment to transparency throughout the process.

As the district moves forward with these initiatives, the decisions made during this meeting are poised to impact student facilities and leadership in the coming years.