Ketchikan School District Discusses Homeless Count and Upcoming Superintendent Search Meeting

A productive meeting between Ketchikan Gateway Borough officials and the Ketchikan Indian Community (KIC) bridal council highlighted key priorities and concerns regarding local education and community support. Superintendent Ford Slack reported on the progress made in addressing requests from the tribal council, emphasizing the importance of timely communication and collaboration.

One significant topic was the homeless student count, which has faced scrutiny for not being conducted correctly. Superintendent Slack acknowledged past shortcomings in the reporting process and outlined steps being taken to improve accuracy. This includes training staff to recognize and report instances of homelessness within the school community, ensuring that all students in need receive appropriate support.

The meeting also set the stage for the upcoming superintendent search, with an initial meeting scheduled for October 8. This search is crucial as the district aims to find a leader who can navigate the challenges ahead, particularly in light of declining enrollment numbers that could impact funding.

Public comments during the meeting raised concerns about changes to the agenda structure, specifically the relocation of public comment to a later position. Community members expressed worries that this shift could hinder direct communication with the board. Additionally, questions were raised regarding the district's legal expenses and the perceived over-reliance on legal counsel for issues that could be managed internally.

As the school year approaches, the district is under pressure to address these concerns and ensure that all students receive the support they need. The upcoming meetings and training sessions are expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the district's approach to these challenges.