Washington Elementary School District Acknowledges Indigenous Lands at Governing Board Meeting

The Washington Elementary School District (WESD) kicked off its regular governing board meeting on August 28, 2025, with a strong commitment to honoring local Indigenous communities. The meeting began with a moment of silence and a land acknowledgment, recognizing that the district operates on the ancestral lands of the O'odham and other Indigenous peoples. This acknowledgment highlights WESD's dedication to partnering with Native Nations and respecting their heritage and culture.

Board President Kyle Clayton led the meeting, which included the adoption of the agenda and approval of previous meeting minutes. The board members present included Vice President Lindsay Peterson, Jenny Abbot Berardi, and Bill Adams, who also led the Pledge of Allegiance.

The meeting's focus on land acknowledgment underscores WESD's ongoing efforts to foster inclusivity and respect within its diverse community. As the district continues to engage with Indigenous communities, it sets a precedent for educational institutions to recognize and honor the histories and cultures of the lands they occupy.