During the recent Ketchikan Gateway Borough School Board meeting, discussions centered on enhancing communication and addressing parental concerns regarding student behavior and safety. Board members expressed appreciation for a presentation on bullying and misbehavior management, highlighting the importance of keeping parents informed. In response to requests from parents, the board agreed to send out a system-wide alert to remind families about bus rules and early release schedules, particularly for new parents navigating these changes.

The meeting also featured a report from the board clerk, who shared insights gained from attending the Alaska Association of School Boards (AASB) conference. She emphasized the need for improved board document management and communication practices, suggesting the adoption of new tools to enhance transparency and efficiency. The clerk recommended implementing roll call votes for virtual participation to align with best practices and proposed that committee reports be formalized to ensure all board members receive equal information.

Additionally, the clerk highlighted the necessity of reviewing outdated policies, particularly regarding executive sessions, class sizes, and cell phone regulations, to ensure compliance with current laws. Feedback from the conference indicated that some topics discussed in board meetings may not align with governance issues, prompting a reevaluation of agenda items to focus on essential business matters.

Looking ahead, the clerk aims to create a year-long board calendar to streamline operations and enhance team unity, alongside plans to improve the district's online presence. The meeting underscored the board's commitment to fostering a supportive educational environment and addressing community needs effectively.