Public commenters raise concerns about books, federal executive orders, school safety and special‑education services

A broad cross‑section of residents used the board’s public‑comment period to press the district on curriculum choices, federal executive actions, school safety and the delivery of student services.

Several speakers raised concerns about an allegedly inappropriate book read in a classroom. Sarah Hawkins said the material portrayed sexual activity between a college student and a high‑school student and criticized how authors portray age and relationships; she also cited alleged social‑media remarks by the teacher. In her remarks Hawkins said, in part, “This book had content in it such as, he had a dozen girls lined up ready to blow him.”

Other speakers framed national developments as possible drivers of local change. Ron Lippitt (public comment) and others pointed to a recent presidential executive order titled “ending radical indoctrination in K through 12 schooling,” saying the order raises questions about future federal funding compliance and content requirements. Commenters urged the district to monitor potential federal and state guidance and to consult legal counsel as needed.

Multiple speakers urged the district to prioritize safety. Melissa Paul repeated a long‑standing request for a trained, armed security guard at each school and asked for a public accounting of how a $1,400,000 safety and security grant will be spent if the district does not hire additional on‑site guards.

Public commenters also raised civil‑rights and services issues. Tim Sawmiller (commenter) recommended the board consider adopting a local “safe zone” resolution to limit immigration enforcement on school grounds and walked through legal distinctions among ICE administrative warrants, federal court warrants and administrative subpoenas. Another commenter, Kelly Shruba (special‑education educator), said a child at Oakley Park Elementary missed occupational‑therapy services between mid‑November and January and asked the district to improve communication when IEP services are interrupted.

Several speakers criticized district academic outcomes and rankings. Nancy Van Lewin (retired board member and union leader) urged colleagues not to use an elected board account to publicly criticize administration on assessment results; others — including Theresa Renard and Christie Russ — urged the board to make academic proficiency and literacy a higher priority and to increase transparency about academic goals and progress.

Board members listened without public dialogue during the comment period; the superintendent and staff subsequently addressed several items during administrative commentary and later agenda items.

Ending: Public comment spotlighted multiple concerns that the board and administration said they will track: curriculum content and complaint processes, potential impacts from federal directives, school safety staffing and use of grant funds, and continuity of IEP‑mandated services.