Students, parents and teachers urge board to save Aspire magnet program and middle-school sports after levy defeat

Dozens of students, parents and staff urged the Battle Ground School District board April 28 not to cut the Aspire highly capable magnet program and to preserve middle-school athletics after a replacement levy failed.

Students from third grade through high school described Aspire as a place where they were challenged, made lasting friendships and gained access to academic and extracurricular opportunities they said would vanish without the magnet program. "Aspire is a place where kids like me can work on group projects together and think freely," said fifth-grader Everett Jones. "Please save Aspire," he added.

Multiple students described being bored in regular classrooms and said the magnet program offered work at the right level and a peer group where they felt they belonged. Third-grader Elliot told the board, "Please fund us, it's really fun and enjoyable, and I know some second graders who are really smart. I think they should have a challenge too." Older students and alumni recounted opportunities tied to Aspire, including National History Day competition success and music and robotics activities that, speakers said, would be less accessible if the program ends.

Parents and staff made similar points. Jennifer Merritt identified herself as "program coordinator for the Aspire Highly Capable Program" and warned that removing the program without an evidence-based alternative would push high-capability students into classrooms that cannot meet their pace and depth. Teacher Kimberly Visocki said the magnet model also brings revenue to the district by accepting some out-of-district students and that withdrawing the program risks increased behavioral issues and academic disengagement among gifted students.

Several parents requested more time for community-led solutions. "Don't make the decision on cutting the Aspire program tonight. Let us form a committee of the willing that will bring a proposal back to you," parent Michelle Cathcart said, offering to pursue private fundraising, grants and other options to preserve the program.

Speakers also urged the board to preserve middle-school sports, crossing guards and school safety staffing. Students explained how school sports supported physical health, social connections and academic motivation: "They get to experience teamwork and confidence," said a parent and volunteer; other students noted that participation has raised grades for kids who must maintain eligibility.

Board and staff responses

Board members acknowledged the testimony and said they empathized with students and families while stressing the district's constrained options after the levy loss. Superintendent Denny and CFO Michelle Scott said the district would explore mitigation strategies, including community partnerships, volunteer capacity and possible targeted use of fund balance, but cautioned that some savings would be required immediately to meet statutory deadlines and maintain payroll.

Next steps

Speakers requested a formal avenue for parents, students and staff to propose alternatives; several board members signaled openness to community committees and pledged to consider feasible proposals as staff continue finalizing the budget.