The Gateway School District board on its regular meeting discussed whether to keep a designated liaison to the Gateway Education Foundation and what that role should include.

Board members raised concern that the foundation’s bylaws have changed since the group’s inception and that the district currently lacks a clear, written description of a liaison’s duties. Trustees said the foundation is organized as a 501(c)(3) and that any district representative serving in an advisory capacity would not automatically have district voting authority on foundation matters.

Why it matters: The foundation organizes fundraising and community events that provide direct support to students and schools. Trustees said clearer liaison expectations would improve communication and enable the board to provide timely feedback to foundation leadership without unintentionally blurring the district’s governance responsibilities.

What trustees discussed: Some trustees said an advisory liaison is valuable for communication and offered to serve on a temporary basis until the new board takes office. Several trustees noted that Superintendent Dr. Rossi currently sits on the foundation board and is positioned to convey foundation activity directly to the district. Trustees discussed whether future liaisons should be appointed as a committee duty (similar to other community liaison assignments) and whether the position should be formalized in board procedures.

Fundraising and events: Trustees reviewed upcoming foundation activities, including Target’s “Heroes and Helpers” program (the foundation reportedly budgets $100 per child for that program), a Macy’s shopping event paired with National Honor Society volunteers, and a foundation gala with published ticket pricing: $85 for an individual, $150 for a couple and a $10 discount for Gateway-affiliated guests (details posted on the foundation website). Board members asked staff to provide more detailed information about event logistics and ticketing.

Next steps: Trustees asked staff to collect the foundation’s current bylaws and a written description of any expected liaison duties. One board member said she will continue in the liaison role through the current term and recommended the board clarify expectations so that successors understand the advisory limits, communication responsibilities and any time commitments. No formal motion or vote was recorded to change the district’s liaison policy during the meeting.

Context: The foundation’s activities were discussed alongside broader community support items the board noted during administrative reports, including multiple donation commitments and community service partnerships that provide student clothing, backpacks and other supports.