Board adopts resolution urging Congress to make Johnson O—Malley funding mandatory and forward-funded
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Summary
After a first reading and discussion about advocacy process, the board unanimously approved a resolution supporting forward funding and mandatory status for Johnson O'Malley (JOM) funds to provide predictable support for Native American and Alaska Native students.
The Central Consolidated Schools board voted to adopt a resolution urging Congress to modify Johnson O'Malley (JOM) funding mechanisms so the program is forward-funded and part of mandatory spending.
Miss Chappelle read the resolution at length, citing the JOM Act's history and arguing that reimbursement-based and discretionary funding creates uncertainty for programs serving American Indian and Alaska Native students. The resolution describes the value of forward funding for planning, multi-year program sustainability and protecting students from interruptions caused by appropriations delays.
Board members discussed the resolution and one board member asked whether Miss Chappelle's attendance at the National Johnson O'Malley Association conference was authorized by a board majority. Chappelle said she donates travel expenses for such trips and that the board president has authority under policy to undertake advocacy, but the board member requested documentation of authorization and transparency for future travel.
A motion to adopt the resolution was made, seconded and approved by roll-call vote.
What happens next: With board adoption, the district's position will be part of its federal advocacy record; implementation beyond advocacy would depend on further outreach to congressional offices and NJOMA (National Johnson O'Malley Association) coordination.