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Public comments urge more outreach on gun locks and music education; board approves consent agenda and an OSBA nomination
Summary
Public speakers urged the district to publicize free gun locks (only 15 distributed last year) and to protect/expand music education; the board approved the consent agenda and nominated Sean Gallagher for the OSBA Legislature/Policy Committee.
During public comment at the Nov. 20 meeting, community members asked the district to increase outreach on two fronts and the board completed routine business items including a consent agenda vote and a regional nomination.
Brandy Stillhammer, speaking for Central Oregon Gun Safety Advocates, urged the district to better publicize the availability of free gun locks at the education center and reported that "only 15 locks have been handed out in the past year." She asked whether counselors, nurses and principals were aware of the program and called on the district to step up communications and distribution after a firearm incident at Pilot Butte Middle School.
Parent and pediatric psychologist Jesse Bledsoe urged continued support for music education in elementary schools, saying music supports child and adolescent mental health and asking the board to preserve and expand opportunities.
On board business, Director Ross Tomlin moved to approve the consent agenda; Vice Chair Amy Tatum seconded the motion and the board approved the consent agenda by voice vote with no abstentions. Superintendent Dr. Cook noted the consent‑for‑information packet includes updated HR policies, an educational equity policy aligned with OSBA guidance, the 2025‑26 elementary commitments document, and an emergency declaration regarding water damage to the Pilot Butte Middle School gym from an Aug. 10 storm.
The board also voted to nominate Sean Gallagher for the Central Oregon seat on the Oregon School Boards Association (OSBA) Legislature/Policy Committee; the motion was moved by Director Amy Tatum and seconded by Director Ross Tomlin and approved by voice vote.
No contentious votes on policy changes took place at the meeting; board members directed staff to follow up on public‑comment requests and to add requested special‑education and staffing breakdowns to future board materials.
