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District outlines integrated student and family supports; foundation funding highlighted
Summary
District staff described an integrated approach to supports for students and families, noting a rise in special education percentages (~15%), the school‑based mental health team (9 therapists, 1 manager), recent service counts (198 students served last year; 111 since July), and foundation funding that typically runs about $90,000 a year for direct family supports.
District staff presented the Family and Student Services update, describing an integrated approach that connects classroom instruction with family supports, special education accommodations and school‑based mental health.
Byron Betheards and program leads Sarah Devine (Family Outreach Supervisor) and Megan Noel (Program Coordinator) reviewed data and services. They reported the district’s special education population has grown from about 11% historically to roughly 15% of students; about 9% of students receive 504 accommodations. Staff said last year the school‑based mental‑health program served 198 students; since a July reinstitution they have served 111 students and now have nine therapists and one program manager. The team also noted about 151 clients in the program are Medicaid‑eligible.
Sarah Devine explained that the district tracks services by family and not just by student, and that the foundation is a primary funding source for direct family support. She said the foundation‑supported portion of the program budget is typically around $90,000 per year, with variations depending on grants and available community resources. Devine said foundation funds are used as a last resort when other community resources are exhausted.
Board members asked about emerging needs and metrics; members requested more measurable outcomes that could demonstrate how investments in family supports correlate with improvements in attendance or reading scores. Staff said they will continue to refine measurement strategies, and emphasized that many services are contractually supported in partnership with community organizations such as Benton County health navigators and the Public Schools Foundation.
No board action was taken; the presentation closed with plans to continue data collection and storytelling to raise awareness of family needs and program impacts.
