Parents press board on rushed restructuring as FBLA students showcase successes; athletic director announces retirement

Public comment at the meeting included a lengthy letter and multiple speakers urging the board to reconsider the pace and scope of proposed restructuring. A parent who submitted a letter (identified as Linda Bridal) said closing two elementary schools, restructuring grade levels and changing start and end times all at once felt rushed, and she urged staggered start times, reconsideration of weekly Wednesday half days and attention to transportation challenges for families who currently walk.

An educator who addressed the board urged a clear, public definition of "true inclusion" and questioned whether returning or rehired staff would address stagnant reading and math scores; she called for transparent, team-based instructional approaches to ensure students remain in peer-grade classrooms with appropriate modifications.

Separately, Lincoln High School’s FBLA advisers and student representatives described competitive successes—20 students advanced to state and six to nationals last year—and explained club activities including forensic accounting (the team placed third in state), fundraising and community service. Athletic Director Stan Dietrich announced he has submitted his retirement paperwork, thanked the district and community, and said he will be available to assist during transition.

Board members acknowledged the concerns, noted plans to communicate schedule changes, and said staff would bring some items back for further discussion where needed.