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Board discusses bullying response, SEL curriculum and possible K–6 social worker
Summary
Administrators outlined options for social-emotional curriculum and a nonprofit provider under consideration; board members asked for cost estimates and approved pursuing more information on hiring a K–6 social worker (approx. $65,000) with a July work session planned.
District administrators updated the board on plans to strengthen responses to bullying and to resume social-emotional learning supports that lapsed after COVID-era staffing changes.
The preschool/elementary report said the district previously used social-emotional and behavioral specialists but lost the social worker role after staffing changes. Kate Thompson (elementary administration) and other staff reported they are reviewing multiple curricula and have been contacted by a nonprofit that provides trained instructors, which could supplement district instruction if a fit is confirmed.
The administrator cautioned against publicly naming a curriculum prematurely. "I prefer not to name the specific curriculum right now because we all know that if I throw it out and say I'm just thinking about it, pretty soon that becomes gospel because it was said in a public forum," the speaker said.
Board members discussed rollout timing and staff capacity. The administration said any program would be introduced next school year in phases to limit strain on teachers during REACT-driven demands.
On resourcing, a board member asked what it would take to restore a dedicated K–6 social worker. The finance or administrative respondent provided an estimate "that'd be $65,000" and noted health and benefits variability could change the total. Members agreed it is worth exploring and recommended a July board work session to develop funding and role details.
The board did not adopt any curricular change at the meeting; members requested a written summary and a follow-up report once administrators have vetted curricular options and nonprofit capabilities.
