Astoria School Board adopts 2026–27 local service plan, honors students and approves routine budget and proclamation items

The Astoria School District Board of Directors voted to adopt the 2026–27 local service plan and approved a series of routine measures at its regular meeting, while recognizing students for improved attendance and hearing a public comment about the academic calendar.

The meeting opened with roll call, the pledge of allegiance and a reading of the district's mission and vision. "Tonight, the Astoria School Board is honored to recognize a truly remarkable and diverse group of students," the presenter said as the board called up November attendance honorees from across the district.

Why it matters: The local service plan governs the services the regional Education Service District (ESD) will provide to component districts and how state school-fund allotments are allocated through the ESD. Adoption is required by boards in the ESD region before a March 1 deadline and enables shared services such as technology, specialized therapists and early-literacy supports.

ESD presentation and board vote An ESD representative described the three-part local service plan (core services, a menu of optional services and integrated support for the Student Success Act) and explained the funding model, saying the ESD receives a share of the state school fund and distributes a portion to component districts. The presenter stated that the plan must be adopted by local boards and then approved by two-thirds of component districts representing a majority of pupils before March 1.

After discussion, a board member moved to approve the 2026–27 local service plan; the motion was seconded and the board recorded its approval by voice vote.

Budget and grants In the executive finance report, staff said the short legislative session (scheduled to end March 8) could affect district calculations. The superintendent told the board she will bring a supplemental budget request next month after discovering the district was underbudgeted for federal special-revenue (Title) funds; she said a comprehensive literacy grant for the year was $300,000 and that unexpectedly the district had access to roughly $100,000 more in Title funds this year.

Student recognition and district indicators Board members recognized students for consistent or improved attendance across elementary, middle and high schools. The presenter emphasized attendance as an investment in instructional time and community connection.

Administrators also reported preliminary indicator results tied to the district strategic plan, including freshman "on-track" data and winter benchmark performance: second-grade winter benchmarks were described as strong while kindergarten assessment alignment issues were noted; staff described targeted fluency and comprehension interventions and Title I supports.

Public comment: classified staff pay and virtual SPED Kathy Thornton, who identified herself as a resident and long-time district employee, urged the board to consider classified employees' pay when changing the academic calendar. She said adding two Thanksgiving break days could shorten paychecks for 10‑month employees and asked that the board keep that impact in mind when finalizing calendars. Thornton also asked the board to provide demonstration or clearer models for virtual special education services, noting interest in how virtual SLPs and OTs are organized.

Other business and proclamations The board approved the consent agenda and adopted the 2027 budget calendar. It also approved license and administrative contract recommendations and proclaimed a National FFA Week in February 2026 and a Classified Employee Appreciation Week in March 2026 following student remarks from local FFA members.

Executive session and final action The board convened an executive session under cited ORS authority to consider real-property negotiation and personnel matters. After returning to open session, the board voted to dismiss the matter that had been heard in executive session and adjourned the meeting.

What’s next The board listed its next regular meeting for Wednesday, March 11, with a board session before the regular meeting.