Communications committee maps May 5 community forum with student panelists to showcase school programs

Committee members detailed plans for the district’s spring community forum, scheduled for May 5 from 6:30 to 8 p.m., which will combine a short overview presentation with a student-and-parent panel highlighting academic and extracurricular programs.

Members said the host presentation will be brief (about 10 minutes) and that the panel should include three student representatives who can speak to athletics, the arts and elective programs. The goal is to show a range of student experiences so families — especially elementary parents — can see how programs at the middle and high school levels will benefit their children.

Discussion highlighted specific district offerings to feature, including the school’s automotive and construction programs, an on-campus bee farm and planned upgrades to library media centers, middle-school athletic fields and late-bus support. Committee members said these program highlights are the kinds of anecdotes and concrete benefits that resonate with families.

The committee agreed to advertise the forum through PTSO and student-happenings lists, ask current parent board members to serve on the panel where appropriate, and supply starter questions to the moderator so the program opens with clear, audience-friendly prompts. Student board representatives Janet (a junior) and Sophia were mentioned as ongoing channels for student participation.

Members also discussed logistics for encouraging parental and student attendance and the possibility of running a virtual session beforehand next year to increase reach.

The forum remains set for May 5; committee staff will finalize the panel and promotional materials.