Board approves automatic accessible doors after heated debate; gym entries remain contested

The board debated whether to spend up to $31,621 in referendum funds to add automatic handicap‑accessible doors at multiple school entrances. Operations recommended a set of exterior and interior doors for both the middle/high school main/gym entrances and the elementary gym and main entry; the committee argued the change would improve accessibility at district events.

Board member Roy moved an amendment to limit the work to main entrances and exclude gym entrances, arguing the gym doors would rarely be used by people with a mobility impairment and the money could be spent on other educational needs. That amendment was seconded but failed on a board vote (the amendment lost 1–5). Proponents stressed inclusivity and told the board that visitors from other districts and grandparents often attend events and could face barriers without automatic doors. "We need to be making our schools more accessible and welcoming," one member said.

After the amendment failed, the board voted on the full operations recommendation to install the automatic doors at the identified locations; the motion passed 5–1. The administration said the work would be paid from referendum funds and noted code requires an automatic exterior door at the main entrance; the operations committee asked to add an interior automatic door at the elementary vestibule as an extra improvement.

Why it matters: The vote commits referendum dollars to accessibility improvements the board characterized as aligning with inclusivity goals; the item drew the meeting’s most forceful debate and illustrates tradeoffs boards face between accessibility and other capital priorities.

What happens next: Facilities staff will schedule the work and obtain firm quotes; administration will report back on timelines and any additional accessibility adjustments necessary for event logistics.