Sublette board previews student A.I. policy, capital needs assessment and extracurricular proposals

At its April 7 meeting the Sublette USD No. 374 board reviewed several non‑binding items that the district plans to address in coming weeks, including a first reading of a student A.I. policy and a planned facilities needs assessment.

Brooke Patterson, MS/HS curriculum director, presented a proposed student A.I. policy that staff have drafted with emphasis so far on disciplinary measures and teacher input; the item was provided as a first read and the board is scheduled to consider it for a vote at the May meeting. Patterson said curriculum committees had contributed feedback and that the document remains under development.

Superintendent Rex Richardson told the board he had met with Derek from DCS and that DCS will perform a complete district needs assessment; DCS will present details and recommendations at the May board meeting. The board did not take action at this meeting but expects a fuller presentation next month.

Operational and extracurricular updates included a patron‑raised concern about irrigation efficiency. Richardson presented three years of water‑use data and explained sprinkler timers can operate during short rain or late snow; he said district staff are trying to conserve water while maintaining playing fields. A high‑school student circulated a petition showing 17 students interested in wrestling; the board agreed to explore feasibility and requirements before taking action. Board members also discussed whether to charge Sublette Summer Basketball to use district gyms—historically permitted without a fee—and suggested a reduced rate for Sublette athletes; the conversation was left open for future discussion.

The board heard other routine reports from principals and activity staff about upcoming events and assessment schedules but took no formal votes on these items.