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Patrons urge board to keep Lake Pend Oreille High School campus intact
Summary
Multiple public commenters, including students, teachers and longtime staff, urged trustees not to close or relocate Lake Pend Oreille High School or dismantle its at‑risk program; speakers said relocation to portables and staff reductions would harm vulnerable students and community ties.
A large portion of public comment addressed the proposal affecting Lake Pend Oreille High School (LPO). Brandon, who identified himself as an LPO alumnus and a current student beneficiary of the program, told the board he was “really pissed off to find out that they are trying to shut that place down” and said moving students to trailers behind a middle school would have harmed his educational trajectory.
Sandy Lang, a 21‑year library paraprofessional at LPO, called the building a historical and community landmark and urged the board to preserve the site. Teacher Brett Johnson said the proposed restructuring would remove a dedicated counselor and relocate vulnerable students to an inferior environment, which he said contradicted best practices and had raised concerns during the district’s recent accreditation review. Rand Rosecrans, who works with students in community service programs, told trustees the school provides stability and autonomy important for at‑risk students and asked the board to weigh community impact alongside budgetary figures.
Chair Williams thanked patrons for speaking, reiterated that the issue is not closed and said the board would continue to receive information. Public commenters repeatedly asked the board to prioritize the educational needs and stability of LPO students as staff refine options.
