Student reps praise staff support; one student raises concern about college readiness in science

Student representatives Kylee O’Brien and Madison O’Brien told the board they value the attention staff give students and the small‑community environment of the schools. Kylee, who has attended Santiam since kindergarten, said she appreciates staff care; Madison, who transferred from Cascade, said she feels well supported and cited close staff-student relationships as a highlight.

Kylee raised a concern about her prior science instruction and its effect on college readiness. She said she did not feel adequately prepared for college‑level science courses and feared it may affect her future goals; Kylee told the board she plans to attend Chemeketa Community College to pursue dental hygiene, and Madison plans to attend Chemeketa to become a veterinary technician.