The Yakima School District reported strong growth in dual-credit participation — 51% of high school students took at least one course in 2425 — and described partnerships with Yakima Valley College, Central Washington University and others. Presenters said a legislative proposal could reduce Running Start summer funding, affecting summer course availability.
Ridgeview Elementary Principal Christopher Whitehurst told the Yakima School District board that data-driven PLC work and inclusionary practices have improved outcomes; he said the school aims to raise the share of students with disabilities showing substantial growth to 45 percent and described schedules and interventions implemented to reach the goal.
Finance staff outlined bond proposals for rebuilding Hoover (about $85.2 million) and Garfield (about $83 million), reviewed renderings and a phased construction timeline, and gave tax-impact examples (about 80¢ per $1,000 assessed value). Board members raised community concerns about turf/stadium costs and access; the board later moved to executive session to evaluate a public employee.
The district reported a driver shortage limiting operations to about 57 routes on a two‑bell schedule and outlined a proposed four‑bell model to reduce simultaneous routes, cut transfers and make better use of a smaller driver pool; staff also described grant-funded electric-bus purchases and monitoring plans.
District leaders described a system of common end‑of‑unit assessments, principal cohorts and five core instructional practices—focusing on questioning and discussion techniques—to drive timely interventions and build instructional coherence across schools.
Finance staff said cash flow improved after repaying the tax‑anticipation note, but flagged a midyear enrollment drop of about 100 students and potential state funding cuts to levy equalization; the board approved the consent agenda and adopted the 2026–27 instructional calendar by voice vote.
Superintendent Christine Larson said the district has grant support for a full‑day summer program including morning enrichment and optional afternoon activities, bilingual registration, and a 90% attendance raffle offering bikes (grades 1–5) and AirPods (grades 6–9); staff said incentives are grant‑funded, not BEA money.
District staff presented a plan to remove early‑release Wednesdays and consolidate collaboration into expanded Monday sessions; the board directed staff to discuss the proposal with the Yakima Education Association and, if agreed, return a joint proposal at the next meeting.
McKinley Elementary Principal Amanda Voorhees told the Yakima School District board the school will prioritize math through data meetings, new coaching, and assessment targets: maintain 26 prior SBA passers and add 20 more (target 46), and reduce Level 1 students from 112 to 92.
The board approved policy governance ratings for Policy 1000.3 sections (0.8 and 0.9), reporting 100% compliance and no recommended amendments; motion was moved and seconded and the motion passed by voice vote.
