At public comment, Jake Mendez Jr. alleged that a McFarland Middle School student with autism was mistreated in 2023 — including being underfed and encouraged to be coughed on by a teacher — and called for the superintendent to resign and for voters to oppose the district levy.
McFarland Middle School told the Othello School District board it scored an impact index of –3 for 2024–25, ranking 9th of 21 comparable schools; presenters cited strong teachers, six student essays this year and AVID supports, and said they will share midyear STAR math/ELA results soon.
Othello School District leaders told the board they temporarily revoked off‑campus privileges for hundreds of students after a trimester review and rolled out clearer parent communications, two‑lunch supervision, and targeted interventions to restore privileges.
Athletics director reported participation figures across schools and seasons, explained weekly eligibility checks and probation/support plans, and said the district fills coaching roles (including volunteers) while preparing to host regional tournaments.
The board approved the meeting agenda and required approvals unanimously, and approved accounts payable warrants #2 with a 4‑0 vote and one abstention; no additional details about the abstention were provided in the transcript.
District leaders told the board the new legislative session offers limited new revenue; MSOC funding and protection from unfunded mandates were top priorities, and staff outlined outreach plans for the district levy ahead of ballot timing.
The board honored a three‑person feedback team from Ludicago Elementary for a 'see it, name it, do it' coaching model that provides in‑class instructional feedback and supports to teachers and students.
District staff presented a data analysis showing four Othello elementary schools exceeded predicted performance when accounting for percentages of English learners and low-income students; presenters said the analysis supports levy messaging and future investments.
Superintendent Pete Perez described plans to buy lighter, booth-style lunchroom furniture to add 60–80 seats and improve student experience; he also reported improved supervision and safer traffic patterns after changes to off-campus lunch protocols at the high school.
A Future Ready committee recommended the Othello School District seek a four‑year replacement educational programs and operations levy at $1.50 per $1,000 assessed value to preserve Local Effort Assistance, stabilize finances and fund staff, activities and student supports; the board may consider a resolution Dec. 8 for a Feb. 10 election.