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District

July 13 Board Brief

Posted Date: 07/14/26 (01:30 PM)


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Here is a quick overview of our regular board meeting on July 13, 2026. Community members are always welcome to join! 

Recognitions/Presentations

Election of Board Officers
As this was the first meeting of the new school year, the board opened with the election of officers. James Hurst was elected board chair, Bonnie Luisi was elected vice chair, and Teri VanderStelt was elected second vice chair. 
[Click here to watch]

Public Comments and Communications

Public Comments
Two community members addressed the board. Charles Martin spoke about board governance, compliance, and transparency, sharing his perspective on the district's special education processes and encouraging continued public visibility into board decision-making. Tammy Fisher, a Hermiston swim coach, spoke in support of the proposed Hermiston Aquatic and Wellness Center before the City Council, sharing the growth and impact of the youth swim program on local students.
[Click here to watch]

HAT Report
Alayna Andrade, the new HAT president, shared updates on leadership transitions within the association, preparations for the upcoming bargaining process, and the group's priorities heading into the school year.
[Click here to watch]

Board and Business Reports

Board Reports
Board members shared updates from their work in the district over the past month, including a shout-out to a Hermiston High School senior selected as a statewide youth representative for a cooperative leadership program.
[Click here to watch]

Financial Report
Katie Saul, Director of Business Services, reported that revenue is down this month due to expected spring State School Fund corrections. Year-to-date savings across payroll and accounts payable total just over $1 million, and the projected ending fund balance is approximately 9.63%. The board discussed whether to transfer additional reserve funds to meet its 10% fund balance target, weighing the cost of doing so against next year's already tight budget.
[Click here to watch]

Superintendent's Office and Action Items

Superintendent's Report
Dr. Mooney distributed a policy packet containing upcoming policy revisions for first and second reads at future meetings. She also presented the strategic planning engagement report compiled by PacWest, summarizing findings from community and staff surveys. 
[Click here to watch]

Action Items
[Click here to watch]

Future Items
Upcoming dates include the New Teacher Welcome on August 10 at 7:30 a.m., the All-Staff Inservice (Kick-off) on August 21 at Kennison Stadium, and the first day of school for students on August 26. The board also discussed adding a future update on staffing changes tied to declining enrollment, and continuing conversations on the Intermediate School District transition.
[Click here to watch]

The next regular board meeting is August 10, 2026 at 6:00pm.

 


Hermiston School District
305 SW 11th Street, Hermiston, OR 97838
PH: 541-667-6000