Quick Guide: Hillsboro School Board Position 3 Issue Monte Akers Martin Granum Budget & Funding Supports pursuing additional funding through the proposed bond, future levy, and lobbying the state. Thinks the school district budget could be more efficient Supports pursuing additional funding through the proposed bond, future levy, and lobbying the state. Thinks the school district budget is very efficient. Contraceptives at school-based health clinics Voted No Supports contraceptives with parental notification Would revisit, vote yes Supports equitable access to healthcare for male and female students. Strategies for increasing graduation rate Accountability: Goal of increasing the graduation rate by 1% each year is tied to the Superintendent’s evaluation and the district’s Strategic plan. Emphasis on the Quality Education Model, particularly[…]

There are eleven candidates running for four positions on the Hillsboro School Board, but after the April 6 candidate forum hosted by 350pdx did not make it easier to differentiate between their positions.  The ten candidates present (Jennifer Brandse did not attend) appeared collegial and largely agreed with one another during the panel.  At one moment, Monte Akers (incumbent) raised a yellow “agree” sign while his opponent, Martin Granum, was speaking. Few questions brought sharply different answers from candidates. They’re all concerned about the projected budget shortfall next year. They spoke in favor of a proposed bond and of partnering with businesses and non-profit organizations in the community.  They all mentioned protecting classrooms and students from any cuts they need[…]

The March 14  Hillsboro School board meeting was standing room only.  In addition to the blue Hilhi shirts worn in support of Adam Reese, which have become standard at recent meetings, a group of students and families from the Brookwood Elementary School STEAM club were present to present their windmill projects.  Another group of students and parents were present to represent the Chicas Youth Development Program. Public comment was again dominated by students and parents speaking on behalf of former Hilhi football and wrestling coach Adam Reese.  They asserted that the issue is now a Level 3 grievance and would be coming before the school board.  Members of the school board reiterated that they do not hire or fire coaches[…]

Supporters of Adam Reese, the former Hillsboro High School (Hilhi) football and wrestling coach, made up the bulk of public comments at Hillsboro School board meetings tonight, despite the board stating that board members cannot discuss personnel matters publicly. Reese was placed on administrative leave in October, but continues to teach at Hilhi. Three parents and one student expressed their support for Reese, and their frustration with the decision-making process, which has now lasted for nearly five months.  One mother wore a blue “We Stand With Reese” t-shirt.  Another parent suggested the board spend more time on  working to improve test scores and less time investigating coaches. Board members do not respond during public comment. At the end of the[…]