Board Highlights – April 16, 2026

The Moses Lake School District Board of Directors met on Thursday, April 16, beginning the evening with a required public hearing regarding findings previously presented by the Washington State Auditor at an earlier board meeting. The hearing provided an opportunity for transparency and public awareness as part of the formal process. 

Consent Agenda Approved

The Board approved the consent agenda, including:

• Personnel recommendations
• Accounts payable and payroll
• Contracts and donations
• Student travel requests, including activities such as JROTC and math team participation

Policy Adoption

The Board unanimously approved Policy 5254: Staff Expression, following its second reading. This policy provides clarity and guidance for staff regarding professional expression while supporting a respectful and effective learning environment.

Teaching & Learning Updates

Executive Director of Teaching & Learning Voni Walker presented on two important curriculum areas:

• Secondary English Language Arts (ELA) materials adoption
• Comprehensive Sexual Health Education (CSHE) materials update

These presentations reflect ongoing efforts to ensure instructional materials are aligned with standards and support student learning across grade levels. Both were passed by the Board.

Resolution Passed

The Board approved Resolution 2026-07, commemorating America’s 250^th anniversary, recognizing this historic milestone and its significance for students and the broader community.

Financial Oversight Committee

Michelle Musso, executive director of employee services, welcomed Citizen’s Financial Oversight Committee co-chairs Audra Eckenberg and Karl Ferranti, highlighting the importance of transparency, accountability, and community partnership in district finances. The chairs spoke about the importance of the work the committee is doing on behalf of the community. 

Community members interested in learning more about the Financial Oversight Committee are encouraged to email cfoc@mlsd161.org. The committee meets the fourth Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m. at the MLSD Learning Services Center.

Safety & Well-Being Update

Executive Director of Safety & Well-Being Scott West shared information about an upcoming Gang Awareness Community Event, scheduled for May 12 from 5:30–7:00 p.m. at Vanguard Academy. The event is designed to provide families and community members with information, resources, and awareness around gang activity and prevention.

Superintendent’s Report

Superintendent Carol Lewis shared highlights from recent visits in schools across the district, providing a firsthand look at teaching and learning in action.

She also provided an update on long-range facility and financial planning, noting that many district buildings are aging and require thoughtful, proactive planning for the future. This includes balancing facility needs with responsible management of the district’s general fund to support long-term financial health.

As part of this work, the Board reviewed enrollment projections through 2035, developed by a professional demographer. Superintendent Lewis noted that operating larger, more modern school buildings can be more cost-efficient than maintaining smaller, older facilities, particularly when considering staffing and long-term operational costs.

Legislative & WIAA Updates

Board member Mike Nordsten provided a legislative update. 

Board member Carla Urias also shared an update from the Washington Interscholastic Activities Association, highlighting current developments and considerations impacting high school athletics.

Closing

The meeting concluded with board and student representative comments before adjournment.