Washington’s School Board recognized outstanding student achievement, heard a report on the innovative dual language program, and gave approval for the next step in the Hatchet Hollow renovation at their meeting Thursday evening.
The Board and Superintendent Kevin Frank presented this year’s Lily Scholarship recipient, Jayden Meredith, with a certificate recognizing this outstanding honor. Jayden, a senior at WHS, is the son of Matt and Brenda Meredith.
The board then heard a report from the Dual Language Immersion Program Committee. The committee consists of Washington Primary Principal Tom Lee and teachers Kristen Murphy, Kristin McGuire, Brenda Meredith, and Shannon Strange. Lee said there would be a parent meeting on January 30 so families of incoming kindergarten students can learn more about the program. Lee said the plan is to begin the program in kindergarten next year and then expand it as the initial class moves through the school system. Lee says that studies show that bilingual students, overall, do better in academic achievement and college admission and are sought after by employers. The plan is to begin the program with 48 students in two classes evenly divided between boys and girls and native English and native Spanish speakers. Parents must request that their student be enrolled in the program. Lee said if more than 48 students request admission, the school will hold a lottery among the applicants. Lee emphasized that the program will meet all state and local standards.
Scott Neidigh gave the board a report on the upcoming presentation by former NBA player Chris Herren. Herren will speak to Washington students in grades 6 through 12 the morning of Jan. 26. That evening, at 6:00 p.m., he will give a presentation open to all members of the community in the WHS Auditorium. Neidigh especially thanked Washington businesses that helped sponsor this special program.
The Board also took the next step in the renovation of Hatchet Hollow and gave the architect permission to advertise for bids. Bids will be due at 2:00 pm, Feb. 14. The Board also voted to move the February meeting to the 15th, to avoid a conflict with the annual CEO program. The Board will hear the architect’s recommendations on the Hatchet Hollow bids at its February meeting.
