High school study focus of board work session

Last night during a public work session school board members began what is expected to be a lengthy process to develop a common vision for Walla Wallas high school experience.

School board President Anne Golden began the meeting explaining how post-election feedback following the rejected May 2006 bond issue pushed for this study. She said input called for more information on options for high school programs, facilities and concepts.

Numerous common themes surfaced from the school boards "Listening Campaign" including:

" Replace vs. remodel existing Wa-Hi buildings

" Second high school option

" College Place High School (future potential)

" Alternative Education (including Vocational Tech Center)

" Athletic facility options

Golden said it will be important from the outset to identify what outcomes this study is expected to produce and to develop parameters to help ensure the work is done efficiently.

Superintendent Rich Carter detailed an organization plan for creating a community led Task Force to oversee and manage the study. His plan includes a school board led process for identifying task force leaders and members.

Carter recommended a third-party facilitator to help maintain objectivity and provide support to the task force. His plan also calls on district administrators and staff to serve as technical advisors.

Golden said the next step is to develop a timeline for the next several months to keep the process moving along.