WEBVTT
00:00:00.000 --> 00:00:10.278
welcome to season two of our believe it's through and understanding is created.
00:00:10.278 --> 00:00:20.760
And we have a real treat for you We're going to start this new script completely and turning podcast host today.
00:00:20.760 --> 00:00:28.320
And so we have the one and only So we'll welcome her to the podcast today and we'll get started.
00:00:32.158 --> 00:00:33.478
Thank you so much, Dr. Ward.
00:00:33.478 --> 00:00:42.359
I'm honored to be a co host or a And so you do this all the time, You know, just in my spare time, Yeah.
00:00:42.359 --> 00:00:46.478
So like when we asked you to do and said, let's go.
00:00:46.478 --> 00:00:50.719
I've been waiting for you to Well, it turns out you didn't Here we are.
00:00:50.719 --> 00:00:51.719
Episode one.
00:00:51.719 --> 00:00:55.520
No, I am really excited to host with you, especially on this topic.
00:00:55.520 --> 00:01:00.789
I think there's a lot of great questions out there that impact all of us in the district and the community.
00:01:00.789 --> 00:01:05.150
and I'm so thankful to be able with you both.
00:01:05.150 --> 00:01:06.510
So what is the topic today?
00:01:06.510 --> 00:01:12.390
Out of curiosity, what are we It's all about our levy and our paths forward, um, as a district.
00:01:12.390 --> 00:01:14.670
So that's what we're, we're going to go ahead and get started with.
00:01:14.670 --> 00:01:34.989
And I think a wonderful place to Doctor Ward was just looking at When you look at it, where do How would you describe where we So I think it's really important to kind of just state from the beginning how proud I am to serve as superintendent of Willoughby-Eastlake schools and what a remarkable community we live in.
00:01:34.989 --> 00:01:37.349
And we serve seven cities.
00:01:37.349 --> 00:01:43.629
We've got about six thousand three hundred kids and about sixty six thousand people that live on the West end of Lake County.
00:01:43.629 --> 00:01:56.108
And so the heartbeat of any good the school and the way that school, I think, says a lot your, your system.
00:01:56.108 --> 00:02:05.828
And so I was just at the Um, and you know, what a wonderful rallying cry for a community to rally around its football team.
00:02:05.828 --> 00:02:06.549
Right?
00:02:06.549 --> 00:02:12.750
Uh, I went to the other side of The south end also saw, uh, the community out to support, uh, athletics.
00:02:12.750 --> 00:02:18.628
Uh, and so from the state of the community perspective, I think you'll find a lot of pride out there.
00:02:18.628 --> 00:02:24.530
You'll find a lot of support and families that, uh, call end of Lake County home.
00:02:24.530 --> 00:02:27.408
And so I think the school districts in a really great place.
00:02:27.408 --> 00:02:33.008
I spent, we spent two years some core priorities.
00:02:33.008 --> 00:02:38.210
Uh, and we've worked to put support a future ready student.
00:02:38.210 --> 00:03:04.758
Um, you know, we asked in 2023 a And that question was, you know, our students will be ready for Uh, we listened, listened to We listened to civic leaders, we parents and teachers and ready in the twenty first uh, check boxes in different The ones that you and I probably experienced when we were in school.
00:03:04.758 --> 00:03:19.199
And so our students need to be communicators, critical And so a lot of our work in the building a system around that And so I'm proud to say those They're in place.
00:03:19.199 --> 00:03:25.158
We continue to to stay very sharply focused on our shared vision together.
00:03:25.158 --> 00:03:30.400
I am I am so excited to hear you the opportunity to live it.
00:03:30.400 --> 00:03:34.280
Being a building principal, I staff and our students.
00:03:34.280 --> 00:03:40.758
I know we put a lot of things in place, but being able to have the opportunity to see it put into practice, it is so exciting.
00:03:40.758 --> 00:03:56.758
And I feel like when I think I'm excited for our students, I'm excited for all of us who Um, and so I feel so, um, so hopeful and energized by the work that we're doing as a district.
00:03:56.758 --> 00:04:06.949
So I'm excited that you shared, shared that with us and kind of let us go behind the scenes of what you've been putting into place these last couple of years that we've been able to, as a as a whole community, really rally around.
00:04:06.949 --> 00:04:21.588
So getting into more of the topic of our podcast, beyond just the shared vision, um, how do you think that proposed income tax levy fits into the district's shared vision and our priorities that you talked about?
00:04:21.588 --> 00:04:27.949
So I think that's a really good And so when you talk about future readiness, you know, we've talked about future ready academics.
00:04:27.949 --> 00:04:33.829
We've talked about future ready opportunities for kids, uh, in career technical education and workforce development.
00:04:33.829 --> 00:04:39.189
Uh, you know, with regards to athletics, music arts, um, we've talked about future ready communication.
00:04:39.189 --> 00:04:45.069
How do you reach and connect So they hear the message and can be engaged in their school community.
00:04:45.069 --> 00:04:53.389
And so I think one of the questions that's still lingering out there that we have to wrestle with is, what is what does it mean to be future ready when it comes to our school finances?
00:04:53.389 --> 00:05:03.470
Um, you know, how do we explain West end of Lake County how Um, how do we explain the impact of legislation on school funding?
00:05:03.470 --> 00:05:07.990
How do we explain the history of Willoughby Eastlake and how we are funded?
00:05:07.990 --> 00:05:09.389
Because we are very unique.
00:05:09.389 --> 00:05:09.990
Yes.
00:05:09.990 --> 00:05:24.430
And so how do you take something Um, and educate and inform, uh, you know, give people the information they need to understand it and then attempt to pivot to a different path for the future.
00:05:24.430 --> 00:05:35.629
Uh, and that's the essence of last several years is building had to ask the question, all finances look like?
00:05:35.629 --> 00:05:41.709
What are some of the prudent things we should be doing as a district to solve some of our longstanding challenges?
00:05:41.709 --> 00:05:43.550
Um, and ultimately, it's simple.
00:05:43.550 --> 00:05:50.750
Like we, we ultimately ask the The community gives us a to make sense of it.
00:05:50.750 --> 00:05:59.750
And the board gives us Uh, and so all of that comes together in this unique moment we're in right now where we're, we're really wrestling with that big question.
00:05:59.750 --> 00:06:06.620
And I think making sure that what you've talked about all along is that our shared vision is protected no matter what what happens.
00:06:06.620 --> 00:06:09.740
And I think that that gives everybody hope to be able to move forward.
00:06:09.740 --> 00:06:19.019
And I know you spoke to this these levys and how schools are And I have to say, going to trying to figure it out.
00:06:19.019 --> 00:06:21.740
And that is why I'm so glad we here with us today.
00:06:21.740 --> 00:06:28.500
Nick, can you talk a little bit tax and who who pays it?
00:06:28.500 --> 00:06:29.019
Yes.
00:06:29.019 --> 00:06:30.220
Um great question.
00:06:30.220 --> 00:06:35.939
This is actually an earned So there are two different types of income taxes that a school could utilize.
00:06:35.939 --> 00:06:42.579
And this is an earned income So this is for any resident within the Willoughby-eastlake school district.
00:06:42.579 --> 00:06:57.019
So regardless of where you work And this is on active wages or So if you get a W-2 or you're working and get a ten ninety nine, it would be applied to those wages.
00:06:57.019 --> 00:07:04.980
So it would not be on Social security, pensions, investment income or anything that would be considered passive.
00:07:04.980 --> 00:07:09.019
So it would just be on active Awesome.
00:07:09.019 --> 00:07:09.579
Thank you so much.
00:07:09.579 --> 00:07:17.019
I think that that's that's heard a lot of what exactly is What does it mean for us?
00:07:17.019 --> 00:07:18.060
How does it help us?
00:07:18.060 --> 00:07:24.500
So I do think the biggest question of all is what happens after the results of the levy come out?
00:07:24.500 --> 00:07:25.899
What happens if it passes?
00:07:25.899 --> 00:07:27.338
What happens if it fails?
00:07:27.338 --> 00:07:38.660
I think that that graphic that about the paths forward was so I had a parent, we had an event, a paint night at our school last week, and a parent came to me and said, that was such a helpful graphic.
00:07:38.660 --> 00:07:43.500
So if people haven't seen that yet, I got a plug to go look at that, that graphic about the paths forward.
00:07:43.500 --> 00:07:51.459
But could you could you speak to are the two paths that voters Yeah.
00:07:51.459 --> 00:07:56.019
So if you've lived here a long time, you understand that we've been in levy cycles before, right?
00:07:56.019 --> 00:07:59.300
Like we've had perpetual periods where we're constantly on the ballot.
00:07:59.300 --> 00:08:03.209
And during those periods of here's the levee.
00:08:03.209 --> 00:08:06.810
Here are the things we're going And if it passes or fails.
00:08:06.810 --> 00:08:07.610
It was clear, right?
00:08:07.610 --> 00:08:11.930
This stuff was going to go away offer those opportunities.
00:08:11.930 --> 00:08:28.528
Now this particular initiative This particular initiative is about, again, making sure that the shared vision remains out front, that the opportunities and the academics and the workforce development continue to be top of mind and areas that we continue to invest in as a school system.
00:08:28.528 --> 00:08:40.889
And the fundamental question, I you know, in path one, do you two high schools or in path two, around one high school?
00:08:40.889 --> 00:08:47.649
I think the other two questions that, that we're wrestling with as a school district are securing stable funding for the future.
00:08:47.649 --> 00:09:00.649
Um, you know, it's important for we talk about future proofing secure and stable source of strategically for the future.
00:09:00.649 --> 00:09:05.639
The other question under consideration is how do we maintain our facilities and our current footprint?
00:09:05.639 --> 00:09:07.639
How do we upkeep our facilities?
00:09:07.639 --> 00:09:16.620
How do we protect the investment know, came online in 2019 So deteriorate as well.
00:09:16.620 --> 00:09:25.178
And so this initiative is really It's about protecting some permanent improvement fund for the future.
00:09:25.178 --> 00:09:29.418
And then it's about building a school campus, right?
00:09:29.418 --> 00:09:44.860
And so when we say one vision, two paths, we're saying, um, two high schools, um, and building efficiencies around that model or one high school and building efficiencies around that model, all while trying to protect the things that we talked about earlier.
00:09:44.860 --> 00:09:58.658
No matter what, no matter what, I love that is the center of all No matter what, our students are those incredible experiences, what matters to them in terms of that looks like.
00:09:58.658 --> 00:10:03.500
So, um, there have been there's been a lot of chatter all over social media.
00:10:03.500 --> 00:10:11.940
Different places with lots of Um, on our website, we do have a questions, those FAQs.
00:10:11.940 --> 00:10:14.379
And I chose a couple of them that maybe we could work through.
00:10:14.379 --> 00:10:24.940
I know people could go to the them to, but just hearing from So, um, the first one was just the district already done?
00:10:24.940 --> 00:10:29.940
What have we put in place already to, to address some of these issues?
00:10:29.940 --> 00:10:30.139
Yeah.
00:10:30.139 --> 00:10:34.740
And so I think, you know, Nick authority as well.
00:10:34.740 --> 00:10:40.658
Um, but, you know, every year forecast twice a year, right?
00:10:40.658 --> 00:10:53.178
And so we saw a forecast in the And then we put some cost saving We made some reductions, we made And then our new forecast came out and it looked a little bit better.
00:10:53.178 --> 00:11:02.370
And so that's how quickly things where you've got legislation you've got on the front line.
00:11:02.370 --> 00:11:07.450
Um, this kind of like, uh, rapidly changing, uh, financial outlook.
00:11:07.450 --> 00:11:12.490
And so you're always constantly decisions in the moment based on front of you.
00:11:12.490 --> 00:11:21.250
So when you talk explicitly done, if you want to go ahead think it'd be important for Yeah, absolutely.
00:11:21.250 --> 00:11:29.210
Um, so one thing that we did, um, it's been a couple years now was try to address health care, health insurance.
00:11:29.210 --> 00:11:44.490
Uh, that was something that the unions worked together to try to costs, which I think a lot of And I think maybe that's just across the, you know, the nation.
00:11:44.490 --> 00:11:46.928
So I think that's been great.
00:11:46.928 --> 00:11:56.610
Um, I'm sure everyone's seeing those emails being sent out by the committee talking about different changes, but, um, in terms of a cost savings, it's been fantastic.
00:11:56.610 --> 00:12:02.320
And the ability to stave off, um, some of those larger financial pressures.
00:12:02.320 --> 00:12:15.639
Um, another thing was with some dedicated capital dollars, we purchased back the school bus fleet, which was something that was outsourced with the transportation provider.
00:12:15.639 --> 00:12:21.879
We were able to purchase those back and no longer incur leasing costs.
00:12:21.879 --> 00:12:53.360
So interest payments every month So now the district owns all the school buses and is in charge of replacing or keeping that fleet up to date, but not paying those interest costs every month, um, securing a relatively large literacy grant, um, with the help of, you know, people across many different departments, um, don't even think there are that many schools within the state that receive this, but it was a two point one million dollar literacy grant.
00:12:53.360 --> 00:12:55.320
So that was fantastic.
00:12:55.320 --> 00:12:59.840
Um, and I have to say, speaking benefits from that?
00:12:59.840 --> 00:13:03.558
That is that's huge for for what we're able to do for our students.
00:13:03.558 --> 00:13:15.158
And we're seeing the gains from So even though it's been a a kind of, um, build on that and So sorry to interrupt.
00:13:15.158 --> 00:13:23.879
You just have to just had to say Well, I like that because what you're saying is that coherence we're bringing to literacy, you know, k k almost eight now, right?
00:13:23.879 --> 00:13:26.820
As you say K-5 But we've expanded it through the middle level now.
00:13:26.820 --> 00:13:31.480
So K-8 you know assuring that you have that science of reading aligned solid literacy foundation.
00:13:31.480 --> 00:13:31.798
Yes.
00:13:31.798 --> 00:13:38.960
Ultimately translates to improve student outcomes and begins to build again the foundation for that kind of future ready learner, right?
00:13:38.960 --> 00:13:39.798
One hundred percent.
00:13:39.798 --> 00:13:47.320
Um, and so it's good to hear level, what's going on in our that grant comes to life, right?
00:13:47.320 --> 00:13:56.440
Um, and the, the impact that it has on a daily basis is, is really exciting to see in preparing our students, you have to be able to read in whatever you do.
00:13:56.440 --> 00:14:02.428
And so I think that having that all of us and our teachers too.
00:14:02.428 --> 00:14:07.590
So you can't take the host out So I'm just going to now turn and flip it back for just a moment here.
00:14:07.590 --> 00:14:08.070
Okay, okay.
00:14:08.070 --> 00:14:24.889
Because like as a as a building think about, you know, CKLA and of the gains you're seeing are the top two things that couple of years in what we've Are you talking about results or just just what we've been able to do?
00:14:24.889 --> 00:14:29.288
Either one, I think, would be viewers to kind of hear about.
00:14:29.288 --> 00:14:35.450
For me, the two obviously biggest components are the people who are doing the work and then also the resources that we're using.
00:14:35.450 --> 00:14:42.048
I feel like in the past, um, you know, districts across the state were really focused on the resources we were using to teach reading.
00:14:42.048 --> 00:14:46.928
We would be trying to buy different things to be able to, um, have an impact on our students.
00:14:46.928 --> 00:15:00.840
And of course, high quality curriculum materials matter so much, but making sure that the people who are delivering that instruction are trained, um, has been what I think has been the biggest area of growth over the last couple of years within our state.
00:15:00.840 --> 00:15:14.158
Speaking as somebody who needed additional training from when I went to to college till now, that I think our teachers are feeling more prepared to teach, teach reading in the way that it is, is most effective, and we have the resources to be able to do that.
00:15:14.158 --> 00:15:23.960
And that comes from the things And we've benefited from at our building, from the resources, from the training and also the curriculum materials that we're using.
00:15:23.960 --> 00:15:34.399
And so I think just as someone who's been around and watched the culminating units in CKLA and the energy around this and watching like first grade students, like with complex vocabulary.
00:15:34.399 --> 00:15:34.720
Oh, gosh.
00:15:34.720 --> 00:15:35.158
Yes.
00:15:35.158 --> 00:15:40.278
Um, you know, use those words in pretty remarkable to witness.
00:15:40.278 --> 00:15:41.240
So I'll flip it back.
00:15:41.240 --> 00:15:46.759
I just didn't want to let an literacy and teaching and Right.
00:15:46.759 --> 00:15:52.278
Happy to talk about that anytime I think you've tapped into definitely an area of passion for me.
00:15:52.278 --> 00:16:01.720
Um, and I'm just so excited that focus on that no matter which So sorry to kind of veer off your, your so well though, like you're natural.
00:16:01.720 --> 00:16:03.000
I thank you so much.
00:16:03.000 --> 00:16:06.918
Um, but can you speak a little I know there was more that you wanted to talk about besides the grant.
00:16:06.918 --> 00:16:07.278
Sure.
00:16:07.278 --> 00:16:19.038
Hey, happy to give up to the Um, one thing that we did do, which was this is the first year was we brought back career tech programming in-house.
00:16:19.038 --> 00:16:24.639
So we were with the Excel Tech compact and now we are our own comprehensive.
00:16:24.639 --> 00:16:34.840
Um, this saves money not only on districts all throughout us to utilize, utilize staffing.
00:16:34.840 --> 00:16:46.440
We already have to enhance the students and give them more Before, not nearly as many career tech programming.
00:16:46.440 --> 00:17:05.670
So it's good for students, good Um, and then lastly, recognizing So when people retire, analyzing and reviewing every single vacancy to see if we need to replace that position before it's posted.
00:17:05.670 --> 00:17:24.750
And then also, um, the this is a new thing within the last year, which was the through House Bill 96 the county piggyback as some would call it, um, in October of twenty twenty five, the county commissioners approved both piggybacks, which would be homestead.
00:17:24.750 --> 00:17:26.588
And then the owner occupied.
00:17:26.588 --> 00:17:31.548
And then in June they only So they did not renew.
00:17:31.548 --> 00:17:32.750
The owner occupied.
00:17:32.750 --> 00:17:39.068
Um and to Dr. Ward's point through the forecast, we have to account for either both or just one.
00:17:39.068 --> 00:17:46.750
So that also helped with the most recent forecast because we were only forecasting one throughout the forecast instead of both.
00:17:46.750 --> 00:17:49.710
I think that that term forecast We have to look ahead.
00:17:49.710 --> 00:17:50.710
We're talking about the future.
00:17:50.710 --> 00:17:54.509
The future is now forecasting But it does change.
00:17:54.509 --> 00:17:55.630
Things happen.
00:17:55.630 --> 00:17:59.430
Um you know, the changes the forecast in positive ways and negative ways.
00:17:59.430 --> 00:18:10.740
And we have to be prepared to to But I feel like what I'm hearing from you and what excites me is that these these cost saving measures have not negatively impacted students.
00:18:10.740 --> 00:18:23.660
We have been able to figure out a way to kind of turn that into benefiting more students, our career tech now being able to have more students involved than when we did before is something that I think is, is so exciting and it was a huge passion of yours.
00:18:23.660 --> 00:18:54.140
Dr. wards, can you talk a little workforce development and career You know, when you talk about and you talk about preparing if you don't talk about career approach to that across a opportunity and you go back like We weren't talking about career And the reason why I think that conversation is so important is because, you know, what do you ask kindergarteners and first graders, like right from the rip?
00:18:54.140 --> 00:18:56.740
Like, what do you want to be Right.
00:18:56.740 --> 00:19:02.700
And, and the problem is at some we stop asking that question.
00:19:02.700 --> 00:19:10.700
And when you stop asking that and seniors to that final step really good path to what's next.
00:19:10.700 --> 00:19:39.019
And so we're being intentional You know, whether you want to be medical field or you want to go you want to be a cosmetologist, nursing, like you should know And there are some paths we can start you on earlier, and there's coursework that we can align to that, and we can be really purposeful and intentional about creating the middle and high school experience that's personalized and tailored to the learner, right.
00:19:39.019 --> 00:19:45.019
Um, and we can do that at a And it sounds crazy, but to happen as well.
00:19:45.019 --> 00:19:59.618
And so to bring this vision of we're talking about the portrait connected learning, it's closer Willoughby-Eastlake schools And If you don't, you don't believe I would challenge anyone to students in these programs.
00:19:59.618 --> 00:20:00.140
Yes.
00:20:00.140 --> 00:20:12.930
Uh, the level of engagement, the students are dialed in on real And I've been doing this twenty So like, I've been on the hunt for this type of learning my entire career.
00:20:12.930 --> 00:20:14.009
Like, show me a spark.
00:20:14.009 --> 00:20:14.528
Show me.
00:20:14.528 --> 00:20:15.650
Show me an opportunity.
00:20:15.650 --> 00:20:19.368
I curiosity that engagement, and be there.
00:20:19.368 --> 00:20:22.808
That's what we are trying to we're seeing it.
00:20:22.808 --> 00:20:27.288
And so what's important is like, with this initiative, right?
00:20:27.288 --> 00:20:46.490
And I think that's the important is that we are fighting very elements in the shared vision and our career tech and our young as four or five is continue to develop it.
00:20:46.490 --> 00:20:48.450
Um, despite November.
00:20:48.450 --> 00:20:49.130
Right.
00:20:49.130 --> 00:21:07.130
And so when we talk about literacy, rich curriculum and, uh, you know, supporting learning, like we're going to continue to commit on building that future despite what happens in November, really November is intended to address the two fundamental challenges we spoke about.
00:21:07.130 --> 00:21:09.450
One is securing stable revenue.
00:21:09.450 --> 00:21:19.808
The second is permanent And the third is building a future around either two high school model or one that is the first step in a much longer conversation.
00:21:19.808 --> 00:21:21.808
Absolutely, absolutely.
00:21:21.808 --> 00:21:31.170
I am excited, based on this conversation about where the district is headed, no matter what happens in November, and I think the community can can have a lot of pride in our schools no matter what.
00:21:31.170 --> 00:21:34.450
And they can also have a lot of pride in being involved in the decisions.
00:21:34.450 --> 00:21:38.690
I mean, we, as you know, they, you know, how we move forward.
00:21:38.690 --> 00:21:43.769
But in terms of other opportunities that people have to be able to get their voice heard.
00:21:43.769 --> 00:21:50.769
Obviously, November, you can That's what we want people to do, to be able to have their voice heard, no matter which way they vote.
00:21:50.769 --> 00:21:55.808
But how else can people add their voices to our shared vision or to get involved in the district?
00:21:55.808 --> 00:22:03.759
So one of our core commitments of this board and this administration, and we heard it loud and clear, is building collaborative capacity.
00:22:03.759 --> 00:22:12.400
And so you have to be intentional about how you build a system where you can perpetually engage the voices of stakeholders, right?
00:22:12.400 --> 00:22:23.118
And so in twenty three, twenty Uh, in twenty four, twenty five, steering committee structure.
00:22:23.118 --> 00:22:29.598
The shared vision steering committee structure is three meetings a year around our four priorities.
00:22:29.598 --> 00:22:40.519
This would be academics, uh, the the arts, athletics, music, a the identity the community has That's all in priority two.
00:22:40.519 --> 00:22:53.759
Priority three three is school Like so having questions about creating safe learning environments and having a strategic set of goals around that all lives in that third priority, as well as school finance.
00:22:53.759 --> 00:22:58.078
And the fourth priority is community engagement and communications.
00:22:58.078 --> 00:23:04.230
And how do we connect with our And we found that it was easy to kids in school?
00:23:04.230 --> 00:23:08.670
And so one of our goals for committee for is to figure out how do we connect with the broader community.
00:23:08.670 --> 00:23:09.390
Right.
00:23:09.390 --> 00:23:13.710
And so each of those four priorities, um, have standing committees.
00:23:13.710 --> 00:23:18.108
They will meet three times this And the first one is September It's coming up soon.
00:23:18.108 --> 00:23:25.588
Um, if this, if this happens to be published after that date, then there'll be a second one and a third meeting, which we'll publish.
00:23:25.588 --> 00:23:26.348
But get involved.
00:23:26.348 --> 00:23:29.150
You can be part of the Your voice matters.
00:23:29.150 --> 00:23:36.269
If you want to help us set a um, you know, this is the years to do that.
00:23:36.269 --> 00:23:43.868
And we're going to lock into that plan and continue to listen to our community about what they want for our children and their future.
00:23:43.868 --> 00:24:00.068
I'm gonna say that again, like we're going to continue to ask want for our children when it Um, and we're gonna deliver on I love that I've been able to be a part of the steering committees, and they've had very engaging conversations.
00:24:00.068 --> 00:24:08.548
I love especially that we've Hearing their input has been So I definitely encourage people have their voice heard.
00:24:08.548 --> 00:24:19.788
Um, and I really would love to for giving me the honor of being Thank you so much for your This is such an important topic.
00:24:19.788 --> 00:24:30.788
So I do feel, um, you know, very honored to be able to kind of moderate some of those questions that have come up because they do impact all of our students, our family members, our staff, you know, the community in general.
00:24:30.788 --> 00:24:37.828
Um, so thank you so much for And, um, I really wish you well as we continue on with our shared vision.
00:24:37.828 --> 00:24:39.028
Well, thank you so much.
00:24:39.028 --> 00:24:51.588
Uh, for those of you listening for those that have tuned in, and we're looking forward to the various perspectives out
00:00:00.000 --> 00:00:10.278
welcome to season two of our believe it's through and understanding is created.
00:00:10.278 --> 00:00:20.760
And we have a real treat for you We're going to start this new script completely and turning podcast host today.
00:00:20.760 --> 00:00:28.320
And so we have the one and only So we'll welcome her to the podcast today and we'll get started.
00:00:32.158 --> 00:00:33.478
Thank you so much, Dr. Ward.
00:00:33.478 --> 00:00:42.359
I'm honored to be a co host or a And so you do this all the time, You know, just in my spare time, Yeah.
00:00:42.359 --> 00:00:46.478
So like when we asked you to do and said, let's go.
00:00:46.478 --> 00:00:50.719
I've been waiting for you to Well, it turns out you didn't Here we are.
00:00:50.719 --> 00:00:51.719
Episode one.
00:00:51.719 --> 00:00:55.520
No, I am really excited to host with you, especially on this topic.
00:00:55.520 --> 00:01:00.789
I think there's a lot of great questions out there that impact all of us in the district and the community.
00:01:00.789 --> 00:01:05.150
and I'm so thankful to be able with you both.
00:01:05.150 --> 00:01:06.510
So what is the topic today?
00:01:06.510 --> 00:01:12.390
Out of curiosity, what are we It's all about our levy and our paths forward, um, as a district.
00:01:12.390 --> 00:01:14.670
So that's what we're, we're going to go ahead and get started with.
00:01:14.670 --> 00:01:34.989
And I think a wonderful place to Doctor Ward was just looking at When you look at it, where do How would you describe where we So I think it's really important to kind of just state from the beginning how proud I am to serve as superintendent of Willoughby-Eastlake schools and what a remarkable community we live in.
00:01:34.989 --> 00:01:37.349
And we serve seven cities.
00:01:37.349 --> 00:01:43.629
We've got about six thousand three hundred kids and about sixty six thousand people that live on the West end of Lake County.
00:01:43.629 --> 00:01:56.108
And so the heartbeat of any good the school and the way that school, I think, says a lot your, your system.
00:01:56.108 --> 00:02:05.828
And so I was just at the Um, and you know, what a wonderful rallying cry for a community to rally around its football team.
00:02:05.828 --> 00:02:06.549
Right?
00:02:06.549 --> 00:02:12.750
Uh, I went to the other side of The south end also saw, uh, the community out to support, uh, athletics.
00:02:12.750 --> 00:02:18.628
Uh, and so from the state of the community perspective, I think you'll find a lot of pride out there.
00:02:18.628 --> 00:02:24.530
You'll find a lot of support and families that, uh, call end of Lake County home.
00:02:24.530 --> 00:02:27.408
And so I think the school districts in a really great place.
00:02:27.408 --> 00:02:33.008
I spent, we spent two years some core priorities.
00:02:33.008 --> 00:02:38.210
Uh, and we've worked to put support a future ready student.
00:02:38.210 --> 00:03:04.758
Um, you know, we asked in 2023 a And that question was, you know, our students will be ready for Uh, we listened, listened to We listened to civic leaders, we parents and teachers and ready in the twenty first uh, check boxes in different The ones that you and I probably experienced when we were in school.
00:03:04.758 --> 00:03:19.199
And so our students need to be communicators, critical And so a lot of our work in the building a system around that And so I'm proud to say those They're in place.
00:03:19.199 --> 00:03:25.158
We continue to to stay very sharply focused on our shared vision together.
00:03:25.158 --> 00:03:30.400
I am I am so excited to hear you the opportunity to live it.
00:03:30.400 --> 00:03:34.280
Being a building principal, I staff and our students.
00:03:34.280 --> 00:03:40.758
I know we put a lot of things in place, but being able to have the opportunity to see it put into practice, it is so exciting.
00:03:40.758 --> 00:03:56.758
And I feel like when I think I'm excited for our students, I'm excited for all of us who Um, and so I feel so, um, so hopeful and energized by the work that we're doing as a district.
00:03:56.758 --> 00:04:06.949
So I'm excited that you shared, shared that with us and kind of let us go behind the scenes of what you've been putting into place these last couple of years that we've been able to, as a as a whole community, really rally around.
00:04:06.949 --> 00:04:21.588
So getting into more of the topic of our podcast, beyond just the shared vision, um, how do you think that proposed income tax levy fits into the district's shared vision and our priorities that you talked about?
00:04:21.588 --> 00:04:27.949
So I think that's a really good And so when you talk about future readiness, you know, we've talked about future ready academics.
00:04:27.949 --> 00:04:33.829
We've talked about future ready opportunities for kids, uh, in career technical education and workforce development.
00:04:33.829 --> 00:04:39.189
Uh, you know, with regards to athletics, music arts, um, we've talked about future ready communication.
00:04:39.189 --> 00:04:45.069
How do you reach and connect So they hear the message and can be engaged in their school community.
00:04:45.069 --> 00:04:53.389
And so I think one of the questions that's still lingering out there that we have to wrestle with is, what is what does it mean to be future ready when it comes to our school finances?
00:04:53.389 --> 00:05:03.470
Um, you know, how do we explain West end of Lake County how Um, how do we explain the impact of legislation on school funding?
00:05:03.470 --> 00:05:07.990
How do we explain the history of Willoughby Eastlake and how we are funded?
00:05:07.990 --> 00:05:09.389
Because we are very unique.
00:05:09.389 --> 00:05:09.990
Yes.
00:05:09.990 --> 00:05:24.430
And so how do you take something Um, and educate and inform, uh, you know, give people the information they need to understand it and then attempt to pivot to a different path for the future.
00:05:24.430 --> 00:05:35.629
Uh, and that's the essence of last several years is building had to ask the question, all finances look like?
00:05:35.629 --> 00:05:41.709
What are some of the prudent things we should be doing as a district to solve some of our longstanding challenges?
00:05:41.709 --> 00:05:43.550
Um, and ultimately, it's simple.
00:05:43.550 --> 00:05:50.750
Like we, we ultimately ask the The community gives us a to make sense of it.
00:05:50.750 --> 00:05:59.750
And the board gives us Uh, and so all of that comes together in this unique moment we're in right now where we're, we're really wrestling with that big question.
00:05:59.750 --> 00:06:06.620
And I think making sure that what you've talked about all along is that our shared vision is protected no matter what what happens.
00:06:06.620 --> 00:06:09.740
And I think that that gives everybody hope to be able to move forward.
00:06:09.740 --> 00:06:19.019
And I know you spoke to this these levys and how schools are And I have to say, going to trying to figure it out.
00:06:19.019 --> 00:06:21.740
And that is why I'm so glad we here with us today.
00:06:21.740 --> 00:06:28.500
Nick, can you talk a little bit tax and who who pays it?
00:06:28.500 --> 00:06:29.019
Yes.
00:06:29.019 --> 00:06:30.220
Um great question.
00:06:30.220 --> 00:06:35.939
This is actually an earned So there are two different types of income taxes that a school could utilize.
00:06:35.939 --> 00:06:42.579
And this is an earned income So this is for any resident within the Willoughby-eastlake school district.
00:06:42.579 --> 00:06:57.019
So regardless of where you work And this is on active wages or So if you get a W-2 or you're working and get a ten ninety nine, it would be applied to those wages.
00:06:57.019 --> 00:07:04.980
So it would not be on Social security, pensions, investment income or anything that would be considered passive.
00:07:04.980 --> 00:07:09.019
So it would just be on active Awesome.
00:07:09.019 --> 00:07:09.579
Thank you so much.
00:07:09.579 --> 00:07:17.019
I think that that's that's heard a lot of what exactly is What does it mean for us?
00:07:17.019 --> 00:07:18.060
How does it help us?
00:07:18.060 --> 00:07:24.500
So I do think the biggest question of all is what happens after the results of the levy come out?
00:07:24.500 --> 00:07:25.899
What happens if it passes?
00:07:25.899 --> 00:07:27.338
What happens if it fails?
00:07:27.338 --> 00:07:38.660
I think that that graphic that about the paths forward was so I had a parent, we had an event, a paint night at our school last week, and a parent came to me and said, that was such a helpful graphic.
00:07:38.660 --> 00:07:43.500
So if people haven't seen that yet, I got a plug to go look at that, that graphic about the paths forward.
00:07:43.500 --> 00:07:51.459
But could you could you speak to are the two paths that voters Yeah.
00:07:51.459 --> 00:07:56.019
So if you've lived here a long time, you understand that we've been in levy cycles before, right?
00:07:56.019 --> 00:07:59.300
Like we've had perpetual periods where we're constantly on the ballot.
00:07:59.300 --> 00:08:03.209
And during those periods of here's the levee.
00:08:03.209 --> 00:08:06.810
Here are the things we're going And if it passes or fails.
00:08:06.810 --> 00:08:07.610
It was clear, right?
00:08:07.610 --> 00:08:11.930
This stuff was going to go away offer those opportunities.
00:08:11.930 --> 00:08:28.528
Now this particular initiative This particular initiative is about, again, making sure that the shared vision remains out front, that the opportunities and the academics and the workforce development continue to be top of mind and areas that we continue to invest in as a school system.
00:08:28.528 --> 00:08:40.889
And the fundamental question, I you know, in path one, do you two high schools or in path two, around one high school?
00:08:40.889 --> 00:08:47.649
I think the other two questions that, that we're wrestling with as a school district are securing stable funding for the future.
00:08:47.649 --> 00:09:00.649
Um, you know, it's important for we talk about future proofing secure and stable source of strategically for the future.
00:09:00.649 --> 00:09:05.639
The other question under consideration is how do we maintain our facilities and our current footprint?
00:09:05.639 --> 00:09:07.639
How do we upkeep our facilities?
00:09:07.639 --> 00:09:16.620
How do we protect the investment know, came online in 2019 So deteriorate as well.
00:09:16.620 --> 00:09:25.178
And so this initiative is really It's about protecting some permanent improvement fund for the future.
00:09:25.178 --> 00:09:29.418
And then it's about building a school campus, right?
00:09:29.418 --> 00:09:44.860
And so when we say one vision, two paths, we're saying, um, two high schools, um, and building efficiencies around that model or one high school and building efficiencies around that model, all while trying to protect the things that we talked about earlier.
00:09:44.860 --> 00:09:58.658
No matter what, no matter what, I love that is the center of all No matter what, our students are those incredible experiences, what matters to them in terms of that looks like.
00:09:58.658 --> 00:10:03.500
So, um, there have been there's been a lot of chatter all over social media.
00:10:03.500 --> 00:10:11.940
Different places with lots of Um, on our website, we do have a questions, those FAQs.
00:10:11.940 --> 00:10:14.379
And I chose a couple of them that maybe we could work through.
00:10:14.379 --> 00:10:24.940
I know people could go to the them to, but just hearing from So, um, the first one was just the district already done?
00:10:24.940 --> 00:10:29.940
What have we put in place already to, to address some of these issues?
00:10:29.940 --> 00:10:30.139
Yeah.
00:10:30.139 --> 00:10:34.740
And so I think, you know, Nick authority as well.
00:10:34.740 --> 00:10:40.658
Um, but, you know, every year forecast twice a year, right?
00:10:40.658 --> 00:10:53.178
And so we saw a forecast in the And then we put some cost saving We made some reductions, we made And then our new forecast came out and it looked a little bit better.
00:10:53.178 --> 00:11:02.370
And so that's how quickly things where you've got legislation you've got on the front line.
00:11:02.370 --> 00:11:07.450
Um, this kind of like, uh, rapidly changing, uh, financial outlook.
00:11:07.450 --> 00:11:12.490
And so you're always constantly decisions in the moment based on front of you.
00:11:12.490 --> 00:11:21.250
So when you talk explicitly done, if you want to go ahead think it'd be important for Yeah, absolutely.
00:11:21.250 --> 00:11:29.210
Um, so one thing that we did, um, it's been a couple years now was try to address health care, health insurance.
00:11:29.210 --> 00:11:44.490
Uh, that was something that the unions worked together to try to costs, which I think a lot of And I think maybe that's just across the, you know, the nation.
00:11:44.490 --> 00:11:46.928
So I think that's been great.
00:11:46.928 --> 00:11:56.610
Um, I'm sure everyone's seeing those emails being sent out by the committee talking about different changes, but, um, in terms of a cost savings, it's been fantastic.
00:11:56.610 --> 00:12:02.320
And the ability to stave off, um, some of those larger financial pressures.
00:12:02.320 --> 00:12:15.639
Um, another thing was with some dedicated capital dollars, we purchased back the school bus fleet, which was something that was outsourced with the transportation provider.
00:12:15.639 --> 00:12:21.879
We were able to purchase those back and no longer incur leasing costs.
00:12:21.879 --> 00:12:53.360
So interest payments every month So now the district owns all the school buses and is in charge of replacing or keeping that fleet up to date, but not paying those interest costs every month, um, securing a relatively large literacy grant, um, with the help of, you know, people across many different departments, um, don't even think there are that many schools within the state that receive this, but it was a two point one million dollar literacy grant.
00:12:53.360 --> 00:12:55.320
So that was fantastic.
00:12:55.320 --> 00:12:59.840
Um, and I have to say, speaking benefits from that?
00:12:59.840 --> 00:13:03.558
That is that's huge for for what we're able to do for our students.
00:13:03.558 --> 00:13:15.158
And we're seeing the gains from So even though it's been a a kind of, um, build on that and So sorry to interrupt.
00:13:15.158 --> 00:13:23.879
You just have to just had to say Well, I like that because what you're saying is that coherence we're bringing to literacy, you know, k k almost eight now, right?
00:13:23.879 --> 00:13:26.820
As you say K-5 But we've expanded it through the middle level now.
00:13:26.820 --> 00:13:31.480
So K-8 you know assuring that you have that science of reading aligned solid literacy foundation.
00:13:31.480 --> 00:13:31.798
Yes.
00:13:31.798 --> 00:13:38.960
Ultimately translates to improve student outcomes and begins to build again the foundation for that kind of future ready learner, right?
00:13:38.960 --> 00:13:39.798
One hundred percent.
00:13:39.798 --> 00:13:47.320
Um, and so it's good to hear level, what's going on in our that grant comes to life, right?
00:13:47.320 --> 00:13:56.440
Um, and the, the impact that it has on a daily basis is, is really exciting to see in preparing our students, you have to be able to read in whatever you do.
00:13:56.440 --> 00:14:02.428
And so I think that having that all of us and our teachers too.
00:14:02.428 --> 00:14:07.590
So you can't take the host out So I'm just going to now turn and flip it back for just a moment here.
00:14:07.590 --> 00:14:08.070
Okay, okay.
00:14:08.070 --> 00:14:24.889
Because like as a as a building think about, you know, CKLA and of the gains you're seeing are the top two things that couple of years in what we've Are you talking about results or just just what we've been able to do?
00:14:24.889 --> 00:14:29.288
Either one, I think, would be viewers to kind of hear about.
00:14:29.288 --> 00:14:35.450
For me, the two obviously biggest components are the people who are doing the work and then also the resources that we're using.
00:14:35.450 --> 00:14:42.048
I feel like in the past, um, you know, districts across the state were really focused on the resources we were using to teach reading.
00:14:42.048 --> 00:14:46.928
We would be trying to buy different things to be able to, um, have an impact on our students.
00:14:46.928 --> 00:15:00.840
And of course, high quality curriculum materials matter so much, but making sure that the people who are delivering that instruction are trained, um, has been what I think has been the biggest area of growth over the last couple of years within our state.
00:15:00.840 --> 00:15:14.158
Speaking as somebody who needed additional training from when I went to to college till now, that I think our teachers are feeling more prepared to teach, teach reading in the way that it is, is most effective, and we have the resources to be able to do that.
00:15:14.158 --> 00:15:23.960
And that comes from the things And we've benefited from at our building, from the resources, from the training and also the curriculum materials that we're using.
00:15:23.960 --> 00:15:34.399
And so I think just as someone who's been around and watched the culminating units in CKLA and the energy around this and watching like first grade students, like with complex vocabulary.
00:15:34.399 --> 00:15:34.720
Oh, gosh.
00:15:34.720 --> 00:15:35.158
Yes.
00:15:35.158 --> 00:15:40.278
Um, you know, use those words in pretty remarkable to witness.
00:15:40.278 --> 00:15:41.240
So I'll flip it back.
00:15:41.240 --> 00:15:46.759
I just didn't want to let an literacy and teaching and Right.
00:15:46.759 --> 00:15:52.278
Happy to talk about that anytime I think you've tapped into definitely an area of passion for me.
00:15:52.278 --> 00:16:01.720
Um, and I'm just so excited that focus on that no matter which So sorry to kind of veer off your, your so well though, like you're natural.
00:16:01.720 --> 00:16:03.000
I thank you so much.
00:16:03.000 --> 00:16:06.918
Um, but can you speak a little I know there was more that you wanted to talk about besides the grant.
00:16:06.918 --> 00:16:07.278
Sure.
00:16:07.278 --> 00:16:19.038
Hey, happy to give up to the Um, one thing that we did do, which was this is the first year was we brought back career tech programming in-house.
00:16:19.038 --> 00:16:24.639
So we were with the Excel Tech compact and now we are our own comprehensive.
00:16:24.639 --> 00:16:34.840
Um, this saves money not only on districts all throughout us to utilize, utilize staffing.
00:16:34.840 --> 00:16:46.440
We already have to enhance the students and give them more Before, not nearly as many career tech programming.
00:16:46.440 --> 00:17:05.670
So it's good for students, good Um, and then lastly, recognizing So when people retire, analyzing and reviewing every single vacancy to see if we need to replace that position before it's posted.
00:17:05.670 --> 00:17:24.750
And then also, um, the this is a new thing within the last year, which was the through House Bill 96 the county piggyback as some would call it, um, in October of twenty twenty five, the county commissioners approved both piggybacks, which would be homestead.
00:17:24.750 --> 00:17:26.588
And then the owner occupied.
00:17:26.588 --> 00:17:31.548
And then in June they only So they did not renew.
00:17:31.548 --> 00:17:32.750
The owner occupied.
00:17:32.750 --> 00:17:39.068
Um and to Dr. Ward's point through the forecast, we have to account for either both or just one.
00:17:39.068 --> 00:17:46.750
So that also helped with the most recent forecast because we were only forecasting one throughout the forecast instead of both.
00:17:46.750 --> 00:17:49.710
I think that that term forecast We have to look ahead.
00:17:49.710 --> 00:17:50.710
We're talking about the future.
00:17:50.710 --> 00:17:54.509
The future is now forecasting But it does change.
00:17:54.509 --> 00:17:55.630
Things happen.
00:17:55.630 --> 00:17:59.430
Um you know, the changes the forecast in positive ways and negative ways.
00:17:59.430 --> 00:18:10.740
And we have to be prepared to to But I feel like what I'm hearing from you and what excites me is that these these cost saving measures have not negatively impacted students.
00:18:10.740 --> 00:18:23.660
We have been able to figure out a way to kind of turn that into benefiting more students, our career tech now being able to have more students involved than when we did before is something that I think is, is so exciting and it was a huge passion of yours.
00:18:23.660 --> 00:18:54.140
Dr. wards, can you talk a little workforce development and career You know, when you talk about and you talk about preparing if you don't talk about career approach to that across a opportunity and you go back like We weren't talking about career And the reason why I think that conversation is so important is because, you know, what do you ask kindergarteners and first graders, like right from the rip?
00:18:54.140 --> 00:18:56.740
Like, what do you want to be Right.
00:18:56.740 --> 00:19:02.700
And, and the problem is at some we stop asking that question.
00:19:02.700 --> 00:19:10.700
And when you stop asking that and seniors to that final step really good path to what's next.
00:19:10.700 --> 00:19:39.019
And so we're being intentional You know, whether you want to be medical field or you want to go you want to be a cosmetologist, nursing, like you should know And there are some paths we can start you on earlier, and there's coursework that we can align to that, and we can be really purposeful and intentional about creating the middle and high school experience that's personalized and tailored to the learner, right.
00:19:39.019 --> 00:19:45.019
Um, and we can do that at a And it sounds crazy, but to happen as well.
00:19:45.019 --> 00:19:59.618
And so to bring this vision of we're talking about the portrait connected learning, it's closer Willoughby-Eastlake schools And If you don't, you don't believe I would challenge anyone to students in these programs.
00:19:59.618 --> 00:20:00.140
Yes.
00:20:00.140 --> 00:20:12.930
Uh, the level of engagement, the students are dialed in on real And I've been doing this twenty So like, I've been on the hunt for this type of learning my entire career.
00:20:12.930 --> 00:20:14.009
Like, show me a spark.
00:20:14.009 --> 00:20:14.528
Show me.
00:20:14.528 --> 00:20:15.650
Show me an opportunity.
00:20:15.650 --> 00:20:19.368
I curiosity that engagement, and be there.
00:20:19.368 --> 00:20:22.808
That's what we are trying to we're seeing it.
00:20:22.808 --> 00:20:27.288
And so what's important is like, with this initiative, right?
00:20:27.288 --> 00:20:46.490
And I think that's the important is that we are fighting very elements in the shared vision and our career tech and our young as four or five is continue to develop it.
00:20:46.490 --> 00:20:48.450
Um, despite November.
00:20:48.450 --> 00:20:49.130
Right.
00:20:49.130 --> 00:21:07.130
And so when we talk about literacy, rich curriculum and, uh, you know, supporting learning, like we're going to continue to commit on building that future despite what happens in November, really November is intended to address the two fundamental challenges we spoke about.
00:21:07.130 --> 00:21:09.450
One is securing stable revenue.
00:21:09.450 --> 00:21:19.808
The second is permanent And the third is building a future around either two high school model or one that is the first step in a much longer conversation.
00:21:19.808 --> 00:21:21.808
Absolutely, absolutely.
00:21:21.808 --> 00:21:31.170
I am excited, based on this conversation about where the district is headed, no matter what happens in November, and I think the community can can have a lot of pride in our schools no matter what.
00:21:31.170 --> 00:21:34.450
And they can also have a lot of pride in being involved in the decisions.
00:21:34.450 --> 00:21:38.690
I mean, we, as you know, they, you know, how we move forward.
00:21:38.690 --> 00:21:43.769
But in terms of other opportunities that people have to be able to get their voice heard.
00:21:43.769 --> 00:21:50.769
Obviously, November, you can That's what we want people to do, to be able to have their voice heard, no matter which way they vote.
00:21:50.769 --> 00:21:55.808
But how else can people add their voices to our shared vision or to get involved in the district?
00:21:55.808 --> 00:22:03.759
So one of our core commitments of this board and this administration, and we heard it loud and clear, is building collaborative capacity.
00:22:03.759 --> 00:22:12.400
And so you have to be intentional about how you build a system where you can perpetually engage the voices of stakeholders, right?
00:22:12.400 --> 00:22:23.118
And so in twenty three, twenty Uh, in twenty four, twenty five, steering committee structure.
00:22:23.118 --> 00:22:29.598
The shared vision steering committee structure is three meetings a year around our four priorities.
00:22:29.598 --> 00:22:40.519
This would be academics, uh, the the arts, athletics, music, a the identity the community has That's all in priority two.
00:22:40.519 --> 00:22:53.759
Priority three three is school Like so having questions about creating safe learning environments and having a strategic set of goals around that all lives in that third priority, as well as school finance.
00:22:53.759 --> 00:22:58.078
And the fourth priority is community engagement and communications.
00:22:58.078 --> 00:23:04.230
And how do we connect with our And we found that it was easy to kids in school?
00:23:04.230 --> 00:23:08.670
And so one of our goals for committee for is to figure out how do we connect with the broader community.
00:23:08.670 --> 00:23:09.390
Right.
00:23:09.390 --> 00:23:13.710
And so each of those four priorities, um, have standing committees.
00:23:13.710 --> 00:23:18.108
They will meet three times this And the first one is September It's coming up soon.
00:23:18.108 --> 00:23:25.588
Um, if this, if this happens to be published after that date, then there'll be a second one and a third meeting, which we'll publish.
00:23:25.588 --> 00:23:26.348
But get involved.
00:23:26.348 --> 00:23:29.150
You can be part of the Your voice matters.
00:23:29.150 --> 00:23:36.269
If you want to help us set a um, you know, this is the years to do that.
00:23:36.269 --> 00:23:43.868
And we're going to lock into that plan and continue to listen to our community about what they want for our children and their future.
00:23:43.868 --> 00:24:00.068
I'm gonna say that again, like we're going to continue to ask want for our children when it Um, and we're gonna deliver on I love that I've been able to be a part of the steering committees, and they've had very engaging conversations.
00:24:00.068 --> 00:24:08.548
I love especially that we've Hearing their input has been So I definitely encourage people have their voice heard.
00:24:08.548 --> 00:24:19.788
Um, and I really would love to for giving me the honor of being Thank you so much for your This is such an important topic.
00:24:19.788 --> 00:24:30.788
So I do feel, um, you know, very honored to be able to kind of moderate some of those questions that have come up because they do impact all of our students, our family members, our staff, you know, the community in general.
00:24:30.788 --> 00:24:37.828
Um, so thank you so much for And, um, I really wish you well as we continue on with our shared vision.
00:24:37.828 --> 00:24:39.028
Well, thank you so much.
00:24:39.028 --> 00:24:51.588
Uh, for those of you listening for those that have tuned in, and we're looking forward to the various perspectives out
