Board Hightlights – May 7, 2026

Decisions & Direction: Governance in Action

is a brief summary published after each regular School Board meeting. This update provides our community with a clear overview of key decisions, policy actions, financial updates, and important discussions shaping the future of Moses Lake School District.

 

Our goal is to promote transparency, strengthen understanding, and keep families informed about the work of the Board of Directors and district leadership.

 

For more information about the Moses Lake School Board, visit our District website.

Opening

The Moses Lake School District Board of Directors met for its regular meeting on Thursday, May 7, 2026. Below are highlights from the meeting. If you would like to watch the entire meeting, you may do so on the District website.

Recognition

The Board of Directors took time to recognize and celebrate Teacher Appreciation Week, honoring the dedication, commitment, and impact of teachers across Moses Lake School District. While only a small group was able to join us during the meeting, we appreciate those teachers taking the time to be part of the recognition. The district also extends its appreciation to all teachers across our schools for the work they do each day to support students, build relationships, and help every learner succeed academically and personally.

Doing Business

The Board approved the consent agenda, including:

• Personnel recommendations
• Accounts payable and payroll
• March 2026 budget status report
• District contracts
• Student travel requests
• Surplus status items

 

Student Travel Requests Approved

The Board approved several student travel opportunities supporting leadership development, career readiness, athletics, and postsecondary preparation, including:

• Endeavor Middle School ASB Leadership
• Moses Lake High School FFA
• Moses Lake High School Gear Up programs
• Moses Lake High School Boys Golf
• Moses Lake High School Track & Field

These opportunities provide students with valuable experiences beyond the classroom while representing Moses Lake School District.

New Business

Resolution 2026-09 – WIAA

The Board heard Resolution 2026-09 related to the Washington Interscholastic Activities Association (WIAA). The Board held this over for the May 21, 2026 board meeting.

 

Resolution 2026-08 – Emergency Declaration for MLHS Pool

The Board approved Resolution 2026-08 declaring an emergency related to ongoing repair needs at the Moses Lake High School pool facility.

 

MLHS Pool Update and Expense Approval

Scott West, executive director of safety & well-being, provided an update regarding repairs and infrastructure needs connected to the Moses Lake High School pool facility.

 

Policy 2106 – Program Compliance

The Board reviewed and has opted to bring Policy 2106 back for a second reading at the May 21, 2026 board meeting.

Strategic Reports

Financial Report

Ruby Perez, director of finance, presented the monthly financial report and budget updates to the Board. The report included updates on district revenues, expenditures, cash flow, and enrollment-related financial impacts as the district continues its focus on responsible financial stewardship.

 

Superintendent's Report

Superintendent Carol Lewis shared district updates and highlighted ongoing work taking place across Moses Lake School District schools and departments. The presentation focused on the district’s continued commitment to truth, hard work, accountability, and keeping promises to students, staff, families, and the community.

 

The superintendent also reviewed the Board and Superintendent goals for 2026, including work connected to revising the district’s strategic plan with an increased focus on academic success, strengthening community collaboration, supporting ongoing board training and professional development, and continuing efforts around safety, wellbeing, and bullying prevention.

 

Additional updates included:

• Visits and engagement with students and staff at Garden Heights, Knolls Vista, and Early Learning programs
• Long-range facility and staffing planning efforts
• Enrollment trends and the relationship between student enrollment and staffing decisions
• Information regarding staffing structures, bargaining agreements, and administrative staffing models across district schools
• Upcoming district events and school activities throughout the month of May

 

The presentation concluded with a continued emphasis on collaboration, trust, direct communication, and building a stronger Team Moses Lake culture throughout the district and community.

Contact info

The next regular meeting of the Moses Lake School District Board of Directors is scheduled for May 21, 2026.

 

If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to contact us. You can reach out via the following links:

 

• (509) 766-2650
• info@mlsd161.org
• www.mlsd161.org/sb