In response to a request for an extension of time, the Idaho State Board of Education is not planning to make a decision regarding personnel at ISDB during the August 14-15 meeting in Idaho Falls.
In the meantime, staff at ISDB continues to work on the implementation of the thirty-one points of the corrective actions plan. They are meeting weekly to address process improvement and the administration of information technology, finance and human resources, according to Director of Financial Services, Jeff Woods. "We are also updating our policies and procedures and developing a strategic plan," said Woods.
Right now the staff is also preparing for another school year and the return of approximately 750 students. Of the approximate 750 about 15% attend school at the Gooding campus. The remaining 85% are served in their home resident districts through the seven outreach locations throughout the state.
"What is most important now is preparation for the coming school year. We are committed to providing quality education programs that help every student to realize their full potential intellectually, socially, physically and emotionally," said Kevin Weiche, Dean of Students. He noted that the cottages on the Gooding campus are ready to house the returning students. "The faculty, staff and I are looking forward to the return of our students and are anxiously awaiting their arrival beginning the 24th of this month," he said.
"As their mission, faculty and staff at the Idaho School for the Deaf and the Blind strive to provide an ideal and creative learning environment by offering an opportunity to obtain academic excellence, develop positive self-esteem and social skills, and to promote an understanding of identity and culture," said Laird Stone,member of the State Board of Education. He went on to say, "During this unsettling time, the State Board of Education especially wants to extend its appreciation to the teachers and staff at ISDB for their dedication and hard work."
Luci Willits
Communications
Officer
208-332-1591