Superintendent to meet with senators

Superintendent Paul Turner was in Olympia Tuesday to address the Washington State Senate Education Committee on discipline in the Lake Roosevelt School District.

Turner was one of several superintendents in the state invited to address the senate members.

It was a unique opportunity for Turner to tell the district’s story and concerns that have dominated the local school scene in recent months.

The senate committee was quick to point out that they were seeking information only, and that the appearance of the superintendents was not to be taken as a platform for future funding.

Turner explained to Grand Coulee Dam School District directors Monday night about his opportunity to meet with senators and said that he would use his time in Olympia to contact other legislators about some of the funding concerns the district is facing.

“I have grave concerns about future funding from the state,” Turner stated. “I plan to outline some drastic steps we may have to take at our board meeting later in the month (Jan. 22),” Turner stated.

The board voted at its meeting to re-elect Joette Barry as president of the board, and Richard Black as vice president. Barry will also continue to be the district’s legislative representative and Black will be the board’s representative to the the Washington Interscholastic Activities Association, the state organization for athletics and other activities.

The board also used its work session to review a number of policies and procedures.