The Naselle-Grays River Valley School District Board of Directors met Sept. 21.

In personnel matters, the board approved a one-year leave of absence for April Zimmerman, para-educator. Resignations were acknowledged for Gregory Nelson, assistant girls’ basketball coach and Zara Ahlers, Naselle Youth Camp School secretary. Whitney Cooper, Victoria Corona, and Savannah Bowdish were hired as para-educators. Robert Eaton and Gregory Nelson (football), and Sylvia Hoagland (volleyball) were hired as coaches.

In other matters of business, fuel bids were approved for Ferrellgas and Wilcox and Flegel, along with the superintendent's goals for 2021-22, and the Title I Parent Involvement Policy and the Highly Capable Plan.

A discussion was held on the district’s Safe Start - Continuity of Operations Plan. As a final order of business, out of area endorsements for certificated staff: Moten, Rudolph, Updike, See, Dalton, Laine, Hazen, Bruce, Nelson and Smith were approved.

Four audience members were in attendance to express their concerns over the recent vaccine mandates. Guests had various questions about student-related covid cases, plans for quarantine when necessary, and who ultimately made those decisions.

Principal Justin Laine provided an overview on the school’s goals and action plans for the year. Superintendent Nelson showed a snapshot of the last five year enrollment trends at both the public school and the Naselle Youth Camp. A downward trend was evident in both schools.

The next board meeting is scheduled for Oct. 19 beginning at 6:30 p.m.