January 12 Board Brief

Posted Date: 01/13/26 (11:08 AM)

Here is a quick overview of our regular board meeting on January 12, 2026. Community members are always welcome to join!

Public Comments and Communications

Student Board Representative Report
Student Board Representative Kari Bazan shared updates from Hermiston High School, beginning with a recognition of January as Mental Health Awareness Month. She highlighted student-led efforts supporting mental wellness, including events hosted in partnership with ASB and the school health clinic.

Kari also celebrated the success of Unified Basketball, describing the inclusive atmosphere and strong student participation, and encouraged continued community attendance at upcoming games. Additional updates included strong winter athletic seasons for wrestling and basketball, the success of the canned food drive, and continued support for the school’s blood drive efforts.
[Click here to watch 00:02:48–00:06:44]

Hermiston Association of Teachers (HAT) Report
HAT President Jonathan Robledo recognized January as School Board Appreciation Month and shared updates on HAT activities, including scholarship opportunities for Hermiston High School seniors interested in entering the education field. He also highlighted upcoming professional development opportunities and acknowledged the recent loss of a dedicated educator and student, emphasizing the importance of staff and student support during difficult times.
[Click here to watch 00:07:08–00:09:47]

Public Comments
No public comments were received.
[Click here to watch 00:10:17–00:11:12]

Recognitions and Board Reports

School Board Appreciation Month
Superintendent Dr. Tricia Mooney recognized January as School Board Appreciation Month, thanking board members for their leadership, service, and commitment to supporting students, staff, and the Hermiston community, especially during challenging times.
[Click here to watch 00:11:12–00:13:05]

Board Reports
Board members shared reflections from recent school visits and community engagement, including attendance at family events, classroom presentations, and school support efforts. Members acknowledged the ongoing work of staff and the importance of districtwide collaboration and student-centered support.
[Click here to watch 00:13:05–00:15:21]

Business and Financial Report

Financial Report – Katie Saul
Director of Business Services Katie Saul presented the November financial report. She explained that revenue was slightly below projections due to timing of tax collections and reduced interest and fee revenue, but emphasized that the variance represents a small percentage of total expected revenue. Expenditures were reviewed, including payroll adjustments related to summer learning program funding shifts.

The district’s projected ending fund balance is approximately 9.55%, which remains close to the district’s 10% target and within acceptable fluctuation for this point in the fiscal year.
[Click here to watch 00:15:21–00:19:20]

Superintendent's Office

Enrollment Report – Dr. Tricia Mooney
Dr. Mooney shared enrollment data through December 31, reporting a total district enrollment of 5,105 K–12 students. She noted that seasonal enrollment fluctuations are typical during winter months and explained state requirements related to student enrollment and attendance.

Dr. Mooney also previewed upcoming kindergarten registration, including both online registration options and in-person support dates in April, and emphasized the district’s continued focus on monitoring enrollment trends as part of future budget planning.
[Click here to watch 00:19:28–00:24:56]

Next Regular Board Meeting February 9, 2026 at 6:00 P.M.

Hermiston School District

305 SW 11th Street, Hermiston, OR 97838

PH: 541-667-6000