The Sequim School Board voted in April to change Sequim’s two K-5 schools into one K-2 and one 3-5 school. Perhaps you’ve wondered why this decision was controversial.
Superintendent Regan Nickels introduced the reconfiguration as a way to save around a million dollars during a budget crisis, but math teacher and union leader Joe Van de Weghe calculated the reconfiguration would be a net cost. After meeting with the superintendent to compare figures, he again publicly stated the reconfiguration wouldn’t save money. Soon afterward, Olympia provided additional funding, effectively eliminating our budget crisis.
The board approved the plan anyway. We don’t know why. In the six weeks between the time it was introduced to teachers and the board’s vote, teachers and parents showed up in droves to express their opposition. Educators compiled research showing smaller grade spans are a drag on academic and social development. (Even the superintendent said research shows the transition will cause learning loss but learning will be regained.) Teachers gave emotional testimony about the need for stability after COVID disruptions. Parents talked about children with anxiety and autism who shouldn’t be separated from siblings, familiar staff, and established routines. Many talked about transportation hardships.
Even after the vote, parent and teacher opposition was strong, including sidewalk protests and a letter from 70 elementary educators asking the board to drop or delay the plan. The board never responded to that letter. Neither have they outlined what they’re trying to achieve or how they’ll measure success.
Lara Updike
Sequim