REPORTS TO THE BOARD

Human Resources Report

To: Asha Riley

From: Vicky Barnes

Subject: Human Resources and Communications Report

Date: May 15, 2025

Human Resources Summary

• Over the past two months, I have focused on the recruitment of paraeducators within our district. I participated in career fairs at Woodland High School and Cascadia Tech, aiming to connect with potential future employees in our student population. I also visited classrooms in the Cascadia Electrical and the Teaching Departments, engaging with students to discuss interview skills, including practicing good handshakes and eye contact. Additionally, I provided training on how to prepare effectively for interviews to increase their chances of success.
• Our current job postings exceed 25 positions. We've seen a higher volume of applicants than usual, likely due to staffing reductions in neighboring districts. For instance, we closed the application window for an elementary teacher position after receiving 90 applications. Districts use different hiring processes. Some have the hiring sit mostly with HR, who then places new hires in buildings. I believe our district's hiring process empowers building principals by leading the hiring at the school level, leveraging their understanding of their team and school culture. Principals are trained in screening candidates and leading interview teams, and they are required to conduct reference checks. Final approval for all certificated positions rests with Superintendent Riley. Interviewing and hiring of substitutes, both certificated and classified, do happen at the district level.

Communications Summary

• I have greatly enjoyed highlighting the accomplishments of our students and staff through various articles published since March. These include pieces on Woodland High School Students who Excelled at FFA Regionals, The Annual Future Chefs Competition, where Director Blum and Superintendent Riley were judges, a Regional Art Show that showcased our students' talent, an article highlighting our Choirs and their accomplishments, and Columbia Elementary’s Journey to being recognized by The Washington State School Recognition Program! 

• Following Director Stuart's suggestion, a Superintendent’s page has been successfully created. This new page serves as an introduction for Superintendent Riley to the community and reinforces our district's mission statement. It also provides a dedicated space for the "Riley Reports," offering parents easy access to important information on topics such as how to volunteer or how to learn more about the curriculum being used in classrooms.