REPORTS TO THE BOARD

Human Resources Report

To: Asha Riley

From: Vicky Barnes

Date: April 17, 2026

Subject: Human Resources and Communications Board Report

Human Resources

Strategic Negotiations and Workforce Planning

During March and April, the Human Resources department prioritized two critical pillars of district stability: contract negotiations and fiscal-year staffing.

• Collaborative Bargaining: The district engaged in Interest-Based Bargaining (IBB) with the WEA. Unlike traditional position-based negotiations, this model fostered a collaborative environment where both parties focused on underlying interests. This approach ensured that discussions were rooted in the "why," leading to more sustainable and productive outcomes.
• Proactive Staffing Strategy: To ensure optimal placement and fiscal responsibility for the upcoming school year, the annual Plans for Next Year survey was distributed. This data allows the HR department to track resignations, retirements, and leave requests in real-time, enabling the district to make data-driven hiring decisions and strategic internal shifts.

Communications

The Communications Department focused on enhancing transparency and accessibility, successfully delivering on Superintendent Riley’s vision of fiscal stewardship and educational celebration.

Key Accomplishments

1. Launch of the Annual Community Report. Superintendent Riley’s vision of demonstrating responsible stewardship and trusted fiscal management was realized this month with the distribution of the Community Report. This publication serves as a primary tool for:

• • Communicating the district’s commitment to transparent financial oversight.
  • Celebrating the recent milestones in educational excellence across our schools.
  • Strengthening the connection between the district and the community via direct mail.

2. Digital Infrastructure: New District Communications Page. To streamline how our families interact with district data, Steve Rippl developed and launched a dedicated District Communications page. This centralized hub is designed to reduce friction for parents and guardians seeking vital updates.
3. Content Integration & Accessibility In addition to the new web architecture, we have restructured our digital content to ensure consistency. Key updates include:

• • TalkingPoints Integration: Clearer guidance and information regarding our primary family-to-teacher messaging tool.
  • The "Riley Reports" Archive: These high-level updates have been migrated to the new site for easier access.
  • New Content: Two new editions of the Riley Reports were published and archived this month, providing fresh insights into district progress.

Superintendent Riley connects with SRO Cuneta to talk about Safety March 2026

Superintendent Riley shines a spotlight on Lewis River Academy (LRA)! February 2026

• • Digital Community Report: A digital version of the mailed report is now linked on the site to broaden its reach.

Spring 2026 - Together We Grow Community Report

Six articles were posted that ranged from Celebrating our students to communicating opportunities.

4. Digital Storytelling & Engagement We published six featured articles this month on our District News page. These stories provide a look at district life, including:

• • Celebrating Student Success: Highlighting individual and group achievements in academics and extracurriculars.
  • Community Opportunities: Communicating upcoming events, programs, and ways for families to get involved.

Excellence in the Making: Celebrating Our First Semester Honor Roll

Registration for the 26-27 school year is NOW OPEN for all Grades!!

Beavers Win Big in the Classroom and on the Court

Play Meets Academics: What Today’s Kindergarteners Are Actually Learning

Strengthening the Bond: Parent Partnership in Woodland Schools

Celebrating Our Best: Nominate a Woodland Hero for the Employee Excellence Award!