REPORTS TO THE BOARD

Human Resources Report

To: Asha Riley

From: Vicky Barnes

Date: June 25, 2026

Subject: Human Resources and Communications Board Report

Human Resources Community & Student Engagement

While we are currently not in a big hiring season, we are prioritizing "pipeline" activities to keep Woodland School District at the forefront of local talent recruitment and student professional development:

• Port Career Fair at Woodland HS (April 24): Professionalism in Practice Superintendent Riley and I spent time with individual classes before their release at the fair to provide coaching on essential soft skills, specifically focusing on the impact of a professional handshake and consistent eye contact. I hosted a district engagement table where students were encouraged to practice their professional greetings in exchange for a sticker. This provided a low-stakes environment for students to build confidence.
• Higher Education Partnership: I spoke at Lower Columbia College to support students in the BAS-TE (Bachelor of Applied Science in Teacher Education) program. I teach the future educators with application strategies and interview techniques, and let them know Woodland is a wonderful place to work.

Contracting & Operations

The HR department is currently focused on securing our workforce for the upcoming academic year:

• 2026-2027 Certificated Contracts: Annual contracts have been officially issued to all certificated employees. I am currently managing the tracking of digital/physical signatures and conducting personalized follow-ups to ensure 100% compliance.
• Ongoing Workforce Adjustments: In addition to annual renewals, we continue to issue new contracts for mid-year hires and process contract amendments for existing employees necessitated by leaves of absence or adjustments in FTE/service hours.

Communications

Celebrating Student Success: Beyond the headlines, we’ve prioritized stories that highlight individual and group achievements in both academics and extracurricular activities.

Community Opportunities: We continue to bridge the gap between school and home by communicating upcoming events and actionable ways for families to stay involved.

Key Accomplishments

New Content: The Riley Reports for April and May served as a dedicated showcase for our vibrant arts programming. Our April edition featured an in-depth interview with newly hired Music Director Gordon Williford, offering insight into the upcoming musical programs. This momentum carried into May, where we highlighted the 2026 Art Fest through a featured profile by Michael Smith, celebrating our students’ successes and the district's continued commitment to community artistic engagement. 

Superintendent Riley catches up with Mr. Gordon Williford to talk about the music program April 2026

Superintendent Riley Celebrates Art Fest with Michael Smith May 2026

Superintendent Riley Celebrates an Incredible School Year June 2026

In the last few months, the District Communications page has served as a central hub for community connection, featuring articles that celebrate our students and keep families informed. Our storytelling strategy focuses on three core pillars: Student Success, Community Partnerships, and Program Growth. 

A Big Win for Math: Columbia Elementary Receives $2,000 Grant from D & PS Restaurant LLC

Woodland’s Creative Talents Shine: Join Us for Art Fest 2026!

Seeking Little Leaders: Join Our Peer Model Program for 2026-2027!

Opening Doors: Woodland High School Wins 2026 OnPoint Community Builder Award

A Blooming Success: Woodland High School’s 36th Annual FFA Plant Sale

A Trifecta of Excellence: All Three Woodland Elementary Schools Earn State Recognition for Student Growth

Civil Dialogue in Action: WHS Power Hour Tackles School Safety and SRO Funding

Woodland School Board and High School Teachers Honored for Pioneering Washington’s First Civic Seal

Woodland Parent Partnership Survey Update