Townsend School Board Meeting Highlights Community Efforts and Student Success
Author: Rachael Brug, Staff Reporter
Townsend School Board Meeting Highlights Community Efforts and Student Success
Rachael Brug
Staff Reporter
The Townsend School Board convened on October 14, 2025, for a meeting that showcased the district’s ongoing commitment to student achievement, community partnerships, and operational transparency.
Board members opened the meeting by inviting public comment and reminding attendees of the importance of privacy and respectful discourse. The Parent Teacher Association (PTA), represented by Molly Watne, reported on recent activities, including the successful homecoming parade, support for the student wellness Care Closet, and providing meals for teachers during conferences. The next PTA meeting is scheduled for October 30 at Reading Leaves Bookstore, with all community members invited.
Principals Sheri Heavrin and others delivered encouraging reports from across the district. The high school celebrated a strong homecoming turnout and noted improved academic performance, with only a handful of students posting failing grades at midquarter. Middle and elementary schools highlighted student participation in local history excursions and art contests, as well as robust attendance and assessment scores.
Superintendent Brad Racht updated the board on transportation, noting repairs to a key bus and upcoming plans for equipment sales and property disposal. The board approved out-of-district attendance agreements and renewed contracts for essential services, including virtual sign language interpretation and afterschool pottery programs.
Discussion also centered on policy reviews, particularly around new state requirements for parental consent in curriculum areas such as human sexuality and identity instruction. The board agreed to seek further legal clarification before finalizing related forms and notifications.
Community partnerships remain a priority, with new collaborations underway with Billings Clinic and local organizations. Grants from the Townsend Charitable Foundation and Kohl’s Pantry will continue to support food security and student wellness initiatives.
The meeting concluded with approvals for new staff and volunteers, reflecting the district’s ongoing investment in its students and community. The next board meeting date will be announced on the district’s website.
