The Winslow Unified School District Board met on April 7, to discuss and take action on several important matters. Among the key topics discussed were a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Navajo County Sheriff’s Office (NSCO) and the ongoing success of the Northern Arizona Vocational Institute of Technology (NAVIT) program.
In a recent meeting, the WUSD board approved an MOU with NCSO to create safer and healthier schools. The agreement aims to enhance the collaboration between the school district and the Sheriff’s Office through the implementation of Mutualink, Inc.’s Safe School Emergency Alert and Response System. The agreement will run from April 5, through Dec. 31, 2025.
The Mutualink Safe School Emergency Alert and Response System is designed to help schools and law enforcement agencies work together more effectively during emergencies. By utilizing this system, schools can communicate with first responders in real-time, ensuring a more rapid and coordinated response to incidents. This partnership demonstrates the district’s commitment to the safety and well-being of its students and staff.
NAVIT Career and Technical Education District (CTED) Superintendent Matt Weber thanked the school district for their successful program during the meeting. Winslow is one of 14 CTEDs in Arizona. The NAVIT program has been instrumental in providing students with essential skills and training in various fields, preparing them for the workforce and helping them build successful careers.
Weber explained that NAVIT offers two primary services: First, it provides additional funding for high school satellite CTE programs, helping to pay for the programs and resources needed for students’ success. Second, it offers additional CTE program offerings at community college hubs, such as Winslow or Holbrook, giving students even more opportunities to pursue their passions and interests in various career fields.
One of the significant benefits of participating in the NAVIT program is that students graduate high school with a technical degree, setting them up for success in their future endeavors. This advantage allows graduates to either immediately join the workforce in decently paying jobs or continue their education at four-year institutions.
The current programs in Winslow include cosmetology, nursing assistant, medical assistant, welding and law and public safety. These programs have seen significant growth and success over the years.
The board’s discussion of the NAVIT program highlighted the importance of continued support and investment in career and technical education. Such programs not only equip students with essential skills for their future careers but also help address workforce needs and contribute to the overall economic development of the region.
In other business, the board:
* Approved ratification list 906 for $682,083.
*Accepted a $3,000 donation from Clear Creek Cowboys, to be split evenly between the district’s elementary schools.
* Appointed Megan Basely as a Bonnie Brennan teacher and Klaire Saycon as a Washington Special Education Inclusion Teacher.
* Approved the transfer of Lisa Foster from CTE Business to CTE Digital Media.
* Approved the retirement of Diane Wheeler, Winslow High School Parent Liaison, at the end of the school year.
* Approved a new club request for Winslow Junior High School Wrestling Club, with sponsor Bryan Larson.
* Approved the following Winslow High School fundraiser requests: Volleyball Club’s camp on April 25-27; Honor Society’s Krispy Kreme sale from March 27 – April 14; Class of 2024’s Prom on April 22.
*Approved 2023/2024 insurance rates.
The next regular board meeting is scheduled for April 19.
