During a recent government meeting, significant concerns were raised regarding the increasing demands on school health services and custodial staff due to a surge in student enrollment.

A representative from the health office highlighted the challenges faced in managing the care of over 1,000 students, noting that only a limited number of staff are available to assist students with medical conditions. The representative expressed worries about the ability to respond effectively in emergencies, given the current workload and the necessity of maintaining up-to-date medical documentation for students requiring medication. They requested additional support and resources to ensure that all students receive timely and effective care.

In a related discussion, custodial staff from the same school reported similar challenges stemming from the increased student population. With over 1,000 students served during lunch and an additional 360 participating in after-school programs, the workload for cleaning and maintaining facilities has significantly intensified. Despite the added responsibilities, custodial staff have not received additional compensation, unlike their counterparts in other district schools. They appealed for equitable treatment and support to address their increased workload.

Both discussions underscored the pressing need for additional resources and support within the school system to maintain quality services for students and staff alike. The meeting concluded with a call for the board to consider these requests seriously, emphasizing the importance of adequate staffing and fair compensation in fostering a conducive learning environment.