Humboldt School Board approves ASU partnership for delinquent youth education

The Humboldt Unified District's Special Board meeting on March 26, 2025, spotlighted a significant agreement with Arizona State University (ASU) aimed at enhancing educational opportunities for neglected and delinquent students. The partnership, presented by Kate Johansson, is designed to provide college-level courses at a reduced cost, addressing a critical need for this vulnerable population.

Johansson emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, "We hope to continue this year over year... we can provide this opportunity for this population." The collaboration with ASU comes after challenges in previous years to implement effective educational plans for students at Mingus Mountain Youth Academy, a facility serving at-risk youth. The agreement allows these students to earn credits and pursue career goals, marking a positive step forward in their educational journey.

However, the meeting also revealed concerns regarding the contract's compliance with Title IX regulations. Board members raised issues about a broken link in the agreement that referenced ASU's Title IX guidance, prompting discussions about the need for clarity and potential amendments to the contract. The board ultimately approved the agreement with a vote of 3 to 2, contingent on ensuring that the Title IX information is properly documented.

In addition to the educational agreement, the meeting included an apology from board member Mike Sprague for a previous communication error, highlighting the board's commitment to transparency and accountability.

As the district moves forward with this partnership, the focus remains on providing meaningful educational experiences for all students, particularly those facing significant challenges. The anticipated outcomes of this agreement could pave the way for future collaborations aimed at supporting at-risk youth in the community.