The North Wasco County School District 21 held a regular board meeting on April 24, 2025, focusing on various topics, including student involvement and funding for the Associated Student Body (ASB). The meeting began with an overview of spring sports, followed by a presentation from the executive ASB board, led by President Alexa Bustos.

Bustos highlighted the importance of student engagement in enhancing school culture and unity. She presented data on ASB funding, noting that in the 2019-2020 school year, the mandatory ASB fee generated $20,550 from 686 students. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, funding was significantly impacted, with only $8,155 raised in 2023 and $4,235 in 2024. The shift to an optional $35 ASB sticker has led to unpredictable funding, with only 21 students purchasing the sticker this past year.

Bustos expressed concerns about the financial sustainability of ASB activities, particularly regarding major events like homecoming week, which faced potential cancellations due to budget constraints. Fortunately, community support helped ensure the events could proceed. She emphasized that the ASB fee is essential for providing free admission to home sporting events, reducing dance ticket prices, and supporting various clubs, which have struggled financially in recent years.

The ASB is committed to inclusivity, offering scholarships to students in need, ensuring that financial barriers do not prevent participation in school activities. Bustos concluded by urging the board to consider the importance of adequate funding for the ASB to continue supporting current and future students.

The meeting then opened the floor for questions, with board members inquiring about prior discussions with school sponsors and advisors regarding funding solutions. The dialogue underscored the ongoing challenges and the need for collaborative efforts to secure financial resources for student activities.