In a recent special meeting of the Battle Ground School District Board of Directors, discussions centered on enhancing student safety through the implementation of the Wayfinder curriculum. This initiative is part of the district's ongoing commitment to prioritize the well-being of its students, particularly in light of recent challenges related to funding and staffing.

The Wayfinder program is designed to equip school counselors, prevention intervention specialists, and social-emotional learning (SEL) staff with essential skills to support student safety. The district emphasized that the return of various positions, funded by a recent levy, was strategically focused on roles that directly contribute to this goal. With 260 certificated staff members across grades 9 to 12, including 15 counselors and 4 prevention intervention specialists, the program aims to create a robust support system for approximately 4,163 students enrolled in comprehensive high schools and alternative learning environments.

A key point raised during the meeting was the importance of community involvement in student safety education. The Wayfinder curriculum is not intended to replace lessons taught at home but rather to complement them by integrating essential life skills. This collaborative approach underscores the district's belief that fostering a safe and supportive environment requires a partnership between schools and families.

As the district moves forward with the implementation of Wayfinder, the focus will remain on ensuring that all staff are equipped to engage effectively with students. The board's discussions highlighted a proactive stance on addressing safety concerns, reflecting a broader commitment to nurturing a secure and supportive educational environment for all students. The next steps will involve monitoring the curriculum's impact and continuing to adapt strategies to meet the evolving needs of the student body.