Board approves resolution allowing District 27 to pursue withdrawal from True North Cooperative 804
Summary
The board approved a resolution permitting District 27 to begin the withdrawal process from True North Cooperative 804; staff said True North will operate as usual for the coming school year while governance and membership changes are reviewed and an interim superintendent search is underway.
The Board of Education voted to approve a resolution allowing District 27 to pursue withdrawal from the True North Cooperative 804, a multi-district cooperative that provides special education and related services. A staff presenter summarized recent developments: many member districts have filed notices to preserve the option to withdraw while the cooperative’s governance model is reviewed; the True North governing body approved a bylaw change to streamline withdrawal by removing the requirement for a third-party evaluation; and the cooperative’s superintendent resigned and has left for another position. Andy Piper, identified as True North’s head of human resources, was named acting superintendent while the cooperative continues a search for an interim superintendent to serve through the period of governance review. Staff emphasized that True North’s programs and placements for the coming school year will remain “status quo” and that decisions about placements are typically finalized in December. A report from a True North task force is expected to be shared with the Leadership Council at its August 22 meeting; staff said further updates will be provided to the board after that report is available. The resolution to allow District 27 to explore withdrawal was approved by voice vote with all recorded members voting aye.
