Townsend School Board Reviews Policies, Personnel Changes, and Community Priorities in January Meeting
Author: Rachael Brug, Staff Reporter
Townsend School Board Reviews Policies, Personnel Changes, and Community Priorities in January Meeting
Rachael Brug
Staff Reporter
The Townsend Schools Board of Trustees convened for their regular monthly meeting on January 13, 2026, gathering in the district’s library community room. Board Chair Jason Noyes called the session to order at 6:02 p.m., joined by trustees Vanessa Flynn, Chase Ragen, Jason Kool, and Adam Brakefield, as well as a roster of school staff and community members.
Public comment opened the evening, with Trustee Chase Ragen voicing appreciation for the district’s support of the Pep Band and the inclusion of eighth-grade students in the program.
Community collaboration took center stage during the Parent Teacher Association (PTA) report. Jocelyn Cahill, representing the PTA, highlighted recent activities and emphasized the group’s top priority: reinstating a School Resource Officer (SRO) in Townsend schools. Trustees and Superintendent Brad Racht expressed support, with plans to discuss the matter further at an upcoming curriculum committee meeting involving the PTA and the Broadwater County Sheriff’s Office.
Administrative reports provided updates across all grade levels. Elementary Principal Steven Cook noted rising attendance and enrollment, successful holiday events, and ongoing academic assessments. Middle School Principal Mark Irvin commended teachers for their dedication to student support and previewed upcoming safety training and academic competitions. High School Principal Sheri Heavrin shared news of steady enrollment and preparations for major events, including the Townsend B/C Duals wrestling tournament and the State Speech and Drama competition.
Superintendent Brad Racht updated the board on facility projects, maintenance progress, and upcoming training focused on bullying prevention and student needs. He also presented results from a recent flag football survey.
Action items included approval of resignations, coaching hires, and personnel changes, all of which passed unanimously. The board also discussed and adopted a retirement incentive program, offering one $10,000 incentive based on seniority. Several district policies underwent review, including updates on special education, student records, bullying, and the integration of artificial intelligence in education.
After an executive session, trustees reconvened to approve a two-year contract offer to Superintendent Racht, pending negotiations. The meeting adjourned, closing an evening marked by community engagement and forward-looking decisions.
