Seattle School Board Special Meeting Nov. 29, 2023

Summary

The Seattle School Board held an oath ceremony for newly elected directors, Gina Top and Evan Briggs, emphasizing the importance of their roles in shaping the district's future. The event also marked a bittersweet moment, bidding farewell to directors Harris and Hampson. President Hery and Superintendent Jones highlighted the board's achievements and the collective responsibility to advocate for all students and foster educational excellence. The ceremony underscored the board's commitment to equity and the challenges ahead, with a call for unity and support for the new directors as they embark on their term.

Takeaways

• 🎉 The meeting is being called to order, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the district with several generations of board directors present.
• 🌟 The outgoing board members have left a legacy of service and are passing the torch to new members during a challenging time.
• 📜 The new board members, Gina Top and Evan Briggs, are being welcomed and their responsibilities as directors of Seattle School District Number One are being emphasized.
• 🙌 The importance of a shared vision, values, and a sense of longevity in serving the district is highlighted.
• 🗣️ The board members are taking their oath of office, pledging to support the Constitution and promote the interests of education.
• 💬 Vice President Rankin apologizes for not fully supporting new board members in the past and commits to a more inclusive environment moving forward.
• 🌈 Director Rivera shares her personal journey of self-discovery and commitment to advocating for all students, especially native students.
• 🎥 Director Briggs reflects on his journey from filmmaker to board member, expressing optimism and readiness to tackle challenges.
• 👨‍👩‍👧 Director Top acknowledges the support of her family and the importance of education in democracy, expressing eagerness to work towards equity in the district.
• 🤝 Superintendent Jones emphasizes the unity and cohesion of the board and administration, and the continuation of progress from previous board members' work.
• 📸 The ceremony concludes with a group photo of the new board members, symbolizing the start of their term and the collective commitment to the future of the district.

Q & A

What is the main purpose of the gathering described in the transcript?

The main purpose of the gathering is to conduct an oath of office ceremony for newly elected School Board directors and to officially call the meeting of the board directors to order.

Who are the newly elected School Board directors mentioned in the transcript?

The newly elected School Board directors mentioned in the transcript are Gina Top and Evan Briggs.

What does the speaker emphasize as a critical aspect of serving in the board role?

The speaker emphasizes having a sense of vision, particularly a vision of longevity, as a critical aspect of serving in the board role.

What is the significance of the previous board directors to the new ones?

The knowledge and experience of the previous board directors are significant to the new ones as they will be starting in a tumultuous time and will need guidance to effectively serve on the board.

What does the vice president, Rankin, apologize for during her speech?

Vice president Rankin apologizes for not helping the new board members feel welcome and included during their onboarding process when they joined the board in 2021.

What is the main message director Rivera wants to convey in her speech?

Director Rivera wants to convey the importance of advocating for all students, especially those who need a voice at the table, and the need to reclaim her Native heritage and identity.

What does director Briggs highlight about the previous work done by the board?

Director Briggs highlights the groundwork laid by the previous board, particularly in creating a structure and governance model that will allow the board to be as effective as possible.

What does superintendent Jones emphasize about the board and his role?

Superintendent Jones emphasizes the cohesion and clear plan between the board and himself, and the importance of the board members' passion and expertise in moving the district forward.

What is the significance of the oath of office taken by the new directors?

The oath of office symbolizes the new directors' dedication to excellence and education, and their commitment to faithfully discharge the duties of their roles.

What does the speaker, president Hery, express about the future of the board and district?

President Hery expresses excitement about the future, acknowledging that there will be challenges but also highlighting the strong foundation and commitment to excellence that the board has built.