Pullman Public Schools board discussed new ways to keep students engaged online as they transition to in-person learning and updated meal services during a meeting Wednesday evening. 

Students are doing an excellent job upholding state and local COVID-19 guidelines to ensure their safety, said Jim Bruce, Jefferson Elementary School principal. 

“They’ve just been doing a great job of adhering to all of the safety guidelines that we’ve put together,” he said. 

Students have assigned classroom and recess cohorts for the school day. Bruce said they had no problems with students not abiding with cohort expectations.

Bruce said Jefferson Elementary has several in-person classes, and he hopes to expand that number as the district continues to navigate the pandemic. 

The district has increased the number of sports and activities taking place. Bruce said he enjoyed seeing students back in person while visiting several schools this past week. 

“That’s really, really refreshing and encouraging as we work our way towards the end of the year,” he said. 

Jefferson Elementary teacher Jen Harbour presented ways she keeps her students engaged in a virtual format. Harbour said she created “STEM adventures,” an activity where students receive a pack of supplies and participate in various challenges. 

“This system that we’re using seems to be working,” she said. “I think the kids are enjoying it. We are definitely looking forward to getting back to teamwork, but for now, it’s been a good process.” 

The district is making several adjustments to its free meal services. They are currently planning how meal kits will be provided to students during the summer, Nutrition Services supervisor Jessie Campbell said.  

“Currently, we are providing breakfast and lunch free of charge for all students every day that they’re in school,” she said. 

Campbell said they are also handing out three and five-day meal kits for the days students are not attending in-person school.

All district schools are also working toward incorporating healthier options into their menus, with food made fresh in their kitchens, she said. 

Campbell said students will have various smoothie, salad and pasta options to choose from each time they eat at school. 

Superintendent Bob Maxwell gave an equity update. Maxwell said he plans to work closely with a board of student representatives to ensure the inclusion and acceptance of all students are enforced. The district will create the panel before the end of the year.