The Winona Area Public School District's recent school board meeting spotlighted significant updates to the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) committee bylaws, aimed at enhancing the committee's effectiveness and participation. Superintendent Brzezinski presented a series of proposed changes designed to eliminate barriers that have hindered the committee's work since its inception.

Key among the revisions is the restructuring of membership guidelines. The committee will now include up to 21 members, comprising three school board members, six district staff, nine community members, and three students. This change clarifies term limits and membership roles, ensuring a more inclusive and representative body.

Another major adjustment involves the application process for community members. The previous requirement for a set application deadline has been replaced with a rolling application system, allowing for more flexibility and responsiveness to vacancies. This shift aims to streamline the onboarding process, which has previously taken up to three months, causing delays in member participation.

The meeting also addressed the committee's meeting schedule. The rigid requirement for monthly meetings on a specific day and time has been replaced with a more flexible approach, allowing the committee to set meeting times that accommodate its members better. This change is expected to increase attendance, particularly from students and staff.

Additionally, the quorum requirement has been a point of contention. The current rule mandates that at least three community members be present for a meeting to proceed, which has often led to cancellations due to low attendance. The proposed revision would allow meetings to continue with fewer members, emphasizing the advisory nature of the committee's work.

Board members expressed strong support for these changes, highlighting the need for the DEI committee to operate without unnecessary restrictions. The adjustments are seen as crucial steps toward empowering the committee to make meaningful progress in promoting diversity and inclusion within the school district.

As the board moves forward with these recommendations, the anticipated outcome is a more dynamic and effective DEI committee, capable of driving positive change in the Winona Area Public School District.