The North Bend School District Board meeting on August 16, 2025, featured a significant discussion regarding an interdistrict transfer denial for a student, Corey Stoddard, who has been part of the district since kindergarten. The meeting began with a presentation from Corey's parent, who expressed concerns about the reasons for the denial, which were primarily based on attendance and behavior.

Corey's parent argued that his attendance record for the 2024-2025 school year was strong, with only one or two excused absences due to illness. While acknowledging that Corey had been tardy to his first-period class, the parent emphasized that these tardies were not indicative of a broader attendance issue, as Corey had signed a sports contract requiring a 90% attendance rate, which he maintained without reprimand.

The parent also addressed the behavior concerns, noting that Corey had only received one day of in-school suspension (ISS) during his freshman year and had generally received positive feedback from teachers. Several teachers had offered to assist Corey by monitoring his attendance and behavior more closely, suggesting a check-in system to help him stay on track.

The emotional impact of the transfer denial was highlighted, with the parent expressing that switching schools would negatively affect Corey's education and mental health. The parent noted that Corey's relationships with peers and staff were strong, having built a supportive network over many years.

In response to the denial, teachers and coaches expressed their surprise and offered to advocate for Corey, either through personal appeals or written letters to the school board. The parent urged the board to reconsider the decision, emphasizing the importance of allowing Corey to continue his education within the North Bend School District.

The meeting concluded with the board acknowledging the concerns raised and indicating that they would review the situation further, considering the input from Corey's teachers and the potential impact on his well-being.