Board of Trustees
Meet The Board

Zone 3: Andy Kirkendall
Chairman
Term Expires: 12/31/2029
ankirkendall@payetteschools.org

Zone 4: Terrie Cathcart-Shurte
Vice Chairsperson
Term Expires: 12/31/2027
teshurte@payetteschools.org

Zone 2: Sarah Gutierrez
Term Expires: 12/31/2027
sagutierrez@payetteschools.org

Zone 1: Steven Corta
Term Expires: 12/31/2029
stcorta@payetteschools.org

Zone 5: Racheal Lopez
Term Expires: 12/31/2029
ralopez@payetteschools.org
Board Goals
Mission Statement:
The Payette School District will provide high-quality instruction in a collaborative, respectful learning
environment with opportunities to explore and develop personally; postured for future success.
2025–2027 Board Goals:
- Prioritize Student Achievement and Academic Growth
- Make student achievement our top priority.
- Consistently use data to track student and school improvement.
- Learn what data is important to review and with what frequency.
- Review and understand data as a Board to ensure continuous district improvement.
- Discuss student achievement during February and June Board meetings.
- Acknowledge outstanding student performance and accomplishments.
- Guide Strategic Planning and Long-Term Facilities Improvement
- Use the Strategic Plan as the foundation for board decisions and district funding priorities.
- Integrate short- and long-term facilities planning, maintenance, and improvement into the Strategic Plan to ensure safe, functional, and future-ready learning environments.
- Update and revise the Strategic Plan annually in accordance with Idaho Code.
- Review district policies for alignment with strategic priorities and update as needed.
- Budget in accordance with the long-range facilities plan improvements.
- Ensure administrative and teacher evaluations are aligned with student achievement goals.
- Conduct quarterly Board work sessions to address timely issues.
- Foster a Positive School Climate and Strong Community Partnerships
- Improve communication among the board, administration, schools, teachers, families, and community.
- Encourage parent and community involvement across all schools.
- Support programs that enhance student and staff morale.
- Promote student voice in district discussions on achievement and policy.
- Acknowledge outstanding teacher performance at Board meetings.
- Maintain strong relationships with emergency services and community partners.
- Support professional development opportunities for staff.
- Expand Career Technical Education (CTE) Pathways and Opportunities
- Support the continued development of the new 16,000 sq. ft. CTE Center, which will house programs in Auto Mechanics (Gas and Diesel), Collision Auto Repair, Culinary Arts, Welding, and Construction Trades.
- Prioritize the expansion of industry-aligned CTE pathways, certifications, and dual credit opportunities for students.
- Work with regional industry partners and higher education institutions to align offerings with workforce needs.
- Promote equitable access to CTE for all students, ensuring a variety of options that lead to career or postsecondary success.
