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Rod Broadnax concluded a busy week at his new job with a report to the Grand Coulee Dam School District Board of Directors, when he was sworn in as the new superintendent of the district.

Broadnax told the board he’d met with several teachers and other staff members during the week at their request. “All meetings were very collaborative and very supportive,” he said.

The administrative team will be studying a book this year, he informed the board. “Is my School Better Because I lead it?” by Baruti K. Kafele “to bring reflection and growth.

Broadnax said he sent a letter to the Colville Tribes “in an effort to begin a collaborative, supportive and positive relationship with the tribes.”

He also visited the First Friday festivities in Grand Coulee and also the powwow near Nespelem.

“I had a great time,” he said. “It’s very important that we learn and understand the dynamics in all cultures within our community. I want our students, staff and community to know I care about them, and this engagement begins that process.”

The Raider boys’ basketball team attended a basketball camp at Eastern Washington University last week, and Broadnax’s own boys joined them, he said.

The new superintendent twice visited the construction site at the CTE building, which is getting a new roof and more.

He said he’d begun a “listening and learning tour,” having conversations with each staff member. “This will allow me to build relationships while learning how I can support each staff member.”

Broadnax said he would be implementing a “District Spotlight,” once a month to be given to an employee, community member, or parent he has observed “going above and beyond” on behalf of the school district. The monthly award will include a certificate, a plaque and a Visa gift card “out of the superintendent’s pocket” not out of district funds.

Broadnax said that effective immediately overtime pay will only be approved by his office, with a prior written request before the overtime happens.

“The district spent $125,000 in overtime this past school year,” he said.

Broadnax thanked the board for the opportunity to lead the district.