MARYSVILLE – Efforts to increase student attendance and to improve budgeting were discussed at the Marysville school board’s work session Monday.

Assistant superintendent Lori Knudsen said the district is coming up with a work plan on what home visits will look like if a student misses too much school.

It is also checking with other districts to find out “what they are doing that kids are passionate about,” she said.

Director Pete Lundberg said there needs to be an incentive for students. Director Tom Albright suggested maybe the community could help there.

Director Chris Nation said home visits are a perfect opportunity to engage parents, which is a goal of the district.

Superintendent Jason Thompson said because of the large hispanic population the district should find a liaison who speaks the language and understands the culture.

Also, finance director Mike Sullivan talked about connecting budget requests to the district’s Strategic Plan.

Nation brought up the district may have some great programs but questioned if they are sustainable because grants from elsewhere that fund them may not be available in the future.

He said, “It may be the best plan in the world,” but if funding ends the program may have to be cut. “We can’t jeopardize our financial stability.”

It was newly elected school board member Paul Galovin’s first meeting. Vanessa Edwards was named board president, with Albright vice president.