One notable topics discussed was the communication procedures during emergencies, particularly highlighted by a recent lockdown at Aldine. Concerns were raised about the lack of timely notifications to parents, which caused frustration when updates were only provided after the situation had been resolved. A board member proposed reconsidering how notifications are handled during emergencies to prevent panic among parents. Historically, notifications had been sent during incidents to reassure parents that everything was under control, thereby preventing chaos.

The principal explained that current procedures involve sending notifications only after police clearance, prioritizing the safety of students and staff. A suggestion was made to explore the use of reverse 911 calls to provide quicker alerts to parents, which could help alleviate some concerns. The board noted this suggestion, recognizing the need for improved communication methods. During public participation, a community member echoed the call for faster notification systems, advocating for reverse 911 calls as a solution.

In a highlight, the principal of Robert Gordon School reported on the implementation of the DIBELS assessment for K-2 students. This initiative aims to provide insights into students’ reading capabilities and inform tailored instructional strategies. Complementing this assessment, the University of Florida Literacy Institute program was introduced as a structured approach to reading instruction, supporting foundational literacy skills. The principal acknowledged the critical role of reading interventionists and math and literacy coaches in delivering targeted interventions for students, describing them as “the backbone of our academic success.”

A report from the Special Education Committee focused on professional development plans for district paraprofessionals and evaluating potential needs for special education in the upcoming year. A board member expressed enthusiasm about returning to the Aldine PTO as a liaison, emphasizing the importance of the PTO’s work in strengthening connections between parents and teachers.

The Superintendent’s report covered a range of topics, including acknowledging the accomplishments of Robert Gordon School students and the facilities team for maintaining safe and clean schools during the cold and flu season. The report also included updates on early field maintenance work for spring sports, the installation of new security gating around the sports complex, and ongoing heating concerns to ensure comfortable learning conditions. Feedback from a recent Department of Education visit to the preschool program was discussed, with plans to implement suggested improvements and the addition of a new paraprofessional to enhance support for early learners.

In athletics, winter sports activities were highlighted, with a focus on community-building events, including a tribute event honoring recently deceased figures in the sports community. Proceeds from this event were directed to ALS research. The guidance department announced registration access for multilingual students beginning in February, with priority pre-K lottery registration open until February 28th.

The board addressed several agenda items, including a vote on policy matters, which passed unanimously. Personnel matters involved staff appointments, resignations, and changes. Clarifications were provided regarding revised mentoring rates, addressing discrepancies in reimbursement amounts for non-traditional mentors versus traditional ones. Further discussion ensued about curriculum writing updates and a high school counselor’s pay rate in relation to the minimum wage, prompting a commitment to adjust it in the minutes. A motion was made to approve various education-related items, including tuition for out-of-district placements and conference attendance requests, with justifications provided for sending multiple teachers to the same conference.

The board also discussed the scheduling of the next regular meeting, set to be held at Roselle Park Middle School on February 25th at 6 PM. Vice President Michael-Anne Regan emphasized the importance of community involvement in the upcoming budget workshop scheduled for the same day. A student representative shared information about midterms and upcoming high school events, including an empanada sale, hot chocolate sale, and various school events.