The meeting’s central topic was the presentation on the district’s website overhaul, led by Erica Title. This project, part of the district’s operational plan, aims to enhance user experience across the 13 associated websites. The existing site, launched in 2018, was deemed outdated in the rapidly evolving digital landscape. Title outlined a thorough 3D design process that included gathering feedback from staff and families, analyzing user engagement data, and conducting site audits. With over 150 websites reviewed for best practices, the team concentrated on improving technology experiences, content streamlining, and search functionality.

The redesign encompasses three development areas: site organization, visual design, and content communication. A comprehensive site map has been created for better content organization, and new site maps for all 13 areas were developed. A card sorting exercise ensured logical content organization, with input from staff, families, and students. Visual design involved collaborating with a designer on prototypes, informed by discoveries from the feedback phase. The content strategy was adapted, guided by insights on page visits and engagement.

Title previewed anticipated enhancements, such as streamlined navigation, a “find it fast” button for easy access to popular pages, and an emphasis on using original school photography over stock images. Past survey concerns about the athletics and activities site were addressed by improving its navigability. Users were informed of potential temporary content inaccessibility during DNS changes. To mitigate issues, updated site maps will be submitted to search engines post-launch to enhance visibility. Board members expressed enthusiasm for the changes, with one describing the preview as “amazing.”

The board also focused on summer programming, presented by Dr. Hope, detailing a robust lineup for students from kindergarten to high school. The “Summer Counts” program targets students from kindergarten to eighth grade who have not met academic goals, starting July 7 at Park Terrace and Westwood. Last year, it drew approximately 450 participants. High school programs will focus on academic competencies and credits, beginning the week of June 7. Potential relocation of the high school program to Westwood after July 4 was mentioned, due to air handling projects.

Summer child care registration began on March 1, with capacity nearing limits for both “Learning Ventures” and “Discovery Days.” Learning Ventures themes include nature exploration, storytelling, STEM activities, and arts. Around 50 enrichment programs will be offered, with athletic camps drawing significant interest. These camps enable younger students to engage with older peers and high school coaching teams, fostering community and athletic involvement.

Enrichment classes provide unique summer opportunities without requiring full-time child care. Offerings include technology courses, babysitting courses with business management skills, and a “Shark Tank junior camp.” Arts programs include Rock and Roll Band Camp. A free summer meal program will provide meals to students aged 1 to 18, operating the week after school ends through August 21 at Westwood Intermediate and Middle School and Park Terrace. “Kinder Camp,” scheduled for August 19-21, offers a free experience for incoming kindergarten students to acclimatize to school.

The meeting also covered financial and legislative updates. A financial report detailed February’s cash balance of approximately $63 million, with significant revenue from state aid, federal meal programs, and high school sports registrations. Expenditures were described as regular, with comparisons made to previous years, considering COVID-19 impacts and federal relief grants. Legislative updates highlighted budget targets from the governor, Senate, and House, with potential education funding cuts raising concerns.

Superintendent Jeff Ronneberg addressed enrollment trends, noting a flattening due to fewer young children in the community, a trend seen statewide. This, coupled with uncertain future funding, requires vigilant monitoring and informed decision-making regarding resource management. The board unanimously approved staff appreciation week, acknowledging educators’ contributions and declaring May 5-9 as the designated week. The board also accepted gifts to the district, underscoring community support.