Superintendent Kelly Weldon, along with Dr. Morgan and Miss El Chave, presented an extensive overview of the district’s strategies for supporting multilingual learners. The presentation highlighted the increasing number of newcomer students and the diverse backgrounds they come from, with a variety of home languages spoken. The district has recognized the necessity to adapt and prioritize support for these students by implementing tier one interventions, teacher coaches, mental health staff, and intervention acceleration resources.

The presenters detailed the assistance provided at each school, specifying the number of multilingual learners and the programs designed to support them. They emphasized the importance of culturally responsive teaching, understanding students’ diverse needs, and integrating their home languages and cultural experiences into the learning environment.

Miss El Chave expanded on the demographic specifics of multilingual learners, addressing the rise in newcomers and the implications for instructional practices, materials, and social-emotional support. The district’s efforts also include the hiring of ESL certified educators and funding new positions to enhance the educational experience for these students. To engage and support the families of multilingual learners, initiatives such as a parent resource fair, a virtual webinar series, and a parent family video library have been organized.

The board voiced concerns about the sharp increase in the newcomer multilingual student population, deliberating over whether this was a local trend or reflective of a broader statewide issue. Members discussed the financial implications of supporting the growing multilingual student body and the challenges associated with it. They underscored the need for proactive measures to ensure equitable education, including addressing social and emotional learning and enhancing cultural responsiveness.

A discussion about the budget followed, with a focus on the proposed increase in substitute teacher rates. Superintendent Weldon explained the need for competitive rates to attract more candidates, proposing rates from $90 to over $200. It was clarified that these positions were not subject to bargaining agreements. The board also discussed the loss of substitutes to neighboring districts offering higher daily rates. The introduction of new courses such as an AP prep course and a VIP algebra course aimed at improving student preparedness for higher-level coursework and expanding access to rigorous academic opportunities was met with enthusiasm.

In addition to the primary topics of multilingual learner support and budget considerations, the meeting covered other important areas. The board acknowledged the school’s activities, including the successful pep rally and the performances of the girls’ bowling and boys’ wrestling teams. Superintendent Weldon reported on the school’s communication methods during weather disruptions and recognized achievements in the school’s geography bee.

The Student Safety Data Report was presented, which covered incidents within the district. Upcoming district events, such as the high school winter chorus, were also mentioned. The approval of various agenda items ensued, including negotiations and policies, with Mrs. McGovern announcing the commencement of negotiations and Mrs. Gilman mentioning the final reading of certain policies and regulations.

The public’s involvement in the meeting was evident in the comments section. A member of the public, Alex Hayes, raised concerns about limitations on asking questions during the meeting and questioned the allocation of committee chairs. Hayes also brought attention to the purchase of period products and commended the comprehensive report on multilingual learners.

The meeting concluded with the acknowledgment of School Board Appreciation Month and the approval of a uniform State Memorandum of Agreement. Mr. Weinstein highlighted the importance of collaboration between citizens and public school staff. The board then adjourned, with the next meeting scheduled for the following month.