0:01The most critical discussion centered on the implementation of new educational curricula across Chelsea Public Schools. Dr. Tamar Blake-Cany, the superintendent, presented an initiative involving a $1.7 million investment aimed at addressing inconsistencies in curriculum alignment across classrooms and schools. This strategic move is designed to enhance teaching and learning, particularly in the wake of disruptions from COVID-19. Dr. Blake-Cany detailed that the new materials are rooted in research-based foundations and rigorous evaluation standards. The implementation includes professional development for teachers, allowing them to gradually acclimate to the new curricula. Initially, only a limited number of units were introduced to ensure teacher comfort before a full rollout.

The materials being implemented include Frog Street for early learning classrooms, illustrative math for grades K-8, and Reveal for English Language Arts. Teachers have expressed enthusiasm, especially after witnessing the positive engagement in elementary classrooms. There is growing interest among middle and high school educators to adopt similar materials earlier than planned.

21:08The committee also deliberated on the adoption of a new phonics curriculum, which has received positive feedback from teachers. The curriculum is designed to enhance student learning through activities that encourage understanding rather than rote memorization. A first-grade teacher noted the curriculum’s variety of opportunities, which helps students build confidence in applying phonics skills independently. The curriculum is aligned with standards that promote analysis and higher-order thinking, as reported by a fourth-grade teacher whose students engage in citing texts and providing justifications for their choices.

Discussions on curriculum implementation included the timeline, with elementary grades in their third year of the Fish Tech program, while middle and high schools are in their second year of the Odell curriculum and Reveal Math. The committee acknowledged a growing demand for more writing instruction, leading to the adoption of a common writing assessment that has shown encouraging results in student growth. The district’s performance, particularly in MCAS results, has improved, especially in elementary grades where the earliest implementation of high-quality materials took place.

37:59Another topic was the approval of salary and wage schedule amendments for the 2024-2025 fiscal year. The discussion focused on ensuring equitable compensation for non-bargaining unit members. Clarifications were provided regarding the evaluation process used to adjust salaries. The committee conducted a roll call vote, confirming approval of the proposed changes.

54:14In terms of community initiatives, the committee approved various grants and donations to support educational programs. A $3,000 gift from SRI International was accepted to support student facilitators for the Chelsea High School Student Summit. Additionally, an Emergency Assistance Shelter Reimbursement Grant of $145,260 was approved, aimed at covering costs for students in emergency shelters. The committee also sanctioned a $40,000 grant from the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) to support special education improvement projects, alongside a $25,000 private grant for music programming scholarships.

37:59The meeting concluded with updates and announcements, including recognition of student achievements and community events. Preparations for the upcoming prom, a self-care fair hosted by the Teen Action Project, and a volleyball tournament fundraiser were highlighted. The committee also addressed student attendance rates and dropout statistics, noting a 3.72% dropout rate at the high school level.