A major highlight of the meeting was the presentation on the assessed results from the 2023-2024 school year, revealing substantial progress in student performance. Notably, eighth-grade students achieved or exceeded the state average in English Language Arts and mathematics for the first time since 2019. The presentation reported positive trends in Advanced Placement (AP) results, with an increase in the number of students taking AP courses and exams. Improvements were seen across various student demographics, including male and female students, those with disabilities, and economically disadvantaged students.

The analysis of the past eight years highlighted that eighth graders in English Language Arts showed improvement, though writing remained an area needing focused instructional strategies. New teaching methods, such as implementing a writer’s workshop model, are being adopted to address these deficiencies. In mathematics, seventh and eighth graders demonstrated significant improvement, particularly in Algebra 1, where the passing rate increased from 46% to 86%.

A concerning issue arose regarding the students who were just below the passing threshold on assessments. The discussion included inquiries to the state about potential rescoring of tests, which was deemed too costly at $500 each. Despite this, the overall trend in student performance was positive, with consistent improvements reported among various subgroups. The dual credit program also saw significant growth, with the number of students earning college credit nearly doubling from 42 to 80, offering students opportunities to reduce future college expenses.

Plans for continued improvement were outlined, focusing on increased professional learning aligned with new instructional materials for English Language Arts and mathematics. A tiered support system is being implemented to address academic concerns more swiftly. The presenter expressed optimism about the overall trends and the hard work being done in classrooms to support students’ academic success.

The meeting also included a discussion on the management of student cell phone use within the high school. One board member noted that while there hasn’t been a significant problem with cell phone usage, the approach varies among individual teachers. Some educators have implemented a system where students must place their phones in a designated area upon entering the classroom, referred to as a “shoe rack.” Other teachers maintain a more lenient policy, allowing phones to remain in students’ bags unless they are visibly disruptive. There was an emphasis on the need for consistency in enforcing these rules, including the assignment of detentions for repeated offenses.

The conversation also touched on the implications of cell phone use during emergencies, prompted by a recent incident in Georgia. Concerns were raised over whether students had the ability to contact for help in critical situations.

Staffing changes for the upcoming 2024-2025 school year were also approved, including new hires and adjustments in staff roles and responsibilities. The board unanimously endorsed these changes, which also included the approval of stipends for staff engaged in professional development and the approval of athletic positions.

Financial matters were reviewed, with the board’s treasurer presenting reports from previous months, emphasizing the sound financial standing of the district. Grant awards from the Italian Department and partnerships with local banks to assist students with essential supplies were also announced.

A point of discussion was the approval of inter-district transportation services with the Fu Regional School District. This motion received support.

The meeting addressed efforts to improve the overall school environment, particularly concerning bullying and discipline. The vice principal reported on strategies to improve school culture, including new dress code policies and schedules that have benefited student transitions between classes. Feedback from students regarding the effectiveness of these new measures was discussed, with particular attention to how these adjustments have impacted punctuality and overall student experience.