The meeting opened with a presentation by Miss Rodriguez and Miss Norman regarding the assets and WIDA scores related to English language proficiency among multilingual learners (MLs). The presentation highlighted that the Dover School District, as part of the WIDA Consortium, administers the ACCESS test annually to MLs in grades K through 12. This standardized assessment measures proficiency in listening, speaking, reading, and writing. The data revealed an increase in the ML population, growing from 749 in June 2022 to 1,213 by August 2023, with an additional 189 preschoolers identified as MLs. This brought the total to 1,402, representing 40% of the student population.

Miss Rodriguez and Miss Norman noted that 48 students exited the ML program this year, compared to roughly half that number previously. These students will be monitored for two years to ensure their continued success, with interventions available if needed. Initiatives for the upcoming school year include expanding the dual language program to grade three, providing ongoing support for bilingual and ESL teachers, and introducing new resources like IStation.

Questions from Board members focused on the availability and utilization of WIDA score reports, the integration with the I-Ready program, and the monitoring of exited students’ progress. The discussion also explored the dual language program’s participation rates and the trend of younger students exiting the program more rapidly than older ones, though this trend was not confirmed by the presenters.

Following this, the meeting transitioned to a presentation by Ms. Flores on the Tiger RAP program, which addresses mental health support within the district. Flores introduced herself as the new program manager and detailed the program’s structure, including a team of nine individuals dedicated to various aspects of mental health services. The program includes evidence-based initiatives like Youth Mental Health First Aid, diversity and inclusion presentations, and healthy relationship initiatives. A notable success was the volunteer and work fair organized for high school students, particularly refugees, providing opportunities for gaining work experience.

Further presentations highlighted the clinical services provided to students, focusing on behavior management strategies and the variety of support groups available. The increase in referrals for clinical services was attributed to the implementation of youth mental health first aid training for 11th graders. Presenting symptoms primarily included anxiety and depression, with family-related concerns and transition difficulties being environmental factors. The psychiatric component reported nine evaluations, with several students receiving psychiatric clearance and others referred for medication management.

The discussion on mental health services also covered crisis response measures, with 40 crisis de-escalations reported at the elementary level, primarily at North Dover. The role of peer mentors in planning mental health awareness events was emphasized, leading to increased student participation in summer programming. The potential expansion of mental health first aid training to other grade levels was considered, with concerns about feasibility and staffing challenges noted.

In administrative updates, the Board announced the final stages of selecting a new permanent superintendent after conducting interviews with over 35 candidates. The details of this appointment are expected to be finalized within the coming weeks. Additionally, the Board noted the successful school forum held on August 12th, which focused on lunch applications, the Genesis Parent Portal, and technology readiness. A significant backpack distribution event at Belmont saw overwhelming family turnout.

The Board also discussed the need for bilingual psychiatric services, the implementation of conflict resolution programs for ninth and tenth graders, and the importance of connecting with families regarding student needs. Public comments included inquiries about the generator project at the high school and the efficiency of the BoardDocs platform.