Superintendent Smith highlighted the district’s growing diversity, noting that more than 25 languages are spoken within the community. Key languages include Vietnamese, Chinese, Russian, and Spanish. With the percentage of students with disabilities rising from 18% to 22%, he underscored the importance of subgroup analysis to ensure all students reach their potential. The report also revealed an impressive average daily attendance rate of over 96%, with Mountain View peaking at 97%. However, concerns arose about student engagement, especially in core classes, with secondary engagement rates needing improvement.

The committee scrutinized survey data showing that 90% of students reported supportive relationships, yet only 59% of secondary students felt engaged. After factoring in responses marked as “sometimes,” the engagement rate rose to 84%. This led to discussions on the need for high-quality instructional materials and the introduction of a new English Language Arts curriculum aimed at increasing student interest through modern texts.

In addition to engagement, the committee focused on wellness initiatives, emphasizing the revised district-wide wellness policy. Set to operate throughout the school year, the Wellness Committee aims to improve health education, physical education, and Food Services, particularly at the secondary level. The need for consistent communication about attendance was also highlighted, with suggestions to partner with parent groups like the PTO to enhance these efforts.

The meeting further explored teaching and learning metrics, with a focus on realistic goals for student performance. The adoption of the DIBELS assessment as an early universal screener was discussed, intended to provide a analysis of student growth. Concerns were raised about the current metrics’ ability to reflect meaningful progress, with calls for accountability and metrics that ensure students grow a minimum of one year’s worth during classroom time.

The committee celebrated notable accountability results, with Maple Shade and the high school recognized for substantial progress toward their targets.

The committee also addressed assessments in English Language Arts, math, and science, noting a general decline in performance across the Commonwealth. Despite this, there was an increase in “high growth” among students, particularly at the high school level. Concerns were directed toward students with disabilities, who exhibited a low growth rate in math.

New assessments and curricular materials were also introduced, with plans to fully implement the DIBELS assessments next year. The committee emphasized the importance of support structures for students needing intensive intervention, facilitated by initiatives like Crafting Minds. The shift in coaching expectations following recent contract negotiations was noted, with increased requests for support as educators navigate curriculum pacing.

In leadership development, the Equity Leadership Acceleration Program (ELAP) was reviewed, which mentors individuals for leadership roles. The committee approved a motion to request reimbursement for program-related expenses.

The meeting also touched on recruitment and retention strategies, particularly the need to support new staff members from diverse backgrounds. Plans for a senior trip to London in April 2025 were preliminarily approved, and updates on capital projects like the Maple Shade roof project were shared. The committee deferred the replacement of an athletic field due to ongoing construction.