One notable issue discussed was the initiative to introduce a Universal Preschool program within the district. The board recognized the importance of early childhood education and discussed the challenges posed by current classroom space constraints. The ideal class size of 15 students was emphasized to ensure meaningful student engagement. As a result, there was a pause in efforts to accommodate three and four-year-olds in the community, with options under consideration for partnerships with local providers to address these limitations.

The ongoing development of the STEM curriculum across various grade levels was another focal point. The board discussed integrating STEM principles into both science and humanities classes, highlighting the evolution of the STEM program since its inception in the 2018-2019 school year. The middle school STEM program has expanded from focusing solely on science to incorporating critical thinking and creativity into social studies. Notable projects include seventh graders researching monuments and constructing prototypes, which required students to consider infrastructure and defend their designs. This expansion required extensive staff training to maintain scientific principles while integrating these new elements into the curriculum.

The board also emphasized the importance of recruiting and retaining a diverse teaching staff. Professional development initiatives, particularly for multilingual learners, were highlighted. The implementation of the Sheltered Instruction Observation Protocol (SIOP) aims to enhance the educational experiences for students who do not speak English as their primary language. Training on culturally responsive teaching practices has been integrated into faculty meetings throughout the year.

Community engagement initiatives were discussed, with a particular focus on the potential for universal preschool as a foundational step for students from diverse backgrounds. The board expressed its dedication to ongoing collaboration among educators to refine and expand the STEM curriculum.

During the public comment section, a parent, Lisa Perez, voiced concerns over her daughter Mackenzie’s experiences at GNR, where she reported inappropriate behavior, including kicking and slapping, from other students. Perez expressed dissatisfaction with the school’s response, citing a lack of communication and action. A board member acknowledged the seriousness of these concerns and expressed a desire to follow up with Perez to discuss solutions and restore trust in the school.

In addition to these discussions, the board addressed various other topics, including the need for facility assessments, with a focus on HVAC systems and roofing repairs. Plans for possible expansions or reconfigurations of existing spaces to accommodate early childhood education were mentioned. The board also set a goal to increase participation in extracurricular activities by 30%, exploring options to gauge student interest and meet high demand for specific sports.

Efforts to celebrate diverse cultures within the school district were highlighted, along with ongoing professional development related to culturally responsive teaching. The board emphasized the importance of cultivating social-emotional skills among students, with counselors preparing monthly lessons aligned with established standards. Surveys to gather feedback on school climate and culture were also discussed as a means to assess progress and identify areas for improvement.

As the meeting drew to a close, the board addressed routine agenda items, including staffing, agreements, and sports schedules. A member proposed attending a women’s leadership conference, prompting a discussion about registration and expenses. The board also reviewed policies related to member authority and public participation in meetings, with suggestions made to formalize certain protocols.