The board’s curriculum revisions were a central topic of discussion, particularly the plan to add an honors level course for AP World History. The changes aim to democratize access to higher-level classes, with potential benefits for college credit and preparation. Concerns about students’ readiness and the impact on AP exam scores were debated, but the board expressed overall support for the changes, acknowledging the challenges and uncertainties associated with the transition. The superintendent presented a plans for the sequencing of the new curriculum and addressed concerns about the transition period.

The recommendation to bring back final exams at the high school was another focal point. The majority of teachers supported the exams as valuable for assessing students’ knowledge and providing a cumulative assessment experience. Final exams are seen as beneficial in preparing students for college and the workforce and as an important aspect of a varied assessment experience. The proposed guidelines for the exams included having them in every course except for PE and health, as well as a transition period for students. The board members expressed support for the move, recognizing the value of final exams in assessing student knowledge and readiness for future academic and professional challenges.

In an innovative effort to increase visibility of school activities and empower student voice, a proposal was presented for students to produce daily announcements for the middle and high school, to be posted on the school’s YouTube page. The board discussed the potential benefits of fostering creativity and communication skills, as well as the logistics and guidance necessary for quality control of the content. There was support for the proposal, with members recognizing it as an exciting development meeting students’ desire for involvement and connection. The plan also included adjustments to the schedule to accommodate the daily announcements and a semester-long independent study class for students to focus on production.

The meeting touched on the implementation of a phonics program for elementary schools. A committee selected Sonday and Phonic First for the kindergarten through third-grade pilot, with praise for their multisensory and systematic approaches. A professional development plan for teachers and the possibility of expanding the program to fourth and fifth grades were discussed. The costs for implementing the program were already budgeted for the 2024-25 school year. Moreover, the school’s efforts to become a “no place for hate” designated school were highlighted, involving schoolwide activities to promote inclusivity and respect.

Additionally, the board addressed the restructuring of intervention and coaching positions. This included changing roles of media specialists, adding elementary coaches for intervention strategies, and adjusting responsibilities of literacy and math coaches and gifted and talented teachers.

Financial management was also a topic of concern, with the board deliberating on an audit extension that would cost an additional $8,800. They discussed the long-range facility plan and capital projects, including roof and boiler replacements, paving, and general abatements, with an estimated total cost of $5.25 million. Progress and bids for various capital projects, such as the home economics room, PK expansion, turf and lights, and gym stairs, were reviewed, some of which were over budget, necessitating further review.