The board’s exploration of trauma-informed care was a central topic. A comprehensive three-year program was presented as an initiative to integrate restorative practices and address the needs of students experiencing trauma. This program builds upon critiques of the existing Rise program, which has been limited in scope, and aims to unify various support strategies across the district. Stakeholders expressed enthusiasm about the potential of this model to enhance student well-being and address behavioral challenges more effectively. The board acknowledged the need for sustained coaching and community engagement to foster a supportive school culture.

The evaluation of student support services was another focus. The board reviewed findings from program evaluations, including the Rise program, Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS), and the school counseling program. The Rise program, noted for its restorative justice framework, faced challenges related to staffing and training inconsistencies. The MTSS program, providing academic and behavioral support, grappled with inconsistent criteria for entering and exiting support tiers and the misallocation of interventionists’ time. The school counseling program was praised for strong community connections but struggled with role ambiguity and excessive clerical duties. Recommendations for these programs emphasized the need for additional resources, standardized assessment tools, and a clearer definition of counselors’ roles.

In tandem with these discussions, the board examined the district’s financial health through an audit presentation. The audit revealed only one recommendation. The report highlighted an increase in state aid and local tax contributions, though federal funding was decreasing as American Rescue Plan and ESSER funds phased out. Expenditure increases in instructional expenses and student services were noted, driven by the addition of staff such as counselors and aides. Capital expenditures included significant projects like roof repairs and chiller installations, with the district maintaining a healthy capital reserve despite rising costs. The discussion also addressed fund balances, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a 2% unassigned surplus as regulated by state law.

Policy updates were another critical component of the meeting. The board contemplated modifying the high school graduation policy to require FAFSA completion, sparking concerns about the additional burden on families. The student smoking policy was also reviewed, with an emphasis on therapeutic over punitive responses to electronic smoking device infractions. Adjustments to the student grievance policy aimed to extend filing timelines, providing students more time to address issues. Additionally, the board explored communication strategies to better engage families and streamline processes.

The HIB policy required updates to align with a new Memorandum of Agreement with law enforcement, raising concerns about language clarity, particularly regarding immigrant students.

Public comments included a statement from an employee at the Bartle School after-school program, expressing concerns about the political climate’s impact on immigrant students. The board’s response highlighted a commitment to protecting these students and ensuring their safety within the school environment.