The girls’ hockey team, coached by Jeremy Gunderson, captured attention as they made history by becoming the first team south of the metro area to win a state championship since 1997. Gunderson recounted the team’s journey, emphasizing their growth and the overwhelming community support they received throughout the tournament. Gunderson expressed gratitude towards the coaching staff, all of whom are alumni, and acknowledged their hard work and commitment to achieving this significant milestone.

In addition to sports achievements, the board delved into educational advancements, particularly in computer science. The district, supported by a $10,000 grant from code.org, has been proactive in integrating computer science into the curriculum. A Computer Science Advisory Council was established, comprising industry leaders and educators, to develop a curriculum that aligns with workforce demands. This initiative aims to provide students with hands-on experiences, preparing them for future opportunities in the tech industry.

An alumni donor’s contribution of $15,000 annually has further bolstered the district’s computer science program. This funding has enabled the development of a middle school robotics program and allowed high school students to engage in projects such as programming lights for school events. The curriculum, which now includes mandatory eighth-grade computer science courses, is designed to introduce students to coding early, fostering interest and proficiency in the field.

The board also addressed the importance of flexibility and adaptability in programming, with plans to engage families through events like a Family Coding Night. This approach ensures that the curriculum evolves alongside students’ increasing skills, preparing them for more advanced challenges.

In another discussion, the board reviewed the Professional Learning Community (PLC) initiatives for prekindergarten and elementary staff. The Community Education director, Jenny Carrier, highlighted the progress made through PLCs, emphasizing early childhood letters training. This training involved 22 hours of coursework and 12 hours of live sessions, with teachers collaboratively engaging in these sessions to enhance their instructional strategies.

The board received a presentation on assessment tools, including the Core Advantage assessment for preschool students and the TS Gold assessment tool for early childhood special education. These assessments aim to prepare students for kindergarten, with a goal for 78% readiness this year. Challenges such as developmental delays and limited exposure to schooling were acknowledged, and the need for consistent evaluation and support was emphasized.

Behavioral data tracking was another focus, with an app being used to log incidents among preschool students. Efforts to address behavioral issues included social skill groups facilitated by the Early Learning Coordinator.

The meeting also included discussions on high school programs, emphasizing internships aligned with coursework. Recognizing the value of vocational skills, the board explored opportunities for students to engage in internships with local organizations. This approach acknowledges that college is not the only path, with skills such as AutoCAD offering lucrative career opportunities.

Financial matters were addressed, with the acceptance of donations for the robotics team from various individuals and organizations. These contributions support a range of needs, from teacher grants to library enhancements. The board committees reported on ongoing financial discussions, highlighting concerns about potential budget cuts due to legislative decisions.

The legislative committee expressed frustration over unfunded state mandates, particularly regarding special education and unemployment payments for school staff. The need for adequate funding and support for mental health and behavior modification was a recurring theme, with educators seeking resources to manage complex situations effectively.

The meeting concluded with a focus on mentorship programs and student transitions. Initiatives with representatives from RCTC were introduced, providing students with career exploration opportunities before committing to college expenses. These efforts aim to guide students in making informed decisions about their futures.