The meeting began with a discussion on graduation assessment performance, focusing on the academic achievements and challenges faced by students, particularly those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds and students with disabilities. Out of 333 members of the class of 2025, the data presented highlighted the readiness of students based on their scores. There were notable achievements, with eight additional students deemed competent in English and 46 in mathematics after utilizing secondary pathways for graduation eligibility. However, the board remains focused on the 27 students in English and 69 in mathematics who still needed to improve their scores.

To support students needing improvement, the board discussed the opportunities for retaking assessments. After a two-day assessment window in July, an additional opportunity is scheduled for October. To assist these students, the district plans to organize practice assessments led by teachers. Students in grade 12 will also have the option to retake the PSAT in October and are encouraged to participate in the SAT, which can substitute for competency tests. Curriculum adjustments include a concentrated focus on English and mathematics, with revised schedules in both middle and high schools to enhance instructional consistency.

An innovative “gamer mathematics” course for ninth-grade students scheduled for Algebra was introduced, aimed at reinforcing their skills in a practical context. The focus on improving student performance extended to multilingual learners, with emphasis on language acquisition programs. Each spring, students are assessed to determine their progress, with exit scores outlined for those ready to leave the program.

The board also addressed how data from assessments is used to inform curriculum changes. The district collects and distributes this data to principals and teachers, allowing for necessary enhancements in curriculum design. This approach emphasizes addressing issues early, ideally starting in freshman or sophomore years, and includes scheduling changes to create a coherent instructional experience.

Following the academic discussions, the superintendent’s report provided updates on key dates for the upcoming school year. The first day for new students is scheduled for September 4th, with all students returning on September 5th. Back-to-school nights for the middle and high schools are set for September 11th and 19th, respectively.

Security measures were a focus of the superintendent’s report. Interviews for security monitor positions were completed, with two candidates recommended for hire. These positions aim to enhance safety, particularly regarding bathroom situations. The board also discussed a comprehensive Equity plan and a remote learning plan, the latter being a preparatory measure in case school closures occur for three consecutive days or more.

The business administrator reported on the filing of petitions for three vacant board seats, with some candidates running unopposed. Upcoming workshops and capital projects were also highlighted, including renovations of kitchen and cafeteria facilities, a lighting project converting approximately 1,000 lights to LED, and the installation of electronic door locks and a new paging system at the middle school.

In terms of transportation, the administrator reported on bidding for ten school routes, recommending an award to GST, and affirmed school routes for the board. An incident involving a cyber upgrade required diligent work from the IT department but was resolved without significant disruption.

The curriculum committee report, presented in the absence of Mrs. Bond, included a pre-presentation on state graduation assessment data. An overview of the class of 2024’s graduation performance was provided, noting that 367 students graduated with various mechanisms employed to meet assessment proficiency requirements. Specifically, 84 students used a substitute competency test, 39 employed a graduation portfolio appeal, and one was exempt due to GPA.

As the meeting transitioned to the consent agenda, various routine items were approved collectively, including minutes from prior meetings, financial reports, and budget transfers without debate. A question was raised regarding coaches’ appointments, which were clarified as additional positions either not filled or adjusted since the last meeting.