The approval of the DECA (Distributive Education Clubs of America) trips was a major highlight of the meeting. Student officers presented their achievements, including receiving the Platinum Award for Chapter Excellence. They sought approval for five overnight trips that would encompass leadership conferences and competitions. The committee was supportive, praising the students for their public speaking skills and commitment to community service. The motion to approve the trips was seconded and passed unanimously.

A significant portion of the meeting focused on the district-wide implementation of the Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) framework. Discussions revealed that the PBIS framework has been in place for nearly a decade, with progress observed across elementary, middle, and high schools. The high school is in the early stages of PBIS implementation, necessitating reevaluation based on feedback from staff and students. The goal of achieving 80% fidelity in PBIS implementation was highlighted, with current data showing elementary schools at 82% and secondary schools at 78%.

The fidelity of PBIS implementation and the challenges of self-evaluation were discussed, with concerns about the reliability of self-assessments by teachers. Visual representations of fidelity measures were described. The importance of comprehensive data in decision-making was emphasized, particularly in addressing systemic issues rather than focusing solely on individual behaviors.

The committee also engaged in a discussion regarding the budget and reinstatement of various teaching positions. The need for a strategic approach to budget management was underscored, with concerns about the financial implications of reinstating positions, such as foreign language, arts, and music teachers. The complexities of scheduling and the potential domino effect of reinstating positions were acknowledged, with emphasis on the challenges posed by mid-year adjustments.

The committee debated the merits of proceeding with the RFP process amid budget constraints, highlighting the need for a phased approach to manage financial burden effectively. Concerns about the reliability of existing fire safety devices and the necessity of comprehensive upgrades were conveyed.

The impact of budget cuts on intervention positions was also a point of contention. The committee debated which interventionist role should be reinstated first, with suggestions to remain flexible in staff placement based on student performance data. The long-term implications of these cuts were acknowledged, with concerns about the difficulty of recovering from lost positions over time.

Additionally, the committee discussed the generous cash donation of $1,011 from the Patel family for the Little Lancers preschool program. The funds are intended for flexible use within the preschool program, potentially for supplies or to assist students with fees like AP testing costs. The motion to accept the donation passed unanimously.

The meeting also covered operational updates and capital projects within the Norton School system. The custodial staff was commended for their efforts in maintaining school facilities, particularly noting the impressive appearance of the Yell School. Ongoing work at the Middle School, including the installation of a second lock system for safety and refinishing the gym floor, was noted. The completion and state approval of the JCS elevator and updates on door locks and handles for JCS and LGN were also discussed.

The committee recognized the need for increased transparency and communication among various boards, particularly in light of recent budget challenges. A member expressed the need for more meetings and better communication to avoid assumptions about funding that were not effectively communicated. The sentiment was that the lack of transparency had led to a loss of trust, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by the district in navigating budgetary constraints and staffing needs.