A discussion centered on the integration of AI in educational curricula and the need to update policies to reflect technological advancements. The board acknowledged the dynamic nature of AI. The meeting included a proposal to redraft the current AI policy to provide more detail and clarity, and an AI workshop for board members was planned to further explore the implications of AI in education. Concerns were raised about the adequacy of current career and technical education programs, particularly with regard to the skills being taught. The board noted the potential obsolescence of certain coding skills and stressed the importance of adapting curricula to align with current industry demands.

Efforts to enhance communication with families about available educational choices were also highlighted. The board recognized that the extensive choice booklet outlining program options can be overwhelming for parents. To address this, a marketing strategy is being developed to better inform families about the district’s offerings. A sample of a new career pathways booklet was presented, illustrating how students will be able to see required coursework and certifications for specific programs, such as applied cybersecurity and construction management.

The board discussed the introduction of new programs aimed at expanding career pathways for high school students. Four new programs are set to open next school year at various high schools, including AI at Palm Beach Gardens High School, biomedical engineering at Atlantic High School, quantum computing at Royal Palm Beach High School, and construction trades at another high school. The expansion of career dual enrollment programs was also emphasized, providing students with opportunities to gain practical experience by working at technical centers.

A presentation revisited the district’s A1A initiative, aimed at strengthening career pathways and choice programming. The initiative, incorporated into the strategic plan approximately five years ago, focuses on preparing students for various post-graduation paths, such as college, military enlistment, or direct entry into the workforce. The presentation highlighted that over 35,000 students engage with these programs, with students collectively earning over 10,000 industry certifications within a single year. The district’s engagement with industry partners and community organizations was noted as a key factor in aligning educational programs with local job market demands.

The board recognized the importance of career advising, particularly for middle school students. The current counselor-to-student ratio poses challenges, prompting the use of an AI tool called Zello to help students create career pathways starting in eighth grade. There is a need for more comprehensive career advising from seventh grade onward to prepare students for high school programs.

The meeting also addressed the challenges posed by the loss of approximately 6,000 students in the district. Suggestions were made for broader outreach, including town hall meetings and commercials during key times of the year to draw students back to the district’s programs. The board emphasized the importance of effectively marketing the programs to create excitement in the community about the educational opportunities available.

As the meeting progressed, the discussion included updates on library media services, with a noted decrease in postings leading up to the winter break. A question was raised regarding the math rubric review, which had been canceled, seeking clarification about future updates to the rubrics. An invitation was extended for general comments or questions from board members, with attention brought to a prevalent concern among parents regarding the inconsistency in policy related to sending home math tests for review.