The board’s adoption of the Amplify ELA curriculum was a focal point, as it reflects a step towards enhancing the district’s middle school literacy program. The curriculum, which is set to be implemented in September, includes a mix of digital and print resources aimed at improving student engagement and learning outcomes. The team responsible for recommending Amplify ELA had conducted a rigorous two-year curricular review, examining various programs against criteria such as text quality and support for all learners.

The importance of diverse texts in the curriculum was also a significant topic, with speakers stressing the inclusion of stories and materials that reflect a variety of cultures and perspectives. The curriculum will feature texts like “The Narrative of Frederick Douglas” and explore global events such as the Chinese Cultural Revolution.

The discussion extended to the analysis of student performance data, particularly concerning the Dibbles assessment, which measures literacy skills. The board noted performance discrepancies among student subgroups, including those with disabilities and English language learners. Members discussed targeted interventions and professional development to address such gaps, as well as the potential implementation of the Writing Revolution, a structured writing approach.

The board also covered various professional development initiatives focused on student outcomes and the sense of belonging. These initiatives included the creation of Tier 2 intervention classes, the piloting of professional learning communities, and the upcoming launch of Middle School conferences. Additionally, the meeting addressed the redesign of middle school course offerings to align with RMHS Innovation Pathways, introducing new courses aimed at exposing students to different career and academic paths.

During the meeting, the board deliberated on the allocation of $200,000 to the Special Education Reserve Fund, with approximately $75,000 set to return to the town. This decision was part of a broader financial discussion that included budget transfers and the approval of consent agenda items. The allocation aimed to ensure financial stability while managing the unpredictability of special education district costs.

Another point was the granting of professional teacher status (PTS) to 14 district teachers after three years of consecutive employment. The board emphasized the sensitivity of decisions regarding staff non-renewal and hiring.

The meeting also touched upon the superintendent’s formative review and contract amendment, which were approved unanimously. A proposal to consider a 3% salary increase for the superintendent passed without debate. Additionally, the annual reorganization of the board was addressed, with the Chair position filled unanimously, while the nomination for Vice Chair was postponed.

In the realm of community engagement, the board voted to create an ad hoc committee to commemorate Bill Russell and appointed a member to the facilities renaming subcommittee. The K-12 School Building Committee reported on design schemas and upcoming community meetings, while the Recreation Committee discussed summer programs and pickleball.