The meeting opened with an emphasis on transparency and public participation, with the board conducting the meeting both in person and virtually. Discussions revolved around the importance of aligning vision, establishing accountability, and striving for continuous improvement. The board’s consultant, Matt, introduced the cyclical nature of the goal-setting process, which includes setting goals, planning, reporting progress, evaluation, and self-evaluation. Matt emphasized the need for data-driven decision-making and the distinction between district goals, which focus on operational aspects, and board goals, which concern processes owned by the board.

In evaluating the previous year’s goals, the board acknowledged progress in the Early Childhood Program but recognized the lack of new additions in the College and Career Readiness program. They also debated how to measure the goal of knowing all students and providing support, hindered by the lack of an action plan. Some board members, including Dr. Ricardo Martinez, suggested revisiting these goals after another year’s worth of evaluation under Dr. Vespignani’s leadership.

Proposed goals for the upcoming year, presented by Dr. Vespignani, focused on increasing student achievement and engagement, streamlining human resources operations, and enhancing communication and community partnerships. These goals were developed collaboratively with the administrative team and aligned with the board committee structure. The board members expressed their support for the proposed goals and emphasized the importance of student and family involvement in the process.

In addition to setting district goals, the board discussed the importance of understanding and adhering to bylaws. The idea of outsourcing policy review was suggested, and board members emphasized the need for a focus on basics and efficient operation. The superintendent encouraged the board to focus on specific areas of the bylaws rather than attempting a comprehensive review.

Professional development and orientation for new board members were deemed . The board agreed on creating a 90-day orientation program for new members, fulfilling mandatory training requirements, and engaging in professional development to support district goals.

The mission statement was another point of focus. Dr. Martinez suggested considering it as a goal, and the board agreed on drafting a new mission statement rather than revising the old one. The superintendent assured the board that he would send a recap of the meeting, including the goals discussed, and provide a template for an action plan. They continue to evaluate and refine their strategies, always with the best interests of the students at heart.