0:00A significant portion of the meeting focused on the district’s student attendance rates, revealing a slight decline in high school attendance compared to previous years. Presenters discussed data from the first trimester, showing that 86.7% of middle school students maintained consistent attendance, while high school figures dipped to 82.8%. The board acknowledged the importance of understanding the underlying causes of absences, such as illness, religious events, and anxiety, and emphasized the need for supportive environments to foster student engagement. A board member highlighted the necessity of ensuring students feel connected and motivated to attend school, underscoring the collaborative role of teachers, psychologists, and social workers.

23:19The board also explored the broader implications of attendance data, with requests for demographic breakdowns in future reports to better understand trends. Discussions recognized the correlation between attendance and student achievement, emphasizing the need for ongoing efforts to monitor and improve attendance rates. Suggestions for visual data representations were made to facilitate understanding of attendance trends.

Negotiations with the Cultural Family Advocates (CFAs) were another focal point, with an update provided on the ongoing contract discussions. The district has been negotiating with CFAs since May of the previous year, yet a new two-year agreement remains elusive. Financial aspects, particularly wages and benefits, are key sticking points, with the union’s proposal for a 6% salary increase each year clashing with the school board’s approved maximum of a 3.5% increase. The district conducted a market comparison analysis, ranking second in total compensation among similar metro districts. The negotiation process was described as transparent. The CFA Union has filed for mediation, with the first session scheduled for January 14th.

40:23The meeting also addressed strategic initiatives to enhance language access for the district’s multilingual families. Presentations detailed various efforts to improve communication, such as employing over-the-phone interpreter services, video interpretation during conferences, and providing informational packets in multiple languages. The board emphasized the importance of removing barriers to effective communication, recognizing the role of Culture Family Advocates (CFAs) in supporting families. A proposed Language Access Plan aims to formalize these initiatives.

1:19:35Concerns were raised about the need for real-time translation options during meetings to enhance accessibility for Spanish-speaking families. A board member noted that relying on informal translation from attendees could lead to a loss of diverse perspectives and emphasized the importance of utilizing trained interpreters. The board unanimously approved the Language Access Plan, which includes strategies for continuous outreach and communication with families regarding available resources.

40:23The meeting also covered various administrative topics, including the approval of a final budget for the 2024-25 school year and proposed adjustments to graduation requirements. The board approved the removal of a safety education course requirement to accommodate a new state-mandated personal finance course. Additionally, preschool fees within the Connections Preschool program were adjusted to ensure financial sustainability.

The district’s legislative platform was presented, focusing on addressing inflation, equalization, and compensatory needs, with an emphasis on fully funding employment mandates and maintaining local control. The board approved this platform, reflecting collaborative efforts to refine legislative priorities.

1:19:35In other updates, the board approved the naming of a new elementary school as Emerald Trail Elementary School, following community input and discussion. Superintendent Michael Bolsoni provided reminders about upcoming district events and school holidays, concluding the meeting with a motion to adjourn.