A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to addressing the racial achievement gap in math proficiency between Black and White students. The board acknowledged that, despite efforts, the gap, reported at 50% in spring 2024, remains a issue. The data-to-action process was highlighted as a key strategy. This approach is intended to address stagnant growth among some Black students and improve overall academic achievement.

A matrix for discipline has been introduced, and staff received training in behavior understanding and de-escalation strategies. The goal is to increase the use of non-exclusionary practices by 30%, although the need for clearer definitions of disciplinary terms was noted to aid data tracking.

A district team, including a restorative practices coordinator and social workers, has been delivering lessons on self-regulation and problem identification using the Zones of Regulation framework for grades K-12. Reports of increased kindness in the school environment were noted, contributing to a more welcoming atmosphere. The principal from Aquilla School expressed pride in these developments, emphasizing the importance of students feeling safe to express their needs.

The board also focused on the retention of students of color in Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) classes, noting an improvement in retention rates from 86% to 94% over the past year. Plans to conduct focus groups and individual conversations with students were proposed to better understand their experiences and address challenges in retention. The board recognized the need for a root cause analysis to identify specific actions contributing to these improvements and further enhance support systems for students.

In terms of budgetary management, the board discussed strategies to maintain financial stability while addressing rising costs in special education and staffing. The finance advisory committee’s recommendations to understand, reduce, and stabilize cost drivers were emphasized, with a focus on retaining positions that directly impact students. The district’s budget plan includes an increase in special education revenue to account for rising expenditures, as well as built-in contract settlements for nearly all employee contracts. The board aims to maintain class sizes despite financial constraints, with a contingency fund established to address potential staffing needs due to enrollment changes.

The board’s financial strategy also involves a examination of capital projects and operating capital to ensure expenditures align with their designated purposes. The anticipated decrease in local revenue, largely due to midyear budget adjustments related to gifts and donations, was discussed.

The meeting concluded with discussions on policy updates, particularly regarding Policy 715, which involves federal grant guidance. Key changes included an increase in the micro-purchase threshold and enhancements in procurement practices. These updates are part of the district’s ongoing efforts to maintain compliance with federal standards and ensure the effective use of resources.