The girls’ basketball team’s recent victory was a notable item of discussion. The board expressed pride in the team’s success and stressed the importance of supportive relationships between coaches and athletes. Plans were announced to further honor the team in a future meeting, especially in light of their upcoming state championship game against Bonner Pendergrass Catholic High School. The board encouraged community support for the game, scheduled for Saturday at 2 PM in the high school gymnasium.

In a discussion, the board explored the school’s PBIS program, which aims to foster a safe and respectful environment for students. The PBIS program is structured into tiers, with the school seeking Tier 3 recognition, a potential first for Thomas Holtzman Elementary. This tiered system includes building-wide supports under Tier 1, with Tiers 2 and 3 offering targeted interventions for students with behavioral challenges. The program’s success was supported by data showing a reduction in behavioral referrals. For example, one student reduced their office referrals from ten in January to two by the end of February after targeted intervention. These improvements were attributed to the efforts of the advanced tiers team, comprising the assistant principal, school counselor, and behavior interventionist, who track data and tailor plans to student needs.

The board also celebrated a $236,000 grant awarded for the district’s school-to-work program, aimed at expanding the cadet teaching initiative. The announcement was made during a visit from the Secretary of Labor and Industry, and board members who attended the event acknowledged the program’s potential impact on career education.

The meeting also addressed various school events and initiatives highlighting family involvement and student engagement. The Thomas Holtzman Elementary PTO, led by Renee Windows and Marie Rutherford, was recognized for its contributions, including organizing the Trunk or Treat event that drew over 2,000 participants. The PTO’s efforts in organizing assemblies and running the school store, the Hoot Hut, were noted for enhancing students’ educational experiences. Renee Windows, serving as PTO vice president, was especially commended for her extensive volunteer work, contributing over 200 hours this year. The board awarded the Windows family a certificate of appreciation and a school district blanket in recognition of their commitment.

In the academic arena, Thomas Holtzman Elementary’s transition to competency-based learning was discussed, with a focus on grouping students by competencies rather than traditional grade levels. The school has implemented a walk-to-math intervention model, forming 108 groups daily to address specific skill deficits in math and English Language Arts (ELA), supported by instructional coaches and interventionists.

The board also highlighted recent student accomplishments, such as the swim team’s placement at districts and receipt of the sportsmanship award. These achievements underscore the district’s emphasis on student behavior and teamwork, reflecting positively on the school community.

In procedural matters, the board approved a new procedure for roll call votes to increase transparency. Other agenda items, including personnel and finance matters, were also addressed and approved without contention. Discussions included upcoming book fairs and family nights, which aim to support learners and recognize staff contributions.