Jan Mitchell, LWV Observer
Absent: Mike Berthelsen
Public Comment: Owners of Making Waves swim school, Northfield Athletic Club, and Snap fitness center presented concerns about a YMCA facility which might be built on school property.
Announcements: Filing for school board positions is open until 5 p.m. on August 17th. At this time, the 4 incumbents have filed. There are 3 four-year terms and 1 two-year term open.
About 90 teachers and administrators took part in Technology Boot Camp this summer to upgrade their skills with technology.
Thirteen high school students participated in all state music camps this summer.
Reports:
Dr. Richardson presented the State of the District report, which included:
Celebrations- among other things
*good programs to help students entering Kindergarten, 6th & 9th grades
* successful implementation of weekly PLC sessions
* Companeros and ESL program improvements
* reconfigured Title 1 services
* teacher contract negotiations
* technology upgrades
* Energy Star recognition
* food service collaboration with local producers
Challenges – among other things
* renewing charter school authorization status (red tape!)
*class size issues
*validity of single test as indicative of success
*financial stewardship in light of state budget crisis
*renewal of current operating levy (efforts to begin in fall of 2011)
MCA-II Test results:
*outperformed state averages in math, reading and science at every grade level tested
*increased number of Limited English Proficient students who performed at or above grade level in reading – grades 3,5, & 7.
*increased number of Special Education students performing at or above grade level in reading – grades 5,6, & 7
*increased number of Free & Reduced Price lunch students performing at or above grade level in reading – grades 5,6,7, & 10
Even so, if a subgroup with 20 or more students does not achieve grade level proficiency, the NCLB penalties apply. (about 70% of state school districts are subject to these penalties)
Greenvale Park is facing a 2nd year without making AYP (adequate yearly progress) in spite of showing significant gains for ELP & Special Ed. students. As few as 5 students in the FRP lunch program might have salvaged the situation if they had made the grade level standard.
Bridgewater also did not make AYP, but this is the first year, so they are not subject to sanctions.
Sibley, the Middle School and the Area Learning Center also had subgroups which did not make AYP, but they are not Title 1 schools, and so are not subject to sanctions.
The High school had all its subgroups making AYP.
Actions: Unanimously approved
- group dental, health, life and disability insurance plans
- school board election calendar
The meeting adjourned at about 8:45 and the Board then conducted a closed negotiations strategy session.
