2024-02-26-minutes.txt

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Blaine School District No. 503
  Board Work Session: Mid-Year Reports
Monday, February 26, 2024
  Minutes
  1. Board Work Session
A. Call to Order
Vice President Lazarus opened the work session at 5:00 p.m.

Director Ford had submitted a written resignation. President Leu had also submitted a written resignation.
  All other directors were in attendance.
     Erika Creydt, Ben Lazarus, Cliff Freeman
  2. Work Session Content
A. District Strategic Plan Update
Superintendent Dr. Christopher Granger presented a comprehensive update on the district's 3-year Strategic Plan, outlining key initiatives and objectives aimed at advancing educational outcomes.
  B. School Improvement Plans Update
Blaine School District's Leadership Team (ILT) members provided mid-year reports on School Improvement Plans.
  Primary School Principal Michelle McKeown presented action plans for ELA and math, alongside a comprehensive overview of mid-year assessment data. Notable progress was observed in ELA from fall to winter. Ms. McKeown highlighted the positive impact of Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) on student outcomes, emphasizing the value of weekly collaboration among educators. Director Freeman sought clarification on PLCs and assessment methods, prompting detailed explanations from Ms. McKeown regarding STAR assessments. Additionally, Director Freeman inquired about the Bridges program and the term "phonemic," which were elucidated by Ms. McKeown.
  Elementary School Principal Jordan Radke outlined goals and emphasized the importance of PLC collaboration. Positive growth was observed in both ELA and math, with a focus on utilizing monthly data collection to identify and support students in need. Mr. Radke mentioned the utilization of Reflex Math as an additional resource and highlighted improvements in student attendance. Director Freeman raised questions regarding a "common writing rubric" and attendance progress, sparking discussions on each topic. He commended the elementary school for its increased collaboration within teams.
  Middle School Principal Darren Benson provided insights into math and literacy initiatives, showcasing assessment data comparing fall to winter growth. He emphasized the iterative process of planning and action within PLCs, presenting specific achievements and areas of focus identified by grade level teams. Mr. Benson addressed Director Freeman's inquiries regarding attendance comparisons and the division of PLCs, providing detailed explanations and engaging in discussions on student growth strategies and curriculum standards.
  Interim High School Principal Beth Eide discussed the broader educational goals of preparing students to be engaged citizens, acknowledging concerns about instructional time limitations. She highlighted the integration of core subjects into various disciplines and the role of STAR assessments in anticipating SBAC testing outcomes. Ms. Eide elaborated on PLC collaboration and its impact on student learning, addressing Director Freeman's questions regarding literacy and math growth differentials and the significance of CTE programs. Directors Creydt and Lazarus also contributed to the discussion, exploring topics ranging from college readiness to the impact of AI on literacy education.
  3. Summary Discussion
A. Closing Review of the Work Session
Throughout the presentations, the Board of Directors shared feedback on the information presented, addressing any related questions and concerns.
  4. Adjournment
A. Close Work Session
The work session was closed at 6:10 p.m.
  DATE MINUTES APPROVED: March 25, 2024
   
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                                       BOARD PRESIDENT                                                           SECRETARY/CLERK