School Board — June 4, 2024

Board held public hearing on using remaining ESSER 3 funds ($35,223-$39,000) for technology purchases before September 30th deadline. Rules have tightened from the state, requiring focus on easily qualifiable purchases.

Student representative reported on spring activities including prom, AP tests, sports championships (girls track won state), class elections, and upcoming German exchange program. Senator Maggie Hassan recognized student as May's Granite Stater of the Month.

Tom Seakins from Energy Management Consultants presented their services for comprehensive energy audits and capital improvement planning. EMC is one of four preferred contractors by Eversource and specializes in schools with 30 years experience.

Board approved meeting calendar with four Thursday meetings scheduled due to voting days and holidays. Annual town meeting scheduled for March 8th.

High school principal reported completion of master schedule by end of year (unusual accomplishment), graduation preparations, and Community Change Maker Challenge implementation.

Principal Kelly reported on middle school baseball loss, prom, senior class whitewater rafting trip to Massachusetts and Six Flags, class elections, and upcoming New England track championship with three student athletes (Mati Lane, Shaylee Murdo, Grace Hall). Also announced senior walk, barbecue, parade, and graduation ceremonies.

Principal Kelly announced successful completion of master schedule by end of year for first time in years, with student schedule drafts to be distributed by end of week. Credited guidance team, Jake, and Matt Stone for achievement.

Two teachers (Mrs. LeClaire in rhetoric and comp, Chris Borg in biology) will participate in Community Challenge program to work on community solutions with their classes.

Principal Kelly recognized departing staff including John Minor and Melanie Thornley (8th grade), Jeff Merrill (moving to admin at Stratford), Michelle Kotmore (retiring), Jane Duggan (IA), and Mackenzie Reed (becoming science teacher at Franklin).

Principal Brown reported on field trips for all grade levels, field day activities, new trees from state grant, Maple Street Chorus performance at Fisher Cats game, student Owen Landman's participation in national Soapbox Challenge, and plan for outdoor eating on last day of school.

Principal Brown reported 55 students registered for kindergarten (above the 54 threshold), requiring posting for fourth kindergarten teacher position. Used Dial 4 evidence-based screener for 42 kindergarten screening sessions.

Harold Martin secured funding for playground shade structure through PTO donation and fundraisers, with installation planned for summer. Structure will consist of two triangles positioned for maximum accessibility.

Director Ruzicki reported ongoing custodial staffing challenges with full-time high school position and part-time position open due to Karen Case's retirement. Highlighted staff support during busy period and summer project planning.

Special Education Director presented comprehensive data showing district percentages above typical 5% special education target, emphasized MTSS approach with 'Maslow before Bloom' philosophy, and reported high meeting volume (5-6 IEP meetings per day).

Technology Director reported on successful AP digital exam implementation, cybersecurity training attendance at NH Digital Governance Summit, and appreciation for support from Primax insurance, State Department of IT, and federal CISA.

Curriculum Director reported on extensive ELA work group process involving 26 educators, comprehensive needs assessment, pilot programs, and selection of Amplify CKLA program. District received $115,000+ in state grants to support implementation.

Extensive discussion of teacher-led work group that evaluated ELA programs and selected Amplify CKLA. The group of 26 educators met regularly to assess needs, pilot programs, and make recommendations based on science of reading principles.

District received $112,344.16 in "Leaning into Literacy 2" grants from the state to fund the new ELA program implementation at Harold Martin Elementary ($76,000) and Maple Street Elementary ($40,000).

Mid-year evaluation of the new middle school schedule showing positive results in teacher satisfaction, instructional time, and classroom management, though some areas need improvement including prep time and Hawk Time effectiveness.

Board authorized the superintendent to conduct hiring during summer break (June 19 - August 13) to avoid losing candidates and special meetings.

Staff resignations, contract changes, coaching nominations, and recognition of Michelle's Excellence in Education award. Three administrators (Matt, Mandy, Chris) completed 3-year contract cycles.