Board Report - 9/16/22
Vea la versión en español del Informe de la Junta Directiva aquí.
This is a summary of the Pasco School District Board Meeting on September 13, 2022.
View the School Board Meeting Online
Recognition
Recognizing Gabe Scheel and Teachers
Gabe Scheel, a student at Ray Reynolds Middle School, and his teachers were recognized during the Board Meeting.
The district learned of Gabe's story during the calendar art contest for the 2022-23 district calendar, when the district office received a painting submission from Gabe's teachers on his behalf. Gabe's painting had a photo and story attached to it, which described how Gabe suffered a traumatic brain injury at age five, leaving him disabled. Ray Reynolds Middle School was the first school he attended, and his teachers taught him how to communicate and paint through eye gaze technology.
This story has inspired many people throughout the district and our community. It is an excellent example of how Pasco teachers go the extra mile to support students and make them shine! One of our community members who was inspired by Gabe's story was Brian Moreno, past Chair of Washington State Commission on Hispanic Affairs, who presented Gabe with a plaque and personal letter from the Governor, Jay Inslee.
2023 Legislative Session: Setting PSD Priorities
Marie Sullivan, Legislative Advocate, discussed setting 2023 legislative priorities during a study session with the Board. During the discussion, she reviewed April 26 work session ideas discussed by the PSD Board, the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction and Washington Association of School Administrators budget priorities, and other budgeting considerations by state agencies.
The legislative priorities will be finalized at a future regularly scheduled Board meeting.
School Start-Up Report 2022-23
Mira Gobel, PSD Assistant Superintendent of Instructional Services, presented an update to the Board regarding initial enrollment numbers for this year. Enrollment in elementary, middle, and high schools has increased overall compared to the past two years, and the headcount is up by 153 students as of Tuesday, September 13.
The district's October count day is Monday, October 3, 2022.
View the presentation
Small Innovative High School Program Design Update
Jennifer Kindle, Executive Director of Teaching & Learning, and Laura Jones, Director of Career & Technical Education, provided an update regarding the program design planning process for the small innovative high school on the February 14, 2023 bond.
Ms. Kindle introduced the steering team and presented framework examples and instructional components that could make up the innovative school design, and Ms. Jones discussed potential Career Pathways focuses and stackable career options.
Next steps include hosting a fall stakeholder engagement meeting and student forum, continue meetings with the Steering Team to refine designs, and conduct innovative school visits.
First Reading: District Policy 3421 Child Abuse Prevention
Sarah Thornton, Assistant Superintendent of Operations & Legal Services, presented a first reading of Policy 3421, which addresses requirements for the prevention of child abuse. The policy is being updated consistent with Washington State School Directors’ Association (WSSDA) model policy language.
The updated policy will be presented on the consent agenda for action on September 27, 2022.
Board Meeting
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