Board Buzz
1. Academic Services -- Assistant Superintendent of Academic Services Meocha Williams introduced GT coordinator Julie Gann, who shared an update on services provided to students identified as gifted and talented (GT). Nearly 22 percent of our district's total enrollment is GT, with around 9,000 students. "We ensure opportunity and access," Gann said, noting that GT participants are growing in numbers and diversity.
2. Construction Progress -- Chief Operating Officer Myron Thompson presented this month's construction highlights, including progress on the middle school on Polo Club Boulevard and the combined Career and Technical Education Center on Midland Avenue.
3. Equity Update -- Soraya Matthews, chief of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, & Belonging (DEIB), reported how her department is hosting "equity chats" with staff in the John D. Price Administration Building and recognizing Student Equity Champions and Staff Equity Champions in our schools. She also welcomed students from Maxwell Spanish Immersion Magnet Elementary and Paul Laurence Dunbar High School, who described DEIB initiatives in their buildings.
4. Budget Update -- Deputy Superintendent Houston Barber shared a brief update on the recent budget work session, including 2023-24 priorities. "More information will be forthcoming as we continue to plan and build the budget," Barber said. The board will approve a tentative budget in late May and a final budget in September.