Shafara Douglas gave an invocation.

Jenny Knopf led the Pledge of Allegiance.

Jenny Knopf read the mission statement.

Cameron Chandler read the vision statement.

Dr. Ivey welcomed Jane Hray who presented updates to the Gifted and Talented program that included a revised guidance document outlining services for identified gifted and talented students, as well as academic enrichment programs. The document includes updates on programming models, identification requirements, and evaluation processes. Key changes include clarifying the focus on talent development for kindergarten through second grade and an achievement-focused model for third through fifth grades. The presentation also highlighted the addition of a school psychologist, which has expanded testing opportunities and identification capabilities. The committee discussed the importance of being good stewards of funds while providing quality programming for high-achieving students.

The committee discussed changes to the gifted and talented program structure, proposing a shift from a pull-out model to a cluster class model for 4th grade due to growing cohort sizes and potential disruption in the current model. Plans to implement capstone projects in grades 4 and 5, with teachers having flexibility to design appropriate projects rather than following a strict template were outlined. The discussion also covered the need for gifted and talented endorsed teachers, particularly for middle school honors classes, and explored options for providing this certification, including tuition reimbursement for staff members.

There was focus on discussing curriculum and scheduling decisions for middle school programs, particularly regarding gifted and talented students. Recommendations were presented for clustering gifted students in special classes rather than using a pull-out model, noting developmental concerns about middle school students' preferences for group settings. 

The committee discussed curriculum options for middle school, including iReady for math, potential Houghton Mifflin materials for reading and writing, and McGraw-Hill Inspired Science, with particular attention to state adoption requirements and funding implications. 

The committee also reviewed changes to the social-emotional learning curriculum.

Dr. Ivey reviewed resolutions to be presented to the Board: Curricula, YASS Loan, and the proposed updates to the testing security policies and grading practices.

Dr. Ivey reviewed sucession planning: Executive Leadership and Sustainability Planning and Dr. Ivey’s Legacy Plan. There has been progress on the executive leader search with 42 applicants received, and phase three of the process beginning next week. 

• Full Board approval of the curriculua recommendations.
• Ms. Hray provides an update on compliance requirements and possible ramifications of not having teachers GT endorsed.
• Dr. Ivey will  align with HR best practices on the new sixth grade teachers who are actively seeking GT endorsements.mmittee in March.  
• Mental wellness options to be presented at the May committee meeting.
• Staffing request consideration (2.0 FTEs;1.0 FTE for hybrid admin & 1.0 for full time resource for EA/JA).