https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1JGVgVzzA7oO7Nu-zJsTTTx8lk3F6c2FK2Ti7jvtQ-20/edit

Molly Wright presented shared an update on the schools ELA / iREADY read-out for the current school year. The test measures reading, writing, speaking and listening skills of the students. Molly shared the scope / focus of the tests, then explored the data / findings in a detailed presentation comparing fall 24 and winter / Jan 25 test scores. While scores have improved over the 6-month period,  ca. 20% of the student population remains in the "at risk / concern" category. Comprehension and vocab continue to be key areas of concern for a large portion of the student population,  in particular in grades 5-6. 

Board members discussed findings with Molly and explored opportunities to help support the development of at-risk students.  The board also explored how it could be more engaged in ongoing strategies to develop and advance student learning through additional presentations at MCCPS board meetings (e.g academic excellence updates, student council and MCCPS LT presentations). Additionally, the board also discussed how we can share student learning / development data with parents / potential community applications to support student recruitment. 

Agenda item moved to May MCCPS Board Meeting.

Lindsay Smith shared recent updates from the Mass Charter Association on the perceived lack of advocacy for charter schools in the state, including a number of bills working through the state legislature.  The board agreed to play its role in advocating / supporting MCCPS and the broader concepts of charter schools within the local community. 

Enrollment

• Current enrollment numbers  were shared before HoS explored the intent to return data received by current families;172 are returning (ca 93%), with approx. 6% of the student population making choices to move to different educational experiences in our local communities. HoS has been actively engaged in understanding key reasons for families who are electing to leave the school. The board was highly appreciative of  this fact-finding strategy to understand the underlying drivers.
• HoS shared expected projections are ca. 230 for the MCCPS in the 2025 - 2026 calendar year. However,  applications from sending districts still remain low and below DESE-mandated targets. This concern was discussed with DESE by the HoS. DESE reiterated their preference to focus on overarching school enrollment numbers over meeting sending district numbers.  
• HoS shared concerns about ensuring equity for student / family participation in school events / trips as school enrollment numbers trend upwards with concomitant changing demographies. The board discussed strategies / solutions to help provide additional financial support for students through additional fund-raising activities. 

Staffing 

• Interviews / recruitment are underway in key open positions, including changes to math and science leadership. 

Misc

• HoS updated the board on pending reports to DESE including a draft accountability plan.
• The math team participated in a DESE / TNTP instructional course in Worcester to develop key instructional skills / capabilities. 

No discussion.

No discussion.

No major updates. Ongoing activities to recruit new MCCPS board members continue. 

New committee members identified and kick-off meeting is being planned. 

Ongoing planning for May 10 social / fund-raising event includes a silent auction. Oct 4 has been identified for the 30 Yrs MCCPS anniversary gala.

CoB shared progress on the HoS evaluation process. CoB encouraged board members to complete BoT and Val-ED surveys. 

The board discussed recent parent complaint relating to staff turn-over and subsequent feedback from parent. The board reviewed procedures for parent complaints.