Discussion Items:

Keeping pace with technological advancements: Document cameras, ceiling mounted projectors and white boards are in each classroom as instructional tools. Technology has allowed for greater access to information beyond the four walls of the classroom. In the near future, each student will have an electronic device to use as an instructional tool. Teachers will be involved in professional development that will assist them in increasing their ability to use technology to its fullest advantage.

Educational goals: Data driven instruction is on the increase in the classrooms. Academic growth of each student can be monitored more easily. Concepts that need to be re-taught to individuals, small groups or the entire class can be identified and addressed. A position of “Data Coach” needs to be considered to assist teachers in the collection and understanding of the data, as well as how the data should drive instruction. Establishing rapport is a key to student success. Teachers should make every effort to get to know their students in order to help them grow not only academically, but also to consider the student’s social and physical wellbeing. In addressing the whole child, consideration needs to be given to re-establishing the art and music positions.

Transition: Time lines were established for the transition in the positions of superintendent and technology director for the 2014/15 school year.

Superintendent Evaluation: A short orientation was presented to the board dealing with the procedure for evaluating the superintendent.

Policy Manual Review: New legislation is reflected in proposed policy manual changes. The board was made aware of other changes forthcoming. A draft will be prepared sometime after this legislative session adjourns.

Board self-evaluation: The board discussed the results of a self-evaluation that they had completed prior to the meeting. Only those items that indicated a difference in opinion were discussed. For the most part, the interpretation of the question was the reason for the discrepancy.

Financial Goals: Items that will continue to influence the financial goals of the school corporation include student enrollment, health care costs, unfunded legislative mandates, staff retirements, new compensation model and utility costs. The financial goals will be presented at a monthly board meeting.

Review of current Strategic Plan: Based upon the discussion, the strategic plan will be revised and presented to the board at a monthly meeting.

Other: The board will appoint Jeff Lowry to complete the term of the late Dean Lowry on the West Central Board of School Trustees. Jeff will take the oath of office on Feb. 7 at the regularly scheduled board meeting.