Burnt Hills Ballston Lake School District

This document outlines the Burnt Hills Ballston Lake Central School District's Shared Decision Making (SDM) plan, which aims to engage staff and the community in improving instruction and student outcomes. The plan emphasizes a consensus-based approach, ensuring all stakeholders—including students, teachers, administrators, parents, and community members—are involved in decisions that impact student achievement. Key elements include the structure of various committee types (Building Councils, Standing Committees, and Ad Hoc Committees) and a collaborative process designed to foster accountability and ownership for optimal student results.

This document details the requirements and framework for school districts to develop plans on how they will utilize increased Foundation Aid funds for the 2023-24 school year. It mandates public engagement, stakeholder feedback, and specifies key priority areas for fund allocation, including increasing graduation rates, reducing class sizes, providing academic and social-emotional supports, and addressing needs of English language learners, students with disabilities, and homeless students. The plan also allows for district-identified priorities such as facility upgrades, athletic equipment, and addressing staff shortages, aiming to improve student performance and well-being.

The document serves as a repository for the board meeting minutes for the Burnt Hills - Ballston Lake Central School District.

The board meeting featured a student presentation from the Odyssey of the Mind team, which discussed their creative problem-solving projects and upcoming world competition. There was also a recognition of Teacher Appreciation Day, highlighting the crucial role of educators. A presentation on technology and distance learning was provided. Additionally, the board held a public hearing for the district safety plan, which is slated for adoption in June, and conducted a hearing for the 2019-2020 district budget, reviewing the development process and public outreach efforts taken to present the proposed budget to the community.

This District Diversity Plan outlines the commitment to affirming individual uniqueness and valuing diverse identities within the school community. It focuses on three key areas: Human Resources, aiming to increase staff diversity and improve hiring practices; Student Experience, ensuring all students feel valued, celebrated, and empowered; and Curriculum, by integrating diversity, equity, and inclusion principles into educational content and resources. The plan emphasizes continuous evaluation, professional development, and collaborative actions to promote an inclusive and equitable environment.