Clarkstown Central School District

This document outlines the District Safety Team Plan, a comprehensive framework for ensuring a safe learning environment through prevention, response, and recovery. Key elements include an enhanced safety program, the establishment of a Threat Assessment & Management Team, and robust community partnerships. The plan details staffing, investments in facilities, equipment, and safety technology, alongside continuous training, mental health supports, and effective communication systems, all committed to ongoing improvement.

CCSD's strategic plan focuses on meeting the academic and social-emotional needs of all students within a safe environment. The plan aims to empower students to reach their full potential in a complex society. Key components include advancing learning, supporting social-emotional and ethical development, investing in community expertise, and promoting a safe and respectful environment. The vision is to cultivate well-rounded critical thinkers who can communicate effectively and contribute positively to a global society.

The Clarkstown Central School District is rolling out a new vision to make students more Future Ready. The three tenants of this process are technology awareness, cultural competence, and financial literacy. The plan focuses on exploring cultural awareness, different cultures, and traditions in the classrooms. It also includes immediate changes in areas like Falcon foundations, where students will begin exploring financial literacy curriculum. Additionally, students will learn how to coexist with artificial intelligence and use it responsibly.

The Clarkstown Central School District proposes a program titled "Deep Learning through Culturally Relevant and Gender Equitable Pedagogy in Computer Science, Engineering, and Educational Technology." This program aims to increase student enrollment in STEM courses by addressing the underrepresentation of females, minority groups, and students with disabilities. The program will achieve this by providing high-quality professional development for K-8 teachers, focusing on culturally responsive and gender-equitable pedagogy, content knowledge in STEM fields, and deep learning instructional design. Teachers will create and implement transdisciplinary units, fostering a collaborative professional learning community to promote STEM equity. The partnership with Mercy College Center for STEM Education will support the program's implementation, aligning with the NYS Smart Start grant's focus on workforce development and addressing societal challenges.

The meeting provided an overview of the district safety program, including updates on camera and card access, bus cameras, FFMS floor tile replacement, and the D.A.R.E. evolution. Discussions focused on social media and school threats, including social media practices for parents and communication strategies. The current climate of school threats was reviewed, highlighting a significant increase in threats and arrests across the nation. The meeting also covered district and building safety and emergency plans, including security personnel, surveillance systems, and alert systems. School safety drills and mandatory staff safety training were also discussed. Finally, the meeting touched upon news items such as Governor Hochul's cell phone ban listening tour and new state laws regarding social media and child data protection.