Blake Barton

The council continued its review and discussion regarding the proposed 2019-2020 school calendar for the district. It was determined that an electronic survey would be distributed to all council members to facilitate individual recommendations on the three calendar options presented.

The council meeting covered several new business items including introductions of new members and a review of board policies regarding planning and decision-making processes. Discussions were held on committee terms for representatives, the District Needs Assessment process, and the role of Texas Academic Performance Reports. The committee also received information regarding school calendar formation protocols and stakeholder input impact on future calendars, and reviewed revised evaluation instruments for educational diagnosticians and school nurses.

The council discussed upcoming meeting dates for the remainder of the year and outlined the agenda for the next session, which will focus on Board Policy and the development of school calendars. Additionally, the council reviewed the four goals and 13 performance objectives of the Plan for District Improvement.

The Amarillo Independent School District's Family Engagement Plan, revised on February 15, 2024, emphasizes the critical role of parent involvement and strong home-school connections for quality education. The plan is structured around informing parents about academic progress and teacher qualifications, engaging them in joint decision-making through various committees and annual meetings, and educating them on academic content, state standards, and district programs. It provides diverse engagement opportunities such as workshops, academic nights, and resources for areas like socioemotional learning and digital citizenship. A core commitment is to reduce participation barriers for all families by providing accessible information in multiple languages and formats, aiming to foster effective partnerships that promote the academic and personal development of all students.

This document outlines the Amarillo Independent School District's Return to In-Person Instruction and Continuity of Services Plan (RIPICS) for the 2021-2024 school years. The plan's overall purpose is to ensure a safe, productive, innovative, and high-quality educational experience for students, parents, staff, and the community amidst the evolving COVID-19 pandemic. Key focus areas include maintaining the health and safety of students and staff through measures such as physical distancing, enhanced cleaning protocols, and coordination with health officials. It also details how the district will ensure continuity of services by addressing student academic needs through intervention programs and providing comprehensive social, emotional, and mental health support for both students and staff. The plan emphasizes a commitment to in-person instruction and includes a process for periodic review and revision based on public health needs and stakeholder input.