Brian Blaum

This document provides an academic update for the Delaware Valley School District for the 2024-2025 period, detailing the district's strategies and performance in academic achievement. It outlines a data-driven approach utilizing various assessment tools to analyze student performance and growth, identify areas of need in specific subjects and student subgroups, and implement targeted actions for improvement. Key initiatives include ongoing curriculum revisions, professional learning for staff, and fostering a collaborative culture to enhance instructional practices and student outcomes, while also highlighting significant areas of academic pride and success.

This document provides an academic update focusing on data analysis, curriculum adjustments, and performance metrics for the Delaware Valley School District. It outlines a multi-pronged approach to academic achievement, emphasizing curricular re-writes, common assessments, and the utilization of various data tools such as PVAAS and the Future Ready PA Index. Key areas of focus include improving ELA and Math proficiency, addressing specific subgroup needs, and adapting to changes from the Pennsylvania Department of Education. The update also highlights academic accolades and areas of pride, showcasing growth in standardized test scores, AP performance, and special education outcomes, alongside details on ongoing curriculum revision timelines.

The meeting included a presentation about the America 250 project, which involves a bell painted by Delaware Valley students to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States. The board also heard from high school journalism ambassadors participating in the meeting as youth news ambassadors. The board discussed the water situation on the main campus, which has been resolved, and the impact of the past budget from the state, including changes in funding formulas and cyber school reimbursement.

The work session included discussions on contract negotiations, policies up for first and second review, and budget finance and facility matters. There was a mention of getting a capex plan, but it was delayed due to unfinalized numbers. The session also touched on special topics such as changes passed budgetarily and in the school code, cyber charter reform, certifications, and the Bills Across America program. Additional points included counselor assignments, the well project, water issues at the high school, and upcoming events like the DDMS drama production and winter sports.

The session involved a review of policies undergoing first and second review. Key policy discussions included updates to the Exemption from Instructions Policy (105.2) regarding dissection notice, updates to the Foreign Exchange Students Policy (239), and correcting a title reference in the School Bus Drivers Policy (810.1). The board also discussed the Capital Expenditures (CapEx) list, particularly vehicle replacement strategies based on mileage, noting recent price increases for new chassis and delays due to chip shortages. Discussions also covered upgrading security cameras and route mapping software (Versa Transits).