Cara Foley

This document outlines the 2023-2024 Special Services Priorities for the Shelton Public Schools Special Education Department. Key strategic areas include improving student outcomes for special education students by addressing academic and social-emotional needs through Multi-Tiered Systems of Supports (MTSS) practices, fostering a nurturing and inviting climate through effective transition planning across elementary, intermediate, and high school levels, and enhancing communication and family engagement via informational presentations and resources. These efforts aim to support student achievement, well-being, and seamless transitions while ensuring families are informed and actively involved in their child's educational planning.

The Shelton Public Schools' foundational statements outline its purpose, aspirational future, and guiding principles. The vision aims to prepare all students with the necessary skills and knowledge to become responsible and successful citizens of a global society. The mission is to provide educational programs and opportunities to develop students' skills, knowledge, and character in a safe and respectful environment. Core beliefs emphasize providing effective research-based instruction, engaging families and the community, offering a challenging and rigorous curriculum, and supporting student learning through professional development.

The meeting provided an overview of the district's plan for the reopening of schools in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. Key discussion topics included the implementation of health and safety protocols such as the use of face coverings, social distancing measures in classrooms and common areas, and custodial maintenance procedures. The Superintendent addressed questions regarding distance learning plans, the potential for half-day schedules due to air conditioning limitations, provisions for injured students requiring elevator access, and the status of fall sports and extracurricular activities. Additionally, the meeting covered plans for student cohorts under a potential hybrid model and the need for professional learning days for staff.

The meeting included discussions on healthcare initiatives, athletics, and high-performance student programs. The Board reviewed various operational matters and organizational developments regarding school activities, budget considerations, and student performance standards.

The board discussed the budget process, including the submission deadline to the city and the planned timeline for upcoming workshops. Key discussion topics included salary and benefit obligations for certified and non-certified staff, current budget deficits resulting from previous underfunding, and the impact of healthcare costs on the budget. The superintendent outlined the plan to present the budget in a series of sessions to achieve a net-zero balance.