Chris Cronas

The meeting of the District Instructional Materials Committee (DIMC) focused on new course proposals. One pilot course, "MS Visual Communications" for grades 7-8 in CTE (Vocational) subject area, was presented for consideration. Discussions included the structure allowing students to take individual trimesters, planned interdisciplinary connections with science teachers, and ensuring content alignment with high school courses, specifically regarding Adobe learning readiness. The proposal was approved with a 17-0-0 vote. The committee noted that the next scheduled meeting in April 2026 might be cancelled, and the Spanish Curriculum Adoption Committee is scheduled to present in May 2026.

The meeting began with a review of the council's function, emphasizing its role in reviewing technology decisions aligned with district core values and the strategic framework. Key discussion points for the 2025-2026 focus areas were established, including Artificial Intelligence (AI) for learning (in partnership with PlayLab), Cell Phone Guidance Implementation evaluation, Digital Citizenship support, and identifying new staff devices for refresh. An update on the Technology Levy Annual presentation to the Board of Directors was shared, highlighting positive engagement from staff in the PlayLab AI Learning professional development sessions. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to reviewing data and gathering detailed feedback on the implementation of the Cell Phone Guidance across secondary schools, including reviewing pouch usage statistics and planning outreach via surveys to students, families, and staff to refine the guidance.

The Renton School District's Strategic Framework for 2025-2026 aims for each student to graduate with options and be prepared for full participation in democracy, guided by core values of service, excellence, and equity. Key priorities include enhancing family and community engagement, fostering excellence in learning and teaching through improved K-2 literacy, 3-8 mathematics skills, and 9th-grade success strategies, and removing barriers by supporting students' social-emotional needs and engaging secondary students in extracurricular activities.

The District Instructional Materials Committee meeting focused primarily on reviewing new course proposals. Discussions included the proposal for 'RTC ECED& 105 Intro to Early Childhood Education' aimed at allowing high school students to earn ECE Certificates. The committee also reviewed 'AP Business with Personal Finance,' a new course focusing on financial literacy under College Board's Career Kickstart program. Further agenda items involved the proposed 'MYP Spanish' curriculum structured by fluency topics rather than traditional grade levels for middle school, and 'BC SPAN& 221 Spanish IV' to strengthen high school language pathways. Other proposals discussed were 'EWU GERM 103 First-Year German III,' 'Journalism Communications,' 'AP 3D Art & Design, Ceramics,' and 'BC ART 111 Design Color.' The purpose of the evening was outlined, emphasizing the committee's role in reviewing materials before they proceed to the School Board for adoption.

The document outlines the 2025-2026 athletics salary schedule for Renton School District No.403. It includes stipends for high school head coaches, assistant coaches, cheer/dance/drill advisors, and middle school intramural coaches, with compensation varying based on years of experience.