Cynthia A. Ford

The Ashford Board of Education held its Annual Strategic Planning work session. The agenda included discussions on administrator goals and improvement plans for 2025-2026, current and future programming for Ashford School, and board priorities for FY 26. Members of the public advocated for hiring a Library Media Specialist and discussed policy requirements associated with the Connecticut Right to Read law. There was also discussion about encouraging more community participation within the school and recognizing opportunities to learn new skills. The board also reviewed its policy review plan.

The Ashford Board of Education held a meeting that included a board reorganization, during which officers were elected. Chonte Fields was elected as Chair, Jennifer Leszczynski as Vice-Chair, and Kurt Love as Secretary. Al Maccarone submitted a letter of resignation from the Board of Education. Committee assignments were made for Facilities, Finance and Operations, Curriculum and Educational Optimization, and Policy. The board discussed and accepted the retirement letter from Michael Mellady. The 2026 Board of Education Meeting Schedule was approved. There was a discussion regarding the 1st Quarter Financial Report.

This strategic plan outlines key goals for a school district across four main areas. The Curriculum area focuses on improving teaching and learning by providing training for new programs, educating families, and increasing student SBAC scores in Math and Reading by reducing the percentage of students below grade level. It also includes implementing a new math program and researching reading programs to align with state ELA curriculum initiatives by the 2023/2024 school year. The Financial area emphasizes ensuring comprehensive stakeholder input during the 2022/2023 budget process. The Culture area aims to improve the overall school climate for staff through surveys, regular meetings, and direct engagement. Finally, the Community relations and facilities area focuses on fostering open communication with the community via monthly articles and weekly alerts, providing access to administration, and continuing Capital Improvement projects.

The Ashford Board of Education held a special meeting to discuss several key items. These included the FY 23 Budget, the Principal Search Committee, and the March 2022 Financial Statement. The board also discussed the next meeting date and potential agenda items, as well as a possible executive session to address personnel and staffing matters.

The agenda includes the election of officers, such as the chair, vice-chair, and secretary, along with committee assignments. The board will discuss a staff resignation, approve the 2026 Board of Education meeting schedule, and schedule a Finance, Facilities, and Operations Committee meeting. Additionally, the first quarter financial report will be distributed. The board also provides opportunities for public comment.