Derrick A. Nottingham

This Division Literacy Plan for Portsmouth Public Schools aims to establish a learning community where all students become critical thinkers, confident communicators, and skilled readers and writers through personalized and inclusive instruction. The plan outlines strategies across six key areas: comprehensive communication, selection of high-quality instructional materials, implementation of evidence-based reading research training, systematic monitoring of student assessment and progress, assessment of division-level literacy progress, and engagement with parents and the community.

The board discussed several items including the approval of a resolution recognizing American Education Week, the readmission of a student to an alternative placement, and a presentation on the Bloom Program for students with disabilities. Board members were recognized with VSBA Academy awards for professional development participation. Additionally, the Superintendent provided updates on the State of the Schools Breakfast, STEM activities, a division-wide college fair, and upcoming professional learning days.

The meeting featured reports from the student representative on new school cell phone policies and recent school programs. The Board recognized the championship-winning Churchland Middle School football team and presented certificates to newly elected and re-elected School Board members. Departing board members were honored for their service. The Board approved various consent items including policy updates, personnel transactions, financial reports, a grant fund increase, and a General Fund budget revision. Additionally, the Board voted to approve the 2025-2026 instructional calendar and received updates on curriculum, instruction, and upcoming school holidays.

This plan details how Portsmouth Public Schools will utilize $46,741,523.12 in American Rescue Plan (ARP) Act Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER III) funds. It outlines strategies for ensuring safe school operations through prevention and mitigation efforts, addressing unfinished learning via virtual support, tutoring, and instructional resources, and improving school infrastructure and transportation. A core focus is on addressing students' academic, social, emotional, and mental health needs through dedicated programs and support services.

The board conducted a closed session to address a religious exemption request and legal consultation. Key agenda items included a compensation study update focused on market competitiveness and retention, a cell phone policy update in accordance with Executive Order 33 to restrict device usage during instructional hours, and a review of proposed 2025 school board meeting dates. The board approved multiple reappropriation requests for the 2023-24 budget across the General, Grant, Risk Management, Textbook, and Food Services funds. Additionally, the board approved an electrical services contract and received reports on technology upgrades and committee activities.