Elizabeth Bruni

The board meeting included a special recognition for a high school student who achieved a state championship wrestling title. The primary agenda focused on the 'Elevating Eastchester High School' initiative, which includes aligning curriculum, instruction, and assessment. Key discussion topics involved updates on AP program rankings and course offerings, the introduction of new elective courses across various subject areas, and dual enrollment opportunities. Additionally, the board reviewed the impacts of a schedule redesign aimed at fostering deeper learning, collaboration, and consistent instructional practices, as well as the implementation of targeted academic support services within the district's MTSS model.

This document outlines a strategic vision for 'Elevating Eastchester High School' through four core pillars: Academics, Student Experience, Culture and Community, and Future Readiness. The plan aims to expand educational opportunities and rigor, redesign student schedules and support systems, foster a connected and supportive school culture, and prepare students for future success through capstone experiences. Key initiatives include enhancing learning environments, strengthening health and wellness partnerships, and promoting civic engagement within the community.

The work session provided a comprehensive overview of educational and technology initiatives. Key topics included curriculum and instructional updates such as Destination Imagination, high school scheduling changes, and advisory programs for student wellness. The board also reviewed college and career readiness strategies, including the rollout of College Kickstart software. Technology updates covered the implementation of artificial intelligence tools, a new student information system, a three-year plan for MacBook distribution, security system upgrades, the establishment of a student and staff tech support desk, and the development of a high school makerspace for STEM education.

The meeting included student reports from Greenville (focusing on empathy and community service through card making for a children's hospital) and Anne Hutch (highlighting a Japanese calligraphy program). Eastston Middle School provided updates on the second half of the school year. Eastchester High School reported on spirit week activities, a basketball event, and upcoming advisory sessions, including a panel on college transition and a presentation by the Leukemia Foundation. Student listening sessions provided feedback on the new schedule, noting positive sentiment regarding drop days and class period variation, but raised concerns about parking/accessibility, study center promotion during lunch, and the stress caused by multiple tests on designated testing days. The Policy Committee provided an overview of approximately 13 recently reviewed and updated policies centered on board governance and local requirements. The consent agenda included approval for 16 student trips and activities, such as the Italian club's trip to Italy, various ski club trips, robotics competitions, AP computer science programming competition, and biology trips to the DNA learning center. The Special Education Department presented an overview of their programs, mandates, classification rates (16% of the population), and the process for developing IEPs based on academic achievement, social development, physical development, and management needs, emphasizing the goal of educating students within the least restrictive environment.

The work session featured several key presentations focusing on the arts and educational frameworks within the district. Presentations included a showcase by Eastchester Middle School Players Club regarding their production of Newsies Junior, highlighting mentorship between middle and high school students. The Jazzco dance club also performed, followed by a presentation on the commitment and work ethic recognized through the Heart of a Giant Award given to student Joseph Kari. A significant portion of the agenda involved a presentation on curriculum and technology improvements, centered around the four-pillar vision: student experience, faculty experience (space and reimagining learning environments), wellness (including partnerships), and community engagement to foster civic-minded citizens. The board also heard details about the pilot year of the Destination Imagination framework, focused on innovative thought and problem-solving, which is set to be renamed Destination East next year.