Jennifer Kottmann

The board discussed a data breach involving the Canvas platform and its potential impact on district staff and families. The superintendent announced the hiring of a new director for the Parkway Rockwood Community Education Program. Recognition was given to staff and teachers for the Rose Awards, teacher appreciation week, and the signing event for future educators. Several schools were honored as National Schools of Character. Additionally, the meeting included updates on upcoming high school graduation ceremonies, legislative advocacy efforts, the new community connectors initiative, and the safe accommodation of students during severe weather by the Mascoutah School District.

The Rockwood School District is framing a comprehensive School Improvement Plan to serve as a strategic blueprint and North Star for the next five years. This plan focuses on codifying the district's direction and methodology for achievement. Key priorities include enhancing instructional focus, particularly through managing classroom resources like smartphones to maximize learning time, and fostering an environment of dignity and belonging where every student and staff member feels valued, heard, seen, and appropriately challenged. The overarching goal is continuous improvement to effectively prepare all students for their future endeavors, whether in the military, workforce, or higher education, by ensuring they are supported through all challenges.

The committee convened to review a challenge against the book 'Lawn Boy' by Jonathon Evison. Discussion topics included the book's language, depiction of alcohol and sexual encounters, and its overall educational value. The committee weighed these concerns against professional reviews and the potential benefits of the book for student perspective and motivation. The final decision was to retain the book in the school library without restriction, noting that parents retain the ability to restrict their own children's access to specific titles.

The board hosted a candidates forum where participants discussed the importance of student achievement, fiscal responsibility, school safety, and the necessity for increased transparency and open bidding processes for construction contracts. Candidates also addressed audit findings and explored strategies to restore community confidence in the board's operations.

The Superintendent hosted a town hall meeting to introduce himself and address questions from the community. Discussions focused on the district's financial state, the importance of efficient budget management, and the potential for an external evaluation of administrative staffing. Additionally, the conversation touched upon the impact of class sizes on student performance and the administration's commitment to prioritizing fiscal responsibility while fostering effective teacher-student relationships.