Jessica Blitzer

The virtual meeting commenced with a call to order, followed by an immediate move into Executive Session. The purpose of the Executive Session was to consider the adoption of a Hearing Decision originating from the Hartford Board of Education dated January 22, 2026. Following this deliberation, the Impartial Hearing Officer for the West Hartford Board of Education adopted the Hartford Board of Education's decision. The meeting then returned to Public Session and was subsequently adjourned shortly thereafter.

Key discussions during the meeting included public communications regarding the social-emotional learning curriculum, experiences with the Guidance Department, student experiences at Hall High School, and opposition to block scheduling. Student representatives provided reports on various school activities and achievements, including SAT Academy, community events, and mock trial advancement. The Acting Chairperson delivered a statement for Black History Month. The Board reviewed and accepted as a First Reading several revised policies and bylaws concerning Non-Discrimination, Family and Medical Leave, and duties for Board officers. The Superintendent's report highlighted Black History Month, Chinese New Year, and the success of Welcome to Kindergarten night, noting the recognition of the West Hartford Youth Leadership Academy and an Educator of the Year award recipient, as well as a positive draft accreditation report for Conard High School. A presentation detailed the district's engagement with Restorative Practices. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to a report and presentation concerning a proposed transition to block scheduling at the high school, outlining the rationale, timeline, and potential benefits. The Board also authorized the approval of the minutes from the January 20, 2026 meeting.

Key discussions included public communications regarding the Special Education Parent Teacher Organization (SEPTO) support. Reports from student representatives highlighted midterm exams, SAT Academy, MLK celebration participation, and various extracurricular activities. The Board unanimously adopted the Capital Improvement Plan for 2026-27. The Superintendent provided an operational update noting a temporary closure at Webster Hill Elementary due to norovirus, upcoming state grants, and protocols for hate-based language. Curriculum updates included a new EMT course and AP Honor Roll recognition. A presentation covered Special Education services, including IEPs and specialized programs like the STRIVE Program. The Semiannual Restorative Practices Response Report detailed data on challenging behaviors. The Board also unanimously approved the Financial Report for the period ending November 30, 2025.

The Policy Subcommittee meeting included an overview of its function: reviewing policies before they advance to the full Board for approval, and noting that agenda items cannot be added during the meeting due to FOI requirements. Key policy discussions included Policy 8144 (Financial Examiners), where it was decided that a member would draft a revised policy based on suggestions regarding strengthening the financial review process. Several Non-Discrimination policies (1000, 4010, 5000) were reviewed, with substantive changes limited to adding sexual assault and human trafficking to 'Protected Classes' and updating contact information; a request was made to retain specific terms within Policy 1000. Other policies discussed and slated for the full Board's first reading included updates to Policy 4100 (Family and Medical Leave) for statutory compliance, and revisions to policies detailing the official duties of the Chairperson (8141), Vice Chairperson (8142), and Secretary (8443).

The Policy Subcommittee addressed several items under unfinished and new business. Unfinished business included a draft revision of Policy 8144---Financial Examiners, where further changes were suggested and will be incorporated before the full Board review. The subcommittee also reviewed revisions to Policies 1000 (Community), 4010 (Personnel), and 5000 (Students)---Non-Discrimination, which will advance to the full Board for a second reading. Under new business, Policy 3140---Board Budget Procedures and Line Item Transfers was discussed, noting that the Board must authorize expenditures from unexpended funds. Policy 5680---Child Sexual Abuse and Assault Response and Reporting Procedures was reviewed for minor housekeeping edits, including updating terminology and names. Policies 3140 and 5680 will advance for a first reading to the full Board.