Jodi Melissa Slaughter

The board meeting focused on an update regarding chronic absenteeism and dropout rates for the fourth quarter. The discussion highlighted a notable reduction in chronic absenteeism and a decrease in the division's dropout rate. The board examined the factors contributing to these rates, including unexcused absences and suspensions, and explored strategies for student engagement, such as attendance recovery efforts. The meeting also addressed policy considerations related to out-of-district transfers and the role of parent engagement specialists in improving student attendance.

The work session focused on reviewing the spring intermission performance data for first and second-grade students, specifically monitoring the Virginia Language and Literacy Screener System. Key discussions included an analysis of student literacy growth, the effectiveness of instructional supports and interventions, and the strategic allocation of tutors to address achievement gaps among specific student subgroups, including English language learners and students with disabilities. Additionally, the board reviewed the preliminary Title One application for the upcoming school year, outlining federal grant fund usage to support academic standards, early intervention, and equitable services across the district.

The Norfolk Public Schools Division Literacy Plan aims to cultivate college and career-ready learners through strategic, authentic, and engaging literacy instruction. Key pillars include promoting an equitable and systematic literacy framework, fostering rigorous curricula with explicit, data-driven instruction, and utilizing authentic, culturally relevant materials to challenge and motivate students. The plan also focuses on selecting high-quality instructional materials, providing evidence-based reading research training, implementing robust systems for monitoring student assessment and division-level progress, and fostering strong partnerships with parents, caregivers, and the community to support literacy development.

This Strategic Plan for Norfolk Public Schools outlines a vision for continuous improvement, focusing on building a stronger foundation to meet individual student needs and enhance instructional practices. The plan is structured around five key pillars: Student Excellence (fostering authentic and culturally relevant learning experiences), Workforce (attracting, developing, and retaining a highly effective team), Resources (ensuring equitable allocation), Community (strengthening partnerships), and Safety & Climate (cultivating a safe, caring, and welcoming environment). The overarching goal is to create a system that nurtures a positive culture and climate, engages families and the community, and develops students as creative, collaborative, civic-minded, critical thinkers.

The meeting focused on the progress of phase one of the school consolidation and redistricting plan. Discussions included the closure of specific elementary schools and the transition of students to receiving schools. Principals from the affected and receiving schools provided details on outreach plans, family engagement strategies, student support initiatives, and community events designed to facilitate a smooth transition.