Jodi Schwan

The strategic plan outlines how the Groton Area School District will utilize American Rescue Plan (ARP) ESSER funds to address the impacts of COVID-19. Key priorities include implementing prevention and mitigation strategies, addressing academic learning loss through evidence-based interventions and extended learning opportunities, and supporting the academic, social, emotional, and mental health needs of all students, particularly those disproportionately affected. The plan also details investments in facility renovations, such as HVAC improvements, and strategies for reengaging at-risk students, aiming for sustained benefits and long-term positive impact on the district.

The meeting included program overview presentations from the music department and the health and PE department. The board conducted its second reading of recommended policy changes related to relations with parents, expense reimbursements, student transportation services, and delinquent student fees. Updates were provided on the comprehensive property task force, district enrollment, and new ParaPro Praxis Exam. The board also discussed technology issues, a year-in-review overview of 2025, reassignment of a staff member, and approved the Request for Proposal (RFP) for Facilities Master Planning.

The meeting included discussions and actions on various financial matters, including approval of district bills, financial reports, agency accounts, and investments. The board also reviewed and approved policy changes for the Elementary Student Handbook and curriculum reviews for English Language Arts, science, and social studies. Personnel matters included approving the resignation/retirement of a food service team member, summer employment agreements for various educational programs, and a lane change for a staff member. The board also cast SDHSAA ballots, approved a list of surplus items for disposal, and approved an audit for the fiscal year 2025.

The meeting included presentations on Destination Imagination, health science classes, FACS classes, and Agriculture classes. The Board had a second reading of the recommended policy changes: GDBE Support Staff Vacations and Holidays and GCBE Professional Staff Vacations and Holidays. The administrative reports covered Title VI nondiscrimination certification requirements, CSTAG training, Comprehensive Needs Assessment team meeting, and upcoming training opportunities for administrators and board members. The first reading was conducted for the recommended policy changes: Elementary Student Handbook. The board approved hiring a Maintenance Team Member and a Instrumental Music Teacher, a change from BS+15 to MS, and resignations of the Head Boys Basketball Coach and JH Volleyball Coach. They also approved off-staff coaching agreements and Employment Agreements for Auxiliary Administrative Staff, and the Administrative Negotiated Agreement and signed Administrative Contracts.

The board discussed administrative reports, including school improvement progress, elementary track and field day, spring concert, state assessment dates, and Kindergarten roundup. The future of the Show Choir program was discussed, with a proposal to try a school musical instead. The board also considered membership in the SDHSAA, Protective Trust Agreements, and a District Membership Agreement for North Central Special Education Cooperative. A resignation from a Maintenance Team Member was approved. Policy changes regarding staff vacations and holidays were reviewed. The 2025-2026 Negotiated Agreements for the Groton Teachers Association and Groton Auxiliary Staff Association were approved, along with amended contract lengths. A sabbatical leave request was approved, and teacher contracts and auxiliary staff work agreements were issued. A new 1st Grade Teacher was hired, and amendments to the school calendar were approved. The board went into an executive session for negotiations, personnel issues, and superintendent evaluation.