Julie M. Riley

The School Committee hosted a public interview with a superintendent finalist. The discussion focused on the candidate's professional background, their leadership approach, and their vision for the district. Topics included strategies for fostering shared leadership and educator morale, handling special education services and communication with families, and managing the intentional use of technology in the classroom to balance digital platforms with traditional hands-on learning experiences.

This document outlines the Andover Public Schools' Vision of a Graduate, a comprehensive framework developed since 2022 through extensive community engagement. The vision focuses on cultivating key skills, attitudes, and dispositions in students, specifically communication, collaboration, adaptability, critical thinking, and self and other awareness. The overarching goal is to ensure every student feels seen, valued, and supported, fostering inclusivity, belonging, and a lifelong passion for learning, ultimately preparing them to reach their full potential and thrive in an interconnected world.

The School Committee meeting covered multiple topics including an update on the middle school science curriculum, a review of the Open Meeting Law, a discussion on private school tuition prepayment, and an overview of district financials. The committee reviewed and approved various grants and donations to the district. Discussions also included the superintendent search progress, setting the last day of school for the academic year, and the committee's decision not to participate in the Massachusetts School Choice Program for the upcoming year.

This Strategic Plan serves as a roadmap for continuous improvement across district operations, emphasizing excellence in management and governance. Key strategic directions include providing consistency in curriculum and instruction, improving student supports, upgrading data systems, enhancing family and community connections, and utilizing effective resource management and operational systems.

The District Curriculum Accommodation Plan (DCAP) outlines instructional supports and interventions designed to assist students experiencing difficulties in mastering content areas. The plan aims to provide differentiated learning experiences and accommodations for diverse learners across all levels, from preschool through high school, addressing academic progress as well as social and behavioral issues. Key focus areas for accommodations include Universal strategies, Academic Skills (General, Reading, Writing, Mathematics), Behavioral/Social/Emotional skills, Communication, and Motor Skills. The DCAP emphasizes teacher collaboration, parental involvement, and the principal's role in ensuring efforts to meet student needs within regular education programs.