June Henkelman

The board meeting focused on the future planning process facilitated by RSP & Associates. Key discussion topics included the CTE student experience continuum and programming elements, a review of student survey results concerning college and career readiness, and the development of a vision statement for graduates. Additionally, the committee evaluated potential district investments, specifically focusing on facility needs such as a grounds building, natatorium, tennis court expansion, baseball/softball complex, and wrestling space. The meeting also summarized feedback from community input sessions regarding facility priorities and career-connected learning.

The board meeting featured a presentation from the Derby Education Foundation regarding a new partnership with the Credit Union of America to sponsor district staff t-shirts and a student design contest. Operational and departmental reports included updates on facility strategy planning and student support data from the alternative learning department. The board discussed implementing a behavioral threat assessment software tool for school safety and proposed meal price increases for the upcoming school year. Final actions included approving a new online credit recovery platform, the sale of used staff MacBooks, and several updated board policies regarding executive sessions, graduation requirements, and school visitors.

This document presents a comprehensive enrollment analysis and projections for Derby Public Schools, serving as a critical input for its future planning process. It details past, current, and future enrollment trends, demographic shifts including birth rates and migration, and the impact of housing development patterns and regional economic projects. The analysis aims to inform long-range decisions regarding facility alignment, staffing adjustments, and academic strategies to manage projected student population changes, identify potential elementary school over-utilization challenges, and contribute to a cohesive long-term roadmap for the district.

The board meeting addressed several key operational and educational initiatives. Presentations included recognition for staff years of service, an enrollment growth report, and an overview of the Biotechnology Pathway program. Discussion topics covered the Leadership Service in Action course, implementation of the Pathwise Safe Driver 360 system, a Five-Year Capital Outlay Plan, and enrollment fee renewals. Formal actions included approval of elementary science and PreK-8 music curriculum resources, adoption of new social studies curriculum materials for the high school, authorization for the purchase of volleyball nets, and the implementation of updated educator evaluation forms.

This document outlines the Academic Focus Areas and key accomplishments for Derby Public Schools from 2017 to 2024. The strategic initiatives include significant curriculum development and adoption across various subjects (Science, Art, Music, Social Studies, PE, Health, FACS, ELA, Algebra, Geometry), implementation of data-driven assessment strategies, and expansion of educational pathways including vocational and online learning. Additionally, the plan emphasizes robust staff development through instructional coaches, literacy training, and professional learning communities, alongside enhanced student support programs such as AmeriCorps tutoring, early childhood expansion, increased counseling services, and district-wide social-emotional learning. Infrastructure improvements, supported by a bond, contributed to enhanced learning environments, safety, and ADA accessibility. The collective efforts aim to foster academic excellence, improve student outcomes, and ensure comprehensive support for all students within the district.