Karina Villalona

The board convened to discuss non-represented staff salaries and a memorandum of agreement regarding the CSEA custodial unit. After moving into an executive session to review contractual and performance-related items, the board returned to open session to formally approve the salary structures for non-represented staff and the custodial unit agreement.

The board meeting focused on celebrating retiring educators, recognizing their years of service, and contributions to the school district and community. Additionally, the meeting included the recognition of a teacher receiving tenure for their commitment and contributions to the classroom and the Innovation Learning Commons.

The board meeting included a presentation on grants provided by the HEF organization, covering various initiatives at the Hillside and high school levels, such as the imagination playground, theater and lighting upgrades, robotics club equipment, and a commemorative project honoring the Clarks. Additionally, the meeting featured a presentation on the three-year instructional technology strategic plan, which focuses on fostering a professional learning culture, exploring the role of artificial intelligence, and strengthening the connection between home and school regarding device usage.

The meeting featured presentations from the school's robotics team, the Bionic Buzzers, regarding their performance, robot design, outreach efforts, and financial management for the 2025-2026 season. The team also demonstrated their robot's capabilities. Additionally, the meeting included a presentation on the high school's science research program, which is transitioning to a three-year structure in partnership with SUNY Albany, allowing students to earn college credits.

This strategic framework, known as the Portrait of a Hastings Learner (POHL), outlines a comprehensive approach to student development tied to the service of all students. It includes the Hastings Commitment to inspire exploration, unleash enthusiasm, invite unconventional thinking, and cultivate confidence and compassion. The framework identifies six key attributes for learners: Bold, Collaborative, Empathetic, Empowered, Inquisitive, and Inventive. It establishes three main goals: nurturing diverse thinkers for a just and compassionate society, fostering authentic learning experiences, and honoring individuality while respecting shared humanity. These goals are supported by action steps focused on enhancing authentic learning, providing social-emotional learning support, and developing a community charter for behavioral expectations.