Laura D. Hicks

The board meeting featured reports on classroom activities and student achievements in track and field and various extracurricular clubs, including the Technology Student Association's national qualification. Discussion also covered personnel and contractual matters in executive session. The Director of Building and Grounds provided updates on ongoing infrastructure projects, including sprinkler system repairs and grant applications for specific school areas. Additionally, public comments were received regarding a board censure document and concerns over professional conduct.

The board discussed the district's budget timeline, including upcoming deadlines for the proposed final budget and adoption. Key topics included a preliminary budget deficit, anticipated technology and security expenditures, and the impact of governor-proposed state adequacy funding. The board also reviewed significant increases in health insurance premiums due to higher utilization rates, staffing adjustments made to improve schedule efficiencies, and expenditure projections for payroll, charter tuition, transportation, and debt service.

This Professional Development Plan, required under Act 48, outlines the school entity's strategy for continuing professional education from 2024 to 2027. It details requirements for professional development activities, including graduate-level coursework, in-service training, curriculum development, and conference attendance. Key focus areas include Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS), Structured Literacy, Differentiated Instruction, LETRS, and Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). The plan aims to enhance educators' content knowledge, teaching skills, assessment capabilities, and data analysis to improve language and literacy acquisition for all students, close achievement gaps, and effectively serve diverse learners in inclusive settings.

This document outlines the Mifflin County School District's Educator Induction Plan, a two-year program designed for new teachers, long-term substitutes, and educational specialists. Commencing in the 2024-2025 school year, the plan focuses on providing comprehensive support through mentor relationships, training on observation and evaluation models, and a robust needs assessment. Key areas of mentorship include effective learning theories, classroom management, record-keeping, student evaluation, parental relationships, and district policies, aiming to facilitate social integration, professional growth, and ultimately, the successful transition and performance of new staff members.

This document outlines the Mifflin County School District's approach to fulfilling Chapter 4 of the Pennsylvania School Code, focusing on rigorous academic standards and assessments. It details the alignment of curriculum and assessment across all grade bands and subjects, ensuring a written curriculum framework. The plan also addresses educator effectiveness under Act 13, identifying strengths and areas for improvement in teaching practices, and setting goals for instructional enhancement and student learning outcomes. The overarching purpose is to improve student achievement and provide accountability for school performance.