Mark Leach

The committee discussed the 2026-2027 draft budget and its allocations for special education, facilities improvement advocacy, and the need for new leadership. Updates were provided regarding cell phone policies, family support initiatives, and upcoming regional educational programs. A detailed presentation on the School Resource Officer program covered crisis management, training protocols, and incident response. The committee reviewed the redesigned Family Life Education curriculum for 9th-grade students and examined the upcoming annual special education plan, including proposed staffing increases and a forthcoming program review. Public comments raised concerns regarding staffing shortages and resource equity at Crozet Elementary.

The meeting included performances by the Albemarle High School string quartet and a spotlight on education highlighting students achieving success in music and art, including regional and state-level recognition. The Superintendent presented updates on hands-on science activities at Journey Middle School involving watershed protection, and the Impact Studio program at Albemarle High School where students engaged in complex research projects on modern world issues. A significant portion of the session was dedicated to discussing the evolution of instructional practices, specifically moving away from leveled reading groups in elementary schools and implementing standards-based learning with iterative feedback, as demonstrated by early literacy examples.

The board meeting focused on celebrating graduation season and recognizing retiring staff members. Key agenda items included honoring student school board representatives from several schools for their service and contributions during the 2025-2026 academic year. The representatives were recognized for their leadership, advocacy, and dedication to elevating student voices across the division.

This document outlines a strategic plan titled "Learning for All" with a vision to develop engaged, lifelong learners who are contributors and leaders in a dynamic and diverse society. Its mission is to eliminate educational disparities by race, class, gender, and special capacities through high-quality teaching, learning, and strong relationships with families and communities. The plan is guided by values of Equity, Excellence, Family and Community, and Wellness, and focuses on three main goals: Thriving Students, Affirming and Empowering Communities, and Equitable, Transformative Resources. Additionally, the document details the 2026-2027 Special Education Annual Plan, which specifies how special education services will be provided and federal/state funds allocated across key components including the Regional Jail Agreement, Part B Set Aside Funds, CCEIS, and Federal Grant Funds.

This strategic plan, titled 'Learning for All,' envisions learners as engaged, lifelong contributors and leaders, and aims to eliminate educational disparities through high-quality teaching and strong family and community relationships. Guided by values of Equity, Excellence, Family and Community, and Wellness, the plan focuses on three key goals: Thriving Students, Affirming and Empowering Communities (which includes a comprehensive focus on school safety and security measures), and Equitable, Transformative Resources.