Matthew Arens

The Norfolk Public Schools' vision is to be a high-performing school that offers excellent educational opportunities for every student, serving as a source of pride and value for the community. Its mission is to prepare all students to pursue their future goals. The document outlines five strategic objectives: exceeding state averages in student assessments, implementing a staff retention and recruitment plan, developing a comprehensive communication plan, enhancing safety plans (physical and technological), and establishing integrated academic, mental health, and behavioral support systems for students.

This document outlines the strategic planning goals for Norfolk Public Schools, guided by its mission to prepare all students for their future and its vision to be a top-performing school that is a source of pride and an asset to the community. Key strategic goals include exceeding state averages in student achievement assessments, implementing comprehensive staff retention and recruitment plans, developing robust communication strategies to engage stakeholders, enhancing safety plans and procedures, and establishing district-wide support systems for student behavior, mental health, and academics.

The meeting commenced with the call to order and roll call, confirming a quorum. A motion to excuse a member failed due to policy non-compliance regarding short notice. The main segment featured presentations from Grant Elementary staff focusing on empowering students to take ownership of their learning through self-assessment, goal setting, and reflection. Specific examples included student-led conferences, the use of fluency folders for reading practice, peer assessment and editing in writing, and teacher-led writing conferences that involve self-assessment and grading. Fourth-grade teachers highlighted goal setting via 'parking lot meetings' covering academic, self-management, and leadership goals, and how these metacognitive skills positively influence performance in tests and behavior. Board members provided commentary, affirming the importance of these skills for both academics and life.

The meeting was called to order, establishing a quorum with five of six members present, and a motion to excuse one member carried. The agenda included a presentation and special recognition focusing on students from the Northfor Junior High School's communications production class, who detailed their work on JH News, social media, yearbook creation (themed around Roblox), and the end-of-year slideshow. The board members discussed the students' development of skills like communication and time management. Subsequently, the board presented an Award for Excellence to Tracy Shoan, a school psychologist, recognizing her dedication, expertise, and positive demeanor. Building visits were also reported, covering observations at Washington Elementary School, participation in a Solution Tree Professional Development on PLC collaboration and data conversations, and a visit to Westside Elementary School, noting positive aspects like curriculum implementation, teacher retention strategies, cafeteria operations, and the music program.

The meeting included a presentation by Lunchtime Solutions, discussing their services and a new newsletter. They also gather feedback from students twice a year to improve their menu. The board approved the consent agenda and discussed the next regular meeting. The board moved into a closed session to discuss negotiations.