Mike Hart

This document outlines the Wayne County Schools' Parent and Family Engagement Policy for 2025-2026, mandated by the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA). The policy details the agency's commitment to enhancing student academic achievement through robust parent and family involvement. Key components include involving parents in the joint development and annual evaluation of the plan, providing necessary coordination and technical assistance to schools for effective engagement activities, integrating strategies with other relevant programs, assisting parents in understanding academic standards and monitoring student progress, offering materials and training, and educating staff on effective communication and partnership building with families.

This strategic plan outlines a roadmap for Wayne County Schools focusing on three primary goals: improving academic instruction and student achievement, implementing social and emotional support systems for students and employees, and developing instructional leadership across the district. Key initiatives include enhancing ELA and Math performance through cadres and data teams, providing professional development for educators, addressing chronic absenteeism through community partnerships and support teams, and fostering leadership through training programs and teacher leadership groups.

The meeting included recognitions of two schools nominated for the National Blue Ribbon award for their academic performance. Discussions covered the importance of supporting students through proactive expectations and interventions, the significance of kindness as a core value, and the need to protect children with compromised immune systems through immunization laws. The board also addressed issues related to rural counties, school closures, consolidations, and the school aid formula.