Neil Risher

This document outlines the Student Progression Plan for Hillsborough County Public Schools, detailing policies and procedures to prepare students for life as successful and responsible citizens. It establishes standards for English language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies mastery, covering academic interventions, assessments, promotion requirements across elementary, middle, and high school grades, and various acceleration options. The plan also includes guidelines for specialized programs such as English Language Learners, Exceptional Student Education, virtual instruction, home education, Career and Technical Education, and adult education.

The meeting primarily involved the recognition of various staff and educational entities for their achievements. A significant portion was dedicated to recognizing Silver Winners from numerous elementary schools, including Alafia, Bailey Elementary School, Bay Crest Elementary, and others, for achieving Silver Status in the Healthy School Award program. The meeting also recognized National School Nurse Day (May 12, 2021), with commentary emphasizing the vital role nurses played during the COVID-19 pandemic, including case management and adherence to CDC guidelines. Furthermore, the 2020-2021 Substitute Teacher of the Year, Frank George, was recognized for his seven years of service with Kelly Education, following an introduction by personnel services staff.

The workshop focused on Book and Policy Procedures, providing an overview of the material selection, reading, and objection processes guided by current Florida law. Key discussion points included the requirements introduced by HB 1467 concerning selection by certified media specialists, and changes mandated by HB 1069 regarding the criteria for book objections (including stipulations against pornographic content or depiction of sexual conduct). The presentation detailed the multi-level objection process, from initial conversation at the school site up through potential appeal to the School Board and further to the Commissioner of Education. Updates on the development of the official Objection Form by the Department of Education were provided. Furthermore, compliance requirements stemming from HB 1069, such as publishing searchable lists of accessible materials on elementary school websites and providing a process for parents to limit student access, were reviewed, noting the implementation through the purchase of the Beanstack platform.

The workshop focused on exploring the possibility of moving to a self-funded health insurance program starting in 2026. The discussion involved comparing self-funded versus fully insured health plans, covering key differences such as financial liability, claims processing, cash flow, benefit flexibility (notably avoiding state mandates and allowing health management programs), state tax assessments (which are avoided in self-funded plans), and plan fiduciary responsibility. Advantages of self-funding for large employers include better claims oversight, flexibility in management, and eliminating carrier profit margins. Disadvantages involve increased administrative complexity and the employer retaining liability for claims exceeding budgeted amounts. The presentation also defined key terms, discussed stop-loss insurance mechanisms for high-cost claims, and noted that several large Florida school districts are currently self-funded.

The workshop focused on the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) within the school district. Discussions included the current K-12 AI landscape, the district's 'Go Slow to Go Fast' strategy, and the work of the Hillsborough AI Governance Team established in July 2024. Key discussion points covered the evolving guidance from the U.S. Department of Education, the role of the Florida Artificial Intelligence K-12 Task Force, and comparisons of state-level AI use strategies. The foundation for AI integration is built upon six guiding principles, emphasizing a human-centric belief, equitable access, ethical use, innovation, professional learning, and preparing students with future-ready skills. Feedback was gathered from students via a survey, indicating excitement for AI's potential but caution regarding the need for human connection and ethical use. The presentation detailed three vetted tools already in use by staff: Microsoft Copilot, Khanmigo, and Magic School, with an emphasis that Copilot is the preferred Large Language Model due to enterprise data protection.