Nicole McDowell

Clayton County Public Schools' strategic direction aims to prepare all graduates for college, post-secondary training, and/or career opportunities in a global society, empowering them with skills in literacy, creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration. The plan focuses on increasing academic achievement, recruiting and retaining highly qualified staff, fostering an equitable and safe environment, providing high-quality support services, establishing equity metrics, and promoting access to arts and cultural experiences within the community.

The board convened for a work session which included an executive session to discuss personnel, land, and legal matters. Key updates provided to the board included a budget report for the upcoming school year, a 90-day plan, and information regarding a literacy grant. Business services reports, including financial, budget amendment, SPLOST revenue, and purchasing reports, were presented. Additionally, the board reviewed capital improvement reports and human resources personnel changes. Board policy series I and policy regulation JD-R (1) were also discussed.

The town hall meeting focused on the reopening plan for Fountain Elementary School, covering transportation, arrival safety protocols, and health clinic procedures. Key topics included requirements for wearing masks and social distancing, temperature checks, the implementation of hand-washing and sanitization stations, and specific guidelines for handling COVID-19 symptoms. Additionally, the presentation detailed classroom safety protocols, such as assigned seating, the use of desk shields, and individual resource usage, as well as meal service arrangements.

The town hall focused on the Georgia Milestone Assessment System. Key topics included an overview of the testing schedule for third, fourth, and fifth grade students, testing requirements for different subjects, and the format of the computer-based assessments. Strategies were shared to help students prepare, including reading, practicing math, and using online resources provided by the state department of education. The meeting also addressed procedures for virtual learners and the importance of attendance during the assessment period.

The board conducted an executive session to discuss personnel, land, and legal matters. During the public portion of the meeting, the board held student recognitions and received announcements from students at Elite Scholars Academy. The board approved a consent agenda covering budget amendments, SPLOST revenue and construction reports, a purchasing report, a capital purchasing report, and personnel changes. A separate financial report was also reviewed and approved.