Pat Caudo

This document outlines the strategic goals for the West Windsor-Plainsboro Regional School District, building upon a tradition of excellence to empower all learners for a diverse and changing world. Key goals include integrating tools to challenge and enable students to realize their full potential, empowering learners to be active community members and contribute to a peaceful and just world, maintaining a supportive culture for the health and well-being of the Whole Child, and cultivating a diverse and inclusive community where all members are valued and respected.

The meeting commenced with acknowledgments and recognition of graduating student representatives for their service over the past two years, including detailed accolades for student leaders from High School North and High School South. The primary focus of the meeting then shifted to an extensive discussion led by the Superintendent regarding the complex planning for the Fall 2020 school reentry, amidst rising national and state COVID-19 case data. Key considerations involved health and safety protocols, including social distancing requirements, capacity limitations based on gubernatorial directives (25% or 50 individuals, whichever is smaller for indoor facilities), and the necessary budget implications, particularly concerning personal protective equipment (PPE) which was noted to require substantial local funding. The superintendent emphasized the need for flexibility in instructional delivery, preparing for virtual, hybrid, or in-person models, while prioritizing student and staff safety, social-emotional learning, and necessary services for special education students. Technology readiness was noted as a strength, with the district achieving 100% connectivity for devices and internet access for responding families.

The meeting commenced with student representative reports from both West Windsor Plainsboro High School North and High School South. The reports covered events such as student council cheering, Chromebook distribution, club fairs, homecoming preparations, and early season sports successes. Following the student reports, a presentation was given regarding referendum and facility projects, including updates on renovation work at Maurice Hawk Elementary School and the Town Center project, noting the replacement of a subcontractor due to masonry issues at Hawk. Additionally, updates were provided on the emergency generator project, with expected lead times affecting completion schedules. Future bidding and construction timelines for projects at Thomas Grover Middle School and Community Middle School were detailed. Other referendum projects, such as additions and renovations at High School South, High School North (including a culinary lab and fitness room), and Wyckoff Elementary School (including HVAC improvements), were reviewed. Finally, the curriculum committee presented updates on work completed over the summer, focusing on aligning curriculum documents with strategic goals, unpacking state standards, and ensuring quality and compliance in math documents, including updates for K-5, middle school, and high school levels, as well as the initiation of a five-year cycle for Special Education curricula.

The board meeting primarily focused on student performance data from the New Jersey Graduation Proficiency Assessment (NJ GPA) and the New Jersey Student Learning Assessment (NJSLA). Discussions covered achievement levels, demographic breakdowns, and comparisons to state performance. The board also addressed programmatic changes in mathematics and literacy, including curriculum revisions and professional development for teachers. The implementation of Orton Gillingham training for teachers was also discussed.

The board meeting included discussions and reports from various committees, including administration and facilities, curriculum and instruction, and finance. Key topics included policy reviews, safety and security updates, referendum projects, equity planning, curriculum updates, textbook adoptions, technology agreements, assessment programs, disposal of obsolete items, professional development opportunities, contract renewals, and budget-related matters. The board also addressed specific items such as the map testing program, food services, and energy savings initiatives.