Rachel Berkebile

The board meeting included a presentation on survey results, which gathered feedback from families and staff regarding preferred learning models. The results showed varying levels of satisfaction with the current hybrid model and interest in returning to full-time face-to-face instruction. Concerns were raised about technology difficulties, inconsistent work completion, and challenges in maintaining social distancing during guided reading. Benefits of the hybrid model were also noted, such as smaller class sizes, deeper connections with students, and more easily monitored student progress. Principals presented academic information and updates related to the hybrid schedule.

The strategic plan for the South Western School District focuses on providing a continuously improving educational environment through collaboration with family and community. It emphasizes empowering students to create their future, ensuring equitable access to rigorous learning, and prioritizing college, career, and life readiness with a focus on mental health and social-emotional learning. Key strategies include implementing standards-aligned systems, data-informed decision-making, increasing rigor in instruction, providing authentic experiential learning, and supporting student mental wellness.

The document presents a discussion on redistricting, focusing on average class sizes across different elementary schools (Manheim, Baresville, Park Hills, and West Manheim). It analyzes current and projected class sizes with and without redistricting, considering various scenarios including adding classrooms to West Manheim Elementary. Cost implications of different options, including teacher and paraprofessional salaries, are also detailed. Population changes across the school district from 2019-2023 are included for context.

The South Western School District's comprehensive plan involves a three-phase process to develop and implement new goals and action steps. Phase one focuses on forming a steering committee and reviewing the district's mission, vision, and values. Phase two includes community participation in a needs assessment survey, root cause analysis, and the development of draft goals and action steps. Phase three involves sub-committee meetings to review drafts, public presentations and reviews, and final approvals. The plan aims to address identified needs through a collaborative process involving stakeholders and the community.

The South Western School District's comprehensive plan focuses on enhancing organizational systems, leadership effectiveness, and communication to meet students' academic, social, emotional, and behavioral needs. Key priorities include strengthening multi-tiered intervention systems, improving literacy and numeracy across all subgroups, and aligning curriculum, instruction, and assessment. The plan emphasizes professional development, data-driven decision-making, and community involvement to foster a supportive learning environment.