Traci L. Battest

The strategic plan for Duval County Public School Board focuses on student achievement, safety, teacher development, operational efficiency, communication, and community collaborations. Key priorities include increasing college and career readiness, providing individualized student supports, fostering a safe learning environment, recruiting and retaining excellent teachers, improving operational efficiency, strengthening communication, and enhancing community partnerships. The plan aims to equip students with the skills and opportunities needed for success while ensuring a supportive and inclusive environment.

The Duval County School Board is considering authorizing the use of motor vehicles, other than school buses, for transporting physically handicapped or isolated students through written agreements with commercial providers, in accordance with Florida Statute 1006.22 and School Board Policy 8.36. This initiative aims to improve the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of student transportation, particularly for programs like the McKinney-Vento Education for Homeless Children and Youth Program, Every Student Succeeds Act (Foster Care), and Exceptional Education, by addressing low bus occupancy levels. The expected outcome is better service at a lower cost for targeted students, with potential cost avoidance of $54K for the remainder of the year and $196K for a full school year.

The strategic plan is centered around ensuring every student is prepared for success in college, career, and life through educational excellence in every school and classroom. It focuses on developing great educators and leaders by providing necessary tools and resources, recruiting diverse staff, and offering ongoing professional learning. The plan also aims to engage parents, caregivers, and the community by fostering a collaborative culture, creating welcoming environments, and expanding partnerships. Additionally, it prioritizes the effective and equitable use of resources, including transparent funding, equitable distribution of programs, and deployment of technology. The plan is also focused on developing the whole child by aligning academic, health, and social-emotional services, addressing diverse student needs, and promoting positive behavior and safe environments.