Geary County Unified School District 475

The Strategic Foreign Language Expansion Program (SFLEP) is a collaborative initiative designed to enhance foreign language education for students in military-connected schools. The program's core focus areas include developing language proficiency and promoting cultural awareness among students, with the intended outcome of broadening their understanding of various global regions.

The work session of the Board of Education included discussions on standards-referenced grading, focusing on providing accurate indicators of mastery of learning targets and aligning assessments with curriculum and instruction. The discussions covered the importance of consistent and transparent communication of learning targets, the development of proficiency scales, and the separation of academic performance from behavior in reporting. The goal is to ensure grades reflect what students know and can do, and to provide valuable feedback to students and parents regarding academic strengths and weaknesses.

The meeting included discussions about the start of the new year in schools, with positive feedback on the spirit and work being done in the district. An executive session was held to discuss non-elected personnel matters. The board also discussed and approved the agreement with a certified employee. The election of the 2021 board president and vice president took place. The board also discussed and approved the resolution to establish board meeting dates for 2021. Additionally, the consent agenda was approved, covering various items such as the treasurer's report, budget report, student activity accounts, bills, personnel report, and requests for new positions and grants.

The board discussed the implementation of a universal screener, specifically the FastBridge Assessment program, to identify students' needs in reading, math, and social-emotional learning. The goal is to proactively address skill deficits and provide consistent support across the district. The FastBridge program includes computer adaptive tests, curriculum-based measures, and a social-emotional component. The board also discussed the costs associated with the program, including subscriptions and on-site training, and how it would replace some existing assessment tools.

The meeting included district recognition for a student who participated in a statewide poster contest for Arbor Day. Public comments were made regarding the removal of the business academy, with speakers expressing concerns about the impact on students' financial preparations and the value of the business teachers. There was also discussion about reinstating Taz Mat, a leadership group, and the importance of business pathway classes for preparing students for real-world skills and college.