Memphis-Shelby County Schools

The committee discussed various operational updates including wireless hotspot contracts, the acquisition of student computer devices, and preventive maintenance service contracts for elevators, lifts, and chillers. Additional discussions covered air-quality project management, STREAM kits for the summer learning academy, and the Minority, Women-Owned and Small Business Enterprise program expenditures and goals.

The town hall meeting focused on fostering greater community engagement and transparency between the district representative and constituents. Key discussion topics included the ongoing efforts of the school board and commissioner to expand educational programs, specifically the transition of Holland Oaks Middle School into an innovative school. The meeting also emphasized the importance of active parental involvement in schools and student lives, while providing channels for communication between community members and their elected representatives to facilitate district progress.

The committee discussed sanitary item awareness, specifically addressing period poverty through resource distribution and the implementation of hygiene product dispensers in schools. The Office of Equity and Diversity presented feedback and strategies for a 2021-22 equity audit, focusing on grading accuracy, GPA improvement via graduation coaches, and monitoring end-of-course academic progress. Additionally, the committee reviewed COVID-19 health directives, specifically masking requirements in indoor public settings and schools.

The meeting focused on third-grade reading standards, retention policies, and available exceptions, such as for English language learners and students with individualized learning plans. Key discussion points included the TCAP testing schedule, the computer-based retake process, and risk notifications based on I-Ready benchmarks. Parents were instructed on how to access student progress information via PowerSchool and were encouraged to use I-Ready tools to support student learning at home.

The committee held a meeting to discuss a Head Start grant application and reviewed the next steps for upcoming project objectives.