Southington Public Schools

The board meeting included a celebration of excellence recognizing a middle school principal and the high school color guard for their achievements. Discussion topics covered district reports from student representatives, updates on staff development, and a review of the NEASC accreditation report. The board engaged in committee reports regarding curriculum, instruction, and finance, including the approval of custodial service extensions and an award for a kitchen equipment RFP. Additionally, the board approved several policies, reviewed new curriculum proposals, and received a presentation regarding senior dismissal policies and procedures. The meeting also addressed a student expulsion matter and received public comment regarding board communication and community presence.

The Board of Education meeting included an executive session regarding unaffiliated compensation and student matters. Recognitions were presented for the American Legion High School Oratorical Contest winner, Kid Governor candidates, and the Connecticut Fire Prevention Poster Program winners. Discussion topics covered student representative reports, a Wall of Honor application deadline, legislative lobbying efforts regarding education funding and special education reimbursements, and various committee reports including curriculum and finance matters. Financial approvals included YMCA program rates, district repair grant uses, and athletic training service renewals. The Board also addressed personnel reports, town government communications regarding a capital project referendum, board email practices, various policy revisions and new policies, and authorized submission of rooftop solar and roof replacement plans for state administrative review. Additionally, the Board took action on a student expulsion request and heard public comments concerning school project transparency and legal expenditures in special education.

The board meeting focused on a presentation and subsequent discussion regarding various budget reduction scenarios provided by the Superintendent of Schools. No formal action was taken during the meeting.

The board recognized retiring staff members for their years of service and heard a student presentation requesting a half-day of school on Halloween. The agenda included reports on the 2017-2018 School Resource Officer activities, data presentations on SAT, AP, and college acceptance statistics for the Class of 2018, and a discussion on the Superintendent's goals. Administrative reports addressed an electricity contract change, the Dental Society of Greater Southington's special education training collaboration, and updates on school safety and security, including lockdown drills and camera projects.

The Board of Education meeting included an executive session for student and personnel matters. Key highlights featured a Celebration of Excellence for the Southington High School Lady Knights Softball Team. Appointments were finalized for the positions of Principal and Assistant Principal at J. A. DePaolo Middle School, as well as an Assistant Principal at Southington High School. Public communications focused on the renaming of a school facility to honor Zaya A. Oshana. The Board received reports regarding the STELLAR graduation ceremony, the Extended School Year program, and an update on the Southington High School roof project bids. Additional staffing requests for a science teacher were approved, as well as the disposal of obsolete textbooks and an out-of-state field trip for the cross country team. Finally, the Board reached a decision to rename Plantsville School in honor of Zaya A. Oshana and passed a motion to formally name South End Elementary School.