Syracuse City School District

The special meeting focused primarily on the consideration and hearing regarding the removal of a Board Member for official misconduct. The hearing addressed charges that the member failed to adhere to the district's visitor policy and building security practices, and breached the District policy, Code of Ethics, and the Board members oath of office. Following due deliberation, the Board voted unanimously to find the member engaged in official misconduct and immediately removed them from the Board of Education.

The meeting included student and staff recognitions, such as Ed Curl being named Northeast Region National Federation of State High School Associations Coach of the Year, Takai Baker being nominated for the USA football hero of a giant award, and Devin Williams having his poem published in a book of poems. The SCSD Office of Family Engagement also recognized winners of the Hispanic Heritage Month photo story contest. The board proclaimed November 2025 as Native American Heritage Month. The board also discussed the creation of new positions and submission of grant proposals.

The Syracuse City School District Board of Education is considering awarding a Request for Proposal (RFP) for a Comprehensive Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS) Software Solution, Training, and Implementation Services. The district seeks a technological platform and professional learning to implement its MTSS-I framework. Six proposals were reviewed, and the RFP Committee recommended Branching Minds as the best firm to provide these services. The proposal includes an electronic platform, professional development and coaching, and ongoing analysis services. The legal review is underway, and the Board of Education will decide on awarding the RFP to Branching Minds for a three-year base period with two additional option years.

This School Comprehensive Education Plan for Syracuse STEM @ Blodgett outlines a strategic roadmap for the 2025-2026 school year. The plan is structured around four core commitments: enhancing critical thinking and reasoning skills through strategies like Accountable Talk and Claim, Evidence & Reasoning; improving numeracy and literacy by fostering a collaborative culture via Professional Learning Communities and utilizing graphic organizers for diverse learners; ensuring student belonging and daily attendance through staff-to-student check-ins; and aligning resources to support individual student needs via a Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) with an expanded Lion Card incentive system. The overarching goal is to significantly improve student outcomes, particularly for diverse learners, by addressing academic performance, chronic absenteeism, and fostering a stronger sense of belonging within the school community.

The meeting was held to honor Superintendent Anthony Q. Davis Senior, who is leaving his position. Speakers praised Davis for his dedication to the students and families of the Syracuse City School District, his leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic, and his commitment to equity and opportunity. Proclamations were read recognizing Davis's achievements and contributions to the community.