East Haven educator advocates for duck care policy at school board meeting

The East Haven Board of Education meeting on June 24, 2025, highlighted significant advancements in educational programs and a commitment to student success amid budgetary challenges. The board announced the introduction of new courses in media journalism, business education, and manufacturing for the upcoming school year, alongside the relocation of the Ed Rising program to enhance career and technical education pathways. This move aims to allow students to earn college credits before graduating high school, coupled with scholarship opportunities.

In a robust discussion on instructional strategies, the board emphasized the importance of data-driven decision-making to improve educational outcomes. Plans were laid out to establish assessment frameworks aligned with grade-level standards, enhancing instructional coherence across schools. The focus will be on developing fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension, with professional learning opportunities designed to be job-embedded and responsive to teacher feedback.

The meeting also addressed concerns regarding the availability of student performance data. Board members expressed frustration over the lack of access to certain assessment scores, which they believe should be available to them prior to public release. This discussion underscored the board's commitment to transparency and accountability in educational performance.

In a lighter moment, community member Jennifer Bonfiglio, known for her dedication to caring for ducks at the middle school, urged the board to reconsider a policy affecting the birds. She passionately defended her efforts to provide proper care for the ducks, emphasizing their dietary needs and the legal protections surrounding them.

Overall, the meeting reflected a proactive approach to educational improvement and community engagement, with a clear focus on enhancing student learning experiences and addressing local concerns. The board's commitment to navigating challenges while fostering a supportive educational environment was evident, setting a positive tone for the upcoming school year.