District staff used the superintendent update to highlight the Red Tail Cadets aviation program, recent philanthropic gifts and a community session on the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act.

Dr. Ebony Shaw, reporting on community engagement, described the Red Tail Cadets program as a six‑week aviation and leadership summer training program for high‑school students that honors the Tuskegee Airmen. Applicants must be enrolled in the district in grades 9–11, be at least 16 years old by July 1, 2026, and maintain a minimum 3.25 GPA; recruitment events were scheduled for Oct. 14 at the district’s high schools and a parent information session was set for Nov. 12 at the Administration Building. Dr. Shaw said roughly 91 students currently meet the program’s eligibility criteria and that the program has graduated 28 cadets to date; among alumni, three have earned private pilot’s licenses, four have enlisted on aviation tracks in the military, six are pursuing aviation bachelor’s degrees and one received a full scholarship.

The Ferguson‑Florissant Foundation for Education also announced a $31,000 gift from the John Lang Memorial Fund supporting third‑grade teachers and a pledge of an additional $60,000 for college support in 2026–27. Dr. Shaw said the district’s fall grant cycle is open through Oct. 20 and district employees may apply for grants of up to $2,000 to support classroom innovation.

Dr. Shaw also flagged an informational session on the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA) set for Oct. 18 at Steam Academy in McClure/South Berkeley; district communications will promote the session and support community members who may qualify.

Board members thanked staff and the foundation for the programming and philanthropic support and encouraged community participation at recruitment and informational events. No board action was required; administrators said they will continue outreach and share application information with eligible students and families.