Board members voted to approve the Wayne County Public Schools beginning teacher support handbook after a district presentation describing program standards, mentor selection and monitoring, and outcomes from 2024–25.

Mr. Weeks and Dr. Brown summarized the three‑year induction structure, mentor requirements, and monitoring timelines. The district reported 47 first‑year beginning teachers, 48 second‑year teachers and 62 third‑year teachers for a total of 157 beginning teachers, representing about 14% of the certified teacher workforce. The program currently uses 52 site‑based mentors; the presentation noted that 72% of beginning teachers are alternatively licensed and that mentor stipends are provided.

Presenters outlined five standards required by state policy: systematic induction, mentor selection and development, mentoring for instructional excellence, targeted professional development, and formative assessment of candidates and programs. The district said mentors conduct monthly site‑based meetings, assist with professional development plans, observe beginning teachers, and help arrange peer observations. The handbook also documents required observation durations and artifact collection timelines.

Dr. Brown highlighted district compliance and monitoring: summative and formative evaluation completion rates were reported at or near 100% for required items, teacher working condition survey participation rose to 96.6%, and mentor/mentee feedback surveys inform program adjustments. The district said NCDPI monitoring was scheduled and that staff were preparing documentation for an October review.

The board took a single motion to approve the handbook. The motion was made by Crystal West and seconded by Wade Latham; the chair called for a voice vote and the motion carried unanimously.

"We are in constant place of improvement and looking back at what needs to be done so that our teachers get what they need," Dr. Brown said during the presentation.

The approved handbook will be submitted to the state as the district’s official BTSP plan and districts staff said they will continue mentor training and two learning labs for beginning teachers in the coming year.