Derby High School staff proposed piloting two new art electives—jewelry-making and fibers—based on a student interest survey and preliminary public feedback.

Katie Toole, director of teaching and learning, said the art department surveyed students in April and received more than 270 responses; jewelry and fibers were the top preferences. Toole said the pilot information and draft pacing guides were posted on the district website and the district received three public responses to the Google form, all positive.

Nut graf: Staff asked the board for permission to run the pilot in spring; the presentation included sample pacing guides and examples of student projects. No formal vote was recorded on the pilot during the Oct. 13 public session; staff asked for board permission to run the pilot and offered to return with results and any scheduling details required.

Ending: Staff indicated the pilot would inform future course offerings; the board did not take immediate, recorded action during the meeting and the district will return with scheduling and staffing specifics if the pilot proceeds.