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Board tables $254,820 CT3 professional learning contract amid concerns about methods and review
Summary
The board deferred approval of a $254,820 contract for CT3 professional learning after board members requested additional review by principals and teaching-and-learning staff and raised questions about evidence and program tone.
The Newton County Board of Education on Tuesday tabled a proposed $254,820 contract for CT3 professional learning services to the June 17 regular meeting, after several board members requested more review and input from principals.
The board considered item 13D, a one-year professional learning contract proposed to be funded from non-general funds and focused on classroom management and teacher coaching at federally identified schools. The item was presented for approval, but board member Eddie Johnson later moved to table the item so principals and the teaching-and-learning division could review vendor materials and outside critiques; the motion was seconded and the board approved tabling the item.
Board members raised specific concerns during the discussion. Miss Henderson Baker and others asked whether principals had seen the contract and vendor materials; a teaching-and-learning staff member said the division and some school leaders had been introduced to CT3 but not all principals had yet reviewed it. Questions were raised about third-party reviews, including a National Public Radio piece and academic critiques, and whether CT3’s approach — described in some external reports as “real-time coaching” and branded by CT3 as “No Nonsense Nurturing” — is evidence-based and appropriate for Newton County classrooms.
Dr. Bridal, speaking from his experience as a former principal, said he had used CT3 in a previous turnaround context and reported positive outcomes but acknowledged the board’s request to investigate further. Teaching-and-learning staff and board members agreed to gather additional external reviews, ensure principals examine the program, and report findings before the June 17 meeting.
The tabling vote leaves the district without an approved CT3 contract at this meeting and directs staff to return with a summary of reviews and principal feedback. No contract was executed at the meeting.
