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Seymour highlights CATCH pilot and new RISE middle‑school support; staff report early successes
Summary
District staff presented the high‑school CATCH alternative‑education pilot and the RISE middle‑school support program, reporting small cohorts, voluntary student participation, and pathways back to regular classes for students who meet goals.
Seymour school staff used the Oct. 6 board meeting to report early results from two programs aimed at students needing alternatives to full‑time placement in regular classrooms.
At the high school, presenters described the CATCH program as a pilot alternative‑education option for students who were at risk of dropping out or who needed a different classroom structure. District presenters said the program has produced graduates and currently serves several students; parents are involved in decisions about a student’s return to the regular school program. The district reported positive classroom observations and said outside consultants who have run similar programs encouraged the district to present CATCH as a model to peer districts.
At Seymour Middle School, administrators described RISE, a school‑based program for students identified with functional disabilities or who need a short‑term, targeted support space during the school day. The RISE model keeps the majority of its students (presenters said about 90% of the school day) in mainstream classes; designated RISE classrooms and a case manager/RISE teacher provide an on‑site option for students to step out of class when needed. Presenters said the program is voluntary, parent‑involved and intended as a way to reduce out‑of‑district placements by meeting needs within the district.
Why it matters: Both programs are intended to keep more students in district schools, provide tailored supports, and reduce the need for costly out‑of‑district placements. Board members praised staff and asked for continued updates and enrollment projections.
What the board asked staff to do next: administration said it will continue to monitor outcomes, keep the board informed of enrollment and success metrics, and report as the pilot continues.
