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DeWitt reports strong K–8 benchmark gains; CHAP to hold two public hearings on updated health materials
Summary
District officials reported K–8 NWEA benchmark gains (81% at/above average in reading) and announced the combined Comprehensive Health Advisory Team will hold two public hearings on updated HIV materials and lessons tailored for students with cognitive impairments; a public commenter urged stronger anti‑bullying responses after describing severe incidents affecting their child.
Brian Decker presented K–8 benchmark assessment results and summarized work by the district's Comprehensive Health Advisory Team (CHAP).
Decker said K–8 reading results surpassed the district's goal, with about 81% of tested students at or above the NWEA national "average/high average/high" threshold (roughly 2,000 students tested per administration). He attributed gains to continued data review processes, curricular alignment and support from specialists, noting NWEA algorithm changes affected a math quarter last year but that spring measures show year‑over‑year improvement.
On health education, Decker said the CHAP (a combination of the wellness committee and the previously separate health advisory board) recommends two updated materials for HIV instruction — a subject the presenter said state statute requires be taught — and two lessons from an approved curriculum tailored for students with cognitive impairments at the high school level. He outlined the required public‑hearing process: two hearings spaced at least two weeks apart with board action at the second June meeting.
During public comment a resident described ongoing bullying their child faced that led to severe anxiety and early withdrawal from school for part of the year, saying attempts at mediation and building responses were insufficient. The commenter requested clearer and stronger bullying policies to prevent similar harm. Board members thanked the commenter; the transcript does not record a specific remedial commitment at that time.
Decker said curriculum materials and building‑level NWEA results are posted online and the CHAP will bring recommended policy revisions and materials back to the board after the public‑hearing period.
