Board hears strategic-plan progress: instructional framework, MTSS rollout, professional learning

Administrators presented updates on the district’s strategic plan, describing work since August to develop a unified instructional framework and an aligned professional-learning program. The instructional framework centers on four domains: vision and culture, core instructional practices, student engagement, and data/assessment/feedback. Staff described monthly steering-team work that includes building representatives and teacher leaders.

Professional learning has included sessions on artificial intelligence and digital citizenship, and district staff noted an upcoming Apple support visit to assist teachers using the district’s new 1:1 iPads. Administration also outlined plans to expand explicit instruction and science-of-reading training for all teachers beginning in March.

The board received a detailed briefing on MTSS (multi-tiered system of supports). Administration emphasized a year focused on strengthening tier 1 (whole-group instruction) and preparing district-supported tier 2 interventions with decision rules and progress monitoring; the aim is to reduce overreliance on ad hoc individualized supports and to create consistent, curriculum-tied small-group interventions. Staff also described work on behavior-tier frameworks (tier 1 for behavior) and inclusive-practices cohorts through ESU 3; Project Harmony will provide a session on human trafficking supports at staff request.

Board members asked about teacher training, criteria for identifying students for tier 2, and how the district will balance autonomy in buildings with equitable access across schools. Administration said MTSS rollout will continue behind the scenes this year and will be presented more broadly on a professional learning day before staff-wide implementation.