Highland, Cavelero principals highlight belonging initiatives, instructional strategies and student programs

Two school presentations emphasized a focus on belonging, targeted instruction and student supports.

Dean of Students Ryan Barci presented Highland Elementary’s year theme, "We Are All In," described a word-of-the-day routine that includes part of speech, syllable structure and kid-friendly definitions, and introduced monthly family groups to support social-emotional learning. Barci cited Panorama data showing declines in several measures from fall 2023: 63% reported "understanding as a person" (down 7 percentage points), 59% reported a sense of belonging (down 11 points), and overall school climate averaged 61% (down 10 points). Director Vildan Kirby asked whether Highland had seen a demographic influx affecting belonging; Barci said the concept of belonging may require clearer language and visible practices to be meaningful to students.

At Cavelero Mid High, Principal Dr. Sellers and his administrative team described a "Better Together" theme, common Tier 1 instructional strategies (the "Four at the Door" and the 10/2 direct-instruction method), MTSS supports, and PBIS activities such as Colt Card pop-ups and redemption events to promote positive behavior. CTE Director Dan Tedor highlighted VEX Robotics teams that competed at the world championships and student certifications in Microsoft Office and Adobe products. Dr. Sellers reported increased family involvement at Cavelero events and credited a revised cell-phone policy with improved intellectual engagement; he said medical exceptions are managed through the school health plan.

Board members thanked both schools for their presentations and asked follow-up questions about cohort-level Panorama breakdowns, classroom norms and transition expectations. The presentations will inform school-improvement planning and district support efforts.