New student representatives sworn; principal highlights belonging and culturally responsive education

The Franklin Pierce School Board welcomed and administered the oath to two new student representatives, then heard a presentation from Franklin Pierce High School Principal Brixie Marzano on school culture and inclusion.

Superintendent Goodpaster invited the new student representatives—named in the agenda packet and called to the podium—to take their oaths. One student thanked the board and described representation for Gates High School; the other said they were excited to serve and discussed student-led projects including a proposed sidewalks safety project and efforts to form a Leo Club.

Principal Brixie Marzano described the school's theme for the year—"Be Here, Be You, Belong"—and outlined work with the Associated Student Body, a newly formed trans student advocates group, and outreach to Hispanic/Latino students through the equity team. She said the school is restoring quarterly data cycles in professional learning teams to identify student needs and implement targeted interventions, noting a focus on culturally responsive education.

Board members thanked Marzano and highlighted strong community engagement at the school's open house and the availability of counseling resources. Marzano said the new trans student group has met and taken an action step but is "not ready to share that" publicly yet. The board encouraged continued support and recognized the performing arts center on the high school campus as a district-wide community asset.

The board then moved on to routine business.