The 2017-18 school year concluded successfully in the Needham Schools, and at its last meeting of the academic year the School Committee celebrated the many accomplishments of students, staff, and the community, including the following highlights:
• Equity audit completed and broadly shared with community; Race, Equity, Access, and Leadership (RACE) Coalition developed to address areas of opportunity and challenge
• Implementation of new writing units of study across the elementary level; Review of elementary ELA, math, and science curricula to ensure alignment with MA Curriculum Frameworks and new science standards
• Increased and consistent use of data and data teams in common planning times across all grade levels; Development and communication of new District Curriculum Accommodation Plan (DCAP) across all levels
• Technology Strategic Plan data show positive trends in the use of 1 to 1 devices to improve teaching and learning at all levels.
• Implementation of teacher leadership teams at each elementary school; Personalized professional development and learning implemented
• Aligned elementary report cards to District's Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) framework and structure
• Shared 2016 MetroWest Health Survey data and began addressing areas of concern; Administered 2018 District Survey to Students, Parents, and Staff (Results will be shared in fall of 2018)
• Broke ground on the new Sunita L. Williams Elementary School and the NHS classroom expansion project
• Initiated planning and program development for 2019-20 Full Day Kindergarten
• District website upgraded; school security measures and safety planning increased
• Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association (MIAA) Sportsmanship Award in Golf, Unified Track, and Girls Rugby; First Division I State Championship Title for NHS Baseball Team
It has been a busy and productive year, and we look forward to the opportunity to recharge our batteries over the summer, even as we begin planning for the 2018-19 school year. For additional information about the district goals and a presentation to the School Committee, check out our website: 2017-18 District Goals Update