The 2022-23 school year concluded successfully in the Needham Public Schools, and at its last meeting of the academic year the School Committee discussed ongoing efforts to ensure the Portrait of a Needham Graduate Strategic Plan continues to move forward. Some of the accomplishments highlighted include:
• Piloting the new elementary social studies program, Investigating History; implementing the elementary math curriculum, Illustrative Math; Piloting proficiency based grading in all World Language classrooms; Launching the 10th grade interdisciplinary program; adopting an early literacy screener
• Developing a Social & Emotional Learning and Mental Health (SELMH) framework, a tiered continuum of supports that students may need at any point in their schooling; piloting restorative practices as an additional tool to build community, increase belonging and accountability, and promote an improved school climate; align school schedules with program needs (e.g., "What I Need" or WIN block at elementary level)
• Increased parent engagement through the use of the Parent survey, development of the English Language Learners Parent Advisory Council (ELPAC), REAL Coalition; the publishing of the Let's Get REAL newsletter detailing our efforts around equity and inclusion.
• Filed a Statement of Interest with the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) as a first step towards addressing the School Facilities Master Plan; increased the level of diversity within our staff; completed successful negotiations with teachers (Unit A), administrators (Unit B), and paraprofessional staff (Unit C); collaborated with Cornelius Minor to provide ongoing professional learning involving the instructional staff around the conditions for learning for all students.
It has been a busy and productive year for our students and the staff, and we look forward to the opportunity to recharge our batteries over the summer, even as we begin planning for the 2023-24 school year. For additional information about the district goals and action steps for the upcoming school year, check out the June 20, 2023 School Committee presentation.
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