Town of Rocky Hill
Board of Education
Minutes of Meeting
A special meeting of the Rocky
Hill Board of Education was held on
Discussion centered on items identified at the May retreat as areas for the Board to focus on in the future (time span 1-5 years). Several topics were addressed.
World Languages
Consensus was reached on delaying the question of foreign language at the elementary level until issues at the middle school and high school are fully addressed. It was agreed that research should be undertaken to determine which languages should be taught with specific focus on the continued viability of French. A committee will conduct appropriate surveys and prepare recommendations for the Board to consider.
Music
Interest was expressed in creating a strings program. A suggestion was made to survey students to find out who may already be playing a string instrument. It was also suggested that private lessons be made available this year at parent expense.
Guidance
Discussion focused on clarification of guidance vs. social work services at the elementary level. Administration indicated a need for additional services at the elementary level. With respect to the secondary level, discussion focused on the desire to further strengthen assistance in the college selection process and transition to the world of work.
Math
Discussion centered on the desirability of increasing math resource services to bring them more in line with the model used in the area of language arts. It was also suggested that the array of courses at the high school be studied.
General
Interest was expressed in reviewing the distribution of honors level offerings across all disciplines at the high school to insure equity.
Professional Development
The importance of professional development was acknowledged and administration was encouraged to continue exploring creative ways to provide professional development activities.
Enrichment Issues
Administration was encouraged to expand enrichment activities using fees to support such activities. As an example, it was noted that the elementary science clubs have proven very successful.
Early Childhood
Discussion focused on the two major obstacles to moving towards all-day kindergarten and expanded pre-school. Lack of classroom space and increased staffing costs were discussed.
Supervision Considerations
The need for enhanced coordination and articulation of curriculum was discussed. The possibility of buying time from other districts or pairing with another district were raised. Administration was asked to research this item more fully and offer proposals for Board consideration during the budget review cycle.
Technology
Limitations inherent in continued reliance on the town’s wireless system were discussed. This issue was referred to the Facilities Committee for follow-up.
Facilities
Discussion centered on the desirability to pursue an RFP on the capacities of all of our schools to help plan for the future. A request was made to fast tract the enrollment projections to assist in better understanding our facilities needs.
Public Relations
Discussion was held on the need to maintain and increase our public relations efforts.
Miscellaneous
Discussion was held on the
benefits of a grant writer. The concept
of a grant writer obtaining funds at least equal to his/her salary as criteria
for continuation of the position from year to year was explored.
The meeting adjourned at
Respectfully submitted,
J. A. Camille Vautour
Recording Secretary
APPROVED BY: _____________________________
DATE: ________________________