In a recent school board meeting, concerns were raised regarding a significant change in the Advanced Placement (AP) Physics course at the local high school. A parent, Mr. Menlove, expressed alarm that the course, initially advertised as a non-calculus based AP Physics 1 class, has been transitioned to an AP Physics C course, which is calculus-based. This shift has left many students, including his son, unprepared, as approximately 60% of the class lacks a calculus background. Mr. Menlove emphasized the need for immediate support to ensure students can succeed in this unexpected academic challenge.

The board acknowledged the issue and committed to following up on it in future discussions. Mr. Traeger, a teacher at the high school, also addressed the board, highlighting the need for additional support for the Santa Fe robotics team, which has faced restrictions on competition to allow new students to participate. He proposed the creation of a paid position to oversee the robotics program, ensuring continuity and quality of instruction.

Additionally, Mr. Traeger advocated for the establishment of a dedicated STEM coach within the district to enhance science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education across schools. He also called for the reinstatement of the Astro Camp program for fifth graders, which had previously provided enriching experiences for students.

On the teaching front, Mr. Traeger raised concerns about the ongoing shortage of substitute teachers, which has impacted lesson planning and classroom management. He urged the board to revisit their efforts to recruit more substitutes, as the current situation is hindering effective teaching.

Finally, he requested the reapproval of educational materials and tools that have been essential for instruction, such as Pivot Interactives and Gizmos, which were utilized during the pandemic but are no longer accessible to all teachers. Mr. Traeger concluded by inviting board members to an upcoming physics teachers conference at Monrovia High School, showcasing the institution's commitment to educational excellence.

The board members listened attentively but refrained from commenting during the public session, indicating that they would take the concerns raised into consideration for future meetings.