School Board Approves Exciting Changes for Ninth Graders
August 20, 2024 | Wissahickon SD, School Districts, Pennsylvania
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During a recent school board meeting, significant discussions centered around educational initiatives and budgetary considerations for the upcoming school year. A notable highlight was the successful collaboration led by Steve, which resulted in a modification to tax bills that now include information about how tax dollars benefit the school district. This change was well-received, with board members expressing pride in the initiative.
The meeting also addressed the curriculum and technology committee's agenda, which included the approval of school start and end times for the 2024-2025 academic year, with no changes proposed. Additionally, the board reviewed anticipated costs for outplacement educational services and tuition, noting that some contracts are still under review, leading to estimates being provided.
A key proposal discussed was the shift in the starting grade for students attending the North Montco Technical Career Center from tenth to ninth grade, effective in the 2025-2026 school year. This change, driven by student feedback, aims to provide students with more time to engage in their chosen trades and fulfill certification requirements. The estimated budget impact of this change is approximately $80,000, based on an expected increase of ten students.
The board also sought approval for several agreements, including partnerships with the Montgomery County Intermediate Unit for Title I, II, and III services, and a memorandum of understanding with the Montgomery County Office of Children and Youth to support transportation for students in foster care. Furthermore, a generous donation from Lockheed Martin, valued at $20,000, was acknowledged to support the revised science curriculum at the high school level.
The meeting concluded with a vote on various action items, including the approval of the new ninth-grade option for North Montco, which passed despite some opposition. Board members emphasized the importance of improving communication regarding available programs at North Montco to ensure that students and parents are well-informed about educational opportunities.
The meeting also addressed the curriculum and technology committee's agenda, which included the approval of school start and end times for the 2024-2025 academic year, with no changes proposed. Additionally, the board reviewed anticipated costs for outplacement educational services and tuition, noting that some contracts are still under review, leading to estimates being provided.
A key proposal discussed was the shift in the starting grade for students attending the North Montco Technical Career Center from tenth to ninth grade, effective in the 2025-2026 school year. This change, driven by student feedback, aims to provide students with more time to engage in their chosen trades and fulfill certification requirements. The estimated budget impact of this change is approximately $80,000, based on an expected increase of ten students.
The board also sought approval for several agreements, including partnerships with the Montgomery County Intermediate Unit for Title I, II, and III services, and a memorandum of understanding with the Montgomery County Office of Children and Youth to support transportation for students in foster care. Furthermore, a generous donation from Lockheed Martin, valued at $20,000, was acknowledged to support the revised science curriculum at the high school level.
The meeting concluded with a vote on various action items, including the approval of the new ninth-grade option for North Montco, which passed despite some opposition. Board members emphasized the importance of improving communication regarding available programs at North Montco to ensure that students and parents are well-informed about educational opportunities.
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