In a recent meeting, the Catoosa County Public Schools (CCPS) Board of Education and leadership reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining the district's status as the premier public school system in the region. With a focus on providing essential resources and staffing, the district is taking significant strides to enhance student learning and support.

One of the key initiatives discussed was the partnership with Bridal to explore the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies in classrooms. This year, the technology department is prioritizing faculty and staff training while developing a district-wide AI policy. The aim is to ensure that classroom tools align with educational standards and prioritize student data privacy, especially in an era where cybersecurity is a growing concern. To address this, CCPS is working closely with each school to create individualized plans for learning continuity in the event of a cybersecurity incident.

Effective communication with stakeholders remains a priority for CCPS. The district utilizes various channels, including a monthly newsletter, to keep parents informed about news and events. The parent portal has proven to be a valuable resource, with over 43,000 logins recorded this year.

In addition to academic initiatives, CCPS is deeply committed to supporting student mental health. This year, several programs have been implemented, including weekly small group meetings with a counselor from Bridge Health at Gateway and a mentor pilot program at Battlefield Elementary and LFO High School. The district is also collaborating with Kate's Club, which provides grief counseling for students who have lost a close relative.

The importance of health services in schools was highlighted, with CCPS ensuring that every school has a nurse. During the first semester alone, school nurses handled over 42,000 visits, providing essential health services, screenings, and educational support to students.

Transportation is another critical aspect of the district's operations. The CCPS Guardians on Wheels department transports over 6,000 students daily across 350 routes, utilizing a fleet of 50 buses. This year, a notable improvement was the implementation of a two-tier route pickup system, which has enhanced efficiency.

As Catoosa County Public Schools continues to evolve, the dedication to student well-being, academic excellence, and effective communication remains at the forefront of their mission. The initiatives discussed in the meeting reflect a proactive approach to addressing the needs of students and the community, ensuring a bright future for the district.