The Special School Board Meeting for Coos Bay Public Schools took place on March 31, 2025, focusing on student performance and instructional strategies. The meeting highlighted various initiatives aimed at improving literacy and math skills across the district.

The session began with Principal Davidson discussing the positive impact of office referrals at Eastside School. She noted that students enjoy celebrating their achievements, which fosters a positive school environment. Davidson emphasized the importance of recognizing student successes, stating that many students express joy during these celebrations.

Member Gills commended the progress made in the schools, particularly in establishing a strong foundation for future learning. He inquired about the instructional strategies being implemented, specifically regarding grade-level assessments. Davidson explained that the school is still allowing students to take assessments at their grade level and below, as they continue to adapt their teaching methods.

Davidson attributed the success of the literacy program to a collaborative effort among teachers, who proactively engaged in a book study to enhance their understanding of effective reading instruction. She acknowledged the challenges faced by long-time educators in adjusting their teaching practices but highlighted their commitment to improvement.

The discussion then shifted to the use of data in instructional planning. Educators are now able to identify students' specific needs in real-time, allowing for targeted interventions. This data-driven approach enables teachers to group students effectively based on their learning requirements.

Principal Ed provided an overview of Madison School's progress, noting improvements in reading skills. He stressed the need for more practice to close gaps in student learning, particularly in kindergarten. Ed highlighted the importance of early intervention, as younger students require less time to catch up compared to older students.

The meeting concluded with a review of data trends, indicating that while some students are making progress, there is still a significant need for improvement, especially in foundational skills such as phonics and decoding. The board expressed a commitment to continue monitoring student performance and refining instructional strategies to ensure all students achieve their academic goals.

Overall, the meeting underscored the district's dedication to enhancing educational outcomes through collaborative efforts, data utilization, and a focus on early intervention.