Richland One Board approves Mastery Connect contract for $323K student assessment software
May 30, 2025 | Richland 01, School Districts, South Carolina
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The Richland 01 Board of School Commissioners convened on May 29, 2025, to discuss various agenda items, including public participation, financial reports, and new software contracts. The meeting commenced with an invocation led by Reverend Doctor Johnny Ray Noble, who emphasized the importance of community and collaboration in education.
Following the invocation, the board addressed the spotlight segment, which recognized individuals for their contributions over the past 45 years. A suggestion was made to honor those individuals at a future meeting due to inclement weather preventing their attendance.
Public participation was noted, but no individuals signed up to speak. The board then moved to the consent agenda, which included the approval of minutes from previous meetings and the monthly financial report. Commissioner Devine motioned to approve the consent agenda, which was seconded by Commissioner Bishop. A brief discussion ensued regarding the financial report, particularly concerning the timing of expenditures and the status of ongoing projects. The board unanimously approved the consent agenda.
The meeting progressed to a significant item regarding a contract for Mastery Connect software, presented by Miss Hodges. The administration requested approval for a subscription valued at $323,566.18, which is intended to enhance formative assessment capabilities within the district. Questions arose about potential overlaps with the iReady program, which is also utilized for student progress monitoring. Doctor Williams clarified that while both programs serve different purposes, they would be used in conjunction to support various content areas.
The board engaged in a thorough discussion about the monitoring of Mastery Connect's usage, with assurances provided that monthly reviews are conducted to assess its effectiveness across schools. Following this discussion, the board moved to vote on the contract, which was approved.
In conclusion, the meeting highlighted the board's commitment to enhancing educational resources and ensuring effective financial oversight, with plans for future recognition of long-serving community members. The next steps include the implementation of the Mastery Connect software and continued monitoring of its impact on student learning outcomes.
Following the invocation, the board addressed the spotlight segment, which recognized individuals for their contributions over the past 45 years. A suggestion was made to honor those individuals at a future meeting due to inclement weather preventing their attendance.
Public participation was noted, but no individuals signed up to speak. The board then moved to the consent agenda, which included the approval of minutes from previous meetings and the monthly financial report. Commissioner Devine motioned to approve the consent agenda, which was seconded by Commissioner Bishop. A brief discussion ensued regarding the financial report, particularly concerning the timing of expenditures and the status of ongoing projects. The board unanimously approved the consent agenda.
The meeting progressed to a significant item regarding a contract for Mastery Connect software, presented by Miss Hodges. The administration requested approval for a subscription valued at $323,566.18, which is intended to enhance formative assessment capabilities within the district. Questions arose about potential overlaps with the iReady program, which is also utilized for student progress monitoring. Doctor Williams clarified that while both programs serve different purposes, they would be used in conjunction to support various content areas.
The board engaged in a thorough discussion about the monitoring of Mastery Connect's usage, with assurances provided that monthly reviews are conducted to assess its effectiveness across schools. Following this discussion, the board moved to vote on the contract, which was approved.
In conclusion, the meeting highlighted the board's commitment to enhancing educational resources and ensuring effective financial oversight, with plans for future recognition of long-serving community members. The next steps include the implementation of the Mastery Connect software and continued monitoring of its impact on student learning outcomes.
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