Hartford Public Schools public meetings in 2020

Regular Meeting

The Hartford Board of Education will consider approving the demolition and abatement phase of Bulkeley High School renovations, adopting a Bring Your Own Device policy, and authorizing a roof replacement for the Buildings & Grounds Facility. These items were moved forward from committee meetings. The board will also receive reports on the district's instructional vision and a plan to build strong readers in grades 6-12.

• Bulkeley High School schematic design – vote on demolition and abatement phase
• Bring Your Own Device Policy – second reading and adoption
• Roof replacement for Buildings & Grounds Facility – added roof drains, interior plumbing lines, exhaust fans
• Report on HPS Instructional Vision (discussion of core elements: differentiated, collaborative, culturally relevant, etc.)
• Report on continuous plan for building strong readers in grades 6-12 using Workshop Model and AIR

The Board approved the appointment of Bethany Silver as Chief Performance Officer and adopted a Bring Your Own Device Policy. The Board also authorized the acceptance of a $250,000 grant from the Nellie Mae Education Foundation.

• Appointed Bethany Silver as Chief Performance Officer (4-0)
• Adopted Bring Your Own Device Policy (4-0)
• Approved $250,000 grant from Nellie Mae Education Foundation (4-0)
• Approved Bulkeley High School Phase 5 abatement and demolition documents (4-0)
• Approved Building & Grounds Facility Roof Design drawings (4-0)
• Approved minutes from 11/17/2020 (4-0)

Finance & Audit Committee

The Hartford Public Schools Finance & Audit Committee meets virtually to discuss contracts, COVID-related funding, budget process updates, and a monthly budget report for Period 4. Items are primarily informational or discussion; no votes are indicated in the agenda.

• Review of monthly budget report for Period 4 (General Fund and Activity Fund)
• Update on COVID-related funding
• Budget process update and timeline
• Contracts/items for regular meeting (if any)
• Follow-up items discussion

The committee reviewed the budget timeline and the distribution of budgets to principals and department heads via Allovue software. No formal votes or contracts were decided during the meeting.

Policy Committee

The Policy Committee will conduct a final review of a proposed Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) policy for Hartford Public Schools. The committee will also discuss ongoing board bylaws review and other policies as time permits.

• Final review of HPS Draft Policy on BYOD, Acceptable Use, and Social Media
• Ongoing review of Board Bylaws (informational, discussion)
• Discussion of other policies if time allows

The committee advanced the Bring Your Own Device policy for a second reading and adoption. The review of Board Bylaws was tabled, and the committee referred pandemic-related grading and attendance policies to the Teaching & Learning Committee.

• Moved Bring Your Own Device Policy forward for second reading and adoption on December 15, 2020
• Tabled ongoing review of Board Bylaws
• Referred pandemic grading and attendance policies to the Teaching & Learning Committee

Family & Community Engagement Committee

The Hartford Public Schools Family & Community Engagement Committee will receive a monthly report on the Welcome Center, an update on Title I funds for the 2020-21 school year, and an update on the Family Learning Institute. The committee will also discuss students who are unaccounted for and review family engagement policies. All items are informational or discussion only.

• Monthly Welcome Center Report with intake data through November 2020
• Update on Title I Funds for 2020-21 school year
• Family Learning Institute update with event dates and families reached
• Discussion on students unaccounted for
• Discussion on Family & Community Engagement policies

The committee reviewed the Monthly Welcome Center Report and noted that 990 students across the district remain unaccounted for. Members discussed the distribution of Comcast internet vouchers and the status of Title I funds. No formal votes were taken on policies or expenditures.

• Reviewed Monthly Welcome Center Report
• Confirmed all FCSSPs received Title I funds for 2020-21 SY
• Discussed Comcast internet voucher eligibility and hotspot distribution
• Reported 990 potential no-show students district-wide

School Choice & Facilities Committee

The School Choice & Facilities Committee will receive a presentation on the Bulkeley School schematic design, review roof replacement drawings for a B&G Facility, and discuss an item related to 110 Washington Street. Updates from the Office of Enrollment and School Choice, as well as a general Facilities Update, are also on the agenda. Community inquiries will be addressed.

• Presentation on Bulkeley Schematic Design
• Roof Replacement Drawings for B&G Facility
• Item concerning 110 Washington Street
• Office of Enrollment & School Choice Update
• Facilities Update

The committee moved the Bulkeley High School schematic design and the Buildings & Grounds Facility roof replacement forward to the regular Board meeting. A proposal to return the 110 Washington Street building to the City of Hartford was deferred for further vetting.

• Moved Buildings & Grounds Facility roof replacement to regular Board Meeting
• Moved Bulkeley High School schematic design to regular Board Meeting
• Moved Bulkeley High School demolition and abatement phase to regular Board Meeting
• Tabled vote on returning 110 Washington Street building to the City of Hartford

Workshop Meeting: Strategic Operating Plan Update: Culture & Climate/Teaching & Learning

This is a workshop meeting of Hartford Public Schools to discuss updates to the Strategic Operating Plan. The board will review student attendance data under Priority A (School Culture and Climate) and early literacy assessment data under Priority C (Teaching and Learning). No votes or decisions are scheduled; the session is for discussion and information only.

• Review of student attendance data under Priority A: School Culture and Climate
• Review of early literacy student assessment data under Priority C: Teaching and Learning

Teaching & Learning Committee

The Hartford Public Schools Teaching & Learning Committee will hold a virtual meeting to discuss two informational items: the district's instructional vision and a continuous plan for building strong readers in grades 6-12. No votes or decisions are scheduled; the committee will receive presentations and engage in discussion.

• Discussion of the District's Instructional Vision (informational item 1.01)
• Discussion of the HPS Continuous Plan to Building Strong Readers in 6-12 (item 2.01)

The committee discussed the District's Instructional Vision, which aligns classroom practice with the District Model of Excellence and the Portrait of a Graduate. Members also reviewed the 'Workshop Model' for building strong readers in grades 6-12. No formal votes were recorded.

Regular Meeting

The Hartford Board of Education will hear committee reports and consider several action items, including approval of an Alliance Grant application and a first reading of a Bring Your Own Device policy. The meeting will also discuss a 47% chronic absenteeism rate and COVID-19 response processes.

• 47% of students (7,686) chronically absent; 126 students have not attended any school
• Alliance Grant application approval for funding
• First reading of Bring Your Own Device policy in response to malware attack
• Discussion of CROWN Act prohibiting race-based hair discrimination
• Facilities update: MERV 13 filters at HPHS, roof replacement project postponed

Finance & Audit Committee

The Finance & Audit Committee will discuss mitigation of a projected $30 million deficit for the 2021-22 school year. They will also receive updates on COVID-related funding and the budget development calendar. An end-of-year budget report for 2019-20 is scheduled as an informational item.

• Projected $30 million deficit mitigation discussion for 2021-22 school year
• COVID-related funding update
• Budget development calendar update
• End of year budget report for 2019-20

The committee discussed a $600,000 payment to Autumn Transportation for labor and insurance costs. Members reviewed three budget scenarios for the upcoming cycle and noted that a previously projected $36 million deficit has been reduced to a range of $17-20 million.

• Decided to cover $600K in bus driver, monitor, and insurance costs for Autumn Transportation
• Proposed three budget scenarios: 'As-is', 'Funding Volatility' ($15M decline), and 'Covid Continuation'

Family & Community Engagement Committee

The Family & Community Engagement Committee will receive an informational report from the Welcome Center, discuss Title I funding for the 2020-21 school year, review an update on the Family Learning Institute, and hold a discussion on students who are unaccounted for. No votes or decisions are scheduled.

• Monthly Welcome Center Report – informational
• Title I Funds 2020-21 SY discussion: what funding will look like and how monies can be spent
• Family Learning Institute Update: event dates, families reached, planning and facilitators
• Discussion on Students Unaccounted For

The committee reviewed a Welcome Center report detailing 397 intakes and McKinney Vento student identifications. Members discussed the planning process for 2020-21 Title I funds and provided updates on the Family Learning Institute and student outreach efforts.

• Reported 397 Welcome Center intakes with top requests for hotspots, enrollment, and transportation
• Identified 30 students under the McKinney Vento Act
• Scheduled McKinney Vento and Choice workshop for Nov 12th
• Directed FCSSPs to plan Title 1 activities and host at least 3 workshops before December
• Reported two Family Learning sessions held in October regarding Google Classroom and internet safety
• Scheduled Family Learning sessions for Nov 19 (academics) and Dec 17 (Social Emotional Support)
• Reported 1,040 home visits conducted as of Oct 30th to locate 948 remaining 'no show' students

Policy Committee

The Hartford Public Schools Policy Committee is discussing the CROWN Act, which would ban race-based hair discrimination in schools. The committee is also reviewing equity and anti-racism policies, a Bring Your Own Device policy, and ongoing updates to board bylaws. All items are informational or discussion only; no votes are scheduled.

• Discussion of the CROWN Act (Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair) to prohibit hair discrimination
• Review of a Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) policy
• Discussion of Equity and Anti-Racism policies
• Ongoing review of Board Bylaws

The committee moved the draft Bring Your Own Device Policy to a first reading at the November regular meeting. Members discussed the CROWN Act and equity and anti-racism policies, and continued the review of Board Bylaws.

• Moved Bring Your Own Device Policy for a first reading at the November regular meeting

School Choice & Facilities Committee

The School Choice & Facilities Committee meets virtually to discuss items for the November 17 regular meeting, including roof replacement drawings and an Alliance Grant application. The agenda also includes updates on enrollment, facilities, and transportation, as well as community inquiries. Most items are informational or discussion.

• Roof Replacement Drawings - B&G Facility
• Alliance Grant Application Approval
• Office of Enrollment & School Choice Update
• Facilities Update
• Transportation Update

The School Choice & Facilities Committee moved the Alliance Grant application and the Buildings & Grounds Roof Replacement project to the November regular meeting agenda. The committee also received updates on school enrollment, facility air filters, and transportation safety protocols.

• Moved Alliance Grant application to November Regular Meeting
• Moved Buildings & Grounds Roof Replacement project to November regular meeting

Teaching & Learning Committee

The Teaching & Learning Committee will hold an informational discussion on three topics: a review of current teaching practices and areas for improvement, an overview of attendance and truancy data, and a presentation of the district's COVID response process. No formal decisions are indicated on the agenda.

• Teaching & Learning Update – discussion of what is working and needed improvements
• Attendance/Truancy – review of attendance data (T&L Attendance DataPPT.pdf)
• COVID Response Process – review of response plan (COVID Response TeamPPT.pdf)

The committee discussed the development of a stakeholder survey and the need for teacher professional development in remote instruction. Members reviewed data showing 47% of students are chronically absent and outlined steps to reengage students.

• No substantive decisions were made; the meeting consisted of updates and discussions

Regular Meeting

The Hartford Board of Education will consider approving contracts with Capital Community College and Virtual High School to offer Advanced Placement and early college courses. Reports also cover a $10 million state grant for building maintenance, a proposed graduation policy overhaul, and updates on PPE, cleaning protocols, and the RSCO magnet lottery.

• Contracts with Capital Community College and Virtual High School for AP courses across high schools
• $10 million Alliance grant for maintenance improvements across the district
• Proposed graduation policy changes for Class of 2023 and beyond
• RSCO lottery dates moved to Dec 1 – Feb 28 for 2021-22 school year
• CROWN Act tabled to next Policy Committee meeting

The Board approved several contracts for educational services and health staffing, including a $600,000 increase for Soliant Health Inc. The Board also accepted over $1.8 million in adult education grants. Public comments focused on substitute teacher conditions, principal support, and school sanitation.

• Approved contract with Capital Community College not to exceed $92,690 (5-0-1)
• Approved contract with Virtual High School not to exceed $68,100 (6-0-0)
• Approved contract with Learning Sciences International not to exceed $150,085 (6-0-0)
• Approved contract with The Leadership Academy not to exceed $175,000 (6-0-0)
• Approved contract amendment with CDW not to exceed $93,405 (6-0-0)
• Approved contract amendment with Soliant Health Inc. increasing total to $900,000 (6-0-0)
• Accepted $117,531 from the Cooperating Eligible Entity grant (6-0-0)
• Accepted $1,696,252 from the CT State Department of Education Adult Education Provider Grant (6-0-0)

Finance & Audit Committee

The Finance & Audit Committee will review several contracts and grant requests, including a $900,000 amendment to Soliant Health and a $93,405 extension with CDW. It will receive updates on COVID‑related funding, the budget development calendar, and discuss a $30 million deficit mitigation plan. The committee will also present the 2019‑20 end‑of‑year budget report.

• Soliant Health Inc. amendment – $900,000 contract for speech‑language services (7/1/2020‑6/30/2021).
• CDW‑G contract extension – $93,405 for technician work on student devices (10/21/2020‑6/30/2021).
• Adult Education Provider Grant – $2,802,300 from CSDE (7/1/2020‑6/30/2021).
• $30 million deficit mitigation discussion.
• Roof Replacement Drawings for B&G Building (no dollar amount listed).

The committee reviewed and advanced eight contracts to the October 20 Regular Meeting. Members received updates on $22.2 million in COVID-related funding and discussed a budget development calendar and deficit mitigation. The 2019-20 End of Year Budget Report was tabled.

• Moved Adult Education Provider Grant to Oct 20 BoE Meeting
• Moved Adult Education CEE Grant to Oct 20 BoE Meeting
• Moved CDW contract to Oct 20 BoE Meeting
• Moved Soliant Health Inc. Amendment to Oct 20 BoE Meeting
• Moved Virtual High School contract to Oct 20 BoE Meeting
• Moved Capital Community College contract to Oct 20 BoE Meeting
• Moved Learning Science International (LSI) contract to Oct 20 BoE Meeting
• Moved The Leadership Academy contract to Oct 20 BoE Meeting

School Choice & Facilities Committee

The School Choice & Facilities Committee will hold a virtual meeting to discuss several items, including a proposed monument for Michael Curry at Bulkeley High School, roof replacement drawings for the B&G facility, updates on enrollment and school choice, facilities projects under an Alliance Grant, and COVID-19 PPE and cleaning protocols.

• Discussion of Michael Curry monument at Bulkeley High School (with letters of support)
• Roof replacement drawings for B&G Facility (to be presented at 10/20 Regular Meeting)
• Office of Enrollment & School Choice Update
• Facilities Update including Alliance Grant proposed projects
• Update on PPE and cleaning protocols (with PPETracker attachment)

The committee received an update on a $10 million Alliance grant for district-wide maintenance projects. Members discussed magnet school enrollment shifts and COVID-19 cleaning and PPE protocols. The Building & Grounds Roof Design item was moved to the October 20 regular meeting.

• Tabled Michael Curry monument item
• Moved Building & Grounds Roof Design to October 20 regular meeting
• Informed of $10 million Alliance grant for maintenance improvements

Family & Community Engagement Committee

The Hartford Public Schools Family & Community Engagement Committee will hear reports on the Welcome Center intake data for July-September 2020. Members will discuss Title I fund allocation and permissible uses. The meeting also covers family supports during distance learning, including workshops and the role of the FCSSP, plus an update on McKinney-Vento homeless student services.

• Monthly Welcome Center Report with intake data
• Discussion on Title I funding for the current year
• Family workshops and supports during distance learning
• McKinney-Vento homeless student services update
• Review of outstanding questions from prior meetings

The committee reviewed Welcome Center intake reports for July through September and discussed the identification of homeless students under the McKinney-Vento Act. Members discussed Title I funding applications and the impact of a ransomware attack on financial reporting. No formal votes were recorded.

• Reviewed Welcome Center intake totals: July (342), August (898), and September (962)
• Reported 46 students registered as homeless in September across 7 shelters
• Discussed Title I funding application due October 9, 2020
• Shared Family and Community Partnerships Calendar
• Reviewed town hall attendance figures from July 23 to August 27

Workshop Meeting: Strategic Operating Plan Update: COVID Health & Safety

The Hartford Public Schools will hold a virtual workshop on Tuesday, October 6, 2020 at 5:30 p.m. The meeting will open and then conduct a workshop session to discuss the Strategic Operating Plan update for COVID health and safety. The agenda lists a single substantive item, the SOP Update: COVID Health & Safety, classified as a discussion/information item. No decisions are indicated in the agenda.

• SOP Update: COVID Health & Safety – discussion of strategic operating plan

Policy Committee

The Hartford Public Schools Policy Committee will hold an informational discussion on the CROWN Act, which prohibits race-based hair discrimination in schools, and will continue a review of board bylaws. No votes or decisions are scheduled.

• Discussion of the CROWN Act (Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair) to address hair discrimination
• Ongoing review of board bylaws

The committee continued editing the Board bylaws, with a red line version expected for the board after the next meeting. The CROWN Act was tabled.

• Tabled CROWN Act to the next Policy Committee
• Continued review and editing of Board bylaws

Teaching & Learning Committee

The Teaching & Learning Committee will review several agenda items to be considered at the Oct. 20 regular meeting. Topics include a Soliant amendment, Advanced Placement courses in partnership with VHS and Capital Community College, the Leadership Academy, and the district's graduation policy. All items are listed as informational or discussion items.

• Soliant Amendment (informational/discussion)
• AP Courses partnership with VHS and Capital Community College (informational/discussion)
• Leadership Academy (informational/discussion)
• Graduation Policy (informational/discussion)

The Teaching & Learning Committee moved three contracts regarding AP courses and the Leadership Academy forward to the Regular Board Meeting. The committee also reviewed proposed changes to the Graduation Policy, which requires further review before moving to the Policy Committee.

• Moved two contracts for VHS and Capital Community College AP courses to Regular Board Meeting
• Moved one contract for the Leadership Academy to Regular Board Meeting
• Tabled Graduation Policy changes for further committee review

Regular Meeting

The Hartford Board of Education approved a $50,645 contract amendment with PowerSchool to move the student information system to cloud hosting after a ransomware attack. The board also adopted Title IX sexual harassment policies for both personnel and students. Reports covered declining magnet enrollment due to COVID-19 and facility updates including the over-budget Bulkeley project.

• Approved $50,645 amendment to PowerSchool contract for cloud hosting, total $402,711
• Adopted Policy 4118.32 – Title IX Sexual Harassment – Personnel
• Adopted Policy 5163.2 – Title IX Sexual Harassment – Students
• Facilities update: Bulkeley project over budget, redesign in progress; Weaver received certificate of occupancy
• Enrollment update: 3,371 completed registrations; magnet enrollment declined due to COVID-19

The Board of Education approved a contract amendment for PowerSchool and adopted two Title IX sexual harassment policies for personnel and students. The meeting included extensive public comment regarding COVID-19 safety, virtual learning materials, and substitute teacher contracts.

• Approved PowerSchool contract amendment for $50,645 increase through June 30, 2021 (5-0)
• Adopted Policy 4118.32 - Title IX Sexual Harassment - Personnel (5-0)
• Adopted Policy 5163.2 - Title IX Sexual Harassment - Students (5-0)
• Approved minutes from August 18, 2020 Regular Meeting (5-0)

Special Meeting

The Hartford Public Schools Board of Education will hold a special meeting to discuss the 'Return to Learn and Accelerate' plan for the upcoming school year. No votes or decisions are scheduled; the item is listed as discussion and information only.

• Workshop agenda item on 'Return to Learn and Accelerate (Back to School Planning)' for discussion

Regular Meeting

The Hartford Board of Education approved administrative appointments including a new Chief of Staff and a middle school principal, and authorized multiple contracts for COVID-19 supplies, software, and speech therapy services totaling over $800,000. The board also held first readings of policies on Title IX sexual harassment for personnel and students.

• Appointment of Amanda Aponte as Chief of Staff at $175,000
• Appointment of Amanda Martinez as Principal of Burr Middle School at $126,748
• Contract with Jeff Love, LLC for masks and gowns at $201,825 using COVID funds
• Contract with Soliant Health for speech-language services at $300,000
• Contract with Dell VMWare for laptop security at $54,825

The Board of Education appointed a Chief of Staff and a middle school principal. Members approved six vendor contracts totaling over $660,000 and scheduled a special meeting for September 1, 2020.

• Appointed Amanda Aponte as Chief of Staff (6-1)
• Appointed Amanda Martinez as Principal of Burr Middle School (6-0)
• Approved Jeff Love, LLC contract not to exceed $201,825 (6-0)
• Approved Frontline contract not to exceed $62,501 (6-0)
• Approved PSST contract not to exceed $72,687 (6-0)
• Approved DELL VMWARE contract not to exceed $54,825 (6-0)
• Approved Soliant Health, Inc. contract not to exceed $300,000 (6-0)
• Approved Cross Country Education contract not to exceed $113,400 (6-0)

Regular Meeting

The Hartford Board of Education held a virtual regular meeting on July 21, 2020. They approved two contracts: OPPortunity Academy for $880,800 to support over-age, under-credited students, and LINCSpring for $310,750 for teacher professional development funded by federal COVID grants. A third contract with The New Teacher Project for $164,956 was also considered but no vote is recorded. The board also discussed scenarios for reopening schools in fall 2020, noting that about 33% of survey respondents preferred homeschooling.

• Approved contract with OPPortunity Academy (Our Piece of the Pie) not to exceed $880,800 for re-engaging over-age, under-credited students
• Approved contract with LINCSpring for $310,750 for teacher professional development, funded by federal COVID-19 grants
• Considered contract with The New Teacher Project for $164,956 to support academic planning for 2020-2021
• Discussed return-to-learn scenarios including hybrid and full-remote options for fall reopening
• Reported 10,000 survey responses with 33% of families preferring to homeschool

The Board approved six contracts for educational services, technology, and staffing. The meeting also included extensive public comment from teachers and parents regarding COVID-19 safety protocols and the return to in-person learning.

• Approved contract with Our Piece of the Pie (OPPortunity Academy) not to exceed $880,800 (5-0-1)
• Approved contract with Learning Innovation Catalyst (LINCSpring) not to exceed $310,750 (4-1-1)
• Approved contract with The New Teacher Project not to exceed $164,956 (6-0-0)
• Approved contract with Teach for America not to exceed $60,000 (5-1-0)
• Approved contract with Hartford Performs not to exceed $314,000 (5-0-1)
• Approved contract with PowerSchool not to exceed $352,066 (6-0-0)

Regular Meeting

The Hartford Public Schools board will hear a public comment session and reports from the Chair, Superintendent, and Teaching & Learning Committee. The committee will move the MCC/Great Path Academy agreement to the regular meeting after Finance review and discuss the Commissioner’s Network Hartford Public High School Turnaround Plan. Construction progress at Weaver, Martin Luther King, Burns, and the Bulkeley Central Office will be updated, and educational specifications for Kennelly, Betances, and Wish schools will be considered for grant applications due June 30.

• MCC/Great Path Academy agreement moved to regular meeting pending Finance review
• Commissioner’s Network HPHS Turnaround Plan presented for discussion
• Construction updates: Weaver field house completed; MLK auditorium and gym to finish late fall; Burns PreK classrooms on schedule; Bulkeley Central Office renovation ongoing
• Educational Specifications for Kennelly, Betances, and Wish schools to be approved before June 30 grant deadline
• Interdistrict Magnet School Restructuring and Support Grant awards totaling $412,318, with $195,000 pending

The Board of Education extended Superintendent Leslie Torres-Rodriguez's contract through June 30, 2023. Members approved administrative appointments for two principals and authorized several facility renovation specifications to secure state grants. The Board also approved a management agreement with Manchester Community College.

• Approved Superintendent Leslie Torres-Rodriguez contract extension through June 30, 2023 (7-0)
• Approved appointment of Kevin Geissler as Principal at M. D. Fox School (7-0)
• Approved appointment of Annie Reinish as Principal at Global Communications Academy (7-0)
• Approved MCC/GPA Management Agreement not to exceed $2,900,000 through June 30, 2025 (7-0)
• Approved Raptor Technologies contract not to exceed $163,560 through June 30, 2021 (5-1)
• Approved renovation specifications for Betances Learning Lab Magnet School (6-0)
• Approved renovation specifications for E.B. Kennelly School (6-0)
• Approved renovation specifications for Fred D. Wish School (6-0)

Finance & Audit Committee

The Finance & Audit Committee is reviewing items for the June 16th regular meeting. Discussions include estimated renovation costs for three schools, a visitor management system, and a contract agreement.

• Renovation estimate for Betances Learning Lab Magnet School: $39,257,939
• Renovation estimate for E.B. Kennelly School: $44,908,493
• Renovation estimate for Fred D. Wish School: $45,424,024
• Raptor web-based visitor and emergency management system discussion
• MCC/Great Path Agreement not to exceed $2,900,000.00

The committee reviewed several contracts and specifications, moving them forward for consideration at the June 16 regular meeting. A monthly financial report through April 2020 was provided.

• Moved BoE Relocation Phase 3 (FF&E) and Phase 4 (Technology) to June 16 meeting
• Moved Ed Specs for Betances, Kennelly, and Wish to June 16 meeting
• Moved Raptor Technologies contract to June 16 meeting
• Moved MCC/Great Path Agreement contract to June 16 meeting

Family & Community Engagement Committee

The Family & Community Engagement Committee will receive the May 2020 Welcome Center report and discuss a contract for a web‑based visitor management system from Raptor Technologies. The Raptor system is intended to support visitor, volunteer and emergency management and is based on an existing GSA contract. The discussion is scheduled for the June 16 regular meeting.

• Monthly Welcome Center Report for May 2020 (informational)
• Review of contract with Raptor Technologies for visitor, volunteer, and emergency management system
• Attachments: Welcome Center Report May 6.2.20 revised.pdf; Parent calls to the Welcome Center - May 2020.pdf; Volunteer Manual.pdf

The committee approved moving the Raptor Technologies contract to the June 16th regular board meeting, pending Finance Committee vetting. The tool is intended for security screening and managing child custody and pickup documentation.

• Approved Raptor Technologies contract to move to regular board meeting pending Finance Committee vetting

Special Meeting

The Hartford Board of Education adopted the FY 2020-21 Itemized Estimate of Expenditures totaling $426,930,034, effective July 1, 2020. The board also voted to terminate the contract of teacher Cheryl Bleiler, following the recommendation of an impartial hearing officer. The meeting included an executive session on the personnel matter.

• Adoption of $426,930,034 budget for 2020-21, with $384,137,685 (86.6%) allocated to schools and students
• Expenditures include $289,693,437 from General Fund and $137,236,597 from Special Funds
• Motion to terminate employment of Cheryl Bleiler, effective June 2, 2020
• Board entered and exited executive session for personnel matter (C. Bleiler)

The Board of Education approved the FY 2020-21 Itemized Estimate of Expenditures. The board also voted to terminate the employment contract of Cheryl Bleiler effective June 2, 2020.

• Adopted FY 2020-21 budget of $426,930,034 (7-0)
• Adopted Findings of Fact and recommendation to terminate the employment contract of Cheryl Bleiler (6-0)

Policy Committee

The Hartford Public Schools Policy Committee will discuss a follow-up on data requests from a previous meeting and review the civility code and bylaws. Both items are informational and discussion-only, with no voting or decisions scheduled.

• Follow-up on data requests from April 6 meeting
• Review of civility code and bylaws (informational discussion)

The committee decided that the Board will vote on all Chair-recommended appointments, both internal and external. Members reached a consensus to approve positions of Principal and cabinet/chiefs. The committee also proposed a requirement for the student senate to make an annual presentation to the Board.

• Decided Board will vote on all Chair-recommended internal and external appointments
• Reached consensus on Board approval for Principals and cabinet/chiefs
• Proposed Policy 9160 update requiring student senate to make annual presentations to the Board

School Choice & Facilities Committee

The School Choice & Facilities Committee will discuss updates on several construction projects, including Weaver, MLK, Burns, and BoE/BHS. It will review draft education specifications for Kennelly, Betances Learning Lab, and Wish. The committee will receive updates on grant applications and the Office of Enrollment & School Choice. Finally, it will cover bus and safety measures for fall 2020, referencing CDC recommendations and cleaning protocols.

• Construction project updates for Weaver, MLK, Burns, BoE/BHS
• Draft education specifications for Kennelly, Betances Learning Lab, Wish
• Grant application updates
• Office of Enrollment & School Choice update
• Fall 2020 bus safety measures (CDC guidance, seating, cleaning)

The committee moved forward educational specifications and construction grant applications for Kennelly, Betances, and Wish schools to the June 16 regular board meeting. Members also received updates on ongoing construction projects and the status of several magnet school restructuring grants.

• Moved Ed Specs and construction grant applications for Kennelly, Betances, and Wish schools to June 16 board meeting

Teaching & Learning Committee

The Teaching & Learning Committee will hold a virtual meeting on May 27, 2020 to discuss two agenda items slated for the June 16 regular meeting. The items are the MCC/Great Path Agreement and the Commissioner’s Network HPHS Turnaround Plan, both listed as informational and discussion topics. No decisions are indicated in this agenda.

• MCC/Great Path Agreement – informational discussion
• Commissioner’s Network HPHS Turnaround Plan – informational discussion

The committee agreed to move the MCC/Great Path Academy agreement to the regular meeting, pending a review by the Finance committee. Members also reviewed the Hartford Public High School Turnaround Plan and its alignment with the Commissioner’s Network.

• Moved MCC/Great Path agreement to regular meeting contingent on Finance committee review

Public Hearing (2020-21 Budget)/Regular Meeting

The Hartford Public Schools Board holds a public hearing on the proposed 2020-21 budget, followed by a regular meeting. Committees report on grading guidelines for the continuity of learning plan, summer school planning, school choice placement tiers, and facilities projects. The board discusses the impact of COVID-19 on operations including transportation and contract adjustments.

• Teaching & Learning Committee reviewed a proposed contract increase for Teach for America due to resignations, but deferred pending more data.
• Quarter 4 grading will use a Pass/Fail system with a 50-100 scale; final exams canceled and no retentions in PreK-8.
• Summer school planning is underway but costs unknown; state relief funding not yet specified.
• School Choice & Facilities Committee discussed new SES-based placement tiers and their impact on Hartford families, with recalibration possible.
• Facilities updates: MLK construction on schedule for fall occupancy; Bulkeley High School renovation proceeding, no longer using Locust Street; 9 schools slated for renovation with 95% state reimbursement.

The Board of Education approved a contract amendment for Teach for America and authorized the filing of an E-Rate funding application for the 2020-21 fiscal year. A public hearing was held regarding the 2020-21 budget, featuring comments on technical schools, broadband access, and distance learning.

• Approved Teach for America contract amendment not to exceed $63,000 (5-1)
• Authorized filing of FCC Form 471 for E-Rate funding for FY 07/01/2020 - 06/30/2021 (6-0)
• Approved April 21, 2020 meeting minutes (6-0)

Finance & Audit Committee

The Finance & Audit Committee reviews contracts for the May 19 regular meeting, including a $63,000 Teach for America contract for 21 corps members and a $1.14 million E-Rate application for telecom and internet services. The committee also receives the monthly financial report through March 2020, a budget update, and a discussion of COVID-19's financial impact.

• Teach for America contract: $63,000 for 21 corps members
• E-Rate application: $1,139,709.48 total, with district share of $128,808.33
• Delta T Group contract amendment: $255 overage
• Monthly financial report through March 2020 provided
• Budget update and COVID-19 financial impact discussed

The committee moved contracts for Teach for America and E-Rate forward for a full board vote. Members discussed the monthly financial report and the impact of COVID-19 expenses on the budget.

• Moved Teach for America contract forward to full board for a vote (with reservations)
• Moved E-Rate contract forward to full board for a vote

Workshop Meeting: 2020-21 Budget

The Hartford Public Schools board holds a workshop to discuss the proposed 2020-21 budget. The agenda includes a budget book and presentation for review, with no formal decisions scheduled.

• Workshop session on 2020-21 budget
• Attached budget book and presentation for board review

Family & Community Engagement Committee

The Hartford Public Schools Family & Community Engagement Committee is meeting virtually on May 7, 2020. They will hear a monthly report from the Welcome Center, receive an update on the Caring and Connected Response Taskforce, and discuss a potential contract with Raptor Technologies for school safety software.

• Monthly Welcome Center Report – discussion of parent calls and services for April 2020
• Caring and Connected Response Taskforce (CCRT) – informational update
• Potential contract with Raptor Technologies – presentation and discussion on visitor management system

Policy Committee

The Hartford Public Schools Policy Committee is meeting virtually to follow up on data requests from the April 6 meeting, review the civility code and bylaws, and discuss the policy impact of a potential contract with Raptor Technologies. No votes or decisions are scheduled; all items are for discussion or information.

• Follow-up on data requests from the April 6 meeting
• Review of civility code and bylaws (informational/discussion)
• Discussion of policy impact for a potential contract with Raptor Technologies

The committee started a review of the Board Bylaws, series 9000. Members discussed staff appointment approvals and the creation of a legislative plan. No formal votes were taken.

• Moved data requests from 4/6 meeting to next meeting
• Tabled further bylaw review until bylaw 9160 at next meeting

School Choice & Facilities Committee

The Hartford Public Schools School Choice & Facilities Committee will meet virtually to receive informational updates on the Office of Enrollment & School Choice, facilities projects and the impact of closures, and transportation related to closures. No votes or decisions are listed on the agenda. The meeting is preparatory for the May 19 regular meeting.

• Office of Enrollment & School Choice update (presentation attached)
• Facilities update on projects and closure impact (informational/discussion)
• Transportation update on closure impact (informational/discussion)
• Possible items for the May 19 regular meeting to be discussed

The committee discussed the impact of a new state socio-economic index on student placement and the status of ongoing school construction projects. No formal votes were taken; the meeting consisted of informational updates and discussions.

Teaching & Learning Committee

The Hartford Public Schools Teaching & Learning Committee meets virtually to discuss grading guidelines for the fourth quarter and end of the year as part of the continuity of learning plan. They will also receive initial thinking on summer school and an informational update on the Teach for America program. The committee will consider these items for the May 19 regular meeting.

• Informational discussion on Teach for America program
• Quarter 4/End of Year Grading Guidelines (informational, discussion)
• Summer School - Initial Thinking (informational, report)
• Agenda items for May 19 Regular Meeting (procedural)

The committee established grading policies for the end of the school year, including a conversion to Pass/Fail for Quarter 4. Members reviewed a Teach for America contract but requested more data on retention and costs before moving forward. Initial discussions regarding summer school gaps and staffing were held.

• Set Quarter 4 final grades to automatically convert to Pass/Fail
• Canceled final course exams for grade determinations
• Determined no retentions in PreK-8
• Adjusted GPA calculations to reflect performance through March 16
• Established that seniors will not be penalized if unable to complete Capstone requirements
• Tabled Teach for America contract pending further data on retention and spending

Regular Meeting

The Hartford Board of Education will vote on a lease at 245 Locust Street to vacate Bulkeley High School during construction, potentially saving $20 million and completing the project one year earlier. The board will also vote on contracts for curriculum review (TNTP) and a performance management system (Decision Ed), and hear updates on distance learning, device distribution, and the RSCO lottery.

• Vote on lease at 245 Locust Street for Bulkeley swing space, with potential $20M savings and one-year construction acceleration
• Contracts: TNTP for curriculum review, assessments, and school diagnostic (Phase 1); Decision Ed for K-12 performance management system
• Update on distance learning: 43% of students had devices as of April 19; 4,000 additional devices ordered through foundation
• Announcement of monument marker for Michael Curry at Bulkeley High School (public input period to follow)
• RSCO lottery simulation review and flexibility for family response times during COVID-19

The Hartford Board of Education approved two service contracts and the acceptance of federal Title IV funds. The board also approved educational specifications for a facility roof replacement and designated an authorized signatory.

• Approved contract with The New Teacher Project not to exceed $69,935 (6-0)
• Approved acceptance of Title IV funds in the amount of $791,719 (6-0)
• Approved contract with DecisionEd Group, Inc. not to exceed $290,800 (6-0)
• Approved Clarence Zachery as Authorized Signatory for Hartford Public Schools (6-0)
• Approved Educational Specifications for Buildings and Ground Facility roof replacement (6-0)
• Approved March 24, 2020 meeting minutes (6-0)

Finance & Audit Committee

The Finance & Audit Committee will hear a monthly financial report through February 2020 and discuss several proposed contracts for the April 21 regular board meeting. Items include a web-based visitor and emergency management system from Raptor Technologies, a curriculum audit from The New Teacher Project, and contracts with Decision ED and for the Ed Specs B&G Roof and Locust St. Lease.

• Monthly financial report through February 2020 (informational)
• Raptor Technologies visitor/emergency management system – discussion for contract approval
• The New Teacher Project (TNTP) curriculum audit – discussion for contract approval
• Decision ED – discussion for contract approval (no details provided)
• Ed Specs B&G Roof and Locust St. Lease – discussion for contract approval

The committee moved contracts for Raptor Technologies, The New Teacher Project, DecisionED, and roof work to the regular meeting. A proposed lease for Locust Street was pulled from the agenda due to unvetted implications of moving students.

• Moved Raptor Technologies visitor and drill management contract to Leadership meeting for final approval
• Moved The New Teacher Project curriculum diagnostic contract to regular meeting
• Moved DecisionED performance management system contract to regular meeting
• Moved Ed Specs Buildings & Grounds roof contract to regular meeting
• Pulled Locust St. Lease from April 21st regular meeting agenda

Family & Community Engagement Committee

The Family & Community Engagement Committee will hold a virtual informational meeting to discuss distance learning and next steps for families during the COVID-19 pandemic. No votes or decisions are scheduled.

• Discussion of distance learning next steps for families

The committee reviewed efforts to distribute devices and provide technical support to families during the pandemic shutdown. Members discussed the use of the Welcome Center, the role of Family & Community Support Service Providers, and potential virtual enrichment options. No formal votes or policy decisions were recorded.

Policy Committee

The Policy Committee will review the district’s Civility Code and Board bylaws, using the attached model policy and current bylaws documents. It will also hold a discussion on the district’s expulsion policy, referencing the updated student policy document. No formal actions are listed on the agenda.

• Review of Civility Code and Board bylaws (informational)
• Discussion of Expulsion Policy (informational)

The committee held discussions regarding the expulsion process, the role of hearing masters, and potential equity issues concerning attendance requirements for early readmission. No formal votes or policy changes were decided during the meeting.

• Tabled Civility Code/Bylaws Review to the next meeting
• Requested data analysis on average attendance for alternative program students

School Choice & Facilities Committee

The Hartford Public Schools School Choice & Facilities Committee will discuss an update on the Regional School Choice Office (RSCO) lottery, a brief update on construction during the pandemic, and a proposed monument at Bulkeley High School. Also on the agenda is an educational specification for the B&G Facility roof replacement to be forwarded to the regular meeting. No votes or formal decisions are scheduled; all items are for discussion or informational purposes.

• Ed Specs for B&G Facility roof replacement (item for April 21 regular meeting)
• Discussion of a monument at Bulkeley High School with letters of support
• Brief update on construction during the COVID-19 pandemic
• Update on the RSCO lottery process

The committee advanced a proposal for a Michael Curry monument at Bulkeley High School to the April regular board meeting for public announcement. Members also discussed a potential lease at 245 Locust Street to accelerate Bulkeley construction, pending City Council and Board approval.

• Moved Michael Curry monument proposal to April regular board meeting for announcement
• Moved grant application for roof replacement educational specs to April regular meeting
• Ordered closure signs for all playgrounds/playscapes and removal of basketball rims

Teaching & Learning Committee

The Teaching & Learning Committee meets virtually to discuss and receive information on two contracts (TNTP and Decision Ed) and the district's Continuity of Learning Plan. No votes or decisions are scheduled; all items are informational and for discussion only.

• Discussion of The New Teacher Project (TNTP) contract
• Discussion of Decision Ed contract
• Discussion of the Continuity of Learning Plan

The committee moved the New Teacher Project and Decision Ed contracts forward for financial review and the Regular Meeting. Members also reviewed the district's Continuity of Learning Plan and distance learning implementation.

• Moved New Teacher Project contract for curriculum review and diagnostics to Finance Committee
• Moved Decision Ed K-12 Performance Management system contract to Finance Committee

Finance & Audit Committee

The Hartford Public Schools Finance & Audit Committee met virtually to discuss three contracts/items for a special meeting: LINCspring for distance learning preparation, Edgenuity Inc., and The Village at Burr School. All items were informational and for discussion only; no votes or decisions were taken.

• LINCspring distance learning preparation proposal
• Edgenuity, Inc. contract discussion
• The Village at Burr School item discussion

The committee reviewed four items and moved each forward to the March 24th Special Meeting for further action. These items include distance learning platforms, a student success center contract, a community partner extension, and an authorized signatory update.

• Moved LINCspring distance learning platform contract to March 24th Special Meeting
• Moved Edgenuity, Inc. online license contract continuation to March 24th Special Meeting
• Moved The Village at Burr School contract extension to December 31, 2020 to March 24th Special Meeting
• Moved addition of Clarence Zachery as authorized signatory to March 24th Special Meeting

Special Meeting

The Hartford Public Schools Board held a special virtual meeting to receive reports from the Teaching & Learning Committee and School Choice & Facilities Committee. Committees discussed a proposed curriculum audit with TNTP costing up to $40,000 and a classroom diagnostic around $250,000, as well as a contract for trauma-sensitive learning environments at Burr School and an Edgenuity online platform continuation. The board also reviewed Burns School renovation plans and updates on the RSCO lottery, Sheff settlement, and residency verification.

• Proposed contract with Village for Families and Children at Burr School for trauma-sensitive learning environments.
• Edgenuity online platform contract continuation for credit recovery at HPHS, with plans for Weaver and Bulkeley.
• Curriculum audit proposal with TNTP ($40,000) and classroom diagnostic (approx. $250,000) to evaluate instructional materials.
• Burns School renovation design including new stairwell, elevator, and solar-ready features; parking entrance on Park Terrace adjusted.
• RSCO lottery update: concerns about open choice seats at Renzulli and impact of technical school applications on waiting lists.

The Board of Education adopted the 2020-2021 District Calendar. Members also approved five separate contracts for educational services and facilities, ranging from $70,000 to $380,499.

• Adopted 2020-21 District Calendar (7-0)
• Approved LINCspring contract not to exceed $190,000 (7-0)
• Approved Frontline Education contract not to exceed $380,499 (7-0)
• Approved Allovue Inc. contract not to exceed $317,075 (7-0)
• Approved The Village for Families and Children at Burr School contract not to exceed $70,000 (7-0)
• Approved Edgenuity Inc. contract not to exceed $99,875 (7-0)
• Approved February 18, 2020 regular meeting minutes (7-0)
• Approved March 3, 2020 special meeting minutes (7-0)

Finance & Audit Committee

The Hartford Public Schools Finance & Audit Committee will review contracts for the March 17th regular meeting, including Allovue, Edgenuity, The Village at Burr School, and a Frontline contract amendment. They will also receive a monthly financial report through January 2020 and a budget development update. All items are informational and discussion only, with no votes expected.

• Contract discussion: Allovue (budgeting software)
• Contract discussion: Edgenuity (online curriculum)
• Contract discussion: The Village at Burr School
• Contract amendment: Frontline (HR/payroll software)
• Monthly financial report through January 2020

The committee reviewed contracts for Allovue and Frontline and moved both forward to the March 17th regular meeting. Members discussed potential shifts to the budget development timeline and the possibility of adopting budgets by January in future years.

• Moved Allovue contract forward to the regular meeting
• Moved Frontline contract forward to the regular meeting

Family & Community Engagement Committee

The Family & Community Engagement Committee will receive informational reports and discuss updates on the Welcome Center, a Family Toolkit, Community Schools, and FCSSP Cohorts. No votes or decisions are scheduled; all items are for discussion and information only.

• Welcome Center Update (report attached)
• Family Toolkit presentation and discussion
• Community School Update discussion
• FCSSP Cohorts informational discussion

The committee reviewed the safety transfer process and the status of the online Family Toolkit. Members discussed homeless transportation costs and professional learning sessions for Family and Community Support Service Providers (FCSSP).

Special Meeting

The Hartford Board of Education approved the schematic design for the Burns Latino Studies Academy renovation and appointed Kimberly Oliver to the School Building Committee. The board tabled the adoption of the 2020-2021 school calendar to the March 17 regular meeting. A workshop session discussed high school design under the Equity in Excellence initiative.

• Approval of Burns Latino Studies Academy Renovation Schematic Design (State Project #064-0312 RR)
• Appointment of Kimberly Oliver to the Hartford School Building Committee replacing Julio Flores
• Tabling of 2020-2021 School Calendar adoption to March 17 regular meeting
• Workshop on Equity in Excellence: High School Design

The Board of Education approved the schematic design for the Burns Renovation project and appointed Kimberly Oliver to the School Building Committee. The 2020-2021 school calendar was tabled for a future meeting.

• Tabled 2020-2021 School Calendar to March 17th meeting (5-0)
• Appointed Kimberly Oliver to the Hartford School Building Committee (5-0)
• Approved Burns Renovation Schematic Design and authorized submission to the Office of School Construction Grants (5-0)

Policy Committee

The Policy Committee will hold a discussion on the district’s Civility Code and meeting conduct. Members will also review an anti‑racism policy and an equity toolkit. The agenda includes a discussion of community conversations on equity. No formal decisions are noted for this meeting.

• Civility Code & Meeting Conduct (discussion)
• Anti‑Racism Policy (discussion)
• Equity Toolkit (discussion)
• Community Conversations on Equity (discussion)

The committee discussed a proposed civility code and meeting conduct protocol and reviewed an equity toolkit for community conversations. No formal votes were taken; members will review documents and bylaws prior to the next meeting.

School Choice & Facilities Committee

The School Choice & Facilities Committee will receive informational updates and hold discussions on five items: the Burns Renovation project, the Regional School Choice Office (RSCO) lottery, the Sheff desegregation case, residency verification procedures, and the Bulkeley Monument. No action or votes are scheduled; all items are for discussion only.

• Burns Renovation project update
• RSCO Lottery Update
• Sheff Update (desegregation case)
• Residency Verification Update
• Bulkeley Monument discussion

The committee reviewed design plans for the Burns Renovation and moved the item to a special meeting. Members discussed the RSCO lottery process, the Sheff civil rights settlement, and new residency verification requirements for student payments.

• Moved Burns Renovation design forward to March 3 Special meeting
• Established that no provider payments will be made after July 1 without residency verification

Teaching & Learning Committee

The Hartford Public Schools Teaching & Learning Committee will review agenda items for the March 17, 2020 regular meeting. It will receive an update on the district's curriculum audit. The committee will also discuss a potential literacy strategy known as LETRS.

• Review agenda items for the 3/17/2020 regular meeting
• Curriculum audit update
• Potential literacy strategy – LETRS

The committee reviewed and moved two contracts forward to the March 17 regular meeting. Members also discussed proposals to partner with TNTP for a curriculum audit and diagnostic, and with LETRS for teacher professional learning.

• Moved Village for Families and Children contract for Burr School to regular meeting
• Moved Edgenuity contract continuation to regular meeting

Regular Meeting

The Board of Education will elect a Chair, Vice-Chair, Second Vice-Chair, and Secretary. They will also discuss and potentially adopt policies on School Governance Council term limits and staff smoking locations, and receive committee reports on the proposed 2020-21 school calendar (adding two full professional development days), assessment trends, and family engagement updates including assistance to 54 displaced Puerto Rican students.

• Election of officers: Chair, Vice-Chair, Second Vice-Chair, Secretary
• Proposed 2020-21 school calendar adds 2 full PD days (total 7) and strategically places PD days around historically low student attendance periods
• Second reading and adoption of policies on SGC perpetual term limits and staff smoking location
• Assessment trends presentation shows cohort improvement on SBAC, PSAT, and SAT over three years
• Family & Community Engagement report: Welcome Center assisted 567 families in January, including 54 students displaced by Puerto Rico earthquakes

The Board of Education elected its leadership team and approved five contract amendments and renewals for staffing and leadership services. The Board also adopted four policies regarding student health, governance, and safety, and approved construction plans for MLK school.

• Elected Ayesha Clarke (Chair), Karen Taylor (Vice Chair), Kim Oliver (Second Vice Chair), and Shonta Browdy (Secretary)
• Approved Soliant Health, Inc. contract amendment to $900,000
• Approved Sunbelt Staffing contract amendment to $100,000
• Approved Delta T Group, Hartford, Inc. contract amendment to $98,900
• Approved Mediscan II contract amendment to $70,000
• Approved Crock Leadership Associates, LLC contract not to exceed $76,350
• Adopted Policies 5174 (504/ADA), 1211 (School Governance Councils), 5136 (Prohibition Against Smoking), and 4118.31 (Sexual Harassment)
• Approved final construction plans for MLK school Phase V

Finance & Audit Committee

The Hartford Public Schools Finance & Audit Committee meets to discuss informational items, including contracts for the upcoming regular board meeting, a monthly financial report through December 2019, a budget update, and a residency verification update. No votes or decisions are scheduled; the session is for discussion and review only.

• Contracts/items for February 18th Regular Meeting
• Monthly Financial Report through December 2019
• Budget Update
• Residency Verification Update

The committee approved contracts for Sunbelt, Soliant, Delta T, New Mediscan, and Crock Leadership Associates to move forward to the board meeting. A contract for Allovue was discussed for future board consideration. The committee also announced that residency verifications for students in outside educational settings will be strictly enforced starting July 1, 2020.

• Approved Sunbelt, Soliant, Delta T, and New Mediscan contracts to move to board meeting
• Approved Delta T contract with a cost adjustment to move to board meeting
• Approved Crock Leadership Associates contract to move to board meeting

Family & Community Engagement Committee

The Hartford Public Schools Family & Community Engagement Committee will meet on February 6, 2020, to receive updates on School Governance Councils/Welcome Center and communications. They will also review the 2020-2021 school calendar, discuss family learning guides, and recap the Hopes & Dreams event. No votes or decisions are scheduled; all items are for discussion or information.

• Monthly update on School Governance Councils and Welcome Center
• Communications update with reports on social media, website stats, family messages, and help desk tickets (July 2019–Jan 2020)
• Review of the 2020-2021 school calendar
• Discussion of Family Learning Guides
• Recap of the Hopes & Dreams event

The committee discussed a proposed school calendar that would increase professional learning days to seven. Members reviewed the development of grade-level Family Learning Guides and received updates on Welcome Center activity and district communications.

• Proposed school calendar with 182 instructional days and 7 PD days shared for union feedback

BoE Meeting: Board Retreat

This is a board retreat meeting with a single agenda item: discussion of board goals and priorities. No votes or decisions are scheduled; the meeting is for information and discussion only.

• Discussion of Board Goals/Priorities (Item 1.1)

Policy Committee

The Policy Committee is reviewing four policies to be adopted at the February 18 regular meeting: Students Section 504/ADA, School Governance Councils, Community Smoking, and Sexual Harassment. They are also reviewing the 2020-21 school calendar and a draft crowdfunding policy, and debriefing a recent Equity Symposium.

• Review of policies on Students 504/ADA, School Governance Councils, Community Smoking, and Sexual Harassment for adoption
• Review of the 2020-21 school calendar
• Discussion of a draft crowdfunding policy, including a legal memo on concerns
• Debrief of an Equity Symposium

The committee discussed the 2020-21 school calendar, proposing a first reading for February 18. Members decided to merge a proposed crowdfunding policy into the existing fundraising policy for further vetting. No final votes were recorded during this meeting.

• Decided to fold crowdfunding policy into the existing Fundraising policy
• Proposed first reading of 2020-21 School Calendar for 2/18/2020
• Tabled crowdfunding policy for further vetting

Teaching & Learning Committee

The Teaching & Learning Committee discusses agenda items for the upcoming regular meeting and reviews district assessment trends. This is an informational and discussion session with no formal votes or decisions.

• Review of agenda items for the February 18, 2020 regular meeting
• Presentation on HPS overall assessment trends (file attached)

The committee reviewed a proposed 2020-21 school calendar that suggests increasing full professional development days to seven. Members also reviewed student assessment trends from 2016-19 across Smarter Balanced, P/SAT, and SAT exams. No formal votes were recorded.

• Reviewed proposed 2020-21 school calendar and staff professional development day changes
• Discussed proposal to increase full professional development days to 7
• Reviewed student assessment data for 2016-17, 2017-18, and 2018-19

Regular Meeting

The Hartford Board of Education voted to appoint Clarence Zachery as Chief Operating & Financial Officer effective January 22, 2020, with a salary of $192,000. The board also authorized naming the Weaver School Based Health Center after Leah O'Neill Fichtner. Discussions included a projected $3.6–6.3 million increase in special education tuition for FY2021 and a 4.5% decline in district enrollment from 2018 to 2019.

• Appointment of Clarence Zachery as COO/CFO at $192,000 salary
• Naming of Weaver School Based Health Center after Leah O'Neill Fichtner
• Special education tuition projected to increase $3.6–6.3 million (5.3–9.2%) in FY2021
• District enrollment declined 4.5% from 2018 to 2019, projected to drop 2.6% in FY2021
• Discussion of Summer Bridge program and DME building update

The Board of Education approved the appointment of Clarence Zachery to a senior financial role and named a school health center. The meeting also included extensive public comment regarding adult education relocation and PCB testing.

• Appointed Clarence Zachery as Chief Operating & Financial Officer (7-0, 1 abstain)
• Authorized naming the Weaver School Based Health Center after Leah O'Neill Fichtner (7-0, 1 abstain)
• Approved motion to enter executive session for litigation and superintendent review (8-0)
• Approved motion to exit executive session (8-0)