Norwalk Public Schools public meetings in 2024

SpEd Curriculum Subcommittee Meeting

The SpEd Curriculum Subcommittee will consider assistive technology support and tools used in Norwalk Public Schools. The meeting includes public comment via email and approval of prior minutes. Only one substantive item is on the agenda.

• Review and possible action on Assistive Technology Support & Tools Used in Schools

Board Business Meeting

The Norwalk Board of Education is meeting to approve the FY25-26 Capital Budget Request. The board will also consider personnel actions, field trip approvals, and a recommendation for an Assistant Principal at South Norwalk Elementary School.

• Approval of the FY25-26 BOE Capital Budget Request
• Recommendation for Assistant Principal, South Norwalk Elementary School
• Approval of field trip to Puerto Rico
• Approval of Personnel Actions for December 2024
• Norwalk Seaport Association donation to BMHS Marine Science

Board Workshop Meeting

The Norwalk Board of Education will hold a workshop meeting to review the superintendent's recommended operating and capital budgets for fiscal year 2025-26, with members of the BET and Common Council participating. The board will also consider approving budget transfers. Public comments on workshop topics will be accepted in person, via Zoom, or by email.

• Approve budget transfers
• Review Superintendent FY26 Recommended Operating/Capital Budgets
• BET and Common Council members to participate in budget Q&A
• Public comments on workshop topics via Zoom or email

The Board unanimously approved budget transfers as presented. The meeting primarily consisted of a review of the Superintendent's FY26 recommended budget, including updates on graduation rates, facility improvements, and capital requests.

• Approved budget transfers as presented (unanimous)

Facilities Committee Meeting

The Norwalk Public Schools Facilities Committee will meet on December 2, 2024, at 6:00 PM to review and possibly act on a photovoltaic recommendation for South Norwalk Elementary School. They will also discuss a summer 2025 capital project forecast including tank removals, locker replacements, asbestos flooring removal, boiler conversions, and temporary air conditioning at several schools. An update on multiple school construction projects will be provided.

• South Norwalk Elementary School photovoltaic recommendation
• Summer 2025 capital projects: Brookside Elementary — remove underground oil storage tank
• Roton Middle School — replace student lockers
• Fox Run Elementary — remove asbestos flooring and replace with VCT
• Tracey Magnet School — remove underground oil storage tank, convert boilers from oil to natural gas, install temporary air conditioning

The committee approved the minutes from September 25, 2024. Members discussed the financial unfeasibility of a solar project at South Norwalk Elementary School and reviewed upcoming summer capital projects and school construction updates.

• Approved minutes of the September 25, 2024 meeting (Unanimous)

BOE Annual Organization/Business Meeting

This is the annual organization and business meeting of the Norwalk Board of Education. Members will elect officers for the coming term, vote on consent items including personnel and trips, and consider several action items. Key actions include approving a new policy on parental access to instructional materials, authorizing plans and cost estimates for South Norwalk Elementary School Phase 2 (furniture, fixtures, equipment, and technology), and accepting the completion of the Naramake Elementary School underground storage tank removal project. The board is also scheduled to discuss and take action on the termination of a tenured teacher's contract in executive session.

• Election of BOE officers for the annual term
• Approval of Policy 6008 Parental Access to Instructional Material
• Approval of plans, specifications, and final cost estimate for South Norwalk Elementary School New, Phase 2 (FF&E and Technology)
• Acceptance of Naramake Elementary School UST removal project (State Project 103-0261 CV/OT) as complete
• Discussion and action on termination of a tenured teacher contract (executive session anticipated)

The Board of Education held its annual organizational meeting to elect its leadership. Three officers were nominated and elected unanimously to their respective roles.

• Elected Diana Carpio as Chair (Unanimous)
• Elected Sheri McCready-Pritchett as Vice Chair (Unanimous)
• Elected Kara Nelson Baekey as Secretary (Unanimous)

Policy Committee

The Norwalk Public Schools Policy Committee will meet to approve minutes from October 21 and hear public comments via email. The committee will review and possibly act on a second revision of Regulation 5010a on fundraising, and a new policy 6008 on parental access to instructional materials.

• Approval of minutes from the October 21, 2024 Policy Committee meeting
• Review and possible action on 5010a Fundraising Regulation (second revision)
• Review and possible action on 6008 Policy on Parental Access to Instructional Material
• Public comments accepted via email until 4:00 PM day of meeting

The committee unanimously approved revisions to Policy 6008 regarding parental access to instructional materials. Members also reviewed a second revision of the 5010a Fundraising Regulation, which remains under consideration.

• Approved changes to Policy 6008 Parental Access to Instructional Material (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of October 21, 2024 (unanimous)

Finance Committee Meeting

The Finance Committee will review and potentially take action on budget transfers from October 2024. The body will also conduct a year-to-date budget review for FY25 and discuss updates regarding the FY26 budget development.

• October 2024 Budget Transfers
• FY25 YTD Budget Review
• FY26 Budget Development Update

The committee unanimously approved the budget transfers for October 2024. Members also reviewed the year-to-date budget for FY25 and received an update on the FY26 budget development process.

• Approved October 2024 budget transfers (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of October 9, 2024 (unanimous)

Curriculum & Instruction Committee Meeting

The Norwalk Public Schools Curriculum & Instruction Committee will meet to review and possibly take action on a K-12 initiative called 'Critical Thinking through Inquiry in the Humanities.' The meeting also includes approval of previous minutes and public comment via email.

• Review and possible action: Critical Thinking through Inquiry in the Humanities (K-12)

The committee approved the minutes from the September 10, 2024 meeting. Members also received a presentation on critical thinking through inquiry in the humanities for grades K-12, though no formal action was taken on the proposal.

• Approved September 10, 2024 minutes (2-0, 1 abstention)

Board Workshop Meeting

The Norwalk Board of Education holds a workshop to discuss community priorities, programs and staffing, and the Portrait of a Graduate curriculum framework. Public comments are accepted only on workshop topics, in person or by email (not read aloud). No votes are expected.

• Worksession on Community Priorities
• Worksession on Programs & Staffing
• Worksession on Portrait of a Graduate: Curriculum
• Public comments limited to workshop topics; must be in person or by email

The Board held a workshop to discuss the 2025/2026 school year planning, focusing on teacher recruitment, special education staffing, and curriculum updates. No formal votes were taken; the session served as a review of proposed budget priorities and educational initiatives.

Personnel & Human Relations Committee

The Personnel & Human Relations Committee will convene for a call to order, a grievance hearing (likely in executive session), and adjournment. The only substantive item is the grievance hearing; no other decisions or proposals are on the agenda.

• Grievance hearing involving Norwalk Federation of Educational Personnel (executive session anticipated)

Policy Committee

The Norwalk Public Schools Policy Committee is meeting to review and potentially take action on a specific regulation. The primary focus of the meeting is the 5010a Fundraising Activity Regulation.

• Review and possible action on 5010a Fundraising Activity Regulation

The committee reviewed a proposed policy for fundraising activity regulation (5010A), including discussions on PTA roles, adult sponsorship for students, and crowdfunding. No vote was taken on the policy, and the item was continued to the next meeting.

• Approved minutes of September 12, 2024 (unanimous)
• Continued fundraising activity regulation policy 5010A to the next meeting

Board Business Meeting

The Norwalk Public Schools Board of Education will consider approval of plans, specifications, and final cost estimates for Phase 2 (FF&E and technology) of the new South Norwalk Elementary School. The board will also vote on a tentative agreement with the Norwalk Administrators and Supervisors Association (NASA) and a collective bargaining agreement with the Norwalk Federation of Educational Personnel (NFEP). Consent items include personnel actions, field trips, approval of past meeting minutes, and September 2024 budget transfers.

• Approval of Plans, Specifications and Final Cost Estimate for State Project 103-0264 N, South Norwalk Elementary School New, Phase 2 – FF&E and Technology
• Authorize acceptance of Naramake Elementary School UST Removal (State Project 103-0261 CV/OT) as complete
• Proposed 2025 BOE Meeting Schedule for approval
• Tentative Agreement with Norwalk Administrators and Supervisors Association (NASA)
• NFEP Collective Bargaining Agreement for board approval

The Board of Education unanimously approved the NASA tentative agreement and the NFEP collective bargaining agreement. Members also approved construction plans for South Norwalk Elementary and accepted the completion of the Naramake Elementary UST removal project.

• Approved NASA tentative agreement and NFEP collective bargaining agreement (Unanimous)
• Approved plans, specifications, and final cost estimate for South Norwalk Elementary School New, Phase 2 – FF&E and Technology (Unanimous)
• Accepted Naramake Elementary School – UST Removal (State Project: 103-0261 CV/OT) as complete (Unanimous)
• Approved proposed 2025 BOE meeting schedule (Unanimous)
• Approved personnel, trips, September 2024 budget transfers, and amended minutes (Unanimous)

Finance Committee Meeting

The Norwalk Public Schools Finance Committee will review year-to-date monthly financials, consider September 2024 budget transfers, and receive an update on the FY2025-26 budget. Public comments are accepted via email before the meeting. The committee may take action on budget transfers and the budget update.

• Review of YTD Monthly Financials
• September 2024 Budget Transfers
• FY25-26 Budget Update
• Approval of prior meeting minutes
• Public comments accepted via email

The committee approved the minutes from the September 11, 2024 meeting. Members reviewed year-to-date financials, September 2024 budget transfers, and the FY25-26 budget update. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved September 11, 2024 minutes (unanimous)

Board Workshop Meeting

The Board of Education is conducting a workshop to review budget recaps and provide feedback. The meeting also includes discussions on 'Portrait of a Graduate' learning walks and specialized learning data.

• Budget Recap & Board Feedback
• Portrait of a Graduate: Learning Walks
• Specialized Learning: Data

The Board held a workshop featuring presentations from the Superintendent on future workshop timelines, the 'Portrait of a Graduate' goals, and district-wide learning walks. The Board reviewed data on special education prevalence, outplacements, and the FY 2024-2025 Capital Budget. No substantive policy or funding decisions were voted upon during the session.

• Adjourned meeting (Unanimous)

Ad-Hoc Inclusion & Educational Justice Committee

The Ad-Hoc Inclusion & Educational Justice Committee will meet via videoconference to review several educational initiatives. The agenda includes discussions on equity school visits, grading for equity, and 'Leading with Hearts and Minds'.

• Equity School Visits
• Grading for Equity
• Leading with Hearts and Minds

The committee approved the minutes from May 1, 2024. Staff provided updates on equity school visits, leadership workshops, mentorship programs, and a grading for equity pilot.

• Approved minutes of May 1, 2024 (Unanimous)

Facilities Committee Meeting

The Facilities Committee will review a summer projects update and vote on two action items: accepting the Naramake Elementary UST removal project as complete and approving plans, specifications, and final cost estimate for South Norwalk Elementary School Phase 2 (furniture, fixtures, equipment, and technology). Public comments are accepted via email until 4 p.m. the day of the meeting.

• NPS Summer Projects Update (discussion only)
• Authorize acceptance of Naramake Elementary School UST Removal State Project 103-0261 as complete
• Approval of Plans, Specifications and Final Cost Estimate for State Project 103-0264 N – South Norwalk Elementary School New, Phase 2 (FF&E and Technology)

The committee approved the plans, specifications, and final cost estimate for the New South Norwalk School Phase 2 FF&E and Technology project. It also accepted the completion of the Naramake Elementary School UST removal project. Members reviewed final presentations on furniture, technology, and playground updates.

• Approved minutes from June 24, 2024 meeting (Unanimous)
• Approved acceptance of Naramake Elementary School – UST Removal (State Project: 103-0261 CV/OT) as complete (Unanimous)
• Approved plans, specifications, and final cost estimate for South Norwalk Elementary School New, Phase 2 – FF&E and Technology (State Project 103-0264 N) (Unanimous)

Board Workshop Meeting

The Board of Education is meeting to discuss board roles and responsibilities and vote on multiple policy updates. These include new regulations on innovation, service animals, and civility, as well as revisions to suicide prevention and physical activity policies.

• Approval of Policy and Regulation 6014 and 6014a regarding Innovation
• Approval of updated Policy 5016 on physical activity, undirected play and student discipline
• Approval of revised Policy and Regulation 5026 and 5026a on suicide prevention and intervention
• Approval of new Policy 5036 regarding service animals
• Approval of budget transfers for July and August 2024 and year-end carryover and encumbrances

The Board of Education approved five policies regarding interaction with students and authorized budget transfers for July and August 2024. Members also agreed to updates for the Board Code of Conduct and approved moving over $2.5 million in carryover funds to the state.

• Approved five policies (A-E) regarding interaction with students (Unanimous)
• Approved moving over $2,500,000.00 in year-end carryover and encumbrances to the state
• Approved budget transfers for July and August 2024 (Unanimous)
• Agreed to elevate the confidentiality section and add individual member chain of command to the Code of Conduct

Board Workshop Meeting

This is a workshop meeting of the Norwalk Public Schools Board, featuring presentations on district accountability data and district-wide equity initiatives by Dr. Edward Fergus. No votes or formal decisions are scheduled; the session is informational only.

• District Accountability Data Presentation
• District Wide Equity Initiatives and Data presentation with Dr. Edward Fergus

The Board held a workshop session featuring a workstyle exercise and presentations on student assessment results and equity initiatives. No substantive policy or financial decisions were made during the meeting.

• Adjourned meeting (Unanimous)

Policy Committee

The Norwalk Public Schools Policy Committee will review and possibly approve several new and revised policies, including an innovation program policy (6014/6014a), a policy on physical activity and student discipline (5016), a suicide prevention and intervention policy (5026/5026a), a service animals policy (5036), and a civility policy (9024) for second reading. Public comments are accepted via email until 4 PM the day of the meeting.

• New policy 6014/6014a on Innovation Program
• Reviewed policy 5016 on Physical Activity, Undirected Play, and Student Discipline
• New policy 5026/5026a on Suicide Prevention and Intervention
• New policy 5036 on Service Animals
• Second reading of policy 9024 on Civility

The Policy Committee unanimously approved four policies and regulations regarding student play, innovation, service animals, and civility to be moved to the full board. The committee also discussed a new suicide prevention and intervention guide expected in October 2024.

• Approved August 8, 2024 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Policy B. 5016 Physical Activity, Undirected Play and Student Discipline and moved to full board (unanimous)
• Approved Policy A. 6014 and 6014A Innovation and moved to full board (unanimous)
• Approved Policy D. 5036 Service Animals and moved to full board (unanimous)
• Approved Policy E. 9024 Civility (second reading) and moved to full board (unanimous)

Finance Committee Meeting

The committee will review fiscal year 2024 year-end actuals and fiscal year 2025 year-to-date figures as of August. Members are scheduled to consider actions regarding FY24 year-end budget transfers and FY25 July-August budget transfers.

• Review of FY24 Year End Actuals
• Review of FY25 YTD as of August
• Approval of FY24 Year End Budget Transfers
• Approval of FY25 July-August Budget Transfers

The Finance Committee approved budget transfers for July and August of FY25. The committee reviewed unaudited FY24 year-end actuals and deferred the FY25 year-to-date presentation to a future workshop.

• Approved minutes of May 8, 2024 (Unanimous)
• Approved FY25 July-August budget transfers (Unanimous)

Curriculum & Instruction Committee Meeting

The Curriculum & Instruction Committee will consider approving a new historical fiction unit for middle school, along with updates to the arts curriculum and gifted and talented programs. The meeting is held via videoconference and accepts public comments via email until 4pm. Minutes from the May 14, 2024 meeting are also on the agenda for approval.

• New Historical Fiction Unit for middle school
• Updates to the Arts Curriculum
• Updates to Gifted and Talented program
• Approval of minutes from May 14, 2024
• Public comments accepted via email until 4pm day of meeting

The committee reviewed updates on the Science of Reading modules, a new middle school historical fiction unit, art curriculum updates, and gifted and talented testing. No formal actions were taken as a quorum was not present.

• Tabled approval of May 14, 2024 minutes (lack of quorum)

Board Business Meeting

The Norwalk Board of Education will vote on several policies, including the Increasing Educator Diversity Plan for minority educator recruitment, and on the appointment of an Executive Director of Human Resources and Legal Counsel. The board will also consider personnel actions, field trips, and updates on food services, attendance procedures, and the school opening.

• Approval of Policy 4015 – Increasing Educator Diversity Plan for Minority Educator Recruitment
• Appointment of Executive Director of Human Resources and Legal Counsel
• Approval of field trips: Roton to Nature's Classroom; CGS to Japan, Colorado, Thailand/Vietnam/Laos, South Korea, Qatar
• Review of attendance procedure and student youth survey for grades 7-12
• Approval of Policies 4008/4008a on employee computer use and Policy 9008 on construction and posting of agenda

The Board of Education recognized Nicole Jean as the 2024 Teacher of the Year and celebrated National Arts in Education Week. Officials presented updates on the Chartwells food service program and the district's updated attendance procedures. The meeting also included public testimony in support of the Norwalk Youth Survey.

Board Special Meeting

The Norwalk Board of Education is meeting to consider the appointment of two staff members. The board will review recommendations from the Superintendent of Schools for leadership roles at an elementary and high school.

• Appointment of Chris Olson as Assistant Principal of Cranbury Elementary School
• Appointment of Jennifer Chirles as STEAM Supervisor of P-TECH High School

The Board of Education unanimously approved two administrative appointments. Chris Olson was appointed as Assistant Principal of Cranbury Elementary School, and Dr. Jennifer Chirles was appointed as STEAM Supervisor of P-TECH High School.

• Approved appointment of Chris Olson as Assistant Principal of Cranbury Elementary School (Unanimous)
• Approved appointment of Dr. Jennifer Chirles as STEAM Supervisor of P-TECH High School (Unanimous)

Policy Committee

The Norwalk Public Schools Policy Committee will review and potentially act on several policies, including an Increasing Educator Diversity Plan for minority educator recruitment, employee use of computer systems, agenda posting procedures, and a proposed new Civility Policy. Public comments are accepted via email until 4 PM on the meeting day.

• Review of Policy 4015 – Increasing Educator Diversity Plan for Minority Educator Recruitment
• Review of Policies 4008 and 4008a – Employee Use of the District’s Computer Systems and Electronic Communications
• Review of Policy 9008 – Construction and Posting of Agenda
• Review of proposed new Civility Policy
• Approval of minutes from March 14, 2024 Policy Committee meeting

The committee approved moving three reviewed policies to the full board for final action. These updates include changes to educator recruitment wording, electronic communications language, and agenda posting. A proposed new civility policy was discussed but not moved forward.

• Approved minutes of March 14, 2024 (Unanimous)
• Moved Item 4015 Increasing Educator Diversity Plan for Minority Educator Recruitment to the full board (Unanimous)
• Moved changes to Item 4008 and 4008A Employee Use of the District's Computers Systems and Electronic Communications to the full board (Unanimous)
• Moved Item 9008 Construction and Posting Agenda to the full board (Unanimous)

Board Special Meeting

The Norwalk Board of Education will hold a special virtual meeting to consider several personnel appointments and approve a food services management contract for the upcoming school year. The board will also vote on final plans for underground storage tank removal at Brookside Elementary and Tracey Magnet School. Approval of minutes from the June 4 meeting is also on the agenda.

• Appointment of Randall Austin as Principal of South Norwalk Elementary School
• Appointment of Beth Furnari as Principal of P-Tech High School
• Approval of Food Services Management Company Contract for 2024-25 School Year
• Approval of final plans for Brookside Elementary School underground storage tank removal (State Project 103-0266 CV)
• Approval of final plans for Tracey Magnet School underground storage tank removal and boiler igniter conversions (State Project 103-0267 CV)

The Board of Education approved the appointment of two principals, two assistant principals, and a Human Resources Director. The Board also authorized a food services contract with Chartwells, Inc. and approved state projects for tank removals at two schools.

• Approved appointment of Randall Austin as South Norwalk Elementary School Principal (Unanimous)
• Approved appointment of Beth Furnari as P-Tech High School Principal (Unanimous)
• Approved appointment of Kayshawnia Wilson Torres as Kendall College & Career Academy Assistant Principal (Unanimous)
• Approved appointment of Maryann Murillo as Nathan Hale Middle School Assistant Principal (Unanimous)
• Approved appointment of Atty. Denise Altro-Dixon as Human Resources Director (4-1)
• Authorized contract with Chartwells, Inc. for 2024-25 food services management (Unanimous)
• Approved plans and cost estimates for underground storage tank removal at Brookside Elementary School (Unanimous)
• Approved plans and cost estimates for underground storage tank removal and boiler igniter conversions at Tracey Magnet School (Unanimous)

Board Special Meeting

The Norwalk Board of Education will vote on two administrative appointments at this special meeting: Randall Austin as Assistant Principal of South Norwalk Elementary School and Miranda Getz as Magnet STEAM Supervisor at Kendall College and Career Academy. The board also plans to discuss attorney communication in an anticipated closed executive session.

• Appointment of Randall Austin as Assistant Principal of South Norwalk Elementary School
• Appointment of Miranda Getz as Magnet STEAM Supervisor at Kendall College and Career Academy
• Discussion concerning attorney communication under attorney-client privilege (executive session anticipated)

The Board of Education approved two administrative appointments for the district's elementary schools. Both candidates were approved via unanimous votes.

• Approved Randall D. Austin as South Norwalk Elementary School Assistant Principal (Unanimous)
• Approved Miranda Getz as Kendall College and Career Academy Assistant Principal of Instruction (Unanimous)

Facilities Committee Meeting

The Norwalk Public Schools Facilities Committee will consider approval of final plans, specifications, and professional cost estimates for two state-funded projects: removing an underground storage tank at Brookside Elementary School and removing an underground storage tank and converting boiler igniters at Tracey Magnet School. The committee will also receive construction updates on several school building projects and HVAC grant projects.

• Approval of final plans and cost estimate for State Project 103-0266 CV: Brookside Elementary School – Underground Storage Tank Removal
• Approval of final plans and cost estimate for State Project 103-0267 CV: Tracey Magnet School – Underground Storage Tank Removal and Boiler Igniter Conversions
• Construction updates on Norwalk High School/P-Tech, South Norwalk School, and Cranbury School
• HVAC grant projects update

The Facilities Committee unanimously approved final plans and cost estimates for two state projects to be moved to the full Board of Education. The committee also received construction updates on the new South Norwalk elementary school and Norwalk High/P-Tech School.

• Approved May 22, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved final plans, specifications and professional cost estimate for Brookside Elementary School underground storage tank removal (unanimous)
• Approved final plans, specifications and professional cost estimate for Tracey Magnet School underground storage tank removal and boiler igniter conversions (unanimous)

Board Workshop Meeting

The Board of Education will review the final update on the 2023-24 Superintendent's goals and a draft of the goals for the 2024-25 period. The meeting includes a planned action to approve the new goals and expectations for 2024-25.

• Final update on 2023-24 Superintendent's Goals and Expectations
• Review and approval of 2024-25 Superintendent Goals and Expectations
• Superintendent Evaluation (anticipated Executive Session)

The Board of Education held a retreat workshop to review superintendent goals and conduct an evaluation. The board unanimously approved the 2024-25 Goals and Expectations for the Superintendent.

• Approved 2024-25 Goals and Expectations (Unanimous)

Board Workshop Meeting

The Norwalk Public Schools Board of Education will hold an informational workshop on June 7, 2024, at Brien McMahon High School-Library. The session will cover opening remarks from the Chair and Superintendent, a final update on the 2023-24 Superintendent's Goals and Expectations, and a focused review of Goal Five with Dr. Edward Fergus. Superintendent goals outline the district's performance targets and policy priorities for the academic year. This agenda lists only informational updates, with no votes or binding decisions scheduled.

• Opening remarks by Chair & Superintendent
• Final update on 2023-24 Superintendent's Goals and Expectations (Dr. Estrella and Cabinet Team)
• Presentation on Goal Five by Dr. Edward Fergus
• Location: Brien McMahon High School-Library, 300 Highland Avenue, Norwalk, CT 06854

The Board held a retreat workshop to review 2023-24 superintendent goals, student assessment data, and the district's equity framework. No substantive policy decisions or budget approvals were made during this session.

• Adjourned meeting (Unanimous)

Ad-Hoc Inclusion & Educational Justice Committee

The Ad-Hoc Inclusion & Educational Justice Committee is meeting to review updates regarding Grading For Equity. The body will also discuss next steps for the committee.

• Grading For Equity updates
• Committee next steps

The committee discussed a pilot program to train a cohort of Grade 6-12 teachers in 'Grading for Equity' practices across eight schools. The plan includes a two-day kickoff, four workshops, and the creation of a stakeholder committee for parents and students. The only formal action taken was the approval of previous meeting minutes.

• Approved May 1, 2024 meeting minutes

Board Business Meeting

The Norwalk Board of Education will decide on the FY25 operating budget reconciliation and a three-year contract extension for the Superintendent. The board will also consider a temporary waiver for budget transfers exceeding $10,000 to close out FY24.

• Approval of FY25 Operating Budget Reconciliation
• Authorization for Superintendent to approve FY24 budget transfers over $10,000
• Acceptance of Jefferson Elementary School Renovate-as-New Project (State Proj. 103-0251 RNV) as complete
• Contract extension for ECS & Relia Transportation through June 30, 2028
• Three-year contract extension for the Superintendent

The meeting consisted of several spotlight reports recognizing district achievements. The Board acknowledged LGBTQ Pride Month, a literacy grant for multicultural performances, and various awards given to schools and staff.

• Recognized June as LGBTQ Pride Month
• Acknowledged $25,000 Nellie Mae Education Foundation grant for multicultural performances
• Recognized Tracey Magnet School as a 2024 National School of Character
• Recognized NPS Communications Department for three CABE Awards of Excellence
• Recognized Principal James Crouch as the 2024 CAS Outstanding First Year Principal

Board Special Meeting

The Norwalk Board of Education holds a special work session to continue the mid-point stock-taking of its strategic plan and to review and revise the district goals for the 2024-25 school year. An action item is listed for the strategic plan discussion, while the goals review includes a draft document attached to the agenda.

• Continuation of mid-point strategic plan stock-taking with Superintendent Estrella & Dr. Richard Lemons (Action item)
• Review and revision of 2024-25 district goals with attached draft (V3)
• Special meeting held in person at Family Center, 1 Park Street

The Board held a workshop to refine the Mid-Point Strategic Plan through breakout sessions. Members discussed goals regarding finance, digital learning, and equity. The group agreed to discuss a final draft at the June retreat.

• Refined strategic plan goals in breakout sessions
• Agreed to discuss final draft at June retreat
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Facilities Committee Meeting

The Norwalk Public Schools Facilities Committee will consider accepting the closeout of the Jefferson Elementary School Renovate-as-New Project (State Proj. 103-0251 RNV) as complete. The meeting includes call to order, approval of prior minutes, and public comments accepted via email until 4pm.

• Acceptance of Jefferson Elementary School - Renovate-as-New Project - State Proj. 103-0251 RNV as complete

The committee unanimously voted to send a recommendation to the full Board of Education to accept the Jefferson Elementary School Renovation Project as complete. The action is required to financially close out the project with the Office of Grants Administration.

• Approved March 27, 2024 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved recommendation to the full Board to accept Jefferson Elementary School Renovation Project (State Proj. 103-0251 RNV) as complete (unanimous)

Board Business Meeting

The Norwalk Board of Education will consider appointing Jennifer Sweeters as principal of Kendall Elementary School. The board will also vote on a revised 2024-25 calendar adding an early dismissal on December 23, 2024, and approve the 2025-26 school calendar. Consent items include personnel actions and budget transfers. Public comments will be heard.

• Appointment of Jennifer Sweeters as Principal, Kendall Elementary School
• Revised 2024-25 school calendar with early dismissal on December 23, 2024, and 2-hour early dismissals going forward
• Approval of the 2025-26 school year calendar
• Approval of personnel actions and budget transfers
• Proclamation for Asian-American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Month and spotlight on Next Steps donation and poetry contest winners

The Board of Education unanimously appointed Ms. Sweeters as the principal of Kendall Elementary School. Members also approved a consent agenda covering personnel, budget transfers, and previous meeting minutes. The board reviewed budget challenges and staffing distribution, with a final budget expected on June 4th.

• Appointed Ms. Sweeters as Principal of Kendall Elementary School (Unanimous)
• Approved personnel appointments (Unanimous)
• Approved budget transfers (Unanimous)
• Approved previous meeting minutes (Unanimous)

MLL Curriculum Subcommittee

The MLL Curriculum Subcommittee will discuss family center registration and multilingual learner data, professional learning opportunities, celebrations, and family center events. No votes or decisions are scheduled; the meeting is informational and review-only.

• Review of minutes from February 26, 2024 meeting
• Discussion of family center registration and multilingual learner data
• Professional learning opportunities for MLL staff
• Celebrations of multilingual learner achievements
• Family center events and workshops

The committee approved the minutes from the previous meeting. Members reviewed data showing the multilingual learner (MLL) population has grown to 23% of the district, totaling 2,688 students. The session included updates on kindergarten registration and professional learning initiatives.

• Approved minutes from the last committee meeting (Unanimous)

Curriculum & Instruction Committee Meeting

The Curriculum & Instruction Committee of Norwalk Public Schools will meet on May 14, 2024, to review and possibly take action on several educational program updates. Items include social studies curriculum, middle school historical novel selection, arts programs, and summer academy data. The meeting will be held via videoconference and streamed on YouTube.

• Review of social studies curriculum update
• Review of middle school historical novel selection
• Review of arts program update
• Review of summer academy data

The committee reviewed updates on the social studies curriculum, the middle school historical novel program, and the arts curriculum. Staff also presented Summer Academy data showing a 22.9% overall decline in students performing below reading benchmarks between the middle and end of the year.

• Approved motion to adjourn (unanimous)

Finance Committee Meeting

The Norwalk Public Schools Finance Committee will meet to review a year-to-date financial report, consider budget transfers, and receive an update on the FY25 budget development. Public comments are accepted via email. The agenda also includes approval of minutes from previous meetings.

• Review of April YTD financial report
• Consideration of budget transfers
• Update on FY25 budget development
• Approval of minutes from Nov 8, 2023 and Mar 13, 2024 meetings
• Public comments accepted via email until 4 PM day of meeting

Board Workshop

The Board of Education is conducting a workshop featuring the Annual Forum with SGC Co-Chairs. The session includes a budget update and a review of the Panorama Survey.

• Budget update
• Panorama Survey review
• SGC 2023-24 highlights

The Board held a workshop featuring a review of Panorama survey results and a presentation on the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 budget process. No substantive policy or spending decisions were voted upon during the public session.

• Approved addition of executive session to discuss confidential Council communication (Unanimous)
• Approved motion to enter executive session (Unanimous)
• Approved motion to adjourn (Unanimous)

Ad-Hoc Inclusion & Educational Justice Committee

The Ad-Hoc Inclusion & Educational Justice Committee of Norwalk Public Schools is meeting to review an overview of the committee, recap equity and inclusion work, and discuss next steps. No votes or formal decisions are scheduled; the meeting is discussion-only.

• Presentation titled 'AD HOC Inclusion and Social Justice Committee 5-1-24.pptx'
• Overview of the Ad-Hoc Inclusion and Educational Justice Committee
• Recap of equity and inclusion work
• Discussion of next steps for the committee

The committee discussed the district's strategic priorities for equity and a proposed grading system focused on accuracy and bias resistance. The session included a review of previous disproportionality studies and recommendations for grading changes. No formal policy votes were taken other than the motion to adjourn.

• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

SpEd Curriculum Subcommittee Meeting

The Norwalk Public Schools Special Education Curriculum Subcommittee will review and possibly take action on several topics including Extended School Year, FAPE by age three and birth-to-three transition, NPS preschool programs for students with disabilities, and Bridging to Kindergarten evaluations. Public comments are accepted via email until 4pm on the meeting day.

• Extended School Year (review and possible action)
• FAPE by three and birth to three transition
• NPS preschool programs for students with disabilities (SWD)
• Bridging to Kindergarten and Turning six evaluations

The subcommittee held a workshop presentation on early childhood services, the Birth to Three transition, and the Extended School Year (ESY) process. No formal votes or decisions were recorded during the meeting.

Board Business Meeting

The Norwalk Board of Education will vote on a consent calendar including personnel actions and budget transfers, review the draft 2025-26 school calendar, and hear reports on grants, school-based health centers, and college fairs. Public comments will be taken in person and via Zoom.

• Spotlight on Autism Acceptance Month, National History Day, National Bilingual/Multilingual Learner Advocacy Month, Ponus Ridge Samsung Competition, and Ponus Ridge Girls Basketball
• Approval of Colleen Brosnan as Magnet STEAM Supervisor (personnel action)
• Approval of 2023-24 budget transfers (specific amounts not listed)
• Review of draft 2025-26 school calendar (information only, no vote)
• Monthly financial report for March 2024

The meeting consisted of spotlight reports recognizing student achievements and the designation of awareness months. No substantive policy decisions, budget approvals, or votes were recorded in the provided minutes.

Board Special Meeting

The Norwalk Board of Education holds a special meeting to vote on three Educational Specifications for facilities work: asbestos abatement at Fox Run Elementary, and removal of underground oil storage tanks at Brookside and Tracey Elementary (including boiler conversion to gas at Tracey). A work session will follow up on the mid-point strategic plan stock taking.

• Review & approval of Educational Specifications for asbestos abatement at Fox Run Elementary School
• Review & approval of Educational Specifications for removal of underground oil storage tank at Brookside Elementary School
• Review & approval of Educational Specifications for removal of underground oil storage tank and boiler igniter conversion from oil to gas at Tracey Elementary School
• Follow-up work session on mid-point strategic plan stock taking

The Board of Education unanimously approved educational specifications for asbestos abatement and oil tank removals at three elementary schools. The Board also approved a 2023 CABE Board of Distinction award application. A work session was held to review the Mid-Point Strategic Plan and district goals.

• Approved asbestos abatement project specifications at Fox Run Elementary School (unanimous)
• Approved removal of underground oil storage tank at Brookside Elementary School (unanimous)
• Approved 2023 CABE Board of Distinction award application (unanimous)

Board Workshop Meeting

This is a Norwalk Board of Education workshop meeting. The board will discuss the 'Portrait of a Graduate' initiative and the issue of disengaged youth. Public comments are limited to these workshop topics. No votes or decisions are scheduled.

• Worksession presentation on Portrait of a Graduate
• Worksession presentation on Disengaged Youth, including a report titled 'CT's Unspoken Crisis'
• Public comments accepted on workshop topics only via Zoom, YouTube, or email

The Board held a work session featuring presentations on the 'Portrait of a Graduate' competency framework and data regarding disconnected youth aged 14-26 in Connecticut. No formal votes or policy decisions were recorded during the session.

Facilities Committee Meeting

The Facilities Committee will consider three action items: approving educational specifications for asbestos abatement at Fox Run Elementary, removal of an underground oil storage tank at Brookside Elementary, and removal of an underground oil storage tank and boiler conversion from oil to gas at Tracey Elementary. Project updates for NHS/PTECH and SONO will also be presented. Public comments are accepted via email until 4pm.

• Review and possible approval of asbestos abatement project at Fox Run Elementary
• Review and possible approval of underground oil storage tank removal at Brookside Elementary
• Review and possible approval of underground oil storage tank removal and boiler conversion to gas at Tracey Elementary
• Project updates on NHS/PTECH and SONO schools
• Approval of minutes from February 28, 2024 and November 29, 2023 meetings

The committee approved educational specifications for asbestos abatement and oil tank removals at three elementary schools. Members also received construction updates for Cranbury Elementary, SONO, and NHS/PTECH.

• Approved minutes of November 29, 2023 and February 28, 2024 (Unanimous)
• Approved educational specifications for asbestos abatement at Fox Run Elementary School (Unanimous)
• Approved educational specifications for underground oil storage tank removal at Brookside Elementary School (Unanimous)
• Approved educational specifications for underground oil storage tank removal and boiler igniter conversion from oil to gas at Tracey Elementary School (Unanimous)

Board Business Meeting

The Board of Education is meeting to approve several district policies regarding artificial intelligence, student discipline, and internet safety. The body will also consider a 2024-25 interschool agreement with Side By Side Charter School and nutrition certifications for school food sales.

• Approval of CABE AI Policy/Regulation
• Approval of Student Discipline Policy 5021
• Approval of Student’s Use of the District’s Computer system and Internet Safety Policy 5025
• Approval of 2024-25 Full-Service Interschool Agreement with Side By Side Charter School
• Approval of Bullying Prevention and Intervention Policy 5003

The Board of Education unanimously approved several district policies, including student discipline and AI regulations. It also approved a charter school agreement and various healthy food certifications. A memorandum of understanding regarding charter school employment credit was also passed.

• Approved MOU with NFT regarding credit for Charter School employment (Unanimous)
• Approved CABE AI policy/regulation (Unanimous)
• Approved student discipline policy (Unanimous)
• Approved student's use of district computer system and internet safety policy (Unanimous)
• Approved use of private technology devices by students policy (Unanimous)
• Approved bullying prevention and intervention policy (Unanimous)
• Approved kindergarten policy (Unanimous)
• Approved 2024-25 full-service interschool agreement with Side by Side Charter School (Unanimous)

Policy Committee

The Norwalk Public Schools Policy Committee will meet to discuss and potentially take action on several policies, including alignment of procedures with policies, a bullying prevention and intervention policy, and a kindergarten admission policy. Public comments are accepted via email before the meeting.

• Review and possible action on Bullying Prevention and Intervention Policy (Policy 5003)
• Review and possible action on Kindergarten Admission policy (Policy 5033)
• Alignment of procedures/manual with existing policies
• Approval of minutes from February 8, 2024 Policy Committee meeting

The committee reviewed updates to the kindergarten policy regarding state law guidance and the bullying prevention policy regarding discrimination and harassment definitions. Both items were moved to the full board for further action.

• Approved minutes of Feb 8, 2024 (unanimous)
• Moved Kindergarten Policy to the full board (unanimous)
• Moved Bullying Prevention and Intervention Policy to the full board (unanimous)

Board Special Meeting

This special meeting of the Norwalk Board of Education includes a discussion on a confidential attorney-client communication regarding an employee matter, likely to move into executive session, followed by a vote on a revised Table of Organization recommended by the Superintendent.

• Discussion of confidential attorney-client communication on an employee matter (executive session anticipated)
• Vote on revised Table of Organization as recommended by the Superintendent

The Board entered into executive session to discuss a confidential employee matter. No actions were taken or motions made during the executive session.

• Approved motion to enter executive session to discuss personnel matters (Unanimous)

Finance Committee Meeting

The Norwalk Public Schools Finance Committee will review the year-to-date financial report for February 2024, consider approving budget transfers for 2023-24, and receive an update on the FY25 budget development. Public comments are accepted via email until 4 PM the day of the meeting. The committee may take action on the financial report and budget transfers.

• YTD Financial Report (February 2024)
• Budget Transfers for 2023-24 (March)
• Update on FY25 Budget Development
• Public Comments via email

The Finance Committee unanimously approved a series of budget transfers, including a shift of vacant custodian positions to an outside agency. The committee also reviewed the February 2024 Year to Date financial report and discussed the FY25 budget development timeline.

• Approved budget transfers as presented (unanimous)
• Tabled November 8, 2023 minutes to the next meeting (unanimous)

Curriculum & Instruction Committee Meeting

The committee will review the minutes from the January 23, 2024 meeting. The agenda also includes a social studies update for review and possible action.

• Social Studies Update

The committee met without a quorum, resulting in no formal approvals or votes. Members received a presentation on K-8 Social Studies curriculum updates, including new legislation and inquiry-based learning strategies.

Board Workshop Meeting

The Norwalk Public Schools Board will hold a workshop meeting to discuss the mid-point findings of the Strategic Plan Review, presented by Richard Lemons. Public comments are limited to workshop topics only. The meeting will be held at the NPS Family Center and accessible via Zoom and YouTube.

• Mid-Point Strategic Plan Review Findings presentation by Richard Lemons
• Public comments limited to workshop topics

The Board held a workshop session to review a 'Mid-Strategic Plan Stock Take Report' presented by Dr. Richard Lemons. The session focused on the district's progress regarding equity, excellence, and student readiness. No formal policy decisions were made during this workshop.

• Adjourned meeting (Unanimous)

CANCELLED: Personnel & Human Relations Committee

The Personnel & Human Relations Committee meeting scheduled for March 4, 2024, was cancelled. The agenda had included a grievance hearing with the Norwalk Federation of Teachers.

• Grievance Hearing with Norwalk Federation of Teachers (cancelled)

Facilities Committee Meeting

The Norwalk Public Schools Facilities Committee will meet to review and possibly act on school construction project updates for Cranbury School, Norwalk High School, and South Norwalk School. The agenda includes call to order, public comments (accepted by email until 4pm), and adjournment.

• School construction project updates for Cranbury School, Norwalk High School, and South Norwalk School
• Monthly project update PDFs attached to agenda item 2.A

The committee reviewed progress reports for Cranbury School, Norwalk High School, and South Norwalk School. No formal votes were taken on project approvals, as the meeting focused on status updates and timelines.

• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Board Workshop Meeting

The Norwalk Board of Education will hold a workshop meeting to receive mid-year departmental updates and discuss the district's strategic plan. Public comments are limited to workshop topics and may be submitted in person or by email. The board anticipates entering executive session for the strategic plan discussion.

• Mid-Year Updates by Department and Strategic Plan Priority (8,276 KB PDF attached)
• Public Comments on workshop topics only (in-person or via email, not read aloud)
• Strategic Plan Discussion with anticipated executive session

The Board of Education held a workshop to review progress on six strategic goals for the academic year. The session included presentations on curriculum updates, student enrollment increases, and the status of new school construction. No formal votes or policy decisions were recorded during this review meeting.

Board Special Meeting

The Norwalk Board of Education will hold a special meeting to consider the appointment of Kimberly Byrd-Carolina as Assistant Legal Counsel. The only action item is a resolution to approve her appointment upon the superintendent's recommendation.

• Appointment of Kimberly Byrd-Carolina as Assistant Legal Counsel

The Board of Education met to interview and appoint a new Assistant Legal Counsel. Following a review of qualifications and a discussion, the Board voted to appoint Atty. Byrd-Carolina to the position.

• Approved appointment of Atty. Byrd-Carolina for Assistant Legal Counsel (Unanimous)

MLL Curriculum Subcommittee

The subcommittee will discuss 2023-2024 Family Center registration and MLL data, professional learning opportunities, and upcoming Family Center workshops and events. This is an information-only meeting with no votes or decisions.

• Review of 2023-2024 Family Center Registration & MLL Data
• Discussion of Professional Learning Opportunities
• Celebrations update
• Family Center Workshops & Events

The committee reviewed Multilingual Learner (MLL) enrollment increases and kindergarten registration data. Staff presented professional learning opportunities and reported on Family Center services and events. No substantive policy or budget decisions were made.

• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

SpEd Curriculum Subcommittee Meeting

The subcommittee will review items related to special education curriculum. Discussion topics include an NSPEDPAC info-session and assistive technology with universal design supports.

• NSPEDPAC Info-session
• Assistive Technology and Universal Design supports

The subcommittee received an informational presentation on the revitalization of the Norwalk Special Education Advisory Council (SEAC) and an overview of assistive technology tools used in district schools. No substantive policy decisions or budget approvals were made.

• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

BOE Policy Committee

The Norwalk Board of Education Policy Committee will meet to review and possibly act on several policies, including a new AI framework for schools, student attendance and truancy regulations, student discipline, computer use and internet safety, and use of private technology devices by students. The meeting includes public comments via email.

• Review of draft AI Framework regulation/policy for schools
• Regulation update on student attendance, truancy and chronic absenteeism
• Review of student discipline policy (Series 5000)
• Review of student use of district computer systems and internet safety policy
• Review of policy on use of private technology devices by students

The Committee approved a new AI framework and amendments to three existing policies regarding student discipline, computer system use, and private device usage to address artificial intelligence. The board also reviewed updated regulations for student attendance and chronic absenteeism.

• Approved AI Framework Regulation/Policy (Unanimous)
• Approved amendments to Series 5000 - Student Discipline (Unanimous)
• Approved amendments to Series 5000 - Student's Use of the District's Computer System and Internet Safety (Unanimous)
• Approved amendments to Series 5000 - Use of Private Technology Devices by Students (Unanimous)
• Approved December 18, 2023 meeting minutes as corrected (Unanimous)

Board Business Meeting

The Norwalk Board of Education will vote on the 2024-2025 Program of Studies, several non-discrimination policies for community, employees, and students, and approve personnel actions, budget transfers, and student trips. The superintendent will present mid-year student data and leadership highlights. The board will also receive a monthly financial report and discuss an executive session on employee misconduct procedures.

• Vote on 2024-2025 Program of Studies
• Approval of Series 1000 Non-Discrimination (Community) Policy
• Approval of Series 4000 Family and Medical Leave Policy and Non-Discrimination (Employees) Policy
• Approval of Series 5000 Non-Discrimination (Students) Policy
• Approval of student trips: Japan Bowl in Washington DC, All-State Music Festival in Hartford, Barcelona (rescheduled), and NHS Band to Disney Parade in Orlando

The meeting consisted of administrative reports and public testimony. No substantive votes or policy decisions were recorded in the provided minutes.

Curriculum & Instruction Committee Meeting

The Curriculum & Instruction Committee is meeting to review and possibly act on the Program of Studies. The agenda includes public comments via email and a livestream option.

• Review and possible action on the Program of Studies

The committee reviewed updates to the Program of Studies, including new STEM, Humanities, and P-Tech courses. The committee unanimously voted to present the program to the full Board of Education at their next meeting.

• Moved to present Program of Studies to the full Board of Education (Unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (Unanimous)

Board Business Meeting

The Norwalk Public Schools Board will hold a virtual business meeting to vote on consent items including personnel actions and budget transfers for January. The board will also receive the superintendent's report on finance and the Future Ready program, and review a monthly financial report. Public comments will be accepted remotely or via email.

• Approval of personnel actions (January 2024 list)
• Approval of budget transfers for FY 2023-24
• Monthly financial report for December 2023
• Student spotlight: Norwalk Public Schools film 'Tough for a Girl' selected for Norwalk Film Festival
• Ponus Ridge STEAM Academy recognized in Samsung Solve for Tomorrow competition

The Board unanimously approved the personnel consent calendar and a budget transfer. Members received reports on the school-based budgeting process and the Future Ready program. Several residents provided public comments regarding the administrative leave of the Concord Magnet School principal.

• Approved minutes as corrected (Unanimous)
• Approved personnel consent vote as amended, with Steven Angelo removed (Unanimous)
• Approved budget transfer as presented (Unanimous)

JOINT BOE / Common Council Finance Committee Meeting

The Joint BOE and Common Council Finance Committee is meeting to review CFO presentations. The discussion focuses on guidelines for preparing FYE 2025 operating budgets and key issues impacting the BOE budget.

• Guidelines for Preparation of FYE 2025 Operating Budgets
• BOE key issues impacting FY 25 Operating Budget

The Common Council and Board of Education Finance Committees held a joint meeting to discuss the FY 2025 operating budget process. No formal votes were taken; the session served as a presentation of budget guidelines and the Board of Education's tentative budget request.

POSTPONED - TBD Board Workshop Meeting

This January 9, 2024 Board Workshop meeting of the Norwalk Public Schools has been postponed to a date to be determined. The agenda originally included a worksession on disengaged youth and public comments, but no decisions or discussions will occur at this canceled session.

• Meeting postponed, new date TBD
• Worksession on Disengaged Youth was scheduled but not held
• Public comments were to be taken but meeting canceled