Hartford Public Schools CT public meetings in 2021
73 substantive meetings from 2021, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.
Imported Meetings: 2018- 2025
The Board of Education approved two service contracts for student support and accepted over $1 million in state funds for student engagement. The meeting also included the approval of construction documents for Bulkeley High School.
- Approved Higher Heights contract up to $500,000 for college access services
- Approved RISE Network contract up to $104,035 for high school transformation
- Accepted $1,045,580 from the State's Learner Engagement and Attendance Program (LEAP)
- Approved construction documents for Bulkeley High School Phase 7 project
- First reading of new policies regarding student and personnel face masks
Finance & Audit Committee
The Finance & Audit Committee is reviewing four contracts and fund acceptances totaling over $1.8 million, including a $500,000 college access program and a $1,045,580 state grant for student engagement. They will also hear initial findings from a strategic assessment and receive updates on the budget and federal spending.
- Contract with Connecticut RISE Network for $104,035 (Jan–Jun 2022) to support 9th-grade on-track achievement at Bulkeley, Hartford High, Kinsella, and Weaver.
- Contract with Higher Heights Youth Empowerment Programs for $500,000 (Jan 2022–Jun 2023) for college prep services at Bulkeley, Hartford High, and Weaver.
- Acceptance of $1,045,580 in LEAP funds from CREC for absenteeism and engagement support.
- Contract with Quadient/Neopost for $201,279 (Jan 2022–Dec 2026) to upgrade 38 postage meters.
- Initial findings from a strategic assessment and financial sustainability project.
Family & Community Engagement Committee
The Family & Community Engagement Committee is meeting virtually to consider accepting $1,045,580 in state funding for the Learner Engagement and Attendance Program (LEAP), which targets students struggling with absenteeism. The committee will also receive updates on School Governance Councils, the Family & Caregiver Academy, the Welcome Center, and Title I funds.
- Acceptance of $1,045,580 in LEAP funds from CREC
- School Governance Councils update
- Family & Caregiver Academy update
- Monthly Welcome Center report
- Title I funds update
Imported Meetings: 2018- 2025
The Hartford Public Schools Board held a workshop/special meeting on December 7, 2021. The board received an update on the DME (District Management/Effectiveness) Standard Operating Procedure implementation, including a closer look at a specific strategy. The board then voted unanimously to enter and later exit executive session regarding a personnel matter concerning Superintendent Dr. Torres-Rodriguez, and adjourned.
- Workshop discussion: DME SOP implementation update and closer look at a specific strategy (Part 1)
- Motion passed to enter executive session on personnel matter regarding Superintendent Dr. Torres-Rodriguez
- Motion passed to exit executive session
- Motion passed to adjourn
Policy Committee
The Hartford Public Schools Policy Committee is holding a virtual first reading of several mandated policies, including immunizations, face masks for students and staff, and attendance. These are initial reviews, not final decisions.
- First reading of immunization policy 5153/5141.3
- First reading of student face mask policy 5141.8
- First reading of staff face mask policy 4118.237/4218.237
- First reading of revised attendance policy 5113
School Choice & Facilities Committee
The School Choice & Facilities Committee is reviewing and discussing the approval of Bulkeley High School Phase 7 construction documents (core, shell, and interiors) for State Project #064-0313 RNV, with renovations scheduled for completion by Fall 2024-2025. The committee will also receive updates on HPS & RSCO school choice planning for 2022-23, facilities/construction (including Weaver Fire Code), and a review of the RFP for the transportation contract.
- Approval of Bulkeley High School Phase 7 Construction Documents (Core, Shell, & Interiors)
- Bulkeley High School State Project #064-0313 RNV and Central Administration State Project #064-0314 BE
- Renovations scheduled for completion by Fall 2024-2025 school year
- 2022-23 HPS & RSCO School Choice Planning update
- Review of RFP for Transportation Contract
Teaching & Learning Committee
The Teaching & Learning Committee is reviewing two contracts to support high school students. The items include a contract with RISE Network for 9th grade achievement and a contract with Higher Heights Youth Empowerment Programs for college access services.
- $104,035 contract with RISE Network for 9th grade transition support
- $500,000 contract with Higher Heights Youth Empowerment Programs, Inc. for college access
- Review of Fall Academic Data regarding ELA, iReady, Reading Plus, and Insight
Imported Meetings: 2018- 2025
The Hartford Board of Education is meeting to vote on several contracts funded by federal ESSER dollars, including a $3.28 million virtual tutoring service and a $217,127 talent management partnership. Committee reports also cover construction updates, bus driver shortages, and school choice timelines. The board approved all four contracts on the business agenda.
- Approved $3,277,500 contract with Intervene K-12 for virtual tutoring, funded by ESSER
- Approved $217,127 contract with The New Teacher Project for talent management
- Approved $136,000 contract with DilingerRAD for Data Wise process support
- Approved $600,000 amendment to Cumberland Therapy paraeducator contract
- Discussed Bulkeley High School phase six construction and Burns School start in January 2022
Finance & Audit Committee
The Hartford Public Schools Finance & Audit Committee is reviewing several contracts funded by federal ESSER dollars, including a $3,277,500 virtual tutoring service, a $217,127 teacher-hiring partnership, and a $136,000 data-management agreement. The committee will also discuss a contract amendment for Cumberland Therapy, receive updates on financial sustainability work with ERS, review the year-to-date budget through September 2021, and monitor ESSER II and ARP spending.
- Contract: Intervene K-12 virtual tutoring, $3,277,500, Nov 29 2021 - Jun 30 2022, ESSER funds
- Contract: The New Teacher Project (TNTP), $217,127, Nov 17 2021 - May 31 2022, ESSER funds
- Contract: DillingerRAD data management, $136,000, Nov 17 2021 - Jun 30 2023, ESSER funds
- Contract amendment discussion: Cumberland Therapy
- Update: Financial Sustainability work with ERS; YTD budget report through Sept 2021
Family & Community Engagement Committee
The Family & Community Engagement Committee is meeting virtually to receive updates and discuss several items, including the monthly Welcome Center report, School Governance Councils, OFCP events, the family engagement events calendar, and a Title I funds update. All items are listed as informational or discussion items, with no votes or decisions indicated on the agenda.
- Monthly Welcome Center Report (October 2021) with intake comparison graphs
- School Governance Councils Update including budget development steps
- OFCP Events update
- Family Engagement Events Calendar discussion
- Title I Funds Update discussion
Policy Committee
The Hartford Public Schools Policy Committee is meeting virtually to review policy updates, including re-codified policies and legislative updates. The agenda includes a presentation attachment. No specific decisions or details are provided in the agenda text.
- Review of re-codified policies
- Legislative update policies
- Presentation: Policy Committee PPT 11.1.2021.pdf (490 KB)
School Choice & Facilities Committee
The Hartford Public Schools School Choice & Facilities Committee is meeting virtually to receive updates on school choice planning, facilities and construction (including a fire code matter at Weaver), and transportation. No votes or decisions are listed; the agenda consists of informational updates.
- HPS & RSCO School Choice Planning update
- Facilities/Construction update, including Weaver Fire Code
- Transportation update
Teaching & Learning Committee
The Teaching & Learning Committee is meeting virtually to discuss items for the regular meeting, including a TNTP (OTM) item, a K-12 intervention priority with high-dosage tutoring, and an overview of TEVAL (teacher evaluation). These are agenda items for discussion or action.
- TNTP (OTM) item
- Intervene K-12 priority with high-dosage tutoring
- TEVAL overview
Imported Meetings: 2018- 2025
The Hartford Board of Education is meeting to hear reports from committees and vote on several contracts. The board approved contracts for Hartford Parent University ($232,800), TNTP ($111,235), and Blue Hills Civic Association ($285,000) for family engagement and community school programs. The agenda also includes reports on enrollment, transportation, facilities, and policy discussions.
- Contract approval: Hartford Parent University, $232,800, for family learning sessions and outreach in 8 schools
- Contract approval: TNTP, $111,235, for Parent Educator Academy planning
- Contract approval: Blue Hills Civic Association, $285,000, for community school partnership at Weaver High School
- Report: 517 new student registrations in September; discussion on school choice vs. enrollment period
- Report: Facilities completed $1,970,993.41 of $2,000,000 Alliance Grant projects
Finance & Audit Committee
The Hartford Public Schools Finance & Audit Committee met virtually on October 13, 2021, to review several contracts funded by federal ESSER dollars. The agenda includes authorizing a $285,000 contract with Blue Hills Civic Association for after-school programming at Weaver High School. Other items involve partnerships with The New Teacher Project, Hartford Parent University, and ReadyCT, along with updates on the 2022-23 budget calendar and federal fund spending.
- Contract with Blue Hills Civic Association for $285,000 to provide after-school programming at Weaver High School (Oct 2021 - July 2022)
- Contract with The New Teacher Project (TNTP) for $111,235 to facilitate planning for a Parent Educator Academy (Oct 2021 - April 2022)
- Hartford Parent University partnership valued at $232,800 for family learning sessions in eight schools
- ReadyCT contract for $246,980 to manage Leadership and Public Service and Computer Science pathways at Bulkeley High School
- Acceptance of $2,802,300 in Adult Education Grants, including $110,228 for Literacy Volunteers of Greater Hartford
Imported Meetings: 2018- 2025
The Hartford Public Schools Board is holding a virtual workshop/special meeting. The main discussion item is a workshop on 'Reimagining the Teacher Role Experience,' with a related PDF attachment. The board will also enter and exit executive session to discuss a personnel matter concerning Superintendent Dr. Torres-Rodriguez, followed by adjournment.
- Workshop discussion: Reimagining the Teacher Role Experience
- Executive session on personnel matter - Superintendent Dr. Torres-Rodriguez
- Motion to enter executive session
- Motion to exit executive session
- Motion to adjourn
Policy Committee
The Hartford Public Schools Policy Committee is meeting virtually to review and discuss several policies. The main items are a graduation policy, en masse policy updates, and a discussion on the discipline policy, including conduct and weapons policies.
- Review of Graduation Policy (HPS 6140) with regulations
- En masse policy updates review
- Discussion of Discipline Policy (5131 - Conduct and Discipline)
- Review of Weapons and Dangerous Instruments policy (5133)
Family & Community Engagement Committee
The Family & Community Engagement Committee is reviewing three contracts totaling $629,035 for family engagement programs, including Hartford Parent University, The New Teacher Project, and Blue Hills Civic Association. The committee will also receive updates on the Welcome Center, School Governance Councils, and family learning sessions, and discuss the Community Schools strategy.
- Contract with Hartford Parent University for $232,800 (Sept 2021–June 2022) for family learning sessions and outreach in 8 schools
- Contract with The New Teacher Project (TNTP) for $111,235 (Oct 2021–April 2022) to plan a Parent Educator Academy
- Contract with Blue Hills Civic Association for $285,000 (Oct 2021–July 2022) for a Community School Partnership at Weaver High School
- Monthly Welcome Center report with end-of-year and September intake data
- School Governance Councils update and family learning sessions overview
School Choice & Facilities Committee
The School Choice & Facilities Committee is meeting virtually to receive updates on facilities and construction, including a fire code issue at Weaver High School, enrollment reporting for October 1, school choice planning for Hartford Public Schools and the Regional School Choice Office (RSCO), and transportation. The agenda consists of informational updates rather than votes or decisions.
- Facilities/Construction Update including Weaver Fire Code (2019 Fire Alarm report attached)
- October 1 Enrollment Reporting
- HPS & RSCO School Choice Planning
- Transportation Update
Teaching & Learning Committee
The Teaching & Learning Committee will consider accepting two adult education grants and discuss the ReadyCT program for career pathways at Bulkeley High School. The agenda also includes an informational discussion on the district's academic MTSS framework.
- Acceptance of Adult Education Cooperating Eligible Entity Grant: Urban League $6,076, Literacy Volunteers of Greater Hartford $110,228
- ReadyCT program: $246,980 from ESSER special funds, October 2021-June 2022, for Leadership and Public Service and new Computer Science pathways at Bulkeley High School
- Discussion of HPS MTSS Framework (Academic)
Imported Meetings: 2018- 2025
The Board of Education convened a virtual retreat to discuss internal processes. The agenda focused on reviewing the committee process and discussing board meeting decorum.
- Committee Process Review discussion
- Board Meeting Decorum discussion
- Review of Old Business
Imported Meetings: 2018- 2025
The Hartford Board of Education will hold a regular meeting with reports from committees and action on several contracts. The board will vote on contract amendments for Qualtrics services and other items, and will discuss a policy audit, graduation requirements, and school updates.
- Contract amendment for Qualtrics Services, $54,500, funded by ESSER
- Contracts for ReVISION Learning, UConn Athletic Trainers, IIRP, Language Line
- Policy audit: 21 policies need modification, 19 mandated policies missing
- Graduation credit requirement for class of 2022 possibly kept at 24 credits
- Enrollment at 17,521; attendance 83-85%
Finance & Audit Committee
The Hartford Public Schools Finance & Audit Committee is reviewing several contracts and grants, including a $120,000 language interpretation service, a $232,800 parent university program, a $123,335 restorative practices contract, and a $3,035,624 school improvement grant. They will also discuss budget transfers, the 2020-21 end-of-year report, preliminary surplus, and monthly budget updates.
- Language Line Services contract: $120,000 for over-the-phone interpretation in 240+ languages
- Hartford Parent University partnership: $232,800 for family learning sessions in 8 schools
- International Institute of Restorative Practices contract: $123,335
- School Improvement Grant: $3,035,624 total, with allocations to Weaver ($500,000), SMSA ($500,000), Milner ($425,324), MLK ($425,000), Burns ($405,300), SAND ($390,000), Wish ($390,000)
- Qualtrics contract amendment: additional $5,000 for HIPAA-compliant module, total $54,600
Policy Committee
The Hartford Public Schools Policy Committee is meeting virtually to review an audit report, establish a policy timeline, and discuss a graduation policy. The audit report review is informational and for discussion, while the other items have no specified type.
- Audit report review (informational, discussion)
- Establish policy timeline
- Graduation policy discussion
Family & Community Engagement Committee
The Family & Community Engagement Committee is reviewing three contracts totaling $464,035 for the 2021-22 school year: Language Line interpretation services, Hartford Parent University, and TNTP's Parent Educator Academy planning. The committee will also receive reports on the Welcome Center, School Governance Councils, and family learning sessions, and discuss the Superintendent's Family and Community Advisory Board.
- Language Line contract: $120,000 for over-the-phone interpretation in 240+ languages, Sept 2021-June 2022
- Hartford Parent University contract: $232,800 for family learning sessions and outreach in 8 schools (Bulkeley, HPHS, Weaver, Burr, MLK, McDonough, Parkville, Sanchez)
- TNTP contract: $111,235 to facilitate planning for a Parent Educator Academy, Oct 2021-April 2022
- Monthly Welcome Center report for end of year and July/August
- School Governance Councils update and Family and Community Advisory Board discussion
Imported Meetings: 2018- 2025
The Hartford Board of Education held a special virtual meeting on September 7, 2021. The board voted to approve two contracts: one with the University of Connecticut for athletic trainers at $52,140 and one with ReVISION Learning for instructional support at Hartford Public High School for $172,000. The board also discussed results from state summative assessments (Smarter Balanced, NGSS, and P/SAT).
- Contract approval: UConn athletic trainers, $52,140, General Funds, through June 30, 2022
- Contract approval: ReVISION Learning, $172,000, through June 30, 2022, for Hartford Public High School instructional leadership
- Discussion: State summative assessment results (Smarter Balanced, NGSS, P/SAT)
School Choice & Facilities Committee
The School Choice & Facilities Committee is meeting to receive updates regarding the Office of Enrollment & School Choice, transportation, and facilities/construction. The agenda items are categorized under Priority 4: Skillful Staff & Effective Operations.
- Office of Enrollment & School Choice update
- Transportation update
- Facilities/Construction update
Teaching & Learning Committee
The Hartford Public Schools Teaching & Learning Committee is meeting virtually to discuss several contracts and programs. Items include a $172,000 ReVISION Learning contract for instructional leadership at HPHS, a $123,335 restorative practices training contract with IIRP, a $52,140 UConn athletic trainer contract, and spring 2021 culture and climate survey results.
- $172,000 ReVISION Learning contract for HPHS Instructional Leadership Team support
- $123,335 IIRP contract for restorative practices training for staff
- $52,140 UConn athletic trainer contract
- Spring 2021 Culture & Climate Survey results discussion
Imported Meetings: 2018- 2025
The Hartford Board of Education met to review various contracts and a major grant application. The board voted to authorize the Superintendent to apply for the Teacher and School Leader (TSL) Grant.
- Authorization of $4.93 million Teacher and School Leader (TSL) Grant application
- $400,000 contract for Ed Pioneers Impact Fellowship (5 fellows)
- Review of Community Schools Contracts including Boys & Girls Club, Career Resources, Catholic Charities, and The Village for Families and Children
- Discussion regarding ANet and OPP contracts
Imported Meetings: 2018- 2025
The Hartford Public Schools Committee of the Whole is reviewing contracts for the August regular meeting, including a construction project at Bulkeley High School and a $95,910 contract with the College Board for PSAT/SAT testing. The board will also receive an update on the Return to Learn plan and discuss the finance committee flow.
- Bulkeley High School Phase VI construction contract (foundations, structural steel, sitework) for State Project #064-0313 RNV
- College Board contract for PSAT/NMSQT and SAT School Day scoring, $95,910 funded by Alliance Grant
- Return to Learn update presentation
- Discussion of Finance Committee flow and progress monitoring calendar
Imported Meetings: 2018- 2025
The Board of Education and Cabinet held a virtual retreat for discussion and information. The agenda focused on reviewing data, strategic plan metrics, and the Return to Learn Plan.
- First reading of Graduation Policy
- Discussion of Federal Teacher & Leader Incentive Grant Application
- Review of Three Year Strategic Operating Plan Metrics
- Review of Return to Learn Plan
Imported Meetings: 2018- 2025
The Hartford Board of Education approved an application for $98.5 million in American Recovery Act (ARP) funding to support pandemic recovery. The board also passed several contracts for professional development and instructional support, and confirmed two administrative appointments.
- Authorization of $98.5 million ARP grant application
- Appointment of Tiffani Curtis as Chief Talent Officer at $180,000 salary
- Appointment of Darpan Patel as Principal at Betances Learning Lab at $137,218 salary
- Contract with LINCspring for $253,300.00
- Contract with Education Resource Strategies (ERS) for $315,000.00
Imported Meetings: 2018- 2025
The Hartford Public Schools Committee of the Whole is meeting virtually to review contracts for the upcoming July 20 regular meeting and to discuss the district's ESSER III (federal pandemic relief) application. This is a discussion and information session, not a final decision-making meeting.
- Contract list for the 7/20/21 Regular Meeting (146 KB attachment)
- ESSER III application review (discussion/information item, 735 KB presentation attachment)
Imported Meetings: 2018- 2025
The Hartford Public Schools Board of Education is meeting virtually for a retreat. The agenda includes discussions on the board's core beliefs and commitments, as well as its theory of action. No formal decisions or votes are listed.
- Discussion of Core Beliefs and Commitments
- Discussion of Theory of Action
Imported Meetings: 2018- 2025
The Hartford Board of Education approved a $606,350 application for the Public School Security Infrastructure Competitive Grant Program to upgrade video surveillance at 11 schools. The board also authorized a $96,268 contract with the Connecticut RISE Network to support Grade 9 student achievement through December 2021. Committee reports discussed enrollment projections showing a potential drop of 2,200 students by 2030 and proposed changes to graduation credit requirements.
- Approved $606,350 grant application for video surveillance upgrades at 11 schools including Betances, Kennelly, and Kinsella
- Authorized $96,268 contract with RISE Network funded by the Barr Foundation for high school transformation efforts
- Discussed proposal to reduce graduation credits from 25 to a lower amount or allow flexibility due to pandemic impacts
- Reviewed enrollment projections indicating approximately 2,200 fewer students in the district by 2030
Policy Committee
The Hartford Public Schools Policy Committee is meeting virtually to discuss and review board bylaws. The agenda includes an ongoing review of the bylaws and a section for old business, indicating a routine administrative meeting with no specific decisions or proposals listed.
- Ongoing review of board bylaws
- Old business discussion
Imported Meetings: 2018- 2025
The Hartford Board of Education held a special meeting on June 4, 2021, and approved a contract with Effective School Solutions (ESS) for up to $1,563,000, funded by ESSER II special funds, to strengthen the district's mental health support continuum. The board also voted to adjourn.
- Approved contract with Effective School Solutions for $1,563,000, ending June 30, 2022
- Funding source: Special Funds (ESSER II)
- Contract aims to expand mental health services and support Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS)
- Motion passed unanimously (5 ayes)
Family & Community Engagement Committee
The Family & Community Engagement Committee is meeting virtually to discuss reports on the Welcome Center, School Governance Councils, and family learning sessions. They will also discuss translation services for families at the school level. The agenda consists of informational reports and discussions, with no votes or decisions listed.
- Monthly Welcome Center Report (May 2021)
- School Governance Councils Report (May data)
- Family Learning Sessions update and planning
- Discussion on translation for families at the school level
School Choice & Facilities Committee
The Hartford Public Schools School Choice & Facilities Committee is meeting virtually to discuss and review the design of Bulkeley High School, educational specifications and construction grant approvals for McDonough, Moylan, and Parkville schools, and enrollment projections. These items are informational or discussion items, not final decisions.
- Bulkeley High School design review (informational discussion)
- Ed specs and construction grant approval for McDonough, Moylan, and Parkville schools
- Enrollment projections discussion
Imported Meetings: 2018- 2025
This is a workshop meeting of the Hartford Public Schools board, held at Weaver High School. The main item is a discussion and information session on the SGC Annual Forum. The meeting opens with a call to order and closes with a motion to adjourn.
- Discussion of SGC Annual Forum
- Meeting held at Weaver High School, 415 Granby Street
Teaching & Learning Committee
The Teaching & Learning Committee is meeting virtually to discuss three items: a $96,268 contract with the Connecticut RISE Network for high school transformation support from July to December 2021, an update on the strategic plan, and an update on graduation rates. The RISE contract is for informational and discussion purposes, and the strategic plan and graduation rates updates are also informational.
- RISE contract: $96,268 for July-December 2021, supporting Grade 9 on-track achievement at Bulkeley, Hartford High, Kinsella, and Weaver
- RISE work funded primarily by Barr Foundation through June 2023
- Strategic Plan Update (presentation attached)
- Graduation Rates Update
Imported Meetings: 2018- 2025
The Hartford Board of Education will vote on several action items, including a $1,563,000 contract with Effective School Solutions for mental health services and a $50,000 grant application for school-based healthcare. Committee reports cover summer school plans, construction updates, and a reduction in federal COVID relief funds. The ESS contract motion failed, while the grant application passed.
- Contract with Effective School Solutions for $1,563,000 (ESSER II funds) failed (3 ayes, 4 abstentions)
- Approved application for School-Based Healthcare Solutions Network Grant ($50,000)
- Approved $40,000 amendment to Language Line contract
- American Rescue Plan funds reduced from $127M to $98M
- Construction projects (Wish, Kennelly, Betances) may face delays due to city finances
Finance & Audit Committee
The Finance & Audit Committee is reviewing several funding items, including a $50,000-per-year mental health grant, a $2.2 million E-Rate technology request, and a contract amendment for translation services. They will also receive updates on the monthly budget, COVID spending, and the American Rescue Plan.
- School-Based Healthcare Solutions Network Grant: up to $50,000/year for mental health professionals
- E-Rate Category 1 request: $785,160 for fiber and internet, 90% reimbursed
- E-Rate Category 2 request: $1,422,704 for wireless and cabling, 85% reimbursed
- Language Line contract amendment: increase of $40,000 to cover translation services
- Monthly budget report for March 2021 and COVID spending update
Imported Meetings: 2018- 2025
The Hartford Public Schools board is holding a special virtual meeting to take action on two items: the schematic design for Burns School and a contract with Effective School Solutions (ESS) for mental health services. The ESS contract, funded with $1,563,000 from ESSER II funds, aims to strengthen the district's mental health support continuum.
- Burns School schematic design action
- ESS contract for mental health services
- Contract amount: $1,563,000
- Funding source: ESSER II Funds
Family & Community Engagement Committee
The Family & Community Engagement Committee is meeting virtually to discuss family outreach, receive reports on the Welcome Center and School Governance Councils, and plan family learning sessions and an SGC showcase. The agenda also includes a discussion on the family experience with the school choice process. Most items are informational or discussion-only, with no votes or contracts listed.
- Monthly Welcome Center Report (May 3, 2021) with April narrative and graph
- School Governance Councils Report (April 29, 2021 update)
- Family Learning Sessions update and planning
- SGC Showcase update and planning
- Discussion of Family Experience - Choice Process
Imported Meetings: 2018- 2025
The Hartford Public Schools Board of Education is holding a virtual workshop meeting to discuss the Three Year Strategic Operating Plan for 2021-2024. The agenda includes a presentation and discussion of the plan, followed by a motion to adjourn. No formal decisions are scheduled; the meeting is for information and discussion only.
- Discussion of the Three Year Strategic Operating Plan (2021-2024)
- Presentation of the HPS 3 Year Strategic Operating Plan PPT 2021-24
- Motion to adjourn the meeting
School Choice & Facilities Committee
The School Choice & Facilities Committee is meeting to receive information and hold discussions on several district updates. Topics include the Burns renovation, RSCO lottery details, and district selection processes.
- Burns Renovation discussion
- RSCO Lottery Update
- District Selection Process Update
- Health and Safety facilities update
- School Construction Project Update
Teaching & Learning Committee
The Hartford Public Schools Teaching & Learning Committee is meeting virtually to discuss several informational items, including a potential grant from School-Based Healthcare Solutions Network, Inc. that could provide up to $50,000 per year to support mental health services on school campuses. The committee will also receive updates on the district calendar, summer school programs, and a proposed African American/Black and Puerto Rican/Latino course.
- Grant of up to $50,000 per year (up to $5,000 per school) for student services and mental health professionals
- District calendar update
- Summer school update with presentation
- African American/Black and Puerto Rican/Latino course presentation
Imported Meetings: 2018- 2025
The Hartford Public Schools Board of Education is holding a regular meeting with public comment, reports from the chair and superintendent, and committee reports. The Teaching & Learning Committee will present the 2021-22 district calendar for adoption and a report on diversifying the educator workforce. Other committees will report on school choice lottery results, facilities updates, and policy reviews.
- Adoption of 2021-22 district calendar and proposed intersession calendar (Winter: Feb 22-25; Spring: Apr 11-14)
- Report on diversifying educator workforce, including recruitment initiatives and leadership pipeline
- RSCO lottery update: 11,671 total applications, placement notifications mid-April
- Facilities update: MERV 13 filters, air purifiers, added 869 students to transportation
- Policy first reading: adding 'City' to Policy #3210 on State and Federal Funds
Imported Meetings: 2018- 2025
The Hartford Board of Education held a special meeting to vote on a resolution authorizing the Superintendent to submit an application for the Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) Fund II, in the amount of $45.7 million. The motion passed unanimously with six votes in favor. The meeting then adjourned.
- Resolution authorizing Superintendent to submit ESSER II application for $45.7 million
- Motion passed with 6 ayes: Ayesha Clarke, Craig Stallings, Karen Taylor, Kimberly Oliver, Shonta Browdy, Philip Rigueur
- Special meeting held virtually on April 15, 2021
Finance & Audit Committee
The Finance & Audit Committee is meeting virtually to discuss the MARB update, review the monthly budget report for February 2021, and receive an update on ESSER II federal funding. The agenda is primarily informational and discussion-focused, with no votes or decisions listed.
- Monthly budget report for February 2021, including general, special, and other funds
- COVID-related funding status as of February 28, 2021
- ESSER II funding update (60-minute discussion)
Family & Community Engagement Committee
The Family & Community Engagement Committee will hold a virtual meeting to discuss several informational updates. The agenda includes reviews of the Monthly Welcome Center Report, Family Learning Sessions, and School Governance Councils.
- Healthy Food Certification discussion
- Monthly Welcome Center Report review
- Family Learning Sessions update
- Project Joy information
- School Governance Councils discussion
Imported Meetings: 2018- 2025
This is a workshop meeting of the Hartford Public Schools board to discuss ESSER II funding. The agenda includes a presentation and discussion of the funds, followed by a motion to adjourn. No formal decisions are scheduled.
- Discussion of ESSER II Funds
- Motion to adjourn meeting
Policy Committee
The Hartford Public Schools Policy Committee is meeting virtually to conduct an ongoing review of board bylaws. The agenda includes this review as an informational and discussion item, followed by old business. No specific decisions or proposals are listed.
- Ongoing review of board bylaws (informational, discussion)
- Old business
Teaching & Learning Committee
The Hartford Public Schools Teaching & Learning Committee is meeting virtually to discuss two items: an update on the 2021-2022 district-wide school year calendar, and efforts to diversify the educator workforce. Both items are listed as informational/discussion topics, with no votes or decisions indicated on the agenda.
- 2021-2022 HPS District Wide School Year Calendar update
- Diversifying the Educator Workforce presentation
- Teacher recruitment materials attached
- Leadership Pathway brochure attached
Imported Meetings: 2018- 2025
The Hartford Board of Education is meeting to take action on administrative and contract items, including appointing a new Chief Financial Officer and approving a communications platform contract. Committee reports cover arts and wellness programs, student support centers, and freshmen academies. The board will also hear public comment and receive reports from the chair and superintendent.
- Approve Phillip Penn as Chief Financial Officer, salary $190,000, effective June 15, 2021
- Approve Parent Square contract, not to exceed $104,700, ending June 30, 2022
- Review RISE contract and 2021-22 school calendar (first reading)
- Discuss opening a Student Success Center at Weaver High School
- Contract amendment for Capital Community College, additional $7,638
Finance & Audit Committee
The Finance & Audit Committee is meeting virtually to discuss contracts for RISE, Parent Square, and Education Elements, and to consider a $7,638 amendment to a Capital Community College contract. They will also receive updates on COVID funding, ESSER, contingency plans, and the monthly budget report.
- Contract amendment for Capital Community College: $7,638, new total $100,328
- Discussion of RISE contract
- Informational discussion on Parent Square
- Informational discussion on Education Elements
- COVID funding and ESSER updates
Family & Community Engagement Committee
The Family & Community Engagement Committee is meeting virtually to discuss the ParentSquare communication platform and receive updates on the Welcome Center, family learning sessions, Project Joy, disconnected students, and School Governance Councils. All items are informational or discussion items; no votes are scheduled.
- ParentSquare communication platform presentation and discussion
- Monthly Welcome Center report
- Family Learning Sessions update
- Project Joy update
- School Governance Councils update
Policy Committee
The Policy Committee met virtually to conduct an ongoing review of the Board Bylaws. The agenda also included a session for old business.
- Ongoing review of Board Bylaws
School Choice & Facilities Committee
The School Choice & Facilities Committee meeting scheduled for March 2, 2021, has been cancelled. The agenda items listed (enrollment and school choice update, facilities update, and community inquiries) were not discussed.
- Meeting cancelled
- Office of Enrollment & School Choice Update (not held)
- Facilities Update (not held)
- Community Inquiries (not held)
Imported Meetings: 2018- 2025
The Hartford Public Schools Board of Education held a special meeting to vote on the adoption of the FY 2021-22 budget. The board approved the $423,946,214 itemized estimate of expenditures, effective July 1, 2021, with one member voting against. The budget allocates funds to schools and students, central office, and centralized supports.
- Adopted FY 2021-22 budget of $423,946,214
- Schools and Students: $371,217,425 (87.6%)
- Central Office and Centralized School & Student Supports: $52,728,789 (12.4%)
- General Fund: $284,013,274; Special Funds: $139,932,940
- Vote: 5 ayes, 1 nay (Shonta Browdy)
Teaching & Learning Committee
The Teaching & Learning Committee is meeting virtually to discuss a $96,268 contract with the Connecticut RISE Network to support Grade 9 on-track achievement at Bulkeley, Hartford High, Kinsella, and Weaver high schools from January to June 2021. The agenda also includes informational and discussion items on art and music programs, Student Success Centers, Freshmen Academies, and follow-up items from previous meetings.
- RISE Contract: $96,268 for Grade 9 on-track support at Bulkeley, Hartford High, Kinsella, Weaver (Jan–Jun 2021)
- Art & Music Overview presentation
- Student Success Centers refresher and update
- Freshmen Academies refresher and update
- Follow-up items discussion
Imported Meetings: 2018- 2025
The Hartford Board of Education held a public hearing on the 2021-22 budget, followed by an organizational meeting and reports from committees. The board also voted on several action items, including appointing a new Chief Operating Officer and approving community school contracts.
- Public hearing on 2021-22 budget
- Appointment of Sherri Davis-Googe as Chief Operating Officer at $170,000 salary
- Contract approval with Catholic Charities at McDonough Middle School for $150,000
- Contract approvals for community schools (The Village at SAND, COMPASS at HMTCA) and Language Line
- Discussion of ESSER round 2 funds and Weaver success center
Finance & Audit Committee
The Finance & Audit Committee of Hartford Public Schools is meeting virtually to review a list of contracts for the regular meeting, discuss follow-up items from a budget workshop, receive updates on COVID-related funding and the 2020-21 forecast, and review the monthly budget report. The meeting is primarily informational and discussion-focused, with no final votes scheduled.
- Contract List - February 2021.pdf
- Board Budget Follow Up Questions.pdf
- Exhibit A - Percent of Spend.pdf
- Exhibit B - FY 21-22 Budget (Art, Music, PE FTE's).pdf
- ESSER II.pdf
Imported Meetings: 2018- 2025
The Hartford Public Schools Board of Education is holding a virtual retreat. The agenda includes a discussion on core beliefs and commitments, which is listed as a discussion/information item. No decisions or votes are scheduled.
- Discussion of Core Beliefs and Commitments
Family & Community Engagement Committee
The Family & Community Engagement Committee is meeting virtually to review contracts for family resource centers, language services, and community schools, and to receive updates on the Welcome Center, unaccounted students, and the Office of Family & Community Partnerships. The agenda includes informational reports and discussions, with no final votes scheduled.
- Contracts for FRCs, Language Line, and Community Schools (Catholic Charities, The Village, COMPASS)
- Monthly Welcome Center Report for January 2021
- Update on Students Unaccounted For
- Office of Family & Community Partnerships (OFCP) Overview presentation
- School Governance Council (SGC) and PTO update with February data
Teaching & Learning Committee
The Teaching & Learning Committee is reviewing a contract amendment for Crock Leadership Associates to support Hartford Public Schools' Post-Secondary Planning Action Plan, Phase 3. The amendment adds $36,000, bringing the total to $62,400, which exceeds $50,000 when combined with a separate contract. The committee will also receive informational updates on the Barr Grant and Hartford History curriculum.
- Contract amendment for Crock Leadership Associates: $36,000 addition, new total $62,400
- Crock Leadership Associates to support Post-Secondary Planning Action Plan Phase 3
- Barr Grant refresher presentation (informational)
- Hartford History and Curriculum discussion
Imported Meetings: 2018- 2025
The Hartford Public Schools Board is holding a virtual workshop meeting to discuss the proposed 2021-22 budget. The agenda includes a presentation and discussion of the budget, with supporting documents attached. The meeting is scheduled to conclude with a motion to adjourn.
- Discussion of the 2021-22 proposed budget
- Review of HPS Budget Book for 2021-2022
- Budget workshop presentation
Human Resources Committee (Ad Hoc)
The Hartford Public Schools Human Resources Committee is meeting virtually to discuss the hiring process. The agenda contains only this single item, with no attached documents or further details provided.
- Discussion of hiring process
Imported Meetings: 2018- 2025
The Hartford Board of Education is holding a regular meeting with procedural items, public comment, and reports from the chair and superintendent. The board will vote on two contracts: a $86,985 amendment with UPD Consulting and a $66,000 contract with Rocket Inc. for staff training. The agenda also includes detailed reports from committee meetings on school transitions, a fall learning survey, grading changes, and budget previews.
- Contract amendment with UPD Consulting for $86,985 (ESSER funds)
- Contract approval with Rocket Inc. for $66,000 (Commissioner's Network funds)
- Fall Learning Experience Survey results (28% response rate)
- Grading changes: midterm exams canceled for 2020-21
- School transitions: Renzulli Academy and Adult Education relocated
Imported Meetings: 2018- 2025
The Hartford Public Schools Committee of the Whole is meeting virtually to discuss and review several contracts, including a $37,120 increase for UPD Consulting and a $66,000 contract with Rocket Inc. for behavior training. They will also consider accepting donations from Stanley Black & Decker ($200,000) and Barr ($500,000), and preview the 2020-21 budget and a finance software demo.
- Increase of $37,120 for UPD Consulting (new total $86,985) for continuous improvement support
- $66,000 contract with Rocket Inc. for Positive Behavior Facilitation training at HPHS
- $200,000 donation from Stanley Black & Decker for technology and Wi-Fi hotspots
- $500,000 donation from Barr (acceptance of funds)
- Preview of 2020-21 budget and Allovue finance software demo
Imported Meetings: 2018- 2025
The Hartford Public Schools board is meeting virtually in executive session to conduct the superintendent's mid-year evaluation. The only listed action item is a motion to adjourn the meeting, making this a closed-door personnel review session with no public agenda items.
- Executive session for superintendent's mid-year evaluation
- Virtual meeting held at 5:30 p.m. on January 12, 2021
- Motion to adjourn as the sole action item
Imported Meetings: 2018- 2025
The Hartford Public Schools Committee of the Whole is meeting virtually to discuss and receive information on several topics, including school choice and facilities, teaching and learning, and family and community engagement. Specific items include an update on 110 Washington Street, enrollment and school choice, survey results, teacher health and wellness, grading during the pandemic, and a School Governance Council (SGC) update. All items are listed as discussions or information, with no votes or decisions indicated.
- Discussion of 110 Washington Street (10 min)
- Office of Enrollment & School Choice Update (5 min)
- Survey Results (35 min)
- Teacher Health and Wellness (15 min)
- Grading Students During the Pandemic (15 min)