K-12 Education
News releases, reports, statements and associated documents from public policy organizations influencing the debate on education policy.
Featured Stories
Seven CCSD Named as 2023-2024 Project Lead the Way Schools
CHARLESTON, South Carolina, May 16 -- Charleston County School District issued the following news release:
Seven Charleston County Schools (CCSD) schools have been identified as Project Lead The Way (PLTW) Distinguished Schools. PLTW is a national nonprofit organization that serves millions of PreK-12 students and teachers in schools across the U.S. A school earns the PLTW Distinguished School honor for its commitment to increasing student access, engagement, and achievement in its PLTW programs.
CCSD schools that were named include:
* North Charleston Elementary School (NCES) - Distinguished
... Show Full Article
CHARLESTON, South Carolina, May 16 -- Charleston County School District issued the following news release:
Seven Charleston County Schools (CCSD) schools have been identified as Project Lead The Way (PLTW) Distinguished Schools. PLTW is a national nonprofit organization that serves millions of PreK-12 students and teachers in schools across the U.S. A school earns the PLTW Distinguished School honor for its commitment to increasing student access, engagement, and achievement in its PLTW programs.
CCSD schools that were named include:
* North Charleston Elementary School (NCES) - DistinguishedLaunch
* Buist Academy - Distinguished Gateway
* Laing Middle School - Distinguished Gateway
* Morningside Middle School - Distinguished Gateway
* Moultrie Middle School - Distinguished Gateway
* East Cooper Center for Advanced Studies (ECCAS) - Distinguished High School
* Lucy Beckham High School - Distinguished High School
The PLTW Distinguished School recognition is based on the number of PLTW curricular offerings available to students, access and opportunity to the PLTW courses, the number of students engaged in PLTW courses, and student success in their PLTW coursework.
"Project Lead The Way prepares our students for the high-wage, high-skill, and in- demand careers of the future," said Rich Gordon, CCSD's Executive Director for Career and Technical Education. "Students learn how to problem-solve, think strategically, and work in teams, all the while building determination and grit."
Buist Academy's goal as an International Baccalaureate school is to educate students to be internationally minded while pursuing college and career readiness, according to Principal Shawntay White.
"Project Lead The Way provides these opportunities through inquiry-based STEM education that challenges our students to be risk-takers while exploring engineering and mathematical concepts," said White. "Scholars are making real- world connections and bringing global perspectives into PLTW classrooms. We are thankful and honored to be recognized as a PLTW Gateway Distinguished School."
This is the fourth consecutive year ECCAS has been recognized. Principal Jeff Blankenship said he was honored to be recognized and is proud of the school's commitment to providing students with exceptional educational experiences while ensuring equitable access to all 17 PLTW Biomedical Science, Computer Science, and Engineering high school programs.
"PLTW empowers students with the knowledge and skills to succeed, not only in STEM subjects but also prepares them for future careers and life outside of the classroom," said Blankenship.
Laing Middle School's Principal Jay Whitehair said he is honored by this national recognition by PLTW.
"I am very proud of our teachers and students for the development and implementation of a STEM program that aligns with College & Career readiness," said Whitehair. "We thank PLTW and their commitment to STEM education."
This is Beckham's first time receiving this award. Principal Anna Dassing said PLTW students and teachers worked hard to earn this distinction.
"Our instructors are committed to ensuring that our students are afforded access and opportunities in a variety of areas and our students are excelling because they have engaged deeply with engineering and biomedical courses," Dassing explained. "We are honored to be recognized and look forward to continuing to grow our PLTW offerings."
Morningside Principal George White said he was thrilled about the incredible impact that Project Lead The Way (PLTW) is having on his scholars.
"The opportunities provided through PLTW are sparking inspiration, fostering critical thinking skills, and promoting collaboration among our students," said White. "As we continue to invest in the development of our scholars, we are witnessing their growth into future global leaders. In today's ever-changing and complex society, the skills acquired through PLTW are essential for our students to succeed and thrive. I am excited to see the continued growth and success of our scholars as they navigate their educational journey at Morningside with PLTW."
This is the second year NCES has been recognized.
"Our goal is to provide our students with real-world, hands-on STEM learning experiences that ignite curiosity, broaden knowledge of career opportunities, and prepare them to take advantage of further STEM learning options at the middle and high school level," said NCES Principal Melissa Brubaker. "We look forward to offering our PLTW lab for years to come thanks to our partnership with the Liberty Hill Stem Initiative and the commitment of our district to provide schools with flexibility through the Weighted Student Formula model of funding."
Project Lead The Way empowers students to develop and apply in-demand, transportable skills by exploring real-world challenges. Through three pathways in computer science, engineering, and biomedical science, students not only learn technical skills, but also learn to solve problems, think critically and creatively, communicate, and collaborate.
"PLTW directly supports CCSD's three pillars of rigorous grade-level instruction, high-quality teachers and leaders, and wraparound services, all while addressing CCSD's goals of literacy, numeracy, and college and career readiness," added Gordon. "Furthermore, students love it."
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About the Charleston County School District
Charleston County School District (CCSD) is a nationally accredited school district committed to providing equitable and quality educational opportunities for all its students. CCSD is the second-largest school system in South Carolina and represents a unique blend of urban, suburban, and rural schools spanning 1,300 square miles along the coast. CCSD serves approximately 50,000 students in 88 schools and specialized programs. CCSD offers a diverse portfolio of educational options and specialized programs delivered to the students of CCSD through neighborhood, magnet, IB (international baccalaureate), Montessori, and charter schools and programs.
Rich educational opportunities for students include programs in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM); music and other creative and performing arts; career and technical preparation programs; military; dual credit; and many more.
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Original text here: https://www.ccsdschools.com/cms/lib/SC50000504/Centricity/Domain/119/Seven%20CCSD%20named%20as%202023-2024%20Project%20Lead%20the%20Way%20Schools.pdf
JPS Announces RFP for Redevelopment of Surplus School Sites
JACKSON, Mississippi, May 16 -- Jackson Public Schools issued the following news:
Jackson Public Schools has released its comprehensive Request for Proposal (RFP) process and launched the new Repurposing Initiative web page (https://www.jackson.k12.ms.us/domain/6311) that will help to promote the reuse and redevelopment of our surplus school sites.
Our primary goal is to revitalize these properties, transforming them into valuable assets that contribute to the growth and prosperity of Jackson's neighborhoods.
In a press conference on Wednesday, May 15, 2024, Superintendent, Dr. Errick L. Greene
... Show Full Article
JACKSON, Mississippi, May 16 -- Jackson Public Schools issued the following news:
Jackson Public Schools has released its comprehensive Request for Proposal (RFP) process and launched the new Repurposing Initiative web page (https://www.jackson.k12.ms.us/domain/6311) that will help to promote the reuse and redevelopment of our surplus school sites.
Our primary goal is to revitalize these properties, transforming them into valuable assets that contribute to the growth and prosperity of Jackson's neighborhoods.
In a press conference on Wednesday, May 15, 2024, Superintendent, Dr. Errick L. Greenesaid the Jackson community and Board of Trustees have made it clear that they want a plan of action to repurpose our closed or soon-to-be-shuttered buildings.
"We've heard the call and established the Facilities Repurposing Advisory Committee to help us strategically develop a comprehensive plan," Greene said during the announcement. "We've received an overwhelming amount of interest in the properties from various individuals and organizations and the RFP process and the new web page will provide a direct avenue to submit competitive proposals for the Board of Trustees to review."
Whether it's repurposing a school as a community center, a healthcare facility, affordable housing, or a creative hub, our vision is to leverage these sites to meet the diverse needs of residents, Greene added.
Ms. Latoya Cutts, Project Consultant, shared details about the RFP, new web page, and how stakeholders can purchase or lease any properties.
Read more about the JPS Repurposing Initiative here (https://www.jackson.k12.ms.us/domain/6311), including a list of closed sites, undeveloped property sites, proposal guidelines and resources for interested developers.
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Original text here: https://www.jackson.k12.ms.us/site/default.aspx?PageType=3&DomainID=4&ModuleInstanceID=779&ViewID=6446EE88-D30C-497E-9316-3F8874B3E108&RenderLoc=0&FlexDataID=45921&PageID=1
FCPS Annual Financial Report Recognized by Government Finance Officers Association
FALLS CHURCH, Virginia, May 16 -- Fairfax County Public Schools issued the following news:
Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) has received a Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting for its comprehensive annual financial report from the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) of the U.S. and Canada. FCPS was recognized for its financial reporting work for the fiscal year ending in June 2023. FCPS has received the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting for 30 consecutive years.
The award, the highest form of recognition in the area of
... Show Full Article
FALLS CHURCH, Virginia, May 16 -- Fairfax County Public Schools issued the following news:
Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) has received a Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting for its comprehensive annual financial report from the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) of the U.S. and Canada. FCPS was recognized for its financial reporting work for the fiscal year ending in June 2023. FCPS has received the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting for 30 consecutive years.
The award, the highest form of recognition in the area ofgovernmental accounting and financial reporting, is conferred to organizations that demonstrate a constructive "spirit of full disclosure" to clearly communicate their financial stories.
GFOA is a nonprofit professional association that serves approximately 19,000 government finance professionals.
All FCPS budget documents are accessible at http://www.fcps.edu.
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Original text here: https://www.fcps.edu/news/fcps-annual-financial-report-recognized-government-finance-officers-association
CCSD Honors Rookie Teachers of the Year
CHARLESTON, South Carolina, May 16 -- Charleston County School District issued the following news release on May 15, 2024:
Charleston County School District (CCSD) recognized four first- year teachers Thursday, May 8, 2024, by surprising them with Rookie Teacher of the Year awards.
Denicsha Bennamon (Morningside Middle School), Philip O'Reilly (Septima P. Clark Academy), Tara Pucetas (Oakland Elementary School), and Paige Van Orden (Belle Hall Elementary School) were all honored with a visit from Superintendent Anita Huggins and district staff.
Bennamon is a seventh grade social studies and
... Show Full Article
CHARLESTON, South Carolina, May 16 -- Charleston County School District issued the following news release on May 15, 2024:
Charleston County School District (CCSD) recognized four first- year teachers Thursday, May 8, 2024, by surprising them with Rookie Teacher of the Year awards.
Denicsha Bennamon (Morningside Middle School), Philip O'Reilly (Septima P. Clark Academy), Tara Pucetas (Oakland Elementary School), and Paige Van Orden (Belle Hall Elementary School) were all honored with a visit from Superintendent Anita Huggins and district staff.
Bennamon is a seventh grade social studies andworld geography teacher. She made it her mission to create a culturally inclusive classroom where all students, despite their English proficiency, felt included and supported in their academic learning journey.
"I worked to gain cultural awareness of all scholars and their diverse backgrounds," Bennamon explained. "I created a project that allowed scholars to illustrate their cultural values, as some created posters, showcased culturally- related foods, songs, etc. Everyone became educated on one another's cultural backgrounds, and all projects were displayed around the classroom. This created friendships, a high tolerance, and a respectful, comfortable, nonjudgmental, and welcoming environment."
O'Reilly, a Career and Technical Education teacher, strives to be a trustworthy and predictable adult who neither tries to be identified as a peer nor patronizes his students.
"I have used this rapport to engage them about their lives, their fears and their private aspirations," O'Reilly explained. "Success for me is to partner with them to describe an individual path out."
Pucetas is a third grade English language arts and social studies teacher. She believes every child needs a champion whether that be for the micro or the macro things.
"One way I encourage students to learn from their mistakes is to make mistakes myself," said Pucetas. "It's crucial to remember that the kids in my class were humans before they were a student. So how do they learn from mistakes? I model it. I often make a mistake on worksheets, on quizzes, and tests, but I always make sure that I voice 'I'm human, I make mistakes, but I'll know how to fix it the next time.' My students are so acclimated to this that any time I make an error, they automatically say, 'It's okay, we all make mistakes.' When we've built that narrative, there's never a chance for students to think that mistakes are not okay."
Van Orden is a K-2 Resource teacher. She believes that building trust with students and families is critical to a child's success.
"Trust, in return, builds strong relationships between myself and my students," said Van Orden. "When students have a strong relationship, respect and trust their teacher, it motivates students to be able to focus on learning and want to do well with their learning."
The CCSD 2024 Rookie Teachers of the Year represent the top first-year teachers at the lower and upper elementary, middle, and high school levels. Each teacher was nominated by their principal for embracing the district's vision for teachers who truly exemplify the best in their school.
After being selected by the schools, the rookies wrote essays in which they described the ways that they meet the needs of their students and their families. These applications were rated by a team of veteran educators who had the difficult job of finding the top Rookie Teachers of the Year.
"It is a privilege to recognize and honor the CCSD Rookie Teachers of the Year," said Associate Superintendent Terri Nichols. "These amazing teachers, first recognized by their schools and then chosen by a district selection committee, have demonstrated a level of commitment and expertise far beyond their years of experience. They have already had a tremendous impact on the students they serve as well as their school communities. We are delighted to honor them in this small way for their dedication to the children of Charleston County School District."
"We are honored to recognize these outstanding educators who have not only shown growth in their profession but are seeing gains among their scholars," said Gayle Morris, Director of Leadership Pipeline. "They deserve to be celebrated every day for their tireless work."
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About the Charleston County School District
Charleston County School District (CCSD) is a nationally accredited school district committed to providing equitable and quality educational opportunities for all its students. CCSD is the second-largest school system in South Carolina and represents a unique blend of urban, suburban, and rural schools spanning 1,300 square miles along the coast. CCSD serves approximately 50,000 students in 88 schools and specialized programs.
CCSD offers a diverse portfolio of educational options and specialized programs delivered to the students of CCSD through neighborhood, magnet, IB (international baccalaureate), Montessori, and charter schools and programs. Rich educational opportunities for students include programs in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM); music and other creative and performing arts; career and technical preparation programs; military; dual credit; and many more.
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Original text here: https://www.ccsdschools.com/cms/lib/SC50000504/Centricity/Domain/119/CCSD%20honors%20Rookie%20Teachers%20of%20the%20Year.pdf
JPS Honors 107 Retiring Team Members
JACKSON, Mississippi, May 14 -- Jackson Public Schools issued the following agency statement on May 13, 2024:
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While it's hard to say goodbye and part with team members who have become like family, it is our honor to pay tribute to our departing colleagues as they retire, in some cases, from decades of distinguished service. To our retirees, we say thank you for your commitment to serving Jackson Public Schools with excellence throughout your tenure. We wish you success and good health in all of your future exploits.
Congratulations. The best is yet to come!
FIRST NAME ... LAST NAME ...
... Show Full Article
JACKSON, Mississippi, May 14 -- Jackson Public Schools issued the following agency statement on May 13, 2024:
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While it's hard to say goodbye and part with team members who have become like family, it is our honor to pay tribute to our departing colleagues as they retire, in some cases, from decades of distinguished service. To our retirees, we say thank you for your commitment to serving Jackson Public Schools with excellence throughout your tenure. We wish you success and good health in all of your future exploits.
Congratulations. The best is yet to come!
FIRST NAME ... LAST NAME ...POSITION ... RETIRED FROM LOCATION
Gloria ... Adams ... Teacher, EMR/Other High School ... Murrah
Alberta ... Alberta ... Teacher, EMR/SLD ... Wilkins
Sharin ... Alexander ... Office Manager ... McWillie
Thomas ... Armstrong ... Safety Officer ... Campus Enforcement
Donna ... Barnes ... Guidance Counselor ... Blackburn
Gwendolyn ... Bell ... Instructional Assistant ... McLeod
Robert ... Bonds ... Bus Driver/Mechanic ... Transportation South
Elsie ... Bracey ... Guidance Counselor ... Cardozo
Valerie ... Bradley ... Principal ... Lanier
Monica ... Bratton ... Accounts Payable Analyst ... Business Office
Quanda ... Brooks ... Teacher, Music ... Marshall
Kathryn ... Broome ... Teacher, English ... Blackburn
Brenita ... Brown ... Office Manager ... CDC
Johnnie ... Carter ... Bus Attendant ... Transportation South
Renae ... Carter ... Cook ... Galloway
Stephanie ... Catchings ... Teacher, Grade 3 ... McLeod
Rachel ... Catchings ... Teacher, Grade 2 ... Walton
Melvin ... Champ ... Band Director ... Wingfield
Conerly ... Chapman ... Bus Driver ... Transportation North
Tracy ... Clemons-Frazier ... Teacher, Lead (LA) ... McWillie
James ... Coleman ... Teacher, Health Middle ... Whitten
Tawaii ... Collins ... Coach, Academy (High School) ... Lanier
Vicki ... Conley ... Principal ... Dawson
Linda ... Conley ... Elementary Office Assistant ... Key
Mautoyia ... Cooper ... Teacher, Science Physical ... High School Office
Marilyn ... Davidson ... Cook ... Murrah
Glenn ... Davis ... Safety Coordinator ... Campus Enforcement
Valarie ... Dillard ... Guidance Counselor ... Murrah
Patricia ... Dotson ... Teacher, Pre-K ... Sykes
Russell ... Ellis ... Safety Patrol ... Campus Enforcement
Stephanie ... Ford ... Teacher, Grade 2 ... Sykes
Frenchie ... Frazier ... Instructional Assistant ... Isable
Elaine ... Gayden ... Teacher, Grade 4 ... Timberlawn
Vickey ... Gilmore ... Teacher, EMR/SLD ... Wilkins
Paige ... Grant ... Teacher, EMR/SLD ... Wilkins
Angela ... Graves ... Assistant Principal ... Chastain
Carla ... Hall ... Teacher, Pre-K ... Key
Angela ... Hamilton ... Teacher, English ... Peeples
Norma ... Hampton ... Child Nutrition Assistant ... McLeod
Lynda ... Harris ... Cashier ... McLeod
Eloise ... Hollis ... Bus Driver ... Transportation North
Carolyn ... Holmes ... VSC Supervisor ... Vehicle Service Center
Davietta ... Horton ... Teacher, EMR/SLD ... Isable
Alberta ... James ... Child Nutrition Assistant ... Murrah
Angela ... Jennings ... Cook ... Provine
Michael ... Johnson ... Warehouse Deliveryman ... Property Accounting
Melissa ... Jones ... Teacher, Pre-K ... North Jackson
Gwendolyn ... Jones ... Teacher, Grade 5 ... John Hopkins
Daryl ... Jones ... Executive Director ... Athletics
Bettie ... Jones ... Coordinator, Purchasing ... Business Office
Tabatha ... Kenney ... Counselor ... Career Development Center
Milton ... Larry ... Glass Technician ... Carpentry
Marshall ... Lee ... Safety Patrol Sergeant ... Campus Enforcement
Janice ... Lewis ... Instructional Assistant ... Timberlawn
Yolanda ... Lloyd ... Principal ... John Hopkins
Ralph ... Lorthridge ... Bus Driver ... Transportation North
Dianne ... Luckett ... Instructional Assistant ... Spann
Martha ... McCrite ... Child Nutrition Assistant ... Whitten
Daniel ... McGee ... Instructor, Army ... JROTC
Shirley ... McGee ... Instructional Assistant ... Timberlawn
Sylvester ... McLaurin ... Warehouse Deliveryman ... Child Nutrition Warehouse
Shan ... McWilliams ... Teacher, Emotional Disability ... Forest Hill
Emma ... Michael ... Classified Graduation Coach ... Lanier
Otis ... Miller ... Teacher, Grade 5 ... Casey
Larry ... Milton ... Glass Technician ... Carpentry
Russell ... Moody ... Teacher, English ... Lanier
Elinor ... Morgan ... Teacher, Music APAC ... Wells APAC
Mary ... Norwood ... Bus Driver ... Transportation North
James ... Odem ... Bus Driver ... Transportation North
Willie ... O'Harroll ... Teacher, Grade 4 ... Isable
Carlee ... Palmer ... Bus Driver ... Transportation North
Janet ... Perry ... Teacher, Gifted ... Whitten
Edith ... Pitchford ... Instructional Assistant ... Wingfield
Priscilla ... Pritchard ... Custodian ... Sykes
Sheila ... Richardson ... Teacher, Music ... Key/Lester
Kay ... Riley ... Bus Driver ... Transportation South
Mary ... Robinson ... Teacher ... Lanier
Fredrick ... Robinson ... Warehouse Deliveryman ... Property Accounting
Brenda ... Rodgers ... Teacher, Art High School ... Jim Hill
Johnnie ... Rudd ... Bus Driver ... Transportation South
Dolores ... Sallie ... Bus Driver ... Transportation South
Amanda ... Sanders ... Teacher, EMR/SLD ... Smith
Sandra ... Scott ... Teacher, Ch Music High School ... Provine
LaTasha ... Shelton ... Instructional Assistant ... Oak Forest
Jennifer ... Simmons ... Guidance Counselor ... Murrah
Felisha ... Starks ... Office Manager ... REAP
Mazola ... Stinson ... Instructional Assistant ... Sykes
Jeanette ... Straughter ... Teacher, Study Skills ... Jim Hill
Mary ... Taylor ... Records Clerk ... Jim Hill
Sharon ... Terrell ... Principal ... Chastain
Patricia ... Terrell ... Head Custodian ... Peeples
Victor ... Terry ... Warehouse Deliveryman ... Child Nutrition Warehouse
Nazareth ... Thomas ... Custodian ... Northwest
Sharon ... Turner ... Assistant Principal ... Timberlawn
Willie ... Turner ... Bus Driver ... Transportation North
Ruby ... Vaughn ... Custodian ... Van Winkle
Tonya ... Walker ... Instructional Assistant ... Green
Ina ... Watson ... Teacher, College & Career Readiness ... Provine
Ruthie ... Webb ... Teacher, Learning Strategies ... Powell
Mary ... Welch ... Teacher, Kindergarten ... Sykes
Barbara ... Wheaton ... Bus Driver ... Transportation South
Christopher ... White ... Teacher, Fire Science ... CDC
Wilena ... Williams ... Teacher, Grade 1 ... Marshall
Gwendolyn ... Williams ... Guidance Counselor ... Chastain
Angela ... Wilson ... Teacher, Grade 4 ... Shirley
Regina ... Winn ... Cashier ... Kirksey
Arta ... Young ... Instructional Assistant ... Sykes
Marvin ... Young ... Custodian ... Clausell
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Original text here: https://www.jackson.k12.ms.us/site/default.aspx?PageType=3&DomainID=4&ModuleInstanceID=779&ViewID=6446EE88-D30C-497E-9316-3F8874B3E108&RenderLoc=0&FlexDataID=45799&PageID=1
Charleston County School District: Murray-LaSaine Music Teacher Named in Top 215 Line Up of GRAMMY Museum Teacher Educators
CHARLESTON, South Carolina, May 14 -- Charleston County School District issued the following news release:
Students at Murray-LaSaine Montessori School nominated their music teacher, Lindsay Linderman, for the GRAMMY Museum Teacher Educator Award, and she placed in the top 215 quarterfinalists.
This prestigious award is given to current educators, from kindergarten through college in both public and private schools, who have made a significant and lasting contribution to the field of music education and who advocate for the ongoing inclusion of music education in schools. This year's quarterfinalists
... Show Full Article
CHARLESTON, South Carolina, May 14 -- Charleston County School District issued the following news release:
Students at Murray-LaSaine Montessori School nominated their music teacher, Lindsay Linderman, for the GRAMMY Museum Teacher Educator Award, and she placed in the top 215 quarterfinalists.
This prestigious award is given to current educators, from kindergarten through college in both public and private schools, who have made a significant and lasting contribution to the field of music education and who advocate for the ongoing inclusion of music education in schools. This year's quarterfinalistshail from 202 cities and were chosen from more than 2,400 initial nominations. Additionally, 159 legacy applicants from 2024 are also eligible for this year's award.
"I am extremely honored to be considered for this amazing award," said Linderman. "Teaching music brings me such immense joy and I'm thankful I get to share this joy with my students, school and community."
Semi-finalists for the 2025 Music Educator Award will be announced later this year. The ultimate recipient will be celebrated during GRAMMY Week 2025.
Each year, one recipient is selected from 10 finalists and recognized for their remarkable impact on students' lives. The 11th annual honoree will be flown to Los Angeles, CA to attend the 67th Annual GRAMMY Awards(R) and a range of GRAMMY Week events. The nine additional finalists will receive a $1,000 honorarium, and the schools of all 10 finalists will receive matching grants.
Fifteen semi-finalists will receive a $500 honorarium with matching school grants. The Music Teacher Educator Award program, including honorariums, is made possible by the generosity and support of the Chuck Lorre Family Foundation.
"The arts are critically important to public education," said Principal Meredith Wallace. "Visual and performing arts teachers make magic happen and expand students' horizons. Lindsay Linderman does that for our school community. Lindsay uses music as the tool to build connections and relationships with her students. She brings students out of their shells with opportunities to perform in front of audiences. She finds creative ways to hook a student, motivating even the most reluctant learner to try something new. She inspires all of us."
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About the Charleston County School District
Charleston County School District (CCSD) is a nationally accredited school district committed to providing equitable and quality educational opportunities for all its students. CCSD is the second-largest school system in South Carolina and represents a unique blend of urban, suburban, and rural schools spanning 1,300 square miles along the coast. CCSD serves approximately 50,000 students in 88 schools and specialized programs. CCSD offers a diverse portfolio of educational options and specialized programs delivered to the students of CCSD through neighborhood, magnet, IB (international baccalaureate), Montessori, and charter schools and programs.
Rich educational opportunities for students include programs in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM); music and other creative and performing arts; career and technical preparation programs; military; dual credit; and many more.
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Original text here: https://www.ccsdschools.com/cms/lib/SC50000504/Centricity/Domain/119/Murray%20LaSaine%20music%20teacher%20names%20in%20Top%20250%20line%20up%20of%20Grammy%20Museum%20Teacher%20Educators.pdf
Akron Public Schools: Fiscal Reorganization, Restructuring to Save Nearly $24 Million
AKRON, Ohio, May 14 -- Akron Public Schools issued the following news:
Pending board approval, Akron Public Schools will implement the comprehensive APS Fiscal Reorganization and Restructuring Plan to address budget challenges while maintaining educational excellence. The plan is being introduced to the board of education's committee on finance tonight.
"We remain committed to excellence in education despite financial challenges," said Superintendent Dr. Michael Robinson. "Our decisions are guided by this commitment to provide an exceptional education for our scholars."
Facing financial deficits
... Show Full Article
AKRON, Ohio, May 14 -- Akron Public Schools issued the following news:
Pending board approval, Akron Public Schools will implement the comprehensive APS Fiscal Reorganization and Restructuring Plan to address budget challenges while maintaining educational excellence. The plan is being introduced to the board of education's committee on finance tonight.
"We remain committed to excellence in education despite financial challenges," said Superintendent Dr. Michael Robinson. "Our decisions are guided by this commitment to provide an exceptional education for our scholars."
Facing financial deficitsin its five-year forecast, the district is emphasizing the need for adjustments to prevent deficit spending. Its plan, as presented tonight, focuses on operating more efficiently through restructuring and eliminating certain positions, aiming to optimize resources while minimizing the impact on teaching and learning.
Executive Director of Human Capital Yamini Adkins said, "While adjustments to staff are included in the plan (link to plan), our review and intensive evaluation process led us to identify more areas for savings across the board."
The district's plan will reduce expenditures by approximately $24 million while ensuring all scholars are college, career and life-ready.
Akron Public Schools, a leading urban district, prioritizes equitable and innovative educational opportunities for all students, preparing them for college, career and life.
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ADDENDUM
Right Sizing to Meet Objectives
APS amplifies its focus on instructional strength
Resilience in Change
As Akron Public Schools (APS) embarks on a new chapter in its long and historic journey, it is filled with excitement and gratitude. Strong, creative and dedicated educators are its heart and soul. So are passionate scholars and supportive families who make the community thrive.
"As we right-size our district's resources, we want to share our vision for the future, while we navigate the important changes ahead with focus, resilience and determination," said Supt. Dr. Michael Robinson as he prepared to brief his board on budget adjustments.
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A Message from APS leadership, to Greater Akron
Right-Sizing for Sustainability
Change is inevitable and often presents us with opportunities to grow and adapt. Akron Public Schools will likely operate in the red in its five-year forecast. We must continue to be as efficient as possible through restructuring and reorganizing while maintaining our focus on the instructional core and our high standards of excellence for scholars.
We will continue making strategic decisions to align our staffing and budgeting with our funding. While this process may involve difficult choices, our commitment to excellence remains unwavering.
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Strong Standards Persist
At the heart of APS is our instructional core, the essence of teaching and learning. Our educators uphold rigorous standards, fostering a love for knowledge and critical thinking. We believe every child deserves an exceptional education, regardless of external challenges. Our classrooms remain vibrant spaces where curiosity thrives and where students discover and pursue their dreams.
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Investing in People
Our teachers, administrators and support staff are the backbone of our district. They inspire, mentor and guide our scholars toward success. As we navigate change, we remain committed to professional development, recognizing outstanding educators and creating a positive work environment. Together, we will weather any storm and emerge stronger.
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Community Engagement and Transparency
Transparency is key during times of change. We pledge to keep our community informed about decisions affecting our schools. Our shared commitment to Akron's children unites us, and we are stronger when we collaborate.
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A Brighter Future
Akron Public Schools has a rich history, and its legacy is built on resilience and flexibility to endure challenging times. We have faced challenges before and have risen stronger. As we announce important changes, let us remember that our purpose remains unchanged to empower our scholars to reach. Our classrooms are not just places of learning but incubators of dreams.
We invite Greater Akron to join us on this journey. Let us embrace change with open hearts knowing that, together, we can create a brighter, more equitable future for every child in Akron. Our commitment to excellence burns more brightly than ever, and we are honored to be charged with making a difference for the future of Akron.
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Original text here: https://www.akronschools.com/district/news/news-detail/~board/district-news/post/fiscal-reorganization-restructuring-to-save-nearly-24-million
