Administrative Update
This past week, the administration had training with Attorney Gorrow to review updates to school procedures, including bullying forms, investigations, and notifications. As part of this training there was a review of the Safe School Zones Act and what constitutes a violation of this law. The last part of training focused on updates to written notifications and recommendations to improve school district forms.
The past three weeks, I have conducted Superintendent conversations with staff in all schools and two community conversations. The topics included safety and security in schools, a budget overview of FY 24 process, the Alvirne High School renovations, long-term school facilities planning for the Early Learning Center and the enrollment study. At each conversation there was an opportunity to ask questions and have further discussion. The key themes included hiring challenges and staffing shortages, including the need for more paraprofessionals, lunch monitors, and substitutes. Safety and security discussions included lighting in parking lots and security cameras in the schools.
Mr. Baker and I conducted instructional walkthroughs at Nottingham West Elementary School. We observed a virtual tour in one classroom. Students completed a reading followed by a virtual trip with the author.
Professional Development
The November 8th workshop day provided teachers to work with grade level teams on reviewing assessment results and align curriculum by department. At the high school, teachers worked on NEASC accreditation discussing the 5 NEASC standards and the foundational elements evident at Alvirne High School.
Last week, Jess Paeplow, the district’s ESOL coordinator, and I attended the NHSAA Excellence through Equity conference . Topics covered were introducing, implementing, and sustaining diversity, equity, and inclusion in school communities and how to have community conversations, with listening and empathy as key elements of the presentation. Our Diversity, Equity and Inclusion committee met later that day and discussed what we learned and how we might incorporate it into our work.
Other Updates
I had the opportunity to attend the National Honor Society Ceremony at Alvirne High School. The ceremony recognized the high school students joining National Honor Society.
This past Saturday, I attended the Alvirne High School drama performance “Radium Girls,” the students did an amazing job. I want to recognize all students who participated in the drama performance and recognize the directors, Ms. LaFrance, Ms. Dennis, Ms. Tobin, Ms. Torres, Mr. Gallagan, and Ms. Nelson. This spring there will be another opportunity to see the students perform on stage.
Daniel Moulis, Ed. D
Superintendent