The superintendent updated the community on recent surveys, the visual arts chair discussed the department’s philosophy, the English learner director presented goals and several principals presented their school improvement plans. Continue reading

Two parents of 6th grade girls at Gibbs Middle School described their frustration with the long-term substitute science teacher who does not have a science background. Continue reading

The new Arlington High School building opened the day after the override vote. Principals from several other schools presented improvement plans. Continue reading

Several principals updated the committee on school improvement plans, including closing opportunity gaps, improving instruction, and increasing family engagement. Continue reading

The district presented reports on new hires that showed gaps in staff diversity compared to students. Outcomes data showed underrepresentation of focal groups in advanced courses, decreasing belonging, and persistent achievement gaps. The district received a safety grant and celebrated new electric buses. Continue reading

The Arlington School Committee introduced new leaders, heard an overview of the accountability system, and discussed strategic planning and data analysis. It heard the Wellness Department report and approved LGBTQ topics to be added to the curriculum. Continue reading

The Arlington School Committee, in a special meeting, appointed a representative to the Arlington 250th Anniversary Committee, approved revised student handbooks with significant changes to elementary handbook and high school absence policy, addressed hiring challenges with teaching assistants, and approved a side letter of agreement for special education social workers and school counselors at Ottoson Middle School. Continue reading

The School Committee unanimously approved a new job position, an Inclusion Specialist, to address large class sizes at Thompson school, particularly in grades one and two. Continue reading