Board of Education Goals focus on students, community

The Berne-Knox-Westerlo Central School District Board of Education adopted District Goals for the 2016-17 school year and beyond at its regularly scheduled meeting on Monday, Dec. 12.

The Board of Education sets the standards and expectations for the academic, financial, and organizational operation of the school district, while maintaining open communications with the school and community. In order to advance the standards and expectations, the Board has adopted the following goals and objectives:

Academic progress

The Board of Education will support continuing academic progress in the development of programs to support student learning and student achievement, as evidenced by a 5 point growth in performance on grade 3-8 NYS Assessments, 10% reduction in elementary students reading below grade level, 5 point in proficiency and/or mastery on Regents exams, and a 90% graduation rate.

Personnel

The Board of Education will support the continuing development of a comprehensive personnel program that includes a refined hiring process in line with current policy, full implementation of employee evaluation plans, strategies for retaining high quality employees, updating the district professional development plan, and continually evaluating collective bargaining agreements.

Policy

The policy committee of the Board of Education will review and update the 7000 series of policy (policies affecting student progress, conduct, attendance, activities, and welfare) in the Board Policy Manual.

Facility and operations

The Board of Education will formulate a detailed capital project plan, and all necessary pre-referendum work, in anticipation of a public referendum to be held in May.

The Board will seek input regarding food services at the elementary school and will review technology committee recommendations for the use of Smart Schools Bond Funds.

Finance

The Board of Education will support the development of a fiscally responsible budget for the 2017-18 school year, as well as supporting the continued strengthening of business office operations.

Communication

The Board of Education will enhance communications in the district by redesigning the district website, conducting paperless meetings, move from SNN to Blackboard Connect, and publishing four (4) district newsletters during the school year.