The meeting began with a tour of Gloucester High School’s ongoing renovations. The board was shown updates including the new extended learning areas, restroom upgrades, a state-of-the-art media center, and significant renovations to the band room and performing arts classrooms, designed to enhance the school’s music and arts programs.
At 6:00 pm, the meeting reconvened, with Peasley Middle School student Aysha Williams leading the Pledge of Allegiance.
Recognitions:
•Lauren Landry and Leila Nester were honored as the October Seniors of the Month for their academic excellence and citizenship.
•GHS senior Jacob Garrett was recognized for being named Jostens National Student of the Month as part of the Renaissance program.
•The board also recognized Grace Shrewsbury as the September Senior of the Month.
•Ms. Beth Duke was acknowledged as the Community Volunteer of the Month for her contributions to Gloucester schools.
Accent on Academics:
Ms. Suzanne Nester, along with GHS students Lauren Garnett, Kaylee Hall, McKenzie Penn, Madison Roady, Addyson Zabiki, and Leila Nester, presented the GHS Health and Medical Sciences Program, showcasing the district’s commitment to preparing students for high-paying and in-demand careers.
VSBA Roadshow:
Dr. Cardell Patillo, President of the Virginia School Boards Association, greeted the board and commended their dedication to ensuring opportunities for all students. His visit was part of the VSBA Roadshow, which fosters collaboration and celebrates successes in Virginia public schools.
Community Engagement:
The Gloucester Rowing Association presented feedback on student engagement and scholarship opportunities, reinforcing the district’s support for this historic organization that reflects Gloucester’s maritime heritage.
The NAACP shared an inspiring video highlighting the upcoming annual College and Career Fair, scheduled for October 17, 2024, at Gloucester High School’s gym, starting at 5:00 pm.
Updates and Reports:
•Workforce Development: Dr. Diron Ford, Director of Secondary Instruction, reported growth in work-based placements for Gloucester students.
•Class Size Report: Dwight Duren, Chief Financial Officer, presented the class size report, noting that class sizes are below state limits, though enrollment has decreased from last year.
•Accreditation: Dr. Bess Worley reported that all GCPS schools are fully accredited and detailed the significant performance improvements over the previous year. She also introduced the new state accountability and accreditation framework, which will be implemented at the end of the current school year.
•Working Conditions Survey: Ms. Stephanie Hautz reviewed the results of the working conditions survey. The board expressed appreciation to the GCPS staff for their feedback, emphasizing their commitment to improving working conditions while maximizing student potential.
Communication and Discipline:
Dr. Vladu shared concerns about parent contact information, revealing that approximately 2/5 of parent email contacts are not working, and one out of every five phone contacts is missing or blocked. He urged parents to update their contact information with their respective schools.
Dr. Vladu also emphasized the importance of parents acknowledgingreceipt of the student code of conduct, as required by state law. To date, only 50 percent of parents have signed to acknowledge receipt. He highlighted that crisis communication is essential, and improving discipline depends on everyone understanding the behavior expectations outlined in the code of conduct.
Closing Remarks:
A special thank you was extended to the community and parents for their ongoing support throughout a phenomenal school year. Gloucester County Public Schools reached its highest state ranking since record-keeping began in 2006, a testament to the hard work of staff, students, and the community.