Submitted by Jen Favalora.
2020-2021 School Year: Superintendent Hageman announced the plan to bring HKHS back to full in-person learning. As was reported last month, with the field house renovations complete, the only obstacle in a full reopening was the high number of Covid cases in our towns. With community metrics trending down, the administration has planned a staggered return for all students starting with Seniors on March 15th, Freshman on March 22nd and Juniors and Sophomores will return to school on March 29th. All RSD17 students still have the option to learn remotely. The High School administration is also working on modified plans for Senior Spring traditions with health and safety as a priority while giving these students a memorable end to their Senior year.
Vision of the Graduate: Dr. Hageman announced that after several months of work with community members, teachers and staff, Board members and the administration, RSD17 had finalized the Vision of the Graduate. This Vision clarifies six skills and dispositions that our community and schools desire as essential traits in our graduates. Our Vision focuses on developing our learners to be critical thinkers and collaborators, who are caring and compassionate with the skills and mindsets to solve real-world challenges. Students grow and contribute through academic exploration and feedback, perseverance and resilience, and open-mindedness to others’ perspectives. The skills and dispositions in our Vision will guide our ongoing efforts to prepare our students to provide leadership, creativity, and ingenuity in an increasingly connected global world. You can read the details on our Vision of the Graduate, including the six skills and dispositions identified, on our RSD17.org website and then by clicking on the article to read it in its entirety.
Curriculum Committee: The Curriculum Committee introduced a proposal for Social/Emotional Learning Curriculums for both the Middle School and High School for the upcoming school year. The middle school proposed using the evidence- based Curriculum called “Second Step,” which reinforces important skills such as managing stress, coping with challenges, resolving conflicts, building and maintaining healthy relationships, and responsible decision-making. The high school would provide SEL lessons once a week during their advisory period through a multimedia program called “School Connect” focusing on competencies identified by researchers as critical to success in school, the workplace, and life in general.
Diversity Committee: The Curriculum Committee reported that the District’s Diversity Committee recently completed a four part professional development series on understanding social identity and aligning equity goals with learning outcomes. The Committee has initiated professional development at all of the schools this Spring with a continued plan for professional development through 2021-2022. Alongside HK Youth and Family, the Committee has organized a monthly study group which focuses on diversity, equity and inclusion. Additionally, parents who are interested in participating in District focus groups are encouraged to contact Humanities Coordinator Jenn Beermunder.
Facilities Committee: The Facilities Committee reported their concerns to the Board on the condition of the White House and Barn located on the HKHS property. There is specific concern with the condition of the roof and boiler at the White House which houses HK Rec and HK Youth and Family Services. The Facilities Committee recommended, and the Board agreed, for the District to work in partnership with both agencies to find alternate spaces within school district facilities to support our partners who serve the students and families of Haddam and Killingworth.
Correction: The January BOE Summary incorrectly reported the recently signed BOE- HKEA contract allowed for 2 ½ step movements to teachers. However, there were only 2 step movements negotiated over the three year contract.
Website: In March, the Board of Education will begin work on the 2021-2022 RSD17 School Budget. All meetings, including the Superintendent’s March 2nd Budget Presentation, can be viewed live or recorded through the RSD17.org website. Proposed Budgets, Budget Timeline and FAQ’s will be updated as they become available under “District” -> “Budget Information”.
