08/14/2024
Subject: Gloucester County Public Schools Board Meeting Summary - August 13, 2024
At the August 13 meeting, the Gloucester County School Board had a full agenda, beginning with a highlight of Gloucester High School's vibrant Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs. Ms. Renee Hypes, along with student leaders, presented their work in the Future Farmers of America and Agricultural Science programs, sharing their experiences and achievements. The Board expressed pride in these programs that prepare students for various jobs and careers.
Executive staff provided comprehensive departmental updates, covering the following topics:
Summer Programs: A summary of activities and programs conducted over the summer.
Curriculum Updates: Upcoming changes and improvements to the curriculum.
Safety and Security: Updates on measures being implemented to ensure a safe learning environment.
Staffing and Hiring: Information on the progress of hiring and staffing for the new school year.
Open Enrollment and Employee Benefits: Updates on benefits and enrollment for employees.
The Board recognized the extensive planning done over the summer to ensure a successful school year, expressing gratitude to the staff for their dedication.
Ms. Keener, Associate Director of Student Services, provided an update on student attendance and discipline. The data presented highlighted the efforts made by schools to address these important areas. However, it also indicated the need for sharing best practices across schools to improve outcomes further.
Dr. Vladu presented the school Board with a schedule of presentations designed to support progress on the division’s strategic goals.
In other business, the Board approved a resolution designating Thomas Calhoun Walker as a Gun-Free Zone, reinforcing the district's commitment to safety.
Additionally, Dr. Vladu addressed the growing concern over cell phone usage among students. He shared data showing that teenagers spend an average of 8 hours per day on their phones, with nearly 5 of those hours spent on social media. This trend contributes to the mental health crisis among young people. The School Board policy requires that students have their cell phones turned off and put away during the entire instructional day. Dr. Vladu emphasized the importance of communicating the detrimental effects of cell phone addiction on students' mental health and learning. He called for a collaborative effort among students, parents, school staff, and administrators to enforce this policy effectively.
The meeting covered a number of other topics related to the efficient operation of the school district. For a complete list of topics, presentations, and the full video, click on the link below.
School Board Meeting - August 13, 2024 (escribemeetings.com)
As we approach the new school year, we acknowledge that parents are our partners in education. Together, we wish our students, staff, and parents a phenomenally successful school year.
Sincerely,
Dr. Anthony Vladu
Division Superintendent