Kalamazoo Public Schools - May 22, 2025 Kalamazoo Public Schools

Updated 2 days ago

The board honors several outstanding educators with the Excellence in Education Award. Notable recipients include Ms. Cheyenne Rose, Ms. Sarah Ell, and Mr. Hector Dominguez Woo, recognized for their exceptional contributions to special education. The board discusses significant improvements in student behavior and suspension rates. Community members raise concerns about proposed cuts to library staffing, emphasizing the importance of maintaining library services to support student literacy and success. The board also conducts a performance evaluation of Superintendent Dr. Slade, praising his leadership and accomplishments in improving attendance and graduation rates.

Chapters

Honoring Ms. Cheyenne Rose (00:00:19)
Ms. Cheyenne Rose, an early childhood special education teacher at Parkwood Upjohn, is honored for making a significant impact on her students.

Ms. Cheyenne Rose is recognized for her extraordinary efforts as an early childhood special education teacher at Parkwood Upjohn. Parents and colleagues commend her for her dedication and the positive difference she has made in her students' education.
Honoring Ms. Sarah Ell (00:00:57)
Ms. Sarah Ell, a special education resource room teacher at Millwood Elementary, is honored for being an invaluable resource and making education accessible.

Ms. Sarah Ell is celebrated for her contributions as a special education resource room teacher at Millwood Elementary. She was nominated by her colleagues for being an invaluable resource, going above and beyond to make education accessible to all students.
Honoring Secondary Nominees (00:01:39)
Jamie Parker introduces and honors secondary nominees for the Excellence in Education Award, highlighting their dedication and impact on students.

Jamie Parker, a special education compliance coordinator, introduces several secondary nominees for the Excellence in Education Award. The nominees include Ms. Carrie Berry, Ms. Mary Harmon, Mr. Hector Dominguez Woo, Ms. Jessica Fu, Ms. Caitlyn Yanga, and Ms. Heidi Ali. Each nominee is recognized for their exceptional contributions to special education and their positive impact on students and families.
Meeting Resumed and Behavioral Reports (00:12:53)
Discussion on the significant reduction in behavioral incidents and suspension rates, highlighting improvements in school climate and safety.

The meeting resumes with a report on the reduction of behavioral incidents and suspension rates. The discussion includes data analysis, the introduction of a truancy officer, and the implementation of support systems and mental health services. The improvements in school climate, teacher morale, and student safety are emphasized.
Public Comments on Library Staffing (00:35:53)
Community members express concerns over proposed library staffing cuts, emphasizing the importance of libraries for literacy and equity.

Several community members, including parents and librarians, voice their concerns about the proposed elimination of part-time library assistants due to budget constraints. They argue that libraries are crucial for student literacy, equity, and access to resources, and urge the board to reconsider the cuts.
Executive Session for Personnel Evaluation (00:49:07)
The board moves to a closed session for the periodic evaluation of the superintendent, discussing governance and community relations.

The board enters an executive session to conduct a periodic evaluation of the superintendent. The evaluation covers various aspects, including governance, board relations, community relations, and staff input. Trustees provide feedback and discuss the superintendent's performance and effectiveness.
Professional Development and Leadership (00:59:57)
Dr. Slate's leadership is praised for teacher development and classroom engagement.

Dr. Slate is recognized for his efforts in providing high-quality preparation and professional development for teachers. His focus on visiting classrooms and engaging with teachers and students has led to a noticeable decrease in call-ins and increased buy-in from leadership. Dr. Slate's delegation and the development of his leadership team are also highlighted as strengths, contributing to the overall improvement in school engagement.
Business and Finance Evaluation (01:04:01)
Superintendent rated effective in various financial management aspects.

The board evaluated the superintendent's performance in several business and finance categories, including budget development, financial controls, facility management, and resource allocation. The superintendent received a rating of 'effective' across all categories, reflecting stable and award-winning financial management. The discussion emphasized the importance of maintaining this stability amid future challenges.
Instructional Leadership Evaluation (01:06:42)
Superintendent rated effective in instructional leadership areas.

The superintendent was evaluated on performance evaluation systems, staff development, school improvement, curriculum, instruction, student voice, support for students, and professional knowledge. The superintendent received an 'effective' rating in all areas, demonstrating strong instructional leadership and commitment to ongoing training and development for staff and students.
Superintendent Evaluation Summary (01:13:02)
Dr. Slade receives effective rating in all evaluation areas.

The board conducted a comprehensive evaluation of Dr. Slade, resulting in an effective rating in all categories. His leadership has led to significant gains in attendance and academic performance, with improved graduation rates and strategic planning. Dr. Slade's efforts in engaging stakeholders and maintaining accountability and transparency were also praised.
Superintendent's Salary Adjustment Resolution (01:26:26)
Resolution to adjust Dr. Slade's salary to meet minimum standards.

The board passed a resolution to amend Dr. Slade's salary to match the minimum superintendent's salary per the excluded administrators' increment schedule. This adjustment reflects his performance and aligns with the board's evaluation results. The resolution was supported unanimously by the board members.
Remote Learning Policy for State Testing Days (01:26:46)
Adoption of remote learning policy during state testing days.

The board discussed and adopted a policy to implement remote learning for non-testing students during state-mandated high school assessments. The policy ensures compliance with state laws and mandates attendance for remote learning sessions, while testing students will attend in-person assessments.