The first-ever online Neenah Joint School District Board of Education on April 7 consisted primarily of discussion around the digital learning environment taking place while schools are closed.
Dr. Mary Pfeiffer credited the instructional technology staff and teaching staff for their diligence since March 17 in creating a quality educational experience for students. Director of Instructional Technology Matt Anderson also spoke about some of the successes and challenges of digital learning so far. Board members asked questions about the process and also praised the teachers and technology staff for their efforts.
Pfeiffer noted that some districts around the state have already made decisions about grading for the spring semester, but she didn’t want to rush into a decision with the possibility that students will still return to school. She also said that the Board will have the final decision in regards to grading practices. Pfeiffer added that there is still hope to hold a prom and other senior events at some point. Graduation is still undetermined, but she said the District plans to hold a ceremony, even if it is during the summer or over winter break in late 2020.
Pfeiffer also provided an update on referendum voting. All voting was to conclude by 8 p.m., but results will not be tabulated until April 13. Absentee votes needed to be postmarked by April 7 and would be received until 4 p.m. on April 13.
In action items, the Board approved hires for Sarah Donner as a counselor at Lakeview and Roosevelt, Andrew Mayer as a teacher at Lakeview and Alexis Watt as a teacher Wilson. Educational assistant hires included Tanya Fox at Spring Road, Wendy Mendez at Wilson and Lori Casey at Washington. The end-of-school year resignation for Alliance teacher Virginia Peters was also approved.
The meeting concluded with a discussion about the role of student representatives on the Board as a potential future agenda item.
The next meeting is on April 21 and will also be conducted online. A link is available in the meeting information on BoardDocs and on the Board of Education website.
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