The GFW School Board met for a regular meeting on Monday, September 18, 2023. Watch the video on youtube and find updates below.
School and Community Recognition
The board celebrated the new staff members that are joining our district this school year. Four new staff members attended the meeting and shared a bit about their time so far in the district. Dr. Horton shared that it has been amazing getting to see the new staff connecting with students throughout the day and providing such wonderful opportunities for all of the young learner’s in our district.
Superintendent Report
Dr. Horton shared that the school year is off to a great start and thanks to feedback from the community, changes to the school calendar have been well received including holding back to school open houses and conferences. Parents shared that they did not feel rushed and students reported satisfaction with the schedule change process at the high school. Students who have transitioned from the elementary school to middle school had a very positive experience. Students are taking advantage of the new class offerings with fewer students taking study halls, instead opting to try new subject areas and grow their skills.
School Reports
Principal Thompson shared that more than 95% of families attended the meet and greets and that the year is off to a strong start. Fastbridge testing is complete and will inform data-driven decisions for students soon. Students are loving the new curriculum and staff are preparing to look into other curriculum needs in the future.
Principal Jacobson has been working hard at the Middle School and High School and is excited to be in the district and working with the wonderful students. She will continue to serve as part of the Continuous improvement team and is able to bring her leadership style to the schools and district.
Student representative Catherine Stoll shared that it is good to be back in school and that it is moving quickly so far. NHS will be holding their first meeting soon and FFA had a great summer with state fair achievements and are preparing for regular activities. The football team is off to a great start for the season and the district is excited to be celebrating homecoming this week. Volleyball and Cross Country are also doing very well so far and there is a lot of excitement for the year. She shared that Principal Jacobson wanted to pass along that it is exciting to have so many new students in the district and that Mr. Busse encouraged more students and community members to attend events.
Committee Reports
Board committees shared brief reports on the work they are doing with regular meetings taking place.
Consent Agenda
The board approved the consent agenda.
Resolutions and Action Items
The Board approved the proposed levy certification at the maximum amount with the actual amount being determined at their meeting in December.
The Board approved an absentee ballot board for the November 7 election.
The Board accepted donations from organizations and individuals.
Facility Project Update
Members of Wold Architects and Engineers and Kraus Anderson provided an update on the facility project. Visit the facility updates page for more information.
The board then adjourned the meeting.