Supt. of schools outlines key strengths and focus areas

After engaging with numerous stakeholders and collecting and analyzing dozens of data points throughout his first 10 months on the job, Canton Superintendent of Schools Derek Folan presented his final set of findings from his superintendent’s entry plan at last Thursday’s School Committee meeting.

The 2022 entry plan report, one of several components of the New Superintendent’s Induction Program that Folan is participating in, is notable for its candor as it outlines the district’s key strengths as well as “opportunities for inquiry, improvement and growth” across four key areas: achievement for all students; conditions for teaching and learning; educator experience; and district effectiveness/use of resources.

Drawing on everything from classroom observations to survey data to information gleaned from one-on-one discussions and interviews, the entry plan, according to Folan, proved to be a “tremendous learning opportunity” that was both “thought-provoking and inspiring.”

The good news, reported Folan, is that the school district is built on a “promising foundation,” rooted in the town’s “deep love and commitment to its students, educators and families,” emphasis on traditions, strong financial support, and strong desire for higher achievement. Additionally, Folan said Canton is primed to capitalize on several unique opportunities with support from the Mass. School Building Authority (MSBA) for a new or renovated middle school; a plan already in place to revise the district’s mission, vision and core values; and the start of a re-accreditation process at Canton High School in collaboration with the New England Association of Schools and Colleges.

On the other hand, Folan cautioned in his report that COVID-19 and its lingering impacts remain a “significant thread” for the present and future, with effects ranging from behavioral challenges to student learning needs to financial impacts.

Also of note, according to Folan, are the district’s “ever-changing enrollment demographics” and some population-specific trends that deserve attention, including consistently higher enrollment rates at the Hansen and Luce elementary schools; a greater number of families moving into the district financial needs; and a growing number of younger students who speak a variety of languages.

The following are some of the areas identified as needing improvement:

* Student performance data shows that selected populations are performing at a lower level than the overall population.

* Student behavior emerged as a major concern across all grade levels. Data called for more consistent documentation for behavior, student accountability, staff safety, communication and training for restorative practices …

See this week’s Citizen for additional highlights from the superintendent’s entry plan report, plus more news from the June 9 School Committee meeting. Spring Subscriber Promo: $30 for 1 year or $50 for 2 years for new in-town subscribers. Click here to order your subscription today!

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Posted by Mike Berger on Jun 17 2022. Filed under News, Schools. Both comments and pings are currently closed.