The Board of Education met on Monday, October 23, 2006, and, among other items, tentatively approved a revised policy on middle school education. The Board reviewed an update on enrollment and the changing demographics of the school system. The Board also approved an administrative appointment.

Tentative Action on Policy IEB, Middle School Education

The Board tentatively approved revisions to Policy IEB, Middle School Education. The policy is designed to support the formulation of a comprehensive plan for middle school that increases and sustains student achievement. The revision was developed with the collaboration of a steering committee comprising community, parent, and student stakeholders, as well as representatives from school and administrative offices. Policy IEB provides direction for a rigorous and challenging middle school education program that improves teaching and learning, promotes continuous improvement in all middle schools, and ensures that all students are prepared for a successful high school experience.

Update on CIP/Enrollment

The Board received its annual update on preliminary enrollment and demographic trends affecting future enrollment. Following a national trend, enrollment in Montgomery County Public Schools is declining slightly this year, due in part to an increase in housing costs in Montgomery County and the change in dates that students could begin kindergarten this fall. The temporary leveling off of enrollment will provide an opportunity to significantly reduce the number of mobile classrooms. The school system continues to become more diverse. About 80 percent of all economically disadvantaged students attend schools in the focus area that runs through the center of the county. The presentation also included an overview of school facility issues and the upcoming FY 2008 amendments to the FY 2007-2012 Capital Improvements Program. Superintendent Jerry D. Weast will present the CIP amendments on October 30.

Appointment

The Board approved the following administrative appointment:

Julie S. Hall, currently acting administrative assistant, Office of School Performance, as administrative assistant, Office of School Performance.