The Board of Education met on Tuesday [October 12, 2004] and, among other items, reviewed the implementation of the grading and reporting policy. Members also reviewed a teacher centered model for technology use and appointed three administrators. The Board approved the observance of American Indian Heritage Month, recognized the winner of the Mark Mann Award, and designated a period for participation in the Montgomery County Public Schools Employees' Charity Campaign. The Board also received the resignation of member Dr. Henry Lee.

Implementation of Grading and Reporting

The Board discussed the status of the implementation of Policy IKA, Grading and Reporting, including the areas of professional development, information and outreach, and stakeholder involvement. A number of issues were targeted for clarification, including grading scales, guidelines for homework, and implementation at the high school level. Implementation plans include a phased-in evaluation process that mirrors the five-year implementation plan for the policy.


Teacher Centered Model Using Technology

The Board discussed new forms of classroom-level technology being implemented to improve, support, and simplify the work of teachers and principals in diagnosing the academic progress of students. This teacher centered model includes a hand held device now being used by primary grade teachers in selected schools to immediately record and review student performance assessment data in their classrooms.

Appointments

The Board approved the following administrative appointments:

· Todd M. Watkins, currently bus operations manager, Department of Transportation, as assistant director, Department of Transportation

· George L. Wimberly, currently research associate, Office of Policy Research, American College Testing, Inc., Iowa City, Iowa, as coordinator, assessment research, Department of Shared Accountability

· Marc J. Cohen, currently assistant principal, Long Reach High School, Howard County Public Schools, as supervisor of alternative programs, Department of Alternative Programs


Preliminary Plans for Watkins Mill Elementary School Addition

The Board approved preliminary plans for an addition to Watkins Mill Elementary School.

Montgomery County Community Crisis Mental Health Partnership

The Board discussed the formal partnership among the school system, the Mental Health Association of Montgomery County, and the Montgomery County Crisis Center that is designed to support schools and assist the community with mental health services in times of crisis.

Resignation of Board Member

Dr. Henry Lee, member of the Board of Education representing District 5, submitted his resignation, citing the need to spend more time with his three sons. The resignation is effective immediately. The Board of Education will move forward to appoint an individual to complete Dr. Lee's term.

American Indian Heritage Month

The Board approved the observance in November of American Indian Heritage Month, in recognition of the significant contributions of American Indians within the school system and in the broader community.

Mark Mann Award

The Board recognized Carole C. Goodman, principal of James Hubert Blake High School. Ms. Goodman recently received the 2004 Mark Mann Excellence and Harmony Award.

Montgomery County Employees' Charity Campaign

The Board designated fall 2004 as a period for participation in the Montgomery County Public Schools Charity Campaign and urged employees to demonstrate their commitment to addressing the needs of people who require support.