The Board of Education met on Tuesday, November 9, and, among other items, approved policies on strategic planning and school counseling programs and services. The Board also approved material and curriculum revisions recommended by the Citizens Advisory Committee on Family Life and Human Development. In addition, the Board approved five administrative appointments and an appointment to the Interagency Coordinating Board. The observance of Veterans' Day and American Education Week also were approved.

Final Action on Policy AEB, Strategic Planning for Continuous Improvement

The Board approved revised policy AEB, "Strategic Planning for Continuous Improvement," following a period of public comment. The policy reflects the school system's strong commitment to strategic planning for continuous improvement in order to provide an effective instructional program, ensure success for every student, strengthen productive partnerships for education, and create a positive work environment in a self-renewing organization.

Final Action on Policy IJA, School Counseling Programs and Services

The Board approved revised policy IJA, "School Counseling Programs and Services," following a period of public comment. The policy conveys a vision for school counseling that is aligned with national standards, incorporates effective best practices, and supports the academic achievement of a diverse student population.

Appointments

The Board approved five administrative appointments:

· Brian K. Edwards, currently vice president of public affairs, Potomac, Inc., Bethesda, MD, as director of public information, Department of Communications

· Shelley Beddingfield, currently acting director, Division of Technology Support, as director, Division of Technology Support, Office of Strategic Technologies and Accountability

· Shelley A. N. Johnson, currently acting director, Division of Career and Technology Education, as director, Division of Career and Technology Education, Office of Curriculum and Instructional Programs

· Jeannie H. Franklin, currently acting coordinator of preferred choice, as coordinator of preferred choice, Northeast/Downcounty Consortia

· Shahpar Modarresi, currently supervisor of program evaluation, Division of Accountability, Prince George's County Public Schools, as coordinator of program evaluation, Department of Shared Accountability


Annual Report of the Citizens Advisory Committee on Family Life and Human Development and Staff Response

The Board approved the recommendation of curriculum and materials reviewed and evaluated by the Citizens Advisory Committee on Family Life and Human Development, with the exception of the video, "Hope is Not a Method." The Board also approved recommended changes to the Grade 8 and Grade 10 health education curricula.[See links below]

Appointment to Interagency Coordinating Board

The Board confirmed the superintendent's appointment of Jonathan Walker for a four-year term on the Interagency Coordinating Board for Community Use of Public Facilities.

Veterans' Day

The Board commended students, parents, staff, and the entire community for reflecting, commemorating, honoring, and celebrating the contributions of our veterans in observance of Veterans' Day on November 11.

American Education Week

The Board approved the observance of American Education Week in Montgomery County Public Schools from November 14 through November 20. The theme for this year is "Celebrating the American Dream."

Board of Education: Ms. Sharon W. Cox, president. Mrs. Patricia B. O'Neill, vice president. Members: Mr. Kermit V. Burnett, Dr. Charles Haughey, Mr. Walter N. Lange, Mr. Gabe Romero, and Mr. Sagar Sanghvi, student member. Dr. Jerry D. Weast, superintendent and secretary treasurer. Office of the Board: 301-279-3617.