SOMSD

Vicky Johnson says her granddaughter was “traumatized” by her experience at Columbia High School, and is worried that special ed students get “lost between the cracks.”

Supt. Bing said the district would hold transportation meetings with community members in the coming weeks. “We are looking for better and intentional methods to gather input from stakeholders around such topics as transportation.”

Bing said revamping math is a “major change” and noted “the resources and curriculum we were using were fine 10 years ago but are not fine for students now.”

“There’s been a lot going on and we’re getting to the deadline, and I think we’re just going to make it by the skin of our teeth,” said Supt. Bing. Improvements – and some continued work – at CHS, Marshall, Montrose and MMS will greet students upon their return.

Pres. Telesford said the board will change how it operates “because I believe our role should be as a collaborative and productive partner working with district administration.” Also, the Special Ed committee will be elevated to a standing committee.

New Asst. Supt. of Special Services and first female Athletics Director, CHS Assistant Principal and Assistant Business Admin are among those hired for 2024-25

“Part of that will be how do we monitor progress in the school district? Because I think that’s one of the major areas that where I think our board can see improvement.” — BOE President Dr. Qawi Telesford

The wide-ranging interview covered topics such as the Fergus recommendations, the code of conduct, Board of Education functionality, communications, data, equity, hiring and retention, and more.

Writing, Newsletters, and In-House Video Production win SOMSD Communications recognition.

Meanwhile, a resolution to reinstate Frank Sanchez as Columbia High School Principal is on the June 27 Board of Education meeting agenda.