Board Brief

As part of our district's commitment to open and transparent communication, we share this summary of Monday's school board planning work session.

The school board will take action at its Oct. 23 regular meeting on a proposed name for the combined career and technical education (CTE) center on Midland Avenue. In explaining the process, CTE Director Amanda Wickersham spoke of the change in perception of CTE and the importance of branding the new facility. The naming committee evaluated viable options through three feedback sessions and collected input from the community via a Google Form. The committee's final name recommendation represents what the new building will offer our community: Hub for Innovative Learning & Leadership (HILL). "It captures all of the various components for the facility," said board Chair Tyler Murphy. "It's CTE reimagined."

• View the CTE Naming Presentation

When Southside and Eastside techs merge in downtown Lexington, our students will benefit from state-of-the-art equipment, labs, and collaborative spaces that will also serve the larger community through adult education initiatives. The project's target completion date is February 2025, with the HILL slated to open that fall. For questions, email CTE Director Amanda Wickersham.

Aviation Adventure:

In a separate presentation to the board, Eastside instructor Nathan Hoskins shared highlights of his students' summer trip to Wisconsin for a weeklong aviation experience. A handful of students also spoke about how much they enjoyed the opportunity and what they learned about this exciting career path.

• View the AirVenture Highlights
• Read the Web Article

Under the Superintendent's Report, Director of Assessment Brooke Stinson reviewed the purpose and goals of MAP testing (Measures of Academic Progress) along with this fall's math and reading results from grades K-9. Sherri Heise and Edie Sohigian, directors in our Department of Teaching & Learning, also explained how such data affects our instructional practices and outlined professional learning opportunities in a coaching model. In addition, Raine Minichan, associate director in Student Support Services, talked about this month's DESSA, or Devereaux Student Strengths Assessment. DESSA is checking students' social and emotional competencies in eight areas, which will help our teachers plan appropriate supports and activities.

• View the Balanced Assessment Presentation

• Review the Oct. 9 planning agenda
• Listen to the entire meeting

The Fayette County Board of Education routinely meets twice a month, generally on the second and fourth Monday. The planning work session is an opportunity to receive extended presentations, review the agenda for the upcoming action meeting, and provide time for board members to ask questions and hold discussions with staff. The action meeting is when the board votes on proposals.

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