Superintendent's Briefing 11.1.24

November 15, 2024

2024 - 2025 PCS Priorities

Our FOCUS for 24-25, as aligned with the vision of the PCS and the PCS Strategic Plan, is clear:

• K -12 Literacy and Numeracy Achievement (Significant gains in student achievement)

• Extra and Co-Curricular Participation (Every student connected/engaged)

• PCS Graduates with CCRI and a Post-Secondary (100% CCRI and verified plan)

• Optimal Teaching and Learning Environment (PLCs district; student engagement, teacher retention; positive culture; would refer a friend to the PCS, “I love my school, administration, my colleagues, and my kids”)

Good Afternoon Board Members,

I hope this message finds you well. As we progressed through the week, I wanted to provide an update on some key activities, accomplishments, and focus areas within our district.

Article

How students are dodging cell phone restrictions

Board and Superintendent Conferences

As previously mentioned, a calendar of conferences for both the board members and myself will be on each board brief. Please let Mrs. Ham know if you want to attend a listed conference.

Farm City Poster and Essay Contest Reception

PCS students continue to excel! I’m proud to share that two of our LES scholars placed 1st, and two LES scholars placed 2nd in the poster contest. One CFA scholar placed 3rd in the essay contest. These scholars and their teachers received a monetary award at the reception. Every day is an excellent day in Phenix City Schools, and this is another moment we can all celebrate with pride.

Oragmetrics Proposal

This is a proposal for Infinity Systems to serve Phenix City Schools in their efforts and commitment to Alignment to Mission, Vision and Strategic Plan. This proposal outlines a plan to help Phenix City Schools leaders measure the current alignment levels as well as the baseline for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DE&I) climate. This comprehensive process is a powerful means of aligning and strengthening an organization’s link between its strategy, structure, culture, and talent.

The surveys assess the state of the culture within Phenix City Schools and will identify current strategies for the leadership team and staff throughout, while highlighting the areas for continued progress toward engagement goals. Please click on the link to view more information. Link

Principal Observations

Observations continue through December 12, 2024.

Public Relations Position

I am exploring ideas about this position. Currently, I still have access to the PR firm that was working with Ms. Underwood to complete projects we were working on. Dr. Jenkins, my executive coach, sent me the curriculum vita for a person we may be able to use in the meantime. This will be cost savings until we find a qualified person for the position. Please review the following document: Public Relations Vita and Contract.

State Report Cards

The district received notification of the release of report grades that are available for view. This information is embargoed until November 22, 2024. Principals and assistant principals have accessed the portal and know their assigned grade. I am inviting all of them to Thursday's board meeting.

Thank a Teacher Month

Teachers genuinely make a difference in the lives of our students —and together with the ALBOE Members, (State of Alabama Board Members) we want everyone across the state to let teachers know they are appreciated. Please join me in celebrating teachers this month and helping to promote the state initiative. Use the hashtag #ThankALTeachers.

United Way Celebration

Once again, our faculty, staff, and students went above and beyond in their fundraising efforts for United Way of the Chattahoochee Valley. We celebrated these achievements with students, sponsors, and representatives from each school and United Way. It was a fantastic event, and we’re already looking forward to exceeding our goal again next year! With student fundraisers and employee pledges, Phenix City Schools raised over $32,000.00.

Forecasting for Next Week

• November 19, 2024: Work session at 6:00 p.m.

• November 21, 2024: Board meeting at 6:00 p.m.

• November 22, 2024: Meeting to discuss Troy Educators Abroad

• November 25 - 29: Thanksgiving holiday; no school and all offices closed

• NEW for athletics: below are links to each school’s athletic schedule for all teams

• Central High School and Central Freshman Academy

• South Girard School

• Phenix City Intermediate School