BASD approved an updated charter school application policy and a dozen harassment policies at its board meeting Oct. 19. The charter school policy codifies practices that had been standard in the district, but had not been formalized. The harassment policies, created because of changes in federal Title IX harassment rules, set out the processes and personnel involved in sexual discrimination and harassment complaints by students and all types of district personnel.

All nine members were present. Nearly all measures passed by a vote of 9–0; there was one abstention with respect to two checks processed with the monthly bills.

The board also approved a reduction in the community service requirement for members of the class of 2021 at Freedom and Liberty. Because of extremely limited volunteer opportunities during the coronavirus public health emergency, the requirement of 60 hours has been reduced to 30 hours. Additionally, the board approved several contracts and a grant application that were discussed during a previous committee meeting.

As previously recommended by Asst. Supt. Dr. Jack Silva, the board approved payments of $1,545 per year to six teachers – one for each grade level – selected as grade leaders for the district’s eClassroom initiative. Students enrolled in eClassroom are participating in virtual-only education this year, instructed by a set of teachers who have opted into virtual-only education. Grade leaders for eClassroom provide guidance on best practices for instruction, assessment, and other components of virtual education.

During the public comment, Express-Times reporter Lynn Olanoff asked whether BASD had received any rapid coronavirus tests, and if not, whether any would be coming. Supt. Dr. Joseph Roy said that the schools are not approved by the state as a test site, so the district is working with local and state health departments to determine the best way for students and teachers to access the tests.

Matt Malozi addressed the board to express his enthusiasm for his Sept. 21 appointment to the BAVTS BASD financing authorities. He looks forward to serving the district, and noted that he is available to answer questions from the board and the public.

Dr. Roy reported to the board that there are three “active” coronavirus cases – cases reported within the last 14 days – in the schools, as well as an eClassroom student who has tested positive. Responding to Ms. Olanoff on how the school year is going, he said the district is considering bringing English Language Learners (ELL) into the classroom for more than two days per week, as well as some special education students, on a case by case basis.

Additionally, Dr. Roy said that the district is working to standardize best practices and expectations across all eClassrooms. The biggest concern, he said, is a lack of engagement from some students who are in eClassroom, as well as some students in the hybrid model (during their “home” days). An additional challenge is scheduling for high school teachers who are responsible for both in-class teaching and eClassroom teaching, to maximize direct student-teacher interaction.

The district is working on a parent survey to assess families’ views of the way the school year is going, as well as to seek input from parents on potential adjustments to the current educational delivery model.

Dr. Karen Beck Pooley reported on Northampton Community College (NCC), which is working on its diversity, equity and inclusion plan. NCC has launched an app to support students in staying enrolled and academically on track.

Dr. Kim Shively reported on Colonial Intermediate Unit 20 (CLIU20), which has been offering both virtual and in-person instruction this year. Dr. Shively also reported on Project Search, a CLIU20 program provided in partnership with Kalahari Resort in the Poconos; it provides internship opportunities to students, which have led to full-time employment for all participants in the past.