Volume #7 - December 2024
Scouts in Action: Gifts of Leadership
Last month, I had the privilege of joining school board president Ed Tate in a meeting with local Scout Troop 147. Their insightful questions about school board decisions and planning showed awareness that promises great things for the future. From understanding how tax dollars support our schools to exploring the importance of long-term facilities planning, these young leaders showed remarkable curiosity and civic awareness.
The meeting gave these scouts the knowledge and experience to earn their badge, but in the process, I gained so much more. Seeing our work from their perspective made me see things anew and appreciate the many gifts our Council Rock community gives through its collective commitment to education and progress.
Key Updates: Turning Plans into Progress
2024 has been a year of meaningful action, moving forward on several long-standing challenges that have lingered for years.
Full-Day Kindergarten
Registration for full-day kindergarten is open! While months in the planning, this transformative program has been years in the making as a top priority on the wishlists of so many Council Rock parents. Visit the district’s FDK hub for more about the program and share the news with neighbors.
Facilities Master Plan
Debuting in January, the Facilities Master Plan addresses capacity challenges facing some of our elementary schools, potential updates to the Chancellor Center, and improvements at North High. This long-anticipated roadmap represents a significant step forward for the district.
Education Committee Report
At our recent Education Committee meeting, we explored key initiatives that showcase the progress Council Rock has achieved this year:
MTSS: Supporting Every Student's Success
Our Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) program combines universal strategies with targeted interventions to address the needs of every student. This three-tiered system has already positively impacted academic, behavioral, and social-emotional growth across the district. This year, the SEL survey provided valuable insights into student well-being, helping shape how we tailor social-emotional supports under the MTSS framework. We'll share more about the next steps in upcoming newsletters.
Building Bridges in Special Education
Under the leadership of Amanda Sirine, our new Supervisor of Curriculum and Specialized Instruction, and the Special Education Parent Advisory Council (CPAC), the district is strengthening communication and resources for families. A recent CPAC meeting brought together parents, educators, and leaders to craft actionable plans, ensuring every student can thrive academically and socially.
Personal Finance: Preparing Students for Real Life
Starting in 2026, personal finance will become a required high school course. Covering budgeting, banking, and insurance, this course equips students with essential skills to succeed in the real world.
Council Rock North Earns Heart Safe Designation
Council Rock North is now a Heart Safe School, prepared for cardiac emergencies thanks to training and protocols. This designation reflects our commitment to the health and well-being of every student and staff member.
Looking Ahead
As 2025 begins, I reflect on the strides we’ve made together this year. From full-day kindergarten to critical planning initiatives, each achievement highlights the power of collaboration. Thank you for being so supportive—let’s keep building opportunities for our students and community in the year ahead.
January Meeting Schedule
Thursday, January 2: Facilities Committee
Thursday, January 9: Finance Committee
Thursday, January 16: Board of School Directors
Thursday, January 23: Education Committee
All meetings are at 7 PM in the Chancellor Center (30 Chancellor Street, Newtown, PA).
Note: The opinions expressed in this newsletter are not official statements made on behalf of the entire Council Rock school board or Council Rock administration. It is for informational purposes and responses or inquiries cannot be made in an official school district manner.