- School Board Update – September 2009
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Hard to believe, but summer is over and school has been back in
session for 3 weeks. If you’re like me, it’s been a bit of a
whirlwind!
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Things have been busy on the School Board. Below are a few
highlights that might interest you. As always, I welcome your
comments and feedback.
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- Superintendent’s Evaluation
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On Monday 8/31 we had a called meeting to discuss and vote on our
annual evaluation of Dr. McIntyre. We evaluated him in four major
areas: student achievement, strategic planning, effective use of
resources, and community and parent engagement.
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- You can read the narrative evaluation on-line. In sum, it was
very positive in all areas. The Board believes it's premature to
give him credit (or blame) for this year's academic results, but
he's laid the groundwork for tangible improvements in the future.
The evaluation was approved unanimously.
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- The Board also agreed to extend Dr. McIntyre's contract by one
year, through August, 2013. Since we're pleased with his performance
and since we just adopted a detailed 5-year strategic plan with lots
of measurable goals, a contract extension seems like a good idea. It
passed 8-1, with one Board member (Bratton) opposing the extension
on the principle that he prefers 3-year contracts, regardless of
performance.
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- 5-Year Strategic Plan
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In July the Board approved a 5-year strategic plan that was
developed by Dr. McIntyre, with input from stakeholders across the
community. I am impressed with the plan, the level of detail, the
concrete objectives and measurable outcomes. You can read the
entire document or an Executive Summary at www.knoxschools.org.
This is a blueprint for how the Board and administration will pursue
our goals over the next 5 years.
- I’m excited to have an ambitious plan and will do everything I
can to support its effective implementation.
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- Elected Chair for another year
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Last night we had our annual vote for Chair and Vice Chair. I will
remain Chair for another year and Thomas Deakins was elected Vice
Chair. Both votes were unanimous. Being Chair is demanding, but I
appreciate the opportunity to serve in this role. We may not offer
as much drama as some other governing bodies, but we do get a lot
done!
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- Lockett Resolution
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Last night we also passed a resolution stating we will no longer
seek or accept legal advice from Bill Lockett until further notice.
The resolution is in response to his current legal/ethical troubles.
We will continue to be represented by other staff members of the
Law Department.
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- Paperless Meetings and Greater Accessibility
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The Knox County Board of Ed has paperless meetings now. Not only
does this save a lot of trees, it also makes our meetings much more
accessible. Our entire agenda, including all back-up material for
each agenda item, is available on-line at knoxschools.org, under
Board of Education.
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- Thanks to the help of a lot of people, it's been a seamless
transition. I love the digital agendas!
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- Flu in our Schools
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Flu is definitely in our schools. Both my kids and husband have it,
but fortunately mild cases. Please wash your hands a lot and stay
home if you're sick!
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- Thanks for reading this and keep in touch.
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- Very Truly Yours,
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- Indya
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