Verified EESAC Meeting Minutes

Approval of minutes: Mrs. Robledo called the meeting to order at 8:20 a.m. The minutes from Nov. 13, 2018, were reviewed and approved.

SIP Review: The EESAC is the sole body responsible for the approval and implementation of the School Improvement Process (SIP). Mr. Rivers explained that the new school initiatives – Mawi learning programs (focusing on growth mindset), Social Emotional Learning (building confidence and strengthening connections with peers and teachers) and Restorative Practices are having a positive impact on our school’s culture. He also said he advocates for giving students a voice. Mrs. Robledo asked Mr. Rivers to demonstrate the Circle Time procedures. He explained and demonstrated the technique.

Principal’s Message: Mrs. Stroleny welcomed all members back and said she hoped everyone had a happy Thanksgiving. Mrs. Stroleny then reviewed November highlights. The Civics workshop on Nov. 7 was well attended. Science Fair week (Nov. 13-16) and the FSA Science workshops were also successful. The seventh-grade field trip to Dave and Busters on Nov. 19 was well attended. The St. Augustine field trip was a big success. Presently iReady assessments are taking place in reading and math. Interim assessments allow us to see where students are at this point. Daily attendance has been better than 98 percent, and Mrs. Stroleny recognized Mrs. Castro for her diligence.

The school-wide Panorama survey data shows significant growth from spring 2018 to fall 2018 in three areas: School Safety with a 10 percent increase; Valuing of School with an 8 percent increase; and Sense of Belonging with a 3 percent increase. Security measures include locked doors, locked gates, one entrance, MDCPS police presence, and students wearing IDs. Other positive activities include Circle Time during homeroom, motivational quotes on morning announcements, more fun activities such as snow cones for each grade level, and club days moved to before school. Students also benefit from being allowed to study in homeroom. Other initiatives include mentoring and faculty/staff awareness.

Mrs. Stroleny then discussed upcoming events beginning with the Principal's Honor Roll Luncheon on Dec. 4. The NJHS Toy Drive is Dec. 5-17. On Dec. 6, our Principal Today will be Shirelle Jackson. The Islands of Adventure field trip for eighth-graders is Dec. 7.
Mrs. Stroleny wished Mrs. Robledo a happy birthday on Dec. 8. The Holiday Concert is on Dec. 11. Guest speaker Jose Ignacio Velenzuela will meet with Spanish students. German Winterfest is Dec. 14. The Holiday Luncheon sponsored by the PTSA is on Dec. 19. The Holidays Around the World Show coordinated by Mrs. Valdes is on Dec. 20. Kick-It-Up for seventh-graders is on Dec. 21. Winter recess is Dec. 24- Jan. 4.

Mrs. Stroleny thanked the PTSA for their Buzz News to recognize faculty and student achievements and school honors, adding that the PTSA does “a lot of heavy lifting.” Mrs. Stroleny finished by wishing all Happy Holidays!

Open Forum: Mrs. Daniel reported that girls’ varsity and junior varsity volleyball teams are in the playoffs and the boys’ teams will participate in the playoffs later this week. Boys’ softball is a new sport this year and has its first game this week. Miss Delgado reported that her classmates have given positive feedback about Circle Time. Dr. Garcia said 14 projects received Grand Prize and will represent Carver at the District Science Fair on Jan. 27. The Science department is working to participate in every SECME activity. He also said the District STEAM visit is upcoming.

Adjournment: Mrs. Robledo adjourned the meeting at 8:47 a.m.