District proposes full-time literacy and math coaches, science specialist and shared secretary; board seeks metrics

Central administration presented a districtwide curriculum and staffing plan that would add a shared secretary for department chairs and directors, convert temporary coaching funding into two full-time coaching positions (one literacy coach and one math coach at 1.0 FTE each) to support K–6 instruction, and create an additional science specialist to expand hands-on laboratory experiences.

The curriculum director said the coaching model allows in-class modeling and continuity across buildings and noted that current coverage (a 0.2 math coach) is insufficient. "We're asking that one individual travel to all of the buildings to work with our new initiative ... providing support resources," the director said, adding that full-time coaches would reduce reliance on outside professional development. The director framed the coaches as teachers who would "be working under my oversight" but would not carry their own classroom assignments.

Board members pressed for concrete metrics and justification for converting temporary positions to permanent ones. One member asked what measures would demonstrate the return on investment—state assessment scores, retention, or other benchmarks—and requested an evaluation plan. The director agreed to prepare metrics and evaluation proposals.

The director also proposed expanding the science specialist role into a co-teach laboratory model to increase lab time, citing gaps in science lab exposure across grade levels and the district's goal to broaden science research and environmental projects. Board members raised concerns about the ongoing costs of sustained coaching and mentoring programs and asked for a timeline and assessment plan before permanent commitments.

There was no final vote on these staffing proposals during the meeting; the items remain proposals to be incorporated into the district budget and returned for board consideration.