Committee debriefs River Terrace site visit, eyes practical‑studies diploma and CTE partnerships

Committee members reported on a recent site visit to River Terrace attended by representatives and district staff to learn about graduation pathways for students with disabilities and the practical‑studies diploma. Attendees met with principal Sepa, toured classrooms and discussed current student pathways and implementation questions.

Representative Thompson said the visit was informative and aligned with the committee’s work on graduation requirements and the practical‑studies diploma. She said she took instructional videos and would share them with the committee to inform the task‑force recommendation as it goes to the full board. Committee members noted the visit was more about implementation and pathways than standards feedback.

Members discussed scheduling additional site visits to IDEA and ATC and a potential visit to a carpenters union facility after a follow‑up conversation with union representatives. Dr. Grant from Monument was mentioned as interested in hosting a middle‑school visit showcasing SEAL program implementation.

Glenn Starns was identified as a district representative present during the River Terrace visit; attendees asked staff to prepare brief reports when site visits directly inform committee priorities. Members emphasized trying to visit elementary, middle and high schools to observe implementation across grade levels.

No formal decisions were taken; members agreed staff would coordinate scheduling and that site‑visit materials and highlights should be shared ahead of the next working session and the Director Butler briefing.