Copyright Joliet, IL Patch
Easton, Redding, and Region 9 school boards approved a climate survey and advanced a restorative practices policy. EASTON, CT — The Easton, Redding, and Region 9 Boards of Education met jointly Oct. 28 at Joel Barlow High School, approving a regional school climate survey and advancing a restorative practices policy for first reading. Superintendent of Schools Jason McKinnon opened the meeting by recognizing outgoing Region 9 board members Gwen Denny, Cheryl Graziano, and Kathy Thompson, whose terms end next month. McKinnon also discussed a potential five-year extension of the Central Office lease with the Town of Easton, which will be reviewed by the boards at their next Tri-Board meeting in January. Assistant Superintendent of Finance, Operations and Technology Sara Scrofani said the district will pursue the lease renewal and noted that Central Office staffing levels are expected to remain stable in the coming year. McKinnon also mentioned families in Redding receiving SNAP benefits could be affected by the ongoing federal government shutdown and encouraged community discussions about how to assist them. The boards unanimously approved the first reading of a new Restorative Practices Response Policy, which formalizes language clarifying that no student will be required to participate in restorative practices. The policy also adds a requirement for parental notification when a student is involved in restorative discipline. The Region 9 Board approved the first reading 7-0-1, with Thompson abstaining. The Redding Board approved it 5-0. The Easton Board approved it 4-0. The boards also reviewed and approved the ER9 School Climate Survey, which will be administered to students, staff, and parents between Nov. 6 and Nov. 21. Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction Alisha DiCorpo said the surveys align with state-mandated questions, with separate forms for students in grades 3–5, students in grades 6–12, staff, and parents or guardians. Teachers will review survey questions with younger students before participation, and families may opt out by Nov. 5. After a discussion about question phrasing and the inclusion of open-response options, the boards voted unanimously to approve the survey with minor edits. Board members also discussed the efficiency of joint committee meetings. Chair J. Parker said the current format reduces redundant smaller meetings, and members Graziano and Parkin agreed.
