Note: Recordings and documents for agenda items can be accessed via BoardDocs by clicking on the corresponding agenda items.

Standards-Based Electronic Grading System

The Instructional Supports Department presented information about a possible e-tool to aid in the implementation of an elementary Standards-Based Report Card. In 2013, the Board adopted a standards-based report card, and that started the process to find an electronic gradebook and assessment tool that would meet the needs of educators and ease communication between teachers and parents. ISD Administrator Kenna Sorensen presented the benefits and limitations of the systems piloted by 47 teachers from two dozen schools. Information about another system, which is a product of Instructure, which operates Canvas, also was presented. Once a gradebook is selected, the Instructional Supports would spearhead a districtwide roll-out, implementation, and professional development.

Canyons Education Foundation Update

The Canyons Education Foundation’s Development Officer presented information about the organization’s recent efforts. Denise Haycock says the foundation, which supports the mission of the District through private fund-raising, is focused on engaging with the community and building relationships. Haycock said the Foundation’s major events are the fall Golf Tournament and the Spring Gala. Last year, the Foundation awarded some 100,000 in Teacher Innovation Grants. It also provided up to $250 to every elementary school teacher for classroom materials, $70,000 in teacher classroom projects through Fuel Your School, and $10,000 for Utah College Application Week. The Foundation also gave scholarships and supported McKinney-Vento-classified students. 

Diamond Ridge High Update

Diamond Ridge High Principal Amy Boettger updated the Board on progress toward developing a comprehensive school improvement plan for Canyons’ non-traditional high school. The plan is required of all high schools with a graduation rate of 67 percent or lower by the federal Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA). Diamond Ridge’s graduation rate exceeds that of many other alternative high schools, which cater to students who seek a different learning environment. By reaching students at risk of dropping out, the school has directly contributed to Canyon’s District steadily rising graduation rate. But the ESSA law doesn’t differentiate between traditional and non-traditional high schools. The improvement plan involves implementing differentiated instructional strategies, providing additional professional development opportunities for faculty, and refining the use of data to guide instruction. 

Annual Report of CSD Committee on Human Sexuality

Instructional Supports Administrator Jesse Henefer provided a required update of work completed by the Canyons District Sex Education Instruction Committee for the 2018-2019 school year. The report informed the Board of any complaints or concerns received by the District related to the CSD’s sex education instruction or instructional programs. 

Early Literacy Program

Instructional Supports Director Dr. Amber Roderick-Landward presented the required Early Literacy Plan, as required by SB194.  Utah law requires schools to meet a state growth goal and at least one of two local growth goals. The report also establishes the literacy goals for Canyons teachers and students for the school year.

Patron Comments

Citing concerns about traumatic brain injuries, Dr. Steven Hummel asked the Board to consider stronger regulations on student activities, particularly soccer, during which students could suffer neurological damage.

Consent Agenda

The Board of Education voted to approve the Consent Agenda, including approval of minutes from the Aug. 6, 2019 meeting of the Board;  approval of minutes from the Aug. 6 Truth-in-Taxation hearing; hire and termination reports;  purchasing bids; student overnight travel; July financial reports; Foundation Board members; Diamond Ridge High’s plan for Comprehensive School Improvement; and the K-3 Literacy Report.  The Board approved a request from Jordan High cheer to travel to a Florida competition in February. This request was discussed during the study session.

Beverley Taylor Sorenson Partnership Update

Sharee Jorgensen, the arts consortium chair and ISD Teacher Specialist for the Arts, led a conversation with the Board of Education about Canyons’ BTS partnership programs. 

Superintendent, Business Administrator Reports

Superintendent Dr. Jim Briscoe thanked District staff, teachers and administrators for doing the behind-the-scenes work in preparing for our schools for the first day of school.

Business Administrator Leon Wilcox updated the Board on construction projects at Alta, Jordan, Corner Canyon, Brighton and Hillcrest. Crews also completed daylighting projects at eight elementary schools, and are completing major overhauls of Front Offices at three schools, he said. The addition at the central office could be done by the end of October, as well.  A federal lawsuit settlement with Volkswagen, which was accused of intentionally violating emission standards, will provide funding for half the cost of 13 alternative-fueled school buses.

Board Member Reports

Mr. Chad Iverson reported on attending Alta High’s Silver and Black Game, a Highland Invitational Cross Country Meet, and several parades to watch the All-District Marching Band.   He joked he’s getting ready for Superintendent Briscoe to call another Snow Day. 

Mrs. Clareen Arnold thanked the faculty and staff for their work getting the school year started

Mr. Steve Wrigley thanked Dr. Hummel for his remarks. He reported on attending the social-emotional learning conference in Salt Lake City, during which President Nancy Tingey participated in a panel discussion.  He also attended New Teacher Orientation, visited schools and cheered for students at first-day Red Carpet Events. He said teachers have told him they feel valued by the Board’s decision to implement a new salary schedule.   

Mrs. Amber Shill reported on attending the Utah School Boards Association delegate assembly where members voted on legislative priorities for the year. She attended first-day-of-school events, including Bella Vista Principal Sandra Dahl-Houlihan’s first day as principal of the school.

Mrs. Amanda Oaks reported on participating in first-day-of-school Red Carpet Celebrations.  She expressed thanks to employees for their hard work in preparing for the school year.  

Mr. Mont Millerberg thanked the patrons who spoke during the Truth-in-Taxation hearing. He said the excitement at the Red Carpet Celebrations was just as palpable today as it was 11 years ago on the first day of school. He looks forward to the first day of kindergarten on Thursday. 

President Tingey wished the community a great school year.