The Ed-Watch series is designed to increase access to information on what decisions are being made regarding public education in Clark County and Nevada.
Clark County School District Board of Trustees
What is the Board of Trustees & what are they responsible for? The CCSD Trustees are publicly elected decision-makers for the school district. They are responsible for providing oversight to the Superintendent and establishing District-wide policy. Trustees are accountable to work with their communities to improve student achievement.
How often does the Board of Trustees meet? Trustees meet twice per month (second and fourth Thursdays) at 5 pm. While all meetings are typically held at the Edward A. Greer Education Center (Board Room): 2832 E. Flamingo Road, Las Vegas, NV 89121, all meetings are now held virtually due to the COVID-19 crisis.
Can community members engage at Trustee Meetings? Decision-making bodies benefit greatly from hearing public input and multiple perspectives. Currently, members of the public can submit comments on agenda and non-agenda items through email or voice recording. Public comment can be submitted by email to Boardmtgcomments@nv.ccsd.net. To submit a voice recording on items listed on the meeting agenda, call 702-799-1166. Voice recorded public comment is limited to 1 minute 30 seconds.
Thursday, February 11, 2021
Clark County School District Board of Trustees Meeting
Members of the public can provide comment on the policy and regulation by March 11th on the CCSD Board Policies page. This item will come back before the board for approval at the Marth 11 Trustee Meeting.
Board Approved Memorandum of Agreements (MOA) with Collective Bargaining Units
The Clark County Educators Association MOA is specific to Special Education teachers, and includes training on de-escalation and use of restraint, priority COVID-19 testing, and mandatory updates to student Independent Education Plans (IEPs) to be inclusive of in-person and at home learning.
The Clark County Association of School Administrators and Professional-Technical Employees MOA includes mandatory, random COVID-19 testing for principals and administrators and adjustments to use of leave time.
The Education Support Employees Association MOA includes mandatory, random COVID-19 testing for support employees, as well as one-time stipends of $3,000 to safety assistants to work in campus isolation rooms for students displaying COVID-19 symptoms.
The Ed-Watch series is designed to increase access to information on decisions being made regarding public education in Clark County and Nevada.
Nevada State Board of Education
What is the State Board of Education & what are they responsible for? The Nevada State Board of Education adopts regulations based on Nevada laws, which are passed down to individual school districts in Nevada to implement. The Board has 11 total (7 appointed and 4 publicly elected) members.
Can community members engage at State Board Meetings?
A time for public comment is provided at the beginning (for agenda items) and at the conclusion (on any matter) of each Board meeting. There is a time limit of three minutes per speaker. Members of the community providing testimony must fill out a visitor card, available on-site the day of the meeting.
Members of the public provided testimony regarding:
Concerns about the implementation of the reorganization of the Clark County School District and changes that could impact school principal decision making
Concerns about adequate revenue to fund education
Concerns about the appropriate use of data from recently administered assessments
Superintendent’s Report
State Superintendent Ebert report highlights:
Legislative Engagement: Department staff recently presented to the Legislative Committee on Education regarding the Teacher Recruitment and Retention Taskforce. Additionally, the Interim Legislative Committee on Education has selected school bus safety inspections as a topic of an upcoming bill draft request for the legislative session.
National Equity Project: Department staff have been working to develop and deliver professional d equity. In collaboration with the National Equity Project, has delivered two trainings to NDE staff.
Teacher Licenses: To help alleviate the negative impact of COVID-19 on licensed teachers, the Department has issued a six-month extension to any licensee with an expiring license.
Board Approved Definition of At-Risk for Funding Formula
In follow up to discussions at the August 27 and October 8 Board meetings, an updated definition of the “at-risk” category for the Pupil Centered Funding Formula was approved by the Board. A pupil is “at-risk” if the pupil has an economic or academic disadvantage such that they require additional services and assistance to enable them to graduate with their cohorts. The term includes, without limitation, pupils who are members of economically disadvantaged families, pupils who are at-risk of dropping out of high school, and pupils who do not meet minimum standards of academic proficiency. The term does not include pupils with a disability or pupils who are English Learners.
Senate Bill 108, passed during the 2017 Legislative Session, required the State Board to create a subcommittee to study the manner to incorporate instruction concerning crimes that frequently involve people under 18 years old into social studies units. The subcommittee convened and provided the following recommendations:
Content should be addressed in age appropriate manner
Content should be delivered as part of an existing lesson
Appropriate professional learning should be provided to educators
Existing resources and lessons should be differentiated starting in the primary grades
Districts should work with external partners to accomplish the requirements of the bill
The Department of Education is working to implement the recommendations, first by curating a list of high quality instructional materials to be ready by summer 2021. Additionally, the Department will provide professional development opportunities for educators to learn how to incorporate materials into content areas by winter 2021.
Board Approved Investigation Into AB469 Implementation
Assembly Bill 469, passed by the Nevada Legislature in 2017, outlines the reorganization of large school districts in Nevada. The intent of AB469 is to provide increased localized decision making at school sites by principals and school organizational teams. Issues with the implementation of this bill were discussed by the Board regarding the placement of licensed and qualified teachers in vacant classrooms, specifically the authority to select staff, purchasing of equipment, services & supplies available from the District by schools, and school carry forward of year‐end fund balances.
Board members approved a directive to Department staff to complete an investigation into these issues and the implementation of the bill. The investigation will include any noncompliance with the implementation under the purview of the State Superintendent of Public Instruction as well as areas of ambiguity that can be addressed by the regulatory authority of the State Board of Education.
Board Heard Update on MAP Data and Read by Grade 3 Educator Supports
Representatives of NWEA provided Board members with an update on results from Measures of Academic Progress (MAP) growth assessment testing throughout the state. The MAP assessment was completed by students in various settings, including at home and in-person. NWEA representatives shared that this data should be considered as one point among many. Board members discussed the need to ensure that testing is accurate and variables, such as parental support during at-home testing, are controlled for to ensure that data provided is meaningfully related to student academic growth.
Additionally, the Board heard updates from Department Staff on supports that have been provided to educators regarding the Read by Grade 3 initiative. Department staff have been providing open “office hours” for general Q&A, ongoing updates regarding the impact of COVID-19, professional development sessions and workshops, and technical assistance in the form of memos and implementation guides for educators.
Board Heard District & School Operations and Education during COVID-19
Superintendents of three school districts and student representatives from across Nevada each provided updates to the Board on the implementation of school reopening.
Humboldt County School District (HCSD):
HCSD is engaged in hybrid learning for elementary and middle schools, with the combined school fully in person. All students have the option to continue with distance learning only.
HCSD has implemented social emotional learning supports including restorative practices and positive behavior intervention supports.
HCSD used AB3 funds to implement quality distance learning instruction for all HCSD students.
Click here to see the Humboldt County presentation
Lyon County School District (ECSD):
LCSD K-2 students and other specific populations are attending in-person full time. A hybrid model is being used, as well as a full distance learning option.
LCSD has implemented social emotional screeners for students in K-12, in addition to the implementation of social emotional learning curriculum.
LCSD used AB3 funding to purchase chromebooks as well as Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
85% of WPCSD students are engaged in in-person learning.
WPCSD is focused on social emotional learning, including a two-day professional development workshop for all staff.
WPCSD is anticipating another 200 devices and 20 hotspots for students.
Click here to see the White Pine County presentation
Students from across the state provided the Board with information about how distance learning has impacted them and their peers. Students outlined issues with keeping up with school work amidst family responsibilities, concerns about their own and their peers’ mental health, issues with motivation, and the need for social interaction with peers.
Board Heard Updates to Regulations
R135-20, Crisis, Emergency, and Suicide Response Plans (Approved)
This regulation requires that the Department research best practices and develop a framework for schools and districts to appropriately respond to crises, emergencies, and suicide. The updates to this regulation were approved.
Regulation R064-20, Social and Environmental Factors (Not Approved)
This regulation requires that districts and charter schools assess the social and environmental factors that impact students’ educational experience, such as access to food, as well as plans to mitigate those factors. The Board discussed the need to ensure that requirements for schools do need exceed their current capacity without additional funds to supplement the completion. The Board directed staff to revise the regulation to remove cost-bearing requirements that are not attached to additional funds.
The Ed-Watch series is designed to increase access to information on what decisions are being made regarding public education in Clark County and Nevada.
Clark County School District Board of Trustees
What is the Board of Trustees & what are they responsible for? The CCSD Trustees are publicly elected decision-makers for the school district. They are responsible for providing oversight to the Superintendent and establishing District-wide policy. Trustees are accountable to work with their communities to improve student achievement.
How often does the Board of Trustees meet? Trustees meet twice per month (second and fourth Thursdays) at 5pm at the Edward A. Greer Education Center (Board Room): 2832 E. Flamingo Road, Las Vegas, NV 89121.
Can community members engage at Trustee Meetings? Decision-making bodies benefit greatly from hearing public input and multiple perspectives. Community members can sign up to speak after the agenda has been posted– by calling the Board Office at (702) 799-1072 at least 3 hours before the scheduled meeting, or signing up in-person at the beginning of the meeting. Prior to each agenda item being voted on, speakers can share their perspective after the Board’s discussion and prior to the vote.
Thursday, October 22, 2020
Clark County School District Board of Trustees Meeting
Members of the public submitted comments online. Public comment was not read directly into the record, and rather an oral summary of each comment was provided to Trustees.
Click here & here to view public comment submitted on agenda items.
Click here to view public comment submitted on non-agenda items.
Trustees Approved Consent Agenda
Highlights:
Purchase awards totalling $1.1 million, including $580,000 for medical equipment and furniture for students with disabilities.
Contract with Rethink Ed for a web-based package of supports for students on the Autism Spectrum.
Trustees Discussed Agreement for School Psychologist Contractors
The 5-year agreement with Jackson Therapy Partners, LLC provides for a limited number of school psychologist contractors to be placed in schools when the district is unable to recruit and directly hire individuals to fill school psychologist vacancies. Trustees discussed the need for a long-term strategy to strengthen the school-based mental health professional pipeline and improve working conditions for CCSD school psychologists. This item will come back before the board in November.
The Susan Brager Occupational Education Scholarship provides $1,000 for an eligible CCSD high school senior engaged at least two years of occupational education. The scholarship is administered annually through the Public Education Foundation.
Trustees Approved Contract with Applied Analysis
State law authorizes the Board of Trustees to issue general obligation bonds for the construction, design or purchase of new school buildings, remodeling and repairing existing buildings and ground, and acquiring sites for building schools. Trustees approved a contract with Applied Analysis, an economic and policy research analysis firm, to develop a legislative strategy that extends the district’s bonding authority for at least 10 additional years.
Trustees heard a presentation on the COVID-19 positivity rates from Dr. Fermin Leguen, Acting Director of the Southern Nevada Health District (SNHD). Dr. Leguen shared that it is unlikely that metrics originally set to signal the safe reopening of CCSD schools will meet acceptable levels for reopening in the near future. Based on this, along with consideration of the impact of distance education on student learning, mental health, and community stability, Dr. Leguen shared that SNHD would be supportive of CCSD reopening under a hybrid-model with continued implementation of mitigation strategies such as mask-wearing and social distancing. Trustees expressed concerns about the safety of students and staff upon reopening with high positivity rates in the County. There is no current timeline for CCSD schools to reopen in-person.
Trustees also provided considerations for the district’s reopening plan, to be presented to Trustees at the November 12 meeting. Suggestions included:
Prioritize in-person learning for young students, students with highest needs, and those least successful in distance learning
Limit interaction between groups of students and adults
Ensure employees have the option to continue to work from home
Create an audit and monitoring system for ventilation improvements at school sites
Create a comprehensive communication plan that outlines mitigation strategies and prepares the public in advance for the pivot to in-person school
Convene mental health professionals and experts within the district to identify social-emotional support strategies
The Ed-Watch series is designed to increase access to information on what decisions are being made regarding public education in Clark County and Nevada.
Clark County School District Board of Trustees
What is the Board of Trustees & what are they responsible for? The CCSD Trustees are publicly elected decision-makers for the school district. They are responsible for providing oversight to the Superintendent and establishing District-wide policy. Trustees are accountable to work with their communities to improve student achievement.
How often does the Board of Trustees meet? Trustees meet twice per month (second and fourth Thursdays) at 5pm at the Edward A. Greer Education Center (Board Room): 2832 E. Flamingo Road, Las Vegas, NV 89121.
Can community members engage at Trustee Meetings? Decision-making bodies benefit greatly from hearing public input and multiple perspectives. Community members can sign up to speak after the agenda has been posted– by calling the Board Office at (702) 799-1072 at least 3 hours before the scheduled meeting, or signing up in-person at the beginning of the meeting. Prior to each agenda item being voted on, speakers can share their perspective after the Board’s discussion and prior to the vote.
Thursday, October 8, 2020
Clark County School District Board of Trustees Meeting
Members of the public submitted comments online. Public comment was not read directly into the record, and rather an oral summary of each comment was provided to Trustees.
Click here to view public comment submitted on agenda items.
Click here and here to view public comment submitted on non-agenda items.
Trustees Approved Consent Agenda
Highlights:
Amendment of the Interlocal Contract to allow CCSD to bill for the maximum amount of services allowed in the newly expanded School Health Services program
Approval of purchase awards totaling nearly $3 million, including $1 million for K-12 reading programs and $350,000 for school ventilation equipment
Approval to enter into a professional services agreement for test and balance services in support of an unnamed elementary school
Approval of CCSD Regulation and Policy updates outlined at the September 10th Board meeting
Trustees Approved Title IX Resolution
At the September 10th board meeting, Trustees voted to postpone the vote on the Title IX Resolution over Trustees’ concerns with the implications of the changes. At the request of one of the Trustees, language has been added in the second resolution which now requires the Board of Trustees to approve policy to implement Title IX regulations and includes policies based on sexual orientation and gender identity.
The resolution does not change any regulations; rather, the resolution states the District’s compliance with federal law and the Board fulfillment of all requirements with the exception of amending or modifying the regulations in due time.
Trustees Heard Update on the CCSD’s COVID-19 Response
Health Information: The Board heard a presentation on the COVID-19 response from Dr. Fermin Leguen, Acting Director of the Southern Nevada Health District (SNHD). Dr. Leguen outlined the factors SNHD is tracking with regards to opening schools, based on CDC recommendations and guidance. Along with the COVID-19 positivity rate for CCSD students and staff, factors include the 14-day community infection rate. As of October 1, 2020, the Clark County community transmission rate indicates higher risk of transmission in schools.
Between September 27 to October 1, 172 children in Clark Country between the ages of 0-17 years have been diagnosed with COVID-19. SNHD is considering the implications of this data as it relates to sending children back to school in close contact.
Following Emergency Directive 033, which adjusts the limitation on public gatherings from 50 to 250 people (or 50% of occupancy, whichever is less), SNHD will continue to monitor the behavior of COVID-19 and its potential to impact transmission in schools. At this time, there is no recommendation for schools to reopen.
Task Force Initiative for Educators’ Safety and Screening: CCSD staff will have access to free COVID-19 testing through the Task Force for Educator’s Safety & Screening (TIES) program. CCSD General Council is considering a contract with emocha Health to monitor TIES. Following concerns Trustees expressed at the September 24 board meeting with regard to requiring employees to get tested and the implications on confidentiality, the TIES program will be provided on a voluntary basis for participating staff. Staff would also be required to complete the ongoing CCSD required health checks while they are on campus. Student testing was not discussed.
Mental Health: Trustees heard a presentation on the mental health supports in place by CCSD personnel, mental health data points, the complexities of dealing with mental health through the supports, and the need to be agile to prepare for a scenario where distance education continues for a longer period of time.
CCSD personnel involved in mental health supports:
Wraparound Services: CCSD has a total of 254 social workers–100 full-time CCSD staff and 154 contracted social workers through Progressus. The ratio of CCSD social workers is 1 to 1,174 students.
Guidance & Counseling: The ratio of counselors is 1 to 400 high school students, 1 to 500 middle school students, and 1 to 640 elementary school students.
Psychological Services: There is 1 psychologist to 1,850 students; the national recommendation is 1 to 700.
Health Services: School nurses are part of the teams at school sites involved in suicide ideation and supports.
Data Points: Trustees heard data on a number of mental health areas, including:
Specialized Instructional Support Personnel (SISP) referrals increased from 10,667 in August/September 2019 to 15,641 in August/September 2020.
CCSD experienced decreases in Department of Family Services (DFS) submissions by staff and community members.
Student suicide ideation reports decreased, potentially due to a lack of face-to-face contact with psychologists and counselors that would normally lead to ideation reports.
From June 2020 to October 1, 2020, CCSD police made 81 home visits in response to suicide ideations.
CCSD safe school professionals, social workers, and mental health professionals conducted 23,825 wellness checks
Supports for CCSD staff: CCSD staff engaged with social-emotional professional learning via Canvas in August, which included Trauma 101 professional learning, suicide protocol training, and self-care for educators. Virtual webinars will soon be made available to support CCSD staff on subjects such as coping with anxiety during COVID-19. CCSD staff will continue to have access to the Life Connection Employee Assistance Program, provided through Behavioral Healthcare Options.
Student Enrollment & Attendance:
Funded enrollment: As of October 1, enrollment is down 4% (or 12,622 students) from prior year. According to CCSD, the majority of the decline can be attributed to the White/Caucasian student population, which was down 7,222 students (or 9.5%) from prior year. Pre-K through 3rd grade enrollment is down 8,167 students (or 8.5%) from prior year.
Withdrawals from the district: Compared to the prior year, private school withdrawals are up over 1,000 and charter school withdrawals are up over 2,000. Homeschool withdrawals are up approximately 2,000 from prior year.
Intent to homeschool: Intents to Homeschool were submitted for 2,122 CCSD students as of September 16.
For the week ending September 18, overall attendance was 90.6% as compared to 94.8% during the comparable 4th week of instruction in the prior year.
Lesson Learned: Trustees heard a presentation on lessons learned from current instructional models and telecommuting responsibilities by other school systems and districts. In a review of 10 representative sample districts, seven are currently operating with full-time distance education, three are currently in transition to a hybrid model, and none currently reporting a full-time face-to-face for the majority of their students.
In a number of districts with plans to transition from full-time distance to hybrid models in January 2021, supervisors will have the discretion to direct staff to return to work locations. Other districts may consider requiring staff to return to work locations to deliver online instruction even though students will not be present. Districts will revisit employee-work expectations prior to transitioning to hybrid models.
Staff Transition to Face-to-Face Instruction Questionnaire:
Last week, CCSD conducted a survey to find out how CCSD school staff feel about returning to work. Responses were received from approximately 80% of CCSD school staff.
Survey results:
55% said ‘Yes’ when asked if they were planning to return to work locations if the option to telecommute in a hybrid or full-time model remains available.
17% indicated that they would return to work locations only if the District resumes within the full-time face-to-face model.
28% indicated that they did not want to return to work.
The Board interprets this data as the staff’s desire to continue to telecommute due to concerns around community health data or a number of staff members with young children at home who would not have supervision. CCSD will need the majority of staff to return to work to implement a hybrid or full-time face-to-face model.
Click here to see the presentation. Click here to see supplemental student enrollment and attendance data.
Click here to read about this in the Las Vegas Review-Journal.
Sign up to receive a notification when a new Ed-Watch post is published:
The Ed-Watch series is designed to increase access to information on what decisions are being made regarding public education in Clark County and Nevada.
Clark County School District Board of Trustees
What is the Board of Trustees & what are they responsible for? The CCSD Trustees are publicly elected decision-makers for the school district. They are responsible for providing oversight to the Superintendent and establishing District-wide policy. Trustees are accountable to work with their communities to improve student achievement.
How often does the Board of Trustees meet? Trustees meet twice per month (second and fourth Thursdays) at 5pm at the Edward A. Greer Education Center (Board Room): 2832 E. Flamingo Road, Las Vegas, NV 89121.
Can community members engage at Trustee Meetings? Decision-making bodies benefit greatly from hearing public input and multiple perspectives. Community members can sign up to speak after the agenda has been posted– by calling the Board Office at (702) 799-1072 at least 3 hours before the scheduled meeting, or signing up in-person at the beginning of the meeting. Prior to each agenda item being voted on, speakers can share their perspective after the Board’s discussion and prior to the vote.
Thursday, September 24, 2020
Clark County School District Board of Trustees Meeting
Members of the public submitted comments online. Public comment was not read directly into the record, and rather an oral summary of each comment was provided to Trustees.
Click here & here to view public comment submitted on agenda items.
Click here & here to view public comment submitted on non-agenda items.
Item 3.01, Approval of Meeting Minutes for the Special Board Meeting on July 29, 2020 and Worksession on August 5, 2020, was removed from the agenda for additional review.
Trustees Approved Contract for Professional Learning and Coaching Services
The contract with the National Center on Education and the Economy Center on System Leadership provides for the purchase of National Institute of School Leadership programming, which provides professional learning and coaching services for schools. Trustees discussed the critical need to ensure that teachers and administrators are representative of the diverse student population, including the need to prioritize educators of color for leadership opportunities.
Click here to view the contract reference material.
Trustees Heard Presentation on 2020 SPCSA Charter School Applications
In accordance with Assembly Bill 462 of the 2019 Legislative Session, the State Public Charter School Authority notified the Clark County School District of charter school applications under consideration in the Clark County geographic footprint. The potential schools reviewed by CCSD staff included Eagle Charter School of Nevada, Las Vegas Montessori Charter School, Pioneer Technology and Arts Academy, Sage Collegiate Academy, and Wallace Stegner Academy. CCSD staff contended that none of the potential schools meet standards for approval.
Trustees approved an employment agreement with Fikisha Miller as Chief Negotiator and Assistant General Counsel for the district. Trustees welcomed Fikisha Miller and expressed that they would like the needs of Trustees to be prioritized by Counsel.
Trustees Heard Update on the CCSD’s COVID-19 Response
Health Information: The COVID-19 response update included a presentation from Dr. Fermin Leguen, Acting Director of the Southern Nevada Health District (SNHD). Dr. Leguen outlined the factors SNHD is tracking with regards to opening schools, based on CDC recommendations and guidance. Factors include both the COVID-19 positivity rate for CCSD students and staff and the 14-day community infection rate. A memo provided by Superintendent Jara stated that though positivity rates continue to decline, there is still high risk present with regards to reopening school buildings for face to face instruction. Trustees requested ongoing updates of positivity rates and other health-related factors that contribute to the decision to reopen school buildings. At this time, there is no recommendation for schools to reopen.
COVID-19 Testing: Educators will have access to free COVID-19 testing through the Task Force for Educator’s Safety & Screening (TIES). Trustees discussed concerns about requiring employees to participate in testing and the implications related to confidentiality. CCSD General Counsel is finalizing program details, but does not anticipate that participation in testing will be required. Student testing was not discussed.
Connectivity & Participation: According to CCSD, 226,093 devices have been distributed to students and 13,443 families have been connected to the internet via the Family Support Center. With regards to enrollment, CCSD is at 97% of expected enrollment, approximately -9,300 students.
Student Online Safety & Mental Health: CCSD has launched increased controls on GoGuardian, the IT security program connected to all CCSD distance learning accounts and devices. The program includes content firewalls and the ability for educators to monitor web pages students are accessing while logged in to their CCSD account. Additionally, Beacon, a suicide prevention tool, has been incorporated to GoGuardian to support student mental health. Trustees requested additional detailed information on student and employee mental health be presented at an upcoming board meeting.
Student Instruction: For the first three weeks of school, between 300,100 and 305,000 students have accessed Canvas, the district’s Learning Management System (LMS). CCSD staff outlined challenges related to Canvas implementation, including information continuity for families and training for teachers on uploading grades. With regards to special populations, students with disabilities are being provided with assistive technology and learning supports on a case by case basis. English Language Learners (ELLs) are receiving additional support with interactive Google Classrooms, and educators are being provided with coaching and resources to support students learning English. Trustees requested additional information on ELLs and the accommodations being provided to students.
Assessments: Students in grades 3-10 are participating in the Measure of Academic Progress (MAP) formative assessment from home. CCSD staff encouraged teachers to utilize MAP results as one of multiple data points for tailoring instruction for students. Gifted and Talented Education (GATE) assessments are being conducted for qualifying third graders in person, and Child Find (special education assessments) are occurring in person on an appointment basis. ELL assessments are also being conducted by appointment at school sites — approximately 3,000 students are left to be tested.
Trustees directed the Superintendent to ensure that the update at the next board meeting includes information on how the central office is being responsive to concerns of employees, students, and parents. Additionally, Trustees would like to review information on other districts’ school building reopenings and to revisit the details of the hybrid plan for the return to school buildings.
This was not an action item.
Click here to see the presentation. Click here to read about this in the Las Vegas Review-Journal.
Sign up to receive a notification when a new Ed-Watch post is published:
The Ed-Watch series is designed to increase access to information on what decisions are being made regarding public education in Clark County and Nevada.
State Public Charter School Authority (SPCSA)
What is the SPCSA & what are they responsible for? The SPCSA sponsors and oversees public charter schools across the State of Nevada. The Authority consists of nine appointed members responsible for overseeing educational and operational standards, and holding sponsored schools accountable to the academic achievement of students.
How often does the SPCSA Board meet? SPCSA members meet once monthly– on Fridays.
Click here for SPCSA meeting schedule and materials.
Can community members engage at SPCSA Board Meetings? All meetings are held publicly at the Nevada Department of Education building in Carson City and the Nevada Department of Education building in Las Vegas (1st floor boardroom). Members of the public are invited to attend at either location. A time for public comment is provided at the conclusion of each agenda item and at the conclusion of each Board meeting. There is a time limit of three minutes per speaker. Members of the community providing testimony must fill out a visitor card, available on-site the day of the meeting.
Alternatively, public comment may be submitted in writing at publiccomment@spcsa.nv.gov, and any such public comment received prior to the meeting will be provided to the Authority and included in the written minutes of the meeting.
Members of the public submitted comment online regarding:
Support for school reopening decision made by the Authority
Concerns about the implementation of distance learning
SPCSA Executive Director’s Report:
Report Highlights:
Update on response to Covid-19 Pandemic:
Director Feiden and the SPCSA granted three exemptions to distance learning for schools in Washoe County. This is contingent on Washoe County School District continuing to operate in person learning. SPCSA’s primary efforts have focused on addressing connectivity needs, coordination with health districts, school leadership support, and communication. Click here to see the full memo.
New Schools:
Pinecrest Academy of Northern Nevada, Girls Athletic Leadership Schools (GALS), and Explore Academy have each opened as planned. Civica Nevada has submitted three of the five required conditions for opening and will provide a more formal update to the board on October 2nd.
Update on Summer Cycle for Charter Applications:
The SPCSA received five complete charter applications for the summer cycle. Capacity interviews have been scheduled with school teams and recommendations for approval or denial will be brought before the board at the November 6th meeting.
SPCSA Performance Framework Overview:
The SPCSA performance framework is a document that sets forth agreed upon expectations of performance and compliance. It is the basis for school evaluations, ongoing monitoring and intervention that informs high-stakes decisions by an authorizer. Academic and Organizational results will be available in October or November. Financial results will be available in February. Click here to see the full overview.
Federal Grant Monitoring:
The SPCSA is responsible for oversight on federal and state grants to Nevada Public Charter Schools in order to ensure schools are considering students services and well being, sound financial stewardship and legal compliance. Schools will receive updates about SPCSA’s federal grant monitoring in September. Click here to see the full overview.
Board Approved Quest Academy Transition from Receivership (7-0-1)
Based on the academic and financial progress of Quest Academy throughout receivership, the Board approved SPCSA staff recommendation for Quest Academy to transition from receivership to a fully constituted board, with conditions. Members of Quest Academy school community outlined upcoming board training and next steps for the school.
Note: Member Soifer recused himself due to a business relationship with a member of the Quest Academy board and therefore abstained from the vote.
Click here to see the full recommendation, including conditions.
Board Approved Charter School Contract Amendments
Freedom Classical Academy: The board approved a good cause exemption and amendment request for Freedom Classical Academy’s acquisition of its current facility. It will not affect approved enrollment. Click here to see the full recommendation, including conditions.
Honors Academy of Literature: The board approved a good cause exemption and amendment request for Honors Academy of Literature to increase their enrollment from 211 students to 225 students. Click here to see the full recommendation.
Board Approved Amplus Academy Contract Amendment
Staff and board members from Amplus Academy provided an academic and financial update on the progress of Amplus transitioning away from their former Education Management Organization (EMO) to an independent charter school. Based on SPCSA staff recommendation, the Board approved changes to Amplus Academy’s academic, operational, and financial plans. Highlights of the changes include:
updates to curriculum and professional development resources,
shifts to leadership structure to devote more time to specific student groups,
shifts to school based human resource functions, accounting and finance functions, and student recruitment and enrollment, and
significant updates to financial plan due to reallocation of funds designated for Amplus Academy’s former (EMO) to directly support students.
SPCSA staff authority recommended updates and changes to the SPCSA’s site evaluation including an update on the work ahead. Site evaluations offer objective feedback to schools in years 1, 3, and 5 of operation. The board approved changes to the site evaluation process, including:
a statement in the handbook to address potential for bias in focus groups,
decreasing the number of items schools are required to upload,
implementing a presentation from school leaders,
revisions to classroom observation rubric, and
reduction of the number of staff hours used on the final report.
Click here to see the full presentation and all updates.
Board Heard Update on Serving All Students Equitably
Based on feedback from the board, SPCSA staff outlined actions being implemented by the SPCSA to ensure schools are serving all students equitably. In addition to site evaluation updates approved by the board in a previous item, new school applications will be revised to include questions regarding efforts to close opportunity gaps and address disproportionate discipline practices. Charter renewal applications will include questions related to restorative justice practices and plans to address disproportionate discipline practices and opportunity gaps. Additionally, SPCSA will conduct annual presentations on student outcome data, and continue the Focus on Schools series.
Director Feiden provided an overview of Students at Risk of Dropping Out of School within Academic and Demographic Needs Assessment and context on how SPCSA staff are addressing the need. SPCSA board members provided additional suggestions on addressing this need and requested to continue this conversation.
Click here to see the Academic and Demographic Needs Assessment.
Long-Range Calendar
Due to the volume of anticipated agenda items, an additional SPCSA meeting will be scheduled in December.
The Ed-Watch series is designed to increase access to information on what decisions are being made regarding public education in Clark County and Nevada.
State Public Charter School Authority (SPCSA)
What is the SPCSA & what are they responsible for? The SPCSA sponsors and oversees public charter schools across the State of Nevada. The Authority consists of nine appointed members responsible for overseeing educational and operational standards, and holding sponsored schools accountable to the academic achievement of students.
How often does the SPCSA Board meet? SPCSA members meet once monthly– on Fridays.
Click here for SPCSA meeting schedule and materials.
Can community members engage at SPCSA Board Meetings? All meetings are held publicly at the Nevada Department of Education building in Carson City and the Nevada Department of Education building in Las Vegas (1st floor boardroom). Members of the public are invited to attend at either location. A time for public comment is provided at the conclusion of each agenda item and at the conclusion of each Board meeting. There is a time limit of three minutes per speaker. Members of the community providing testimony must fill out a visitor card, available on-site the day of the meeting.
Alternatively, public comment may be submitted in writing at publiccomment@spcsa.nv.gov, and any such public comment received prior to the meeting will be provided to the Authority and included in the written minutes of the meeting.
Dissatisfaction with the SPCSA Reopening Plan Requirements which would require most SPCSA approved charter schools to open with distance learning only.
Board Approved Reopening Plan Requirements and In-Person Learning for 2020-2021 School Year (6-3)
SPCSA board members heard from SPCSA Executive Director Feiden on the proposed school opening requirements related to in-person learning for the 2020-2021 school year.
A motion was made to approve the guidance as a recommendation rather than a requirement. This motion failed 5 to 4.
The board moved to approve the guidance as a requirement, with the addition of a fast-response process for SPCSA to consider an appeal by schools.
Board Heard Update on Open Meeting Law
Governor Sisolak’s Emergency Directive 029 extended Nevada’s State of Emergency status. The extension provides allowance for public meetings, including the SPCSA board, to continue to occur virtually.
Sign up to receive a notification when a new Ed-Watch post is published:
The Ed-Watch series is designed to increase access to information on what decisions are being made regarding public education in Clark County and Nevada.
State Public Charter School Authority (SPCSA)
What is the SPCSA & what are they responsible for? The SPCSA sponsors and oversees public charter schools across the State of Nevada. The Authority consists of nine appointed members responsible for overseeing educational and operational standards, and holding sponsored schools accountable to the academic achievement of students.
How often does the SPCSA Board meet? SPCSA members meet once monthly– on Fridays.
Click here for SPCSA meeting schedule and materials.
Can community members engage at SPCSA Board Meetings? All meetings are held publicly at the Nevada Department of Education building in Carson City and the Nevada Department of Education building in Las Vegas (1st floor boardroom). Members of the public are invited to attend at either location. A time for public comment is provided at the conclusion of each agenda item and at the conclusion of each Board meeting. There is a time limit of three minutes per speaker. Members of the community providing testimony must fill out a visitor card, available on-site the day of the meeting.
Alternatively, public comment may be submitted in writing at publiccomment@spcsa.nv.gov, and any such public comment received prior to the meeting will be provided to the Authority and included in the written minutes of the meeting.
Members of the public submitted comment online regarding:
Support for requiring schools to open with distance learning only
SPCSA Executive Director’s Report:
Report Highlights:
Response to COVID-19 pandemic and the reopening of schools
SPCSA has received 27 of 37 reopening plans for review. Individual school plans are available on school websites. Click here to view the minimum approval requirements. The majority of schools are planning to open with a hybrid online/in-person model, with at least one school intending to open fully in person and at least one school intending to open completely virtual. SPCSA staff is continuing to monitor any changes or announcements that could impact SPCSA-sponsored schools. Click here to see the full COVID-19 update.
Applications & Expansions
Five charter applications were submitted for the summer application cycle. Application review will begin in August.
American Preparatory Academy, Mater Academy, and Nevada State High School have been approved for expansions for Fall 2020.
Site Evaluation Process and Improvements for the 2020-21 School Year
SPCSA staff engaged with school leaders, board members, and other authorizers to identify refinements to site evaluations. Staff will bring recommendations to the August board meeting. The recommendations will include updates to the document review items and classroom observations. SPCSA will conduct 39 site evaluations next year.
31st (2020) Special Session of the Nevada Legislature
Upon the close of the special session, substantial cuts were made to the Read by Grade 3 and SB178 funds. However, $50 million of CARES Act funding was directed to support students that fall into specific categories including ELL, FRL, proficiency below the 25th percentile, and attends a school that rates in the bottom 10% in the State.
Board Heard Updates & Approved Amendments from Charter SchoolsLaunching Fall 2020
SPCSA board members heard from school leaders & board members of three approved SPCSA schools opening for the 2020-2021 school year.
Pinecrest Academy of Northern Nevada
Pinecrest Academy of Northern Nevada has satisfied requirements set by the SPCSA for opening. They have met projected enrollment targets for all grades but 7th. They have an approved agreement with the Boys & Girls Club to support student meals and transportation. Click here to see the full update.
Girls Athletic Leadership School (GALS)
GALS has enrolled 90 students, and is on track to meet enrollment targets for opening. They plan to open on August 10 with both a hybrid and online-only option. With regards to diversity, 16% of GALS enrolled students who have an IEP, and 35% are English Language Learners. Click here to see the full update.
Explore Academy
SPCSA board granted Explore Academy a good cause exemption to amend their enrollment cap from 330 students for the start of the 2020-2021 school year to 150. Explore Academy staff feel confident that they can reach this enrollment number and that they can operate feasibly with 150 students. Click here to see the full update. Click here to see SPCSA staff’s recommendation memo.
Board Approved American Preparatory Academy New School Name & Configuration
The SPCSA board granted American Preparatory Academy a good cause exemption to amend their school name to Amplus Academy. Additionally, the board approved changes to the grade configuration of their two campuses. One campus will now house all classes for grades K-3 with the other housing grades 4-12. School leaders plan to submit an additional amendment that includes a plan to fulfill the responsibilities of their former Education Management Organization (EMO). The SPCSA board approved a separation from their EMO at the June 26th board meeting.
Board Heard Update From Schools Under or Previously Under Receivership
Argent Preparatory Academy’s former school building is currently under contract for sale. This is the former school’s final asset. The sale is expected to close in September 2020.
Quest Preparatory Academy is in the process of reconstituting their board, and have confirmed five new members. Additionally, Quest’s Alexander campus is under contract for sale. The sale is expected to close in October 2020.
Nevada Connections Academy staff provided the SPCSA with an update on efforts to improve student outcomes and the school’s star rating. NCA anticipates reaching 2-stars in the 2020-2021 school year and 3-stars for 2021-2022. NCA has made adjustments to their escalation system, which is used to monitor student progress, attendance, and performance. These adjustments reduce the amount of time between a student falling behind and interventions being put into place.
SPCSA board members discussed the importance of the school’s board providing oversight on metrics related to student achievement. If the school receives a 1-star rating, their charter contract will be subject to termination.
Board Discussed Priority to Serving All Students Equitably
SPCSA staff facilitated a discussion with board members regarding ways the authority can ensure all students in SPCSA-sponsored schools are being served equitably. Suggestions from board members included changes to Site Evaluation observations and focus groups, regular review of disaggregated annual discipline data, and exploring SPCSA-supported training options on inclusion, implicit bias, and anti-racism. The board also discussed the need to be transparent with families and the community about progress towards equitably serving all students. SPCSA staff will bring this item back for discussion at the August meeting to further identify concepts and ideas to move forward on.
Board Discussed Potential Updates to Growth Management Plan and Academic and Demographic Needs Assessment
NRS 388A requires that the SPSCA Growth Management Plan be reviewed and revised at least biennially and the Academic and Demographic Needs Assessment be updated each year. Updates to the Growth Management Plan will include a strong stakeholder engagement strategy to deepen relationships with communities throughout the State. Updates to the Academic and Demographic Needs Assessment will include new demographic data published by the Department of Education in addition to needs assessment maps and tools that can be leveraged by stakeholders. Board members also discussed including economic development metrics in the needs assessment.
Board Heard Overview of Charter School Renewal Process
SPCSA-authorized schools up for renewal submit a letter of intent and application to renew in the fall. Within 60 days, SPSA staff review renewal applications and provide renewal recommendations to the board before December 15. When reviewing renewal applications, SPCSA staff look at the school’s academic, organizational, and financial performance, site evaluation findings, and other information provided by the school.
Nevada Virtual Academy is a fully online school that has been in operation in Nevada since 2007. They serve 1,300 students in grades 6-12 and have consistently received 3-star ratings for their middle and high school since 2016-2017 school year.
The board approved staff recommendation to dismiss litigation between the SPCSA and Nevada Virtual Academy. This settlement requires each party to pay for their own legal fees. Additionally, the board approved amendments to NVA’s charter contract term to end June 30, 2024 and increase their enrollment cap from 1,790 students to 2,100. Finally, the amendment removes a provision that the school will be closed if they are rated 2-stars for two years in a row.
Click here to see SPCSA staff recommendations Click here to see the amended contract Click here to see the settlement agreement
Sign up to receive a notification when a new Ed-Watch post is published:
The Ed-Watch series is designed to increase access to information on decisions being made regarding public education in Clark County and Nevada.
Nevada State Board of Education
What is the State Board of Education & what are they responsible for? The Nevada State Board of Education adopts regulations based on Nevada laws, which are passed down to individual school districts in Nevada to implement. The Board has 11 total (7 appointed and 4 publicly elected) members.
Can community members engage at State Board Meetings? A time for public comment is provided at the beginning (for agenda items) and at the conclusion (on any matter) of each Board meeting. There is a time limit of three minutes per speaker. Members of the community providing testimony must fill out a visitor card, available on-site the day of the meeting.
Thursday, July 23, 2020 Nevada State Board of Education Meeting
Click here to see the meeting agenda
What happened at this meeting?
Public Comment
Members of the public provided testimony via email submission regarding:
Concerns about inequities in technology and device access
Concerns about quality supports for diverse learners
Concerns for students who have not been reached since school buildings closed
Concerns about Speech Language Pathologists’ max caseloads
President’s Report
President Wynn introduced and welcomed two new board members:
Alex Gallegos, Student Representative
Wayne Workman, Nevada Association of School Superintendents Appointee
Superintendent’s Report
State Superintendent Ebert report highlights:
Funding
During the 31st Special Session of the Nevada Legislature, Assembly Bill 3 (AB3) directed $50 million in CARES Act funding to a grant program to be administered by the Nevada Department of Education. School districts can apply for funds to support programs that serve vulnerable students. Funds will be distributed to districts once eligible students are identified. The bill also prioritizes what cuts will be restored if additional funding relief is provided, and listed funding for the weighted funding formula for K-12 and Read by Grade Three as the top two funding priorities, respectively.
The Governor’s Emergency Relief Fund allocated $26 million for P-20 education. A portion of those dollars were set aside to purchase a statewide Learning Management System. Other funds have been used to backfill Pre-K.
Under Governor Directive O22, reopening plans must be submitted to the Department no more than 20 days before school opens. Clark County, Eureka, Nye, and Washoe County school districts have submitted their certifications with their plans.
Nevada Digital Learning Collaborative and Digital Engineers
The Nevada Digital Learning Collaborative has expanded to include 20 new members who represent diverse racial/ethnic backgrounds, speak multiple languages, and represent additional counties in Nevada.
Digital Engineers are currently planning a virtual learning conference in September, likely centered around the theme “Building Relationships in the Digital Space”
The Department of Education has leveraged CARES Act funding to provide a statewide Learning Management System (LMS) for districts to access curriculum and content. Six school districts have expressed interest in leveraging the statewide LMS. The Clark County School District will provide content for grades 6-12.
To compliment LMS, the Department has purchased high quality digital content through Discovery Education that is accessible to every student and educator throughout the state and can be accessed with or without a LMS.
Community Partnerships
Superintendent Ebert recognized United Way of Southern Nevada, United Way of Northern Nevada, Vegas PBS, and PBS Reno for their efforts to support families and students throughout the pandemic.
Board members discussed the importance of ensuring that the quality of digital learning continues to improve. The Board has requested frequent updates from each district regarding (1) internet connectivity (2) availability and distribution of learning devices (3) teacher training (4) how the Department and districts plan to assess student success and (5) instructional delivery to vulnerable students.
Board Heard Updates from the Governor’s Office of Science, Innovation & Technology (OSIT)
The Director of OSIT provided the board with updates related to efforts to ensure students in Nevada are connected to devices and have adequate internet to support online learning. OSIT is working to connect families through:
Community wireless infrastructure for groups of students living near one another, including broadcasting WiFi networks within school buildings to be available to students in neighborhoods surrounding the school;
Wireless hotspots for individual students identified by school districts; and
Subsidized home internet service providers.
Additional federal assistance dollars are under negotiation to support Wifi hotspots, connected devices, and support for home broadband connections.
Board Heard Update from Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Workgroup of the Nevada State Board of Education
The purpose of the workgroup is to address systemic racism in Nevada’s education system that affects students of color, including components such as teacher diversity, discipline practices, and access to technology. The first meeting on the workgroup focused on discussion priorities including:
Upcoming budget cuts;
Supports for with IEPs;
Teaching training on distance learning pedagogy;
Ensuring students have support systems and social connections throughout distance learning; and
Equity training for the Department and Board.
The Board approved a letter to Nevada Legislators and Nevada’s Congressional Delegation representatives requesting “support in identifying funding and incentivizing internet providers to address the increasing urgency of Nevada’s digital divide.”
Board Approved the Statewide Plan for Improvement of Pupils (STIP)
NDE staff provided an updated version of the STIP that includes language changes as directed by the board at the June 4th meeting. Changes were focused on ensuring language used in the STIP is person-first, equity driven, and public-friendly.
Board Approved Delta Academy for Alternative Performance Framework
Public schools in Nevada are rated under either the Nevada State Performance Framework (NSPF) or the Alternative Performance Framework (APF). According to NRS 285A.740, schools that are eligible for the Alternative Performance Framework must have a stated mission to serve at-risk students, with at least 75% of students that:
Have been expelled or suspended from a public school;
Have been deemed to be a habitual disciplinary problem;
Are academically disadvantaged;
Have been adjudicated delinquent; and/or
Have an Individualized Education Program (IEP).
Delta Academy will be rated under the Alternative Performance Framework starting in the 2020-2021 school year. They are required to reapply to continue to be rated on the APF in 3 years.
The mission of Teach Plus is to empower excellent, experienced, and diverse teachers to take leadership over key policy and practice issues that advance equity, opportunity, and student success. Teach Plus Nevada staff and Senior Policy Fellows presented their policy and advocacy activities throughout 2020, including:
The Ed-Watch series is designed to increase access to information on what decisions are being made regarding public education in Clark County and Nevada.
Clark County School District Board of Trustees
What is the Board of Trustees & what are they responsible for? The CCSD Trustees are publicly elected decision-makers for the school district. They are responsible for providing oversight to the Superintendent and establishing District-wide policy. Trustees are accountable to work with their communities to improve student achievement.
How often does the Board of Trustees meet? Trustees meet twice per month (second and fourth Thursdays) at 5pm at the Edward A. Greer Education Center (Board Room): 2832 E. Flamingo Road, Las Vegas, NV 89121.
Can community members engage at Trustee Meetings? Decision-making bodies benefit greatly from hearing public input and multiple perspectives. Community members can sign up to speak after the agenda has been posted– by calling the Board Office at (702) 799-1072 at least 3 hours before the scheduled meeting, or signing up in-person at the beginning of the meeting. Prior to each agenda item being voted on, speakers can share their perspective after the Board’s discussion and prior to the vote.
Thursday, June 11, 2020
Clark County School District Board of Trustees Special Meeting
Members of the public submitted comments online. Public comment was not read directly into the record, and rather an oral summary of each comment was provided to Trustees.
Click here to view public comment on agenda items.
Click here to view public comment on non-agenda items.
Board Approved the Consent Agenda
Consent Agenda Highlights:
Amendments to Rainbow Dreams Academy charter contract to remove grades 1-8 and transition to a Pre-K and kindergarten only. Trustees and staff discussed ensuring accountability measures are in place for this new school configuration.
Membership to the Council of Great City Schools. Trustees expressed their support for continuing the partnership and will be addressing communication concerns trustees have brought forward. (Vote: 6-0-1)
Board Appointed an Audit Advisory Committee Member
The board approved the reappointment of Joshua Robinson to the CCSD Audit Advisory Committee. The purpose of this committee is to advise the Board in strengthening accountability for the efficient stewardship of public funds; providing a communication link between external and internal auditors and the Board of Trustees; enhancing transparency of the District’s financial operations; and improving public trust in the honesty and integrity of public officials.
Board Approved Notices of Intent to Update Policies
Final policies will be brought before the board at the July 25th CCSD Board of Trustees meeting.
Board Approved MOA with the Clark County Educators Association (CCEA)
The MOA is related to the implementation of school improvement grants, and provides pay for additional teacher minutes at El Dorado HS and Bailey Middle school.
CCSD Staff presented a draft legislative platform for the district, which includes topics specific to School Funding, Improved Learning Environments, and School Safety & Mental Health. Highlights from the platform include:
Preserving the weighted funding formula
Opposing all unfunded mandates
Collaborating with the state to invest in digital learning
Identifying opportunities to address and diversify the teacher pipeline
Trustees discussed the necessity to ensure that public education is adequately funded in Nevada, including communication from the governor’s office on impacts to the budget due to revenue shortfalls from COVID. Other topics that trustees proposed for consideration in the platform include: adjustments to the reorganization of the district (AB469), consideration of technology related to workforce and school building security.
Trustees Heard Updates about the District’s Response to COVID-19
COVID response update highlights:
3.5 million meals have been served, and USDA is extending waivers through the summer.
From the time of school building closures through the end of the school year, 4,370 students were not successfully reached. Approximately 2/3 of those students not reached identify as Black or Hispanic.
CCSD released a survey for the community to provide input on what should be prioritized for the reopening of schools. Approximately 94,000 responses were received from community members, teachers, students, and central office staff.
Reopening Plan: Working groups have met and provided input to inform the initial school reopening plan. Currently, school department heads and subject matter experts are using input collected from the working groups to refine the plan. Unit chiefs will then present recommendations to the superintendent and cabinet for input. The final plan is expected to be presented to the board at the July 25th meeting, and is required to be available for the public no less than 20 days before the first day of school.
Trustees discussed looking to other districts to understand how their reopening is impacting staff and students. Additionally, trustees discussed ensuring that feedback from educators is closely taken into consideration as plans are finalized.
Trustees and Superintendent Jara also discussed needing to connect with the Governor’s office and Nevada Department of Education to ensure they are receiving information in a timely manner.
Superintendent Jara’s prepared statement:
Click here to read about this in the Las Vegas Review-Journal.
Superintendent Communications
Superintendent Jara welcomed Sarah Cyprus, the new principal of Treem Elementary.
Requests for Future Agenda Items:
Detailed presentation on data related to CCSD Police policies and data about excessive force, including the use of pepper spray on campus.
Information about how Trustees will be updated on the work of the Nevada Department of Education Reopening Committee.
Sign up to receive a notification when a new Ed-Watch post is published:
