Harborfields BOE advances next phase of excellence program, as new school year begins
By Jennifer Donatelli
Harborfields Board of Education convened on Wednesday, Aug. 21, to prepare for the new school year.
Superintendent Rory Manning opened with an executive session, covering ongoing projects and future goals for the district.
This summer, improvements included redone walkways around Harborfields High School, enhanced drainage, interior painting and a refurbished elevator at Oldfield Middle School.
One major goal for the upcoming year is the implementation of the Excellence Through Innovation program. The district is working on a five-year strategic plan to shift toward experiential learning and support the social-emotional wellness of all students and community members.
In line with the mission of “Each Child. Each Day. One Harborfields Family,” the district is investing in curriculum enhancements. This includes technology science research, robotics, coding in all schools, a new elementary math program and civic awareness, with a focus on program sustainability. Manning said, “I truly feel blessed to work with a board committed to the vision and mission of the district, and you’ll see that reflected in the board goals.”
Manning noted that the district is in its third year of the program, and is featuring a new universal screener, a revised K-2 science program, project-based learning initiative and AP seminars. Additionally, the district hopes to bolster career awareness through summer internship options, and offer expanded club and athletic opportunities.
A key goal this year is to develop and distribute an anti-bias curriculum handbook and establish an anti-bias advisory committee. The district will set new goals to explore and identify K-12 programming that encourages students to apply critical thinking, reading and writing skills to interdisciplinary research projects, supporting their success in high school and beyond. The current STEAM programming — science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics — will be analyzed to ensure it meets student needs.
In addition, the new 2024 Capital Bond will fund security and facility enhancements. As well, the district will assess the costs associated with the Child Victims Act for future programming. The aim is to increase state aid and grant funding to support these improvements.
The next Board of Education meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, Sept. 18.
