Development News for Kingston, New York

School Counselors, Safety, and Technology Dominate Public Comment and Board Discussions

During the public comment period, several speakers addressed the board regarding the role and impact of school counselors. Charlene Wolford, a school counselor, emphasized the critical support counselors provide to middle school students, highlighting the unsustainability of reducing counselors from four to three, which would increase caseloads. Megan Williams, a parent and school counselor, noted that a reduction to three counselors would result in caseloads of 308 students at JWB and 275 at Miller, exceeding the recommended ASA caseload of 250, and suggested reimagining ENL counselor roles. Erica Bern spoke about Pride Month, the need to reexamine school cultures for LGBTQIA+ inclusivity, and the importance of communication and community involvement in decision-making, particularly regarding the budget and counselor positions, which she identified as an equity issue impacting vulnerable students. Meredith requested a comprehensive review of educational technology used in the district, including costs, data collection, safeguards, and evidence of improved outcomes. Kelly Darling, a school counselor, reiterated the detrimental impact of losing a counselor, emphasizing their role as the frontline support and trusted individuals for students, and the increased workload due to the loss of an attendance social worker. Dr. Andrea expressed concern about potential impacts on dual language programs and urged the board to consider strategies for budget cuts. A statement read aloud highlighted serious concerns from the school counseling department about the redistribution of counselors, leading to higher caseloads at the middle level. Student representative Sophia expressed agreement on the importance of counselors and warned against overburdening them. Another student, Mia, echoed these concerns, stating that reduced accessibility to counselors hinders student growth and can teach negative coping mechanisms. The board also heard presentations on school safety plans, district-wide and building-level, emphasizing physical safety, behavioral supports, and positive school climate. The district safety plan adheres to Project SAVE requirements and covers FEMA's five preparedness missions. A discussion ensued regarding resources for parents on prevention, gun safety, and signage to mitigate bad habits. The board also reviewed committee reports on teaching and learning, discipline, restorative practices, and educational technology.