2022-23 Superintendent's Parent Council Representatives:

2022-23 Parent Council Meeting Recaps

November 16, 2022 

The Superintendent’s Parent Council was facilitated by Scott Krauser, Superintendent of Schools. The meeting began with introductions. Parents introduced themselves, shared the school(s) that their student(s) attended, and shared some background information about themselves. 

Dr. Krauser next discussed the purpose of the parent’s council and meeting expectations. 

The main topic of the first meeting was the 2023-2026 Comprehensive Plan. Dr. Krauser and Dr. Rebecca Lorfink, Assistant Superintendent, discussed the four guiding goals of the Comprehensive Plan: student success, district well-being, high-quality teaching and learning, and operational responsibility and partnerships. 

Council members were provided a few discussion prompts and a conversation ensued regarding what our schools are doing today that are no longer relevant for current students. The meeting concluded with a brief discussion on community engagement. A calendar of events was also provided, as well as extra copies for council members to pass along. Council members were encouraged to submit discussion topics in advance of the next meeting and to bring any feedback from the YSSD community.

January 25, 2023

The January 25 Parent Council meeting was facilitated by Scott Krauser, Superintendent of Schools. The meeting opened with brief introductions. 

1. Council members then provided feedback from the November meeting prompts and the feedback they received from their community. The following feedback themes were provided and discussed:
   1. Life Ready Skills: The need for all students to take classes and/or master critical skills surrounding personal finance, personal relationships, and innovation.
   2. Pathways to a career: There are many pathways to success, removing the pressure off ‘college for all of the students’ as the expectation of “what’s next.”
      1. Confidence: begin early to build student confidence, help find their strengths, and explore all options.
      2. The school and community (family) should help students connect to possible career choices and support student choice of college or career.
   3. Equity in our elementary schools.
   4. Student goal setting
   5. High School:
      1. Discussion about the use of a cumulative grading system.
      2. Discussion about Collaboration Days
      3. Safety and security: the need for a school resource officer.
   6. Keeping families engaged with student progress while moving through the secondary schools.
2. Meeting Topic: State of the District
   1. Dr. Krauser gave an overview of the State of the District. The council members asked questions and engaged in conversation pertaining to how York Suburban School District has expanded and what the future looks like.
   2. The council meeting concluded with each member reflecting on how the District can connect and engage, in a meaningful way, with our expanding community. This will be discussed at the next council meeting.
3. A calendar of events was provided to each council member.

March 22, 2023

The March 22 Parent Council meeting was facilitated by Dr. Scott Krauser, Superintendent of Schools. The meeting opened by introducing Dr. Ellis, Principal of YSHS. Dr. Ellis was invited to join this meeting to provide more perspective on topics discussed during the January 25, 2023 parent council meeting. 

1. January 25 Meeting Follow-Up
   1. Dr. Krauser provided feedback and information on topics that were discussed at the January 25 meeting: life-ready skills, pathways to a career, and equity in our schools. 
   2. Dr. Ellis explained how cumulative grading works and why this system is being utilized. He also provided feedback on collaboration days. 
2. Community Engagement/Feedback
   1. The following topics were discussed:
      1. Black History Month.
      2. Community feedback regarding the 5th-grade social being canceled.
      3. The timing of Parent/Teacher Conferences. 
      4. YS students are not being prepared for STEM-related fields as compared to other school districts, nor do the facilities accommodate STEM-related opportunities.
3. Dr. Krauser discussed the following recommendations:
   1. An intermediate consolidation option: Consolidating grades 3-5 will create a more cohesive and efficient learning environment. This will allow teachers to coordinate curriculum and instruction better, provide more individualized attention to students, and create a more focused learning experience. 
   2. Relevant, rigorous, and contemporary educational program pathways for all students. Projects specific to the secondary program to better align with student enrollment, enlistment, or employment pathways and coordinated with modern curriculum and contemporary learning environments. Implementing a more direct career and technical pathway will provide students with increased opportunities to develop practical skills and prepare for future jobs. 
   3. A capital plan committed to assuring a reduced likelihood of planned program disruption and contemporary facilities to meet student needs.    
4. Dr. Krauser surveyed the group to see if there was interest in scheduling meetings during the summer and the 2023-24 school year.   
5. A calendar of events was provided to each council member, along with a listing of all home spring sports events.