Career and College Readiness (CCR) program update
District staff provided an update on the Career and College Readiness (CCR) program, which spans middle and high school and offers 66 courses taught by 31 teachers across six career pathways. Student enthusiasm and teacher dedication were praised, highlighting the program’s rare depth and breadth for a single high school district.
With offerings from culinary arts and business to biotech and Distributive Education Clubs of America (DECA), CCR emphasizes hands-on learning that prepares students for both college and the workforce. Student representatives described it as a “private school level” experience that builds confidence, sparks passion, and creates “random aha moments.”
Director Deborah Lurie described CCR as inclusive, real and life-preparing, especially valuable for students who don’t thrive in AP tracks. Director Cristina Martinez raised equity concerns for transfer and international students. Director Dan Glowitz questioned why only 1.5% of MIHS students attend two-year colleges, compared to 20% at Newport, and why Interlake sends 26% to UW Seattle, urging further analysis. Board President Maggie Tai Tucker highlighted the emotional development CCR fosters and how it helps build “hands-on kind of confidence.”
Artificial intelligence in classrooms
Staff presented AI tools like MagicStudent, Securly Classroom, Apple Classroom, and Kami, highlighting their role in personalized learning, accessibility, and curriculum delivery in assisting reading, writing, research, and behavioral intervention. Director Martinez raised concerns about environmental impact, data privacy, and bias, urging early education on AI ethics. Director Glowitz referenced the April 2024 Executive Order on AI education and encouraged exploring funding opportunities, noting, “AI is an area, in contrast to other areas, has shown an appetite for investment versus cutting.” He also highlighted the potential of using AI for high-impact tutoring to support student learning. Board President Tucker questioned AI’s effect on teaching and assignments while Directors Jody Lee and Deborah Lurie raised ethical concerns, with Lurie questioning plagiarism. Student reps reported false accusations of AI misuse and stressed the need for clear, fair guidelines. One student emphasized the importance of balance, warning that over-reliance on AI can make it easy for students to lose their critical thinking skills.
Testing opportunities and SAT/ACT
AP exams, ASVAB, PSAT, and SBA are offered at MISD, with 1,450 AP exams administered in 2024, and 91% of students scoring a three or higher. SAT/ACT discussions revealed that 75% of juniors prefer Saturday SAT testing, but limited availability has prompted the district to explore hosting school-day tests or partnering with nearby districts. Staff highlighted the logistical and financial challenges of offering weekday exams, which require district resources, versus weekend tests that don’t guarantee MIHS students seats. Dan Glowitz advocated for a school-day SAT to ensure equitable access: “It guarantees seniors one last bite or first bite at the apple.” Cristina Martinez supported a pilot program to assess interest, but Director Jody Lee disagreed, suggesting test access has improved post-COVID.
Others
Brody Newcomer was announced as the new student board representative. The College and Career Center has significantly improved post-high school planning, reducing unprepared freshmen from 13% to 3% and hosting 225 college visits. Financially, the district remains stable with a $2 million fund balance, and planned nursing cuts were reduced to maintain school coverage. Bond and levy planning is ongoing, now factoring in increased $500 per-student funding from HB 2049. The PTA’s DEI committee has been renamed “Belonging and Voice” to emphasize inclusivity.
Watch the board meeting below:
