Ridgefield Schools Set New Course While Waiting on Finance Decision

The Ridgefield Board of Education convened to push forward several policy changes, discuss the upcoming 2027 school budget, and review new curriculum plans. The meeting closed with a mix of unanimous approvals, one split vote on a Title IX rule, and discussions about a fresh U.S. history textbook for high school students.

Budget Update

• Superintendent Susie Da Silva noted the district is still awaiting Board of Finance approval after a public hearing.
• The finance vote is expected later this month; a town and school budget referendum is scheduled for May.

Strategic Planning

• Resident Dawn‑Marie Callahan urged the board to create a long‑term strategic plan.
• She emphasized that aligning yearly budgets with broader goals would clarify priorities for the board and the public.

Outreach Committee

• Chair Tina Malhotra announced a new outreach committee’s first meeting.
• The group identified four main priorities: student input, partnership with community groups (e.g., PTA), recording future meetings, and potential expansion of board membership.

U.S. History Textbook Proposal

• Recommendation to adopt a new McGraw Hill U.S. history textbook for Ridgefield High School, replacing the 2002 edition.
• Features: print and digital availability, inquiry‑based learning tools, differentiated instruction support.
• Estimated cost: $52,000 for books, a six‑year digital license, and teacher training.
• The proposal remains pending review.

Title IX Policy Update

• Vote: 6‑1.
• Concerns: potential legal challenges and federal funding loss.
• Chair Malhotra highlighted adherence to state law; a member affirmed legal necessity.
• Officials clarified that Connecticut law is unchanged—only procedures were clarified.

Unanimous Policy Approvals

• Non‑discrimination rule updates for students and staff.
• New dress code policy.
• Library collection development plan.
• Policies on parental access to instructional materials.
• Rescinded outdated rule regarding married or pregnant students.
• Updated enrollment and staffing guidelines.

Enrollment

• Total enrollment rose slightly to 4,408 students, largely due to preschool growth.