Quincy School Board learns about programs to help high school students with obstacles to learning

QUINCY — The Quincy School Board approved a series of measures aimed at improving education, safety and resources for the district during its Wednesday night meeting. Among the approved items were new business initiatives related to student success, funding and the ongoing effort to enhance school safety.

QHS was the spotlight of the meeting, with presentations made by QHS Principal Jody Steinke and Academy Director Marcey Wells. They detailed new programs designed to help students find alternative routes to graduation and prepare them for the future.

Steinke presented on “Multiple Pathways,” a program described as a “school within a school.” Its goal is to provide struggling students with the support they need to graduate and succeed post-graduation. The initiative focuses on graduate assistance programs, an online academy, the open learning center, college and career readiness and JWCC Smart Start.

Wells then discussed The Academy, a program for students facing significant barriers to traditional schooling such as homelessness, parenthood or the need to work to support their families. The Academy offers a flexible schedule, offering hybrid, in-person and online learning options to accommodate these students’ circumstances. 

“We are always trying to evolve,” Wells said, emphasizing the program’s adaptability and commitment to supporting students through their challenges.

In response to the presentation, school board member Jim Whitfield said, “It is our job to prepare students for the workforce,” highlighting the district’s role in providing practical pathways for students to succeed both in education and the workforce.

The School Board also approved:

• Resolution in Support of Vision 2030: This initiative focuses on preparing students for an ever-changing world. Key priorities include redefining student success beyond standardized tests, ensuring predictable and equitable funding and addressing school safety. The resolution also emphasizes attracting and retaining high-quality educators and enhancing post-secondary success.
• Licensed Support Staff Seniority Lists: These lists were approved to ensure that staffing decisions are made fairly based on seniority.
• Food and Non-Food Bids for Spring 2025: The Board approved contracts for food and non-food services to be used in the district during the upcoming spring semester.
• Letter of Agreement for Community School Coordinator: The position, required by a recent grant QPS received, will help strengthen community partnerships and support student achievement.
• Agreement for School Bus GPS Software: The Board approved a five-year contract at about $60,000 per year with Samsara to install GPS tracking on district school buses to improve safety and efficiency. The program will include front and rear-facing cameras. Mechanics will be notified immediately if there is an engine issue, and Scott Douglas, director of transportation, said he will be notified immediately if there is a collision. 
• Driver’s Education Enterprise Car Lease: A new lease was approved for a replacement driver’s education vehicle after the previous car was totaled in an accident.