A grant awarded to the Columbia Police Department will provide three more officers for junior highs and middle schools. A group of gay teens even lobbied the school board last year to have sexual orientation listed as one of the groups protected in the district s non-discrimination policy. The board agreed in July, though the vote was a close 4-3. The district also joined the nationwide push for early literacy. Six teachers were hired to help students and other teachers reach the goal of having every child reading at grade level by third grade.
Supporters say it increases student-teacher interaction.
The Galaxy program offers a temporary alternative school setting for children with behavior or emotional problems, helping them to address those issues before they return to their school. 1818 W. Worley St. Each includes time for public comment and reports on new curriculum developments or budget issues. The board also holds morning work sessions at least once a month.