Highlights from the October meeting of the South East Cornerstone Public School Board:

*The South East Cornerstone Teachers' Association (SECTA) discussed the collaboration that exists between the board and SECTA. The board, administration and SECTA worked hard to reach a contract for local teachers, SECTA said. SECTA also shared its thanks for employee recognition, professional development opportunities through conventions, and continued discussions that seek to improve the working relationships between SECTA and the board.

*The board amended Policy No. 3, which speaks to the role of the trustee, and more specifically, the services, materials and equipment provided to trustees. Previously, with a three-year board term, the policy spoke to three years for technological equipment. With a new four-year board term, the necessary amendments were made.

*The First Nation/Métis Committee will continue for the term from 2012 to 2016. The committee, which was formed in the fall of 2010, includes board members, senior administration and four principals. Charged with constructing a format to strengthen student achievement opportunities for First Nation/Métis students, the committee met on numerous occasions and attended various events to support the Treaty 4 success program.

Through consultation with First Nations communities, the committee made recommendations to the board on the nature of their involvement with First Nations for governance of the school division. The provision of leadership in the establishment of an advisory council and progress reports were also tasks for the committee.

*The board also accepted the committee's request for proposal for the development of a workplace transition training program. A report on the establishment of a program is to be submitted by February 2014.

*The board has purchased land adjacent to the school division office in Weyburn, subject to approval from the Ministry of Education, which will be used for future developments.

*A continuous improvement monitoring report was received for the Carnduff Education Complex. The focus on literacy, math, communication and a positive school culture is the framework for a number of initiatives being undertaken. Homework Hall, for example provides assistance to students who for varied reasons did not complete assigned homework. This mandated initiative provides a conducive environment for students, and is professionally staffed. For younger students, an afterschool voluntary homework club provides assistance covered by response to intervention teachers.

The drop everything and read program is another initiative. For 15 minutes each day, the school promotes reading and comprehension. Administrators either read to students or have students read to them and record student progress for assessment and continuous improvement.

Students are engaged through career work exploration, as well as through response to interventions programs for students who are experiencing academic, emotional, social and psychological needs.