Falls Church School Board Work Session - April 22, 2025

Student Behavior SupportsThe School Board received a comprehensive presentation on student behavior management approaches across the district. Administrators shared how Falls Church City Public Schools implements a proactive, educational approach to discipline that aligns with IB principles. Key points included:Schools use a tiered approach to behavior management with clear expectations communicated through visual reminders and direct teachingAssistant principals described their step-by-step process for handling behavior incidents, emphasizing student safety and learning opportunitiesData showed a small percentage of students receiving discipline referrals (only 5.4% of students in the current year have one or more incidents)The most common incident types vary by school level and include physical contact/aggression at elementary schools and technology violations at secondary schoolsStaff highlighted the importance of restoration, communication with families, and follow-up support.Budget DiscussionThe School Board discussed potential budget implications if the City Council reduces the anticipated school transfer by $600,000 due to revised revenue projections. Dr. Noonan outlined three difficult options if cuts become necessary:Increasing class sizes (would require reducing approximately 12 teaching positions)Not filling critical vacancies in special education, security, and other areasReducing the negotiated cost-of-living adjustment for staffBoard members expressed serious concerns about these options, especially considering the enrollment growth of approximately 154 new students next year. They noted an alternative solution exists: The City Council could implement a smaller tax rate reduction (0.5¢ instead of 2.5¢) that would still provide some tax relief while fully funding both schools and city services.