The ABSS Board of Education and Dr. Butler approved the appointment of a new Executive Director of Human Resources today during its monthly work session. Current Executive Director of Student and Family Services, Yolanda Anderson will assume the role later this month. Anderson was the former Chief Human Resources Officer for Camden County Schools before coming to ABSS in 2022. Prior to that she also served in ABSS as both a principal at Broadview Middle and AP at Williams High School.
Hollis Wroblewski, the current Executive Director of Human Resources, will become the new Assistant Principal at Williams High School starting August 21, 2023. She asked to move back into a role with more student and family interaction, the kind of work she did as Principal of Highland Elementary before taking the human resources position.
Student Code of Conduct
The Board also approved some minor revisions to the Student Code of Conduct that include modifications to the consequences for having illegal substances on campus. This includes, narcotic drugs, hallucinogenic drugs, amphetamine, barbiturate, marijuana, anabolic steroid, other controlled substance, any alcoholic or other intoxicating beverage, drug paraphernalia, counterfeit substance, any unauthorized prescription drug, or any other chemicals or products with the intention of bringing about a state of exhilaration, euphoria, or of otherwise altering the student’s mood or behavior.
The consequences have been modified to out of school suspension (OSS) up to 10 days at the elementary level and OSS up to long term suspension at the middle and high school levels. Additionally, an intervention program may be required in addition to confiscation of all substances.
Achieve3000
Chief Academic Officer Revonda Johnson announced recent gains in the District’s reading scores. While the scores have not been released publicly by the state, ABSS students showed improvement in overall scores which she attributed partially to the use of Achieve3000 educational software. The program assists teachers and is designed to help students advance their reading skills by providing differentiated online instruction with assignments tailored to each student's reading ability level. The Board of Education approved the use of more than $990,000 in ESSER money to continue the program. Achieve3000 delivers a comprehensive suite of digital solutions that significantly accelerate and deepen learning for students in literacy, math, science, and social studies.
Mental Health
ABSS also secured a mental health grant from the Department of Public Instruction (DPI) known as “ADS” or Adding Direct Support. This grant enables the District to partner with North Carolina State University to incorporate additional counselor interns during the school year. ABSS was chosen as one of the eight school systems statewide based on the percentage of students who face economic disadvantages.
“ABSS remains dedicated to prioritizing the mental health and well-being of our students and staff. By establishing strategic partnerships, implementing innovative programs, and providing ongoing support, we aim to create a nurturing educational environment that fosters success and resilience,” said Dr. Kristy Davis, Chief Student Services Officer.