1998-01-21 School Committee Minutes

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REGULAR SESSION -2- January 21, 1998 Chair Twomey advised that the architect hired will tell us what locations at the high school can be reorganized that will result in blocks of space. Right now the high school is approximately 100,000 square feet larger than necessary, however, the space is not in one area but spread out throughout the building. Chair Twomey advised that he was not sure of the Town's plans for the old police station. However, he felt it was an interesting thought regarding moving the administrative offices to the old police station. Dr. Harutunian advised that could not look at moving classrooms into the police station because of different code laws, including lead paint and asbestos. Dr. Harutunian advised that any 4th /5th grade combination is still very much up in the air. He stated that in the early 1980's Reading had combination classes. If the combination is offered it may be looked at as a voluntary option. Dr. Harutunian stated that this is only one of many options being looked at. Ms. Montere questioned why there was no decrease in SPED budget. Dr. Harutunian advised that more children are being identified as SPED students. Dr. Harutunian advised that he compared Reading's SPED spending to ten comparable communities and Reading came in 5th. He also stated that if the new law goes into effect, Reading's saving is only $65,000. Ms. Pission questioned the status of the Coolidge middle school project and questioned what the effect the teachers contract negotiation will have on the budget. Chair Twomey advised that the School Committee is negotiating with all staff this year, not just the teachers and that the School Committee has built into the budget what we believe is a reasonable amount. Chair Twomey also advised that the School Committee will be meeting with the School Building Committee and are hoping to bring the issue to the special Town Meeting in March and hopefully will gain support for the project. Ms. Montere asked whether the three custodians at the town building are included in the total number of 27 listed.