1997-06-02 School Committee Minutes

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Regular Session Page 2 June 02 1997 and know the students will do well next year. Ms. D'Antona, Mr. Spadafora and Mr. Stohlman also gave their positive support and recognition to the students. The Committee took a break at 7:53 and resumed at 7:58 p.m. NEW BUSINESS (out of order) Middle School Restructuring Principal Jack Delaney of the Parker Middle School reported to the Committee on the Middle School Restructuring, per the memo dated May 27, 1997. Dr. Delaney explained how the process began and the committees that were formed and the recognition they deserve for this effort. He explained that change will continue to occur over the next few years and both middle schools are headed for different paths from where they have been. Principal John Doherty gave an overview with transparencies highlighting the Coolidge Middle Schools. The topic on each slide was: Vision, Areas to Examine, Expectations, Curriculum and Instruction, Grouping, Scheduling, Common Planning Time and Objectives for Middle School Restructuring. Mr. Twomey arrived at 8:05 p.m. Principal John Doherty continued the slide presentation with topics about Increased Student Achievement and Success, Redesign the Schedule, Strengthen 7th grade Program/Increase World Language, Strengthen Exploratory Program, Improve Communication with Parents and Assessment Questions. Mr. Doherty introduced the members of his staff that were present. Dr. Delaney and Mr. Doherty answered questions from the School Committee about the future direction of the Coolidge and Parker Middle Schools. Mr. Spadafora asked what type of evaluations for heterogeneous and homogeneous groups will be given. Dr. Delaney discussed test scores from the state for both groups. Mr. Spadafora asked about tenth grade curriculum. Dr. Harutunian said the MEAP scores were not at the level of other communities and Principal Orlando was addressing the issue. Mr. Richards discussed the new testing next spring. Mr. Spadafora asked what was being done for students that were excelling. Dr. Delaney discussed this issue from a practical and philosophical point of view. He said at the fifth and sixth grade level, it was difficult to define winners and losers. He felt every option ought to be left open to the students. Mr. Stohlman asked about the way students are taught now and how will they be taught in the future and the goals expected to be attained by the students. Dr. Delaney said we do not know exactly where it is going at this point. He said there will be more flexibility on the part of teachers. There will be more collaboration between teachers. Mr. Stohlman asked about teaching methods, whether a teacher should teach to the middle of the class or the high level. He said if the teacher teaches to the high level of the class would that mean more money is needed for those students who cannot attain it. Dr. Delaney said the direction they are going, the opportunity will always exist for students to excel. Ms. D'Antona said there was no question in her mind that the heterogeneous grouping was the way to go. She asked what support and professional development would be given to teachers? Dr. Delaney discussed the professional development for this summer and next year. Ms. D'Antona asked if evaluations will be done at the end of the upcoming school year. Dr. Delaney said there will be a formal assessment. Dr. Harutunian said input will also be