1997-08-05 School Committee Minutes

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SCHOOL COMMITTEE MEETING - 2 - AUGUST 5. 1997 this year was to provide a preventive maintenance schedule for all schools. However, since Mr. Bandini has resigned after eight months, his replacement will be responsible for setting up a maintenance schedule. A second citizen made a statement regarding the Chicago Math Program. She stated that the committee that was created to review math programs had not agreed with the decision to go with Chicago Math. She is concerned that all teachers receive the full 15 hours of training required for this program. She was also concerned that remedial programs be made available to any child who may need it to work with this math program. She voiced another concern that too much school time was taken up by plays and also that events at the Birch Meadow School including the holiday sing -along is overcrowded and is becoming a safety hazard. She inquired if the high school auditorium could be made available for these events. Dr. Harutunian advised that the high school auditorium is available but that principals do not like to use the auditorium, preferring to keep events at their schools. Also, parking during the day is also a problem at the high school. Dr. Harutunian also advised that the Parker Auditorium is on line and ready to be used. Mr. Stohlman stated it was a good report at yesterday's meeting on the Chicago Math Program. He was glad that the public had the opportunity to speak on the issues. Mr. Stohlman requested that a copy of his statement regarding the chair election be included as part of the minutes. REPORT OF THE SCHOOL COMMITTEE CHAIR AND SUPERINTENDENT Dr. Harutunian advised that he is formally disclosing under General Law 268A 23(b)(3) his position as Trustee at Endicott College. Ms. D'Antona advised that she is formally disclosing under General Law 268A, 23(b)(3) her position as Executive Director of the Reading Extended -day Activities Program. STRATEGIC PLANNING Chair Twomey stated that last year, it was the unanimous opinion of the School Committee to tackle strategic planning. There was concern for the timing and funding. Strategic Planning has now been built into the budget and the Committee is ready to move ahead.