1996-02-26 School Committee Minutes

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REGULAR SESSION MINUTES 2 FEBRUARY 26 1996 FOLLOW UP FROM STUDENT ADVISORY COUNCM Dr. Harutunian requested Reading Memorial High School (RMHS) students Marissa Freitas and Scott Given explain the revised RMHS Student Contract, Rules and Consequences for Item #3. They noted, parents and police will be notified in all occasions involving the consumption of alcohol at student dances. RMHS Principal Mirkin recently met with Tom Rielly and Chief Marchand and expanded the rule on how to follow -up on the consequences of the rules for dances and students arrested outside of the school. Dr. Harutunian stated restitution and /or service time would be expected from the student. Mr. Spadafora added prevention as well as enforcement needs to be focused on. Mr. Twomey asked if counseling would be provided and who would pay. The Superintendent advised that both the family and student would receive counseling. The district attorney will need to approve first. The counseling would be covered by the family insurance. Student representative Michael Thompson stated peer leadership is working to help students as issues change. He added that they try to stay ahead of the issues. PRESENTATION ON ALTERNATIVE PROGRAM FOR STUDENTS WHO MISUSE CHEMICALS Jane Fiore, Prevention Education Coordinator, advised that they are reaching out to the parent community through the schools, students, churches, women's clubs, and enforcement agencies. An alternative program for students suspended at RMHS for a chemical misuse offense is being developed. Ms. Fiore stressed strengthening listening skills; understand that a parents job is 24 hours /7 days a week; realize what is important to your family; seek help when a mistake is made and realize that punishment is not forever. Dr. Harutunian stated we need to be more proactive with middle school students and become more sensitive to issues of the school and community. Ms. Cavicchi added that it seems students are not taking responsibility for themselves. She asked if peer pressure could work to have students help each other in the school atmosphere as well as behind the scenes.