1991-01-14 School Committee Minutes - Budget Hearing

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READING PUBLIC SCHOOLS Reading, Massachusetts SCHOOL COMMITTEE HEARING FOR FY 1992 BUDGET BUDGET HEARING CALL TO ORDER JANUARY 14, 1991 The Budget Hearing was called to order in the auditorium of the Reading Memorial High School on January 14, 1991 at 7:00 p.m. All members of the School Committee were present with the excep- tion of Carol Lyons, who was expected to arrive later, and Mary Williams. Also present were Superintendent Robert J. Munnelly, Assistant Superintendent Lynn M. Bak, Business Manager Warren Hopkins, over ninety members of the Reading community, and a reporter from the Chronicle. The purpose of the Hearing, open to all residents of the Town of Reading, was to present the budget approved by the School Commit- tee to the public for their comments and input. Dr. Munnelly began the presentation of the budget by outlining the Level Service Budget that School Committee members voted to pre- sent to the Town Manager for FY 1992. On an overhead Dr. Munnelly reviewed the 13.9 staff reductions that were taken in FY 1991, noting that an Instrumental Music Teacher for Middle Schools was supported by 80 -10 -10 monies making the final staff cuts for FY 1991 a total of 12.9. While the Hearing was in progress, there were many comments and questions regarding the importance to maintain staff and service in reading, guidance, English, science and math at the high school, library /media, computers, the arts, athletics, and special education at the middle school. Several citizens also encouraged the school committee to maintain a comprehensive education program when considering the budget. This would include the balance of academics, arts, and athletics. A few of Reading citizens question the proposed trash fee proposal made by Selectman Dan Ensminger. Chairman Nissen replied that school committee members will be discussing this proposal with the Selectmen on January 17th.