1985-03-25 School Cimmittee Minutes

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36 READING SCHOOL COMMITTEE MINUTES MARCH 25 , 1985 Mrs. Bowe noted that 35 students participated in the Exhibition, doing routines which they had originated themselves. Mr. Fitzgerald added that High School physical education teacher Thomas Myslicki and some of his students came to Coolidge daily to help, on a volunteer basis, and said he was impressed by the ■ way High School students have taught the younger students over the years. Mr. Alterio pointed out that gymnastics were only a representative part of the yearly physical education program, noting that staff members were very willing and enthusiastic and that there is great emphasis on enjoyment of physical edu- cation. After students Derilyn Kenney and David Savio answered several questions from the School Committee, Chairman Allen thanked all who participated for their interesting presentation. Budget Review Dr. Wells explained that when the Chairman met for the second time with the Finance Committee(FinCom) they were told the expense budget was $81,434 more than the FinCom's guidelines but that he later received a letter from FinCom Chairman Russell Graham saying his Committee was in error. Mr. Winslow added that since then the FinCom has taken a vote and their figure is now in agree- ment with the School Committee's figure. Dr. Wells noted that this figure includes funds for Kalwal windows at Coolidge Middle School. Chairman Allen called for a motion to clarify the matter before it goes to the Town Meeting. Mr. Coco moved, seconded by Mr. Shannon, and it was voted unanimously that the School Committee approve for presentation to Town Meeting the amount of $2,047,824 for the expense portion of the budget. Portables - Pearl Street School Dr. Wells said that the School Committee had voted some time ago to transfer the control of portables to the Board of Selectmen, adding that the Selectmen have not rented either the single portable at the Library or the two at the Pearl Street School. He continued, saying that the School Department, under an agree- ment with the Selectmen, is now renting the Pearl Street School because every- one had agreed that it is better to have the building used than to close it. Dr. Wells said that now the Central Office is receiving inquiries about renting the portables which, he added, are more attractive to rent than the School itself. Last fall Chairman Allen and Dr. Wells approached the Selectmen about returning control of the portables to the School Committee. Dr. Wells said a more recent talk with the Selectmen resulted in a letter to the School Committee which essen- tially stated that they would not consider signing a lease for more than a year because they believe the portables would be an ideal location for senior citizen activities when the Community Center is sold. He concluded by recommending that the School Committee either decline the Selectmen's offer or request that they consider a long-term arrangement.