1983-11-01 School Committee Minutes

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217 READING SCHOOL COMMITTEE MEETING NOVEMBER 1, 1983 Mr. Lahood briefly went into the establishment of a philosophy - it tenets being rooted in recognition of the technological revolution and the School Committee philosophy on education. Next the CLC developed goals and objectives, and then a preliminary plan for programs, and the hardware and software which would be needed. Mr. Papandreou then spoke about the pilot program, which uses the LOGO language, that was initiated, in- service training for teachers, and the positive reactions of both teachers and students. He noted that the LOGO Program, with its "turtle" graphics, is a very strong program, with a sound basis in mathematics and multiple applications, and is an excellent tool for developing a higher order of thinking. He added that it lends itself to the PASCAL language. In the elementary grades LOGO is being used with the Apple IIe Computers owned by the System. In the middle schools the emphasis will gradually shift from LOGO to BASIC. Mr. Papandreou presented School Committee members with a report entitled, "LOGO - A Pilot Program," which gave more specifics than the general report. Mr. Lahood briefly described the present computer curriculum at the Junior High Schools, a preparation for more advanced RMHS courses. Mrs.. Abegg spoke on expectations for computer use at the Middle Schools next year. Mr. Kelliher expanded on the use of the LOGO program in the elementary grades, adding that by using it the children are "learning how to learn." Following a brief question and answer period the Chairman thanked the CLC members for their progress report. Executive Session - Return to Open Session At 9:06 p. m. Mrs. Philbrick moved, seconded by Mr. MacDonald to enter into executive session to discuss bargaining and negotiations matters. The motion carried by a unanimous roll call vote. Attorney Allan Drachman joined the Committee for the executive session. The Committee returned to open session at 10:31 p. m. Financial Statements Noted for the record were the October financial statements - Account Balances and Salary and Expense Accounts. R PSIrYnt..i r)n Mr. Allan moved, seconded by Mr. MacDonald, and it was voted unanimously, on the recommendation of the Administration, to accept the resignation of Mrs. Annette D. Varnier as a teacher in the FOCUS Program, effective November 4, 1983. Appointment Mr. Nissen moved, seconded by Mr. Allen, and it was unanimously voted, on the recommendation of the Administration, to appoint Mrs. Janice L. Deveau to the Central Office secretarial vacancy created by the retirement of Mrs. Virginia McCormick, at an hourly rate of $86.35, effective when her position is Tilled in November. Adjournment On a motion by Mr. Nissen, seconded by Mr. Allen, the Committee voted. unanimously to adjourn at 10:44 p. m.