2009-02-11 School Committee Minutes

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Reading Public Schools Reading, Massachusetts Regular Meeting of the School Cc Open Session Date: February 11, 2009 Time: 7:30 p.m. (Open Session) Place: Superintendent's Conference Room School Committee Members Present Lisa Gibbs David Michaud Karen Janowski Chris Caruso Chuck Robinson Elaine Webb Visitors: )mmittea ~ 01 ~ pAl S. . = t1 ~ . Staff Members Present Patrick A. Schettini, Jr.-Superintendent of Schools John Doherty, Assistant Superintendent Mary DeLai, Director of Human Resource and Finances Melissa Russell, Reading Advocate Reading Chronicle Reporter Patty deGaravilla, Eaton Principal Karen Callan, Barrows Principal Richard Davidson, Wood End Principal Doug Lyons, Parker Principal RPS Budget Parents I. Call to Order Chairperson Robinson called the meeting to order at 7:30 p.m. He welcomed the guests that attended the meeting. He also reviewed the agenda. II. Recommended Procedure A. Public input (D 1. Mr. David Ventola thanked the administration and schools for their support of the Elementary Science teams (First LEGO League) which held a district wide competition recently at Coolidge. There were 17 teams (100 students) and 40 coaches and volunteers. The program was for grades 3 -5 and hopes to expand to the middle school next year. 2. Ruth Clogston, Program Director for Understanding Disabilities addressed the School Committee regarding restoring the funding for the program in the FY10 budget. She asked for $10,000, half of the previously funded amount. Linda Hank and Jeanne Cappuccio discussed the value of the Understanding Disabilities and support for continued funding. Sudie Fay, UD Board member stated that as the UD grant writer, she has submitted applications to two foundations. Superintendent Schettini stated that the school district supports the program and has met with Ms. Clogston and Mrs. Tucci to discuss ways to seek funding as well as methods to blend the UD program into the curriculum.