2004-01-20 School Committee Minutes

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Regular Session 2 January 20, 2004 CALL TO ORDER Vice Chair Mr. McFadden called the meeting to order at 7:30 p.m. in the Superintendent's Conference Room. Present were School Committee Members Carpenter, Vice Chair McFadden, Russo, Spadafora and Webb. Also present were Superintendent Schettini and Associate Superintendent Richards. Also present were Finance Committee members Richard MacDonald, Robert LeLacheur and Cathy Martin and Town Accountant Richard Foley. Chair Dahl was out of town. PUBLIC HEARING ON FY 05 BUDGET Mr. Russo discussed why he not running for School Committee. Linda Zarrow stated that the Understanding Disabilities newsletter is available. Ms. Burke read a statement requesting the school committee support the Drama program at the RMHS and increase the funding for extra-curricular activities in general and for the Drama in particular in the FY 05 budget. Ms. Golini, Co-President of Parents Supporting Student Theatre, read a prepared statement. They are concerned about adding another sport to the extra-curricular budget without adding funding for band and drama. Mr. LaCroix, president of the band, echoed Ms. Golini's concerns. Mr. Rogers, drama parent informed the committee that Lexington has two full time drama positions at their High School. Ms. Liston, drama parent, High School PTO president, and in charge of Coolidge's enrichment program stated that all enrichment is funded by the PTO. Mr. Vaccaro stated the Lacrosse is committed to the FY 05 budget. Ms. Phillips commented on her concerns that 12.5 special education assistants were added without being mentioned at school committee meetings. Ms. Perry stated that school committee should spend the same dollar amount for each student on extra curricula activities. Mr. Vaccaro stated his concerns that different sports take more time and more money. He agreed to compare Band, Drama and Athletics to see what % is being paid by the budget for each.