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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1997-08-04 School Committee MinutesREADING PUBLIC SCHOOLS Reading, Massachusetts School Committee Meeting REGULAR SESSION MINUTES AUGUST 4, 1997 CALL ORDER Chair Timothy Twomey called the regular session to order at 8:00 p.m. in the Superintendent's Conference Room. All members were present. Also present were Superintendent Dr. Harry K. Harutunian and Associate Superintendent Dennis Richards. Mr. Twomey noted this was the first School Committee Meeting of the school year. Mr. Twomey briefly went over the items on the agenda that were to be discussed this evening. Dr. Harutunian explained to the School Committee that two individuals were being considered for Recording Secretary for the School Committee meeting and that tonight Linda Boutoures would be taking notes and another candidate would be taking notes at the August 5, 1997 meeting and after reviewing both candidates' minutes, a decision would be made early next week. Mr. Twomey noted that the approval of the minutes which is usually the first item done would be put off until the end of the meeting. ROUTINE MATTERS CITIZENS INPUT Gail Phillips Spence spoke about her daughter who will be attending kindergarten at Barrows this year. When Ms. Spence went to the Open House in May, she was told the class size was 23 children and she spoke to Mr. Papandreau and was told that would change. Later on Ms. Spence expressed concern to Dr. Harutunian who also expected the class size to change. Today Ms. Spence found out that the class size did change to 24 and she feels that this class size is too large for a kindergarten. Ms. Spence made a comment regarding replacing a full time teacher who is retiring with a part -time teacher and she feels a full -time should be replaced with another full -time teacher. REGULAR SESSION MINUTES -2- AUGUST 4, 1997 A concerned citizen spoke about a meeting last summer where it was said that the minutes from the joint site meetings would be available. This was true throughout the summer, but through the rest of the year, they were hard to attain. Mr. Twomey dropped down on the agenda to the Concerned Parents of Reading. NEW BUSINESS CONCERNED PARENTS OF READING Mr. Twomey told the CPR that the Committee would give them a time frame of 45 minutes to talk about the Chicago Math Program and that after that the Administration could give their comments. Finally, if the School Committee members had any comments, they would have their time. Mr. Twomey opened the discussion up to the CPR. Dr. Mandell spoke on behalf of CPR and thanked the School Committee for the opportunity to discuss concerns about the Chicago Math Program. CPR was formed by a group of concerned parents who noticed that their young children were not displaying the same mathematical skills as their older brothers and sisters. Following an April Math Night, CPR grew more concerned when they found out that the University of Chicago Math Program that they were learning was a new approach to the teaching of Mathematics. As CPR researched the Chicago Math Program they learned that computational skills were given less attention and practice and the use of a calculator was emphasized over the ability to solve the problems. Dr. Mandell continued to give several reasons why CPR feels the Chicago Math program needs attending. Dr. Mandell said CPR has had three simple requests: 1) Test all incoming 5th graders 2) Form a Math Task Force 3) Determine how the Chicago Math Program was chosen Dr. Mandell states that the Chicago Math Program is a highly experimental math program with no verifiable research to substantiate its tests. The studies are poorly designed and the children are at risk. CPR states that Reading can do better by our children. CPR would also remind the Committee that in REGULAR SESSION MINUTES -3- AUGUST 4, 1997 California the experience has been a negative one and that California is currently ranked in the bottom 4 of the fifty states of mathematics achievement. Dr. Mandell continued to give several examples of why CPR felt that the Chicago Math Program showed any positive evidence of elevating test scores for our children. Mr. Mandell also spoke about the Administration not releasing anonymous teacher surveys for public review. Mr. Mandell thanked the Committee for their attention. Mrs. Mandell spoke about Dr. Bishop who had done an evaluation of the text books and stated that the kids only get 500 of what they need from these texts. This year her daughter was in fourth grade and almost completed the 1st journal and the second journal is empty except for about 4 pages. Mrs. Mandell feels that the teachers are not saying how great the program is or how poor it is because they are afraid to come forward. She feels her daughter is not getting the material she needs. Mrs. Mandell had her daughter tested and she is 2 years behind in computation skills. Daughter is being tutored and right now finishing up at a third grade level. Mrs. Mandell feels you cannot go by the grades. Mrs. Mandell feels the kids should be tested and would like the Committee not to say should be but would be tested. Annie Sgroi, CPR Mrs. Sgroi had her children tested. Her daughter had 1 year of information handed to her in the last few months of school. Some teachers were introducing information all year others were not. Last meeting raised the question of who is policing the principal and how is the principal policing the children. Not all of her daughters books were completed, had to ask for the books, were being kept back, her tax money is being spent on these journals. Has to hold the principal accountable and the teachers. Have to ask the question? What is Chicago Math? Make sure to look through the curriculum. REGULAR SESSION MINUTES -4- AUGUST 4, 1997 Ron Macaren, CPR Concerned about Chicago Math Program in regards to long multiplication and long division, use of calculators over pen and paper. Frank Gordon, CPR Children tested around town, what about struggling kids? Where do they fall. Very concerned about the 3rd grade at Joshua Eaton, some kids are not learning their multiplication tables. Mr. Gordon feels children need the basics to achieve. Mrs. Mandell, CPR Mrs. Mandell reviewed the research used in choosing Chicago Math. Gave dates and votes regarding the decision. Mr. Twomey gave the Administration a chance to speak. Dennis Richards stated it was difficult to digest all of the information tonight. The attempt of Mike Zapantis to answer concerns. Spoke with teachers and Dr. Redford regarding concerns. Admits lack of consistency in elementary mathematics. The Mass Dept. Of Education feels that Reading is teaching what they need to be teaching and the curriculum is in line with their expectations. There may be gaps and if there are, they will fill them in. When Mr. Richards hears this evening that a teacher is not teaching, we would go to the principal. And with reference to calculators, we are not advocates of calculators as a use. Dr. Harutunian thanked parents. He explained that neither he nor Mr. Richards were in the district when the Chicago decision was made. Dr. Harutunian asked Mr. Redford and Mr. Papandreau to be here tonight because they were in the district at the time. Reading wants to be one of the best districts in the area. Dr. Harutunian gave examples of other districts in the area using Chicago math. Dr. Harutunian referred to an article in the Wall Street Journal and paraphrased several issues reported in the article. Dr. Harutunian asked Mr. Zapantis to do a report in which he spent 90 hours working on. Dr. Harutunian reviewed the report and feels that Mr. Zapantis has excellent credentials. Dr. Harutunian reviewed the recommendations: REGULAR SESSION MINUTES -5- AUGUST 4, 1997 1. Professional development, recommending line item in budget. Continuing to move ahead with professional development. 2. Teachers should spend a minimum of 5 hours each week on math instruction. 3. Continuity - to move ahead with the grade 5 Chicago Math program. 4. Reading Public Schools should do the Stanford 9 Intermediate I test in the fall of 1997 to test all grade 5 students. 5. Community involvement /parent involvement, Math Night, parent training, classroom involvement. Dr. Harutunian noted that there has been a lot of criticism of this report by Mr. Zapantis and if anyone would like to stop by the office and pick up a copy, please do. Since the report has come out, received letter from the President of National Council of Teachers of Mathematics. Mr. Harutunian stated he is looking forward to working with the CPR to improve quality of instruction in the schools. Mike Zapantis - very rare that you hear anyone arguing about standards. Standards are the best thing to happen to education, and without them every state and every community would be doing something different. There may be implementation issues. Mr. Zapantis has never heard of any connection financial or otherwise between NTSM and Chicago, maybe an endorsement. Dr. Redford - called several towns around when looking for the program, worked with teachers, 17 people on the board at the time. Questionnaire was given out to teachers, response was a program that was comprehensive. Need for professional development and for mathematics to be tied into everyday development and real life situations. In the 1988 report, looked into all kinds of program, many textbooks based. Always believed in a manipulative approach. Found that Chicago Math Program was the best choice. A teacher at Winchester though it was a great program, kids love it, however a lot of work for the teachers, need to applaud teachers, we have come a long way. Mr. Papandreau, principal for 24 years, taught 6th grade for 13 years, last 7 -8 years teaching accelerated 5th graders. Had opportunity to look at journals and envies every 5th grade teacher, all there for them, interesting, stimulating and challenging. Expectations are high. Raised the standards. REGULAR SESSION MINUTES -6- AUGUST 4, 1997 Research shows that Math is about the only subject that is not integrated, always taught in isolation, but this program does integrate. Mr. Twomey asked the School Committee for questions or comments: Mary Williams - talked to several teachers in different areas, some loved it others felt different. Some teachers spoke about supplementing and how some teachers felt they knew how to teach and others followed the book. What should be done. Dr. Redford stated that you should stay with the program as much as they can. Ms. Williams asked if the teachers are talking amongst themselves, Dr. Redford answered yes they are and new manuals are always being ordered for teachers. Ms. Williams also spoke about some teachers not wanting to use the program, specifically old teachers vs. new teachers and old math vs new math. Ms. Williams also stated talking to parents, most Reason being English not have the money in the di development, in addition speak to keep up. that just b of the kids being first strict to do parents had =_ing in California and are in private schools. language. Schools do not the professional an additional tax so to When we have a new teacher coming on, what kind of support do we give them to cover the material. Dr. Harutunian answered that in past years, it was the principal who would give instructional guidance. Testing in late September or late October, what is the difference in time? Dr. Harutunian stated that the first 30 -45 days are informational, we need to purchase pre -test. Students need to get used to being back. Ms. Williams wants to now how long test needs to get back. Dennis Richards answered approximately 6 -8 weeks. Mr. Twomey asked for other Committee comments. Tom Stohlman thanked CPR for their information and the reports. Mr. Stohlman feels there are some recommendations that should be addressed. REGULAR SESSION MINUTES -7- AUGUST 4, 1997 1. Professional Development, Mr. Stohlman feels this is a good idea. Dr. Redford spoke about a seminar he attended at the University of Chicago for all teachers, that there was a fair amount of content, how to manage the program was discussed, how to make the program viable for all students above and below level. Mr. Stohlman would encourage elementary level teachers to explain concepts of math. Mr. Stohlman continued with his recommendations: 2. Math instruction should be 5 hours a week, a step down from what the surveys show, already have significantly more than 5 hours in most grades except 5th grade. Mr. Stohlman would like to see current hours maintained or increased. Dr. Harutunian spoke about when new curriculum is brought in, teachers will be trained on an ongoing process. Mr. Stohlman expressed concern on testing and feedback and improvement, does not need to be explained this evening, but at the September 8, 1997 meeting would like to know what the current feedback mechanism is. Feels the parents feel like there is something wrong and would like to discuss this further. Dennis Richards spoke about frameworks and the impact it will have. State has new testing program to give more feedback and gather information. 3. Should be testing, no argument there. 4. Parental involvement - have to give the parents a pamphlet of some sort, so they know by the end of the school year what their child should have learned. Dennis Richards responded to Mr. Stohlman by saying he agrees with him and the Administration is going to be doing that and in addition give examples of students work. Rob Spadafora had a few comments. Wanted to thank CPR group and the Administrations for all the information presented. Looking over the literature and hearing discussion tonight try to pry apart information the substance and material. Bring all the REGULAR SESSION MINUTES -8- AUGUST 4, 1997 subjects into the classroom. Implementation screams out at us, the US is far behind in giving teachers adequate planning time. When talking about accountability, we do need to hold the principals responsible for the teachers. Appreciates everyone being involved and thinks the process has gone just fine. Susan Cavicchi - hearing all sides, and specifically on the CPR side traditional is best, change is difficult, and the basics are not taught and on the side of the teachers and administrators she hears excitement, holding ourselves up to higher standards, two kinds of feelings, more excited about Chicago Math. With more professional development and more parent training feeling very comfortable. As a former teacher a long time ago teaching new math, new concepts are difficult and if children are excited there must be something to this. Testing is not a be all and end all. A paper and pencil test does not always measure what children have learned specifically the Stanford 9. Mr. Zapantis responded to Ms. Cavicchi's comments about the Stanford 9 being a very comprehensive test both in measuring and computational skills and concepts in mathematics, his recommendation is to go with the Stanford 9. Robin D'Antona - two things that are really clear one being professional development and the need for it and that our teachers must be leaders. Comfortable with the program, but would like to hear more about he professional development. Dennis Richards - responded by telling the Committee that this summer all the teachers are getting together to talk about each grade level and what they will be doing. There is also a 3 day seminar for teachers regarding methodology and what is expected of the teachers. Dr. Harutunian added that Reading teachers put in their all. In FY99 budget there is money put aside for 6 -8 math and having Donna Pappalardo working closely with 5th grade. Mr. Twomey opened the discussion up to non -CPR members. Karen Epstein does not have a child in the school system as of yet, daughter starts 1st grade this year and she would like to do it right, it is not the teachers responsibility but hers as well. REGULAR SESSION MINUTES -9- AUGUST 4, 1997 Had a question regarding how private schools choose their math programs. Where do they get their resources. Dr. Harutunian responded that he does not remember private schools being a major player in comparing with Reading. Reading uses a test called ERB which some private schools use and the students have tested well. Concerned parent expressed that so far Chicago math has worked well for her daughters but is concerned about the continuity throughout the schools. Doug McGlathery feels gratified that the Committee read the materials he sent. Parent of a first grader and a teacher at Cambridge High. Cambridge uses Chicago Math. Feels there will be some sort of problems with kids entering 5th grade. Would suggest a lot of experts out there, not one exact answer. Happy that Mr. Stohlman focused on the article and we need to dedicate time to figure this all out. Nancy Matheson - questioned why Doug new so much about Chicago Math, is there any involvement with the Town? Doug answered that he has known about the program for a few years and his involvement with Reading is in regards to his son's school. Gail Spence - not all parents are against Chicago Math, attended Math Night in April and questioned how Chicago Math would be implemented, teacher said the parent could observe class. Teacher presented problem and all of the class had a chance to figure it out. Another example was given that daughter came home and said in Math class today we read a book which related to math, experienced teacher was involved. Likes idea of a master teacher. Karen Chowsky - program would benefit our children. One comment that older child had a chance to observe younger sister's program and stated the second grader got a better education than she did. Dr. Mandell had a few more comments. He had spoken to other systems and it would be interesting to see if Lexington could share their results. Still does not understand why Harcourt Grace was passed over? Again, why the surveys are not available. Pre -test offered, what is the purpose? Dr. Harutunian stated it REGULAR SESSION MINUTES -10- AUGUST 4, 1997 was just to get child acclimated to the test. Dr. Harutunian spoke about the close vote. Negative feedback has been given regarding turning over the results. Mr. Twomey asked not to debate the issue. Mary Williams spoke about when she was talking about California, she would like to clarify she was not talking about ethnic or poor communities. Mr. Twomey thanked everyone for their comments and went back to the beginning regarding the three questions CPR raised. 1. Testing will be done. 2. Form a Math Task Force Mr. Stohlman still had some questions regarding what the math curriculum is? Would like to continue this discussion on September 8th. 3. Release of teacher surveys whether or not they can be handed out. Mr. Stohlman does not see any problems with a complete summary of all the questions that were asked, does not have to have any teachers names. Dennis Richards responded to a question asked by Dr. Mandell on the nature of the decision process, not unusual for a group of people committed to all kinds of standards in this district to take votes as a way to see which direction the Committee seems to be going, there was nothing covert in their attempt to go with Chicago Math. Mr. Twomey thanked everyone again. The Committee took a break at 10:40 p.m. and resumed at 10:45 p.m. NEW BUSINESS Dr. Harutunian spoke briefly about the Capital Transfers the Committee needed to vote on. REGULAR SESSION MINUTES -11- AUGUST 4, 1997 Mr. Spadafora moved to approve the transfer of $13,921.12 from the Oil Tank Removal Account to cover the portable classroom move. Mr. Stohlman seconded the motion. The vote was 6 -0. Ms. D'Antona moved to approve the transfer of $11,323.00 from the Oil Tank Removal Account in the School Vehicle Account. Mr. Stohlman seconded. Mr. Stohlman questioned the new vehicle proposal. Dr. Harutunian responded with positive reasons. The vote was 6 -0. Ms. D'Antona moved to approve the transfer of $10,000.00 from the Oil Tank Removal Account for Computer allocation. R. Spadafora seconded. The vote was 6 -0. Dr. Harutunian explained the Joshua Eaton Project exceeded the total by $5,000.00 in Phase I and would like the Committee to transfer the $5,000.00 from Phase II into Phase I. Ms. Cavicchi moved to transfer 55,000.00 from Phase II to Phase I of the Joshua Eaton Project. Ms. D'Antona seconded. The vote was 6 -0. The Liaison from the Finance Committee was present at the meeting and spoke on behalf of the Committee stating that they look forward to working closely with the School Committee in the future, however, when they are on the agenda for a specific time, they would hope that would happen. DARE PROGRAM Dr. Harutunian asked Sgt. Stamatis to join the meeting. Just completed second year of the DARE Program. Committee asked that a survey be done. The feedback that came back was overwhelmingly positive and there is a recommendation that consideration be given to implementing a middle school DARE Program. Dr. Harutunian has spoke with Sgt. Stamatis and would work with the middle school to see if the program should be implemented. R. D'Antona stated that two years in the DARE Program is a beginning, but she would like to see a quantitative study done before expansion to see the effects of the DARE program. R. Spadafora is the School Committee's liaison to the Drug Alcohol Task Force and the Task Force did have a lot of concerns about what is going on around us in regards to problems in other towns and how it relates to the middle school. REGULAR SESSION MINUTES -12- AUGUST 4, 1997 Mr. Spadafora thanked Officer Stamatis for his work. Mr. Stohlman would like to hear a report back from the Middle School Restructuring Committee on their recommendation of the DARE Program in the middle School. OLD BUSINESS Parental Notification Law Mr. Richards indicated he spoke with Ted Cohen and the School Committee's Policy on Parental Notification Law meets with the State's requirements. Mr. Spadafora commented that after the last Committee's discussion, he responded with his reservations regarding the consequences of not educating our students. Our only tool is education. Would like everyone to think about that. Mr. Stohlman offered some different wording he would like to change. Mr. Stohlman moved to chanae the sentence at the beainnina of the third paragraph to read: "Each such notice to parents /guardians will include a brief description of the curriculum covered by this policy, will include the reasons said curriculum is offered, and will inform parents /guardians that they may" Mr. Spadafora seconded the motion and the vote was 6 -0. Ms. D'Antona moved to accept the policy as amended dated June 6, 1997, Ms. Cavacchi seconded. The vote was 6 -0. PERSONNEL Dr. Harutunian spoke about the resignation of Mr. Skip Bandini as Director of Facilities effective September 1st. Mr. Bandini took into consideration the travel time and increase in salary in making his decision. Dr. Harutunian has spoke with the Town Manager and will begin in a few weeks seeking a replacement, but in the interim has appointed Dominic Cacciapuoti as acting Director of facilities. Dr. Harutunian spoke about the Middle School Instructional Specialists. Donna Pappalardo has been selected for Grades 6 -9 in Math and Science and Ellen Howard has been selected to be the Social Studies Specialist for Grades 6 -8. Dr. Harutunian stated both candidates are great teachers. REGULAR SESSION MINUTES -13- AUGUST 4, 1997 ROUTINE MATTERS SUPERINTENDENT'S REPORT Dr. Harutunian made a statement regarding the last three months. Two years ago when Dr. Harutunian came on board, the split has moved to 65/35. The Town of Reading wants to spend 5% more. Reading has a level of civility and a Committee that works hard. Reading has an outstanding School System built on hard working and devoted teachers and with a great support staff. Reading is moving forward to be one of the top schools in Massachusetts. Dr. Harutunian spoke of the role change of the Assistant Superintendent Dennis Richards taking on more responsibility in the fall of 197 specifically in curriculum and less personnel responsibility. Encourage parent involvement, continue to meet with clergy, Realtors, etc. Reading is a great town. Ms. D'Antona responded to what Dr. Harutunian had said and told him he has her respect and appreciation and would further encourage the Administration to focus on curriculum and to focus on the kids. Dr. Harutunian - Update of Building Projects enclosed. Reading Technology Plan has been accepted by the State without any revisions and we are very excited about this and thank Cindy Conti for her work. Also the MESPA Technology Center has notified us that Reading will be participating in a grant of about $30,000 with matching funds from Cablevision and MCET for a total of about $90,000 and the other towns we will be working with are Stoneham, Burlington and Medford. Parker Plaques - ongoing saga, look them over and if there is any change call the office in the morning. Fiscal Year 1997 - pleased to notify the Committee that School Department will be ending year with more than $24,793. Cheery Sheet - the FY1997 and FY1998 increase of $584,514, not new money, money that was anticipated. REGULAR SESSION MINUTES -14- AUGUST 4 1997 SBAB - will be receiving the money earlier and almost twice as much. Parker Project - draft summary, anticipating turn back $789,950.00 to town. New England Schools and Colleges - A letter is enclosed from the New England Association of Schools and Colleges indicating Reading has been given continued accreditation. Mid year report will be required and due on March 1, 1998. Improvement on science labs is being done but will probably not be done by the beginning of school. Students Attending other Schools - Currently have 1 student in choice who is attending Mascanomet. Presently have out of 4,400 school age children attending, 145 are in private or parochial, 98% of Reading High School graduates do indeed graduate. There are 4 -6 home taught children. Athletic Hall of Fame - Back in October of 1995 we were going to the Hall of Fame, enclosed are the by -laws and a list of inductees. Mr. Spadafora express concern about the function the School Committee had over the Hall of Fame? Dr. Harutunian stated that School Department had nothing to do with the decisions. Certificates - The Administration feels when an individual is recognized for outstanding performance they should receive a certificate. Mr. Stohlman requested all the Committee's names be listed so they could sign. Donna Pappalardo has been chosen as a Massachusetts State Level Finalist for this year's President Awards for Excellence in Massachusetts and Mathematics and Science teacher. The timing could not have been better. Mr. Stohlman requested that in the future, could the minutes be done quicker than in the past. INFORMATION AND PROPOSALS Enclosed is a budget calendar for Fiscal Year 1999 and a School Committee calendar of meetings. ROUTINE MATTERS REGULAR SESSION MINUTES -15- AUGUST 4, 1997 MINUTES Mr. Spadafora moved to approve the minutes of September 26, 1996. Ms. D'Antona seconded, the vote was 5 in favor and one abstain. Mr. Spadafora moved to approve the minutes of January 14, 1997, Ms. Williams seconded the vote was 5 in favor and one abstain. Mr. Spadafora moved to approve the minutes of Mav 19, 1997, Mr. Stohlman seconded. A correction on Page 3 and to insert High School in paragraph 2, 4th line down to read to establish a High School Diversity Committee. The minutes were approved as amended and the vote was 6 -0. Mr. Spadafora moved to approve the minutes of June 2, 1997, Ms. Cavicchi seconded, the vote was 6 -0. R. Spadafora moved to accept the minutes of June 9, 1997. Ms. Cavicchi seconded. Mr. Stohlman had some changes and additions. Mr. Stohlman moved to table minutes, the vote was 6 -0. Mr. Spadafora moved to accept the minutes of June 16, 1997. Ms. Cavicchi seconded. In the last paragraph of page 3 change could to would, on page 4 Mr. Stohlman is concerned about the amendments in the motions, delete them, on page 5 last paragraph strike Ms. Williams and insert and, on page 7 list points of contract, page 8 change reorganization, minutes were amended and vote was 6 -0. Mr. Spadafora moved to accept the minutes of June 23, 1997. Ms. Williams seconded, in paragraph 2 change chaired to represented, in paragraph 4 change Ms. Richardson to Ms. Richissin minutes were amended and vote was 6 -0. Mr. Spadafora moved to adjourn the regular session at 12:25 a.m. and go into Executive Session. Ms. Cavicchi seconded, the vote was 6 -0. Ms. Cavicchi, Ms. D'Antona, Mr. Spadafora, Mr. Stohlman, Mr. Twomey and Ms. Williams. Respectfully s bmitted, 6H&arry Harutunian, Ph.D. Superintendent of Schools