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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1996-04-01 School Committee MinutesREADING PUBLIC SCHOOLS Reading, Massachusetts School Committee Meeting SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES APRIL 1, 1996 CALL TO ORDER Chair Matthew Cummings called the Special Meeting with the Screening Committee for the Reading Memorial High School Principalship at 8:32 p.m. All members were present with the exception of Timothy Twomey. Also present were Superintendent Dr. Harry K. Harutunian and Associate Superintendent Dennis Richards. Dr. Harry K. Harutunian introduced Mike Zapantis, Massachusetts Department of Education Science Coordinator, to the School Committee. PRINCIPAL CRITERIA Ms. Cavicchi stated it was important that the person chosen as the principal attend all of the Reading Memorial High School events. Mr. Spadafora added it's important that person be able to adapt for curriculum change, adoles- cent changes (urban issues) and facilities. Chair Cummings noted the need to stress academic excellence at all levels. Students need to be challenged and staff has to be motivated to meet all student's needs. Ms. D'Antona stressed the emotional needs. High standards have to be implemented for weaker teachers. This person has to be an agent for change, someone who is able to motivate staff and students and be sensitive. Mr. Stohlman emphasized that the principal focus on students. He /she should be able to evaluate people and their opinions and communicate both the positive and negative criticism. He /she should allow teachers to be innovative and enable good change. Ms. Cavicchi added the new principal should be ready to work with others, be optimistic and excited. Mr. Spadafora remarked that the new principal should be creative and be able to start up projects with little money. SPECIAL SESSION 2 APRIL 1, 1996 Chair Cummings mentioned the importance of a good track record. He /she should be even handed and carry through with fair, decisive actions. Mr. Stohlman stated he is looking for someone who has a track record for staying in one place for awhile, as well as a person you can talk to freely. Ms. D'Antona advised the person hired as Reading Memorial High School principal should be an advocate for staff, students, parents and the community. A parent stated they would like to see continuity and it would be nice to find a person who would see this position as their prize in life. Mr. Stohlman said candidates should be asked what reasons besides salary causes them to want to be a principal in Reading? PRINCIPAL SEARCH POLICY Mr. Stohlman asked if it was the Superintendent's intention to exclude parents of seniors from the committee. Dr. Harutunian said it was because he only wanted parents who were going to have a direct interest in the pricipal the school year following the selection. Dr. Harutunian asked if he could appoint a principal to the Reading Memorial High School principal screening committee in place of a town wide administrator. Ms D'Antona moved to modify the policy from the district wide administrator to an administra- tor. Ms. Cavicchi seconded the motion. The vote was 5 -0. The Superintendent advised that the next school committee meeting would be April 29. He indicated he has been answering questions Town Meeting members have about the budget. ADJOURN At 9.25 p.m. Mr. Spadafora moved to adjourn. Mr. Stohlman seconded the motion. The vote was 5 -0. Ms. Cavicchi Mr. Cummins Res ectfully submitted, Ms. D'Antona Mr. Spadafora Harr K. Harutunian, Ph.D. Mr. Stohlman Superintendent of Schools