HomeMy WebLinkAbout1994-05-02 School Committee Minutes - RetreatREADING PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Reading, Massachusetts
SCHOOL COMMITTEE RETREAT - OPENING SESSION
RETREAT MINUTES
2 MAY 1994
The retreat was called to order by Chair Roberta D'Antona at
7:30 p.m. and all School Committee members were present. The
retreat opened with a brief roundtable discussion about a
letter from the Middlesex District Attorney about open
meeting law. The School Committee chair agreed to speak to
the District Attorney. Later on, the School Committee can
ask for a workshop session. The Superintendent advised that
Town Counsel Cohen will run an open meeting workshop for
School Councils.
With an eye on the long -range goals and priorities, the Chair
read a prepared statement about the absolute unacceptability
of intimidation, ridicule, and verbal and physical punishment
by students or teachers in our schools. School Committee
members supported the thrust of the statement. One said he
was bothered by concerns of a parent about too much emphasis
in winning. Another spoke about a praent rights policy
statement. The chair raised the issue of "where is
accountability."
A second topic of extended discussion was a Performance
Review of teachers and other staff members. The need for
standards was emphasized. One member reminded other members
of school committee goals about staff assignment and
revitalization.
A third topic was how to engage and involve parents. She
suggested, for example, the creation of support groups
helpful to parents such as coffee groups.
The retreat meeting adjourned at 10:00 p.m. until Thursday
when Professor Loveless from the Kennedy School of Government
will be with us to talk about school committee policymaking.
Respeafulty Submitted
I
Robert .1. Mun et y, Ed. D.
Superintendent Of Schools
Secretary To The School Committn