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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1992-12-02 School Committee MinutesREADING PUBLIC SCHOOLS Reading, Massachusetts SCHOOL COMMITTEE MEETING OPEN HEARING MINUTES DECEMBER 2, 1992 CALL TO ORDER The open hearing was called to order by School Committee member George Shannon at 7:25 p.m. in the Joshua Eaton Elementary School library. All members were present with the exception of Matthew Cummings. Also present were Superinten- dent Robert J. Munnelly and Interim Assistant Superintendent Susan Y. Wheltle. Mr. Shannon turned the meeting over to Eaton's Principal Donald Farnham who in turn welcomed the School Committee members and Reading citizens. P.T.A. President Katie Hunt spoke of the range of school programs the Joshua Eaton P.T.A. are in support such as visits to the Nutcracker Ballet, and the Kidsnet Program. Principal Farnham and Library -Media teacher Barbara MacLean described the National Geographic Kids Network programs with the help of Fifth Grader Jacob Scott and Fourth Grader Katie Sheedy. They demonstrated the "Hello" telecommunications unit, an interactive series of programs on data collection and analysis designed for elementary students. Ms. MacLean stated that Eaton has been working with 14 schools throughout the United States studying and exchanging information on pet ownership. Other projects they will be studying will be weather patterns and water use. Mr. Shannon thanked the students and Barbara MacLean for their presentation. COMMENT SESSION During the comment session, citizens asked questions about the MEAP testing results and the progress of the Assistant Superintendent search. The Superintendent gave a perspective on budget issues which face the Reading Community. He spoke on the need for school building renovation, the need to attend to enrollment increases in the operational budget and the need pay teaching and support staff salary. The budget timetable for the next 5 weeks was described and the involvement and participation of parents was encouraged. Dr. Munnelly also promoted attendance at the Forum on School Choice in the Lecture Hall at the High School, December 16th. OPEN HEARING MINUTES 2 DECEMBER 2, 1992 He stated the Secretary of Education Piedad Robertson will speak on the issue. Also available to discuss this important issue will be Representative Robert Krekorian. ADJOURNMENT The open hearing ajourned at 8:30 p.m.