Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAbout2014-03-31 School Committee Packet School Committee Meeting March 31 , 2014 Superintendent's Conference Room Open Session 7:00 P•M• :7-...74,7).;.,, Town of Reading Meeting Posting with Agenda Board - Committee - Commission - Council: School Committee Date: 2014-03-31 Time: 7:00 PM Building: School - Memorial High Location: Superintendent Conference Room Address: 82 Oakland Road Purpose: Open Session Meeting Called By: Linda Engelson on behalf of the Chair Notices and agendas are to be posted 48 hours in advance of the meetings excluding Saturdays, Sundays and Legal Holidays. Please keep in mind the Town Clerk's hours of operation and make necessary arrangements to be sure your posting is made in an adequate amount of time. A listing of topics that the chair reasonably anticipates will be discussed at the meeting must be on the agenda. All Meeting Postings must be submitted in typed format; handwritten notices will not be accepted. Topics of Discussion: AGENDA Call to Order 7:00 p.m. II Recommended Procedure A. Public Input(I) B. Reports 1. Students 2. Liaison 3. Superintendent 4. Sub-Committee 5. Assistant Superintendents 6. Director of Student Services C. Continued Business 1. FY15 Budget(I/A) 2. Director of Student Services Update(A) D. New Business 1. Parker Middle School Presentation (I) 2. Discussion Regarding the Formation of a School Building Committee(A) E. Routine Matters 1. Bills and Payroll (A) 2. Minutes (A) March 24, 2014 3. Bids and Donations(A) Accept a Donation from Friends of Reading Hockey to RMHS Accept a Donation from PSST to RMHS Accept a Donation from the Coolidge PTO Accept a Donation from the RMHS PTO Accept a Donation from the Reading Education Foundation 4. Calendar(I) This Agenda has been prepared in advance and represents a listing of topics that the chair reasonably anticipates will be discussed at the meeting. However the agenda does not necessarily include all matters which may be taken up at this meeting. Page I 1 Town of Reading 1 - l Meeting Posting with Agenda F. Information III Future Business I Informational A Action Item All times are approximate and may change. This Agenda has been prepared in advance and represents a listing of topics that the chair reasonably anticipates will be discussed at the meeting.However the agenda does not necessarily include all matters which may be taken up at this meeting. Page 12 John F. Doherty,Ed. D. Mary C. DeLai Superintendent of Schools - - Assistant Superintendent for Finance and Administration 82 Oakland Road - Reading,MA 01867 . r =` Craig Martin Phone:781-944-5800 ,:__ Assistant Superintendent Fax:781-942-9149 f for Learning and Teaching Reading Public Schools Instilling a joy of learning and inspiring the innovative leaders of tomorrow TO: Reading School Committee FROM: John F. Doherty, Ed.D. Superintendent of Schools DATE: March 28, 2014 TOPIC: Parker Middle School Presentation On Monday evening, members of the Parker Costa team will share some of the work that interdisciplinary teams across the building have started with implementing student-led conferences. We will discuss strategies for weaving self-reflection into the writing process in all content areas and demonstrate how teachers guide students to acknowledge, appreciate, and articulate their growth while also establishing future goals. If you have any questions,please contact me. The Reading Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race,color,sex,gender identity,religion,national origin,sexual orientation, age or disability. John F. Doherty,Ed. D. Mary C. DeLai Superintendent of Schools Assistant Superintendent for Finance and Administration 82 Oakland Road Reading,MA 01867 Craig Marten Phone:781-944-5800 Assistant Superintendent Fax:781-942-9149 for Learning and Teaching Reading Public Schools Instilling a joy of learning and inspiring the innovative leaders of tomorrow TO: Reading School Committee FROM: John F. Doherty, Ed.D. Superintendent of Schools DATE: March 28, 2014 TOPIC: FY15 Budget As you know the Finance Committee voted to support an increase of$200,000 to the School Committee FY15 budget. The School Committee will need to reduce the FY15 budget by $350,000. On Monday evening, I will make recommendations for those reductions to the budget. If you have any questions, please contact me. The Reading Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race,color,sex,gender identity,religion,national origin,sexual orientation, age or disability. John F. Doherty,Ed. D. Mary C. DeLai Superintendent of Schools =- '' Assistant Superintendent for Finance and Administration ?'rte 82 Oakland Road Reading,MA 01867 = Craig Martin Phone:781-944-5800 ::_ Assistant Superintendent Fax:781-942-9149 - . for Learning and Teaching Reading Public Schools Instilling a joy of learning and inspiring the innovative leaders of tomorrow TO: Reading School Committee FROM: John F. Doherty, Ed.D. Superintendent of Schools DATE: March 28, 2014 TOPIC: Director of Student Services Search Update At Monday night's meeting, I will be recommending to you Carolyn Wilson for the Director of Student Services Position. The Screening Committee interviewed a limited pool of candidates; however, Carolyn emerged as an outstanding person for the position. We have interviewed her multiple times and her recommendations are very strong. Ms. Wilson is currently a Team Facilitation Leader in the Newburyport Public Schools. She has a Master's of Education from Simmons College, a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Saint Anselm College, and a Doctor of Jurisprudence from Suffolk University. She will be attending the School Committee meeting on Monday evening to be interviewed by the Committee. I am including her resume in the packet. If you have any questions, please contact me. The Reading Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race,color,sex,gender identity,religion,national origin,sexual orientation, age or disability. Carolyn J . Wilson EDUCATION SUFFOLK UNIVERSITY LAW SCHOOL,Boston,Massachusetts Juris Doctor,May 2010 Class Rank: Top 13%(18/138) Honors: Moot Court Honor Board Staff(2008-2010),Case Comment Editor for Journal of Trial& Appellate Advocacy(2009-2010),Dean's List(Summer 2007-2009),Rappaport Fellow (2009),Legal Practice Skills Class Distinguished Oral Advocate and Honorable Mention Brief Award(2007) Publication: "Administrative Law and Procedure-Student Loan Discharges Under Chapter 13 Bankruptcy and Ripeness for Adjudication-Educational Credit Management Coloration v. Coleman(In re Coleman)",15 Suffolk J.Trial&App.Advoc.1,165(2010). NORTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY,Massachusetts Education Policy Fellowship Program,2004-2005 Ten month in-service leadership development program sponsored by the Institute for Educational Leadership. The program consisted of state level meetings and two national conferences focusing on educational policy and leadership development. SIMMONS COLLEGE,Boston,Massachusetts Master of Science,Education,Special Education,September 2002 Cumulative GPA:3.95 Master's Thesis: The Benefets of Peer Mentoring in a Residential Setting forAdolescent Girls with Learning Disabilities SAINT ANSELM COLLEGE,Manchester,New Hampshire Bachelor of Arts,cum laude,Psychology,May 1997 Cumulative GPA:3.291 LEGAL EXPERIENCE MASSACHUSETTS STATE HOUSE,JOINT COMMITTEE ON EDUCATION Boston,MA RAPPAPORT FELLOW IN LAW AND PUBLIC POLICY SUMMER 2009 Developed bill summaries for Education Committee members in preparation for upcoming hearings. Closely examined charter school funding issues,comparing Massachusetts'model with other states to aid in the creation of legislation that will meet the needs of all stakeholders. Presented policy briefing on chatter school financing to joint chairs of committee. U.S.DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION,Office for Civil Rights Boston,MA LEGAL INTERN SUMMER 2008 Researched and drafted legal memorandum on jurisdictional issues for Tide VI employment case;participated in meetings with complainants;drafted communications to complainants and recipients. Planned and implemented an intern summit on bullying and harassment for OCR staff and other legal interns in education and civil rights. PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE NEWBURYPORT PUBLIC SCHOOLS,Francis T.Bresnahan School Newbutyport,MA TEAM FACILITATION LEADER 2006-PRESENT Team Chairperson for all IEP Team meetings for students in grades PK 3. Interface with teachers,related service providers and parents on issues related to students'IEP needs. EDUCATIONAL CONSULTANT Haverhill,MA HILL VIEW MONTESSORI PUBLIC CHARTER SCHOOL 2008-2010 Provided legal and educational information to aid with the implementation of special education programs within a public charter school. Reviewed staffing needs to support the development of the special education budget,as well as identified professional development and technical assistance needs to aid with implementation of special education services. TRITON REGIONAL SCHOOL DISTRICT,Department of Pupil Services Newbury,MA OUT OF DISTRICT COORDINATOR 2005-2006 Coordinated and facilitated all IEP Team meetings for students placed in public or private day and/or residential schools. Reviewed district special education policies and procedures for compliance with state and federal regulations. Developed and coordinated extended school year services for all students placed in the district,including:tutoring,PK-6"grade programming,and transportation. DEPARTMENT OF ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION,Program Quality Assurance Services ACTING SUPERVISOR, SPECIAL PROJECTS LIAISON 2001-2005 Executed Program Quality Assurance program review activities according to written standards for the purpose of ascertaining compliance with applicable education laws,regulations and Department policy. Implemented the Department's Problem Resolution System to determine compliance with applicable laws and regulations. THE LANDMARK SCHOOL Prides Crossing,MA LANGUAGE ARTS TEACHER, HOUSEPARENT 1997-2001 OTHER ACTIVITIES HILL VIEW MONTESSORI PUBLIC CHARTER SCHOOL HAVERHIId,,MA TRUSTEE, BOARD OF TRUSTEES JULY2011-PRESENT Responsible for ensuring that the academic program of Hill View Montessori Charter School is successful, that the school's program and operation are faithful to the terms of its charter,and that the school is a viable organization REFERENCES Available upon request John F. Doherty, Ed.D. Mary C. DeLai Superintendent of Schools v- Assistant Superintendent --==_- for Finance and Administration 82 Oakland Road Reading,MA 01867 Craig Martin Phone:781-944-5800 Assistant Superintendent Fax:781-942-9149 for Learning and Teaching _ Reading Public Schools Instilling a joy of learning and inspiring the innovative leaders of tomorrow TO: Reading School Committee FROM: John F. Doherty, Ed.D. Superintendent of Schools DATE: March 28, 2014 TOPIC: Discussion Regarding the Formation of a School Building Committee As we move forward with the Early Childhood Center process I would like to discuss if the School Committee would like to form a School Building to oversee the project if approved by Town Meeting. I am including a draft of the Early Childhood Center School Building Committee for your approval. If you have any questions, please contact me. The Reading Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race,color,sex,gender identity,religion,national origin,sexual orientation, age or disability. Reading Public Schools Early Childhood Education Center Building Committee(ECECBC) Purpose The ECECBC is charged with carrying out all phases of early childhood center building project including the Design Phases, Construction Phases for renovations,additions and/or construction of the new Early Childhood Education Center. Powers and Duties of Committee • Oversee and supervise the design and construction of the Early Childhood Education Center, including the designer selection process for the solicitation,evaluation and recommendation of a project designer,schematic design, design development, production of construction documents, public construction bidding, contract award recommendation and construction administration in compliance with the General Laws.All solicitations for designer services and invitations for bids for construction shall be coordinated with the designated procurement officer for the project to assure compliance with the applicable provisions of the General Laws. The Superintendent of Schools shall award and execute all designer services contracts and construction contracts. • Review and report the financial requirements of all projects within its jurisdiction,or for which it may become responsible, and oversee the expenditure of funds in the course of execution of such projects. Membership 1. Superintendent of Schools 2. One School Committee member 3. School administrator responsible for procurement(MCPPO certified) 4. School administrator responsible for building maintenance 5. School principal 6. One(1)teacher Associated with Early Childhood Education 7. Three(3)community members with architecture,engineering and/or construction experience 8. One"at-large" community member 9. Town manager or designee 10. Local budget official or member of local finance committee Appointments • School committee member to be appointed by the Chair of the School Committee • School administrators, principal, and teacher to be appointed by the Superintendent • One community member appointed by the Board of Selectman • One community member appointed by the School Committee • One community member appointed by the Superintendent of Schools • At large community member appointed by the School Committee • Local budget official or member of local finance committee appointed by the Chair of the Finance Committee Length of Term: Three (3)years John F. Doherty Ed. D. Mary C. DeLai Superintendent of Schools = Assistant Superintendent for Finance and Administration 82 Oakland Road �f Reading,MA 01867 Craig Martin Phone:781-944-5800 Assistant Superintendent Fax:781-942-9149 _ for Learning and Teaching Reading Public Schools Instilling a joy of learning and inspiring the innovative leaders of tomorrow TO: Reading School Committee FROM: John F. Doherty, Ed.D. Superintendent of Schools DATE: March 28, 2014 TOPIC: Accept a Donation to RMHS Girls Hockey Please find attached, for your information, a copy of a memorandum from the Friends of Reading Rockets Hockey outlining a donation to the girls' hockey program. At our meeting on Monday evening, I will ask the School Committee to accept this donation. If you have any questions, please contact me. The Reading Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race,color,sex,gender identity,religion,national origin,sexual orientation, age or disability. re deg) lv , Friends of Reading Rockets Hockey,Inc. C/O Jon Vedder Jill133 Van Norden Road Reading,MA 01867 March 19,2014 Reading Public Schools 62 Oakland Street Reading, Ma 01867 Attn: Ms. Mary Delai Re: Donation Dear Ms. Delai, Enclosed please find a check for$700 to contribute to the girl's ice hockey team. This donation is made on behalf of the Friends of Reading Rockets Hockey, Inc. Best iarial Ste. en Lomanno i i • John F. Doherty,Ed. D. Mary C.DeLai Superintendent of Schools Assistant Superintendent -* =' for Finance and Administration 82 Oakland Road Reading,MA 01867 Craig Martin Phone:781-944-5800 Assistant Superintendent Fax:781-942-9149 - for Learning and Teaching Reading Public Schools Instilling a joy of learning and inspiring the innovative leaders of tomorrow TO: Reading School Committee FROM: John F. Doherty, Ed.D. Superintendent of Schools DATE: March 28, 2014 TOPIC: Accept a Donation from the Reading PSST At our meeting, I am asking the School Committee to accept a donation from the Reading PSST to be used to support the Playwriting Instructor position as part of the Reading Memorial High School Drama Program.. If you have any questions, please contact me. The Reading Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race,color,sex,gender identity,religion,national origin,sexual orientation, age or disability. Reading Parents Supporting Student Theatre P.O. Box 432 Reading, Ma. 01667 March 25, 2014 Mary DeLai Assistant Superintendent Reading Public Schools 82 Oakland Road Reading, Ma. 01867 Dear Ms. DeLai, Please accept the enclosed check in the amount of $1,300.00 for the purposes of funding a position, supporting the Reading High School Drama Program. The following position is being funded by PSST: Playwriting Instructor , $1,300.00 (Kate Crosby, RMHS English Teacher) If you need any information on the instructor, Kristin Killian of the Drama Department would be able to obtain it for you. Thank you for your attention to this request. Carl Mittnight PSST Treasurer John F. Doherty,Ed. D. Mary C. DeLai Superintendent of Schools ' Assistant Superintendent _ y for Finance and Administration 82 Oakland Road Reading,MA 01867 _ Craig Martin Phone:781-944-5800 " Assistant Superintendent Fax:781-942-9149 for Learning and Teaching Reading Public Schools Instilling a joy of learning and inspiring the innovative leaders of tomorrow TO: Reading School Committee FROM: John F. Doherty, Ed.D. Superintendent of Schools DATE: March 28, 2014 TOPIC: Accept a Donation from the Coolidge PTO At our meeting, I am asking the School Committee to accept a donation from the Coolidge Middle School PTO to be used to offset the cost the Michael Fowlin enrichment program for the middle and high school students. If you have any questions, please contact me. The Reading Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race,color,sex,gender identity,religion,national origin,sexual orientation, age or disability. John F.Doherty, Ed. D. Mary C. DeLai Superintendent of Schools = Assistant Superintendent ;3 G for Finance and Administration 82 Oakland Road Reading,MA 01867 Craig Martin Phone:781-944-5800 Assistant Superintendent Fax:781-942-9149 g Teaching for Learning and Teachin Reading Public Schools Instilling a joy of learning and inspiring the innovative leaders of tomorrow TO: Reading School Committee FROM: John F. Doherty, Ed.D. Superintendent of Schools DATE: March 28, 2014 TOPIC: Accept a Donation from the RMHS PTO At our meeting, I am asking the School Committee to accept a donation from the RMHS PTO to be used to offset the cost the Michael Fowlin enrichment program for the middle and high school students. If you have any questions, please contact me. The Reading Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race,color,sex,gender identity,religion,national origin,sexual orientation, age or disability. • o l v E `` ih' ,ir-T :f P- 9,JNCOR John F.Doherty,Ed.D. READING MEMORIAL HIGH SCHOOL Kevin Higginbottom Superintendent Principal 62 Oakland Road,Reading,Massachusetts 01867 Michael R.Scarpitto Tel:781-944-8200 Fax:781-942-5435 Laura Olsen Website:http://www.edline.net/pages/Reading_HS Thomas J.Zaya Assistant Principals TO: John Doherty,Superintendent of Schools FROM: Kevin J.Higginbottom,Principal i DATE: March 28,2014 RE: Gift for Michael Fowlin Enrichment Activity Please accept a donation in the amount of$2000.00 from Reading Memorial High School PTO. The donation is for the enrichment of the Michael Fowlin Activity. Thank You. I 1 RMHS PTO 62 Oakland Road,Reading,MA 01867 March 25, 2014 Kevin Higginbottom RMHS Principal 62 Oakland Road Reading, Ma 01867 Dear Kevin, Kevin, please accept the enclosed $2000 check from the RMHS PTO as donation for the Michael Fowlin enrichment activity. Please call me with any questions. Sincerely, 6k Paula J P RMHS PTO Treasurer John F. Doherty Ed.D. Mary C. DeLai Superintendent of Schools Assistant Superintendent for Finance and Administration 82 Oakland Road Reading,MA 01867 Craig Martin Phone: 781-944-5800 Assistant Superintendent Fax:781-942-9149 for Learning and Teaching Reading Public Schools Instilling a joy of learning and inspiring the innovative leaders of tomorrow TO: Reading School Committee FROM: John F. Doherty, Ed.D. Superintendent of Schools DATE: March 28, 2014 TOPIC: Accept a Donation from the Reading Education Foundation At our meeting, I am asking the School Committee to accept a donation from the Reading Education Foundation to be used to offset the cost the Michael Fowlin enrichment program for the middle and high school students. If you have any questions,please contact me. The Reading Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race,color,sex,gender identity,religion,national origin,sexual orientation, age or disability. £,' vf,> S .. l ,, Town of Reading 0y{ - v [DRAFT I Meeting Minutes : y.� Board - Committee - Commission - Council: School Committee Date: 2014-03-24 Time: 7:00 PM Building: School - Memorial High Location: Superintendent Conference Room Address: 82 Oakland Road Purpose: Open Session Session: General Session Attendees: Members - Present: Karen Janowski John Doherty, Superintendent Chris Caruso Craig Martin, Assistant Superintendent Lisa Gibbs Mary DeLai, Assistant Superintendent Jeanne Borawski Alison Elmer, Director of Student Services Hal Croft Chuck Robinson (arrived at 7:05 p.m.) Conner Traugot, Student Representative Andrea Nastri, Student Representative Members - Not Present: Others Present: Eric Sprung, Birch Meadow Principal Melissa Milner, Beth Slater & Carole Casavant, Birch Meadow Teachers Grade 5 students from Birch Meadow Dan Ensminger, Selectman John Halsey, Candidate for Board of Selectmen Kevin Sexton, Candidate for Board of Selectmen and Early Childhood Working Group Mark Dockser & Brian Heslin, Elementary Working Group Elaine Webb, Phil Vaccaro & Linda Snow Dockser, Candidates for School Committee Jim Cormier, Chief of Police Scott Dunlap, Ai-3 Mary Mahoney, KBA Al Sylvia, Reading Chronicle Joanne Senders, Reading Advocate Minutes Respectfully Submitted By: John F. Doherty, Ed.D. Superintendent Topics of Discussion: I. Call to Order Page I 1 Chair Croft called the School Committee to order at 7:03 p.m. He reviewed the agenda, announced the meeting was being recorded and welcomed guests. Mr. Robinson arrived at 7:05 p.m. II. Recommended Procedure A. New Business (Out of Order) Birch Meadow Principal Eric Sprung provided an overview of the grade 5 trip to Camp Bournedale this past fall. This trip was originally planned to ease the transition to middle school for Birch Meadow and Killam fifth graders. The trip proved to be a great teambuilding and educational experience. Mr. Sprung turned the meeting over to the Birch Meadow students who provided an overview of the trip. Birch Meadow students Ben Anderson and Heather Campbell shared their experience at Camp Bournedale. They participated in team building activities, slept in cabins, went on a lobster boat, dissected a shark and studied beach ecology. They both had a good time and felt the trip was worthwhile. Birch Meadow students Kiara Tangney, Gracyn Rafuse, Stephen Needham and Heather Campbell shared pictures of the activities the group participated in. Like their peers, they thoroughly enjoyed the experience. Team building demonstrations were expertly handled by Samantha Lyons, Joanna Coram, Mia Plansky, Keegan Lee, Brendan Wilcox and Emily Clarkson. They shared three trust building activities the groups did at the camp. The presentation ended with a short video and final thoughts by Aisling Fantasia, Mason Wiese, Sally Gresh, Olivia Rossetti and Tommy Weld. The video included pictures of the shark dissection, coastal ecology education, the lobster boat experience, sleeping in cabins and making new friends. Mr. Sprung told the group that the trip exceeded all expectations and is asking the School Committee to approve a trip next fall for all Reading fifth grade students. Mr. Caruso moved,seconded by Mrs. Gibbs, to approve the proposed fifth grade field trip to Camp Bournedale in the fall of 2014. Mr. Caruso asked the students if this was their first overnight experience and if they liked it. Many students said it was and it was a fun. There were many parent chaperones and those not on the trip were well informed about the trip. Mrs. Janowski asked how the team building activities have continued throughout the year. Page j 2 Mr. Sprung responded by saying the elementary principals continue to work with the middle school principals to ease the transition of the students to both middle schools. Mrs. Gibbs expressed how proud she was by the level of maturity exhibited by our students. Mr. Croft called for the vote on the motion. The motion carried 6-0. Mr. Croft called for a brief recess at 7:18 p.m. The meeting was called back to order at 7:22 p.m. B. Public Input(I) C. Reports (I) 1. Student Ms.Nastri reported that the sophomores were busy this week with the MCAS testing and the Sophomore Semiformal. The Senior Class held its annual Mr. RMHS fundraiser this week. It was a great show. Mr. Traugot reported that the RMHS Science Team finished in 10th place, their highest ever, at the state competition and the Robotics team won the district competition. The RMHS Band held its annual New Orleans Night and the Hockey team won the state championship. He said it was great to see the student support at the game. The senior class held its annual dodgeball tournament. It was a lot of fun. The NHS members participated in game night at the Senior Center. He also reported on Secretary of Education Arne Duncan's visit to Reading last week. 2. Liaison 3. Assistant Superintendent Mr. Martin followed up on the Secretary's visit indicating that the teachers felt their input was truly valued during the roundtable discussions both with Mr. Duncan and the teacher ambassador fellows. 4. Superintendent Dr. Doherty reported on the visit of the United States Department of Education Secretary Arne Duncan's visit to the district on Wednesday. Mr. Duncan commented on how Reading has a culture of collaboration between the staff and community. This collaboration is a key element in the success we have as a district. D. Continued Business (Out of Order) Page 13 Early Childhood Center Presentation Dr. Doherty provided an overview of the work done to date including the Locker Report, Woburn St. option and the vetting of options by the Early Childhood Working Group. The Locker Report provided data indicating that adding onto our existing schools was, in the most cases, not a feasible option. The Administration next looked at purchasing and renovating the property on Woburn St. to house the Early Childhood Center. Through community meetings and discussions with town officials it was determined that this site would not be suitable due to traffic and neighborhood concerns. The Early Childhood Working Group was formed to explore options for a location of an Early Childhood Center. During the process over 30 options were explored which were reduced to approximately 10 options that the group felt were feasible. The Working Group was very insightful during discussions. Once the number of options was reduced, the Architects were brought in to work with the group and to determine the feasibility of each proposed option. Dr. Doherty said the options presented by the Architects are conceptual drawings only. The next steps would include the cost to do a design study once the School Committee approves a design option and cost of the schematic designs. The Finance Committee will need to vote on the appropriation at their meeting on Wednesday night. Mr. Dunlap reviewed the two favored scenarios and the parking associated with the options. After the feedback from the last meeting,the architects reviewed the parking plans addressing concerns from both town and community officials. Mr. Dunlap said the site would need to have 121 parking spaces based on the Town of Reading Zoning By-Laws. The Town officials have asked not to include the spaces on Oakland Road in the revised parking design. Mr. Dunlap reviewed the new parking layout which includes the use of the Oakland Road parcel, extending the current North Lot and the area adjacent to the Superintendent's Office and RISE. The School Committee asked clarifying questions. Concerns regarding the extension of the North Lot and restraining wall were addressed. Mr. Dunlap indicated that the restraining wall had been rebuilt during the high school project and there are no issues with it. Mr. Robinson asked about the cost of the parking lots. He felt the cost was high. Mr. Dunlap indicated that the cost includes site work, fill and building of the lots. Mrs. Janowski wondered if the Working Group would have chosen this site if they knew the construction cost of the parking lots. Mr. Sexton shared that the Working Group chose this site because it was the best option because of the building needs. Mr. Dunlap added that this site was the most cost effective of all the options. Ms. DeLai also said that all sites considered had parking concerns. Mr. Heslin of the Working Group felt it is best to do this now. He was hoping the parcel would be a feasible option but it was not. Page 14 Mr. Mooney, RMHS staff member asked about the parking for staff. Dr. Doherty said it has yet to be determined and we are currently assuming the assignments will remain the same but cautioned that could change once the design stage moves forward. Mr. Robinson addressed Option 10 that included the relocation of the Central offices. He is not comfortable with this option and would like a more definitive answer to how the space will be used. Dr. Doherty said that the spaces could fill different needs including classrooms, project space, meeting areas and special education office space. Mrs. Gibbs asked the Superintendent if it would be beneficial to have all Central Office Administrators in the same space. Dr. Doherty said it would allow for collaboration but housing the Office of Learning & Teaching in the high school also has its advantages. Mr. Ensminger asked who would be overseeing the spending on the project. Mr. Caruso indicated that the School Committee has not had discussions on establishing a School Building Committee at this point. Mrs. Janowski asked Chief Cormier about traffic flow on the site. Chief Cormier said that his department receives calls regarding parking and traffic concerns from all our schools but the high school. Currently the setup works well. The traffic and parking is a major concern at this time and how it will impact the neighborhood. He also said that the School Department has been very receptive to the concerns being expressed. Mr. Traugot felt that increased traffic will present a safety issue in the area of the high school Dr. Doherty said these concerns will be researched during the design phase. PreK-K will have different start times from the high school. We currently have RISE parents dropping off their children on the campus. All aspects that were looked at in the Woburn St. study will be looked at again for the high school site option. Mary Mahoney, KBA, reviewed two options for the design phase. Option A would be design advancement to 100% schematic design to provide for building occupancy in the Spring 2017. The cost for this option would be $485,000. The disadvantage to this approach would be that commencement of design development after Town Meeting would result in a Summer 2015 bidding period (not ideal due to mid-year schedule) with construction start Fall 2015 and building occupancy for the Spring 2017. Option B would provide for design advancement to 100%design development to provide for building occupancy in the Fall 2016 at a cost of$985,000. By advancing the project documents to design development level with partial site construction documents, a more reliable and time sensitive cost estimate would be produced and the efficiency of the combined design efforts would advance to a level at which Project approval at Page 15 Town Meeting 2014 would result in a Spring 2015 bidding and construction start in the Summer 2015. Ms. Mahoney feels it is better to go out to bid earlier in the year because contractors like to plan for the year. Mr. Robinson said there should be fewer uncertainties with new construction but felt that the site development presents many unknowns. Ms. Mahoney agreed and there will be a need to do a full geotechnical/topographical survey. Mr. Dockser asked how many months it would take to develop the documents under Option A. He wondered if it would be in the best interest of the town not to wait until the Fall Town Meeting and hold a Special Town Meeting to accelerate the process. Ms. DeLai indicated that we are required to go through the procurement process for the OPM and Architect. Ms. Mahoney said this process could take 6—8 weeks after Town Meeting approves the appropriation. Mr. Halsey feels there should be transparency throughout the process and would like the public to have an opportunity to hear about the proposed project prior to Town Meeting. School Committee members reiterated that we have been discussing this space issue for two years and have been very transparent. Jen Hillery, parent,thanked the Superintendent on his quick response to her request for information on this subject. She appreciates the work being done to keep Reading at high educational standards as well as how the space concerns affect our children educationally. Mrs. Janowski asked what the impact would be if the project was delayed until the Fall Town Meeting. Ms. Mahoney said the whole process would be delayed six months and you would risk increases in costs. It would be best to start construction in June after the students get out for the year, which would allow for a plan to be developed and be in place by the time the students returned in the fall. Mrs. Gibbs said it is time to pull the trigger. She understands it is a difficult decision. Mrs. Borawski expressed her gratitude to the Working Group for the work they did vetting the options. She also feels the community should have an opportunity to ask questions over the next month. The Superintendent agreed and will schedule some public forums prior to Town Meeting. Mrs. Janowski was concerned that the Committee only received this information two weeks ago. Mrs. Gibbs disagreed and said this information was presented on February 3rd Page 16 Mr. Caruso reviewed the two options. Option 2 is PreK-K only and Option 10 is Pre-K-K and Central Office. Mr. Robinson stated he was not comfortable voting for Option 10 at this point. Mr. Caruso moved,seconded by Mrs. Janowski,to forward Option 2 for the design study for the Early Childhood Center. Mrs. Janowski could not support Option 10 without a more defined use of the Central Office space. Mr. Croft called for the vote on the motion. The motion carried 5-1. Mrs. Gibbs voting against. Mr. Caruso moved, seconded by Mrs.Janowski, to request that the April Town Meeting authorize an appropriation in the amount of$485,000 for a design study for the Early Childhood Center. Mr. Caruso asked if we opted for Option B would we be able to open in the Fall 2016. Ms. Mahoney stated that spending the additional money would provide for a more advanced design. Both options would provide answers to the geotechnical and topographical challenges of the site. Mrs. Janowski is hesitant to move forward prior to Town Meeting. Mr. Breslin said this is the time to move. Delaying the project is not an option; doing so we take the risk of escalating construction costs and it will effect Chapter 70 funding. Mr. Sexton shared that the public would have an opportunity to ask questions at Town Meeting. Mr. Robinson cautioned the group that we must be aware of cost flow considerations. Mr. Croft called for the vote on the motion. The motion failed 2-4. Mrs. Gibbs,Mr. Caruso,Mrs.Janowski and Mr. Croft voting against. Mr. Caruso moved, seconded by Mrs. Gibbs,to request that the April Town Meeting authorize an appropriation in the amount of$985,000 for a design study for the Early Childhood Center. The motion failed 3-3. Mrs. Janowski,Mrs. Borawski and Mr. Robinson voting against. Mr. Robinson reminded the Committee that that they will be requesting an additional $485,000 for the budget in addition to this request. Mrs. Janowski said we are asking a lot of the citizens and will not support either amount. Page 17 Mrs. Borawski agreed that we are stretching our request to Fincom. Mr. Croft made it clear that opting for Option B we would be further along with a clearer cost estimate for contractors to bid and the timetable would be more favorable. Mr. Caruso moved,seconded by Mrs. Gibbs to reconsider the original motion. The vote was 4-2. Mrs. Janowski and Mrs. Gibbs voting against. Mr. Caruso moved,seconded by Mrs. Gibbs,to request that the April Town Meeting authorize an appropriation in the amount of$485,000 for a design study for the Early Childhood Center. The motion carried 4-2. Mrs. Janowski and Mrs. Gibbs voting against. E. New Business FY201-2024 Capital Plan Ms. DeLai reviewed the Capital Plan requests. Mr. Caruso moved,seconded by Mrs. Gibbs, to amend FY2014-2024 Capital Plan to insert in FY2014 a new food service cargo van at an estimated cost of $32,000. Mrs. Janowski asked if it was possible to purchase a pre-owned vehicle. Ms. DeLai has not investigated it but does not feel it would be an appropriate choice due to Board of Health concerns. Mr. Croft called for the vote on the motion. The motion carried 6-0. Mr. Caruso moved, seconded by Mrs.Janowski,to request that Town Meeting authorize an appropriation in the amount of$32,000 to fund the purchase of this vehicle in the current fiscal year. The motion carried 6-0. Naming of Facilities Update Mr. Caruso shared information from the Naming Sub-Committee's meeting. There are three nominations this year. The group had discussions only and would like the School Committee to consider reviewing its policy. He mentioned that the Sub-Committee liked the idea of an Educator Hall of Fame. Dr. Doherty said the School Committee would need to provide direction to postpone or modify its policy. Mrs. Gibbs supports modifying the policy but this decision should not affect this year's nominees. Page 18 Mr. Caruso added that the applications varied in the amount of information provided and the Sub-Committee would like to have a template created to place all nominations on the same playing field. Mrs. Gibbs read a clarifying statement regarding the Fredrick Wales nomination. Approval of Field Trips Coolidge Science Team Mrs. Caruso moved, seconded by Mrs. Gibbs,to approve the Coolidge Science Team trip to the National Competition in Florida May 14— 18,2014. The motion carried 6-0. Mr. Caruso congratulated the Coolidge Science team on this accomplishment. III. Routine Matters a. Bills and Payroll (A) The following warrants were circulated and signed. Warrant S1438 3.13.14 $145,087.85 Warrant S1439 3.20.14 $190,133.53 Warrant P1418 2.10.14 $1,370,852.40 Warrant P1419 2.24.14 $1,386,542.05 Warrant P1419M 2.24.14 $236.00 b. Approval of Minutes Mr. Caruso moved, seconded by Mrs. Janowski,to approve the open session minutes,as amended,dated March 10,2014. The motion carried 6-0. Mr. Caruso moved,seconded by Mr. Robinson,to approve the open session minutes, as amended,dated March 20,2014. The motion carried 6-0. c. Bids and Donations Accept Donations Enrichment Mr. Caruso moved,seconded by Mrs.Janowski,to accept a donation in the amount of$2,000 from the Parker PTO to offset the cost of an enrichment program for the middle and high school students. The motion carried 6-0. RMHS Library Page 19 Mr. Caruso moved,seconded by Mr. Robinson,to accept a donation in the amount of$1,000 from the RMHS PTO to be used for the Library needs at RMHS. The motion carried 6-0. Calendar IV.Information Mrs. Janowski asked to include the amount of money in donations the district has received from parent and outside groups in the budget presentation to the Finance Committee. V. Future Business VI.Adjournment Mr. Croft announced that the executive session is necessary to protect the bargaining position of the body. Mr. Caruso moved, seconded by Mr. Robinson,to go into Executive Session to conduct strategy with respect to collective bargaining and not to return to open session. The roll call vote was 6-0. Mr. Caruso,Mr. Croft,Mr. Robinson,Mrs. Janowski,Mrs. Gibbs and Mrs. Borawski. The meeting adjourned at 9:56 p.m. NOTE: The minutes reflect the order as stated in the posted meeting agenda not the order they occurred during the meeting. Page 110 2013-2014 School Committee Meeting Date School Presenting @ Meeting Office Hours I March 31st School Committee Parker April 1st Local &Senate Election April 7th School Committee Croft& Borawski April 28th Town Meeting April 29th School Committee Killam May 1st Town Meeting May 5th Town Meeting May 6th School Committee RISE School Choice May 8th Town Meeting May 19th School Committee Janowski &Caruso June 2nd School Committee Croft& Robinson June 8th RMHS Graduation June 14th Friends and Family Day June 16th School Committee 3.28.14 All meetings are in the Superintendent's Conference Room at 7:00 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Dates and locations subject to change. (Bold indicates new or changed date or location.