HomeMy WebLinkAbout2014-05-19 School Committee Packet School Committee Meeting
May 19, 2014
Superintendent's Conference
Room
Office Hours
6:30 P•M•
Open Session 7:00 P•M•
•
Town of Reading
Meeting Posting with Agenda
Board - Committee - Commission - Council:
School Committee
Date: 2014-05-19 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.
PUBLIC HEARING—SCHOOL CHOICE 7:00 p.m.
Office Hours 6:30 p.m. Snow Dockser&Caruso
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. FY14 Budget Update(I)
2. Elementary Enrollment Update(I)
3. Early Childhood Center Update& Discussion (I)
D. New Business
1. Robotics Presentation
2. Appointment to the Collaboratives(A)
3. Superintendent's Goals(A)
4. Director of Finance&Operation Search-Qualities
5. Approval of School Nutrition Director Three Year Inter-Municipal Agreement(A)
E. Routine Matters
1. Bills and Payroll (A)
2. Minutes(A)
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
Meeting Posting with Agenda
April 23, 2014
April 29, 2014
May 6,2014
3. Bids and Donations(A)
Accept a Donation from The Friends of Reading Baseball
Accept a Donation from the Coolidge School Science Olympiad Support
Group
Accept a Donation from PSST
4. Calendar(I)
F. Information
G. Executive Session
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 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: May 15, 2014
TOPIC: School Choice
Please find attached the notice of the Public Hearing and School Committee Policy on School Choice in
reference to our obligation to make a decision by June 15t on whether or not Reading will participate in
School Choice. It will be my recommendation that Reading not participate in School Choice because of
district enrollment reasons.
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.
File: JFBB
SCHOOL CHOICE
It is the policy of this School District to admit non-resident students under the terms and
conditions of the Interdistrict School Choice Law(M.G.L. 76:12) and under the following local
conditions:
1. That by May 1 of every school year,the administration will determine the number
of spaces in each school available to choice students.
2. That by June 1 of every school year, if consideration is being given to withdraw
from the provisions of the choice law, a public meeting will be held to review this
decision.
3. That resident students be given priority placement in any classes or programs
within the District.
4. That the selection of non-resident students for admission be in the form of a
random drawing when the number of requests exceeds the number of available
spaces. There will be two drawings for this purpose. The first will take place
during the last week of the current school year but no later than July 1st. The
second will be conducted during the week immediately preceding the opening of
the next school year and will be based on the possibility of unexpected additional
openings.
5. Any student who is accepted for admission under the provisions of this policy is
entitled to remain in the District until graduation from high school except if there
is a lack of funding of the program.
6. The School Committee affirms its position that it shall not discriminate in the
admission of any child on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex,
gender identity, age, sexual orientation, ancestry, athletic performance, physical
handicap, special need, academic performance or proficiency in the English
language.
Adopted by the Reading School Committee on March 26,2007
Revised and Adopted by the Reading School Committee on April 8,2013
LEGAL REFS.: M.G.L. 71:6; 71:6A; 76:6;76:12; 76:12B
1
LEGAL NOTICE
READING SCHOOL COMMITTEE
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NOTICE OF
PUBLIC HEARING
Notice is hereby given that the Reading School Committee will hold a Public
Hearing on School Choice on Monday,May 19, 2014 at 7:00 p.m.,in the
Superintendent's Conference Room at 82 Oakland Road,Reading,Massachusetts 01867.
Interested citizens are encouraged to attend and participate in the hearing that will
address School Choice in the Reading Public Schools.
John F.Doherty,Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools
John F. Doherty,Ed. D. Mary C. DeLai
Superintendent of Schools Assistant Superintendent
411 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: May 15, 2014
TOPIC: RMHS Robotics Team Demonstration
At our meeting on Monday evening, Mr. Chuck Strout and several members of the RMHS Robotics
Team will present and demonstrate their projects. We will briefly recess from open session to move to
the Main Street area of the high school for their demonstration.
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, r , °v Mary C.DeLai
Superintendent of Schools Assistant Superintendent
P
for Finance and Administration
82 Oakland Road
Reading,MA 01887 ."-'`'f Craig artin
�/
Phone:781-944-5800 , `; 1 S } Assistant Superintendent
Pa=781-942-9149 �_ for Learning and Teaching
Reading Public Schools
Instilling a joy of learning and inspiring the innovative leaders of tomorrow
MEMORANDUM
TO: Reading School Committee
FROM: Mary C. DeLai
DATE: May 3,2014
RE: FY2014 Budget Status Update
At the Reading School Committee meeting on May 6th,we will provide the Committee with an
update on the status of the Fiscal Year 2014 budget. Attached,please find a report showing the
budget status as of March 31,2014.
The attached report shows that we currently have an unencumbered balance of$553,120 in the
School Committee budget,representing 1.4%of the total appropriation. The unencumbered balance
has decreased by$18,302 since the second quarter report of January 31,2014. The unencumbered
balance in the Town Building Maintenance budget is$3,246 or 0.4%of the total appropriation.
This is a reduction of$7,838 from the second quarter report of January 31, 2014.
The most significant unencumbered balance is in the special education cost center and,more
specifically,the districtwide special education budget which stands currently at$483,113. This
balance is partially attributable to the district's pre-payment of approximately$250,000 in special
education tuitions in fiscal year 2013 which is allowable under M.G.L Chapter 71, §71D. In
addition,some placement decisions have resulted in savings to the district while some placements
have not yet been settled and are not expected to be settled in the current fiscal year.
Given the balance remaining, one option that the School Committee may consider is to pursue the
creation of a Special Education Stabilization Fund which is permissible under M.G.L. Chapter 40.
Two communities have done so in recent years including Lexington and Winchester. These funds
are created to provide a vehicle for setting aside reserves to help cover unexpected out-of-district
special education expenses that exceed budget.A related goal is to create greater transparency
around the out-of-district special education budget. Under the current statute,the creation of such a
fund would require a vote of the town meeting. The surplus that currently exists could be returned
to free cash and then appropriated at a future town meeting for transfer into the newly created
stabilization fund. Once the fund is established,the School Department would ask Town Meeting
for any appropriation to offset unanticipated special education tuition or transportation expense
which would require a 2/3 vote of town meeting. I have attached to this report an article that
The Reading Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race,color,sex,gender identity,religion,national origin,sexual orientation,age or dsebtkty,
1 ;
appeared in 2012 in the Winchester Daily Times Chronicle that provides a bit more detail on
Winchester's efforts.
Currently,there is also legislation currently pending in the Massachusetts state legislature(HB
1862),that would provide an alternative method for the creation of special education stabilization
funds by a majority vote of the School Committee and a majority vote of the legislative body. I
have attached to this report a copy of this legislation.
If the School Committee were interested in potentially pursuing this option,Town Counsel would
be useful in advising the Committee and the Superintendent regarding the necessary steps in the
process.
We will be prepared to discuss this report in greater detail at Tuesday's meeting and to answer any
additional questions you may have. Please feel free to contact me if you have specific questions
you would like addressed or need additional information.
The Reeding Fteb&Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race,color,sex,gender identity,refg oa,nationi origin,sexual orientation,age or dJSabe i4'.
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Special Ed.Stabilization Fund proposed-Daily Times Chronicle:Winchester Page
Special Ed. Stabilization Fund proposed
Ellen Knight I Posted: Thursday,March 15,2012 12:00 pm
WINCHESTER—Three Town Meeting warrant articles were discussed at the last School
Committee meeting,one for the spring Town Meeting relative to special education funding and
two regarding new revolving funds for field-use fees,probably to go to Town Meeting in the fall.
The School Committee voted unanimously to submit an article creating a Special Education
Stabilization Fund to the Board of Selectmen for inclusion on the warrant.
According to the draft description provided by Superintendent William McAldui%the
stabilization fund is to be established for the purpose of supporting unanticipated and unbudgeted
special education costs that may arise from year to year.
"Special Education funding is difficult to project given the changing nature of the need for
mandated special education service4, l especially for out-of-district tuition expenses related to
unforeseen placement of both in-district students and students who may move into town
subsequent to the annual budget being adopted."
Two motions are contemplated,one to create the fund and another to appropriate an amount to be
determined from a source to be determined(probably the FY12 education budget)to the new
stabilization fund.
McAlduff said that two other communities have attempted to address special education funding.
Burlington moved the costs of special education and transportation to the municipal side,which
McAlduff said would not serve Winchester's need.
Lexington reportedly established a special education stabilization fund.McAlduff said they prefer
this model.After the stabilization fund is established,the School Department can ask Town
Meeting twice a year for appropriations(made by a 2/3 vote).
School Committee member Michael Schindelman commented that they had talked about
improving special education budgeting for quite a few years and that he was highly supportive of
the article.He made the motion to submit the article for the warrant,which his colleagues
supported with little comment.
•
Bill Text-H1862 Page 1 of 2
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188TH Home Glossary iAQs
THE 100 GENERAL.COURT OF (Sue search
THE COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS
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Massachusetts Laws Bills State Budget People Committees Educate&Engage Events MyLeglelature •
Hark to S,ii DeIaiis
Print Document Text Download PDF
HOUSE DOCKET,ND.690 FILED ON:111412013
HOUSE No. 1862
trite Commonwealth of 1tlnssilcIJlI rtts
PRESENTED BY: •
Jason Lewis and Clean H. Turner
To the Honorable Sande and Hume ofItepmsenraaras orate('umarunwrolih ofAla:MK:1114 MA'in(ienern!
Cu1111 arsemhted: .
The uoilwsigned legislators nndior citizens roapcctfldly txlition for the uioption of Ibe accompanying bill:
An Act supporting municipal fiscal stability through a special education stabilization fund.
PETITION OF:
NAME: I DISTRICT/ADDRESS:
Jason Lewis
Clear H.Turner i 1st Barnstable
Peter V.Kocol (1st Hampshire
Garrett J.Bradley I 3rd Plymouth
Martha M li'a!z i Silt Suffolk
Michael O.Moore !Second Worcester •
James J.Dwyer. 1 30th Middlesex •
Daniel A.Self I Cape and islands
Cory Atkins 1 14,1,,Middlesex •
William Smiler PignateBi -111,Berkshire
Kay Khan 1 11th Aiddlesex
Benjamin B,Down±E Berkshire,Hanr�.sliire.Franklin and Hampden_
Denise Provost �27111 Middlesex
Jenntkr E.Benson — '•37th Middlesex
Carolyn C.Dykema Silt Middlesex
Paul A.Schmid,Ill Sib Bristol
HOUSE DOCKET,NO.680 FILED ON:1/14/2013
HOUSE No. 1862
By Messrs.Lewis of Winchester and Turner of Dennis.a petition(accompanied by bill,House,
No. 1862)of Jason M.Lewis,aeon H.Turner and others for legislation to enhance municipal
fiscal stability through a special education stabilization fund. Municipalities and Regional
Government.
(SIMILAR MATTER FILED IN PREVIOUS SESSION
• SEE HOUSE.NO.4017 OF 2011-20121
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https://malegislature.gov/Bills/BillHtml/122119?generalCourtId=11 5/4/2014
Bill Text-H1862 Page 2 of 2
11tt Coaunontfltattb at ,",1 assatbiisrtts
In the Year TwoTheinend Thirteen
An Act supporting municipal fiscal stability through a special education stabilization fund.
1k lrenacted by the Senate and Hoare ofRepreiemaarer to General Court aaentbkj.and ley the aabornv r/the same,
or foflmrs:
Chapter 40 oldie General Laws,as appearing in the 2008 Official Edition,is hereby amended by
adding after section t 3C the following section:
Section 13D.Any school district which accepts the provisions of this section by majority vote of the
school committee and acceptance by a majority vote of the legislative body or,in the case of a regional
school district acceptance by majority vote of the legislative bodies in a majority of the member
communities of the district may establish,and appropriate or transfer money to a reserve find to be utilized
in the upcoming fist year or years.to pay,without further appropriation,for unanticipated and/or
unbudgeted costs of special education out of school district tuition and/or transportation.The balance in
such separate stabilization fund shall not exceed 2%of the annual net school spending of the school district.
The district treasurer may invest the monies in the manner authorized by Section 54 of Chapter 44,
and any interest earned thereon shell be credited to and become part of the fund. In the case of Regional
School Districts,funds may be added to the special education stabilization Rind only be appropriation in the
annual budget voted at annual town meetings of member towns.
The information contained in this websit*is for general information purposes only.The General Court provides this Information es
public service and while we endeavor to keep the data accurate and current to the best of our ability,we make no representations or
warranties of any kind,express or Implied,about the completeness,accuracy,rellabtity,suitability or availability with respect to the
website or the information contained on the website for any purpose.My reliance you place on such hlrormation is therefore strictly at
your own risk.
Shoat tide Ste lip
MAM•cor IMULMEIIMIGN I iBa4tar�at
Copyright m 2014 The General Coat,All Rights Reserved
•
https:l/malegislature.govBillsBillHtm1/122119?generalCourtic 11 5/4/2014
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: May 15, 2014
TOPIC: Elementary Enrollment Update
At our meeting on Monday evening I will update the School Committee on the 2014-15 elementary
enrollment numbers. As you can see from the attached chart there are concerns over class size and space
for next year,particularly at the Kindergarten level. We have employed creative solutions to
accommodate the growing number of families interested in full day kindergarten including a traditional
and integrated model and holding only morning sessions. There are also pockets of larger class sizes in
grades 1 -5 as well that we will continue to watch.
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.
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John F. Doherty,Ed.D. Maly 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: May 15, 2014
TOPIC: Early Childhood Education Center Update &Discussion
At our meeting on Monday evening, I will provide an update on the Early Childhood Education Center
and how we will proceed as a result of Town Meeting discussions and vote to indefinitely table this
article. As you know, we will be moving forward with a traffic study for the Oakland Road area and a
geotechnical survey of the Oakland Road site across from the high school. These will happen over the
next few months and these two studies will provide much needed information to outline the next steps in
the process.
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 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: May 15, 2014
TOPIC: Reappointment to Collaboratives
The new legislation mandates that Collaborative Board members be appointed annually by their
respective School Committees. Appointments for 2014-2015 should be made prior to July 1, 2014. At
our meeting on Monday evening, I will ask the board to appoint me as the representative to both SEEM
and NEC.
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.
for Finan Mary C.DeLai
Superintendent of Schools Assistant d Superintendent
ation
an
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: May 15, 2014
TOPIC: Superintendent's Goals
As you recall,the School Committee voted to approve my goals at our retreat in November.
At our meeting on Monday evening, I would like provide you with an update on my goals as
the School Committee prepares to complete the Superintendent's Summative Evaluation for
the 2013-14 school year. I am including a copy of the Superintendent's Goals and a copy of
the Summative Template for your reference.
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
Annual Educator Plan
Superintendent of Schools-Update
John Doherty
5/19/2014
As defined in the new educator evaluation regulations, 603 CMR 35.00,which were adopted in June, 2011,all educators
are required to develop a minimum of two goals,one goal for the improvement of student learning and one goal for the
improvement of professional practice. In addition,the Superintendent of Schools should develop two to four district
improvement goals. The combination of the Superintendent's goals and the district improvement goals comprise the
Superintendent's Annual Educator Plan.
Annual Five-Step Cycle of Continuous Improvement (Source DESE)
The Educator Plan for Superintendents is organized around the five-step cycle required for all educators, a centerpiece
of the new regulations designed to have all educators play a more active, engaged role in their professional growth and
development.
Under the regulations, evaluation is an annual process beginning with self-
assessment and concluding with summative evaluation and rating of the
educator's impact on student learning. It also is a continuous improvement
process in which evidence from the summative evaluation and rating of
impact on learning become important sources of information for the
superintendent's self-assessment and the district's subsequent goal
setting. ` 1
For superintendent evaluation in the Model System, the annual cycle
includes the following:
• Cycle Step 1: Superintendent's Self-Assessment. The superintendent conducts a self-assessment using
the performance Standards and rubric, data about student learning, past progress on district goals (when
available), the prior year's evaluation and rating, and other relevant evidence. Based on that assessment, the
superintendent identifies at least two goals to propose to the school committee: one related to improving his
or her own professional practice and one related to improving student learning.
• Cycle Step 2: Analysis, Goal Setting, and Plan Development. During a public meeting, the school
committee and superintendent review the proposed goals, key strategies, and benchmarks of progress'. In
consultation with the superintendent and with the objective of achieving mutual agreement, the committee
revises, as needed, and adopts at least one professional practice and one student learning goal.
In addition, the superintendent and school committee develop two to four district improvement goals with key
strategies and benchmarks. Once adopted, the professional practice, student learning, and district
improvement goals—with their key strategies and benchmarks of progress—become the Superintendent's
Annual Plan. The plan serves as a basis for assessing the superintendent's performance.2
• Cycle Step 3: Superintendent Plan Implementation and Collection of Evidence. The superintendent
implements the Superintendent's Plan, with assistance from the committee, as appropriate; school committee
members and the superintendent individually collect evidence of progress on goals and performance against
the Standards.
• Cycle Step 4: Mid-Cycle Goals Review. At a mid-cycle public meeting (or series of meetings), the
superintendent reports on progress being made on the goals in the Superintendent's Annual Plan. The school
committee reviews the report, offers feedback, and discusses progress and possible mid-cycle adjustments
with the superintendent.
• Cycle Step 5: End-of-Cycle and Summative Evaluation Reports. The superintendent prepares an End-of-
Cycle Report on progress toward each goal and performance against the Standards. In a public meeting, the
school committee completes a performance review and End-of-Cycle Summative Evaluation Report
assessing attainment of the goals and the superintendent's performance against the Standards (see
Appendix E for step-by-step details of conducting the End-of-Cycle Summative Review).
1 Pursuant to the revised Open Meeting Law(c. 28, s. 18 2009), this component of the Superintendent evaluation and others, where
noted, must take place in a public meeting. Further detail is provided in Appendix J of this Guide.
2 The Superintendent's Annual Plan is not the same as the District Improvement Plan described in MGL CMR 69 11. One or more of the
district improvement goals that appear in the superintendent's plan also may appear in the district plan, but the superintendent's plan is
not intended to include every goal the school committee has identified in its district plan. Instead,the superintendent's plan identifies the
three to six goals that will carry the most weight in assessing the superintendent's performance in that year. That said, school
committees and superintendents are encouraged to coordinate these two planning processes.
I. Step 1-Self Assessment of Strengths and Areas to Strengthen
A. Professional Strengths as described in Performance Rubric
1. Leading the Development of Educator Evaluator System,including District Determined
Measures (1-C-1 and 1-D1)
2. Establishes systems,plans,procedures,and routines that empower administrators,students and staff
to implement orderly and efficient student entry,dismissal,meals,class transitions,assemblies,and
recess.(II-A-1)
3. Create and maintain a district environment in which custodial and other staff take personal
responsibility for keeping schools clean,attractive,welcoming,and safe (II-A-2)
4. Recruitment and Hiring Strategies to identify effective administrators and educators (II-B-1)
5. Providing time for collaboration for administrative team (II-C-2)
6. Ethical Behavior (II-D-2)
7. Leads the administrator team to develop a district budget that aligns with the district's vision,mission,
and goals with supporting rationale;uses budget limitations to create new opportunities for
improvement,when possible;allocates and manages expenditures consistent with district/school-level
goals;and seeks alternate funding sources as needed.(II-E-1)
7. Commitment to high standards for teaching and learning (IV-A-1)
8. Provides opportunities for continuous learning for staff(IV-D-1)
9. Continuous learning of administrator (IV-D-2)
B. District Areas of Strength as defined by data sources (i.e. MCAS,Te11MASS)
1. Two schools,RMHS and Barrows,are at the highest level, Level 1, in the state accountability
system ratings. The rest of the schools are at Level 2.
2.The student growth percentile for the district in ELA is 53 and in mathematics is 47.
3. The district is consistently higher than the state in the percent of students in the proficient or
advanced categories on the MCAS for all grade levels and subjects.
4. The per pupil is $2500 below the state average which indicates that the budget is well managed
and the resources are allocated effectively and efficiently.
5. According to the Tell Mass teacher survey data,strengths include having sufficient instructional
resources, clean and well maintained schools that support teaching and learning, community
support,teacher leadership,professional expectations,teacher evaluation,faculty commitment,
and curriculum.
C. Professional Areas to Strengthen as described in Performance Rubric
1. Leading the effective implementation of the common core state standards and assessment
development (I-A-1, I-A-2)
2. Working with principals to improve their knowledge instructional practices and addressing the
diverse learning needs of students (I-B-land I-B-3)
3. Providing regular meaningful observations and feedback to administrators (I-D-2)
4. Use of data to improve student and/or educator learning (I-E-3)
5. Strengthening family engagement and involvement (III-A-1)
6. Strengthening student support for struggling students,particularly students in the high needs
subgroup (ELL,students with disabilities,high poverty, or disadvantaged) (III-B-1)
7. Setting clear expectations for and provides support to administrators to communicate regularly with
families using two-way communication channels,including careful and prompt response to
communications from families. Supporting administrators to maximize the number of face-to-face
family/teacher interactions. (III-C-1)
D. Areas to Strengthen According to the Data
1. Six of the eight schools have an accountability level of Level 2 which means that not all
subgroups are meeting their target.
2. The high needs,low income,students with disabilities,and African American/Black subgroups
are not meeting their target goal.
3. Grade 7,8, and 10 Mathematics and Grade 10 literacy have an SGP below the 50th percentile.
4. The Tell MASS data shows that the district needs to strengthen providing time for teachers to
collaborate and plan,differentiate professional development to match the needs of each
educator, enforcement of rules for student conduct, and effective process for decision making.
5. Currently 68% of our kindergarten students are in a tuition-based full day kindergarten
program,an increase of 18% over the last three years. If this upward trend continues,we will
not have the space necessary to offer full day kindergarten to all families who want the
program.
6. The per pupil expenditure is $2500 below the state average which indicates that Reading does
an excellent job with managing budget resources,critical areas are not getting addressed to
continue to move the school district forward.
II. Step 2: Analysis, Goal Setting, and Superintendent Plan Development
All of the goals presented in this educator plan have a focus on strengthening student learning and
achievement through a variety of means. The figure below describes the main areas that the district will focus
on to achieve this focus.
Visual Interpretation of Goals
Reading Public Schools
Instilling a Joy of Learning and Inspiring the Innovative Leaders of Tomorrow
Implementation of
Massachusetts
Curriculum
Frameworks and
college and career
ready skills
Identify Implementation of
additional Increased student
resources or learning through Educator Evaluation
reallocate improved academic, System which
resources to behavioral,and includes the
social/emotional best development of
achieve overall practices and District Determined
goal of increased additional resources and local measures
student learnin:
Implementation
of Massachusetts
Tiered System of
Support
Educator Plan Goals
This educator plan consists of four goals: a student learning goal, a professional practice goal and two district
improvement plan goals. The student learning goal and the professional practice goal are also district
improvement plan goals. Each goal is aligned to at least one of the four district strategic objectives listed
below:
1. Learning and Teaching-Deepen and refine our focus on the instructional core to meet the academic,
social, and emotional needs of each child.
2. Performance Management-Build a system that measures school performance and differentiates support
based on need and growth.
3. Investment and Development-Compete for,support, recruit, and retain, top talent while creating
leadership opportunities and building capacity within our staff.
4. Resource Allocation-Improve the alignment of human and financial resources to achieve strategic
objectives.
Some of the goals listed below are in the second year of implementation. In those goals, some of the key
action steps and benchmarks were implemented prior to the 201344 school year.
Student Learning Goal
District Strategic Objectives Addressed:
Learning and Teaching, Performance Management, Investment and Development
Over the next two years, the Reading Public Schools will support Central Office administrators and
building principals so that they are able to work with teachers to improve curriculum alignment,
instructional strategies, student support and assessment methods in Literacy, Mathematics, and College
and Career Readiness Skills. The overall outcome will be that all students will demonstrate an increased
growth in their understanding of math and literacy Massachusetts Curriculum Framework standards, as
measured by the state Student Growth Percentiles, the state accountability system and by locally
determined measures.
Key Action Steps Timeline/Benchmarks
1. Become knowledgeable in the Common Core 1. Beginning in Summer,2012 and ongoing through
State Standards and the PARRC Assessments. workshops, updates,and articles
2. Work with principals and Central Office 2. Action Plan developed communicated to staff by
administrators to strategize how Common November,2012
Core, Educator Evaluation System,and
Assessments will be implemented as an
integrated system
3. Develop a structure for the development of 3. November,2012
District Determined Measures
4. Work with Assistant Superintendent for 4. Plan will be developed and implemented by the
Learning and Teaching to develop an Action Assistant Superintendent during the 2013-14
Plan for the implementation of the Common school year and include the following components:
Core State Standards. • K-8 Math Common Core Implemented
during the 2013-14 and 201415 school
years.
• 9-12 Math Common Core implemented
during the 2013-14 and 2014-15 school
years.
• K-12 Literacy Common Core implemented
during the 2013-14 and 2014-15 school
years.
5. Implement Structure for District Determined 5. Beginning in June,2013,groups of teachers and
Measures that are aligned with Educator administrators will meet by grade level to identify
Evaluation System and Common Core State and/or develop District Determined Measures.
Standards These measures will be piloted and revised during
the 2013-14 school year.
6. Work with Building Principals and Central 6 Additional professional development day added in
Office Administrators to identify ways to October, 2013. Long term solutions with the
increase collaborative planning time for planning of the FY14 and FY15 budget.
Elementary and High School Staff
7. Work with Assistant Superintendent and 7. Identify calendar of professional development
Building Principals to develop differentiated opportunities and Inservice Days by November,
professional development opportunities with 2012. Feedback surveys will be administered after
staff and provide opportunities for feedback each workshop or inservice.
after each workshop or inservice.
8. Work with Behavioral Health Coordinator, 8. During the 2012-13 school year, each school will
Assistant Superintendent of Learning and begin to implement phases of the system based on
Teaching, Director of Student Services,and where their entry point is in the system. During
Building Principals to successfully implement the 2013-14 school year, schools will continue to
the Massachusetts Tiered System of Support phase in the Massachusetts Tiered System of
for all schools. Support.
Update: During this school year,we have been
using Wedeko services to work with each school to
move forward in the implementation of MTSS. By
the end of the summer, all schools will have
leadership teams in place,a regular meeting time
for those teams to meet, and a behavior matrix.
We will continue working with Wedeko during the
first half of the 2014-15 school year.
9. Work with Assistant Superintendent, Director 9. During 2013-14 School Year,each school will
of Student Services, Behavioral Health implement a different phase of Baseline Edge with
Coordinator,and Building Principals to all schools fully implementing Baseline Edge for the
implement Student Intervention Module for start of the 2014-15 school year.
Baseline Edge.
Update: During this school year,all schools are
using the teacher evaluation component of
Baseline Edge. Schools are beginning to implement
different components of the student data
component of the tool.
10. Review student data on district and local 10. By the end of the 2013-14 school year,the district
assessments. student growth percentile as measured by the
MCAS for literacy and mathematics will increase.
By the end of the 2014-15 school year,the student
growth percentile will continue to increase and the
gap between the high needs sub-group and the
overall district will continue to narrow. Other
benchmarks will be developed for additional
district and local assessments.
Update: We will be receiving our MCAS data in
September,2014.
11. Work with teachers,administrators and 11. By September,2013,the district will have
Central Office Administrators to identify identified District Determined Measures for every
and/or develop District Determined educator. In October,2012,the High School will
Measures. implement the College Work Readiness
Assessment,which is a tool that measures digital
literacy. This assessment will be administered to
all Freshmen in October,2012 and 2013,and then
to Juniors in the Spring,2015.
Update: We are one of the few districts in
Massachusetts that has the vast majority of
educators piloting district determined measures.
During the summer,we will assess this work and
begin implementation for the 2014-15 school year.
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13. Work with teachers and administrators to 13. By January,2012,the district will pilot the Bring
implement the increased use of mobile Your Own Device initiative in grades 7-12. In
learning devices. September,2013,the pilot will be expanded to all
students in grades 7-12. In addition,all schools will
be implementing the use of iPads both in special
education programs and in classrooms during the
2012-13 school year. By the end of the 2013-14
school year,over 50%of all students in Grades 7/8
and 90%of all students in Grades 9-12 will be
registered for BYOD.
Update: We are close to reaching the above goals
and will continue to provide a balance of school
owned mobile devices and BYOD options to get as
close to a 1 to 1 environment as possible. In
addition,we are in the process of adding an Edline
app which can be used by both students and
parents to access Edline more effectively.
14. Pilot District Determined Measures and make 14. 2013-14 School Year
revisions,if necessary.
Update: We are one of the few districts in
Massachusetts that has the vast majority of
educators piloting district determined measures.
During the summer,we will assess this work and
begin implementation for the 2014-15 school year.
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16. Implement Year 2 of District Determined 16. 2015-16 School Year
Measures
17. Identify additional revenue sources to assist 17. • Early Adopter grant secured in August,
in the funding of the implementation process. 2012 to assist in the funding of district
determined measures.
• Race to the Top funding secured in August,
2012 to assist in professional development
focused on the development of model
curriculum units and educator evaluation
system.
• Identify other sources on an ongoing basis
using grant writer and/or Assistant
Superintendent for Learning and Teaching,
Director of Student Services and Assistant
Superintendent for Finance and
Administration.
Update: We have been working with the SEEM
Collaborative grant writer to identify projects that
would align with what we are doing in Reading.
One example is to develop a regional training
program for SEI endorsement for all classroom
teachers.
18. Provide ongoing proactive communication to 18. • Provide regular updates through social
parents and community about different media,Edline, Blackboard Connect,
initiatives. community meetings,and School
Committee meetings.
Update: We have increased the use of all of our
communication tools including Edline,Connect Ed,
RPS Blog,Twitter,and Facebook to explain the
different initiatives that are going on in this
community.
Professional Practice Goal
District Strategic Objectives Addressed:
Learning and Teaching, Investment and Development
Over the next two years, I will be working with building principals and central office administrators to increase their
level of understanding in the use of the educator evaluation system as a process for student and educator growth
as measured by staff and administrator surveys, my visibility in the schools,and the quality of verbal and written
feedback that I give to administrators.
Key Action Steps Timeline/Benchmarks
1. Identify Training Opportunities for staff and 1. Ongoing
for administrators that focus on educator
evaluation implementation
2. Develop training materials and other 2. Training materials completed during the 2012-13
resources for administrators to use in building school year with ongoing implementation for new
based trainings administrators and teachers.
3. Work with outside vendors and staff to 3. Completed during 2012-13 school year. Training
develop training opportunities for conducted by Teachers 21 and Ribas Associates.
administrators.
4. Set up and implement a schedule for regular 4. Beginning in October, 2012,there will be a
visits to schools to meet with prindpals and minimum of two school visits per month per
other staff. school.
5. Develop a pre/post survey for administrators 5. Survey implemented in December,2012 and will be
and staff that focus on educator evaluation re-administered in December,2013.
system.
6. As part of the training process,have 6. Conduct walkthroughs one day a month during
walkthroughs with other administrators to district leadership team meetings,beginning in
develop inter-rater reliability among buildings October,2013.
in relation to consistency and quality of
feedback.
7. Use administrative council meetings which 7. Ongoing beginning in November,2012
will include all supervisors and evaluators to
discuss process and share feedback
information.
8. Meet with Teacher Assessment Process 8. Bi-Monthly,beginning in October,2012
Committee to maintain dialogue and a
feedback loop for communication for any
concerns during the process.
9. Implement Structure for District Determined 9. Beginning in June,2013,groups of teachers and
Measures that are aligned with Educator administrators will meet by grade level to identify
Evaluation System and Common Core State and/or develop District Determined Measures.
Standards These measures will be piloted and revised during
the 2013-14 school year.
10. Work with teachers,administrators and 10. By September,2013,the district will have
Central Office Administrators to identify identified District Determined Measures for every
and/or develop District Determined educator.
Measures.
11. Pilot District Determined Measures and make 11. 2013-14 School Year
revisions,if necessary.
Update: We are one of the few districts in
Massachusetts that has the vast majority of
educators piloting district determined measures.
During the summer,we will assess this work and
begin implementation for the 2014-15 school year.
12. Implement Year 1 of District Determined 12. 2014-15 School Year
Measures
13. Implement Year 2 of District Determined 13. 2015-16 School Year
Measures
14. Work with TAP Committee and Building 14. • Develop teacher surveys during 2013-14
Principals to develop student and teacher school year
surveys • Develop student surveys during summer of
2014
• Pilot and Implement surveys during 2014-
15 school year
Update: The Superintendent has been involved in
the review of this pilot with the DESE during the
2013-14 school year. The district will work with
DESE and the RTA during the summer of 2014 to
_ implement the surveys.
15. Work with TAP Committee,RTA, and 15. • During the 2013-14 and 2014-15 school
Administrators to investigate a Peer years,investigate the feasibility of
Assistance and Review(PAR) Program implementing a PAR program in the
district.
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III. District Improvement Plan Goals
Please note: the two goals listed above are also district improvement plan goals,
District Improvement Plan Goal 1
District Strategic Objectives Addressed:
Learning and Teaching, Performance Management
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1. As defined in the FY13 budget,hire staffing r 1. By August, 2012,health educators for Grades 7 and
that was identified to support the behavioral 11/12,a district wide school psychologist assessor,
health initiative. and 1.5 FTE social workers were hired.
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3. Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum, 3. By September, 2012 the health curriculum in
RI IHS Wellness Department Chair,Assistant grades 7,9,and 11/12 are planned out with a new
Principal for Athletics, RCASA staff and Health scope and sequence. During the 2012 13 school
Education Teachers implement new health year,the curriculum will be assessed and refined,
curriculum. when needed. During the 2C1 3-14 school year,
health curriculum units will be piloted in grades 3-5
in lieu of the LST curriculum.
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`�ti ti , ' i, _ r.
5. Implement the ALICE enhanced lockdown 5. During the 2012-13 school year,staff will be
system. educated on the ALICE system. During the 2013-14
school year,the system will implemented with a
series of trainings,drills without students,and
drills with students. By the end oft he 2013 14
school year,all schools will have fully implemented
to the new procedures.
Update: As of April 2,2014,all schools ina the
district have had all of the staff training and at
least one ALICE drill with students.
6. Continue to improve each school's safety and 6. During the 2013 14 school year,conduct a needs
security procedures. analysis of the safety and security procedures in
the district and continue to improve those
procedures through an interdepartment
collaboration with police,fire,and facilities.
W Ut W havn rh
entworth pdae: College to conduct a a full th needent e of all e of our used safety intern and security oug s
assessm
P r e , id
with securityas. The w Assistant facilities Superintendent ssues associate for
Fiance cedure and Administration ll as has been working with
ean principal and
to identify ch building the needs and address the the Director issues of where Facilities
appropriate.
7. Assistant Superintendent for Learning and 7. Wellness Committee established in September,
Teaching will develop a district Wellness 2012 and will meet on an as needed basis to review
Committee which will support the the current Wellness policy and suggest changes to
implementation of the new Federal and State the policy.
school lunch nutrition guidelines.
Update: Wellness Policy was reviewed,edited,and
approved by the Reading School Committee in the
summer of 2013.
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will work with schools to implement the new implemented. A student and parent survey will be
Federal and State school lunch nutrition developed to gauge the effectiveness of the new
guidelines. guidelines. During the 2013-14 school year,those
guidelines will be reviewed and changes will be
made,if.necessary.
Update: The Food Services department has done
an excellent job implementing the new school
lunch nutrition guidelines. They continue to review
what is working,what is not working,and how it
can be improved.
9. The Superintendent and the RCASA Executive 9. The YRBS will be administered to all students in
Director will work with Middle and High Grades 6-12 by February,2013. All first semester
School Wellness Departments to administer wellness students will be administered the survey
the Youth Risk Behavior Survey. by January, 2013. All other students in Grades 6-12
will be administered the survey by February,2013.
The results of the survey will be available by June,
2013 and will be analyzed during the summer of
2013. The results will be presented at the RCASA
annual meeting in September, 2013. Additional
analysis will continue during the 2013-14 school
year.
Update: YRBS presentations were made to the
School Committee and Board of Selectmen in the
fall of 2013. There will be an additional update
_ presentation made in the spring of 2014.
10. Staff will administer the SRSS screener as a 10. Screening tool will be used by all staff in the Fall
tool to identify students who may be at risk, and Spring of the 2013-14 school year.
Update: All schools are currently implementing the
SRSS screener tool.
11. School Committee will review the Chemical 11. In May, 2013,the School Committee will review
Health Policy. data from the previous year and hear
recommendations from school administration to
make changes to the Chemical Health Policy,if
necessary.
Update: The School Committee reviewed the
policy in May, 2013. During the 2013-14 school
year,the administration has been reviewing the
policy for further recommendations to the School
Committee in May, 2014.
12. Review participation levels in middle school 12. Work with the High School Principal and the
and high school athletics, extra-curricular, Assistant Principal for Athletics and Extra-curricular
club,and community service activities to Activities to administer questions as part of the
determine if there is a need to increase YRBS that monitor the following:
participation levels.
• Percentage of students participating in
school sponsored athletics,extra-
curricular,and dub activities.
• Percentage of students participating in
community service activities either through
athletics/extra-curricular/dubs or with
other groups.
• Number of sophomores,juniors,and
seniors who do not participate in a sport,
club,or extra-curricular activity after they
participated in their freshmen year.
Using the data derived through the survey and
other data sources develop a plan for the 2013-
14 school year to increase participation in
athletics,extra-curricular,and clubs,if
necessary.
13. Work with elementary and middle school 13. By August of each school year,collect data on the
principals to review data of students leaving number of students who live in Reading and leave
the Reading Public Schools from Grade 5 to 6 the Reading Public Schools to attend another
and Grade 8 to 9 and identify ways to increase school and why they are leaving the Reading Public
the number of students who stay in the Schools. If necessary,develop a plan to address
Reading Public Schools. those reasons.
14. Identify additional revenue sources to assist 14. During each school year,work with the grant
in the funding of the implementation process. writer,Director of Student Services,Behavioral
Health Coordinator,Assistant Superintendent for
Learning and Teaching,and Assistant
Superintendent for Finance and Administration to
seek and apply for additional funding sources.
15. Provide ongoing proactive communication to 15. Provide regular updates through social media,
parents and community about different Edline, Blackboard Connect,community meetings,
initiatives. and School Committee meetings.
Update: We have increased the use of all of our
communication tools including Edline,Connect Ed,
RPS Blog,Twitter,and Facebook to explain the
different initiatives that are going on in this
community.
District Improvement Plan Goal 2
District Strategic Objectives Addressed
Learning and Teaching and Resource Allocation
During the next two years,the district will develop plans to address the resource needs facing our district,
including additional time for staff, additional programmatic space needs at the elementary schools,RISE
preschool,and Reading Memorial High School; the implementation of full day kindergarten for all students,and
additional instructional and administrative support needed to continue to move the district forward. This will
be measured by developing timelines for the implementation of Full Day Kindergarten,the identification of
additional permanent educational space, the renovation of Killam Elementary School,additional professional
time added to the existing school year,and a restructuring plan for instruction and administrative support.
Key Action Steps Timeline/Benchmarks
1. Conduct Elementary Space Study 1. From November,2011 to June,2012,an
elementary space study was conducted by Frank
Locker Associates.
Status: Completed
2. Use the results of the Elementary Space study 2. During the summer of 2012,several School
to develop plans for Full Day Kindergarten Committee meetings were held to discuss the
and Elementary Space. implementation of Full Day Kindergarten for all
students. In August,2012,the School Committee
voted to direct the administration to implement
Full Day Kindergarten.
Status: Completed
3. File a Statement of Interest with the 3. Statement of Interest was filed in January,2012.
Massachusetts School Building Authority for MSBA will be making decisions on projects in
the renovation of Killam. October,2012 and November, 2012. A follow-up
Statement of Interest was filed in April, 2013.
Status: Completed. MSBA did not approve project.
4. Review different options for increasing 4. During the 2013-14 school year,an Early Childhood
Elementary Space Space Study Working Group will be developed with
the charge of reviewing existing space and options,
identifying new options,and recommending to the
Reading School Committee a prioritized set of
options.
Status: Early Childhood Working group was formed
in October,2013 and met several times to identify,
analyze,and recommend different options to the
School Committee. The work of the working group
was completed in March,2014.
5. Work with School and Town officials to 5. Based on the Early Childhood Working Group
identify the best options for Killam, recommendations,a plan will be developed for the
Elementary Space,and Full Day Kindergarten implementation of Full Day Kindergarten and the
that is educationally sound and is financial best option for providing additional educational
feasible for the community space for the preschool and elementary level.
Killam improvements have been placed over
multiple years in the Capital Plan.
Status: In February,the Early Childhood Working
Group recommended an option to build a PreK-K
Early Childhood Center in the Fine and Performing
Arts Parking Lot of Reading Memorial High School
with adjacent parking off of Oakland Road.
6. Implement Full Day Kindergarten for all 6. Full Day Kindergarten should be budgeted and
students implemented one year prior to a permanent space
solution is developed.
Status: This is on hold,pending approval of space.
7. Work with the High School Principal,Assistant 7. In the FY14 budget,funding will be allocated,if
Superintendent for Finance and necessary,to convert existing office and large
Administration,and Director of Facilities to classroom space into classrooms and other core
identify space solutions,both short term and facilities.
long term,to address space needs at Reading
Memorial High School. In July and August, 2013,existing high school space
was converted to additional classroom space and
other core facilities.
When additional space becomes available for the
RISE preschool in an alternative location, RISE
classrooms at RMHS can be converted to High
School Classrooms.
Status: In the summer of 2013,some changes were
made to existing classrooms to create more space
for special education program and classrooms.
This resulted in the relocation of the TSP program
to two spaces and dividing a large classroom space
into two smaller spaces.
- .hipr a in f'the cY S
�s s� d i *It.--� ' it11 li 0atitSi e"� � I � t it b` a s 'atiVe$:
'S �oi 3 a Pr
i
.,�qr�i �+ � �ill �,,�� I r ���i i
fi :i ea $ a.# 4' "■afi � §.. +„j { r3.n?
}�$is ,fir ..t,�t art' � girt rs�
budget '
9. Work with staff and administration to identify 9. During the 201344 school year,an additional
opportunities to add more professional professional development day will be added in
learning time to the school year. October by reducing the number of student days
from 181 to 180. As part of the FY15 budget
process,additional time will be explored and
proposed.
Status: This is currently being discussed as part of
the Collective Bargaining Process with the RTA.
District Improvement Plan Goal 3
District Strategic Objective Addressed: Performance Management
Du ei e€ �; d ,jy € iA� € '4;1„. � „ a d its s :
"*r� € ��'7 h l�r�di� l�h .� ',».
r
#
akeh a` '�mk �Sti �� xe ti •E t f � saki. €i � l:re1t�,-xk� not1 ge 'a _#� 4 a ."1 � d z o
1. Identify a committee of staff and
d community 1. By February,2014,the Communications
members that will give input into the Committee will be chosen.
development of a Reading Public Schools
Communication Plan
�-'' t 1 r6° ,, D "� �� ➢ka4"t s ma� S ART#
�.
?- 3
4. Using the recommendations from the audit 4. The Communications Committee will complete a
and other survey data,develop a draft draft plan by June, 2014.
communication plan.
RNk, � h i e5
September,20144.
6. Implement the plan and monitor for 6. During the 2014-15 school year,the
effectiveness. communications plan will be implemented and
stakeholders will be surveyed on the effectiveness
of communication in the district.
Update on this Goal: At this point, we have not moved forward with the implementation of this goal due to
the other initiatives that have been going on in the district. However, one area that has changed as a result of
this goal is the amount of social media tools (Twitter, Facebook, Blog), as well as, increased use of Edline and
Connect Ed to communicate district and school information. The Journey Newsletter continues to be a major
source of communication for staff and each building principal communicates to the community and staff
through various tools including blogs, emails, and newsletters.
Other Initiatives or Projects Not Related to Goals
In addition to the above goals,there have been several other initiatives, projects, and activities going on in this
district this current school year and some will continue into next year. They are listed below in no particular
order:
1. Administrative Searches-Director of Student Services, Network Manager, High School Principal,
Director of Facilities, Director of Finance and Operations
2. Technology Audit
3. Implementation of PARCC Field Test
4. Implementation of Religious Accommodations Policy
5. Collective Bargaining for all 5 Collective Bargaining Units
6. Preparation for April Blue Ribbon Conference
7. Implementation of Elementary Standards Based Report Card
8. NEASC Improvements
9. Superintendent's Advisory Council to DESE
10. United States Secretary of Education visit to Reading
11. Development of FY15 Budget
12. Special Education Coordinated Program Review
13. RETELLS Implementation
14. Implementation of new Discipline Law
15. Hiring of new legal counsels
Professional Development Activities(July, 2013-August, 2014)
Listed below are several of the professional development activities and topics that staff have or will be
attending from July, 2013-August, 2014.
Learning and Teaching Professional Development
o Home Grown Institutes for the Teaching of Writing—K-8
o MTSS training
o PLTW training at Worcester Polytechnic Institute
o RPS Educator Induction Institute
o National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE) national conference
o District Determined Measures (DDM)
o Edwin Teaching & Learning cohort
o Standards-Based Report Cards—Elementary Level
o Great Books Roundtable training
o CCSS Literacy workshop
o Health Curriculum review—Elementary Level
o Math in Focus trainings—K-6
o Math in Focus coaching—K-6
o Math CCSS training with Steve Leinwand (7-12)
o Math training with Dan Meyer
o Math Workshop with Mahesh Sharma ("Number Concepts, Number Sense, & Numeracy: A Common
Core Approach to Reach All Learners")—K-5
o PARCC overview webinars
o RETELL DESE training
o Title I training/overview
o Developing Mathematical Practices for Algebra course, with Katherine Foulser(Math 7-10)
o NSTA National Conference on Science Education
o MASSCue
o Anti-Bullying Training(new staff)
o MASS Executive Institute
o Blue Ribbon Schools of Excellence national conference
o School Reform Initiative (SRI) national conference
o Helping Traumatized Children Learn course
o MESPA spring conference
o BLC conference
o Expanding the Boundaries of Teaching and Learning Conference
o New Teacher Induction Program
Special Education Professional Development
o Understanding the complex puzzle of non-suicidal self-injury
o Behavioral Health staff
o An Evidence Based Approach to Standing and Walking for Children with Moderate to Severe Motor
Dysfunction
o OT/PTs
o Selective Mutism
o Speech Language Pathologist
o Ilda King—Reading Instruction for Students(SEEM)
o Elementary special education teachers
o SEEM Legal Seminar
o Team Chairpersons, administrators
o How to Keep Special Education Special
o Team Chairpersons
o IEP Goal Writing
o Team Chairpersons
o Threat Assessment and Violence Risk Assessment in an Educational Setting
o School Psychologist, Social Workers
o IEP Development: Writing Measureable Goals and Benchmarks
o Special Ed Department Head,Team Chairpersons
o Behavioral Health Conference
o Team Chairpersons, School Psychologists, Behavioral Health Coordinator, Social Workers
o Social Thinking Conference
o Team Chairpersons, School Psychologists, Special Education teachers, paraprofessionals
o Transition Assessments& Programming
o Team Chairpersons, High School Special Education teachers
o Implementing Social Thinking Concepts and Vocabulary into the School and Home Day
o School Psychologists, special education teachers
o Improving Executive Function and organization skills in teens
o Special Education Teachers
o Students of Trauma
o Self-Injury and Self-Destructive Behaviors in Youth
o Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
o Eating Disorders In Adolescents
o Mass Downs Syndrome Conference
o Special Education Teachers
o Effective Strategies for Team Meetings
o School Psychologists,Team Chairpersons, Behavioral Health Coordinator
o Use the DSM-5 for the revolutionizing diagnosis &treatment
o Behavioral Health Coordinator
o Proactive Strategies for Anxious Kids
o School Psychologists, Behavioral Health Coordinator
o Strategies for Writing Effective IEPS
o Team Chairpersons
o Teaming for Success: Co-Teaching and Inclusive Practices to Close the Achievement Gap
o Special Education &General Education teachers
o Dancing the Dance:Another Look at Teaming for Success
o Special Education & General Education teachers
o Collaborative Co-Teaching in the Inclusive Classroom
o General Education &Special Education teachers
o Creating and Sustaining Positive, School-Wide Learning Environments
o Differentiated Instruction
o Partnering with Families of Pre-School and Elementary School Students with Disabilities
o Partnering with Families of Middle and High School Students with Disabilities
o Secondary Transition Assessment for Students with Disabilities
o Secondary Transition Planning: Universal Design and Collaboration with Students, Families,
Professionals, and Community Partners
o Helping Traumatized Children Learn
o IEP development
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John F.Doherty,Ed.D. Mary C. DeLai
Superintendent of Schools Assistant Superintendent
#44U 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: May 15, 2014
TOPIC: Director of Finance & Operation Qualities
At our meeting on Monday evening, I will ask the School Committee for input on the qualities they
would like to see in the next Director of Finance & Operation for the Reading Public Schools. I have
included an updated timeline for your information.
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
Screening Process for Director of Finance and Operations
Please note: All information and discussions by screening committee members are confidential and
cannot be shared now or in the future.
I. Screening Committee Members
a. The Screening Committee will consist of representatives from the following groups:
• Assistant Superintendent of Learning and Teaching-Craig Martin-Facilitator
• School Committee Member-Jean Borawski
• Director of Food Service-Kristin Morello
• Facilities Staff Member-Kevin Cabuzzi
• Building Principal-Eric Sprung
• Teacher-Kristin Killian
• Town Manager or Designee-Sharon Angstrom
• Parent-Chris Kelley
• Community Member-Jacqui Carson
• Central Office Staff Member-Martha, ert
II. Schedule
All dates, times, and locations are tentative.
Date Time Event Location
May 6 Sc lCommittee Approves Process
May 7 Glob Ad 1.School Sprang Posting
for'Position
May 19 Focus Group wit itnitool Committee School Committee Conference Room
May 13 Foc z*Group Seialinn,with School Committee Conference Room
Administrators :.
May 12-28 Online Survs gaff and tents
May 20 4:00-#4. Screen4 ommittee School Committee Conference Room
Organza' nal Meeting
May 28 4:00 p m ,, Meng to Deem Questions School Committee Conference Room
May 27 De for Applications
May 29 June;4„ Screennnt Committee Reads Schoolspring.com
Applications online
June 5 All Day Candidate Interviews and School Committee Conference Room
Recommend Pre-Finalists to
''Superintendent
June 5 to June 13 Vetting Process
a► Superintendent Interviews
' Finalists Announced
``• School Committee Interviews
June 16 7:30 P.M. ' Superintendent Recommendation to School Committee Conference Room
School Committee and School
Committee Vote
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 r' 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: May 15, 2014
TOPIC: School Nutrition Director Inter-Municipal Agreement
Our School Nutrition Director regionalization model with Wakefield Public Schools this past year has
been a great success. Both districts have been pleased with the model. As a result, both parties are
interested in executing a new three year inter-municipal agreement. The previous agreement was just for
one year. I have attached for you the agreement that we would propose to execute. You will see that this
is a redlined version showing the changes made from the prior one year agreement.
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.
Inter-municipal Agreement Between
Reading Public Schools
AND
Wakefield Public Schools
This Inter-municipal Agreement dated as of this day of May, 201 (this
"Agreement")by and between the Town of Reading, acting by and through its School
Committee ("the Reading Public Schools"), and the Town of Wakefield, acting by and through
its School Committee ("the Wakefield Public Schools")
WITNESSETH THAT:
Whereas,the parties desire to achieve economies by sharing the services of a School
Nutrition Director; and
Whereas,pursuant to G.L. c. 40, §4A,this Agreement has been approved by the Board
of Selectmen of the Town of Reading and by the Board of Selectmen of the Town of Wakefield,
and this Agreement has been further approved by the School Committee of the Town of Reading
and the School Committee of the Town of Wakefield, and the Superintendents of the Reading
Public Schools and the Wakefield Public Schools have been duly authorized to execute this
Agreement by their respective School Committees;
Now,therefore, in consideration of the premises set forth above, and the mutual
promises set forth below, and for other good and valuable consideration the receipt and
sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged,the undersigned hereby agree as follows:
1. Employment of School Nutrition Director by Reading Public Schools; Payment
by Wakefield Public Schools. The Reading Public Schools shall appoint and
employ a School Nutrition Director(the "Director") and shall be responsible for the
salary paid and all employment-related benefits granted to such employee. Without
limiting the generality of the foregoing,the Reading Public Schools shall be
responsible for any medical or other insurance,retirement contributions,workers'
compensation coverage, unemployment benefits, and vacation and other leave to
which the Director may be entitled by law or by contract. The Director shall furnish
services as School Nutrition Director of both the Reading Public Schools and the
Wakefield Public Schools. The Wakefield Public Schools shall contribute to the cost
of employing her by paying to the Reading Public Schools the sum of 560.000
$61,500 in FY2015--ariftua , $63,100 in 1 Y2016 and $64,700 in FY2017.
notwithstanding the provisions of Section 2, below. Equal payments of$20.000 each
shall be made three times per year due and payable on September 1, 2013. December
1, 2013. and March 1. 2014. It is anticipated that the Director will continue to
be Kristin Morello. The Reading Public Schools shall arrange for coverage of the
Director's position during any period of the Director's absence exceeding twenty
work days during the Director's work year(as defined in Section 2, below). In
addition,the Reading Public Schools shall arrange for coverage of the Director's
1
position, if warranted, during any period of the Director's absence if mutually agreed
upon by Reading Public Schools and Wakefield Public Schools. Should Reading
Public Schools not find a suitable replacement or interim candidate to fulfill the role
of School Nutrition Director for both Reading Public Schools and Wakefield Public
Schools during such extended period of absence,Reading Public Schools shall
reimburse the Wakefield Public Schools on a pro rata basis for the period of time
during such extended absence when there is no such coverage.
2. Work Time. The Reading Public Schools will employ the Director for a work year
consisting of 215 business days. Specific schedules shall be arranged by mutual
agreement of the School Business Officer in each district and in consultation with the
Director. The work year for the Director shall commence no later than ten days prior
to the start of the Reading Public Schools' academic year and shall end no sooner
than ten days after the conclusion of the Reading Public Schools' academic year.
Any time worked prior to the established start date or after the established end date
shall be paid to the Director at a per diem rate.
3. Term. The term of this Agreement(the"Term) shall be for a period of one(1)Three
(3)years commencing on July 1, 20134 and ending on June 30, 201417. The parties
anticipate that if they achieve the economies which they hope to enjoy during such
period,they will agree, in writing.to a renewal of this Agreement for a term of equal
or greater length.
4. Duties of Director. The Director shall be responsible for the management,
supervision, and oversight of the School Nutrition programs of the Reading Public
Schools and the Wakefield Public Schools, subject to the direction of their respective
Superintendents or their designees and to the budgetary limits set by their respective
School Committees. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing,the Director
shall be responsible for the following for both parties hereto:
a. Preparation and administration of the School Nutrition budget;
b. Acquisition of equipment and supplies;
c. Providing input on hiring, firing, discipline, motivation, and preparation of annual
performance evaluations for cafeteria staff;
d. Day-to-day School Nutrition personnel deployment and task assignment;
e. Providing input to the School Committee for purposes of collective bargaining;
f. Planning and delivery of meals;
g. Back office support, defined in Section 5 below;
h. Menu planning;
i. Nutritional planning;
j. Promoting, monitoring, and analyzing participation in meals programs;
k. Revenue collection;
1. Loss control;
m. Cash control;
n. Reporting to the Bureau of Nutrition of the Department of Elementary and
Secondary Education; and
2
o. Such other related duties as may be assigned,jointly or severally, from time to
time by the Superintendents of the Reading Public Schools and the Wakefield
Public Schools or their designees.
5. Definition of"Back Office Support". As used herein, "back office support" means
and includes the following:
a. Office telephone and email support;
b. Menu and document production;
c. Accounts payable preparation;
d. Accounts receivable preparation;
e. Cash deposits;
f. Cash counting;
g. Inventory control;
h. Food and supply ordering;
i. School Nutrition equipment maintenance, repair, and replacement.
6. Reimbursable Expenses. The Reading Public Schools will reimburse the Director
for any mileage,travel expenses, professional association dues, and professional
development costs to which she may be entitled per contract.
7. Performance Evaluation. The School Business Official of the Reading Public
Schools will annually conduct a performance evaluation of the Director. The
evaluation will be based on the Director's job description as maintained by the
Reading Public Schools, any goals or objectives established by either or both of the
Superintendents for the Director, and any guidelines for administrative personnel
maintained by either or both of the Reading Public Schools and the Wakefield Public
Schools. The School Business Official of the Reading Public Schools shall solicit
input and feedback from the School Business Official of the Wakefield Public
Schools and this feedback shall be incorporated into the evaluation. It is anticipated
that the annual evaluation will serve as a major basis on which the Reading Public
Schools will decide whether to renew the Director's employment contract and that
any deficiencies identified through the evaluation process could lead to termination,
non-renewal, discipline or remedial action. The Reading Public Schools shall have
authority to terminate or discipline the Director, and to determine whether or not to
renew her employment contract.
8. Termination. This Agreement may be terminated at any time by agreement of the
parties and will terminate sixty (60) days after either party gives written notice to the
other of such party's desire to terminate this Agreement. No such termination shall
affect any obligation of indemnification that may have arisen hereunder prior to such
termination. The parties shall equitably adjust any payments made or due relating to
the unexpired portion of the Term following such termination, including without
limitation any payment made by the Wakefield Public Schools under Section 1,
above.
3
9. Indemnification.
A. By the Wakefield Public Schools. Notwithstanding the final sentence of G.L. c.
40, §4A,the Wakefield Public Schools,to the extent allowed by applicable law,
shall indemnify and hold harmless the Reading Public Schools and each and all of
their officials, officers, employees, agents, servants and representatives (the
"Reading Indemnitees")from and against any claim arising from or in connection
with the performance by the Director of her duties for the Wakefield Public
Schools including,without limitation, any claim of liability, loss, damages, costs,
and expenses for personal injury or damage to real or personal property by reason
of any negligent act or omission or intentional misconduct by the Director while
in or performing services for the Wakefield Public Schools. Such indemnification
shall include,without limitation, current payment of all costs of defense
(including reasonable attorneys' fees, expert witness fees, court costs, and related
expenses) as and when such costs become due and the amounts of any judgments,
awards, and/or settlements,provided that(a)the Wakefield Public Schools shall
have the right to select counsel to defend against such claims, such counsel to be
reasonably acceptable to the Reading Public Schools and its insurer, if any, and to
approve or reject any settlement with respect to which indemnification is sought;
(b)the Reading Indemnitees shall cooperate with the Wakefield Public Schools in
all reasonable aspects in connection with such defense; and(c)the Wakefield
Public Schools shall not be responsible to pay any judgment, award, or settlement
to the extent occasioned by the negligence or intentional misconduct of any of the
Reading Indemnitees (which term excludes the Director).
B. By the Reading Public Schools. Notwithstanding the final sentence of G.L. c.
40, §4A,the Reading Public Schools,to the extent allowed by applicable law,
shall indemnify and hold harmless the Wakefield Public Schools and each and all
of their officials, officers, employees, agents, servants and representatives (the
"Wakefield Indemnitees")from and against any claim arising from or in
connection with the performance by the Director of her duties for the Reading
Public Schools including,without limitation, any claim of liability, loss, damages,
costs, and expenses for personal injury or damage to real or personal property by
reason of any negligent act or omission or intentional misconduct by the Director
while in or performing services for the Reading Public Schools. Such
indemnification shall include,without limitation, current payment of all costs of
defense (including reasonable attorneys' fees, expert witness fees, court costs, and
related expenses)as and when such costs become due and the amounts of any
judgments, awards, and/or settlements,provided that(a)the Reading Public
Schools shall have the right to select counsel to defend against such claims, such
counsel to be reasonably acceptable to the Wakefield Public Schools and its
insurer, if any, and to approve or reject any settlement with respect to which
indemnification is sought; (b)the Wakefield Indemnitees shall cooperate with the
Reading Public Schools in all reasonable aspects in connection with such defense;
and(c)the Reading Public Schools shall not be responsible to pay any judgment,
4
award, or settlement to the extent occasioned by the negligence or intentional
misconduct of any of the Wakefield Indemnitees (which term excludes the
Director).
10. Maximum Financial Liability of Parties. The Wakefield Public Schools shall not
be responsible to pay more than $60,000$61,500 in FY2015, $63,100 in FY2016 and
$64,700 in FY2017 per year to support the employment of the Director, nor shall the
Reading Public Schools be responsible to pay more annually than the difference
between the said sum and the costs of the salary and benefits to which the Director is
entitled by contract and by law, notwithstanding the provisions of Section 2, above.
11.Financial Safeguards. The parties shall keep and exchange accurate and
comprehensive records concerning the services performed by the Director in and for
their respective schools,the costs incurred in connection with her employment and
the services rendered by her, and all reimbursements and contributions received by or
from either of the parties in connection therewith. Each party shall conduct an audit,
no less frequently than annually,to confirm that the Director has duly accounted for
all funds for which she is responsible in connection with such party's schools,the
results of which shall be promptly shared between the parties.
12. Assignment. Neither party shall assign or transfer any of its rights or interests in or
to this Agreement, or delegate any of its obligations hereunder,without the prior
written consent of the other.
13. Severability. If any provision of this Agreement is held by a court of competent
jurisdiction to be invalid, illegal, or unenforceable, or if any such term is so held
when applied to any particular circumstance, such invalidity, illegality,or
unenforceability shall not affect any other provision of this Agreement, or affect the
application of such provision to any other circumstances, and this Agreement shall be
construed and enforced as if such invalid, illegal, or unenforceable provision were not
contained herein.
14. Waiver. The obligations and conditions set forth in this Agreement may be waived
only by a writing signed by the party waiving such obligation or condition.
Forbearance or indulgence by a party shall not be construed as a waiver, nor limit the
remedies that would otherwise be available to that party under this Agreement or
applicable law. No waiver of any breach or default shall constitute or be deemed
evidence of a waiver of any subsequent breach or default.
15.Amendment. This Agreement may be amended only by a writing signed by both
parties duly authorized thereunto.
16. Governing Law. This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance
with the substantive law of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts,without regard to
the conflict of laws' provisions thereof.
5
17. Heading. The paragraph headings herein are for convenience only, are no part of this
Agreement and shall not affect the construction of the terms of this Agreement.
18.Notices. Any notice permitted or required hereunder to be given or served on either
party by the other shall be in writing signed in the name of or on behalf of the other
party giving or serving the same. Notice shall be deemed to have been received at the
time of actual receipt of any hand delivery or three (3)business days after the date of
any properly addressed notice sent by mail as set forth below.
A. To the Reading Public Schools. Any notice to the Reading Public Schools shall
be delivered by hand or sent by registered or certified mail, return receipt
requested,postage prepaid,to the Superintendent of the Reading Public Schools.
B. To the Wakefield Public Schools. Any notice to the Wakefield Public Schools
shall be delivered by hand or sent by registered or certified mail,return receipt
requested,postage prepaid,to the Superintendent of the Wakefield Public
Schools.
19. Complete Agreement. This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement between the
parties concerning the subject matter hereof, superseding all prior agreements and
understandings. There are no other agreements or understandings between the parties
concerning the subject matter hereof.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF,the parties have set their hands and seals as of the first date
set forth above.
READING PUBLIC SCHOOLS
BY:
John F. Doherty,Ed.D.
Superintendent
Duly authorized.
WAKEFIELD PUBLIC SCHOOLS
BY:
Stephen K. Zrike,Ed.D
Superintendent
Duly authorized.
6
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: May 15, 2014
TOPIC: Accept a Donation from The Friends of Reading High School Baseball
At our meeting, I am asking the School Committee to accept a donation from the Friends of Reading
High School Baseball to be used to support the Instructor positions for the 2013-14 coaching assistant.
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.
r V
I
The Friends of Reading High School Baseball, thc.
P.O. Box 133
•
Reading Ma, 01867
May 9,2014
Reading School Committee
82 Oakland Street
Reading, Ma.01867
Dear Committee Members:
On behalf of the Friends of Reading High School Baseball we would like to submit this
check in the amount of$3239.15. This check is earmarked for the salary of the varsity assistant
baseball coach for the year 2014.
It is with great pride that our newly formed organization has the ability to work with you
in the financing of your athletic program.
Sincerely,
Ray Blanchard
President of the Friends of Reading High School Baseball, Inc.
I v
John F.Doherty,Ed. D. Maly C.DeLai
Superintendent of Schools Assistant Superintendent
for Finance and Administration
82 Oakland Road
Reading,MA 01867 Craig Martin
4411I
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: May 15, 2014
TOPIC: Accept a Donation from the Coolidge Science Olympiad Support Group
At our meeting, I am asking the School Committee to accept a donation from the Coolidge Science
Olympiad Support Group to be used to support the head coaching positions for the 2013-14 school year.
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.
Proud to be a NELMS Spotlight School and Coolidge Middle School
a national Blue Ribbon Lighthouse School
Memo
To: John Doherty,Superintendent
Mary DeLai, Director of Finance and Operations
From Sarah Marchant
Date: 5/12/14
Re: Science Olympiad Stipend
Please accept the donation in the amount of $1,000 from the Coolidge Science Olympiad (CSSO) for the
purpose of compensating the Karawan Meade, head coach of the Coolidge Science Olympiad Team.
Following the team's win at the state tournament, Mrs. Mead has dedicated many hours beyond the original
stipended time in order to help prepare the team for the National Olympiad Tournament in Orlando, FL. The
team will depart this Wednesday and will return on Sunday. We wish them all the best,and thank you for your
continued support of this program!
The Reading Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race,color,sex,reli gio n,national origin,sexual orientation,
age ordisebility.
O 1, : 1
Coolidge School Science Olympiad • 89 Brick Meadow Drive• Reading, MA 01867 • 781/942-9158
Ili4-111
{g�jZ.YMaY �K[4
April 10,2014
Dear Mrs.Marchant:
The Coolidge School Science Olympiad (CSSO)hereby requests that the Reading
Public Schools accept our donation in the amount of$1,000 for the purpose of
compensating the following teachers for science team duties performed during
the 2013-2014 school year. This amounts cover the period between the state
and national tournaments (March through May,2014).
• Karawan Meade:$1,000
We hope that our donation will be accepted and remain grateful as always for
the support that you and the Reading Public Schools continue to display for
science education.
Yours truly,
U
Liz Rogers
CSSO President
etriVtat
so.k/the•vJid9dn•
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: May 15, 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 and Shakespeare Instructor positions for the second semester 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. 01867
May 9, 2014
Mary DeLai
Assistant Superintendent
Reading Public Schools
62 Oakland Road
Reading, Ma. 01867
Dear Ms. DeLai,
Please accept the enclosed check*the amount of$2,925.00 for the
purposes of funding positions, suppoiig the Reading High School Drama
Program.
The following positions are being funded:
• Improv Instructor(Brett Bovio) , $1,425.00 (Semester ii stipend)
- Shakespeare Instructor[Katie Donovan),$1,500 (Semester Il
y stipend)
If you need any information on the instructor, Kristin Killia'n of the Drama
Department would be able to obtain it for you.
•
Thank you for your attention to this request.
Carl Mittnight
Treasurer
PSST
Town of Reading
� l ±►' �, Meeting Minutes
Board - Committee - Commission - Council:
School Committee
Date: 2014-04-23 Time: 7:30 AM
Building: School - Memorial High Location: Superintendent Conference Room
Address: 82 Oakland Road
Purpose: Open Session Session: General Session
Attendees: Members - Present:
Linda Snow Dockser John Doherty, Superintendent
Chuck Robinson
Chris Caruso
Jeanne Borawski
Hal Croft
Members - Not Present:
Elaine Webb
Andrea Nastri, Student Representative
Alison Elmer, Director of Student Services
Mary DeLai, Assistant Superintendent
Conner Traugot, Student Representative
Craig Martin, Assistant Superintenent
Others Present:
David Doneski
Bob LeLacheur
Minutes Respectfully Submitted By: John F. Doherty, Ed.D. Superintendent
Topics of Discussion:
I. Call to Order
Chair Croft called the School Committee to order at 7:32 a.m.
The Chair shall declare that executive session is necessary to protect the negotiating
position of the body.
Mr. Caruso moved,seconded by Mrs. Borawski, to enter into executive session
to discuss strategy with respect to litigation and to return to open session at
approximately 7:50 a.m. The roll call vote carried. Mrs.Borawski,Dr. Snow
Dockser,Mr. Croft,Mr. Robinson and Mr. Caruso.
The meeting adjourned at 7:33 a.m.
The open session was called back to order at 8:14 a.m.
Page I 1
Early Childhood Education Center
Dr. Doherty shared that the Board of Selectmen met on Tuesday evening. Mr.
LeLacheur said it was the third meeting of the new board and they reviewed the
Town Meeting warrant including articles related to the Early Childhood
Education Center.
Mr. Caruso left the meeting at 8:25 a.m.
Mr. LeLacheur has advised the Board of Selectmen to focus on the budget at
Town Meeting and they address town Capital concerns over the summer with the
Finance Committee.
Dr. Doherty said he will be giving a full Early Childhood Education Center
presentation on Monday at Town Meeting. He feels it is important to provide as
much information as possible to the community.
Mrs. Borawski encouraged Working Group members to be visible to Town
Meeting.
Mr. Robinson moved,seconded by Mrs.Borawski,to adjourn. The motion
carried 5-0.
II. Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 8:53 a.m.
NOTE: The minutes reflect the order as stated in the posted meeting agenda not
the order they occurred during the meeting.
Page 12
Or 4164' A
Town of Reading ,
Meeting Minutes 0
Board - Committee - Commission - Council:
School Committee
Date: 2014-04-29 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:
Linda Snow Dockser John Doherty, Superintendent
Chuck Robinson Craig Martin, Assistant Superintendent
Elaine Webb
Jeanne Borawski
Hal Croft
Conner Traugot, Student Representative
Members - Not Present:
Chris Caruso
Andrea Nastri, Student Representative
Alison Elmer, Director of Student Services
Mary DeLai, Assistant Superintendent
Others Present:
Cathy Giles, Killam Principal
Nina Balfe, Killam Teacher
Liz Lovell, Coolidge Teacher
Chris Kelley, REF Board
Mike Foley, REF Board
Demetra Restuccia, REF Board
Nancy Dieselman, REF Board
Andrea Nelson, REF Board
Susan Shields, REF Board
Al Sylvia, Reading Chronicle
Minutes Respectfully Submitted By: John F. Doherty, Ed.D. Superintendent
Topics of Discussion:
I. Call to Order
Chair Croft called the School Committee to order at 7:06 p.m.
He reviewed the agenda, announced the meeting was being recorded and welcomed
guests.
Accept a Donation from Reading Education Foundation (out of order)
Page I 1
Mr. Robinson moved, seconded by Mrs. Webb,to accept a donation from the
Reading Education Foundation in the amount of$49,269.64 as part of the grant
program.
Ms. Chris Kelley,Reading Education Foundation Chair, introduced the members
accompanying her this evening and provided a brief overview of the Reading
Education Foundation's work. This year,through the fundraising efforts of the
group,REF is able to fund $49,269.64 in requested grants for this cycle. She also
shared that the next fundraiser is this weekend. The Imagination Celebration and
Silent Auction will be on Saturday night.
Ms.Nancy Dieselman, Co-Chair of the Grants Committee reviewed the requested and
awarded grants. She shared that there were 17 applications this year and included
representation from every school. Several of the grant proposals were collaborative
efforts between teachers and/or schools. REF was able to fund 12 grant proposals
this cycle and hope to be able to fund more next year. Ms. Dieselman said the Grants
Committee was impressed by the range of proposals.
Dr. Snow Dockser thanked the group for providing this opportunity for our staff.
Mrs. Borawski echoed the sentiments saying that our teachers are given an important
opportunity to experiment in the classroom and many times branch out and share with
the district.
Mrs. Webb appreciated the tremendous amount of time and work the Board of REF
puts into the fundraising efforts.
Mrs. Kelley shared information on another upcoming Teacher Tribute fundraiser. It
is a great opportunity to recognize teachers and staff in the district.
The vote on the original motion was 5-0.
The School Committee took a brief recess at 7:24 p.m. for the check presentation
photo opportunity.
The meeting was called back to order at 7:25 p.m.
New Business (out of order)
Killam Presentation
Killam Principal Cathy Giles and Killam Teacher Nina Balfe presented the GRIT
initiative happening at Killam this year. The Killam staff is focused on teaching all
students about the importance of having grit and a growth mindset. This initiative is a
collaborative all school effort instilling the benefits of perseverance.
As part of the Educator Evaluation process Killam teachers and Mrs. Giles have
developed a school-wide SMART goal to guide this initiative. They have developed
school-wide strategies to teach the students to venture out of their comfort zones and
not be afraid of failing. They have developed the use of positive reinforcement to
encourage students to persevere.
Page 12
A test group of students have been selected for the pilot. These students have created
GRIT portfolios to keep track of their successes and struggles. The plan is to
implement the portfolios school wide next year.
Ms. Balfe stresses a growth mindset for her first graders cultivating their desire to be
challenged. She said it has been very successful in her class. She sees more positive
thinking among her students. At the beginning of the year students established goals
for themselves which are on their chairs. As students attain their goals they create
new goals to replace the accomplished goals.
Mrs. Giles said that partnerships between students have developed and successes are
celebrated and recognized. The GRIT initiative ties in with the MTSS for all students
and aids in closing gaps in lagging skills by providing the needed support system.
Mrs. Webb asked how all students needs were addressed. Mrs. Giles said that it is a
goal at Killam for all students to have an educational plan that highlights strengths
and areas to learn and grow. She feels that the standards based report card is a great
tool to facilitate the growth and to teach the students to persevere.
Mrs. Borawski feels it is important to teach our kids how to deal with struggles and
provide tools to help them succeed and believes it addresses the social-emotional
needs of our students when faced with challenges.
Mr. Robinson asked if Killam was collaborating with the other schools. Mrs. Giles
said that all the elementary schools are incorporating these skills in different ways.
Chair Croft thanked Mrs. Giles and Ms. Balfe for sharing the information.
II. Recommended Procedure
A. Public Input(I)
B. Reports (I)
1. Student
Student Representative Traugot reported on several items that occurred before
vacation. The District held its annual Artsfest. He said it was great to be able
to see all sorts of artwork from all grade levels on display in the hallways of
the high school. He also reported on the Blue Ribbon Conference. Several
students helped out during the two days. The Junior Prom was also held prior
to vacation. RMHS Drama is presenting Tom Sawyer this weekend and AP
Exams begin next week. The senior class has begun the annual countdown
until the last day of classes.
2. Liaison
Dr. Snow Dockser also reported on Artsfest and appreciated the amazing
display of talent. She also thanked the teachers and administration for
changing the date to avoid a conflict with the Passover holiday. The middle
and high school integrated chorus and jazz bands were a highlight of the
event.
Page 13
She also reported on the recent RMHS Robotics team competition held at
Boston University. It was an outstanding event and our kids did very well.
C. Continued Business
FY 15 Budget Update
Dr. Doherty reviewed the latest reduction list. The reduction is now $315,000
because we are now able to roll over a balance from the Race to the Top grant and
a grant received to assist in the implementation of MTSS. These funds will be
used for professional development allowing a reduction of and additional $55,000
from that line. It has also been decided not to fund the Elementary Social Worker
position and to work with local colleges and universities to provide interns to
work with our elementary population. These interns will be supervised by
Behavioral Health Coordinator Sara Burd. We hope to have 5 interns working
with our students providing support that currently does not exist at the elementary
level. Also included in the reductions is funding for technology replenishment,
consulting services, 1.0 FTE High School position and 1.0 FTE Middle School
position.
Early Childhood Education Center
Superintendent Doherty asked for guidance from the School Committee for the
appropriate direction as the discussion on this article continues at Town Meeting
on Thursday night.
Dr. Snow Dockser feels that there needs to be clarity as to what the ECEC will
look like. The town needs to know the facility will contain full size classroom
and specialty spaces. It would be a facility for educational and community use.
Mr. Robinson reflected on the discussion that took place on the Town Meeting
floor and feels it is not that body's role to make value judgments on School
Committee decisions.
Mr. Croft feels that Town Meeting did not give credence to the School Committee
decisions as they relate to national trends and demographics as those trends relate
to the discussion on the ECEC.
Dr. Snow Dockser also would like it made clear that with an ECEC, space would
be re-gained in our elementary schools to house art, music and special education
programs in their own spaces and to bring the district into compliance with
special education regulations.
Mrs. Borawski asked what we need to do as a committee. We need to provide
and receive direction from the community. She also understands that it is
important that the town boards meet to discuss the other fiscal priorities and how
the ECEC fits into those.
Dr. Snow Dockser has the sense that the community is concerned with the
location and traffic of the proposed site and would like more information on the
Page 14
feasibility of the Oakland Road site. She suggested that a traffic and
geotechnical study be done to address these concerns.
Mr. Robinson and Mrs. Borawski suggested that the School Committee ask to
table this article and find a way to articulate the need for this project. They would
like to have the community share ownership with the School Department.
Dr. Snow Dockser agreed that tabling the article is a good idea but feels we
should ask for funds to conduct the traffic and geotechnical surveys.
Dr. Doherty indicated that the funds for the two studies are included in the cost of
the schematic design. He would ask Ms. DeLai if there are funds available in the
FY14 budget to cover the approximate cost of$45,000 to perform the studies.
Mr. Robinson suggested the possibility of asking to go directly to the voters and
ask for a debt exclusion vote.
Mrs. Webb moved, seconded by Mrs. Borawski,that Mrs.Borawski speak
on behalf of the School Committee to provide background and the genesis of
discussion from this evenings meeting and to work with the Chair to develop
the comments for Thursday evening and to vote to table the article. The
motion carried 5-0.
D. New Business
Approval of RMHS Field Trip
Mr. Robinson moved,seconded by Mrs.Borawski,to approve the annual
RMHS Spanish Exchange field trip for the 2014-15 school year.
Dr. Doherty reviewed the trip. This is a two part experience. The Spanish
students will be in Reading in the fall and our students will visit Spain in the
spring. Our students will stay with the families of the students that visit in the fall
and will be subject to all RMHS policies and rules.
The motion carried 5-0.
III. Routine Matters
a. Bills and Payroll (A)
The following warrants were circulated and signed.
Warrant S1442 4.10.14 $239,261.80
Warrant S1443 4.17.14 $199,608.00
Warrant S1444 4.24.14 $290,384.35
Warrant P1421 4.11.14 $1,372,906.26
Warrant 51422 4.25.14 $1,426,734.00
b. Approval of Minutes
Page 15
Mr.Robinson moved,seconded by Mrs. Webb,to approve the open session
minutes dated April 7,2014. The motion carried 5-0.
Mr. Robinson moved, seconded by Mrs. Webb,to approve the Financial
forum minutes dated April 9,2014. The motion carried 5-0.
c. Bids and Donations
Accept a Donation from RMHS Band Parents Organization
Mr. Robinson moved, seconded by Mrs. Webb, to accept the donation in the
amount of$10,400 to be used to support the Winter Guard and Percussion
Instructors with the balance of$2,700 to be used for next year's band camp.
The motion carried 5-0.
Calendar
IV.Information
V. Future Business
VI.Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 10:13 p.m.
NOTE: The minutes reflect the order as stated in the posted meeting agenda not
the order they occurred during the meeting.
Page 16
Jar 411s1:'02,, Town of Reading
I " Meeting Minutes
Board - Committee - Commission - Council:
School Committee
Date: 2014-05-06 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:
Linda Snow Dockser John Doherty, Superintendent
Hal Croft Craig Martin, Assistant Superintendent
Elaine Webb Mary DeLai, Assistant Superintendent
Jeanne Borawski Alison Elmer, Director of Student Services
Chris Caruso (arrived at 7:30 pm)
Chuck Robinson (arrived at 7:25 pm)
Andrea Nastri, Student Representative
Members - Not Present:
Conner Traugot, Student Representative
Others Present:
Bill Brown, resident
Nancy Docktor, resident
John Halsey, Board of Selectman
Debbie Butts, RISE Preschool Director
Joyce Camenker, RISE teacher
Erica Boran, RISE teacher
Katie Melanson, RISE teacher
Erica McNamara, RCASA
Julianne DeAngelis, RCASA
Tom Zaya, RMHS Assistant Principal
Sarah Lennon, RMHS Health Educator
Alex Webb, RCASA Youth Crew
Al Sylvia, Reading Chronicle
Minutes Respectfully Submitted By: John F. Doherty, Ed.D. Superintendent
Topics of Discussion:
I. Call to Order
Chair Croft called the School Committee to order at 7:01 p.m.
He reviewed the agenda, announced the meeting was being recorded and welcomed
guests.
Page I 1
A. Public Input(I)
Mr. Brown provided information on the Oakland Road property.
New Business (out of order)
RISE Presentation
Debbie Butts, RISE Preschool Director introduced her staff. She went on to
provide an overview of RISE. The Reading Integrated School Experience (RISE)
is the Reading Public Schools preschool program that provides an integrated
school experience for children age 3 —5. RISE is the first face that many families
meet as they begin their children's educational journey.
The RISE Preschool curriculum follows the Common Core standards and the
students are provided with Literacy,Mathematics and STEM lessons geared for
the preschool student. RISE also has implemented the standards based report card
which provides a clearer assessment of student learning.
Mrs. Camenker shared information on the implementation of the Multi-Tiered
System of Support(MTSS)as part of the district-wide initiative. Mrs. Camenker
stated that the RISE staff looked at the core values and developed a behavior
matrix for the RISE community. Using the RISE acronym they chose the areas of
respect, include, safe and effort and what each of these items looked like in
different areas of the preschool. The staff will work to finalize the matrix and
how to teach common behavior language. The plan is to roll the behavior matrix
out in the fall. It will be included in the parent handbook as well as in all areas of
the preschool.
Ms. Butts reviewed predictors for academic success for reading. The National
Panel for Reading has determined that students must be able to read by grade 3.
Oral language, alphabetic code and print awareness are literacy components that
need to begin in preschool and are linked to later learning,reading and academic
success. The RISE staff incorporates these skills into the everyday learning
through play, social skills, structured and designed activities.
Mrs. Boran shared information on preschool math and literacy assessments.
Individual Growth and Development Indicators (IGDI)uses data to assess student
growth. Areas addressed by the IGDI include alliteration, rhyming, sound
identification,picture naming and comprehension.
Mr. Robinson arrived at 7:25 p.m.
In addition, early numeracy assessment is also addressed in the areas of oral
counting, number naming, quantity comparison and one to one correspondence
counting.
Dr. Snow Dockser asked about homogeneous groupings.
Mrs. Boran shared that students do work with others on similar skill levels but the
students are continually being regrouped based on activities. Students also work
in heterogeneous groups.
Page 12
Mr. Croft asked if the paperwork to implement these initiatives is manageable.
Ms. Butts said the paperwork aids in student assessment and Mrs. Camenker
added that the staff is learning to use the IGDI at this point and will become easier
once the use becomes familiar.
Ms. Butts shared slides of students participating in the activities of a typical day.
Mr. Caruso arrived at 7:30 p.m.
RCASA Presentation
Dr. Doherty explained that there would be two presentations by RCASA. One
would be on "Understanding Opioid Abuse in Reading"and the other an update
on the Chemical Health Policy.
Ms. McNamara introduced those in attendance. She reviewed the history of
RCASA indicating that the program was founded as a result of 10 opioid related
deaths from 2003-2005. Since 2005, our community has lost an additional 13
residents to opioid deaths.
She shared that a large percentage of heroin users became addicted to pain
medication prior to switching to heroin. An opioid is in the family of drugs that
have a morphine-like effect. Opioids are generally available by prescription and
can be easily accessed from a family medicine cabinet. The cost of the pills is
high; prompting many users to switch to heroin which is available and much less
expensive.
Ms. McNamara went onto explain the progress RCASA has made to reduce
substance abuse using the Youth Risk Behavior Results as well as the use of
police logs to analyze data. She reviewed information,taken from police logs, on
suicide attempts and overdose calls received by the police. She broke the
information down by age and gender and pointed out the problem exists across all
age groups. It is a community problem. Police logs also point to other incidents
pertaining to substance abuse such as underage drinking, marijuana use, illegal
possession of pills, family members seeking help for loved ones they suspect of
substance abuse, adjustment issues when returning from rehab and assistance
dealing with behavioral concerns of family members dealing with substance
abuse.
Reading has been chosen to participate in a regional cluster funded by the state
with surrounding communities. The grant goals are to explore the consequences
of opioid use and the consumption of opioids. The cluster will support
communities on reducing the incidents of opioid overdoses, preventing first use
and actively support users move to recovery.
A deterrent to rehab treatment is the ability to pay for treatment. 97%of
substance abuse treatments are paid for through private insurance or self-pay.
Only 3%of substance abuse treatment is publically funded. Studies are also
showing that the average age of users is becoming younger. Most start on pills
and move onto heroin.
Page 13
As a result of the 2013 Youth Risk Behavior Survey it has become evident that
heroin use has increased at RMHS to a level of concern. Survey results have
provided evidence that a heroin user can be any student. Results indicate there
are students with good grades that use illegal substances. Students that are heroin
users are more likely to have suicidal thoughts and engage in risky behaviors.
Alex Webb,member of the RCASA Youth Crew,provided insight on the data
from a student's perspective. The RCASA staff shared the latest Reading YRBS
data with the Youth Crew. The Youth Crew reviewed the local and national data,
viewed an intervention episode on heroin use and"Heroin Rising: Cheap,
Addictive &Deadly" and shared the information with the board. Heroin is
readily accessible, cheap and has high purity. Mr. Webb shared that Reading's
location provides easy access due to the proximity to three major cities. Higher
purity heroin gets people addicted faster.
The Youth Crew brainstormed on heroin and the perceptions included the
following:
• Do we understand addiction,
• It can happen to anyone even if we don't believe it,
• Shame,
• mental health is easier to talk about compared to heroin use
• skeptical of youth at high school using heroin(just can't picture it)
• Heroin abuse is not mentioned in school.
Ms. McNamara continued discussing the stigma& health perceptions. She said it
is easier to deal with a physical ailment such as a broken bone than to deal with
substance abuse and mental health issues.
RCASA has been instrumental in initiating change and education programs in the
town and school district. They have conducted workshops, sponsored training for
staff and nurses at the high school, assisted in piloting a new health curriculum,
the Police Chief added a Narcotics Detective and were instrumental in revising
the Chemical Health Policy. They continue to be active partners with state and
local agencies,providing resources to families and trainings for staff.
RCASA continues to strive to educate, inform and communicate with the
community.
Dr. Snow Dockser thanked the board for all the work they have done.
Mrs. Webb understands that it is challenging to have families understand that this
issue affects the whole family.
Chemical Health Policy Update
Ms. McNamara thanked Ms. DeAngelis and Ms. Lennon for the work as part of
the Chemical Health Education Team.
Students that violate the Chemical Health Policy are required to participate in a
Chemical Health Education class. The 2 hour sessions are conducted monthly at
Page 14
the high school. The class focuses on substance abuse education,risk behavior,
individual accountability and responsibility.
Ms. Lennon provided an overview of the class. Students are required to write a
statement of accountability; what lead them to this place. She said the students
are angry and don't understand why they have to be in the class. As a group,the
class discusses life factors positive alternative opportunities and threats. As the
class progresses the students acknowledge that they made a poor choice. They are
given the tools to avoid making the poorer behavior choice to avoid being put in
that situation again. Ms. Lennon also reviews the Chemical Health Policy with
the students to be sure they understand the policy and they are able to see the
bigger picture including the consequences of their actions.
The majority of the participants are Reading Memorial High School students but
we do accommodate students that may be attending private and parochial schools.
We occasionally receive a referral from the Woburn Court. Since its inception the
program has had 126 referrals. Most of the violations involve underage drinking.
Mrs. Webb asked about parental feedback. Ms. McNamara said it has been
mostly positive.
Dr. Snow Dockser asked about the Coach's training. Mr. Zaya is actively
working with the coaches who are very supportive of the program. The coaches
care about the whole student-athlete. Students who violate the policy continue to
be part of the team and participate in practices.
Mr. Croft asked about students that have violated the policy and do not participate
in extracurricular activities.
Ms. McNamara said the building principal can recommend that a student
participate in the program.
Mr. Robinson asked if RCASA would be bringing in speakers similar to Chris
Herren. Ms. McNamara indicated that RCASA does not have the funds but have
been able to offer other events including the upcoming viewing of"Anonymous
People"being shown at the Woburn Showcase Cinema. The film deals with
addiction.
Ms. DeAngelis shared that RCASA continues to focus on people in recovery and
providing information to families. It is a message of perseverance.
Executive Session
The Chair shall declare that executive session is necessary to protect the
negotiating and litigation positions of the body.
Mr. Caruso moved, seconded by Mrs. Webb,to enter into executive session
to discuss strategy with respect to litigation, Collective Bargaining, School
Safety & Security and the approval of minutes and to return to open session
at approximately 9:45 p.m. The roll call vote was 6-0. Mrs. Webb,Mrs.
Borawski,Dr. Snow Dockser,Mr.Robinson,Mr. Croft and Mr. Caruso.
Page j5
The open session adjourned at 8:54 p.m.
The Chair called open session back to order at 9:57 p.m.
Due to the lateness of the hour the Superintendent suggested that the School
Committee amends the agenda to address the Appointment to the Human
Relations Advisory Committee,the Director of Finance and Operations Search
and accept the Donations and defer all other items to the next meeting.
Mrs Borawski moved, seconded by Mrs. Webb to amend the agenda as
suggested. The motion carried 6-0.
II. Recommended Procedure
B. New Business
Appointment to Human Relations Advisory Committee
Mr. Caruso moved, seconded by Mrs. Webb,to appoint Linda Snow Dockser
to the Human Relations Advisory Committee. The motion carried 6-0.
Director of Finance & Operations Search
Mr. Caruso moved,seconded by Mr. Robinson,to approve the screening
process and timeline for the Director of Finance and Operations Search.
Mrs. Borawski would like to look for a parent participant on the screening
committee that has a budget/finance background,perhaps one of the RPS budget
parents.
The vote on the original motion carried 6-0.
Mr. Caruso moved, seconded by Mr.Robinson,to nominate Mrs.Borawski
as the School Committee representative to the screening committee. The
motion carried 6-0.
III. Routine Matters
a. Bills and Payroll (A)
The following warrants were circulated and signed.
Warrant S1445 5.01.14 $32,148.26
b. Approval of Minutes
c. Bids and Donations
Mr. Caruso moved, seconded by Mr. Robinson,to accept a donation
in the amount of$533.33 from the Wood End PTO to be used to
purchase library supplies. The motion carried 6-0.
Page 16
Mr. Caruso moved,seconded by Mrs. Borawski,to accept the
donation from Friends of Reading Track in the amount of$1,000 to
be used to support a coaching assistant position. The motion carried
6-0.
Calendar
IV.Information
V. Future Business
VI.Adjournment
Mr. Robinson moved, seconded by Mr. Caruso to adjourn. The motion carried 6-0.
The meeting adjourned at 10:13 p.m.
NOTE: The minutes reflect the order as stated in the posted meeting agenda not
the order they occurred during the meeting.
Page 17
2013-2014 School Committee Meeting Date
School Presenting @ Meeting Office Hours
May 19th School Committee School Choice Snow Dockser&Caruso
June 2nd School Committee Webb & Robinson
June 8th RMHS Graduation
June 14th Friends and Family Day
June 16th School Committee
5.15.14
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.
2014-2015 School Committee Meeting Date
July 14th School Committee Office Hours
August 25th School Committee- New Teacher Introductions
Sept.8th School Committee Office Hours Joint Meeting with BOS
Sept. 16th State Primary
Sept.22nd School Committee
Oct. 1st RCASA Annual Meeting
Oct.6th School Committee Office Hours
Oct.8th FinForum 7:30 p.m. Sr.Center
Oct. 20th School Committee
Nov.3rd School Committee Office Hours
Nov.4th State Election
Nov. 10th Town Meeting
Nov. 13th Town Meeting
Nov.17th Town Meeting
Nov.20th Town Meeting
Nov. 24th School Committee
Dec. 1st School Committee Office Hours
Dec. 15th School Committee
Jan.8th School Committee Office Hours FY2016 Budget
Jan. 12th School Committee FY2016 Budget
Jan.lSth School Committee FY2016 Budget
Jan. 22nd School Committee FY2016 Budget-Public Hearing
Jan.26th School Committee FY2016 Budget-Vote
Feb.9th School Committee Office Hours
Feb. 23rd School Committee
March 9th School Committee Office Hours
March 23rd School Committee
April 6th School Committee Office Hours
April 7th Local Election
April 27th Town Meeting
April 28th School Committee
April 30th Town Meeting
May 4th Town Meeting
May 7th Town Meeting
May 11th School Committee Office Hours School Choice
May 18th School Committee
June 1st School Committee Office Hours
June 15th School Committee
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.