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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2014-06-23 School Committee Packet School Committee Meeting June 23 , 2014 Superintendent's Conference Room Open Session 7:00 P.M. 4 Town of Reading 1 ! ti; ,I Meeting Posting with Agenda S � Board - Committee - Commission - Council: School Committee Date: 2014-06-23 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 7:00 p.m. I Call to Order II Recommended Procedure A. Public Input(I) B. Reports 1. Students 2. Liaison 3. Superintendent 4. Sub-Committee 5. Assistant Superintendents 6. Director of Student Services C. Continued Business 1. FY15 Budget Transfers (A) D. New Business 1. Understanding Disabilities Presentation (I) 2. PARCC Presentation and Vote(A) E. Routine Matters 1. Bills and Payroll (A) 2. Minutes (A) June 2,2014 June 9, 2014 June 12, 2014 3. Bids and Donations(A) Award of Contract—Masonry Repair Award of Contract—Refrigerated Cargo Van Accept Two Donations from the Friends of Reading Wrestling 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 r.- ^_ ?' Town of Reading•i._ 1 Meeting Posting with Agenda Accept a Donation to the RMHS Library Accept a Donation from the Parker PTO Accept Donations to the Parker Music Program Accept Two Donations to the Killam School Accept Two Anonymous Donations 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 r 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 MEMORANDUM To: Reading School Committee From: Martha Sybert CC: John Doherty Date: June 22, 2014 RE: FY14 Budget Status Update At the Reading School Committee meeting on June 23rd, we will provide the Committee with an update on the status for the Fiscal Year 2014 budget. Attached you will find a report showing the budget status update as of June 30, 2014. Most of the remaining expenses have now been encumbered, including end of year supply and material purchases, and repair contracts. Summer salaries for our teaching staff will be encumbered in the next week. We anticipate at this point only incidental expenses. For the most part, surpluses or deficits in individual school accounts, regular day or special education, are primarily from turnover savings or expense. The large surplus in the district-wide special education budget represents savings from unanticipated out of district placements that either settled for less than budgeted or remain unsettled at this time. These funds will be returned to the town and may be available to create a Stabilization Fund should the Committee elect to pursue that option. The deficit in Technology is a function of the IT audit and additional salaries for the staff for the various projects this fiscal year. In order to allow for all cost centers to close the year with a positive balance, we will be requesting that the School Committee approve the following transfers: • Transfer the sum of$25,000 from the facilities cost center to the district-wide programs cost center. • Transfer the sum of$18,000 from the facilities cost center to the administration cost center. The Reading Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race,color,sex,gender identity,religion,national origin,sexual orientation,age or disability. N O) 01 r n N In O on N V1 t0 O1 n H 01 CO M .-1 n il. N N H to Al H o a to 01 V CO 0) (Cl tD tD O O N M tD O 0) H V tD CO 1-1 N n CO m a Cr U) CO O O N N V) Cr N N CO H ` h H O H n V 1A CO CD C) n N O N H O) 0) U) • 01 v1 N M 00 N N H H H .N-1 t}' TF vi vi i..i m N O) a M P pj 10 W ,2 ■� " H N1 '7 In N c 7 m m h H N u) LO M 01 ID H N N 01 LA 01 CO CO N CO U) N ct n n. U) R HI N O Sr N LA 00 00 CO CO N 11,0 H CO at H M H tD 0O 0 L!) 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C) CO H NJ LO N 01 O N CO O Tr H CO .0 H o N 0 0 'a CO C 0) LA Cr M H 01 LD h 01 n LD 00 N H h CO 01 N tY V U) CD W 01 LO Cr N Q 3 M N N N .1 e4 N M n N Q p Oi N Cr m a m N H m Y LL C C CO O V LO 0 u C W CO Op c W M CO 3 3 g 13 13 E en o o C'A 7co 0 O O co O O 3 N u > 7 2 L +, 0 . N .c CO W m '� zN CA iZ h 3 rt7 O A OO. Y W 4 O •3 4.) p G i A 0 -- m 13 .- co U C O CO LM. C a L O O C0 VI 7 Q C a N 34-. L- 1-) ,-. - 001.- 40 N > O 05 V N N O 4 4r L CO p m m W Yo D2 o m m W C s tJ i S d N D ' V O O Q 2 I Q 1- U) Y la CA I- I- John F.Doherty,Ed. D. Mary C. DeLai Superintendent of Schools Assistant Superintendent for Finance and Administration 82 Oakland Road Reading,MA 01867 AdminCraig 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: June 19, 2014 TOPIC: Understanding Disabilities Understanding Disabilities, Inc. is proud to announce that it has received a $100,000 grant to create an innovative curriculum for use in teaching disability awareness to Reading school children. The new curriculum will be unique in that it provides children informational tools to develop positive relationships with their peers at the time they first need it, when they are becoming aware of classmates with learning differences. Children in early grades will be taught generally about these differences, with a focus on friendship. Lessons will continue through the years adding age-appropriate information. By middle school, students will have been presented with information about disabilities, society's reactions to differences, and thought-provoking messages about understanding and respect. Representatives from the Understanding Disabilities board will be at our meeting on Monday evening. 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 f 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: June 19, 2014 RE: State Assessment Decision for 2014-15 School Year In 2013,the Massachusetts Board of Elementary and Secondary Education voted to approve a 2 Year"test drive" of the PARCC state assessment system with a goal of taking a full vote in the fall of 2015 on whether or not to adopt the PARCC or to go with another PARCC-type assessment. This two year"test drive" included a field test of the PARCC with a sample of students during the 2013-14 school year and operationally having entire school districts take the PARCC test during the 2014-15 school year. As you know,this past spring the Reading Public Schools were 1 of 345 school districts that participated in the PARCC Field Test. Approximately 81,000 students in 1050 Massachusetts schools participated. In Reading, 7 of our 8 schools participated in the field test. Next year, as part of the transition to the next generation assessment, each school district will need to make a choice as to whether they will take the PARCC state assessment or the MCAS assessment during the 2014- 15 school year. Regardless of the decision, all school districts will continue to take MCAS in the following grades and subjects: High School Science, Grade 10 ELA, Grade 10 Math and Grades 5 and 8 Science. I have had several discussions about the state assessments with our District Leadership Team, Technology Staff who assisted in the administration of the PARCC and students who took the PARCC. In addition, I have attended four sessions with DESE officials on this topic. Based on all of the information that I have gathered, I am recommending to the School Committee that the Reading Public Schools take the PARCC state assessment next year instead of the MCAS. This decision was fully supported by both the District Leadership Team and the Technology Staff. My rationale for recommending the PARCC is as follows: 1. The PARCC assessment is more aligned to Massachusetts Curriculum Framework standards and instructional practices than the MCAS. 2. The PARCC assessment is technology-based and will help prepare our students for future generation assessments which could begin as early as the 2015-16 school year. 3. We have the technology infrastructure and hardware to successfully administer the PARCC. The Reading Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race,color,sex,gender identity,religion,national origin,sexual orientation,age or disability. 4. The accessibility features for students with accommodations are embedded into the PARCC online assessment, making it much easier to use with student who have disabilities. 5. In a state survey of students who took the PARCC assessment, students preferred to take the online version of the PARCC instead of the paper version of the MCAS. In discussions that we had with our Reading students,their thoughts were consistent with the state survey. 6. Districts who take the PARCC will be held harmless on school and district accountability ratings for the 2014-15 school year. In other words, a school or district's accountability level will either stay the same or improve from 2014, but it cannot decline. Schools will continue to receive student scores which will be available to parents. 7. In a meeting that I recently attended with Commissioner Mitchell Chester, he indicated that regardless of the decision that is made by the Board of Education in the Fall of 2015, the MCAS as we know it will be replaced with an online test that is more aligned to the Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks. For additional information on the PARCC, please refer to the DESE website at http://www.doe.mass.edu/parcc/. If you have any questions,please do not hesitate to 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: Mary C. DeLai DATE: June 18, 2014 RE: Award of Masonry Concrete Repair Contract At November's Subsequent Town Meeting,the sum of$28,000 was appropriated to perform repairs to the concrete block columns at Reading Memorial High School. In the spring, a comprehensive investigation was performed in order to prepare bid specifications and drawings to properly describe the scope of work to potential bidders. That investigation revealed that the damage was far more extensive than originally anticipated. As a result, a plan was developed to divide the work into two phases. While the amount appropriated in November is insufficient to address both phases, in order to ensure consistency in the work, the project was bid with the intent to contract with one vendor who would complete Phase 1 immediately upon award of the contract. The bid documents state that Phase 2 of the project will only proceed if adequate funds are appropriated at some future date. It would be our intent to seek this funding at Subsequent Town Meeting in November, 2014. Subject to the appropriation of adequate funding, the contractor would be authorized to proceed with Phase 2 at that time. In compliance with MGL Chapter 149, an invitation to bid was issued in May and we received bids from four firms. The bid results are summarized below. Firm Phase 1 Phase 2 TOTAL MJS Construction 22,800.00 30,800.00 $ 53,600.00 JJS Universal 28,000.00 28,000.00 $ 56,000.00 Capuano Construction 40,250.00 33,721.00 $ 73,971.00 Chapman Waterproofing 53,400.00 62,230.00 $115,630.00 As you can see from these results, MJS Construction was the lowest responsive and responsible bidder. References checked included Manchester by the Sea Public Library, R. Gallant, and Cerquiera Construction and all were very favorable. Therefore, we are requesting that the School Committee authorize the Superintendent to enter into an agreement with MJS Construction to perform masonry repairs at Reading Memorial High School. 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: Martha Sybert DATE: June 18, 2014 RE: Recommendation for Award of Contract In March, it was discovered that the current food services van would not pass inspection and had to be replaced. The funding for this project was approved at the April Town Meeting and $32,000 was appropriated for this purchase and transferred to a capital line in the School Department Budget. In June, in compliance with Chapter 30B, we issued an invitation for bid for a Refrigerated Cargo Van. There was one responsive and responsible bid submitted by Stoneham Motor Company. References enclosed in the bid package were checked and all gave excellent reviews for this vendor. The references contacted were Town of Andover and Billerica School Department, each recently purchased refrigerated cargo vans. The final cost of the van is $32,300. The incremental $300 will be funded from the Food Services revolving fund. Therefore, at your meeting on June 23, 2014, we request the School Committee vote to award the contract of$32,300 for a Refrigerated Cargo Van to Stoneham Motor Company of Stoneham, MA. 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 r- Reading,MA 01867 Craig 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: June 19, 2014 TOPIC: Accept a Donation to Reading Memorial High School Please find attached a copy of a memorandum from Mr. Steven Perry, Friends of Reading Wrestling President outlining a donation in the amount of$4,500 to be used to support two coaching assistants for the 2014-15 wrestling season.. At our meeting on Monday evening I will ask the School Committee to accept this donation. If you have any questions, please contact me. The Reading Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race,color,sex,gender identity,religion,national origin,sexual orientation,age or disability. June 10,2014 To:Reading School Committee From:Steven Perry,President-Friends of Reading Wrestling(FoRW) Subject: FoRW Funding and Support for Wrestling Coaches in 2014-15 Season Reading School Committee members, The Friends of Reading Wrestling booster organization is again budgeting for and prepared to fund two assistant wrestling coaches for the upcoming 2014-15 RMHS Wrestling Season. We have budgeted$4500 for the two positions for the upcoming season,this is level funding with our funding for coaches in the 2013-14 wrestling season. We want to be sure we are aligned with RMHS policies and procedures in funding these positions for the coming year. A check for$4500.00 is attached. We are requesting approval by the Reading School Committee and the Reading School Administration of this donation and plan. It is our intent that Coach Murphy be given as much as flexibility in hiring those candidates he feels best meet the requirements of the program and this coming years team,within the guidelines established by the Reading School system. We appreciate your support and would appreciate your approval of this donation,so that Tom Zaya can initiate the hiring process for assistant wrestling coaches in the upcoming season. Thank ,. ven erry On Behalf of Friends of Reading Wrestling Cc:Tom Zaya,Assistant Principal RMHS Craig Murphy,Reading Wrestling Coach Paula Tucci,Treasurer—Friends of Reading Wrestling 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: June 19, 2014 TOPIC: Accept a Donation to Reading Memorial High School Please find attached a copy of a memorandum from Mr. Steven Perry, Friends of Reading Wrestling President outlining a donation in the amount of$7,446 to be used to cut and refurbish the mat in the wrestling room. At our meeting on Monday evening I will ask the School Committee to accept this donation. If you have any questions, please contact me. The Reading Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race,color,sex,gender identity,religion,national origin,sexual orientation,age or disability. 1 0, June 10,2014 To:Reading School Committee From:Steven Perry,President-Friends of Reading Wrestling(FoRW) Subject:FoRW Funding for Refurbishing Mat for the RMHS Wrestling Room Reading School Committee Members, The mat in the wrestling room is in need of refurbishment and Coach Murphy as secured an estimate of $7,446.00 dollars to cut and refurbish the mat. This cost is inclusive of the freight costs.The Friends of Reading Wrestling booster organization would like to make a donation to the Reading School System on behalf of the RMHS Wrestling team for$7,446.00 to have the mat refurbished,a check in that amount is attached. 1 We are requesting approval of the Reading School System administration and the Reading School Committee to accept this donation.The intent is to have the mat refurbished over the summer,so it is ready for the 2014-2015 wrestling season. Therefore,we are requesting immediate approval so that Coach Murphy and Tom Zaya can initiate the appropriate payment processes to complete this project. Please let me know if anything else is required from the Friends of Reading Wrestling. Tha, r-. , , . teven 'err On Behalf of Friends of Reading Wrestling Cc:Tom Zaya,Assistant Principal RMHS Craig Murphy,Reading Wrestling Coach Paula Tucci,Treasurer—Friends of Reading Wrestling 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: June 19, 2014 TOPIC: Accept a Donation to Reading Memorial High School Please find attached a copy of a memorandum from RMHS principal Kevin Higginbottom outlining a donation from the David A. Beers Fund. This fund supported an annual scholarship given to an RMHS senior at graduation. The term of the scholarship has come to an end and it is the wish of the family to donate the remaining amount to the RMHS library. At our meeting on Monday evening I will ask the School Committee to accept this donation. If you have any questions,please contact me. The Reading Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race,color,sex,gender identity,religion,national origin,sexual orientation,age or disability. OFRF ;. C'} I r; n l John F.Doherty,Ed.D. READING MEMORIAL HIGH SCHOOL Kevin Higginbottom Superintendent Principal Michael R.Scarpitto 62 Oakland Road,Reading,Massachusetts 01867 Laura Olsen Tel:781-944-8200 Fax:781-942-5435 Thomas J.Zaya Website:http://www.edline_net/pages/Reading_HS Assistant Principals TO: Dr.John F. Doherty,Superintendent of Schools FROM: Kevin J.Higginbottom,Principal DATE: June 23,2014 SUBJECT: Gift for the RMHS Library Please accept a donation in the amount of$186.92 from the David A. Beers Fund. The donation is to be for use in the RMHS Library. Please contact me if you have any questions. Thank you. John F. Doherty, Ed.D. Mary C. DeLai Superintendent of Schools q_ 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: June 19, 2014 TOPIC: Accept a Donation to the Parker Middle School Please find attached a memorandum from Parker principal Doug Lyons outlining a donation from the Parker Middle School PTO in the amount of$5,000 to be used to support the purchase of technology. At our meeting on Monday evening I will ask the School Committee to accept this donation. If you have any questions, please contact me. The Reading Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race,color,sex,gender identity,religion,national origin,sexual orientation,age or disability. .AI.'ii R ti. I' I1II)I)LF ti(I 1IOOI. Adr I .`;1 I _ I .L . , https:.www.edline.netpagesWalter S Parker Middle School • MemO To Dr. John Doherty, Superintend-nt of Schools From: Doug Lyons, Principal �� 41 CC: Brendan Norton,Assis r: •cipal Date: June 6, 2014 Re: PTO Donation W.S. Parker Middle School has received a donation of$5,000.00 from The Parker PTO to be used for technology. Please accept this gift for the benefit of Parker students. 1 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: June 19, 2014 TOPIC: Accept a Donation to the Parker Middle School Please find attached a memorandum from Parker principal Doug Lyons outlining a donation from the Freuhauf family to the Parker Middle School to be used to support the purchase of instruments. At our meeting on Monday evening I will ask the School Committee to accept this donation. If you have any questions, please contact me. The Reading Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race,color,sex,gender identity,religion,national origin,sexual orientation,age or disability. ti. l' \!(KElt \111)I)LE ti('IIOOL �vla,- I Iiuu< ( Vii, ��►a https:gwww.edline.net�pagesWalter S Parker Middle_School M e mo To: Dr. John Doherty, Superintendent of Schools From: Doug Lyons, Principal CC: Brendan Norton,Assistant Principal Date: June 11, 2014 Re: School Instrument Donations W.S. Parker Middle School has received a donation of $50.00 from the Fruehauf family to be used to purchase school instruments. Please accept this gift for the benefit of Parker students. 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: June 19, 2014 TOPIC: Accept a Donation to the Parker Middle School Please find attached a memorandum from Parker principal Doug Lyons outlining several donations from to the Parker Middle School to be used to support the instrumental music program. At our meeting on Monday evening I will ask the School Committee to accept this donation. If you have any questions, please contact me. The Reading Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race,color,sex,gender identity,religion,national origin,sexual orientation,age or disability. , v r . W ER S. PARKER_ 11, )_)IE SCHOOL 4 1 I uL1,1, `-41,,,,,t. P ,Im.2 NL»•;i,1 1,-it, o 1 (,,i a atos. 1 .'„I i-1 ;, I ,\ iS l „1.'_yiJl)ti, t ` dline.net/pagesWalter_SParker Middle_Sc hool Memo To: Dr. John Doherty, Superintendent of Schools From: Doug Lyons, Principal CC: Brendan Norton,Assistant Principal • Date: June 17, 2014 Re: School Instrument Donations W.S. Parker Middle School has received the following donations. Please accept these gifts for the benefit of Parker students. 1.A Pearl Snare Drum, valued at$360.00, donated by: Vladimir& Rebecca Liberman 50 Pratt Street, Reading 2. $250.00 to the Parker School Instrument Fund, donated by: Robert Shapiro 48 Park Ave, Reading 3. $1,000.00 Charitable Grant to the Parker School Instrument Fund, donated by: The O'Connor Family Fund John& Heidi O'Connor 100 Van Norden Road, Reading 4. $100 to the Parker School Instrument Fund, donated by: Mary Brickett 68 Grover Street, Everett, MA 02149 5. $125.00 to the Parker School Instrument Fund, donated by: James Satterthwaite 8 Hunt Street, Reading II 1 John F. Doherty,Ed. D. Mary C. DeLai Superintendent of Schools 3 Assistant Superintendent for Finance and Administration 82 Oakland Road 1 _ Reading,MA 01867 Craig Martin Phone:781-944-5800 Assistant Superintendent Fax:781-942-9149 = ;.E.7 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: June 19, 2014 TOPIC: Accept a Donation to the Killam School Please find attached a memorandum from Killam principal Cathy Giles outlining a donation from the Frazier family to the Killam School to be used to at the school's discretion to support the Media Center. At our meeting on Monday evening I will ask the School Committee to accept this donation. If you have any questions, please contact me. The Reading Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race,color,sex,gender identity,religion,national origin,sexual orientation,age or disability. 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: June 19, 2014 TOPIC: Accept a Donation to the Killam School Please find attached a memorandum from Killam principal Cathy Giles outlining a donation from the Killam PTO to be used to purchase laptops to support the students of the Killam School. At our meeting on Monday evening I will ask the School Committee to accept this donation. If you have any questions, please contact me. The Reading Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race,color,sex,gender identity,religion,national origin,sexual orientation,age or disability. Reading Public Schools John F. Doherty, Ed.D.,Superintendent Craig Martin,Assistant Superintendent Mary C. Delai,Assistant Superintendent for Finance and Administration J. W. Killam Elementary School 333 Charles ccreet•Reading, MA 01867 (781)999-7831•Fax(781)992-9186 Catherine A.Giles,principal A T.R.R.F.C.C. Place to Bel June 13, 2014 Dr. John F. Doherty,Superintendent Reading Public School 82 Oakland Road Reading, MA 01867 Dear Dr. Doherty, Please accept on behalf of the Killam School two donations from the J. W. Killam School PTO of checks in the amount of $2,000.00 for the purchase of laptops and $250.00 from Mrs. Corinne Frazier to be used at the discretion of the Killam School. Sincerely, eArLesi:6441 :2 Catherine A. Giles Principal C: School Committee Members C: Letters to J. W. Killam School PTO Mrs. Corinne Frazier 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 MEMORANDUM TO: Reading School Committee FROM: Mary C. DeLai CC: John F. Doherty DATE: June 20, 2014 RE: Anonymous Donation We are pleased to inform the Committee that we recently receive an anonymous donation of$5,000 to support initiatives or programs that help students to be successful in their learning. We are requesting that the School Committee approve the acceptance of this generous donation. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to 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 SchoolsAssistant 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 MEMORANDUM TO: Reading School Committee FROM: Mary C. DeLai CC: John F. Doherty DATE: June 20, 2014 RE: Anonymous Donation We are pleased to inform the Committee that we recently receive an anonymous donation of$6,000 to support the World of Difference Program at the middle level. We are requesting that the School Committee approve the acceptance of this generous donation. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to 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. ,.,e,-"- i.3,:rt, . .iii Town of Reading :: ; I Meeting Minutes Y 1 •:4-4,1-,,,,,-- - ii Board - Committee - Commission - Council: School Committee Date: 2014-06-02 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 Chris Caruso Chuck Robinson Members - Not Present: Alison Elmer, Director of Student Services Andrea Nastri, Student Representative Others Present: Al Sylvia, Reading Chronicle John Arena, Board of Selectmen Dan Ensminger, Board of Selectmen Lori Hodin, Human Relations Advisory Committee Monique Pillow Gnanaratnam, Human Relations Advisory Committee Nancy Docktor, resident 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 7:04 p.m. He reviewed the agenda, announced the meeting was being recorded and welcomed guests. New Business(out of order) Human Relations Advisory Committee Presentation Superintendent Doherty introduced Lori Hodin to present the awards to the winners of the Human Relations Advisory Committee Art Contest. The contest theme was "Create a work of art that shows a community where no one feels left out. Through Page I 1 your art work imagine Reading as a place where all are welcome. Our goal is to promote the Town of Reading as a place that celebrates all of its community members, because diversity enriches our lives." Ms. Hodin thanked Rotary for their support and funding of this annual event. Ms. Pillow Gnanaratnam announced the winners and presented the students with their prizes. Elementary school winners were Maria Grguravic and Caitlin McKenna, both students at the Killam School. The winners from the middle schools were Amy Xu and Rachel Shurland from the Parker Middle School and Megan Coram from the Coolidge Middle School. Ms. Coram has won this contest three years in a row. Timothy Kwan and Abryahna Deguerre were the winners at the high school level. Recognition of Staff Dr. Doherty explained that each year we recognized members of our staff that have achieved milestones which include Professional Teacher Status, 10, 20, 30+years of service and retirees. He asked Parker principal Doug Lyons to present the awards to his staff that included: CAIAZZA GAIL 10 CRISTI LEAH 10 JONES TAMMY 10 FERRAZZANI ROBYN 20 KALMAKIS SUSAN 20 BARNETT JACOB PTS BOOTE KIMBERLY PTS LORD REBECCA PTS LUSKIN LAUREN PTS PELLETIER TAYLOR PTS JORDAN LORI Retirement Next to present was Coolidge principal Sarah Marchant. Coolidge honorees included: FRIBERG CHRISTINE 10 HESLIN JACKELYN 10 MATHESON NANCY 10 STEINHAUSER CHRISTINE 10 GRANT MARCIA 20 MCCARTHY JOHN 20 NADEAU PAMELA 20 MACLEAN E.LEWIS 35+ BRUNO ANDREA Retirement BURTON MARK Retirement Killam principal Cathy Giles presented to the following staff members: HOTCHKISS MELISSA 10 TRITES ERLINE 10 MACMILLAN KATHLEEN 30 Page 12 GALDO DANIELA PTS OCKERBLOOM ALISON PTS KASPARIAN LYNNE Retirement Birch Meadow Eric Sprung recognized his staff which included: BECKMAN PATRICIA 10 THURNAUER MAUREEN 10 TUCKER DANIELLE 10 CASAVANT CAROLE PTS MCCRACKEN PATRICK PTS STROB KELLY PTS Joshua Eaton principal Karen Feeney recognized her staff which included: AMMENDOLIA KATHLEEN 10 CALLAN MICHELLE 10 CARREGAL JODY 10 MANNA ANNE 10 MERRILL JANE 10 HOPKINSON MICHELLE PTS DOHERTY PATRICIA Retirement RISE Preschool Director Debbie Butts presented awards to her staff which included: MAKRYS DEBORAH 10 MCCORMICK CAMILLE 10 TIERNEY KATHLEEN 10 WHELAN KATHERINE 10 RMHS principal Kevin Higginbottom present awards to his staff which included: ALLARD MARY 10 BUONO FRANK 10 DEE JANET 10 LACASSE JULIE 10 ORESCOVICH LAURA 10 RADVANY MICHAEL 10 DUNN LYNN 20 SHIELDS PATRICIA 20 MOORE MARTHA 30 CORY ANNEMARIE PTS DALBY ELIZABETH PTS DECOFF JENNIFER PTS FERRANTI ERIKA PTS FULLER SARAH PTS RICHARDSON LEIA PTS Page 13 Wood End principal Joanne King recognized her staff which included: DIMAMBRO PAULA 10 JORDAN ISABELLA 10 LEAHY DEBORAH 20 STEIGER MELISSA PTS Ms. DeLai recognized the following staff: MORELLO KRISTIN Food Service 10 KEENAN WILLIAM Facilities 30 GOODWIN CINDY Food Service 20 Dr. Doherty presented awards to the following staff: DELAI MARY Central Office 10 FEENEY KAREN Joshua Eaton 10 KING JOANNE Wood End 10 LYONS DOUGLAS Parker 10 Chair Croft congratulated all that were recognized this evening and feels it is important to hold this event each year. Superintendent Doherty thanked Elizabeth Conway and Kristyn Cohen for coordinating this effort. Chair Croft called a brief recess at 8:47 p.m. The meeting was called back to order at 8:52 p.m. A. Public Input(I) There was no public input. B. Reports Students Sub-Committee Mrs. Borawski reported on the first meeting of the Director of Finance and Operations Search Committee. The Search Committee has developed questions and will interview candidates on Thursday. Dr. Snow Dockser reported on the Samantha's Harvest Road race this past weekend. She thanked all the volunteers that helped out and encouraged runners to keep going. Mrs. Webb reported on the recent RCASA Board meeting. The Board discussed expanding the efforts for community outreach. They also discussed the importance of getting the message out regarding social host liability. Page 14 Superintendent Dr. Doherty stated that the senior activities are in full swing. The prom was held last week and the kids had a great time. The senior cruise and all night party, class day and the baccalaureate are coming up this week culminating with graduation on Sunday. It is an exciting time for the seniors. Dr. Doherty reported that he will present information on the PARCC testing program at the meeting on June 23rd. The School Committee will need to take action at that time to decide if the district opts to administer the PARCC or MCAS testing in the spring of 2015. C. Continued Business Director of Finance & Operations Qualities Mrs. Borawski shared that she had Dr. Snow Dockser's list of qualities and shared them with the Search Committee. Mrs. Webb would like to have someone that is willing to be a student of the position, staying current in the field and all facets therein. She would also like a person that is always looking for new ways to improve their skill set including networking. Collaboration with the town side is also an important quality to ensure that the relationship that has been nurtured continues to grow. Mr. Robinson would like an individual that can look at the big picture and how the numbers relate. Dr. Snow Dockser would like to have an individual that will continue to exhibit a truly transparent budget development process and to understand the needs of the schools. Mr. Croft asked Ms. DeLai what qualities she would look for if she was hiring a Director of Finance and Operations. Ms. DeLai said gone are the days when Business Managers relied on the use of spreadsheets alone. She feels the position has an educational aspect and is evaluated with a rubric similar to that of educators. Early Childhood Center Update & Discussion Dr. Doherty reviewed the next steps and the make-up of the proposed working group. This proposed working group will be made up of a diverse group of members from town, education and community members. An invitation will be extended to the entire community to participate as a member of the working group. Members of the original working group will also have the opportunity to participate as well. Once the working group has been selected they will meet to consider the preschool and kindergarten needs. They will review the current options as well as explore other possible options. Page 15 A geotechnical study will begin in the next few weeks on the Oakland Road site. A traffic study will also be done in the fall when school starts to allow for accurate data collection. The group will also need to develop a communication strategy. Dr. Snow Dockser asked if there are resources available to explore possible new options and asked if it would be possible to televise the working group meetings. Dr. Doherty said there are limited resources to explore new options and believes we have a lot of information available to us from the work done by the current working group. Mrs. Webb feels that when selecting the working group,the members should have a diverse skill set to make up for the limited additional resources. Mr. Caruso would like to thank the original working group for their time and commitment to the process and asked what the impact would be if a decision on an option was not made in time for the November Town Meeting. Dr. Doherty said decisions regarding early childhood education will need to be made in the early fall prior to the budget development process. Mr. Robinson feels a discussion needs to be held to determine if we are in a position to offer free full day kindergarten at this point and use some of the revenue to offset the construction costs of an early childhood center. Ms. DeLai indicated we would not be able to use tuition funds to offset the construction costs. Mr. Croft feels the community should be updated every couple of weeks on the progress of the working group. Following up on Mr. Croft's point, Dr. Snow Dockser wants to be sure all groups are targeted using sources other than the newspapers. Mrs. Borawski pointed out that the new working group would continue the process begun by the original working group. Mr. Arena asked if the School Committee was performing any kind of gap analysis after the Town Meeting discussion to address the concerns. Mrs. Webb said the School Committee had an extensive discussion regarding the concerns brought up by Town Meeting at their meeting after Town Meeting. Mr. Robinson reinforced that we cannot rush the process and need to get comprehensive information to be able to present to Town Meeting and the community. Mr. Caruso moved, seconded by Mr. Robinson,to accept the Early Childhood Working Group membership as outlined in the Superintendent's memorandum dated June 2,2014. Page 16 Mrs. Borawski made a friendly amendment, seconded by Mr. Caruso,to strike the word November and have the memo read; "Be prepared to present to Town Meeting a proposed solution.....". The motion carried 6-0. Mrs.Borawski made a friendly amendment,seconded by Mrs. Webb,to change the name to Early Childhood Education Space Needs Working Group. The motion carried 6-0. Mr. Caruso made a friendly amendment,seconded by Mrs. Webb,to add to the membership list the following: 10. The group will be chaired by a School Committee member. The motion carried 6-0. The vote on the original motion as amended carried 6-0. Superintendent's Evaluation Timeline & Process The Superintendent reviewed the process and pointed out that the whole process will be done in open session. He reviewed his Annual Educator Plan which includes updates on his goals that were presented earlier in the year. School Committee members are asked to prepare the End-of-Cycle Summative Report and send it to Mrs. Webb by June 17t ,who will compile the scores and create a final evaluation. He will then meet with School Committee members individually to discuss the draft evaluation. After the individual meeting, School Committee members will make changes if necessary and complete the evaluation. All evaluation documents should be submitted to Mrs. Webb by July 7th at which point she will complete the final report. The school Committee will review and vote on the Superintendent's Evaluation at their meeting on July 21St II. Recommended Procedure D. New Business Friend& Family Day Mr. Caruso suggested the School Committee provide information for the public suggestion lists of accomplishments,the high school brochure and perhaps information on the Early Childhood Center. Mrs. Webb, Mrs. Borawski and Dr. Snow Dockser will not be able to attend due to prior commitments. Dr. Doherty suggested participation by the board at the Town Street Faire in September. Mr. LeLacheur arrived at 8:54 p.m. III. Routine Matters a. Bills and Payroll (A) Page 17 The following warrants were circulated and signed. Warrant S 1448 5.22.14 $348,768.28 Warrant S1449 5.29.14 $164,857.46 Warrant P1424 5.23.14 $1,378,944.28 b. Approval of Minutes c. Bids and Donations Mr. Caruso moved,seconded by Mr. Robinson,to accept the donation from the RMHS PTO in the amount of$3,495 to be used to purchase student agendas for the 2014-15 school year.The motion carried 6-0. Mr. Caruso moved,seconded by Mr. Robinson,to accept the donation from the Joshua Eaton PTO in the amount of$6,780 to be used to purchase Ipads and Ipod Touches for the students of Joshua Eaton. The motion carried 6-0. d. Approval of Minutes Mr. Caruso moved,seconded by Mr. Robinson,to approve the open session minutes dated May 19,2014. Dr. Snow Dockser asked that the portion of her report referring to the girls lacrosse game reflect that she was impressed by the passion, stamina and good sportsmanship displayed by the girls and that they won the Middlesex League Championship. The motion as amended carried 6-0. Calendar IV.Information Dr. Doherty presented Mr. Croft with a chair in recognition of his last meeting and service to the School Committee. He thanked Mr. Croft for being a strong advocate and supporter of the Reading Public Schools and wished him well. Mr. Croft said he enjoyed his tenure on the School Committee and it was a difficult decision to make. He enjoyed the process. V. Future Business VI.Adjournment Executive Session The Chair shall declare that executive session is necessary to protect the negotiating position of the body. Page I 8 Mr. Caruso moved,seconded by Mrs. Borawski,to enter into executive session to discuss strategy with respect to Collective Bargaining,and the approval of minutes and not to return to open session. The roll call vote was 6-0. Mrs. Webb,Mrs. Borawski,Dr. Snow Dockser,Mr. Robinson,Mr. Croft and Mr. Caruso. The meeting adjourned at 9:00 p.m. NOTE: The minutes reflect the order as stated in the posted meeting agenda not the order they occurred during the meeting. Page I 9 fie_ i Town of Reading y r7 w I Meeting Minutes Board - Committee - Commission - Council: School Committee Date: 2014-06-09 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 Chris Caruso Members - Not Present: Alison Elmer, Director of Student Services Mary DeLai, Assistant Superintendent Others Present: Al Sylvia, Reading Chronicle Minutes Respectfully Submitted By: John F. Doherty, Ed.D. Superintendent Topics of Discussion: I. Call to Order Vice - Chair Caruso called the School Committee to order at 7:02 p.m. He reviewed the agenda, announced the meeting was being recorded and welcomed guests. A. Public Input(I) There was no public input. B. Reports Students Student Representative Nastri reported on the senior activities leading up to yesterday's graduation. She also shared that elections of class officers and student council have taken place and the students are preparing for the upcoming finals and end of the school year. Page I 1 Sub-Committee Dr. Snow Dockser reported on the Human Relations Advisory Committee meeting she attended. The Committee discussed the art contest and ways to improve communication and control. They also looked at the possibility to link the contest with the district ArtsFest. They also reviewed upcoming town events and the role the HRAC would like to play in them. Mrs. Borawski reported on the Audit Committee meeting she attended. The Audit Committee reviewed the FY13 town side audit. The town's bond rating increased and has good fiscal controls and management in place. Mrs. Webb reported on upcoming STEM events. Touch Tomorrow is a science festival being held at WPI and there is an early childhood STEM event in November. Dr. Snow Dockser reported on her visit to kindergarten and preschool classrooms last week. She was thrilled to once again observe that the curriculum standards are being introduced and taught in age appropriate ways. The students were engaged and energetic. She was also impressed by the teacher—paraeducator collaboration in the classroom. Superintendent Dr. Doherty reported on graduation. It was a great event. He went on to thank the DPW and facilities staff for ensuring that the high school complex and field house were ready for graduation. He also thanked Director of Guidance Lynna Williams for her tireless efforts coordinating the graduation activities. He said that the chorus, bands and speeches were excellent and it was a very positive day. Mrs. Webb shared that Dr. Doherty spoke at the Baccalaureate held at the Unitarian Church. She shared that his speech was very inspiring and different from his graduation speech. C. Continued Business II. Recommended Procedure D. New Business Reorganization Vice-Chair Caruso turned the gavel over to Superintendent Doherty. Dr. Doherty then reviewed the procedure and policy and asked for nominations for Chair. Mrs. Webb nominated Mr. Caruso for Chair. Mr. Robinson seconded the nomination. Page 12 Mrs. Webb stated Mr. Caruso brings a lot of experience to the role as chair. On a roll call vote the nomination passed 5-0. Mr. Robinson, Dr. Snow Dockser,Mrs. Borawski,Mrs. Webb and Mr. Caruso. Superintendent Doherty handed the gavel to new Chair Chris Caruso. Chair Caruso asked for nominations for Vice Chair. Dr. Snow Dockser nominated Mr. Robinson for Vice-Chair. Mrs. Borawski seconded the nomination. On a roll call vote the nomination passed 5-0. Mr. Robinson,Dr. Snow Docker,Mrs. Borawski, Mrs. Webb and Mr. Caruso. Appointment of Liaisons Audit Committee Mrs. Borawski moved,seconded by Dr. Snow Dockser,to reappoint Chuck Robinson as School Committee liaison to the Audit Committee. Mrs. Borawski said Mr. Robinson's vast experience makes him well-suited to continue in this role. The motion carried 5-0. RCTV Board Mr. Robinson moved,seconded by Mrs. Borawski, to reappoint John Carpenter as School Committee liaison to the RCTV Board of Directors. The motion carried 5-0. Recreation Committee Mr. Caruso asked if any members were interested in replacing Mrs. Janowski as the representative to the Recreation Committee. Mrs. Borawski indicated she would be interested in filling the vacancy. Mr. Caruso shared that Mrs. Borawski has made an amazing impact on the School Committee during her short tenure. Mr. Robinson moved,seconded by Mrs. Webb,to appoint Jeanne Borawski as School Committee liaison to the Recreation Committee. The motion carried 5-0. Early Childhood Education Space Needs Working Group Representatives Chair Caruso entertained nominations. Dr. Snow Dockser nominated Jeanne Borawski. Mrs. Webb seconded the nomination. Page 13 Mr. Caruso nominated Chuck Robinson. Mrs. Borawski seconded the nomination. Mr. Robinson moved, seconded by Dr. Snow Dockser,to appoint Jeanne Borawski and Chuck Robinson as the School Committee representatives to the Early Childhood Education Space Needs Working Group. The motion carried 5-0. Director of Finance & Operations Interviews Dr. Doherty said that the Screening Committee interviewed candidates for this position on Thursday and has moved three forward to be interviewed tonight. Patricia Lugo Ms. Lugo provided a brief overview and her credentials. Dr. Snow Dockser asked the candidate about the budget process and her experience creating a budget as transparent as ours. Ms. Lugo was impressed by the budget and feels the process is basically the same for all budget development. She agrees in the value of providing as much information as possible. Mr. Robinson feels that the Director of Finance is a key member in the negotiation process and asked how the candidate would fill this role. Ms. Lugo has participated in negotiation sessions and has been able to offer cost analysis and creative solutions to address concerns. She would develop a connection with all stakeholders. Mr. Robinson asked how the candidate would handle being in this very public position and how would she develop a relationship with the town side. Ms. Lugo responded that in her current position she has attended Town Meetings, School Committee and other town board meetings and strives to be sure that all are on the same page. Mrs. Borawski asked what the performance expectations would be of administrators that she supervised. Ms. Lugo said she was a hands-on leader with an open door policy. She likes to give her staff an opportunity to reach their full potential. She would work closely with staff to resolve issues. Mrs. Webb referred to the budget and how transparent our document is, sharing as much information as possible. Ms. Lugo said she would continue to create a document that included as much information as possible to provide the public the answers to questions they may have. She feels that the more information provided builds a trust with all stakeholders. By providing as much information as possible the public can Page 14 develop an understanding of why decisions are made and create respect for the decisions. Mrs. Webb asked what she would bring to this position and what she perceived as her biggest challenges. Ms. Lugo felt her familiarity with the MUNIS system is a big plus. She will use her skills to extrapolate reports and will train others on methods to gather information. A challenge for her would be the development of job descriptions and manuals to have a process in place but feels that her organizational skills will help her with this task. Mr. Robinson asked for Ms. Lugo to share an experience that did not work out as she hoped and how did she handle it. Ms. Lugo referenced her district's in-house special education transportation. The equipment was old, the drivers wanted to unionize and there was dissention among the drivers. She decided to contact a local collaborative for a quote on providing transportation. She opted to use the collaborative transportation services which meant she had to let staff go and ease parental concerns. The collaborative hired several of the district drivers and they were able to continue to transport the students they had previously and this eased the concerns of parents. By initiating this call she was able to save the district a great deal of money. Dr. Snow Dockser asked how she views the role of education in this position. Ms. Lugo holds a Certificate of Educational Leadership and is aware of the impact the MCAS testing has had on school districts. She knows that there has to be quality professional development opportunities for teachers to ensure they have the tools to teach our children. She also feels it is important to attract quality teachers and pay competitive salaries to keep them in the district. Mrs. Webb asked about facilities management. Ms. Lugo said that the buildings in her district are old. The heating systems consist of dual oil burning furnaces. She explored converting to gas fired furnaces and was able to save the district money. Her biggest obstacle in the Facilities Department is the lack of staffing& funding but she has great head custodians that she has a good working relationship with and is able to maintain the buildings. The Town recently took over the Facilities Department requiring her to work with the Facilities Director to ensure a seamless transition. She has also started to take photographs of the building needs when it comes to Capital projects. She feels the town boards are more receptive if they can actually see the items that need to be addressed. Mr. Robinson asked why facilities management went over to the town side. Ms. Lugo said it was a cost savings measure and allows for shared staff which allows for more resources for the building maintenance. Mr. Robinson stated that the previous Finance Director has been able to take a lot off of the Superintendent's plate and asked how Ms. Lugo would continue to do that. Page I5 Ms. Lugo understands there will be big shoes to fill and has worked with Mary through MASBO. She believes Ms. DeLai has started a great trend which she will keep going. She does not want to start from scratch and will ensure that the budget process continues to be as transparent as possible. She will recognize problems early and address them. She will take charge and present new ideas and trends to the School Committee and Superintendent. Mrs. Webb asked about the commute. Ms. Lugo said she has family in Malden and has no ties to her current residence. She would be willing to relocate and is looking for the best fit for her. Mr. Caruso asked for final thoughts from the candidate. Ms. Lugo is very interested in the Reading Public Schools and feels she will be a good fit. She appreciates Ms. DeLai's hard work and hopes to follow in her footsteps. Michelle Shepard Ms. Shepard provided an overview of her experience and credentials. She shared that when she started in Fitchburg the city was in bad financial shape with a bad bond rating. The city has made a recovery and the bond rating has improved. Her ability to refinance the debt assisted in this recovery. She looks forward to working in a school district with a mission and purpose to benefit kids. Dr. Snow Dockser asked the candidate about the budget process and her experience creating a budget as transparent as ours. Ms. Shepard responded that the budget document is very meticulous and detailed. She will work with stakeholders to be sure that the hows and whys of the numbers are addressed. Dr. Snow Dockser asked about the candidate's knowledge of an educational setting. Ms. Shepard said she has completed the MASBO licensure program and worked in the Clinton Public Schools for her internship. She shared that she has an understanding of how school finance, warrant process and grants all work. She has audited grants and has attended workshops on the circuit breaker. Dr. Snow Dockser followed up asking how she would prioritize the budget items. Ms. Shepard said the major portion of the budget is salary and benefits. Professional development and the ability to provide the supplies and materials for the staff to be successful are also important elements of the budget process. She would investigate other avenues to aid in funding supplies etc. Mr. Robinson stated that the district is in good shape and asked how the candidate would continue to collaborate with stakeholders in this public position. Page 16 Ms. Shepard feels it is important to cultivate community ties to be able to move the district forward. She would look at the big picture, discuss options and determine the best options. She referenced the desire to establish an Early Childhood Center in Reading. She would explore other avenues to secure funding. She also feels she has the energy and desire to be successful in Reading and will stay connected to MASBO for resources and support. Mr. Robinson followed up on his question and asked how the candidate would work with REF. Ms. Shepard indicated that she has the experience to work with foundations and non-profits. Mrs. Borawski asked what kind of manager she would be. Ms. Shepard said she would not micromanage and everyone has a job to do. She would have an open door policy and would be sure to meet the department heads to discuss expectations, scheduling and potential problems. Chair Caruso asked for closing remarks. Ms. Shepard feels that this position offers a nice challenge and the town has a nice small town feel. She drove around town prior to the meeting and would enjoy working here being a part of the finance team. The Chair called a brief recess at 8:36 p.m. The meeting was called back to order at 8:40 p.m. Martha Sybert Ms. Sybert gave a brief overview of her experience and credentials. Dr. Snow Dockser asked the candidate about the budget process and her experience creating a budget as transparent as ours. Ms. Sybert said the process is participatory. There is accountability in a municipal setting and she understands the need for student growth. Dr. Snow Dockser asked how the candidate would integrate the educational piece into the position. Ms. Sybert feels it is important to tie the budget to the district and school goals. The budget process is a long and inclusive one and it is important to collect data from all parties. Mr. Robinson asked about Ms. Sybert's career path moving from media to education and finance. Ms. Sybert said print media use and revenues were shrinking and her plan was to pursue a teaching career but was offered another position with CNET. After student teaching and serving as a long term substitute she determined that this Page I7 career path was not a good fit. She then enrolled in the MASBO certification program where she is able to combine her love of finance and education. Mrs. Borawski asked how she would develop relationships as a manager. Ms. Sybert responded that she takes pride in the fact that she does not micromanage and she would be an advocate and resource for her staff. Mrs. Webb asked how the candidate would transition to a more public role. Ms. Sybert said she is very comfortable publically speaking, is active in MASBO and familiar with the district. She is open to being active and interacting with the public. Mr. Caruso expressed concerns regarding the lack of experience. Ms. Sybert said she has a strong finance background and has resources available to her including her mentor, MASBO and the DESE. She knows she has a lot to learn. Mr. Caruso followed up asking where she sees herself in 5 and 10 years. Ms. Sybert responded that if she was still here in 5 years perhaps she would be an Assistant Superintendent. Ten years is too far down the road to predict. Mr. Robinson pointed out the changes in district leadership and asked how she would assist in managing that and keeping the district moving forward. Ms. Sybert is also concerned with turnover but would meet with each new administrator to review their budgets, spending, etc. She feels that knowing the administrators fosters growth. Dr. Snow Dockser mentioned space issues and the possibility of a building project and wanted to know what experience she has had with that. Ms. Sybert responded that there would be an Operations Project Manager that would oversee the project. She would tap into the MSBA for other resources as well. Mrs. Webb stated that the town has a revenue issue that affects the operating and capital budgets and asked how the candidate would interact with the town side leadership and provide input. Ms. Sybert said she has established a good working relationship with the Town Accountant and Finance Director and would hope to develop the same type of relationship with the Town Manager. She would explore leveraging revolving funds. Chair Caruso asked for a closing statement. Ms. Sybert asked the School Committee what they perceived as the biggest challenge. Page 18 Mr. Caruso said that Ms. DeLai's departure leaves a huge hole and there is a lot that goes into that job. The School Committee will need to fill the position with the correct person with the requisite skill set. Chair Caruso thanked Ms. Sybert and the candidate left the meeting. Mr. Caruso said that the School Committee's responsibility includes the hiring of this position. He reviewed the next steps and if the Committee members had any additional questions they should forward them to the Superintendent as soon as possible. The School Committee will meet on June 12th at 7:30 a.m. to vote on their recommendation of the next Director of Finance and Operations. Mr. Robinson asked how the Search Committee arrived at the three finalists. Mrs. Borawski, who served on the Search Committee, said the process was thorough and complete and felt the three people interviewed this evening were the strongest candidates. During the interview process the questions asked were consistent to give the Search Committee a level field to make their recommendations. Dr. Snow Dockser would like Superintendent Doherty to ask the references how the finalists perform under pressure. Mr. Robinson asked about the process for Thursday morning. Dr. Doherty said that it is an open meeting. Mr. Robinson asked what would happen if the School Committee did not choose one of the finalists. Dr. Doherty said the position would be reposted and the whole process would repeat. He also said that all of the end of year reporting would need to get done. Dr. Snow Dockser feels the Committee needs to find a balance between weakness and strengths. Mrs. Borawski agreed and added that the person needs to be the best fit for Reading. Dr. Snow Dockser said this person will not be another Mary and we need to allow her to make the position hers. III. Routine Matters a. Bills and Payroll (A) The following warrants were circulated and signed. Warrant 51450 6.05.14 $211,010.39 Calendar IV.Information Page 19 V. Future Business VI.Adjournment Mrs. Borawski moved, seconded by Mrs. Webb,to adjourn. The motion carried 5-0. The meeting adjourned at 9:25 p.m. NOTE: The minutes reflect the order as stated in the posted meeting agenda not the order they occurred during the meeting. Page 110 4.,„eizai..,--_i% r Town of Reading � , � l Meeting Minutes --r.,' Board - Committee - Commission - Council: School Committee Date: 2014-06-12 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 Craig Martin, Assistant Superintendent Elaine Webb Jeanne Borawski Chris Caruso Members - Not Present: Alison Elmer, Director of Student Services Mary DeLai, Assistant Superintendent Andrea Nastri, Student Representative Others Present: Al Sylvia, Reading Chronicle Minutes Respectfully Submitted By: John F. Doherty, Ed.D. Superintendent Topics of Discussion: I. Call to Order Chair Caruso called the School Committee to order at 7:33 a.m. He reviewed the agenda, announced the meeting was being recorded and welcomed guests. A. Public Input(I) There was no public input. B. Continued Business Director of Finance & Operations Appointment Mrs. Borawski felt it was important to review the process. She felt that it was a thorough public process. Page I 1 Mr. Caruso opened the discussion and thanked the three finalists for giving up their time to interview in this extensive process. Dr. Snow Dockser asked the Superintendent for follow-up information after the reference checks and interviews that he and Mr. Martin conducted with each finalist. Dr. Doherty provided additional information on finalist Lugo. She has a very strong finance background. She also is an experienced School Business Official that does a good job and has worked with Food Service, Facilities and transportation departments. Her position in East Bridgewater is being cut due to consolidation. Finalist Shepard brings different strengths from the Municipal side. She is MASBO certified but does not have extensive education experience. She has been an effective municipal assistant treasurer and has saved the city a lot of money. She is dependable and hard working. Finalist Sybert made a conscience effort to come from the private to the public sector. She has strong references and a strong accounting and business background. She also is familiar with the district. Mr. Robinson stated that he contacted the Reading Town Accountant who spoke highly of Ms. Sybert. Mrs. Webb thanked her fellow members for delaying the appointment until today to allow time to reflect and gather additional information. We need to look at what we need right now and the best opportunity long term. Mrs. Borawski spoke of Ms. Shepard and was impressed with her story. She has strong skills and a passion to work in a school district. She is up against two finalists that have strong school business experience. Mrs. Webb agreed with Mrs. Borawski's perspective. Mrs. Borawski continued and shared that she found it difficult to decide between Ms. Lugo and Ms. Sybert. She also feels it is important for continuity due to the number of administrative changes that will be occurring in the district. She is also concerned about Ms. Sybert's lack of experience. Dr. Snow Dockser also thanked the candidates for participating in the extensive process and echoed Mrs. Borawski's feelings. Ms. Sybert had excellent references and would ease the transition because of her familiarity of the district. Dr. Snow Docker added that she was also impressed by Ms. Lugo's credentials. Mrs. Borawski also pointed out that Reading is a leader at the state level and was impressed that Ms. Sybert is developing a network beyond Reading and has presented at the MASBO Conference. Page 12 Mrs. Webb was also torn between Ms. Lugo and Ms. Sybert but after taking a closer look at Ms. Sybert's credentials she felt she would be the correct choice. Mr. Caruso felt we had three strong candidates but it was important to choose the right candidate at this time to allow for a seamless transition and stability. He did have concerns with Ms. Sybert's lack of experience and that all three of her references were from the same place. He would have liked to have seen references from other employers. He did agree that she was extremely prepared and confident during her interview with the School Committee. Mr. Robinson felt both Ms. Lugo and Ms. Sybert would be good fits culturally for Reading. He is struggling with the experience level but after speaking to the Town Accountant and Dr. Doherty he is more comfortable with the appointment of Ms. Sybert. He also expressed the desire to promote from within and a easier transition. Mr. Robinson moved,seconded by Dr. Snow Dockser,to authorize the Superintendent to enter into contract negotiations with Ms. Sybert as the Director of Finance& Operations for the Reading Public Schools. The motion carried 5-0. Mr. Robinson moved,seconded by Dr. Snow Dockser,to enter into executive session with respect to non-union personnel and to return to open session at approximately 8:30 a.m. The roll call vote carried 5-0. Mr. Caruso,Mr. Robinson,Mrs. Webb,Mrs. Borawski and Dr. Snow Dockser. The meeting adjourned at 8:09 a.m. Chair Caruso called open session back to order at 9:21 a.m. He said that Dr. Doherty and Mrs. Borawski will begin the negotiations process with Ms. Sybert. II. Adjournment Mrs. Webb moved,seconded by Mrs. Borawski,to adjourn. The motion carried 5-0. The meeting adjourned at 9:25 a.m. NOTE: The minutes reflect the order as stated in the posted meeting agenda not the order they occurred during the meeting. Page 13 2013-2014 School Committee Meeting Date School Presenting @ Meeting Office Hours June 23rd School Committee 6.11.14 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 21st School Committee Office Hours July 30th FinForum 7:30 p.m. Sr.Center August 25th School Committee- New Teacher Introductions Sept. 8th School Committee Office Hours Sept. 9th 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 Oct. 29th FinForum 7:30 p.m. Sr.Center Nov. 3rd School Committee Office Hours Nov.4th State Election Nov. 10th Town Meeting Nov. 13th Town Meeting Nov.l7th 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 Jan. 28th FinForum 7:30 p.m. Sr.Center Feb. 9th School Committee Office Hours Feb. 23rd School Committee March 9th School Committee Office Hours March 23rd School Committee March 25th FY16 Budget Presentation Finance 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 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 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 6.19.14 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.