HomeMy WebLinkAbout2014-09-22 School Committee Packet School Committee Meeting
September 22 , 2014
Superintendent's Conference
Room
Open Session 7:00 P.M.
'` Town of Reading
40
( _ 1 Meeting Posting with Agenda
Board - Committee - Commission - Council:
School Committee
Date: 2014-09-22 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. FY14 Budget Status Update (I)
D. New Business
1. Behavioral Health/YRBS Presentation& Update (I)
2. FY16 Budget Calendar(A)
E. Routine Matters
1. Bills and Payroll (A)
2. Minutes (A)
September 8, 2014
3. Bids and Donations (A)
Accept a Donation to Coolidge Middle School Science Team
Accept a Donation from the Friends of RMHS Cheering
4. Calendar(I)
F. Information
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
i�
__ �r�', Town of Reading
€ _ I Meeting Posting with Agenda
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.
� Craig Martin
Superintendent of Schools :. Assistant Superintendent
"74. for Learning and Teaching
82 Oakland Road
Reading,MA 01867
Phone:781-944-5800 /�/; Martha J.Sybert
Fax:781-942-9149 Director of Finance and Operations
Reading Public Schools
Instilling a joy of learning and inspiring the innovative leaders of tomorrow
TO: Reading School Committee
FROM: Martha J. Sybert
DATE: September 19, 2014
RE: Final FY2014 Budget Status Reports
On September 12, 2014, the Town Accountant closed the books for Fiscal Year 2014. The attached
document includes the final expenditure reports for the School Department Budget and Town
Facilities Budget. The final closing balances were very close to the preliminary final amounts
reported to you at your meeting on July 23rd. The School Department budget closed with a balance
of$571,748 versus $549,687 reported on July 22nd representing 1.43%of the total appropriation.
The Town Facilities budget closed with a balance of$14,752 as reported on July 23rd representing
2.1% of the total appropriation.
We will be prepared to answer any specific questions regarding these reports at your meeting on
September 22, 2014. If you have any questions in advance of that meeting, please feel free 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.
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John F.Doherty,Ed.D. Craig Martin
Superintendent of Schools 'V Assistant Superintendent
for Learning and Teaching
82 Oakland Road
Reading,MA 01867
Phone:781-944-5800 �y Martha J.Sybert
Fax:781-942-9149 f t Director of Finance&Operations
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: September 18, 2014
TOPIC: Behavioral Health/YRBS Presentation and Update
At our meeting on Monday evening, RCASA Director Erica McNamara and District Administrator of
Support Services Sara Burd will be at our meeting to focus on the behavioral, social & emotions, health,
and wellness curriculums. This will be a comprehensive presentation of the curriculum district wide and
the changes over the past 5 years as well as the plans for coming year. Ms. McNamara will also present
information from the latest round of the Youth Risk Behavior Survey. Members of the RCASA Board
will be attending the meeting.
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.
9/18/2014
Risk Behavior Comparison .
Substance Abuse
&
Mental Health
i s Z.f. }"PY
Context
z :Ga `..
Risk Behavior Among Adults Adult Substance Abuse
0 An estimated 20 million adults in the
SUBSTANCE USE Sr MENTAL United States abuse alcohol. More than
el,
s,ILLNESS IN U.S. ADULTS (18+) half avily when they were started drinking
( � heavily when they were teenagers.
... _4,Er GI+�F� l.E.,�`!0''ALTH!.�OUN�
Behavaral hearth issues affect milione es the united stares each year
0 More than 70%of substance abusers
hold jobs 1 in 4, ages 18 to 34, used
�77 ' it drugs in the past year; and 1 worker in 3
Nearly Nra"y knows of drug sales in the workplace.
1IN12 , . 11N5
us.admahada �nar, u s adults had
0 Americans consume 60%of the world's
Substance use 20.3 ^rw t i ,rs production of illegal drugs: 23 million
Disorder(SLID) 43.8 ^MI1 use marijuana at least 4x a week; 18
in the past year MILLION MILLION in p >tv veal week;adults who d<<n w„n million abuse alcohol; 6 million
have sun n ai regularly use cocaine; and 2 million
use heroin.
Suicidality among Adults Reading Police Department
In 2012,an estimated 9.0 million adults(3.9 percent) Overdoses&Suicide Attempts,n=29(3 fatal)
aged 18 or older had serious thoughts of suicide in the Jan-Aug 2014 involving Reading, MA Residents*
past year in the United States
Suicidal Ideation
�""'t---
Users of Any Illicit Drugs 9%
Jan. Feb. March April May June July Aug.
By Age Group Gender
40+ 13-17 Female
All Adults 'f 4% 30-39 18-21
Male
Saieid Rr40ughts in tkrRut far ono ag.adotts Aged IA.,by Past Dar.Cseof Stinted N tDm".212 e'.
1
9/18/2014
- Reading Police Department
Overdoses&Suicide Attempts,n=29(3 fatal) What causes the disease of addiction?
Jan-Aug 2014 involving Reading,MA Residents*
Suicide
attempts- , Heroin Family background Environmental
Pills,
Alcohol, (40-50% of cases) Factors (culture)
Marijuana,
weapon Chemical
Dependency
x Causation factors
CoGcHaBine, 1°. "-4, „%ae ,- *C
o-occurring Alconol . .,
Lifestyle Choices disorders
Xanax,
-
Clonidine,
Psych meds Opiate Pills
Developing the Disease of Addiction What causes mental illness?
°. j Chronic Fatal F F ,, ''
Disease is characterized by compulsion and obsession.
A complex
Denial t interplay of
factors causes
1.Chemical dependency is the primary disease not a symptom of mental illnesses
another disease.
2.Chemical dependency is a progressive disease,its gets worse
if its not treated. Personalit Environment
3.Once a person has it,there is no cure. It can be managed Y
through treatment.
4.Sustained use of alcohol may produce profound physical
health consequences.
WHY DO TEENS -. -
USE
.. 11.1.7
b.Relieves boredom
c.Relieves pain 2013 Survey Results
d.Like myself better
e.So others will like me(to feel likable) Reading Memorial High School
f.Because all my friends dolt(to be included) Youth Risk Behavior Survey
2
9/18/2014
LData \....
ti0n High School
Press,
Projects that were developed with the support of local YRBS data
- RCASA(Reading Coalition Against Substance Abuse)
-Staffing and materials for wellness education for all levels
-Staffing support for Counseling and Behavioral Health Task Force
recommendations
- Climbing wall and Fitness Center at High School Fieldhouse
-Enhancement activities including special guest speakers and
presentations
I;'ii IS:If ADP:Cu',IA Plfih7
• ••'""'^r i, ii i ii51<I F AVI-UIf sU'-CEY
wvrrbu.rwrr. .e_.
77, 4
1 ,/•'... 3
+ r+0 s', a ;1i.�
x
romp..el um Mons
K—^
wasr-4W.i-t—as. CONNECTIONS
e l;s,rh'rCi
...r,...--.••radeM I hen U
•a ! i fnAd'
1MI.e"'",,W f
Underage Drinking: Grades 9-12 Marijuana use: Grades 9-12
65% 23% 38%
u% a%
Recent brng o o Recent
drinking 19/ 60 24%
"j 27We 48% marijuana use
.. 240/ 24%
35% 4
Rennet alcohol 36% 30% o
41% 41/o
,� 27% Used
38
"? """' 66/ marijuana
a. .�_=r - c�34%
used anion I 63%
60% - Used Recent
--- e U.S.2013 marijuana marijuana use
Used Recent Recent marijuana marijuana
e F% ',u � alcohol alcohol use binge DMA 2013
drinking Reading 2011
•U.5.2013 9MA 2013 naeading 2013 Reading 2011-.Reading 2013 Reading 2013 ...Pegging 2013
3
9/18/2014
Drug Use Part II: Grades 9-12 Drug Use Part II: Grades 9-12
18%
7%
6% 6°/a 6% 6%
13%
12/we
law 4°N
1 2°° 3% 3% 10°
s Z% 1 2/o 2%.r
urea 9 9 a.r.u:ea r.na�ant:(t�� ) u rsta:v(iet n,e) mes T5 Used Heroin Used Meth Used non- Used Cocaine(past
ra(men.,oo prescribed Steroids 30 days)
r Reading 2013 0 MA 2013 •U.S.2013 r Reading 2013 8 MA 2013 •U.S.2013
Bullying, Depression, SI: Grades 9-12 Disordered Eating: Grades 9-12
134.
30%
2646 +t.,
--_ 254'0 ' 10°h 104.
Zii'
17% p?may I 44"1 . 7%
k .
r.
__ aeea e.n.ea reu.aa/a.r we(va ar)�ek:a rv..:.rea�seit.m ry rastea mr zo urim°amr. q m.t wn:m.:e 9 _ee/�vamnc c.no-.i
Suicidality: Grades 9-12 Stress: Grades 9-12, Reading 2013
17%
ia% Relationships
13% 144. 13W
1 12% ( Peer group
3,' C 11% and friends
€,a ;F:' °i.
i C43 s
°
a•/.
3' School
zw. t°' r Environment
, � .. Family "' :'-,�'
Problems
.. aea(ermei ea(ienure) "---:z;"`""" (ree.o-ee ,7.",�.) ��� -
C Reading 2013 a MA 2013 •U.S.2013
4
9/18/2014
Treatment: Grades 9-12, Reading 2013
of local high school students reported they
1 8 O�p.. "Take Medicine or Receive Medical Treatment for
8 Behavioral,Mental Health or Emotional Problem"
Middle School
Gender
For Students That Reported Treatment
9th 10th 11th 12th
grade grade grade grade
Received Tx by Grade
Alcohol & Drugs: Grades 6-8 Other Illegal Drug Use Grades 6-8
65%
used non-
prescribed Rx to 4O/ 6O c 6%
get high 4% 48/ 5/
Used cmarett ..n'b"`e` -.''.o.14% - 4 4%
4/o
(lifetime) g% 30% t _ a ar.
I ;>:
c 27%
Used mor,,ana ) h*"111x/15% 4.
(lifetime) S% ...
1 ' .fie 22% f r.
Used alcoh l b• 6.4}^
(lifetime)
18% ..._ e 5 K a
16% Used Recent Recent �,v?.>4 _
alcohol alcohol use binge Used illegal drugs in past month
drinking
•US.2013•MA 2013 a Re ading 2013 Reading 2011 Reading 2013 n Reading 2013 ®MA 2013 •U.5 2013
Bullying: Grades 6-8 Disordered Eating- Grades 6-8
Bullied online 2 or loop%o
more times
6%
45°!0 14°!o Unhealthy
weight control
Bullying at 0 110/0 methods sM Sao
school *= 36/o (fasting,diet
d„Y" pills,vomiting aura
laxatives
27% awn --34,0
E U.S.2013
c MA 2013 ■US 2013
uMA 2013 I--'Reading 2011_Reading 2013
c.Reading 2013 Reading 2011 Reading 2013
c Reading 2013
5
9/18/2014
Depression & NSSI, Grades 6-8' Suicidality, Grades 6-8
•
•
18%
Seriously considered suicide
°s (lifetime) :,.::::,,,f:'.:7,-VE„.7,-48%
16% ''s—, - 11%
Depressive �,i'
symptoms •
140/
Made a plan
8%
14% 14%. 14%
,,.._,. 111
Non-suicidal s 1
self-injury et t 8%
14%o .,a u. ...o.
Reading 2011 Reading 2013 Attemped suicide(past 12 mo) > 4%
i Non-suicidal self-injury --_- 3%
E MA 2013 L.Reading 2013 Depressive symptoms
e U.S.2013 r MA 2013 c Reading 2013
Suicidality, Grades 6-8 ` ..
Behavioral Health
��% 11%
Reading 2011 Reading 2013
Serious Thoughts of Suicide a Attempted Suicide
8.«mo-..l,rttnn,mww. m> _
Support Services
rrr l r, a fthavier41 Hearth Task Force
tnmme �+�
SePOINSIOLISEI ,, 8,,
u.rtawu..un ..�+s
TIERS 64 s ,r' � . ea. c mrr a <:
"'
Mu►OONiOIOi+httsW s
TIER 2 DIUDireav
srt k 1 solo,
iii Mn r ,m, ' �: E
.cawrta«w-..a _.-.c-.c rzns
w EgaUdent
1035E
TIER 3 I Y.x ax m n r n«
7,!`"1-s:1!".,,
Z-d t iI.0 C 2 ns I D P tt d C r d tt fq C nxt d1t
tvsttn(ant.rte fCgT)#t1a++i"{f knt..tcm rt c.t an x C t.�,vm for Yt�Cen,t ..>�r
6
9/18/2014
-School Chemical Health & Chief's Zero
Tolerance Policies in Action
•
Enrollment by Of the youth served
`O" ^x School Program • 76%of youth served attend RMHS
or Diversion • 15%attend nearby public or private schools
• 6%over 18,out of school
w aM..•. �r'��°� • 3%attend college
Trw n mea Chlden CoitaccriardeProtkwedaiwwg
5acwtmrnAg eeena.wrs
ou � *�e++ j Youth from RMHS served by year
f amcw -Mg =' • 2012=37 youth served
samgrm.ealea cwve E..we u+n ma mom. • 2013=40 youth served
2014=25 youth served YTD
59%of youth are male,41%female
,y,,l Substances • 95%involved underage drinking
• 5%involved marijuana
School Chemical Health &Chief's Zero School Chemical Health &Chief's Zero'
Tolerance Policies in Action Tolerance Policies in Action
7
_ , a a :- - n_.x. _,,, .,'w 1_s.. w.,+=_ Partnership • RMHS RCASA,Police work closely to ensure services are
Deliverables • 48 education hours delivered since 10/2012 coordinated.
• 125(1 on 1)sessions w/RMHS/RCASA Alcohol • Focus on the best interest of the child including accountability.
• Consistency by School Administrators and Police Department
&Drug Counselors has resulted in a fair delivery of school and/or court
• 125 Resource Packets sent home to parents consequences.
with counseling resources
• 14 RMHS youth referred for mandatory � � to dlle�
substance abuse assessment. M
• 264 hours of case management oversight forA°
88 young people enrolled in Reading Police
Diversion Program including RMHS youth.
• 1,300 hours of court-ordered community Recognition • Lowell Juvenile Court,Woburn District Court recognize program.
service conducted by youth enrolled in the • io communities contacted RCASA to develop a similar program.
diversion program. • Middlesex District Attorney's Office has complimented the
• 88 essays completed on decision-making and program design and delivery and would like to see the program
expand.
consequences
RMHS Adults Assist Program Rocket Revolution
0 ADULTS ASSIST is a program based on the NCAA resource'Coaches Assist•goat Puroose-
was started by the University or Virginia.with permission granted by the University Provide high school varsity athletes with the opportunity to
of Virginia to adapt meir mnege program forme high school ie rel,we will be
offering this workshop for all coaches and adults that work with students in learn,practice,and demonstrate leadership skills that can be
extracurricular act:vises.as a community,we have made great strides in reducing shared with the fellow athletes,peers,and the Reading
substance abuse_and imp-ov:ng access re supportive service=_. Howeve,we sell community.These skills will have an emphasis on program
'end with a sianficant percentage of youth that are abusing substances.The values Of:character,teamwork,sportsmanship and
Program s m-sponsored by Beading cod:eon Against substance Abuse and the always giving your best effort.
Reatl:ng Pa[:§c schocis.
the wprnshop focuses o:,me fonow�ng reps mr helping a student Future Plans:
n vonca prob;ems and cac.e problems=mousy • Mentoring program(pairing freshmen with juniors)
em -sib to for acting • Development of lessons to share with other Reading
c,_c.=cn photo-r,for vo,r�dev�+rr^s,v school schools(elementary and middle).
mcate a ccmre�Baton and ma�.e an apprcpna,a refaral • Outreach to the youth sports programs in Reading.
• Grow from 50 students to 150
• Develop additional branch to include groups such as
-s-ks renno,�,w an edr:cator ar`h C-mf:ad r.dd�caon counselor facduat ci:e chorus,band,and drama.
a ls4iop e.:Gi?,rm Zapa and cica McNamara on rand[o ansver q�esOCas. [.
you would IlLe to learn more abort the USA program,vest
7
9/18/2014
What can you do to help? What can you do to help?
:"'
Film Series Join us for The Hungry Heart Film
Rx Roundup •Turn in unwanted meds.It on Rx Addiction on 10/1/14 from
matters.13,000 bottles totaling 7-9:30
585,000 pills have been collected Mystic Public Health • "Reduce misuse of opioids,
since 2009. o p
Coalition&MA Opioid deaths&non-fatal hospital
Text a Tip •Sharing information is critical for Abuse Prevention events associated with opioid
law enforcement to intervene. Collaborative poisoning"
Health Education •Support comprehensive health (MOAPC) Join us for the regional
education in Reading to provide a dialogue on 10/23/14 from
strong prevention foundation for 7-9 at RMHS Fieldhouse
young people. Reduce Stigma Help us reframe substance abuse
as a health issue that requires
comprehensive treatment.
8
John F.Doherty,Ed.D. Craig Martin
Superintendent of Schools Assistant Superintendent
.w for Learning and Teaching
82 Oakland Road
i
Reading,MA 01867 Martha J.Sybert
Phone:781-944-5800
•
Director of Finance&Operations
Fax:781-942-9149
Beata 1,21
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: September 18, 2014
TOPIC: FY16 Budget Calendar
Attached for your review,please find the proposed budget calendar to be used to guide the development
of the Fiscal Year 2016 Superintendent's Recommended Budget and the subsequent FY2016 School
Committee Budget. We will be prepared to discuss and answer any questions you may have at your
September 22nd meeting.
Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions in advance of that meeting.
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
FY16 DRAFT Budget Calendar
Town Meeting Warrant Closes September 3
FY15—25 Capital Plan to Finance Committee September 8
Financial Forum I October 8
Budget Preparation information sent to all administrators Mid-October
and MUNIS budget training
Budget input meetings with staff October 20—November 7
Budget Parents Identified October
Principals present goals and budgetary needs October 15—November 1
Financial Forum II October 28
Building/department budget requests submitted to November 1
Central Office
Town Meeting November 10
Superintendent Reviews building/department requests November 1—November 15
and performance goals
Superintendent holds community forums to discuss November 12—November 30
budget priorities
Budget Parent meetings Late November through January
Finalize FY16 Salary Projections December 1
Budget development deliberations undertaken by December
Administration
Superintendent's Budget Finalized December 30
Budget document distributed January 2
School Committee questions submitted in preparation for January 7
deliberations
Budget overview presented to School Committee January 12
Budget(cost center)presentations and deliberations by January 15,22
School Committee
Open Public Hearing on Budget January 26
Financial Forum III January 28
School Committee vote on Superintendent's Budget February 2
School Committee Budget forwarded to Finance February 4
Committee and Town Manager
School Committee meets with Finance Committee March 18
School Budget voted at Annual Town Meeting April 27,May 4, or May 7
John F.Doherty,Ed.D. Craig Martin
Superintendent of Schools Superintendent
p t for Learning and Teaching
82 Oakland Road ,r. r
Reading,MA 01867 f' Martha J.Sybert
Phone:781-944-5800 '"
Director of Finance&Operations
Fax:781-942-9149
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: September 18, 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 position for the 2014-15 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 g
Memo
To: Dr.John Doherty,Superintendent
From: Sarah Marchant,Coolidge Principal
CC: Martha Sybert,Director of Finance and Operations
Michaels Saunders,Human Resources Administrator
Date: September 8,2014
Re: Gift by Science Team Parent Organization
Dear Dr. Doherty,
Please accept the donation of$3,500 from the"Coolidge School Science Olympiad"support group. These funds are to
be used to compensate the Coolidge Science Olympiad Team Head Coach Karawan Meade for her leadership of the
team during the 2014-2015 school year.
•
We are extremely grateful for this support,and ask that this donation be accepted.
The Reading Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race,color,sex,religion,nalional origin,sexual orientation,age or disability.
• 1 tl: 2
Cji4 SC��"F!1J'CF:
Coolidge School Science Olympiad - 89 Brich Meadow Drive - Reading, MA 01867 • 781/942-9158
August 25, 2014
Dear Mrs.Marchant,Dr.Doherty, Mr.Martin and the Reading School Committee:
The Coolidge School Science Olympiad (CSSO)hereby requests that the Reading
Public Schools accept our donation in the amount of$3,500 for the purpose of
compensating the following teachers for science team duties performed during
the 2014-2015 school year.
• Karawan Meade(Head Coach): $3,500
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,
Liz Rogers
CSSO 2013-2014 President
John F.Doherty,Ed.D. Craig Martin
Superintendent of Schools p, Assistant Superintendent
for Learning and Teaching
82 Oakland Road
Reading,MA 01867 ' Martha J.Sybert
Phone:781-944-5800
Fax:781-942-9149 Director of Finance&Operations
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: September 18, 2014
TOPIC: Accept a Donation from the Friends of RMHS Cheering
At our meeting, I am asking the School Committee to accept a donation from the Friends of Reading
Cheering to be used to support the purchase the services of a choreographer and corresponding music for
the 2014 competitive season.
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.
Friends of RMHS Cheering
75 Border Road
Reading, MA 01867
September 16, 2014
John Doherty, Superintendent
Mary Delai,Assistant Superintendent
Members of the Reading School Committee
82 Oakland Street
Reading, MA 01867
Hello,
The Friends of RMHS Cheering would like to make a donation in the amount of$2,450.00. The
purpose of the donation is to purchase services of a choreographer and corresponding music for
the 2014 competition season.
If you need other information or would like to discuss; I can be reached at 617-947-1815.
Sincerely,
Cynthia Callahan
President
Friends of RMHS Cheering
}
Craig Martin
John F.Doherty,Schools is Assistant Superintendent
Superintendent of Schools for Learning and Teaching
82 Oakland Road
Reading,MA 01867 Martha J.Sybert
Phone:7:781-942-9149 JJ Director of Finance and Operations
Fax:781-942-9149
Readin g Public Schools
Instilling a joy of learning and inspiring the innovative leaders of tomorrow
TO: Reading School Committee
FROM: John F. Doherty
Superintendent of Schools
DATE: September 22, 2014
TOPIC: Accept a Donation from Reading Girls Soccer Parents Association
At our meeting this evening, I will ask the School Committee to accept a donation in the
amount of$1,820 to be used to purchase bench coats for the 2014 season.
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 Girls Soccer Parents Association
25 Irving Street
Reading, MA 01867
781-944-5331
September 21, 2014
Reading School Committee:
The Reading Girls Soccer Parents Association (RGSPA) has embarked on a
fundraising effort to supply bench coats for the varsity soccer team. The parents
feel the addition of the bench coat to the existing uniform will keep the players
warm and healthy as the season moves into late fall weather conditions. The
coats will remain a permanent piece of the varsity team uniform.
We approached two vendors for coat proposals; Dynamik Sports Inc. and Inaria.
Although both were close in price, we were unable to get a sample of lnaria's
product to determine if it would meet our requirements.
RGSPA respectfully requests that you approve and precede with the purchase of
twenty six (26) Holloway% Length Sideline Coats w/ color embroidery on left
chest as detailed in the attached estimate.
Enclosed is a check for $1,820 to reimburse the town for this purchase.
Thank you for your time and support.
Sincerely,
Garry O'Brien
President
3
James Small
Treasurer
_' �`'�, Town of Reading
toe-
�t jI Meeting Minutes
.pY_u 1
..f'{l '
Board - Committee - Commission - Council:
School Committee
Date: 2014-09-08 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
Jeanne Borawski Martha Sybert, Director of Finance
Chris Caruso Craig Martin, Assistant Superintendent
Gary Nihan
Elaine Webb
Chuck Robinson
Members - Not Present:
Others Present:
Andrea Nastri, Student Representative
Carl Gillies, Student Representative (arrived at 8:10 p.m.)
RTA president Chris Copeland
Al Sylvia, Reading Chronicle
Demetra Tseckares, Resident
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 7:00 p.m.
II. Recommended Procedure
A. Public Input(I)
Chair Caruso called for public input.
Demetra Tseckeres presented a petition signed by almost 400 residents requesting
that the School Committee consider a change in the school calendar to start school
after Labor Day.
Geoffrey Coram asked about the directory information requirements for parents.
He would like the request for student's date of birth removed.
Page I 1
Dr. Doherty said the directory information form is aligned with the FERPA
regulations and a parent has the option not to provide that information.
B. Reports
Students
Student Representative Nastri reported on the opening of school and said it went
very smoothly and is off to a great start. She also shared that the cast is set for the
fall drama production of Urinetown and rehearsals will begin soon. Reading
Memorial High School is currently hosting the Spanish exchange students. Our
sports teams are off to a good start and the RMHS Improv Troupe is holding
auditions.
Mr.Robinson moved,seconded by Mrs. Borawski,to enter into executive
session to discuss strategy with respect to litigation and the approval of
minutes and to return to open session at approximately 7:45 p.m. The roll
call vote was 6-0. Mr. Robinson,Dr. Snow Dockser,Mr.Nihan,Mr. Caruso,
Mrs. Borawski and Mrs. Webb.
The meeting adjourned at 7:15 p.m.
The open session meeting was called back to order at 8:01 p.m.
Sub-Committee
Dr. Snow Dockser thanked Ms. Sybert for sitting down with Mrs. Borawski and
her to discuss the warrant procedure.
Dr. Snow Dockser said the Human Relations Advisory Committee met with the
Board of Selectmen and informally as a committee to discuss the Committee's
mission and means of being proactive in educating the community about their
mission. She went on to share that the Street Faire was very successful and the
RMHS "A World of Difference" group shared the tent with the Human Relations
Advisory Committee sharing what they can do as high school students to educate
the community on how to promote a positive culture.
She next reported on the visit to Parker Middle School by Secretary of Education
Matt Malone last week. The Secretary toured the school and met with students,
faculty, community members and administrators.
Mrs. Borawski followed up on Dr. Snow Dockser's comments sharing some of
the great things happening at Parker during the Secretary's visit. He visited a
math classroom where students were engaged and focused. The class made great
use of the technology in the classroom. He visited a science classroom were no
two groups were working on the same activity. It was very individualized
learning to achieve the same goal.
Mrs. Webb reported on the upcoming RCASA Annual Meeting on October 1St
Student Representative Gilles arrived at 8:10 p.m.
Page 12
The documentary "The Hungry Heart" will be aired. The subject matter is drug
abuse and she encourages all members of the community to attend.
Mrs. Webb also reported on an upcoming multi-community World Café on
October 23`d. Substance abuse issues will be the focus of this event.
Students
Student Representative Gillies reported on the start of school and how popular the
air conditioned water fountain on the third floor was during the recent heat wave.
He went on to share that Mr. Scarpitto will be using the new"Rocket" bell to
acknowledge student success during the morning announcements. He also
reported that Principal Bakr will be meeting monthly with senior leaders and feels
this is a great start to build a strong principal/student relationship.
Superintendent
The Superintendent reported on Secretary Malone's visit to Parker. He
commended and thanked the administrators, faculty, staff and students of the
Parker Middle School for the great representation of what is happening in the
Reading Public Schools. Students were engaged and active learners and willing
to share the work they were doing. The secretary was extremely impressed with
the focused engagement of students and the use of technology on the 4th day of
classes.
He reported that Erica McNamara and Sara Burd will be at the next School
Committee meeting and part of the discussion will be an update on the work that
has been done by the Behavioral Health Task Force in the past 18 months.
Dr. Doherty handed out a memorandum outlining the search process to reconvene
the Early Childhood Education Space Needs Working Group. He has
incorporated the School Committee feedback. He explained that the School
Department was waiting to receive the geo-technical survey results as well as the
feasibility report to build at the elementary schools before bringing this item to
the School Committee.
Mr. Caruso pointed out that Mr. Robinson and Mrs. Borawski have been
appointed as the School Committee representatives to the Working Group.
Dr. Doherty also pointed out that a portion of the retaining wall in front of the
high school has shifted. A Structural Engineer has been brought in to survey the
wall and has determined it is in need of repair.
C. New Business (out of order)
FY2015-2025 Capital Plan
Ms. Sybert reviewed the memorandum outlining the reallocation of funds
between fiscal years within the Capital Plan.
Mrs. Colon reviewed the work to be done on the Joshua Eaton roof. The entire
building roof will be replaced in one fiscal year to address several issues. Dr.
Page 3
Snow Dockser asked if consideration had been given to adding solar panels or
other green solutions.
Dr. Doherty said that solar is not a feasible option at this time.
Mrs. Borawski asked about the work to be done in the Parker Middle School
Multipurpose Room.
Mrs. Colon said that the roof is in need of repair and the possibility of doing some
HVAC work.
Dr. Snow Dockser wanted to be sure that the $75,000 allotted for technology was
not for additional devices. The Superintendent indicated those funds will be used
to support/improve our network and server capacities.
Mr. Robinson moved,seconded by Mrs. Borawski,to approve the outlined
revisions to the FY2015-2025 Capital Plan totaling$664,000. The motion
carried 6-0.
Chair Caruso thanked Mrs. Colon for overseeing the concrete work and requested
that the columns be uniformly painted to match. He was happy the RISE
playground is available to our students.
D. Continued Business
Naming of Facilities Sub-Committee Report
Mr. Caruso updated the School Committee on the recent meetings of the Naming
of Facilities Sub-Committee. He shared concerns the sub-committee had
discussed regarding the process. The sub-committee felt the application itself is
too vague and does not have standard requirements. He went onto say that the
sub-committee did not feel they could make informed decisions on the three
nominations for this past year without supplemental information. Another
concern was the naming of"things" in the district and the possibility of"running
out of stuff to name". While some applications named specific areas; others left it
up to the sub-committee to determine the appropriate spot.
Chair Caruso reviewed the possibility of the creation of"The Reading Public
Schools Distinguished Service Award". The Naming Sub-Committee discussed
this idea at their August meeting. The Award would be a way to honor and
recognize truly extraordinary, one-of-a-kind Reading educators, administrators
and staff. The sub-committee would like to suggest changes to the current School
Committee policy to make the process clearer and more thorough by using some
of the language outlined in"The Reading Public Schools Distinguished Service
Award" draft policy.
Mr. Robinson asked if the sub-committee was requesting changes in the current
policy. Mr. Caruso said they were suggesting changes to the policy.
School Committee members like the idea of this award and asked clarifying
questions.
Page 14
Mr. Robinson suggested that the Naming Sub-Committee collaborated with the
RMHS Hall of Fame committee for guidance and suggestions.
Chair Caruso will report back to the sub-committee with the information from
tonight's discussion.
Mr. Robinson asked about the sub-committee's policy revision recommendations.
Dr. Doherty indicated they were forthcoming.
Mrs. Webb asked about the status of the current nominations.
Mr. Caruso said no action has been taken on the three nominations and hopes that
once the School Committee makes a decision on the proposed Educator Hall of
Fame, the three applicants will be asked to resubmit their nominations.
E. New Business
First Reading of Policy JICFB —Bullying Prevention
Dr. Doherty shared the changes made to the policy.
Mr. Robinson began the second reading of Policy JICFB
Mrs. Borawski moved, seconded by Mrs. Webb to suspend further reading of
the policy. The motion carried 6-0.
Mr.Nihan would like to have a clearer definition of bullying.
Superintendent Doherty said the changes are based on the law and have been
reviewed by counsel.
Ms. Sybert left the meeting at 8:59 p.m.
School Committee members asked clarifying questions on definitions and
procedures.
Dr. Doherty indicated that the policy has been reviewed by Counsel and a
significant amount of time was put into writing this policy.
Ms. Sybert returned to the meeting at 9:01 p.m.
Dr. Doherty also shared that Counsel is well versed in these matters.
Mr. Caruso agreed that the definition of bullying does not define it clearly for the
common person.
Mrs. Webb asked if the principal received a written report prior to taking action.
Dr. Doherty said they do not.
Dr. Snow Dockser stated that a report can be made by the target or anonymously
and feels in some cases a phone call would be appropriate.
Page 15
Dr. Doherty suggested that the School Committee submit any changes to the
policy to him.
Mr. Robinson moved, seconded by Mr.Nihan to accept the first reading of
Policy JICFB—Bullying Prevention. The motion carried 6-0.
First Reading of Policy ACAB/ACAC—Discrimination&Harassment Grievance
Procedure
Dr. Doherty provided an overview of the revised policy.
Mr. Robinson began the second reading of Policy ACAB/ACAC—Discrimination
&Harassment Grievance Procedure.
Mrs. Borawski moved,seconded by Mrs. Webb to suspend the reading of the
policy. The motion carried 6-0.
Dr. Doherty indicated that most of the revisions were minor and tied to the
harassment prevention order.
Discussion continued regarding the policy and the Committee asked clarifying
questions.
Mr.Nihan asked if the students were aware of the process. Dr. Doherty did not
specifically know the answer but said that it is important to develop a school
culture where students are comfortable to confide in an adult regarding
harassment and discrimination matters.
Mrs. Webb pointed out that parents sign off that they have read the policy at the
beginning of each school year.
Mr. Robinson moved,seconded by Mrs. Borawski,to accept the first reading
of revised policy ACAB/ACAC—Discrimination & Harassment Grievance
Procedure. The motion carried 6-0.
III. Routine Matters
a. Bills and Payroll (A)
The following warrants were circulated and signed.
Warrant 51510 8.28.14 $221,417.39
Warrant S1511 9.4.14 $276,951.51
b. Minutes (A)
Mrs. Borawski moved,seconded by Mr. Robinson,to approve the open
session minutes dated August 25,2014. The motion carried 6-0.
c. Bids and Donations (A)
Donation
Page 16
RMHS BPO
Mrs. Borawski moved, seconded by Mr. Robinson, to accept the donation in
the amount of$3,100 from the RMHS Band Parents Organization to be used
to support band staff. The motion carried 6-0.
d. Calendar
IV.Information
Mr.Nihan apologized for his strong stance of opposing all overnight field trips. He
would like to receive more information to allow for an educated decision.
Chair Caruso reported Office Hours were held this evening prior to the meeting. He
reminded the Committee of the Financial Forum on Wednesday evening and the next
meeting is September 22°d
V. Future Business
VI.Adjournment
Mr. Robinson moved, seconded by Mr. Nihan, to adjourn.
The meeting adjourned at 9:26 p.m.
NOTE: The minutes reflect the order as stated in the posted meeting agenda not
the order they occurred during the meeting.
Page 1 7
2014-2015 School Committee Meeting Date
School Presenting @ mtg.
Sept. 22nd School Committee
Oct. 1st RCASA Annual Meeting Endslow Performing Arts Centel
Oct. 6th School Committee Joshua Eaton Office Hours Borawski &Snow-Dockser
Oct.8th FinForum 7:30 p.m. Sr.Center
Oct. 20th School Committee Coolidge
Oct. 23rd World Café Field House
Oct. 29th FinForum 7:30 p.m. Sr.Center
Nov. 3rd School Committee Office Hours Robinson&Webb
Nov.4th State Election
Nov. 10th Town Meeting
Nov. 13th Town Meeting
Nov.l7th Town Meeting
Nov. 20th Town Meeting
Nov. 24th School Committee Barrows
Dec. 1st School Committee Office Hours Snow-Dockser&Nihan
Dec. 15th School Committee Wood End
Jan. 8th School Committee Office Hours FY2016 Budget
Jan. 12th School Committee FY2016 Budget
Jan.l5th School Committee FY2016 Budget
Jan. 22nd School Committee FY2016 Budget-Public Hearing
Jan. 26th School Committee
Jan.28th FinForum 7:30 p.m. Sr.Center
Feb.2nd School Committee FY2016 Budget-Vote
Feb. 9th School Committee Office Hours Caruso&Robinson
Feb. 23rd School Committee RMHS
March 9th School Committee Parker Office Hours
March 18th FY16 Budget Presentation Finance Committee
March 23rd School Committee Birch Meadow
April 6th School Committee Office Hours Webb&Borawski
April 7th Local Election
April 27th Town Meeting
April 28th School Committee Killam
April 30th Town Meeting
May 4th Town Meeting
May 7th Town Meeting
May 11th School Committee RISE Office Hours School Choice
May 18th 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.
2014-2015 School Committee Meeting Date
June 1st School Committee Office Hours
June 15th School Committee
9.18.14
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.