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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2014-11-03 School Committee Packet School Committee Meeting November 3 , 2014 Coolidge Multipurpose Room Office Hours 6:30 P.M. Open Session 7:00 P.M. _ " Town of Reading ir: ,... Meeting Posting with Agenda , Jd{ 8 i gg Board - Committee - Commission - Council: School Committee Date: 2014-11-03 Time: 7:00 PM Building: School - Coolidge Location: Community Room Address: 89 Birch Meadow Drive 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. Second Reading and Acceptance of Policy IJOA—Student Field Trips(A) 2. Second Reading of Policy JICFB—Bullying Prevention (A) D. New Business 1. MCAS Presentation (I) 2. Approval of Field Trips(A) Harvard Model UN Conference RMHS Drama Trip to New York City RMHS Interact Club to New York City E. Routine Matters 1. Bills and Payroll (A) 2. Minutes(A) October 20,2014 3. Bids and Donations(A) Accept Donations to RMHS Accept a Donation to RISE Preschool 4. Calendar(I) This Agenda has been prepared in advance and represents a listing of topics that the chair reasonably anticipates will be discussed at the meeting.However the agenda does not necessarily include all matters which may be taken up at this meeting. Page I 1 41)) Town of Reading ��' Meeting Posting with Agenda i `Y 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. Craig Martin Superintendent of Schools Assistant Superintendent for Learning and Teaching 82 Oakland Road Reading,MA 01867 Martha J.Sybert Phone:781-944-5800 ,r Fax:781-942-9149 Director of Finance as Operations gip' 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: October 30, 2014 TOPIC: Second Reading of Revised Policy JICFB—Bullying Prevention At our meeting on Monday evening I will ask the School Committee to approve the second reading and accept the Revised Policy JICFB—Bullying Prevention. I have attached a copy of the revised policy that has been reviewed by Counsel to ensure the verbiage meets the requirements of the law. If you have any questions, please contact me. The Reading Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race,color,sex,gender identity,religion,national origin,sexual orientation,age or disability. File: JICFB BULLYING PREVENTION The Reading Public Schools is committed to providing a safe, positive and productive educational environment where students can achieve the highest academic standards. No student shall be subjected to harassment, intimidation, bullying, or cyberbullying. POLICIES AND PROCEDURES FOR REPORTING AND RESPONDING TO BULLYING AND RETALIATION The Reading Public Schools has implemented the following procedures to receive and respond to reports of bullying or retaliation. This policy and procedures will ensure that members of the school community—students, parents, and staff— know what will happen when incidents of bullying occur. All reporting forms and procedures will be shared with all school staff members and parents and guardians at the beginning of school each year , included in new student packets throughout the year, and posted on each school's and the district websites. An anonymous reporting procedure will also be available to families. Anyone who files a report will be informed of the next steps in the investigatory process. Specific follow through from report will be communicated in a manner consistent with the Reading Public Schools' legal obligations regarding confidentiality. _._. _ •_ _ _ _ .• __ • _• _ _ _ •- _. •. • •. • _ . involved. A. Definition-Bullying Prohibited Bullying may take a variety of forms. It is unacceptable in a school or work environment. As a result, no student or employee shall be subjected to harassment, intimidation, bullying, or cyber-bullying in a public educational institute: 1. "Bullying" means the repeated use by one or more students or by a member of school staff including, but not limited to, an educator, administrator, school nurse, cafeteria worker, custodian, bus driver, athletic coach, advisor to an extracurricular activity or paraprofessional of an unwelcome written, verbal or electronic expression or a physical act or gesture or any combination thereof, directed at a target that: (i) causes physical or emotional harm to the target or damage the target's property; student or employee, (ii) places the target in reasonable fear of harm to himself or of damage to his property; (iii) creates a hostile environment at school for the target; (iv) infringes on the rights of the target at school; or(v) materially and substantially disrupts the education process or the orderly operation of a school. For the purposes of this section, bullying shall include cyber-bullying. The behavior must interfere with a student's academic performance or ability to learn, or interfere with a student's ability to participate in or benefit from services, activities, or privileges: a. that are being offered through the school district; or b. During any education program or activity; or c. While in school, on school equipment or property, in school vehicles, on school buses, at designated school bus stops, at school-sponsored activities, at school-sanctioned events; or 2. "Cyber-bullying" means, bullying through the use of technology or any electronic communication, which shall include, but shall not be limited to, any transfer of signs, signals, writing, images, sounds, data or intelligence of any nature transmitted in whole or in part by a wire, radio, electromagnetic, photoelectronic or photo optical system, including but not limited to, electronic mail, internet communications, instant messages or facsimile communication. Cyber-bullying shall also include (i) knowing impersonation of another person as the author of posted content or messages, if the creator or impersonation creates any of the conditions enumerated in clauses (i)to (v), inclusive, of the definition of bullying. Cyber-bullying shall also include the distribution by electronic means of a communication to more than one person or the posting of material on an electronic medium that may be accessed by one or persons. a. Cyber-bullying may occur through the use of data, telephone or computer software that is accessed through a computer, computer system, or computer network or any public education institute. b. As used in this Section, "electronic communication" also means any communication through an electronic device including, but not limited to a telephone, cellular phone, computer or pager. 3. "Aggressor" is a student or member of a school staff including, but not limited to, an educator, administrator, school nurse, cafeteria worker, custodian, bus driver, athletic coach, advisor to an extracurricular activity or paraprofessional who engages in bullying, cyber-bullying, or retaliation. 4. "Target" is a student-against whom bullying, cyber-bullying, or retaliation has been perpetrated. I Bullying is prohibited and the RPS will intervene when prohibited actions occur; • On school grounds; • On property immediately adjacent to school grounds; • At school-sponsored or school-related activities; • At functions or programs whether on or off school grounds; • At school bus stops; • On school buses or other vehicles owned, leased or used by the school district; or, • Through the use of technology or an electronic device owned, leased or used by the Reading Public Schools. Bullying and cyber-bullying are prohibited. The RPS will take appropriate actioni^te fv when the conduct occurs prohibited actions occur at a location, activity, function or program that is not school-related or through the use of technology or an electronic device that is not owned, leased or used by the Reading school district only if the act or acts in question: • create a hostile environment at school for the target; • infringe on the rights of the target at school; and/or • materially and substantially disrupts the education process or the orderly operation of a school. The following procedures are based on the requirements of M.G.L. c. 71, § 370. In addition to the requirements of M.G.L. c. 71, § 370, where the alleged conduct is on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, disability or religion, the district should also consider whether the conduct constitutes a hostile environment based on those protected classes, consistent with its Discrimination and Harassment Grievance Procedures. A. Reporting bullying or retaliation. Reports of bullying or retaliation may be made by staff, students, parents or guardians, or others, and may be oral or written. Oral reports made by or to a staff member will be recorded in writing. A school or district staff member is required to report immediately to the principal or designee any instance of bullying or retaliation the staff member becomes aware of or witnesses. Reports made by students, parents or guardians, or other individuals who are not school or district staff members, may be made anonymously. The school or district will make a variety of reporting resources available to the school community including, but not limited to, an Incident Reporting Form,' a dedicated mailing address, and an email address. Use of an Incident Reporting Form is not required as a condition of making a report. The school or district will: 1) include a copy of the Incident Reporting Form in the beginning of the year packets for students and parents or guardians; 2) make it available in the school's main office, the counseling office, the school nurse's office, and other locations determined by the principal or designee; and 3) post it on the school's website. The Incident Reporting Form will be made available in the most prevalent language(s) of origin of students and parents or guardians. At the beginning of each school year, the school or district will provide the school community, including administrators, staff, students, and parents or guardians, with written notice of its policies for reporting acts of bullying and retaliation. A description of the reporting procedures and resources, including the name and contact information of the principal or designee, will be incorporated in student and staff handbooks, on the school or district website, and in information about the Plan that is made available to parents or guardians. 1. Reporting by Staff A staff member will report immediately to the principal or designee when he/she witnesses or becomes aware of conduct that may be bullying or retaliation. The requirement to report to the principal or designee does not limit the authority of the staff member to respond to behavioral or disciplinary incidents consistent with school or district policies and procedures for behavior management and discipline. 2. Reporting by Students, Parents or Guardians, and Others The school or district expects students, parents or guardians, and others who witness or become aware of an instance of bullying or retaliation involving a student to report it to the principal or designee. Reports may be made anonymously, but no disciplinary action will be ' See Appendix for Reporting Form. taken against an alleged aggressor solely on the basis of an anonymous report. Students, parents or guardians,and others may request assistance from a staff member to complete a written report. Students will be provided practical,safe,private and age-appropriate ways to report and discuss an incident of bullying with a staff member,or with the principal or designee. Please note: `Nothing in this policy shall be construed to limit personnel's ability to call 911 Formatted:Font:(Default)Arial,11 pt where a threat to safety of the student and/or other individuals is present. if_there is.concerned._ _. Formatted:Font:(Default)Arial,11 pt about anyone's immediate physical safety, please call 911 first,then notify an administrator. Formatted:Font:(Default)Arial,11 pt B. Responding to a report of bullying or retaliation. 1. Safety Before fully investigating the allegations of bullying or retaliation,the principal or designee will take steps to assess the need to restore a sense of safety to the alleged target and/or to protect the alleged target from possible further incidents. Responses to promote safety may include,but not be limited to,creating a personal safety plan;pre-determining seating arrangements for the target and/or the aggressor in the classroom,at lunch,or on the bus; identifying a staff member who will act as a"safe person"for the target;and altering the aggressor's schedule and access to the target. The principal or designee will take additional steps to promote safety during the course of and after the investigation, as necessary. Interventions will consider the rights of both the target and the aggressor, including both the consideration of remedial and disciplinary measures for the aggressor as appropriate.; In determining the steps necessary to restore a sense of safety to the alleged target and/or to protect the alleged target from possible further incidents,the principal or designee shall consider that certain students may be more vulnerable to becoming a target of bullying or harassment based on actual or perceived differentiating characteristics, including race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin,sex,socioeconomic status, homelessness, academic status,gender identity or expression,physical appearance, pregnant or parenting status, sexual orientation,mental, physical,developmental or sensory disability or by association with a person who has or is perceived to have one or more of these characteristics. The principal or designee will implement appropriate strategies for protecting from bullying or retaliation a student or staff member who has reported bullying or retaliation,a student or staff member who has witnessed bullying or retaliation,a student or staff member who provides information during an investigation,or a student or staff member who has reliable information about a reported act of bullying or retaliation 2. Obligations to Notify Others a. Notice to parents or guardians. Upon determining that bullying or retaliation has occurred,the principal or designee will promptly notify the parents or guardians of the target and the aggressor of this,and of the procedures for responding to it. There may be circumstances in which the principal or designee contacts parents or guardians prior to any investigation. Notice will be consistent with state regulations at 603 CMR 49.00. b. Notice to Another School or District. If the reported incident involves students from more than one school district, charter school, non-public school, approved private special education day or residential school,or collaborative school,the principal or designee first informed of the incident will promptly notify by telephone the principal or designee of the other school(s)of the incident so that each school may take appropriate action. All communications will be in accordance with state and federal privacy laws and regulations,and 603 CMR 49.00. c. Notice to Law Enforcement. At any point after receiving a report of bullying or retaliation, including after an investigation, if the principal or designee has a reasonable basis to believe that criminal charges may be pursued against the aggressor,the principal will notify the Reading Police Department. Notice will be consistent with the requirements of 603 CMR 49.00 and locally established agreements with the local law enforcement agency. Also, if an incident occurs on school grounds and involves a former student who is no longer enrolled in school,the principal or designee shall contact the Reading Police Department if he or she has a reasonable basis to believe that criminal charges may be pursued against the aggressor. In making this determination,the principal will, consistent with the Plan and with applicable school or district policies and procedures,consult with the school resource officer, if any, and other individuals the principal or designee deems appropriate. C. Investigation. Upon receipt of a report or complaint that would, if true,constitute bullying, cyber bullying, or retaliation,the principal will promptly commence an investigation. If there is concern for physical harm of a student or student,the principal shall take interim measures reasonably calculated to ensure the safety of the student or students during the pendency of the investigation. In investigating any such complaint,the principal or designee will interview students,staff,and any witnesses to the alleged conduct.To the extent practicable and consistent with the principal's obligation to act promptly and to thoroughly investigate and address the matter,the principal or designee will maintain confidentiality during the investigative process and shall not disclose unnecessary or confidential information to interview subjects. During any such interviews,the principal will inform the target,aggressor,and all witnesses that retaliatory treatment of any individual for reporting or lack of cooperation with an investigation of bullying will result in disciplinary action may include suspension or expulsion from school. Interviews may be conducted by the principal or designee,other staff members as determined by the principal or designee, and in consultation with the school counselor,as appropriate. To the extent practicable, and given his/her obligation to investigate and address the matter,the principal or designee will maintain confidentiality during the investigative process. Procedures for investigating reports of bullying and retaliation will be consistent with school or district policies and procedures for bullying investigations. If necessary,the principal or designee will consult with legal counsel about the investigation. At any point after receipt of a report of bullying or retaliation, including after an investigation, the principal shall notify the Reading Police Department and School Resource Officer if the principal has a reasonable basis to believe that criminal charges may be pursued against the aggressor. Notice shall be consistent with the requirements of 603 CMR 49.00 and established agreements with the local law enforcement agency.The principal shall document the reasons for his or her decision to notify law enforcement. Nothing in this section shall be interpreted to require reporting to a law enforcement agency in situations in which bullying and retaliation can be handled appropriately within the school district or school. D. Determinations. Within fifteen(15)school days of the principal's receipt of the complaint of bullying, cyber bullying,or retaliation,the principal will make a determination based upon all the facts and circumstances. •- - • • = _::. - °, e - '• happon ^^�+ If,after the investigation, bullying or retaliation is substantiated,the principal will determine what remedial action may be required, if any,and determine what responsive actions and/or disciplinary action is necessary.The principal will also consider what disciplinary and/or remedial measures are reasonably calculated to eliminate the bullying and to prevent its reoccurrence.The principal's findings and determinations shall be documented in writing on the Incident Reporting Form. If the principal or designee determines that a student knowingly made a false allegation of bullying or retaliation,that student may be subject to disciplinary action. Depending upon the circumstances,the principal or designee may choose to consult with the students'teacher(s)and/or school counselor, and the target's or aggressor's parents or guardians,to identify any underlying social or emotional issue(s)that may have contributed to the bullying behavior and to assess the level of need for additional social skills development. E. Notice of Investigative Findings Upon determining that bullying or retaliation has occurred,the principal or designee will promptly notify parents or guardians of the target and aggressor of this,and of the procedures for responding to it.While prior notice of an investigation shall not be required, the principal shall not be precluded from notifying the parents of a target or aggressor prior to completion of the principal's investigation.This communication will be done in the primary language of the home. In notifying the parents of a target or aggressor of an investigation or the principal's findings • --- Formatted:Left,Indent:Left: 0.25", thereon,the principal shall maintain the privacy and confidentiality of any individual or child Widow/Orphan control,Don't adjust space who is not the child of the parents to whom the notice is provided.The principal shall ensure space Latin and Asian text,Don't adjust p P P P ' space between Asian text and numbers that any notice to the parents complies with applicable state regulations including, but not limited to,603 CMR 49.00, and shall not report specific information to the target's parent(s) about the disciplinary action taken against an aggressor unless it involves a"stay away" order or other directive that the target must be aware of in order to report violations. The notice to the parents or guardians of the victim shall include information about the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education's("DESE")problem resolution system and the process for seeking assistance or filing a claim through the problem resolution system.The parents of the victim should be provided the following contact information:Program Quality Assurance Services, Massachusetts Department of Formatted:Font:(Default)Arial,11 pt Elementary and Secondary Education,75 Pleasant Street, Malden,MA 02148-4906, Telephone: 781-338-3700;TTY: N.E.T. Relay: 1-800-439-2370. _ _- {Formatted:Font:(Default)Arial,11 pt F. Requests for Reconsideration If either the complaining party or the individual against whom the complaint was made is dissatisfied with the outcome of the investigation,that person may request, in writing, a reopening of the investigation or reconsideration of the investigative findings.The written request shall state the reasons for request and shall be delivered to the Superintendent of the Reading Public Schools within ten(10)school days or the parents'/guardians' receipt of notice of the investigative findings.Within five(5)school days of receipt of any such request, the superintendent shall decide whether or not to reopen the investigation and shall provide written notification of that determination to the appealing party and to the other party involved. The filing of a request for reconsideration or a reopening of the investigation shall not stay the imposition of disciplinary sanctions or the implementation of any safety interventions determined to be appropriate by the principal. G. Responses to Bullying 1. Teaching Appropriate Behavior Through Skills-building Upon the principal or designee determining that bullying,cyber-bullying,or retaliation has occurred,the law requires that the school or district use a range of responses that balance the need for accountability with the need to teach appropriate behavior. M.G.L.c. 71,§ 37O(d)(vi). Reading Public Schools administrators and staff may consider the following skill- building approaches: • offering individualized skill-building sessions based on the school's/district's anti- bullying curricula; • providing relevant educational activities for individual students or groups of students, in consultation with guidance counselors and other appropriate school personnel; • implementing a range of academic and nonacademic positive behavioral supports to help students understand pro-social ways to achieve their goals; • meeting with parents and guardians to engage parental support and to reinforce the anti-bullying curricula and social skills building activities at home; • adopting behavioral plans to include a focus on developing specific social skills and • including offerings,supports and,where appropriate, individual behavior plans addressing the recognition that certain students may be more vulnerable to _- Formatted:Font:(Default)Arial,11 pt becoming a target of bullying or harassment based on actual or perceived differentiating characteristics, including race,color, religion, ancestry, national origin, sex, socioeconomic status, homelessness, academic status,gender identity or expression,physical appearance, pregnant or parenting status, sexual orientation, mental, physical,developmental or sensory disability or by association with a person who has or is perceived to have one or more of these characteristics. 2. Taking Disciplinary Action If the principal or designee decides that disciplinary action is appropriate,the disciplinary action will be determined on the basis of facts found by the principal or designee, including the nature of the conduct,the age of the student(s)involved, and the need to balance accountability with the teaching of appropriate behavior. Discipline will be consistent with the Plan and with the school's or district's code of conduct. Possible consequences to serious incidents of bullying include suspension and expulsion from school. Discipline procedures for students with disabilities are governed by the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act(IDEA),which should be read in cooperation with state laws regarding student discipline. If the principal or designee determines that a student knowingly made a false allegation of bullying or retaliation,that student may be subject to disciplinary action. 3. Promoting Safety for the Target and Others The principal or designee will consider what adjustments, if any,are needed in the school environment to enhance the targets sense of safety and that of others as well One strategy that the principal or designee may use is to increase adult supervision at transition times and in locations where bullying is known to have occurred or is likely to occur. He/she may also implement a safety plan. In developing a safety plan,the principal or designee shall consider that certain students may be more vulnerable to becoming a target of bullying or harassment based on actual or perceived differentiating characteristics, including race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, sex,socioeconomic status, homelessness, academic status,gender identity or expression, physical appearance,pregnant or parenting status, sexual orientation, mental,physical,developmental or sensory disability or by association with a person who has or is perceived to have one or more of these characteristics. Within a reasonable period of time following the determination and the ordering of remedial and/or disciplinary action,the principal or designee will contact the target to determine whether there has been a recurrence of the prohibited conduct and whether additional supportive measures are needed. If so,the principal or designee will work with appropriate school staff to implement them immediately. VI. COLLABORATION WITH FAMILIES Reading Public Schools is committed to promoting a strong home-school partnership regarding bullying prevention. Each school will provide information to families that will support common language across the district as well as sharing prevention and identification strategies.Communication between home and school will be via school notices,school and district web sites, and parent conferences/presentations on a regular basis. It will also focus on school and district-specific approaches to collaboration which will take into account age,climate,socio-economic factors, linguistic,and cultural make-up of students and the parents. A. Parent education and resources. The school or district will offer education programs for parents and guardians that are focused on the parental components of the anti-bullying curricula and any social competency curricula used by the district or school. The programs will be offered in collaboration with the PTO,School Councils, Special Education Parent Advisory Council,or similar organizations. A. Notification requirements. Each year the school will inform parents or guardians of enrolled students about the bullying prevention curricula that are being used.This notice will include information about how parents and guardians can reinforce the curriculum at home and support the school district or school plan,the dynamics of bullying, including cyber-bullying and online safety. The school or district will send parents written notice each year about the student-related sections of the Plan and the school's or district's Internet safety policy. All notices and information made available to parents or guardians will be in hard copy and electronic formats, and will be available in the language(s)most prevalent among parents or guardians. The school or district will post the Plan and the district Bullying Prevention and Harassment Policy and related information on its website. VII. PROHIBITION AGAINST BULLYING AND RETALIATION The following information will be included in the Bullying Prevention Plan, all student handbooks,staff handbooks,and in the student code of conduct in accordance with M.G.L. c. 71, §37O(b). Acts of bullying,which include cyber-bullying, are prohibited: (1) Bullying shall be prohibited on school grounds, property immediately adjacent to school grounds, at a school-sponsored or school-related activity,function or program whether on or off school grounds, at a school bus stop,on a school bus or other vehicle owned, leased or used by a school district or school,or through the use of technology or an electronic device owned, leased or used by a school district or school. Bullying at a location,activity,function or program that is not school-related,or through the use of technology or an electronic device that is not owned, leased or used by a school district or school,shall be prohibited if the bullying: (a)creates a hostile environment at school for the target; (b)infringes on the rights of the target at school; or(c)materially and substantially disrupts the education process or the orderly operation of a school. Retaliation means any form of intimidation, reprisal or harassment directed against a person who reports bullying, provides information during an investigation about bullying,or witnesses or has reliable information about bullying. As stated in M.G.L. c. 71,§370, nothing in this Plan requires the district or school to staff any non-school related activities,functions, or programs. IX. RELATIONSHIP TO OTHER LAWS Consistent with state and federal laws, and the policies of the Reading Public Schools, no person shall be discriminated against in admission to a public school in Reading or in obtaining the advantages, privilege and courses of study of such public school on account of race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age,gender identity,disability,or sexual orientation. Nothing in the plan prevents the school or district from taking action to remediate discrimination or harassment based on a person's membership in a legally protected category under local, state, or federal law,or school or district policies including its Discrimination and Harassment Grievance Procedures.- I In addition, nothing in the Plan is designed or intended to limit the authority of the school or • --i Formatted:Indent:Left: 0" district to take disciplinary action or other action under M.G.L.c.71,§§37H or 37HY2, other applicable laws, or local school or district policies in response to violent, harmful,or disruptive behavior, regardless of whether the Plan covers the behavior. REFERENCES: Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education's Model Bullying Prevention and Intervention Plan LEGAL REFS.: Title VII, Section 703, Civil Rights Act of 1964 as amended Federal Regulation 74676 issued by EEO Commission Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 603 CMR 26.00 MGL 71:370 MGL 265:43,43A MGL 268:13B MGL 269:14A CROSS REFS.: AC, Nondiscrimination ACAB,Sexual Harassment JBA, Student-to-Student Harassment JICFA, Prohibition of Hazing JK,Student Discipline Regulations Adopted by the Reading School Committee on December 9,2013 APPENDIX A BULLYING INCIDENT REPORTING FORM READING PUBLIC SCHOOLS *If concerned about anyone's immediate physical safety,please call 91 1 first,then notify an administrator. 1.Name of Reporter. (Note:Reports may be made anonymously,but no disciplinary action will be taken against an alleged aggressor solely on the basis of an anonymous report.) 2.Check whether you are the: ❑ Target of the behavior ❑ Reporter(not the target) 3. Check whether you are a: Ltudent Ltaff member(specify role) El Parent Qldministrator ❑Dther(specify) 4.State your school or work site: ❑ RMHS ❑ Coolidge ❑ Parker ❑Wood End ❑ Eaton ❑ Killam El Birch Meadow❑ Barrows 5.Information about the Incident: Name of Target(of behavior) Name of Aggressor(alleged bully): Date(s)of Incident(s): Time When Incident(s)Occurred Location of Incident(s) (Be specific.) 6.Witnesses(List of people who saw the incident or have information about it): Name: ❑ Student Cl Staff ❑Other Name: ❑Student ❑Staff ❑Other Name: ❑ Student ❑Staff ❑Other 7.Describe the details of the incident(including names of people involved,what occurred, and what each person did and said,including specific words used). Please use additional space on the back,if necessary. FOR ADMINISTRATIVE USE ONLY 8.Signature of Person Filing this Report: Date: (Note:Reports may be filed anonymously;however,an individual may not be subject to discipline on the basis of an anonymous report of bullying) 9. Form given to Position: Date: APPENDIX B BULLYING INCIDENT INVESTIGATION FORM READING PUBLIC SCHOOLS *If concerned about anyone's immediate physical safety,please call 911 first,then notify an administrator. Signature: Date Received: 1.Investigator(s): Position(s): 2.Interviews: (interviewed aggressor Name: CEP/504 Date: interviewed target Name: E3EP/504 Date: [Interviewed witnesses Name: EIEP/504 Date: Name: ❑IEP/504 Date: 3.Any prior documented incidents by the aggressor? ❑Yes Cl�lo If yes,have incidents involved target or target group previously? ❑Yes ❑No Any previous incidents with findings of bullying or retaliation? ❑Yes ❑ No Summary of Investigation: (Please use additional paper and attach to this document as needed.) CONCLUSIONS FROM THE INVESTIGATION 1.Finding of bullying or retaliation: OYES ENO ❑ Bullying ❑ Incident documented ❑ Retaliation ❑ Discipline referral only 2.Contacts: ❑ Target's parent/guardian Date: ❑Aggressor's parent/guardian Date: ❑ Law Enforcement Date: 3.Action Taken: ❑ Loss of Privileges ❑Detention ❑ Suspension Dates Excluded: ❑ Community Service ❑Education Other 4.Describe Safety Planning: Follow-up with Target: Scheduled for Initial&date when completed: Follow-up with Aggressor:Scheduled for Initial&date when completed: Report forwarded to Principal:Date (If principal was not the investigator) Signature and Title: Date: APPENDIX D Reading Public Schools BULLYING PREVENTION AND INTERVENTION INCIDENT ONLINE REPORTING FORM *If concerned about anyone's immediate physical safety,please call 911 first,then notify an administrator. ---{Formatted:Left (Note: Reports made anonymously will be investigated but no disciplinary action will be taken against an alleged aggressor solely on the basis of an anonymous report.) Name of Reporting/Person Filing the Report:(Not Required) Check whether you are the: ▪ Target of the behavior Reporter(not the target) • Student • Staff Member(Specify) Check whether you are a: + Parent • Administrator Other(Specify) Your contact information/telephone number: If student,state your school and Nq NA grade School: Grade: If staff member,state your school or work site: SchoolfWorkSite:l Information about the Incident: Name of Target(of behavior): School and Grade of Target , NA NIA School: Grade: Name of Aggressor(Person who engaged in the behavior): School and Grade or Title of the Aggressor School: - Grade: NA Date(s)of Incident(s): Time When Incident(s)occurred: Location of Incident(s)(Be as specific as possible): ai]Is there an online/Internet component of this incident please describe? Witnesses(List people who saw the incident or have information about it): Witness 1: Witness 2: Witness 3: Describe the details of the incident (including names of people involved, what occurred,and what each person did and said including specific words used). 4 1____1 Subrrit I Reset John F.Doherty,Ed.D. Craig Martin Superintendent of Schools Assistant Superintendent for Learning and Teaching 82 Oakland Road Reading,MA 01867 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: October 30, 2014 TOPIC: Second Reading Revised Policy IJOA—Field Trips At our meeting on Monday evening I will ask the School Committee to approve the second reading and accept revised policy IJOA -Field Trips. 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. Policy IJOA READING SCHOOL COMMITTEE POLICY ON STUDENT FIELD TRIPS Academic Field Trips The Reading School Committee(SC) recognizes that academic field trips are an extension of the classroom experience that expand and reinforce concepts learned in the classroom and can provide new and unique experiences not available in the classroom setting.An academic field trip is defined as a visit to a location beyond school grounds that has a direct relationship to a curricular field. Reading Public Schools will sponsor academic field trips for students only when trips meet the following criteria: • Time and Learning—The trips are appropriate for the age groups involved and the learning activities associated with the field trip map to the curriculum frameworks and satisfy time and learning requirements. • Equal Opportunity/Accessibility-The right of a student to participate in any school-sponsored program is not infringed upon or impaired because of gender, race,ethnicity, color, national origin, ancestry, religion,sexual orientation, or disability group,or any other reason not related to his/her individual capabilities. • Students with Disabilities-Any concern about the safety or appropriateness of a disabled student's participation in a field trip will be referred to the student's liaison (if a special education student)or to the Section 504 Coordinator(if the student is on a Section 504 plan), whichever may be applicable,for the scheduling of a Team Meeting.The Team will review the concern, review any other relevant documents, make a Team determination how the student can participate and what, if any, accommodations are necessary for the student's participation in the field trip. • Affordability-Field trips should be affordable and accessible to all qualified and interested students. Students may be allowed but not required to participate in reasonable group fundraising efforts to defray the cost of field trips. No student is denied the opportunity to participate in an academic day field trip because of the inability to pay. • Scheduling-Trips are not scheduled during the State Assessment examination periods for students taking the MCAS/PARCC exams. If unique and special circumstances present an academic opportunity,the principal and superintendent will consider and evaluate each request with care. • Teacher Supervision-While there must be adequate supervision,the principal must also minimize the number of teachers missing classes due to chaperoning. • Educational Alternatives-Students who cannot participate in field trips shall receive educational alternatives that have related academic and intellectual value. Instruction of students unable to attend the field trip should not be lessened due to an inability to attend. Students who attend school in lieu of a field trip can received regular classroom instruction as an educational alternative. • Health and Safety-The health and safety of students and staff are given utmost consideration in the approval, planning and conduct of all school-sponsored trips. Staff involved in planning a field trip will include the District nursing staff in the planning process in accordance with the District nursing protocol to determine specific health/medical needs of students,the inclusion of nursing staff on the field trip, or other medical care required. • Student Behavior-Students participating in any type of field trip are required to adhere to school rules and regulations. Attendance on school-sponsored trips is not a student's right, but a privilege. No student may attend such a trip if, in the determination of the principal or his/her designee as part of disciplinary action unrelated to a disability,the student's behavior has been so inappropriate or antisocial as to be deemed disruptive to the planned trip. • Supervision-Staff from the requesting school direct the trip,and a staff member is identified as the Staff-in-Charge and is in attendance to ensure compliance with this policy. • Transportation—Reading Public Schools uses its regular contracted bus service for most field trips. Use of vans and private automobiles for field trips without prior approval from the Superintendent of Schools,or designee, is prohibited.A field trip that proposes to use private passenger vehicles must follow the guidelines in School Committee Policy EEAG and must be submitted in advance to the Superintendent of Schools,or designee,for review of the trip itinerary,driver information (license, adequate insurance coverage, liability release form, CORI,SAFIS,etc.)and consideration of all safety concerns with respect to the proposed transportation.The Superintendent,or designee,will make the final decision as to the acceptable mode of transportation for the field trip. Selected carriers for late night,overnight or out of state travel must be licensed for passenger transportation by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration(FMCSA). Carriers with an FMCSA safety rating of"conditional" or "unsatisfactory"will not be used.Selected carriers will be prohibited from using subcontractors unless sufficient notice is provided to the district to allow for verification of the subcontractor's qualifications and safety rating.Travel itineraries must allow enough time for drivers to rest in conformance with federal hour-of-service requirements and common sense. If a planned trip exceeds ten (10)consecutive hours of driving, a second driver must be utilized or the driver must be off duty for eight(8)consecutive hours before driving again. Public transportation may also be used,subject to review and approval by the Principal and/or Superintendent, particularly with respect to number of chaperones,time in transit, and accessibility to all students. • Overnight Accommodations(if applicable)-Overnight accommodations at all hotels, motels,or other lodging,with established rules and regulations to ensure student well-being should be made in advance with student safety and security in mind. Accommodations will include enough rooms so that no chaperones are rooming with students. Exchange Programs The School Committee has established foreign exchange programs which have specific requirements and approval processes.All of the above criteria may not be applicable to these programs.The Exchange field trips must follow the same approval process as academic field trips. Enrichment Field Trips An enrichment field trip is defined as attendance at contests, regional events,or other trips beyond the school grounds that is not a part of the curriculum and does not count toward meeting the time and learning requirements. While they may be valuable experiences for students, every effort should be made to mitigate the effect of enrichment field trips on time and learning. Costs associated with enrichment field trips will be the responsibility of the individual student/family. Where appropriate,there may be fund raising to help defray costs. All fundraising must be done in compliance and accordance with Reading Public Schools and individual school policies. The Enrichment field trips must follow the same approval process as academic field trips. Compliance with State Ethics Disclosure of Financial Interest In no event shall staff members involved in organizing and/or attending an approved field trip be compensated, directly or indirectly,from any company,sponsor or others for his or her role in attending the field trip. However,the State Ethics Commission does allow for the costs of the trip for the staff member/chaperone to be covered, in which case the staff members(s)/chaperone(s) must file a Disclosure of Financial Interest Form with the Superintendent and Town Clerk. The Superintendent shall first make the determination that the trip serves a legitimate educational purpose and that the benefits to the students and the education process outweigh the private benefit to the teacher,the tour company and/or the chaperones. Related Definitions: Chaperone-A person, other than a teacher and instructional assistant,age 21 or older,who accompanies and supervises the students on a field trip. A satisfactory Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) check is required of all chaperones and a Statewide Applicant Fingerprint Identification System (SAFIS) is required of any chaperone who is supervising an after school or overnight field trip. Staff-All paid school personnel. Staff-in-Charge-The teacher attending the trip designated to ensure compliance with this policy. Approval Criteria The table below lists the terms used for trips of various lengths and the approval required. Note that out of-state travel requires School Committee approval regardless of the trip length. In no case will a trip exceeding five school days be approved. X-Approval is required by the indicated person. Trip Length Principal Superintendent School Committee Day-Within the School Day X Extended-A visit extending beyond X X the school day, but returning prior to midnight. Overnight-A visit that involves X X X overnight travel (after midnight) and/or overnight stay. Out of State-A visit that involves X X X travel outside of Massachusetts, whether a day trip or an overnight trip. Foreign-A visit to a foreign country. X X X Approval All foreign trips requiring School Committee approval must be received prior to the school year in which the trip is to take place and prior to making any final financial and/or contractual arrangements.All field trips must be approved in writing by the appropriate authority as specified in this policy. The initial documentation to request a field trip must include: Documentation 1. The purpose of the trip including a mapping to the curriculum frameworks. 2. Proposed dates. 3. Proposed itinerary. 4. Estimated number of students expected and percentage of eligible students participating 5. Cost per student(if applicable). 6. Ratio of chaperones/teachers to students. 7. Description of transportation arrangements, including rest time for drivers. 8. Description of arrangements for meals and lodging(if applicable). 9. Means of financing. 10. A draft copy of any contract associated with the trip. 11.A description of the educational alternative,and mapping of that alternative,for students not attending the trip. 12.A description of the process that will be used to determine student eligibility. 13. Compliance with State Ethics Disclosure of Financial Interest 14. Compliance with CORI and SAFIS Requirements After the initial trip approval,subsequent approval documentation must include information detailing how the above trip conditions have changed since the initial trip was approved. All participating students must submit a signed parent/guardian permission form that includes appropriate authorization for emergency medical care and administration of medication. An emergency crisis plan will also be documented and provided to the Administration before the departure of any field trip. International trips must include a printout of the State Department Travel Advisory and Homeland Security Alert Status for all countries to be visited. Restrictions Non-School Sponsored Trips-Staff members are prohibited from soliciting privately run trips through the school system.Teachers and other school staff who privately conduct educational tours or trips must clearly state that these trips are not school-sponsored and that the Reading School Committee and the Reading Public Schools do not sanction the trip nor assume any responsibility or liability for the trip. Discipline of Students and Field Trips-Domestic and International 1. All Reading Public School policies on student behavior,student handbook rules and regulations, Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association (MIAA) rules and regulations,and trip rules will apply and be in effect at all times for academic and extracurricular field trips. 2. If a student violates any Reading Public Schools student conduct policy,student handbook rules or regulations, MIAA rules and regulations,trip rules, or otherwise misbehaves while on a field trip,the student will be given appropriate consequences which could include, but not limited to, a suspension from the field trip and sent back to school or home,as appropriate, by the faculty sponsor at the parent's/guardian's expense. In addition to being sent home,the individual will be subject to the consequences for the action/infraction upon his/her return to school as defined by the aforementioned student conduct policies,student handbook rules and regulations,and MIAA rules and regulations. Cancellation of Field Trip The Reading Public Schools reserves the right to cancel a trip up to the departure date or to recall a trip in progress if national and/or international conditions so warrant or if security and safety concerns over which the Reading Public Schools had no control render it appropriate to cancel the trip. The Reading Public Schools will take the following criteria into consideration when making its decision: • U.S. Department of State Travel Advisory • Homeland Security Advisory • Declaration of War or Armed Conflict In the event that a trip must be cancelled,school officials will make a reasonable effort to obtain a refund of monies paid by students and parents. However,such refunds are not guaranteed. The students and parents understand that he/she/they may lose any and/or all of the funds he/she/they have expended for the voluntary trip. References: Massachusetts Department of Education Regulations 603 CMR 27.00:Time and Learning. M.G.L. c.71,s. 37N—Policy for School-Sponsored Student Travel M.G.L. c.71,s.38R—Criminal Records: Checks of Application M.G.L. (c. 268A,s. 17 (a))—Conduct of Public Officials, Employees Municipal employees;gift or receipt of compensation from other than municipality;acting as agent or attorney. Reading School Committee Policy EEAG,Private Vehicle Student Transportation on Field Trips and Activities Approved by the Reading school Committee on Reading Public Schools Field Trip Chaperone Guide Thank you for volunteering to be a field trip chaperone. Educational field trips provide rich experiences for Reading Public Schools students.To assist in making a field trip a well-organized, thoroughly enjoyable experience, we ask that all chaperones be fully aware of their responsibilities.These responsibilities include but are not limited to: 1. Prior to attending a field trip all chaperones must have a CORI (for day field trips) and a SAFIS (for all overnight and extended day field trips) on record with the Reading Public Schools. 2. Chaperones will be assigned small groups of students for whom they will be responsible. Chaperones will need to know the whereabouts of each child at all times.The chaperones will stay with the same group of students throughout the field trip (including on the bus). 3. Chaperones should not take photos of students, other than their own child or post any photos on social media without permission from the building principal. 4. Field trips are only for the students currently attending school in the Reading Public Schools. Due to the number of available spaces, siblings are not permitted to attend a trip if they are not a part of the class. S. As many of the field trips involve programs that begin at specific times, it is very important that all chaperones(and students) be punctual for activities and departures. 6. Field trips are paid for in advance. Usually, chaperones (and students) do not need to bring any money, unless told in advance. Please do not buy your group anything (this includes food, drinks, souvenirs, extra activities, etc.). 7. Chaperones must wear appropriate attire on field trips as they are representing the school as well as setting an example for the students. 8. Reading Public School Teachers and Administrators have the ultimate responsibility and authority for ensuring a safe trip. Chaperones must abide by teacher and administrator requests, which will assist in maintaining a safe, secure environment. 9. Chaperones with cellular phones should provide the number to the lead teacher for emergency contact information. Please refrain from using cellular phones for personal conversations. 10. In order to comply with district policy during district-sponsored events, chaperones: may not use, sell, provide, possess, or be under the influence of drugs or alcohol; may not use tobacco in the presence of, or within the sight of students; may not possess any weapon. I have read, understand and agree to abide by Reading Public School's Chaperone Responsibilities for Field Trips. Any inappropriate action or infringement of trip guidelines will exclude a chaperone from participating in further trips. Name: (Please PRINT First& Last Name) Signature: Date John F.Doherty,Ed. D. Craig Martin Superintendent of Schools ' Assistant Superintendent for Learning and Teaching 82 Oakland Road Reading,MA 01867 Phone:781-944-5800 Martha J.Sybert Fax:781-942-9149 f 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: October 30, 2014 TOPIC: MCAS Presentation At our meeting on Monday evening, Assistant Superintendent Craig Martin will update the School Committee on the district MCAS results. I have attached a copy of the presentation for your information. If you have any questions,please contact me. The Reading Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race,color,sex,gender identity,religion,national origin,sexual orientation,age or disability. 11/3/2014 Reading Public Schools 2014 MCAS Update Reading School Committee November 3,2014 Background Information MCAS Results • Provide evidence as to how well a student,subgroup,or school has performed in relation to the standards of the curriculum frameworks • Are used for program evaluation in aligning curriculum,instruction,and assessment practices • Help us to identify students who may need additional supports Performance Levels/Scaled Score Range • Advanced/260-280 • Proficient/240-258 • Needs Improvement/220-238 • Warning/200-218 Reading Public Schocis Grade 5 English Language Arts 2010-2014 80 20 — 50-I— -I .2010 ._._.... _.._._._ . •2011 2012 30 ..._........_ j __._... 2013 20 ...... ...... ....._ w 2014 Advanced Proficient Needs Warning $ Improvement 1 11/3/2014 Aer.d•ng?uohc Scho:,Is Grade 5 Mathematics 20142014 80 70 60 50 .........._._. ..___- _ ■2010 40 ........... _........_ __.......__ ___...... •2011 30 2012 i ■2013 20 ; // - •2014 10 Advanced Proficient Needs Warning i) Improvement Aaaw,g P•blic Schrals Grade 5 Science&Technology 2010-2014 80 70 60 50 .____. ___. ....___ __.... .......... _._..... ■2010 40 ____. ._. ____. __._ -.._..... •2011 30 2012 _ a 2013 ZO - ____. �2014 30 : 0 Advanced Proficient N d Warning 5�' Improvement Ile ading Pudic Sch.-,oi. Grade 8 English Language Arts 2010 2CA 80 _... _..._. ...__ _...... • 50 -- 02010 40 -- __. .2011 2012 0 y it 2013 20 3 % ..... .._ 02014 ' [.. 10 wm. INV Advanced Proficient Needs Warning [6 6a") Improvement g� 2 11/3/2014 Pearling Public Schon., Grade 8 Mathematics 2010-2014 80-- 70 60 50 ........____ - ■2010 40 .__._......... ____ s 2011 is 2012 30 is 2013 20 .2014 10 L 0 Advanced Proficient Needs Warning / Improvement """6i' :Reading Pubbo Schools Grade 8 Science &Technology 2010-2014 80 70 --._....._ —. 60 50 I ...__.... ■2010 40 ____. _.._...... ........... . r 2011 2012 30 ■ .2013 20 2014 10 — 0 Advanced Profcent` Needs Warning I Improvement ReamngP:.blic Schools Grade 9 Science&Technology 2010-2014 80 70 — 60•—____. ____.__-"-.. --_____ 50 - j — .2010 40 i ........ .. ' ......... ....... .......... _.._..._.... .2011 2012 ?� 30 .... _....._ `, ___._. ..... ......_.... _._.............. sz - .2013 20 • -- -- .2014 10 g Advanced Proficient Needs Warning 9 Improvement '°' 3 11/3/2014 RccdingPcbtic Schools Grade 10 English Language Arts 2010-2014 80— 70 60 4 50 ___. .......__. . ... ............. ....._. ■2010 40 ;i r ____._ __... a 2011 2012 a2013 2014 20 Ad ced Profaent Ned W ing 10 Improvement " Reading Pvbli Sc'ais Grade 10 Mathematics 2010-20:14 80 70 r -- 60 50 _.. ......... .... .......... ................. .....__...._.. a 2010 40 ____. ..._........ ... ... _...... ■2011 2012 30 :.. ____ ___ ........ x 2013 20 -'-- _-- x2014 10 0 'r __ ! Advanced Proficient Needs Warning (- 3 Improvement 2::20',WAS,:,vC:}n 008 ANkvanenlDk8fbolloobyYau Rea-g 1 EDUCATION waaaaecs "she 4 Graces AuklGM:A marts Al _... YCASAdiemnnl Load It Adaate; 200 At NeVShpmersr 425 m e t:^a .t. 38b 38%..... va, r, 4 s c 1+% 114 .2211 x..221 2011. .120 4 11/3/2014 1 EDWATIC?N L.F.I. c ur WiSttsrAt:r Wets s AAs r Avers 4 4i1 Mathematics Overall District Scores/2014 50 45 4 40 4 y 35 _._... ____. •. __..... 30 ■ ■Adv 25 4 .,:, r _ _ ■Prof 20 t %o., NI !, A W 15 5 a, All Students High Needs English Language Arts Overall District Scores/2014 60 4 SO 40 a Adv ea ■Prof 30 _____. ..___. __'_ ' __...... a NI A p_....._ ... ...... All.........,. 5 All Students High Needs 5 11/3/2014 English Language Arts Proficient orAdvanced/2014 b Grade Level 100 so 60 50 x ■pll Students 40 --- " ■High Needs g, 20 p Gr3 Gr4 Gr5 Gr6TGr7 Gr8 Gr 10 Mathematics %Proficient orAdvan'ced/2014 by Grade Level loo — --- —.._. .-- 90 _.___-- 80 , ti' 50 ---- - ■All Students j 40 �' ' ■High Needs r� 30 20 r I, 1? 0 Gr3 Gr4 Gr5 Gr6 Gr7 Gr8 Gr 10 English Language Arts %Proficient orAdvanced High Needs/Nod- h Needs ■High Needs Non-High Needs _ -_ 88 89 92 92 92 92 89 70 60 ✓ = t', 51 54 53 53 54�; 40 30 R/s [ II �d',, 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 6 11/3/2014 English Language Arts Median SGP High Needs/Ng High i Needs •High Needs Non-High Needs 55 70 59 5`s 60 50 053 42Z.-52 4953 50 48 1 40 40 � e 20 0 /., If �a " 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 Mathematics Proficient or Advanced High Needs/Non-High Needs •High Needs 1 Non-High Needs 100 —__. 85____. 86 _........_S5 86... 83 __...... 90 82 _ 80 80 ....... a j ...__ ' __. ..:..._ a 60 50 1 444...._. ddb 42(,_ 40 I 37 41 37 ..-341 ..... 30 i xr- m, j�a 10 0 0 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 Mathematics Median SGP High Needs/Non-High Needs ■High Needs tt-No n-High Needs 70 60 5959 60 „n -- 55 ._.._5555 80 ,, A—... 48� 48 48 1 37 50 40 '' i rte` '. 21 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 7 11/3/2014 Achievement vs. Growth Student Growth Percentile(SGP) Assessment scores indicate how each student is achieving relative to the state standards for that grade level. •This is helpful in determining,for instance,if Mary is demonstrating proficiency in the standards for 6'^grade mathematics. • Because standards differ from grade to grade,however,(and expectations tend to rise),it is difficult to compare Mary's scaled scores from year to year—or to examine how much progress Mary has made. Growth indicates a change in an individual student's progress from one year to the next... • How much did Mary improve in mathematics from 5'^grade to 6'^ grade? • Did Mary improve any more or less than her academic peers(students with similar prior MCAS scores)? Student Growth Percentiles "How much academic progress did a student, a group of students,or a school make in one year." • Each student's rate of change is compared to other students with similar prior MCAS scores("academic peers") •The rate of change is expressed as a percentile. • How much did Mary improve in mathematics from 5'^grade to 6.grade, relative to her academic peers? • If Mary improved more than 65 percent of her academic peers,then her Student Growth Percentile(SGP)would be 65. 2 Key Reminders Growth is distinct from achievement •A student can achieve at a low level but demonstrate high growth, or achieve at a high level but demonstrate low growth Each student is compared only to their statewide academic peers,not to all students statewide • Others with a similar test score history(similar raw scores) •All students can potentially grow at the 1.or 99`^percentile Growth is subject,grade,and year specific • Different academic peer groups for each subject,grade,and year •Therefore,the same change in scaled scores can yield different student growth percentiles 8 11/3/2014 Why measure growth? A way to monitor progress at all performance levels • Because the growth model compares students to others with similar MCAS score histories,students at all levels of achievement can show growth. •A student may achieve currently at a lower level,but still make great progress relative to academic peers •Another could achieve well but not improve much from year to year :•Provides evidence of improvement even among those with low achievement Provides even high achieving students and/or schools something to strive for beyond proficiency 25 RPS Median SGP Grade Subject SGP 2011 SGP 2012 SGP 2013 SGP 2014 INE ELA 52 59 56 45 • Math 51 56.5 52 48 © ELA 49 51 50.5 42 © Math 61 56.5 55 48 • ELA 59 61 58.5 56 Ell Math 63.5 56 50 58 Inn ELA 55 52 56 40 Bill Math 63 53 42.5 44.0 an ELA 54 56 58 50 an Math 42 58 29.5 41.0 i 26 10 ELA 42 40 34 47.5 10 Math 35 37 45 31.0 ,,, soa 4 ;:., ..w...»w 3lor.A aicri'ra.ento Crle , 9 11/3/2014 2014 MCAS Mathematics by - Grade FIX VAilON ''411°• ,„„, - , — — 10 11/3/2014 EDUCATION a.. -, x o lb tat vAS EDUCATIO N, S N „nba b. .ww.nn lbws. bb:.,.. 0 0 thse.,MI<MCA]D$ As4avwi,«v+e..wl kr- 11 11/3/2014 aPoMe Maa 3KAI Irma At...mom ara Grrvti5 EDUCATION by Webb b..a.3„om v: I �d+at F 5vM81O! *C ttxa AeMr.e�wert arra ar+mAta 4'F13It)IN ww,e. 12 11/3/2014 2014 MCAS Student Growth-Massachusetts ELA/All Grades Reading M466n SGP 46 /Pi tx:1.;#1,66 430 p 8 nA 9 q PV. •d♦ an 5 Y4. °yT� .t` y: «3 oe a 3 v xi w 50 m V w SV .oa Wes SW 2014 MCAS Student Growth-Massachusetts Math/All Grades Evading • M.6,1 KP 46 ah Pvc,rento-1:rfv_r.64 •8•! w e s • �9 i r .> G n♦ . ra rot Massachusetts Accountability System •Measures each school and district's progress toward reducing the proficiency gap in half between 2010/11 and 2016/17 •Schools making sufficient progress toward narrowing proficiency gaps are classified into Level 1,while the state's lowest performing schools are classified into Levels 4 and 5.In general,districts are classified into a level based on the level of their lowest performing school. 35 13 11/3/2014 How are schools classified? n e�«,rrz�a tS£LnQs']@nsvnt narsgmoov scil.,s iaaa?ttt v Leah 11 ;tar al:egate 8 NO,vvcv a 6entc) Namettiv protccvocy as aemwo,,gc*a[r L�nv (ix0,971vaf•fir'c higr,med,nttuirnte,. Level (:dWu M2rt1%∎ ..w h dc d } ry h '' Sc aarst(konvocv vcovsc C^rcniea[ty ur. Y 'vmir x2 [ iaao%dL. (f.s of urea d a 4; SC11001 Title!Status Accountability and Assistance •- I Level Alice M Barrows Non-Title I School(NT) Level 2 Birch Meadow Non Title I School(NT) Level 2 Joshua Eaton Title I School(TA) Level 3 Warren Killam Title I School(TA) - Level 2 Wood End Elementary School Non-Title I School(NT) Level 2 Arthur W Coolidge Middle Non-Title I School(NT) Level 2 Walter 5 Parker Middle Non-Title I School(NT) Level 2 Reading Memorial High Non-Title I School(NT) Level 1 What Does Level 3 Mean? •School has overall low MCAS scores •One or more subgroups in the school are among the lowest performing 20%of subgroups relative to all subgroups statewide •At Joshua Eaton,the High Needs Subgroup (Current and former English Language Learners, students with disabilities,and low income students) did not progress well compared to peers Q [42) 14 11/3/2014 How is the level calculated? •Massachusetts uses the Progress and Performance Index(PPI) •At the elementary level,PPI combines information about narrowing proficiency gaps and growth •Ideally,a PPI should be at least 75(on a 0-100 scale) What is PPI? •There are 2 types of PPI •Annual PPI—looks at the narrowing over a single year •Cumulative PPI—the narrowing over a 4 year period. 43 What are some key PPI concepts? The PPI is a measure of progress toward a group's gap-narrowing goals • Annual PPI shows progress over two years • Cumulative PPI represents trend overtime Core indicators(up to 7) • ELA,math,&science proficiency gap narrowing(CPI) • ELA&math growth(SGP) • Annual dropout rate • Cohort graduation rate(4-and 5-year) Extra credit • Reducing percentage of students scoring Warning/Failing&/or increasing percentage of students scoring Advanced(10 percent or more) (44 • Reengaging dropouts(2 or more students) t Annual PPI=total points/#core indicators Cumulative PPI=(2011*1+2012*2+2013*3+2014*4)/10 cotelnacatats 1Upto700 polots awarded 3.ELA proficiency gap narrowing 0,25,50,75,Or 100 2.Math proficiency gap narrowing 0,25,50,75,or 100 3.Science proficiency gap:. 0,25,50,75,or 100 narrowing 1PJ. 4.ELA growth 0,25,SO,75,or 100 S.Math growth 9,25,50,75,or 100 6.Annual dropout rate 0,25,50,75,or 100 7,Cohort graduation rate-: 0,25,50,75,or 100 l Mint iltdiatatartS.; ia ,:;t pt .17544kiltitatd 1 ELA,math,science W/f reduction 25+25+25 ( ELA,math,science AM increase 25+25+25 45 Dropout reengageme.t 25IJ 15 11/3/2014 Joshua ua Eaton PPI Data Yoysoys y. Y r (xx ylyy, a-*-ray" ^k crx G YYKKS iueYTS vo ._pr. s t:z rnrx k ? xwy0,,i stem kmeyd x ,tsa. L t3 ivap.SilRx6M•Y).A'W/•d.'Y1•RY6 la.... 3GRS'M1¢ K. DESE REPORT CARD INFORMATION 2054 R1563,4s!x6605 mi60555 Report 066/1090,056 REF1005t1 Pt"t t{.SCHOOL(33STRSC'T=66066fl Hma my dsiert,yrsrng axe=a$? Lovol3 xswN rope...x•ad++.•ae a I.w a:uurz rupwrs. i How does our district',achievement over time Compare to the state? `�.a den's s[onna pay:< »aS:nrean Stray a Jwecz C-?wPrMenvNx Aiseisnrora SYaEtf:shICAS}, E%P,3,an({i.age aa!s 911a04.,,,be3 Y+e:e<rcw Are:x`2 R 3 AY:a of� 11!1 EI't SYY I.v.�1 1f.,.4tt Our 0.1.%f % 63: .63 & 76 Y6 53 69 se 69 66 57 tlaskacAV+pttp ".E 69 69 60 69 66 69 63 60 52 3s 53 iS How does our district's growth compare to the state? tam,.L;ec,>.x;hmrs..x:;cp I s.r...: w m d.wtios<e a:J63 Mpe A.K 3 wTy`eyer,ea.Yra rn r,eyr. Gee meal.52A fo,z3+ 556 fAt+d 0655615 5AO,.pm YY.MaY a. 6re �ta,raasy ar�x xt�r�w-av' t Oro r wsuctu loss FI.7 4a J 16 11/3/2014 how does our district's enrollment compare to the state? :. T6tmr e+vadmxM_.. ANA Marowithroarti Cow woo- ;wewau orWsk Ar 3'tph Eas.vdt ..:,..ri*en E 'V 'Y ,$rru&SOO Sea- .!t with 4o-. tOO VOW tr.0 &Ow,i i'Ak ekuaxt 2 re 15441 10 How do ow districts teachers and classrooms compare to the state? Y#aAO '73.6401 4 How is our distract doing on other important measures? swwwws C 41tbr ,Z0 &ANA -;€«stamut�t eg ai tA pFixs _. �___..........._.,_,..,.,__- H ' ?A3I,Aat x .eo:w w sl g 12 2093 r=oc oo l,AA:14) H k sormoi es•VoiAA $riAATA' tAAM OAAPAP _.__.... ... ...m..m........�. �•�100 Slaw igmsluaar.^nits i''a}�, ,,.XRA 67A 203t1 rmArA,c 44,f`»7 3U.6 040 :413 411.1a4>xca'.aa:racct'".:I. ':aa T.2 20 0:AAAO3 AAAAEAs,at WAX 21304'29,<pw*eslaw:n}:.kd:ts»PA,Ament a 4$ "A Mwa 1.1*S1 en-- toe wen WS:fun 0.e 3 OS MOW IS2 44,4, 00 '204 AT 4:mape sRae-Re4d'zfj 2004 SAT ax:ve ..00000 ZPik 4 eve•0,..40 ue4i a 2013 ttMSC.il'@• GE+�a+HL(+.g S!{#.WehwM3 W Siudg Ta2 i4 ramp as.:a�.'aeany srm,n..:.sn�,<ma.asrwK.,F r®y acts'tst b.wwnn,33"+'"'RdkanF'r..T;,sete w.my,# A^T90a.-iars0034' riots 1x+m':.a.x: tssessment Traesitiee PWis Grades 3-A Asfessmant Tnedtion hem 2000/X04 ttC000000000001 Comoro* fNor mat*to 2e11 NA ifnhemitios Corriorhon formwork Awror o 100-110 34000*i 4t14lsi :: i 34044$F:Wiwrk t AAA tAIN koducis&ose(*3f* xax'a iwtt'314 qerlArts korn ifa39i:aI <St oinkooOw3n4 .tad A.A1IvF.r=A »mc AKA 4ldtte"oW Ps-_4004000.^i urs licuAlsdxas'za iQ oOurrneawtkss Core '*n'30 nvsk++.s:wFaisxY,rk>1..6;vv.vi. ievEm,.FAJAeKA.. 1,41 be ram will vakr 'f\es axrrr`o„;itre.:au i.‘01 tra`sa'xa:t. siaafaaa':'s ors.:to$x ,. .AtG S AX,t,Aall raru&3O00OO sa v?tarM!.3At43 V*00 i. ar.-r'+St 31.3 tk•.riulFrannxoxk. rs-.a:Pi`F :21.4,FamAAAi 1A4,,,,341 «xµfarfAtAft i ieu rte` S#A Ilkfrua 000*3t;i5 'r^^=l*the urue f}S d;iviv.s?ert,arme akies,rn-+-vvv:vvvv4.. _..._ mnxuy tt'4* rn2+fi:$.: ?.1.1,*0ua*'C Ar=r.1,,eA.*..t:: am3•mti'.tuP,iffy.rt'',e.8119'396}r r,,, Vk 17 11/3/2014 Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System Assessment Transition Plans Assessment Transit*from 200112004 MA&wish tangooge Arts(EtAJ Framework to 2011 MA EtA Framework i-no taiap,dantsiuml.lat :,vl.tM.A FSA':r�uua fra.thx:e�u'�AV.Af; ark wud:eat A. l»late €r.c.'nr%.?+'1W41,...e. € Gwn+p.i T l p L l (�Y psi Fefl:rwItt M 4 24 Fraralork TteL+i 4}CAS=ossr04.ta4 firunnrr n e*�p ss sf A P.114 Pradr) to Ov r•t omit i,� €.• Si "'Lk'+k M1SC p'aat zIN. sn}re do. edvaft:o haaentrC Eagok u,r,,rgatx ).r Wt.nu-art>a an+c a' t3cva9.rtuAt rErd:Fsnrt:.h Fa az 1��� X 4 i in aps �y1++ 74, 1 S°Fxts-au3 aF it k1C#frkl..'<Frs4.0.0zk3 W.!Ob.dirIt.A. r.afx 1 ∎MO'4.1.5 d°.ran-rapa(1xdw .x;+w;7 s:4,44.1.11. R1.31. xnfsanm.N.H.',opeeaM eof.2.r7%/A Frar,,,rk rc-xkoak.15,d dant, Key Shifts in the ELA/Literacy Standards 1. Equal emphasis on literary and informational texts 2. Reading,writing,and speaking grounded in evidence from text 3. Writing in response to one or more texts 4. Regular practice reading complex texts and academic language 5. Literacy standards application across curriculum content areas Key Shifts in the Mathematics Standards 1. Each grade focuses on fewer standards: a) each standard addressed more deeply b) coherent progression across grades 2. Conceptual understanding of topics is foundational 3. Students are expected to extend their knowledge to real-life modeling and application s4 18 11/3/2014 District ELA Scores(%A/P) Grades 4,8,10 ao 70 L 50 —Grade 4 —Grade 8 40 ........____ .____. 30 - __._...._ _.._...__ _.........__ __....... -----Grade 10 55]10 4 �ry n n ry ry n n n n ry ry District Math Scores (%A/P) Grades 4,8,10 100 90 — 80 Grade 4 40 - —Grade 8 -Grade 10 30 --- n 0] H '0] n EA n n n n 2 Reading vs.State MCAS ELA and Math Differential 25 24 : 23= — 22 -, —_ 21 13 ____. ___. __ ... .___ _.Math 11 ... ...._ ...__ __ .... —ELA 4 3 • 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 19 11/3/2014 RPS Math: %Adv/Prof (All Grades) %Points Above State Average 30 P 20 0 i —RPS Above 10 n —State Avg t 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 State Average Each Year 3rd Grade Math %Proficient/Advanced By Year 70 5° ■ftP6 State 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 4th Grade Math 70 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 Reading's Per Pupil Expenditure$ State Ranking (out of 326 School Districts) 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 s 220 :.._.... ___ t 230 232 241 a 240 i-- ----- t 250.d.....: ............ 55 260 - R 270 ____. 72 --PPE Rank 278 a280 :.__. ____. __._ ......... _.._. n 290 ---__ 92 k 300 ,-- -. OA... 310 _.. 320 _ 20 11/3/2014 2014 Scores of Comparable$PPE Communities ow* t* ° yry Math StierKe �RR' Prof/MY#Ai6588dest ProfiAdY aradest off zs 4rades Rank Melrose 297 81% i 69% 64% Mansfield 298 81% 73% 66% Easton 299 79% 71% 65% Northbridge 300 62%. 47% 53% Franklin 301 80% 76% 73% Berkeley 302 62% 48% Hatfield 303 79% 61% 47% Reading 304 80% 69% 67% Marshfield 305 83% 70% 63% West Bridgewater 306 81% 74% 65% Nahant 307 74% 72% 48% Hanover 308 83% 68% 74% 2014 Scores of Surrounding or Comparable Communities fi Math sage.* Rank %h UwS,i i' ,,,ti reonne.aelannol DedH. 70 74% 70% 64% Shrewsbury 83 86% 80% 75% Wilmington 147 78% 67% 60% 5t6wlwm 151... 74% 64% 62% Milmn 362 81% 76% 65% W.kelkld 203 77% 68% 65%... N«th Beed'omg -204 83% 75% 70% 661,l 224 89% a6% 83% Wnofteld 278 89% 80% 69% Winchester 249 9o% 64% 81% Chelmsford 262 83% 76% 75% North Mdorer 268 80% 70% 62%. Wedord 781 89% am 85% Ningh•m 784 87% 79% 77% Meedf.Id 298 81% 73% 66% bnon 299 79% 71% 65% Rea4mg 304 6013 69% 67% Marshfield 305 83% 70% '63% Identified Issues/Concerns •Gap between High Needs students and Non-High Needs Students •Gap of some of our subgroups compared to aggregate •Transition process in aligning to new standards of the MA Framework • Implementation of Math in Focus program with fidelity • Literacy/Writing in content areas(i.e.open response and short answer questions) • Outdated Science curriculum materials and resources • Need to improve communication with families about curriculum, programs,and instructional approaches •Teacher collaboration time • Keyboarding Skills ( • Classroom space(impact on class size,teacher planning,programs( i • Early Childhood/Full Day Kindergarten needs 21 11/3/2014 Mathematics Identified Areas for Growth(X) „OGen ResWnne %'. X K X X X. Short Answer X X K X Geometry K X X X X Measurement and Data X X Numbers and Operations Fractions X X X Operations and Algebraic Thinking X Ratios and Proportional Relationships(Gr 6/T) Expressions and Equations X X Functions(Gr 8) X The Number System X X Statistic and Probability X X Creating Equations ,"y.�{ CO ng uenre ( 9 Interpreting Categorical and Quarooanve Data X dL Geometric Measurement and Dimensions English Language Arts Identified Areas for Growth(X) ttm Gardg/Graae, .., ' ': 3 4 $ 6 7% $ I4I Open Response X X X X X X Short Response X X Writing Prampn(Grade 4( X X Language Anchor Standard X (Conversions and Vocabulary( Ending Anchor Standard X X X (CreWhrnscture,Integration of Knowledge and ideas,Key ideas and details) Writing Anchor Standard X % (Production/Distribution of Writing,Text TYPes,and Purposes(-Grades 4 and] ff��jj Science,Technology,Engineering Identified Areas for Growth(X) §aneards/Ore kt S f ` Open Response X X Earth and Spare Science X X Life Science X X Physical Science X .Technology/Engineering X Biology $ bdardsfarade• .,R .. <: Open Response N•L. X Anatomy and Physiology X Cell Biology X Chemistry X ( Genetic [." ." Ecology Xv€ Evolution and Blodiversity 22 11/3/2014 Action Steps and Strategies • DESE district-wide assessment tool to identify strengths and areas for improvement • Fully implementing Literacy standards across the Science,Social Studies,and Mathematics curricula • Raising expectations consistently for students in mathematics(levels,placements, sequences—and giving all students experience at applying knowledge with challenging and novel problems) • Increase academic-based after school activities/clubs(esp.elementary) • Provide additional professional development/support on new curriculum programs • Implement all district programs to fidelity • Establishing district-wide PLC structure for teacher collaboration and regular review of student progress • Elementary Teachers establishing consistent Scope,Sequence,Pacing Guides,and Parent Communication Tools for Math in Focus • Providing additional professional development and support for teachers • Teacher PLCs examining new Science standards and exploring next steps .� . • Implement MuIt Tiered System of Supports(MTSS)In all grades 87 • Use MCAS/DDM data to identify struggling students and provide interventions • Data Analyst position(in process through grant) Resources Needed to address long-term concerns • Instructional coaches/specialists in mathematics and literacy at elementary and middle school(had several years ago,but eliminated in budget) • Attracting and retaining high quality teachers • Upgrading science and engineering curriculum materials • New standards being introduced next year • Provide additional content area reading material for elementary level to align with increased literacy standards • Provide Tier 2 regular education tutor support at all levels • Increase instructional time(especially in math and literacy) • Creating a scope and sequence for keyboarding at elementary level • Additional classroom and specialist space throughout the district • Full Day Kindergarten • Provides strong foundation for all students •Also will bring in additional Chapter 70 Funding Massachusetts DESE Online Information =• , Birch Meadow:ev rrvw._Ta•kwnowncxrooa.•wrtraw~n.*,v,ann a:_w_wwaavm.-,xrtwmava.>n Killam:a�.a+.m....rw� .u�wm•.wnc.wrv•�«+�.wa 3,sxoa.,a,u ,e.rv.eoo„eam�a.rt Fnon:w,rr.wnomm�.nW.na..es�w..nc.wo..r....n.+.vwa,aMarmuea.wax,awo,aeom.�a.t Woad Erd:p..rr..��..a,.?..rwn�.wsaao••�c.mn�..e..,w.z„bsaoa.,ov.aoeomnr.=ve,•ao,.n�m.-aa Coolidge: W ....,.n.ron0,wnw.viwowran.a.,m..o.n..w.sa RIMS: eat,,�;UQuEo.m•m:,.Ownmmnraa,av wm.a.,*,C'.n*.+-,eoo,,0O nma**.euxa,*,*0,an-sr 23 11/3/2014 Questions . . . C:41 (70) 24 John F.Doherty,Ed. D. Craig Martin Superintendent of Schools Assistant Superintendent for Learning and Teaching 82 Oakland Road Reading,MA 01867 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: October 30, 2014 TOPIC: Approval of RMHS Model UN Field Trip At our meeting on Monday evening I will ask the School Committee to approve the RMHS Model UN field trip in January. I have met with Principal Bakr and teacher Amy Fedele to discuss this trip. This trip is an opportunity for students to experience a four day international relations simulation to gain insight on the workings of the United Nations. I have attached a memorandum from Principal Bakr for your information. If you have any questions,please contact me. The Reading Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race,color,sex,gender identity,religion,national origin,sexual orientation,age or disability. , l y :. . .'i Rtty 9f:,Nccoo'i John F.Doherty,Ed.D. READING MEMORIAL HIGH SCHOOL Adam Bakr 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: John Doherty From: Adam D. Bakr • Date: October 15„ 2014 • Re: Harvard Model UN Conference 2015 May this letter serve as support for.Amy Fedele, Social Studies Teacher at RMHS to travel to Boston on Thursday,January 29th to Sunday, February 1, 2015 at the .Sheraton Boston located in the heart of the city of Boston. Harvard Model United Nations is a four day international relations simulation for high school students held annually in Boston. Students and chaperones will be staying overnight at the Sheraton from Thursday to Sunday. We respectfully request your approval for this trip. Thank you. • Preparing Reading's Youth to be Productive,Informed,Independent Citizens In A Global Society The Reading Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race,color,sex,religion,national origin,sexual orientation,age or disability. Harvard Model United Nations Conference 2015 http://www.harvardmun.org/ http://munbase.harvardmun.org/ 1 Login Amy.fedele @reading.k12.ma.us Password Isabella2 The 62nd session of Harvard Model United Nations 2015 (HMUN) will be from Thursday January 29th to Sunday February 1st, 2015 at the Sheraton Boston located in the heart of the city of Boston. Harvard Model United Nations is a four-day international relations simulation for high school students held annually in downtown Boston. At HMUN, delegates gain insight into the workings of the United Nations and the dynamics of international relations by assuming the roles of UN representatives and members of other international bodies and national cabinets. HMUN is an exciting opportunity for students to debate issues that confront world leaders and to draft resolutions in response to these global issues. Participants will develop their abilities to work with others who are equally motivated and passionate about the topics of debate and to respond to global concerns. HMUN 2015 builds upon decades o experience.ollow d by t e f st Model held its first annual Model League of Nations, United Nations conference in 1953. This longevity and the dynamic that only a conference of this size can provide make HMUN the preeminent simulation of its kind in the world. True to the spirit of the United Nations, founded in 1945, HMUN strives to foster a constructive forum for open dialogue on complex global issues, including international peace and security and economic and social progress. HMUN stresses the in-depth examination and resolution of pressing issues, emphasizing process over product. During the conference, students learn the importance of balancing national interests with the needs of the international community, while also learning about the powers and limitations of international negotiation. Delegates will preserve their countries' national policy while negotiating in the face of other, sometimes conflicting, international policies. *School HMUN deposit fee and delegate and put Model nctheer 1, 2015. Please make checks out memo. Hotel Information Boston Sheraton Hotel 39 Dalton Street Boston, MA 02199 617-236-2000 Students have decided to stay all three nights of the conference. The cost for hotel is $255.00 per person. Hotel checks due to Mrs. Fedele by November 12, 2013. Make checks payable to Boston Sheraton Hotel. Arrangements can be made if a parent chooses to limit the nights staying. Students who do not stay over must provide their own transportation to Boston Sunday morning. Hotel Fee Oct 15th 2015 Liability waivers due November 24th 2014 —! L Position Papers due January 14, 2015 Transportation to be determined once we finalize our plans. Check-in time at the Sheraton Boston is 3:30 on Thursday in the Main Lobby. Students must be in business attire for the conference (suit &ties-skirts or slacks-no jeans). Pack as light as you can-wear your suit on Thursday to school to lighten bags. Feel free to leave bags in Mr. Fedele's room. Students will need approximately $80.00 for food and $20.00 for the limo fee. HMUN provides water only. There are several cheap eats option in the mall. Students should eat at home on Sunday and bring a snack along. Students and Mrs. Fedele will exchange cell numbers and I will forward that list to parents. . http://www.harvard.mun.org Use the HMUN website for all important information and procedural questions. There you will find the rules of Parliamentary Procedure, how to write position papers, amendments and resolution writing instructions. There are links to helpful websites for each topic. There are video tutorials. This is one of the best Model UN websites on the planet-USE IT! To log into our secure account go to the url below Registration for HMUN 2014 is now open! Click here to access our online database for registration. Username amy.fedele @reading.k12.ma.us password Isabella2 Tentative Conference Schedule Please note that this is a tentative schedule designed to give delegates and faculty advisors an idea of what to expect at HMUN All times and dates listed here are subject to change. A more detailed final schedule will be published in the Delegate Handbook, which will be distributed at the start of conference. Thursday,January 30,2014 9:00am onwards Registration 2:15pm-3:00pm International Schools Meeting and Reception(faculty advisors only) 2:00pm-3:00pm Committee Dynamics and Substantive Rules Review 3:30pm-4:15pm Mandatory Faculty Advisor and Head Delegate Welcome 5:00pm-6:30pm Opening Ceremonies and Keynote Address 6:30pm-7:00pm Faculty Advisor and Keynote Speaker Reception Starting at 7:30pm Committee Sessions at the Sheraton Boston Committees will end at staggered times from 11:15pm to 11:45. 12:30am Curfew(all delegates must be within their assigned hotel rooms) Friday, January 31st 9:00am-1:00pm Tours of Harvard University(Public Transportation to Harvard Square) 11:OOam-1:OOpm College Fair Starting at 2:30pm Committee Sessions at the Sheraton Boston Committees will end at staggered times from 5:00pm to 5:30pm. 6:OOpm-7:30pm Dinner Break Starting at 7:30pm Committee Sessions at the Sheraton Boston Committees will end at staggered times from 11:15pm to 11:45. 9:30pm- 10:30pm Mandatory Faculty Evaluations and Secretariat Presentation 12:30am Curfew Saturday,February 1st 8:45am- 12:00pm Committee Sessions at the Sheraton Boston 12:OOpm-2:OOpm Lunch Break 4:00pm- 5:00pm Faculty Evaluations Starting at 2:00pm Committee Sessions at the Sheraton Boston Committees will end at staggered times from 5:15pm to 5:45. 9:45pm- 12:30am Delegate Dance 1:00am Curfew Sunday,February 2nd 9:00am- 11:30am Committee Sessions at the Sheraton Boston 12:00pm- 1:00pm Closing Ceremonies Harvard Model United Nations 2012 Please feel free to contact me: amy.fedele @readiny.kl2.ma.us This information should Reading Public Schools be kept on file for a Field Trip Plan minimum of 3 years. 1, Trip Coordinator Slf Y) reCte I School Ral/�-S, Grade(s)Attending /c`')— j/,�,,, 11 2. Destination � J /!14}Cli/ (2 Ji /�i*hMi ( -� c, ,,,0/) 3. Type of Trip: Day Extended 4` Overnight IX ,Out of State International 4. Purpose of Trip ekru7Cr/7 7 /t - i/7 /Weld 111 (7 5. Date(s)of Trip l p_ti )1 / Time of Departure t, 3 0 Time of Return /•3 0 d11 6. Cost of Trip 0 5V'1 Will there be fundraising? N2 If yes,please attach plan. J 7. No.of Students Attending �� No.of Teachers / No.of other adults / 1 8. Have all adults had the necessary CORI and/or SAFIS Criminal Background Checks 1.4 9. Transportation Required(Circle): Bus Train Boat Plane Private Car Other 10. Name of Company Providing Transportation 11. If this is an overnight trip,is the bus driver getting sufficient rest in accordance with federal regulations and common sense? 12. Departure Information(location and carrier) k/4 Li-i 13. Return Trip Information(location and carrier) g_y21 liS' - 14. Food and Lodging(If applicable)will be provided by -5) C^ '� 15. Address and Phone No.of Lodging(if applicable) /O•'1 S31 7L 7S 4'1 16. Has the school determined that the facility has adequate insurance consistent with the level of risk involved (e.g.sedentary trip as opposed to outdoor,physically active trip)? If yes,attach a copy of the policy. 17. If swimming is involved,the school has determined that a lifeguard will be Qn duty at all times when students are In the water. Yes , No N/A 18. Please describe below the educational alternative for those students who will not be attending the trip. 19. Please describe the process that will be used to determine student eligibility for the trip. to a(7 In,/ "Yel--e/ 041 s i —/_., 20. Please attach the following to this document: a. A detailed Itinerary of the trip b. Signed state ethics financial disclosure forms from all teachers whose field trip cost will be covered. This is for any field trip where the cost per person is over$50. To access the form,go to http://www.mass.gov/ethics/disclosure-forms/municipal-employee-disclosure-forms/and complete Form 11d,Disclosure of Travel Expenses for Non-Elected/Appointed Employee required by 930 CMR 5.08(2)(41. c. A copy of any contract associated with the field trip. d. A list of all adults who will be chaperoning the field trip. The Following Section is for Out of Country Field Trips Only A. Are there any current travel warnings or advisories issued by the State Department?Please go to www.cdc.gov or www.travei.state.gov. Yes No If yes,please explain B. Have you purchased medical insurance for each day of an out of country field trip? Yes No (attach a copy of the policy) C. Is medical preclearance required? Yes No D. Does each student and staff member have the appropriate documentation necessary for travel to the country/countries being visited and for return to the United States? Yes No E. Copies of all students'passports shall be maintained by the Trip Coordinator. F. At least one staff member accompanying the students must have a phone number with international service. Name of Staff Member Telephone Number To be completed by Reading Public School Administration I certify that all requirements of the Readi.: • • c Schools Field Trip Policy have been fulfilled. 21. APPROVED AA DATE /Z-4 `� i cipal(For All Field Trips) 411010 r 22. APPROVED r/ DATE Superinte nt of Schools(F r All Extended,Overnight,Out of State,an Int rnational Field Trips) School Committee Approval Date(For Overnight,Out of State,and International Field Trips) Harvard Model United Nations Conference 2015 http://www.harvardmun.org/ http://munbase.harvardmun.org/ l Login Amy.fedele @reading.k12.ma.us Password Isabella2 14 Delegates Senegal The 62nd session of Harvard Model United Nations 2015 (HMUN) will be held from Thursday January 29th to Sunday February 1st, 2015 at the Sheraton Boston located in the heart of the city of Boston. Harvard Model United Nations is a four-day international relations simulation for high school students held annually in downtown Boston. At HMUN, delegates gain insight into the workings of the United Nations and the dynamics of international relations by assuming the roles of UN representatives and members of other international bodies and national cabinets. HMUN is an exciting opportunity for students to debate issues that confront world leaders and to draft resolutions in response to these global issues. Participants will develop their abilities to work with others who are equally motivated and passionate about the topics of debate and to respond to global concerns. HMUN 2015 builds upon decades of experience. In 1927, Harvard held its first annual Model League of Nations, followed by the first Model United Nations conference in 1953. This longevity and the dynamic that only a conference of this size can provide make HMUN the preeminent simulation of its kind in the world. True to the spirit of the United Nations, founded in 1945, HMUN strives to foster a constructive forum for open dialogue on complex global issues, including international peace and security and economic and social progress. HMUN stresses the in-depth examination and resolution of pressing issues, emphasizing process over product. During the conference, students learn the importance of balancing national interests with the needs of the international community, while also learning about the powers and limitations of international negotiation. Delegates will preserve their countries' national policy while negotiating in the face of other, sometimes conflicting, international policies. *School HMUN deposit fee and delegate fee of $80.00 due October 1, 2015. Please make checks out to RMHS and put Model UN in the memo. Hotel Information Boston Sheraton Hotel 39 Dalton Street Boston, MA 02199 617-236-2000 Students have decided to stay all three nights of the conference. The cost for hotel is $255.00 per person. Hotel checks due to Mrs. Fedele by November 12, 2013. Make checks payable to Boston Sheraton Hotel. Arrangements can be made if a parent chooses to limit the nights staying. Students who do not stay over must provide their own transportation to Boston Sunday morning. Committee assignments ' Sept. 29th Special Committee apps. Oct. 1st Must be done by applicant School and Delegate Fee ! Oct. 1St$80.00 check to RMHS Hotel Fee Oct 15th $255.00 check to RMHS Liability waivers ; November 10th 2014 Position Papers due January 14, 2015 Transportation to be determined once we finalize our plans. Check-in time at the Sheraton Boston is 3:30 on Thursday in the Main Lobby. Students must be in business attire for the conference (suit &ties-skirts or slacks-no jeans). Pack as light as you can-wear your suit on Thursday to school to lighten bags. Feel free to leave bags in Mr. Fedele's room. Students will need approximately $80.00 for food and $20.00 for the limo fee. HMUN provides water only. There are several cheap eats option in the mall. Students should eat at home on Sunday and bring a snack along. Students and Mrs. Fedele will exchange cell numbers and I will forward that list to parents. http://www.harvard.mun.org Use the HMUN website for all important information and procedural questions. There you will find the rules of Parliamentary Procedure, how to write position papers, amendments and resolution writing instructions. There are links to helpful websites for each topic. There are video tutorials. This is one of the best Model UN websites on the planet-USE IT! Tentative Conference Schedule Please note that this is a tentative schedule designed to give delegates and faculty advisors an idea of what to expect at HMUN. All times and dates listed here are subject to change. A more detailed final schedule will be published in the Delegate Handbook, which will be distributed at the start of conference. Thursday,January 30,2014 9:00am onwards Registration 2:15pm-3:00pm International Schools Meeting and Reception(faculty advisors only) 2:00pm-3:00pm Committee Dynamics and Substantive Rules Review 3:30pm-4:15pm Mandatory Faculty Advisor and Head Delegate Welcome 5:00pm-6:30pm Opening Ceremonies and Keynote Address 6:30pm- 7:00pm Faculty Advisor and Keynote Speaker Reception Starting at 7:30pm Committee Sessions at the Sheraton Boston Committees will end at staggered times from 11:15pm to 11:45. 12:30am Curfew(all delegates must be within their assigned hotel rooms) Friday, January 31st 9:00am-1:00pm Tours of Harvard University(Public Transportation to Harvard Square) 11:OOam-1:OOpm College Fair Starting at 2:30pm Committee Sessions at the Sheraton Boston Committees will end at staggered times from 5:OOpm to 5:30pm. 6:OOpm-7:30pm Dinner Break Starting at 7:30pm Committee Sessions at the Sheraton Boston Committees will end at staggered times from 11:15pm to 11:45. 9:30pm- 10:30pm Mandatory Faculty Evaluations and Secretariat Presentation 12:30am Curfew Saturday,February 1st 8:45am- 12:00pm Committee Sessions at the Sheraton Boston 12:OOpm-2:OOpm Lunch Break 4:00pm-5:00pm Faculty Evaluations Starting at 2:00pm Committee Sessions at the Sheraton Boston Committees will end at staggered times from 5:15pm to 5:45. 9:45pm- 12:30am Delegate Dance 1:00am Curfew Sunday,February 2nd 9:00am- 11:30am Committee Sessions at the Sheraton Boston 12:00pm- 1:00pm Closing Ceremonies Harvard Model United Nations 2012 Please feel free to contact me: amy.fedele @reading.k12.ma.us John F.Doherty,Ed.D. Craig Martin Superintendent of Schools Assistant Superintendent for Learning and Teaching 82 Oakland Road Reading,MA 01867 Martha J.Sybert Phone:781-944-5800 tom' 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: October 30, 2014 TOPIC: Approval of RMHS Drama Trip to New York City At our meeting on Monday evening I will ask the School Committee to approve the RMHS Drama field trip to New York City in May. I have met with teacher Kristin Killian to discuss this trip. This annual trip is an opportunity for our Drama students to travel to New York City and attend two Broadway shows. I have attached a memorandum from Principal Bakr for your information. If you have any questions,please contact me. The Reading Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race,color,sex,gender identity,religion,national origin,sexual orientation,age or disability. o 1l OF RF,g6. .W, � s39rtxco p°? John F.Doherty,Ed.D. READING MEMORIAL HIGH SCHOOL Adam Bakr Superintendent Principal 62 Oakland Road,Reading,Massachusetts 01867 Michael R Scarpitto Laura Olsen Tel:781-944-8200 Fax:781-942-5435 Thomas J.Zaya Website:httpJ/www.edline.net/pages/Reading HS Assistant Principals TO: John Doherty From: Adam D. Bakr Date: October 15„ 2014 - Re: RMHS DRAMA CLUB Trip May this letter serve as support for Kristin Killian, Chairperson of Art/Music/Drama, at RMHS to travel to New York City on Saturday, May 16, 2015 at 7:00am and return from New York City that same day at 11 pm . The arrival back at RMHS will be approximately 4 am on Sunday morning. There will be 40 students with 4 chaperones. Students will be picked up and dropped off by bus at Reading High School. We respectfully request your approval for this trip. Thank you: Preparing Reading's Youth to be Productive,Informed,Independent Citizens In A Global Society The Reading Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race,color,sex,religion,national origin,sexual orientation,age or disability. RMHS DRAMA CLUB October S,2014 RMHS Dear John and Adam, Once again, we are planning our Drama Club trip to Broadway (Saturday, May 16, 2015). Eligible students are from our sophomore, junior and sen- ior class of drama clubbers (students who have lettered or will be lettering in drama this year). • Last year we had 40 students go on the trip with 4 chaperones, and we're hoping to have about the same next spring_ Each person will be attending both a matinee and an evening performance of a Broadway musical. Once in New York we will be traveling in groups led by the chaperones to the matinee, followed by dinner and then the evening show. Students will bring a bag lunch with them to eat on the bus before we arrive in NYC and snacks for the ride home. For dinner (in between shows) we usually eat at a restaurant [John's Pizzeria] located near Times Square. The bus company we will use is Boston Common Coach. Our departure from RMHS is at 7:00 am and we will depart NYC as soon as the evening get out—about 11:00 pm. Our arrival time back at RMHS is approximately 4:00 am on Sunday morning. Students pay approximately $300 for the trip, depending on the ticket price for their chosen shows. This money pays for their two tickets, their bus transportation and dinner. Please let me know if there is anything else you need me to do at this time. Thank you very much. -0`1/c5(3)xi Reading Public Schools Reading, Massachusetts Parental Consent and Release Form for Field Trips Day Field Trips To be completed by teacher prior to distribution: Trip Coordinator Kristin Killian Grade 10-12 School RMHS Date of Trip 5/16-17/2014 Destination Broadway Destination Address Times Square Departure Time 7:00 am Return Site RMHS Return Time 4:00 am Cost of Trip approximately$300 per student Mode of Transportation coach bus Purpose of Trip seeing Broadway shows (Drama Club Specific Clothing/Equipment Required for this Trip dressy casual The trip will include the following physical and sports activities (e.g. walking, running, swimming, skating, etc.): This Section to be completed by Parent/Guardian Student Name Address Parent/Guardian Name Home Phone Emergency Contact Information: (Day) (Night) (Cell) Student Cell Phone Number (if applicable) Name and phone number of person to call in the event the parent cannot be contacted Insurance Carrier Policy Subscriber's Name Policy Number Consent (To be completed by Parent/Guardian) By signing below,the Parent/Guardian agrees to the following: a) I understand that there are risks of injury associated with the above listed physical and sports activities and I consent to my child's participation in all these activities except for the following: b) Please indicate below any permanent or temporary medical or other condition, including special dietary and medication needs, or the need for visual or auditory aids,which should be known about your child. c) I agree that in the event of an emergency injury or illness,the staff member (s) in charge of the trip may act on my behalf and at my expense in obtaining medical treatment for my child. d) I agree and understand that I am responsible for the actions of my child. I understand that my child is expected to behave responsibly and to follow the rules as outlined in the school handbook and Reading Public School policies. I also understand that if my child does not follow the rules as outlined in the school handbook, appropriate disciplinary actions will be taken. If this is an overnight or extended field trip and if my child is sent home early for disciplinary reasons, I understand that I am responsible for all costs associated with such early departure and forfeit any monies paid that are not refunded to the school. e) I understand that students who violate the school's discipline code may be excluded by the school from participating in a trip. f) I agree to release and hold harmless the Reading Public Schools and its employees and volunteers from any and against any and all liability, loss damages, claims or actions, in accordance with current local, state and federal law, which I and/or my child may have arising out of my child's participation in this trip, except if due to the negligence of school staff. g) I understand that I am responsible for getting my child to and from the departure and return sites identified above, in a timely manner. I understand that my child shall be accompanied by staff member(s) during the trip, including while traveling from the departure site to the destination site, and from the destination site to the return site. h) I give my permission for my child to participate in this school trip. Signature of Parent/Guardian Date Student Declaration (to be signed by Middle School and High School students) I have read this form and I understand that I am to act on this trip in the same responsible manner in which I am expected to conduct myself in school- I accept the rules and regulations set forth by the school and the program for which I am participating. If this is an out of state or international trip, I will obey the rules, regulations, and laws of the state or foreign country. Signature of Student Date This information should Reading Public Schools be kept on file for a Field Trip Plan minimum of 3 years. 1. Trip Coordinator Kristin Killian School RMHS Grade(s)Attending 10-12 2. Destination Broadway 3. Type of Trip: Day x Extended Overnight Out of State x International 4. Purpose of Trip seeing Broadway shows 5. Date(s)of Trip 5/16-17/2014 _Time of Departure 7:00 am Time of Return 4:00 am 6. Cost of Trip approx.$300 Will there be fundraising? no If yes, please attach plan. 7. No.of Students Attending 40 No.of Teachers 2 No.of other adults 3-4 8. Have all adults had the necessary CORI and/or SAFIS Criminal Background Checks in process 9. Transportation Required(Circle)CP Train Boat Plane Private Car Other 10. Name of Company Providing Transportation Boston Common Coach 11. If this is an overnight trip,is the bus driver getting sufficient rest in accordance with federal regulations and common sense? YES 12. Departure Information(location and carrier) 7:00 am RMHS 13. Return Trip Information(location and carrier) RMHS 4:00 am 14. Food and Lodging(if applicable)will be provided by 15. Address and Phone No.of Lodging(if applicable) 16. Has the school determined that the facility has adequate insurance consistent with the level of risk involved (e.g.sedentary trip as opposed to outdoor, physically active trip)? If yes,attach a copy of the policy. 17. If swimming is involved,the school has determined that a lifeguard will be on duty at all times when students are in the water. Yes No N/A 18. Please describe below the educational alternative for those students who will not be attending the trip. 19. Please describe the process that will be used to determine student eligibility for the trip. Students who have lettered in Drama or will be lettering by the end of this school year. 20. Please attach the following to this document; a. A detailed itinerary of the trip b. Signed state ethics financial disclosure forms from all teachers whose field trip cost will be covered. This is for any field trip where the cost per person is over$50. To access the form,go to http://www.mass gov/ethics/disclosure-forms/municipal-employee-disclosure-forms/and complete Form 11d,Disclosure of Travel Expenses for Non-Elected/Appointed Employee required by 930 CMR 5.08(2)(d)1. c. A copy of any contract associated with the field trip. d. A list of all adults who will be chaperoning the field trip. The Following Section is for Out of Country Field Trips Only A. Are there any current travel warnings or advisories issued by the State Department? Please go to www.cdc.gov or www.travel.state.gov. Yes No If yes, please explain B. Have you purchased medical insurance for each day of an out of country field trip? Yes_No (attach a copy of the policy) C. Is medical preclearance required? Yes No D. Does each student and staff member have the appropriate documentation necessary for travel to the country/countries being visited and for return to the United States? Yes No E. Copies of all students' passports shall be maintained by the Trip Coordinator. F. At least one staff member accompanying the students must have a phone number with international service. Name of Staff Member Telephone Number To be completed by Reading Public School Administration I certify that all requirements of the R• . sin: Public Schools Field Trip Policy have been fulfilled. i� 21. APPROVED DATE Prin.pal(For All Field Trips) 22. APPROVED )0 �'/ DATE j 0x0111 Supe n endent of !hoots(For All Extended,Overnight,Out of State, nd ternational Field Trips) School Committee Approval Date(For Overnight,Out of State,and International Field Trips) John F.Doherty Ed.D. __ _ Craig Martin Superintendent of Schools Assistant Superintendent for Learning and Teaching 82 Oakland Road Reading,MA 01867 '!= -: Phone:791-944-5800 ��G�"�;��; _ ,iT. . 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: John F. Doherty,Ed.D. Superintendent of Schools DATE: November 3,2014 TOPIC: Approval of RMHS Interact Club Trip to New York City At our meeting on Monday evening I will ask the School Committee to approve the RMHS Interact Club trip to New York City in November. This trip is an opportunity for the Interact Club to travel to New York City as part of a team building experience and the chance to learn about Ellis Island, Statue of Liberty and the 9/11 Memorial and Museum. I have attached a memorandum from Principal Bakr for your information. If you have any questions,please contact me. The Reading Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race,color,sex,gender identity,religion,national origin,sexual orientation,age or disability. 4N of RF4b 'ea INCORe� John F.Doherty,Ed.D. READING MEMORIAL HIGH SCHOOL Adam D.Bakr 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.netlpages/Reading_HS Assistant Principals To: Dr. John Doherty, Superintendent From: Adam Bakr, Principal Date: November 3,2014 Re: Interact Club Day Trip to New York City May this letter serve as support for Dr. John Doherty to escort the Interact Club to New York City on a day trip on Saturday,November 22nd. The bus will depart from RMHS at 3:30 a.m. and return to RMHS at approximately 11:00 p.m. There are 50 students with 1 teacher and 4 adult chaperones assigned to this trip. I respectfully request your approval for this trip. This information should Reading Public Schools be kept on file for Field Trip Plan minimum of 3 years. 1. Trip Coordinator: John Doherty School: RMHS Grade(s)Attending: 9-12 2. Destination: New York City,9-11 Memorial and Museum,Statue of Liberty/Ellis Island 3. Type of Trip: Day Extended X Overnight Out of State 4. Purpose of Trip: The Interact Club is sponsored by Rotary International and is focused on providing community service and citizenship to our local, regional, national,and international community. This trip will be a team building experience for Interact Club members and will learn about Ellis Island,Statue of Liberty,and the 9/11 Memorial and Museum. 5. Date(s)of Trip: November 22,2014 Time of Departure: 3:30 a.m. Time of Return: 11:00 p.m. 6. Cost of Trip: $95 Will there be fundraising?No. If yes,please attach plan. 7. No.of Students Attending: 50 No. of Teachers: 1 No.of other adults: 4 8. Have all adults had the necessary CORI and/or SAFIS Criminal Background Checks: Yes 9. Transportation Required(Circle):4:1:11 Train Boat Plane Private Car Other 10. Name of Company Providing Transportation: Buckingham Bus Company,Groton,MA/Statue Cruises,New York City 11. If this is an overnight trip,is the bus driver getting sufficient rest in accordance with federal regulations and common sense? Yes 12. Departure Information(location and carrier): Reading Memorial High School 13. Return Trip Information(location and carrier): Reading Memorial High School 14. Food and Lodging(if applicable)will be provided by: students will purchase at restaurants 15. Address and Phone No.of Lodging(if applicable) 16. Has the school determined that the facility has adequate insurance consistent with the level of risk involved (e.g.sedentary trip as opposed to outdoor,physically active trip)? If yes,attach a copy of the policy. 17. If swimming is involved,the school has determined that a lifeguard will be on duty at all times when students are in the water. Yes No N/A X 18. Please describe below the educational alternative for those students who will not be attending the trip.The trip is on a Saturday,so there are not any alternatives needed. 19. Please describe the process that will be used to determine student eligibility for the trip. Students need to be members of the Interact Club to participate on the trip. 20. Please attach the following to this document: a. A detailed itinerary of the trip b. Signed state ethics financial disclosure forms from all teachers whose field trip cost will be covered. This is for any field trip where the cost per person is over$50. To access the form,go to http://www.mass.gov/ethics/disclosure-forms/municipal-employee-disclosure-forms/and complete Form 11d,Disclosure of Travel Expenses for Non-Elected/Appointed Employee required by 930 CMR 5.08(2)(d)1. c. A copy of any contract associated with the field trip. d. A list of all adults who will be chaperoning the field trip. The Following Section is for Out of Country Field Trips Only A. Are there any current travel warnings or advisories issued by the State Department?Please go to www.cdc.gov or www.travel.state.gov. Yes No If yes,please explain - --- - B. Have you purchased medical insurance for each day of an out of country field trip? Yes (attach a copy of the policy) C. Is medical preclearance required? Yes No D. Does each student and staff member have the appropriate documentation necessary for travel to the country/countries being visited and for return to the United States? Yes No E. Copies of all students' passports shall be maintained by the Trip Coordinator. F. At least one staff member accompanying the students must have a phone number with international service. Name of Staff Member, Telephone Number To be completed by Reading Public School Administration I certify that all requirements of the • ad'ng Public Schools Field Trip Policy have been fulfilled. 1 21. APPROVED DATE Principal(For All Field Trips) 22. APPROVED 4,' '17✓• DATE I) 3 Jo Superin e dent of Sch. Is(For All Extended,Overnight,Out of State, d nternational Field Trips) School Committe Approval Date(For Overnight,Out of State,and International Field Trips) Reading Public Schools Reading, Massachusetts Parental Consent and Release Form for Field Trips Day Field Trips To be completed by teacher prior to distribution: Trip Coordinator: John Doherty Grade(s)9-12 School: RMHS Date of Trip: November 22,2014 Destination: New York City Destination Address: 9/11 Memorial,Statue of Liberty, New York City Tour Departure Time: 3:30 a.m. Return Site: Reading Memorial High School Return Time: 11:00 p.m. Cost of Trip: $90 Mode of Transportation: Coach Bus/Boat to Ellis Island Purpose of Trip: Interact Field Trip to promote team building and understanding of citizenship and 9/11 Memorial Specific Clothing/Equipment Required for this Trip: Coat,Gloves,Comfortable Walking Shoes The trip will include the following physical and sports activities(e.g. walking, running, swimming,skating, etc.): Walking around city and sites. This Section to be completed by Parent/Guardian Student Name Address Parent/Guardian Name Home Phone Emergency Contact Information: (Day) (Night) (Cell) Student Cell Phone Number (if applicable) Name and phone number of person to call in the event the parent cannot be contacted Insurance Carrier Policy Subscriber's Name Policy Number Consent(To be completed by Parent/Guardian) By signing below, the Parent/Guardian agrees to the following: a) I understand that there are risks of injury associated with the above listed physical and sports activities and I consent to my child's participation in all these activities except for the following: b) Please indicate below any permanent or temporary medical or other condition, including special dietary and medication needs,or the need for visual or auditory aids,which should be known about your child. c) I agree that in the event of an emergency injury or illness,the staff member (s) in charge of the trip may act on my behalf and at my expense in obtaining medical treatment for my child. d) I agree and understand that I am responsible for the actions of my child. I understand that my child is expected to behave responsibly and to follow the rules as outlined in the school handbook and Reading Public School policies. I also understand that if my child does not follow the rules as outlined in the school handbook, appropriate disciplinary actions will be taken. If this is an overnight or extended field trip and if my child is sent home early for disciplinary reasons, I understand that I am responsible for all costs associated with such early departure and forfeit any monies paid that are not refunded to the school. e) I understand that students who violate the school's discipline code may be excluded by the school from participating in a trip. f) I agree to release and hold harmless the Reading Public Schools and its employees and volunteers from any and against any and all liability, loss damages,claims or actions, in accordance with current local, state and federal law, which I and/or my child may have arising out of my child's participation in this trip,except if due to the negligence of school staff. g) I understand that I am responsible for getting my child to and from the departure and return sites identified above,in a timely manner. I understand that my child shall be accompanied by staff member(s) during the trip, including while traveling from the departure site to the destination site, and from the destination site to the return site. h) I give my permission for my child to participate in this school trip. Signature of Parent/Guardian Date Student Declaration (to be signed by Middle School and High School students) I have read this form and I understand that I am to act on this trip in the same responsible manner in which I am expected to conduct myself in school. I accept the rules and regulations set forth by the school and the program for which I am participating. If this is an out of state or international trip, I will obey the rules, regulations,and laws of the state or foreign country. Signature of Student Date John F. Doherty,Ed. D. Craig Martin Superintendent of Schools Assistant Superintendent for Learning and Teaching 82 Oakland Road Reading,R MA 01867 f� Phone:781-944-5800 /,y'` 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: John F. Doherty, Ed.D. Superintendent of Schools DATE: October 30, 2014 TOPIC: Accept a Donation from the Friends of Reading Soccer At our meeting, I am asking the School Committee to accept a donation, in the amount of $1,000, from the Friends of Reading Soccer to be used to support the coaching assistant position for the RMHS Boys Varsity Soccer team. 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. RD C KETS !Friends of Reading Soccer,Inc 1 \/----- October 22,2014 Assistant Superintendent,Finance and Administration Reading Public Schools 82 Oakland Road Reading,MA 01867 Re: 2014 Donation from Friends of Reading Soccer,Inc. to Pay Assistant Varsity Coach To Whom It May Concern; Please accept the enclosed$1,000 donation to the Reading Public Schools from the Friends of Reading Soccer,Inc. for the purpose of making payment to John Paul Cormio,Assistant Coach for Reading Boys Varsity Soccer. If there are any questions or you need any further information,please feel free to contact me by telephone,at 781.439.8348 or by email(jaconroyl@verizon.net). Thank you. Sincerely, Conroy Treasurer Friends of Reading Soccer,Inc. 1 . John F.Doherty,Ed.D. Craig Martin Superintendent of Schools Assistant Superintendent for Learning and Teaching 82 Oakland Road Reading,MA 01867 Phone:781-944-5800 Martha J.Sybert Fax:781-942-9149 ' Director of Finance as 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: October 30, 2014 TOPIC: Accept a Donation to RMHS At our meeting, I am asking the School Committee to accept a donation, in the amount of$2,025 to be used to purchase the Rocket Victory Bell and Plaque that will be placed in front of the field house. Donations of$1,000 have been received from the Class of 2010 and the Class of 2012 as well as a donation in the amount of$25 from Mr. & Mrs. Canavan. 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. NI •Fq0 Y. 39 rxcoa4°sy READING MEMORIAL HIGH SCHOOL Adam D.Bakr John F.Doherty,Ed.D. Principal Superintendent 62 Oakland Road,Reading,Massachusetts 01867 Tel:781-944-8200 Fax:781-942-5435 Michael R.Scarpitto Website:http://www.edline.net/pages/Reading_115 Laura Olsen Thomas J.Zaya Assistant Principals TO: John Doherty,Superintendent of Schools FROM: Adam D. Bakr, Principal DATE: October 27,2014 RE: Gift for Victory Bell Please accept a donation in the amount of$2025.00.The money is to be used for the purchase of a Victory Bell and Plaque placed in front of the Field House. A donation in the amount of$1000.00 was given by the Class of 2010. Another donation in the amount of$1000.00 was received by the class of 2012,and a personal donation from Cindy and Michael Canavan in the amount of$25.00. This Bell is to be rung after any student accomplisments. The bell will not be rung before 7:30am,and the latest will be 9:00pm. If you have any questions or concerns, please let me know. Thank You. John F.Doherty,Ed. D. V Craig Martin Superintendent of Schools Assistant Superintendent 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: John F. Doherty, Ed.D. Superintendent of Schools DATE: October 30, 2014 TOPIC: Accept a Donation from the RMHS Band Parent Organization At our meeting, I am asking the School Committee to accept a donation, in the amount of $10,655 from the RMHS Band Parent Organization to be used to support the coaching assistant positions for the RMHS Marching Band & Color Guard. 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 Memorial High School 1.1""`Mom.. Band Parents Organization PO Box 251 Reading MA 01867 EIN 04-2888658 October 29, 2014 Martha Sybert Director of Finance & Operations 82 Oakland Road Reading MA 01867 Dear Ms. Sybert, Please find enclosed a check for$10,655 as a donation from the RMHS Band Parent Organization to the Reading Public Schools, specifically to the Reading Memorial High School. The BPO executive board voted to support the expenses associated with coaching assistants for the Band's fall show. The band parent's organization recently hosted a NESBA show at RMHS. Our marching band and color guard earned a Gold Award with a score of 90.7. Such an accomplishment would not have been possible without the dedication of everyone involved with the band program, staff, instructors and most importantly, the students. Thank you, Dr. Doherty and the school committee, for the continued support of our mutual goal of promoting the musical education of RMHS Students. Sincerely, Patricia Gernert RMHS BPO Treasurer John F. Doherty,Ed. D. Craig Martin Superintendent of Schools Assistant Superintendent for Learning and Teaching 82 Oakland Road Reading,MA 01867 Phone:781-944-5800 t Martha J.Sybert 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: October 30, 2014 TOPIC: Accept a Donation to RISE At our meeting, I am asking the School Committee to accept a donation of two pieces of equipment to be used to support the physical therapy services at the RISE Preschool. The equipment is valued at approximately$1,500. 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. Carolyn Wilson Superintendent of Schools Director of Student Services Craig Martin —_ 62 Oakland Road =-"==�= Asst Superintendent of Learning As Reading,MA 01867 _ Phone:781-942-9129 Teaching Fax 781-944.8897 Martha J Sybert Director of Finance and Operations Reading Public Schools Instilling a joy of learning and inspiring the innovative leaders of tomorrow October 30,2014 Dr. John F.Doherty, Superintendent Reading Public School 82 Oakland Road Reading,MA 01867 Dear Dr.Doherty, Please accept on behalf of the RISE preschool the generous donation from Yvie's Closet. We are pleased to receive a Gator trainer with an approximate value of$1100 and a Kaye Kinder High Chair with an approximate value of$400 to be used for a student to work on his walking and proper sitting while at RISE. cerely, (WiLeilejkl tolyn it Director T1 ` lent Services C School Committee Members - The Reading Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race,color,sex,gender identity,religion,national origin,sexual orientation, age or disability. lf you would like this document translated,please call 781-670-2883 XifilliaileSettYPAPIT ifflitteti se voce quizer este documento traduzido,por favor ligue•Si quiere que se traduzca este documento,por favor,(lame-Oba oyagala ekiwandiko k Neu Bing muon tai lieu nhy dtrgc dish sang Viet ngfr xin hay goi-ino kivvuunulwe,tukubire essimu-Ukipenda halt hi itafsiriwe,tunapenda otupigle simu•oi Aj--QI °t °fAi°I 2F°ii T,kta 31217 311t 7f ctriOvt W'3941.4-4, o1I a16cl Ul at O 1 lJ qIa ilj l Si ou swete yo tradwi dokiman sa a,rele souple•R£>f®g€edamco n8015sma m60'30)/400=t8 mm,m6te&mad go eTennslaa October 24,2014 RISE Preschool 62 Oakland Road Reading, Ma 10867 To whom it may concern, We at RISE preschool are so pleased to accept the generous donations from Yvie's Closet. They have provided us with a Gator gait trainer with an approximate value of$1100.00 and a Kaye Kinder High Chair with an approximate value of$400.00. These pieces of equipment will allow for a RISE preschool student to work on his walking within the school setting and achieve proper sitting posture at the tables along with his peers. We are very grateful for Yvie's closet,to allow us to provide the care and support to our preschooler. Sincerely, (t'ti&coux,t E 134-0g— Debbie Butts, Director Maria Fitzpatrick, Physical Therapist Alysia Redard, Physical Therapist ; W , g µsP1 tc Closet Equipment Agreement/Policy: 1. All equipment has been donated or recovered from others.Yvie's Closet does its best to clean,maintain and"keep safe" all items. Yvie's Closet does not"repair"any item. 2. Yvie's Closet cannot guarantee the safety or efficacy of any item(s) delivered. 3. Yvie's Closet(and its representatives)cannot assist in determining the appropriateness of any item nor can they suggest equipment. - 4. All recipients of items agree to have items reviewed by a professional certified in determining the appropriateness, safety and efficacy of each item.Said professional will recommend and review each item before use by the recipient.The name and contact information of that professional will be provided to Yvie's Closet for documentation. 5. Yvie's Closet does not accept liability for the misuse of, inappropriateness of,or safety and utilization of items. 6. Recipient accepts the responsibility of assuring safety,appropriateness and use of all items and will not hold Yvie's Closet(or any representative)responsible for any damage or injury from items. 7. Recipient agrees to contact Yvie's Closet for any items that are not appropriate or are delivered with any damage. 8. Recipient will contact Yvie's Closet when their item is no longer needed and Yvie's Closet will pick up said item if it can be made available to another recipient(at no cost). 9. Recipient(or authorized person) agrees to pay the delivery charge for listen item(s).If this is not feasible,an agreement will be made between recipient and Yvie's Closet.Some charges may be waived upon request. The undersigned agrees to all (9)items above: P)(5 R k.� �_t 1-)) - /�� - Recipient Name(printed) Recipient Signature Recipient Name: 11 g �,S c f fey t� Address: (o a- � �> eRA City ktr State MA Zip Ol \07 Email Ph(1) 7g,1 -co.\ - c j2 vl Ph(2) -76 1-01119- on 7q Delivery Fee: 43-1) D- , Paid by • itern# Name Description QTY 130320 Rifton-Pacer Size small beige w/green (attachments listed) 1 140312(A)&(B) Kaye Kinder Chair With tray 2 pcs Professional(item#a above): Name&Title: `Company: Address: Phone: I Email: Delivery Charges up to 3 pieces: $35.00 Fee up to 10 miles from Base as determined by Google Maps or similar Program $50.00 Fee 10-50 miles from Base as determined by Google Maps or similar Program $50.00 Fee plus$1.00 per mile above 50 miles from base as determined by Google Maps or similar Program P 0 Box 636 Londonderry NH 03053 (603) 818-1554 Website: WWW.YVIESCLOSET.ORG Email:yviesclosetegmail com Town of Reading fa e� Meeting Minutes a .. .., ,._. Board - Committee - Commission - Council: DRAFT School Committee Date: 2014-10-20 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 Chuck Robinson Craig Martin, Assistant Superintendent Gary Nihan Carolyn Wilson, Director of Student Services Chris Caruso Elaine Webb Members - Not Present: Others Present: Andrea Nastri, Student Representative Carl Gillies, Student Representative Al Sylvia, Reading Chronicle Carla Pennacchio, ELL Teacher Karen Feeney, Joshua Eaton Principal Joanne Senders, Reading Advocate 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 7:02 p.m. He reviewed the agenda and welcomed guests. II. Recommended Procedure A. Public Input(I) Chair Caruso called for public input. Marianne Downing, Eaton parent, commented on her concerns regarding the action plan to address the MCAS test scores at Joshua Eaton. She asked if there was a correlation between the MCAS scores and the new standards based report card. She also expressed concerns regarding overcrowding at the Joshua Eaton and asked if large class sizes are a contributing factor to the decline in MCAS scores. Page 1 1 Eileen Manning, Eaton parent, also expressed concerns regarding the action plan. She feels there should be measurable steps, communication with parents and the process should be as transparent as possible. Dr. Doherty assured the parents that the administration is addressing the MCAS concerns and have started by adding Title 1 funds to Joshua Eaton to provide for tutoring for any student that needs help in math and ELA. He also indicated that there is much going on in preparation for the next steps. Ms. Feeney shared that she has been working diligently with her staff to complete a state assessment tool to evaluate the needs. She will be working with the School Advisory Council to gather input from parents and using a blog,twitter and Facebook to reach out to parents. Addressing these concerns needs to be a collaborative effort between parents,teachers and the community. Dr. Doherty pointed out that the use of assessment tools goes beyond MCAS. We will be looking at the entire school to determine what is working and what is not. The solutions need to be sustainable, it is not meant to be a quick fix. Sheri VanderAkker,Eaton parent, asked if the self-assessment results would be accessible. Dr. Doherty said that information will be available after it has been completed. Ms. VanderAkker felt that perhaps changes be made to the make-up of the School Council. Gina Martin,Eaton parent asked that Ms. Feeney's blog be tied to Edline. B. Reports Students Student Representative Gillies reported that the top 6 RMHS golfers competed in the state tournament,the football team will be playing for the Middlesex League title this week and the Infant HIV Awareness Project will be holding a fundraiser. Student Representative Nastri reported that the Rocket Bell has returned for being repaired. The annual Drama Club's Shocktoberfest event is this Friday in the Performing Arts Center and a group from the Chorus attended the 2014 Terezin Music Foundation Gala at Symphony Hall. Sub-Committee Mrs. Borawski reported on the recent Recreation Committee meeting. She shared that the Recreation Department held several programs on the recent in-service day and will be hosting the first annual Downtown trick or treat event on October 29th Dr. Snow Dockser followed up on Ms.Nastri's report regarding the Terezin Gala. She said it was a powerful,thought provoking experience and was glad she was able to accompany the Chorus members on the trip. Dr. Snow Dockser also attended the Parker MCAS presentation and thanked Mr. Lyons for providing a thorough understanding of the MCAS data. Page 12 Mrs. Webb reminded the community of the upcoming World Café event on Thursday night in the field house. The event will be an open dialogue with members from several communities on opioid abuse. She also reminded the community of the Financial Forum on October 29th C. New Business (out of order) Joshua Eaton School Presentation Principal Karen Feeney began by saying that work was done over the summer to review the school's vision. The vision was changed to "Jaguars make all things PAWS-sible"by practicing compassion, acting responsible, working towards success and showing respect. Once the vision was revised, implementation of the Multi-Tiered System of Student Support(MTSS) for behavior at Joshua Eaton was begun. The MTSS process includes supporting each student's social, emotional and academic needs through the analysis of data and grade level team collaboration to identify the supports that may be needed for each student. MTSS is part of the districtwide vision and there is a need for consistency for behaviors, expectations, and interventions. This consistency is important for the students as well as the adults in the building. The vision was used to develop a Behavior Matrix that would show what the core values would look like in different school environments. Students that do not exhibit appropriate behaviors will be given a "PAWS and Think" sheet. The student will meet one on one with the teacher to review the behavior and ways to choose a different option. This sheet is sent home to the parents for their review and to reinforce positive behavior. Students can also earn"SPOTS"for demonstrating positive behaviors in school. Ms. Feeney went onto explain that a SPOT Hall of Fame has been created and is a great motivator for the students. Principal Feeney continued the presentation explaining that the Student Support Teams (SST) meet every six weeks as grade level teams to look at and analyze data. Using this data they create plans to provide interventions to support learners. The SST is made up of the Reading specialist, school psychologist, special education staff, speech & language pathologists and teachers. They will also meet on an as needed basis. Ms. Feeney reviewed the data sources that are referenced by the SSTs which include MCAS and Dibels assessments. The use of this data allows the teams to provide the needed services and supports for all students using the three tiers of the MTSS model. Tier Two supports provide short term interventions for students whose behavioral patterns (data) indicate they haven't mastered the skills they need to consistently practice behaviors that represent school wide values. Tier Three supports provide intensive longer term interventions to behavioral patterns (data) indicate they haven't mastered the skills they need to consistently practice behaviors that represent school wide values. This does not always mean special education. By addressing the student's social emotional behavior teachers are able to spend more time on instruction, students are identified and provided supports;teachers are able to share best practices to support each other and the students and parents receive accurate information about their child's progress. Ms. Feeney reviewed the next steps at Joshua Eaton to support student progress which include added math support to the school as well as math tutoring for Page 13 students that are low performing in math. These tutors will be funded out of the Title 1 grant. Teachers will collaborate at the district and building levels as part of the PLC work. Seven Joshua Eaton teachers recently visited neighboring districts that have been using the Math in Focus curriculum for a longer period of time. The teachers were able to observe and talk to the teachers at these schools as to what works and doesn't work when teaching. Chair Caruso thanked Ms. Feeney for sharing at tonight's meeting. Full Day Kindergarten Discussion The student representatives left the meeting at 8:09 p.m. Dr. Doherty provided an overview of full day kindergarten in Reading. Full day kindergarten was introduced during the 2005-06 school year. Each school had 1 full day classroom. At the time the demand for full day kindergarten was not as great. Over the years the demand has increased to a point where this year 71%of our kindergarten students attend full day. As demand has increased the need for classroom space has become a concern. When Wood End was built the goal was to provided dedicated music and art spaces. These spaces are now being used to accommodate the increased number of full day kindergarten students. Dr. Doherty reviewed the memorandum that was included in the packet. The School Committee asked clarifying questions on the classroom breakdown by program and current and future space needs at each school. The Superintendent went on to review the three options to address the space needs for the incoming kindergarten class. Option one was to limit the number of full day classrooms to one per building. In some cases a lottery may be needed. Option two was to limit the number of kindergarten classes to three per building and option three would be to eliminate full day kindergarten. Mr. Caruso indicated he would not entertain option three. Members of the School Committee agreed that eliminating full day kindergarten would be taking a step backwards in the best practices to meet the educational needs of our students. Dr. Doherty referred to the elementary enrollment chart and pointed out that we have been successful in balancing class sizes across the district and acknowledges that there are a couple of areas for concern. Mrs. Borawski pointed out that the Superintendent is looking for direction from the Committee for next year. Members of the audience asked questions regarding full day kindergarten and the space concerns in our elementary schools. They asked if the use of modular classrooms had been discussed as well as redistricting the elementary schools. Dr. Doherty pointed out that redistricting is not an option except for during the kindergarten registration process when we determine if there are cohorts of children that could possibly be placed in a school other than their traditional home school. We have not begun that process to determine if we will have to redistrict any students. He also pointed out that the first meeting of the Early Childhood Space Needs Working Group would be held on October 22nd and is a public meeting. Page 14 Mr. Caruso revised the agenda for the evening by postponing the second readings of the policies. Mr. Caruso called a brief recess at 9:47 p.m. The meeting was called back to order at 9:54 p.m. Coordinated Program Review Discussion Director of Student Services Carolyn Wilson provided an update on Special Education and the recent Coordinated Program Review. She shared the work she has done as part of her entry plan since she began in July. She has reviewed student records and procedures, met with parents, teachers and administrators and conducted observations in the buildings. She hopes to review and identify trends and priorities, create action steps and share plans with stakeholders with the information she has gathered. Mrs. Wilson went onto describe what Special Education is,reviewed the special education beliefs and laws and regulations that drive the services provided to our students. She explained the referral and evaluation process. Any adult can refer a student for services and can be made at any time. The evaluation would address the area of suspected disability. An educational assessment is required and all evaluations are done in the schools. The evaluation process takes between 2 and 8 hours with the child and additional time to complete the report. The district has 30 days to complete the evaluation once the consent form is received and 15 days after the evaluation is done to provide the results. Student eligibility is based on the law and the questions that need to be asked include: Is the Child making progress? If not is the lack of progress a result of the disability; and does the child require specially designed instruction or related service to access the curriculum. Mrs. Wilson then reviewed the six basic principles of Special Education Laws and Regulations. Parent/Student participation: Parents have to provide written consent for their child to participate in any aspect of special education,be notified of team meetings and may revoke consent at any time. Free and Appropriate Public Education(FAPE): Students with disabilities are entitled to access to free and appropriate public education and it must be "a program that is reasonably calculated to ensure meaningful benefit". Appropriate Evaluation: A student's evaluation must consider all areas of suspected disability and comprehensive enough to answer the "referral"questions and to determine if a child has one or more educational disabilities present. IEP: The IEP must be individualized to address the student's disability related weakness, must include explicit accommodations, must be reviewed annually and provide written progress reports several times a year. Least Restrictive Environment: students with disabilities are entitled to be educated alongside their peers to the greatest extent possible. Procedural Safeguards: Parent have the first and final say before any action is taken and the district or parents can ask for mediation or a due process hearing to clarify and settle any disputes. Mrs. Wilson reviewed the supports in place in Reading which include several programs,teachers, therapists and counselors. She then reported on the Coordinated Program Review conducted last spring. These reviews are conducted every three years and focus on compliance. Special Page 15 Education, Civil Rights and other General Education Requirements and ELL were the areas of focus. Interviews were conducted with administrative, teaching and support staff as well as a parent from the PAC and an ELL parent. The group reviewed student records and they surveyed parents of student with disabilities, ELL students and conducted classroom observations. We have submitted a corrective action plan for areas that were not in full compliance. Mrs. Borawski asked what we were looking for in the data. Mrs. Wilson said we will ensure that we are finding quality programming for students that require services and to continue to place students in appropriate programming. Approval of Coolidge 8th Grade Field Trip to Quebec Mr. Robinson moved,seconded by Mrs. Borawski,to approve the Coolidge 8th grade field trip to Quebec in the spring of 2015. Dr. Doherty shared that he had met with Principal Marchant and teacher Janet Klein to review the trip. The motion carried 6-0. Approval of Coolidge 7th Grade Field Trip to Nature's Classroom Mr. Robinson moved,seconded by Mrs. Borawski,to approve the Coolidge 7th grade field trip to Nature's Classroom in April of 2015. The motion carried 6-0. D. Continued Business III. Routine Matters a. Bills and Payroll (A) The following warrants were circulated and signed. Warrant S1516 10.9.14 $175,292.34 Warrant S1517 10.16.14 $262,419.01 Warrant P1508 10.10.14 $1,425,091.76 b. Minutes (A) Mr.Robinson moved, seconded by Mrs. Webb,to approve the Financial Forum minutes dated September 10,2014. The motion carried 6-0. Mr. Robinson moved,seconded by Mrs. Borawski,to approve the pen session minutes dated October 6,2014. The motion carried 5-0-1. Mrs. Webb abstained. c. Bids and Donations (A) Page 16 Donations Mr. Robinson moved, seconded by Mrs. Borawski, to accept the donation in the amount of$1,000 from the RMHS PTO to be used to support the purchase of materials for the RMHS Library. The motion carried 6-0. d. Calendar Mr. Caruso said the School Committee will do the second readings of the policies at a future meeting. He also reminded the School Committee of the Financial Forum on October 29th IV.Information V. Future Business VI.Adjournment Mr. Robinson moved, seconded by Dr. Snow Dockser, to adjourn. The motion carried 6-0. The meeting adjourned at 10:29 p.m. NOTE: The minutes reflect the order as stated in the posted meeting agenda not the order they occurred during the meeting. Pagel ? 2014-2015 School Committee Meeting Date School Presenting @ mtg. Nov.3rd School Committee @ CMS Office Hours Robinson&Webb Nov.4th State Election Nov. 10th Town Meeting Nov. 13th School Committee Prior to Town Meeting Nov. 13th Town Meeting Nov. 15th Retreat 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 June 1st School Committee Office Hours June 15th School Committee All meetings are in the Superintendent's Conference Room at 7:00 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Dates and locations subject to change. (Bold indicates new or changed date or location.