HomeMy WebLinkAboutAnnual Report 2008 - Part 3READING PUBLIC LIBRARY
Reading Public Library Board of Library Trustees
Cberrie Dubois, Richard H. Curtis, Karyn Storti, Victoria Yablonsky (Secretary), Susan
Hopkins Axelson (Chairman), David Hutchinson (Vice- Chairman)
A Messaue from the Chairman of the Board of Library Trustees
There seems to be an abundance of bad news these days. Yes, we are in a serious
economic downturn, and yes, the Library Trustees needed to cut Library services in FY 2010.
As this Annual Report is being written, our very popular Sunday afternoon hours are in
jeopardy of being lost to budget cuts. This is the grim news.
But there are reasons to feel grateful. We have enthusiastic Reading residents who are
now, in essence, "voting with their feet" by seeking out Library services in record numbers.
Library programs attendance has increased, as has the demand for books, DVDs and
computers. With the funding from the Reading Public Library Foundation, the Library
opened a fantastic new computer lab. And with the Friends of the Reading Public Library's
support, we can continue to offer our award winning Summer Reading Programs for all ages,
Toddler Singalongs, and a larger variety of museum passes and other programs.
With Ruth's direction, a building assessment was performed in the Summer of 2008
by Richard Smith of Adams & Smith Architects. The resulting document outlined many of
the deficiencies in our beautiful but aging building. The Trustees continue to dream and
discuss. In the coming months, we will begin to plan a course of action to maintain and
improve this historic building.
Beyond the books, computers and databases, we are most grateful for the Library staff.
I think we all can agree that without the knowledge, skill, creativity and sense of humor of our
talented librarians and Director, the Reading Public Library would be just an old building full
of books. These talented women have become our resources, friends and teachers. They
constitute the most essential ingredient in a successful Library — which is the heart of our
community.
Respectfully submitted,
Suzy Axelson, Library Trustee and Chairman
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Library Use is UP!
If you ask a staff member or "Library regular" about busyness at the Reading Public
Library lately, you'll probably hear about the impossibly crowded parking lot, or the wait at
the circulation desk, or the number of kids showing up for story times.
Here are a few facts to round out the picture!
Reference Transactions
Reference transactions or patrons who ask at the Information Desk for research or
assistance has risen by 12% over one year. Reference transactions in the children's room are
up by 10 %. Over the past twelve years, the number of reference transactions has grown from
just under 40,000 annually to over 60,000 in the past two years.
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65.000
60.000
55.000
50.000
05,000
40.000
35.000
30.000
25.000
Reference Transactions
1996 -2008
Circulation
Reading Public Library continues to be a leader in the north of Boston network with
circulations of 17.86 per capita placing us among the top public libraries in our population
group. Fall 2008 circulation was up for both children's and adult materials by 12% over Fall
2007.
Below is a chart showing Library circulation from 325,667 in 1996 to 440,610 in
2008:
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500,000
450,000
400,000
350.000
300,000
250,000
Circulation: Number of Books and Media Loaned Annually
1996.2008
Interlibrary Loan
We learned from the market survey conducted in June 2007 that interlibrary loan is
one of our most important services. heading patrons' usage of this service has skyrocketed
over the past three years: There's been a 73% increase in materials borrowed from other
Massachusetts libraries and a 65% increase in materials borrowed from out of state. Tracing
the service from 1996, the number of interlibrary loans annually has gone from 11,773 to
57,948 in 2008.
70,000
60,000
50,000
S
40.000
e
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$ 30.000
i
20.000
10,000
0
Interlibrary Loan 1996 -2008
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 6 9 10 11 12 13
1996 -2008
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Programs
Attendance at programs has also risen. Children's programs like Storytimes, Singalongs,
educational and recreational programs have seen a 27% increase in Fall 2008 over Fall 2007. Adult
programs including author visits, movie screenings, book discussion groups, and informational
presentations and discussions have seen a 67% increase.
LiveWires: Lifelong Learning In the Library
The LiveWires Program series is designers for persons in midlife and beyond to introduce
them to different ways of thinking about midlife and retirement. We offered two programs each
month, a morning Coffee & More series that presented a speaker on a particular topic of interest to
older adults, and an evening LiveWires Presents series that consisted of featured speakers (authors,
noted people), book discussions and film discussions, both with a professional person as facilitator.
LiveWires: Nutrition Program
This series is funded by the Reading Lions Club, the Friends
of the Reading Public Library and anonymous donors.
In 2008, the LiveWires program was named "exemplary" by
Libraries for the Future and the Library has been awarded a
$2000 Center of Excellence award to support programming
and enhance Equal Access to Library services for all.
LiveWires: Morning Musical Montage
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LiveWires Speaker Jay Atkinson
Reading Public Library
Stoogeapalooza
Adults enjoyed a side- splitting Laugh Your Head Off summer reading program. The
program culminated with our first Stoogeapalooza on July 22nd with 63 attendees. It was a great
evening of fun with our very own Moe, Larry and Curly (librarians all!) We showed films, led a
songfest, did a trivia contest, had a `best costume' contest, pick your favorite Stooge run -off and
refreshments.
December StoryWalk
Reading Public Library Librarians and staff members worked with Walkable Reading to
plan and carry out a StoryWalk on Haven Street as part of the Town Tree Lighting activities this
Winter. This was a wonderful new collaborative event with planning by Walkable Reading, book
selection and bookmarks by Reading Public Library, story art by Creative Arts and reading by all!
Other program highlights of 2008
included an evening with author
Stewart O'Nan for a lively discussion
of his latest book "Last Night at the
Lobster."
Public ComnutinR
Author Stewart O'Nan
NetGuides.
NetGuides, high school students trained by librarians, taught more than 50 one -on -one
technology classes. In addition, they worked four days a week offering on call assistance.
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Computer Lab
The Grand Opening of the updated Computer Lab took place in October. The renovation,
funded by the Reading Public Library Foundation included new computer chairs, adjustable desks
with wire management trays and CPU holders, flat screens, book and material display holders, new
artwork and a fresh paint job.
Members of the Board of Directors, Reading Public Library Foundation, and guests
celebrate the new computer lab dedication on a Sunday afternoon in October?
Computer usage has dramatically increased, particularly since the early Fall of 2008. For
most of the past year, 15 computers on the main floor have been in constant use during peak after-
school hours. The small `Business Center" with scanner, color printer, shredder and business
software has gone from sporadic use to over 60 uses per month.
Public demand for computers has surged to a point that almost exceeds the Library's ability
to meet it. Reference librarians currently are surveying patrons about computer usage. The results
of the survey will help the Library decide how to address this burgeoning need — one of the
decisions under consideration is creating time limits on the PCs to broaden access for more patrons.
f The Library is committed to providing full and equal access to public computing, online resources
and appropriate technology. One sure solution is to upgrade, replace and repair broken and worn
' out equipment promptly, and shorten downtime across the board. The Library is also gearing up to
i be the first Library in our network to provide laptops for public use in the Library.
Another way to measure computer use is through logins -- comparison of logins on the main
Library screens for the period September to December 2008 over September to December 2007
shows an increase of 20 %. Login to the Library s on Sundays in October, November, and
December 2008 totaled 4,310. (Webtrends NOBLE Report, March 2009)
Local History
The Spud Murphy Postcard collection (and many historical photographs) have been
t digitized through two grants from the Celebration Trust. In 2008, the entire collection became a
part of the Digital Commonwealth through a weekly process called "harvesting" and is searchable
at http• / /www di ig talcommonwealth.org.
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Reading Public Library
In addition to the enhanced access through scanning and digitizing, 90% (357 items) of the
newly digitized historical photograph collection have been fully cataloged, and are searchable easily
with keywords and subject searches from anywhere!
Student volunteers from Simmons and Salem State Colleges worked under the stewardship of
the Local History Librarian to create authority records for the businesses in Reading Center through
time. The students posted their research on a blog at http: / /www.noblenet.orMocal history/
Mrs. Albert Converse's Living Room
This photo offers a rare opportunity to see the interior of a Reading home in the late 1800's
Reference Services
Based on a 2007 usage survey, we reorganized the reference collection, shifting many of the
books to the basement collection and creating a small (100 book) revitalized "Ready Reference"
collection next to the Information Desk.
The reassessing and reorganizing of reference collections is a new trend in public libraries.
We've been in high demand to share the planning and implementation of the project at both
regional meetings and local libraries.
In September of 2008, through a great team effort, we completed the final stage of the
project by reusing the former reference room space as a multipurpose room for reading/studying,
expanded Teen and new Large Print area. The beautiful new space has been warmly received by
customers of all ages.
This shift also freed up space in the Fiction room for our growing Fiction and Mystery
collections. Related changes include shifting the microfilm and cabinets into the Local History
Room as well as creating new areas through out the first and second floor for lap top users.
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Finally, we have a wonderful new sitting area thanks to the generous donation of the Tully
family given in memory of Kay Krekorian. This has proved to be a very popular area for group
projects, laptop users and anyone seeking a sunny, comfortable place to read.
Red Rover Reference Arrives!
As our reference collection expanded throughout the Library, so did our service. In the first
month of Red Rover Reference service, 54 people were given research, quick reference and
computing assistance without having to find a librarian or go to a service desk. This innovative
project allows reference librarians to roam through the Library equipped to serve people wherever
they are.
Librarians are equipped with head sets and tablet
PCs to go beyond the Information desk and help
customers throughout the main floor and
basement stacks.
Most of the assistance provided in the first few
weeks was in response to unsolicited questions
that might not have been asked — nor answers
given -- had the librarian not been available
where the patrons were.
Roving Reference Librarian on the go!
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Reading Public Library
New Online Services
The Library introduced the public to a number of new online databases this year including
OverDrive, our downloadable book program; Milestone Documents in American History," a
primary source tool for students; Magill's Medical Guide and two reader's advisory tools Novelist
Plus and NextReads.
The Library also now offers online room booking. Through a link on our web page, users
book the meeting room, conference room, display table and business center office.
`Tweens and Teens Services
In October of 2008, teen librarians completed
the first year in a two -year $20,000 grant
period. Report statistics show an increase in
teen circulation (11.38 %), teen Summer
reading participants (27.6 %) and volunteers
(8 %).
Teen Spot Improvements included an expanded
space of 150 sq. feet and an added general study
area outside the Teen Spot.
The Library offered 15 programs for 'tweens
and teens, with a total of 112 attendees. Gaming
nights averaged 4.2 students per event, movies
averaged six students per showing, and craft
sessions averaged 11 participants. The final
program of the Summer, the "Outrageous
Olympics and Ice Cream Gala," garnered 30
participants
Outreach and communications improved with the implementation of the ReadslnMA
mailing list used for Summer program announcements and newsletters.
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The librarians updated 10 booklists and
developed three "read - alike" bookmarks with
suggested titles for middle and high school
students.
The librarians distributed over 1200 Library
card applications to middle school and high
school media specialists. The school media
specialists and public librarians are working
together to raise Library awareness among
`tweens and teens.
Tie Dying Craft 2008
Children's Room Highlights — 2008
Children's Room Librarians introduced a number of terrific new services to accommodate
working parents! The Evening Lapsit storytime groups (for ages 0 -2), the Drop -in Storytime groups
(for ages 2 -4 and 5 -7) and the Special Sunday Family Storytimes were all extremely well - received
by busy families.
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The Children's Room worked with community businesses and organizations and produced
i some wonderful events for the public. The Reading Co- Operative Bank sponsored a three -part
music program, Sing, Move, Create and Groove led by Reading resident Michele DeMartinis.
Librarians worked with Walkable Reading and Creative Arts to hold a holiday StoryWalk that took
place as part of the Town Tree Lighting. The Children's Room's Summer mascot, Reado the parrot
"hid" in the windows of Reading businesses during the Downtown renovation. Over 600 children
reported finding him in the windows of The Hot Spot, Reading Co- Operative Bank, The Chocolate
Truffle, Salon Muffle and Emperor's Choice, hopefully, increasing foot traffic in the Downtown.
Thanks to the Friends of the Library and other wonderful contributors, the Children's
i Summer Reading Program, RU Kidding was a huge hit! With 1142 readers reading well over
15,000 hours, nearly 6000 people attending 74 programs and 38 volunteens working almost 400
f i hours, we are not kidding when we say that the program was a real crowd- pleaser and reading
motivator.
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Reading Public Library
Some program highlights included the Captain Underpants Party, Tongue Twister Contest,
"Tickle My Funnybone" Writing Contest, Comedy Magic with Steve Rudolph, Mad Hatter Tea
Party, Play with Your Food crafts, Amelia Bedelia Storytime at the Parker Tavern, Vehicle Day,
Mt. Mushers and the final "Ants in your Pants" family picnic.
Children's Room staff and Facilities Departments worked together for a budget - conscious,
"green" mini - makeover of the Children's Room this year which freshened up the 25 year old space
considerably! Wails and trim were repainted with low VOC paint, and a brand new low VOC
carpet was .installed with the old carpeting reused as padding. Some new shelving helped relieve
some of the overcrowding. Four new public computers and six new monitors updated old
equipment and more Microsoft Office licenses expanded capabilities. While still crowded, the
space is brighter and nicer for children and their families.
Working as partners with the Reading Public Schools, public librarians registered new
teachers for special Library cards and PINs, created over 100 deposit collections for classrooms and
presented numerous literature enrichment programs in classrooms. Library programs are now being
promoted electronically through School Department's Edline system.
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Connecting with the public electronically will be dramatically improved when this year's
work on the new Library website is complete. Children's librarians polled parents on anticipated
use and form, and have been working on the new design and content with our colleagues. A Spring
2009 launch is anticipated!
In 2008, the Children's Room was an extremely busy, well used place with nearly 155,000
items circulated (an increase of 8.4 %). The number of reference questions (over 25,000), programs
(325) and program attendees (nearly 14,000) all increased from 14% over 2007.
Vehicle Day, a Special Summer Ritual at the Reading Public Library
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Circulation Department
2008 was a busy year in the Circulation Department. We circulated museum passes 66%
more times in 2008 than in 2007. (1607 museum pass bookings for 2008, 1063 for 2007). Our
overall circulation was up 6.85% this year from last year and interlibrary loan activity continues to
skyrocket, with nearly a dozen red bins overflowing with books and a -v media coming and going
daily.
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Reading Public Library
New Book Drops
One of the most requested items on our community survey was a drive up book drop. We
fulfilled this request in September with two shiny new book drops! 'These drops hold a large
amount of material, CDs/DVDs are separated out from the books (keeping them safe from harm).
Most cars can pull right up to the drop, and Library users can put items right into the book drop
without getting out of the car.
Sundays!
Sunday afternoon opening returned in October for the first time in many years! And
Reading is ' taking advantage of the new convenience: Sundays have been very busy since the
beginning, we've circulated a total of 6,631 items to 1,667 people on the Sundays we've been open.
Building Assessment
Adams & Smith LLC
Architects /Consultants of Swampscott was engaged to assess existing building conditions in
May of 2008. The assessment was conducted by Richard Smith of Adams & Smith, James Balmer
of Boston Building Consultants and Muzi 7,ade of Zade Partners LLC.
The Board of Library Trustees have been reviewing the report carefully, and working with
Town officials to implement the findings.
Here is the Executive Summary of the 22 page report:
"The existing building is a former elementary school built in 1894 which was converted to a
Library in 1984. The building has limitations imposed by the planning and structure of the original
construction, as well as by the approach to structural reinforcement of the 1984 renovations. It also
has issues presented by the present age of the building systems installed in the conversions and by
issues of accessibility compliance to code.
Finally, it has issues generated by the changing nature of Library functions, and the impact
of computerization on both Library service and staff workspace requirements.
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Certain components of the building envelope should be given a high priority for repair or
replacement. They include:
• Masonry repair or reconstruction in the chimneys and the porte cochere on the Middlesex
Avenue side.
• Correction of water infiltration at the west end of the basement, addressing gutters and
downspouts, underground piping and grading against the building.
• Replacement of windows in poor condition in many areas.
• Repair of rotted wood and termite damage to exterior woodwork.
• Replacement in kind of corroded downspouts.
• Restoration of insulation in the attic.
Major accessibility issues that should be addressed include:
• Construction and condition of the ramp to the main entrance.
• Handrail and guard issues at the main stairs.
• Clearances and dead end aisles in stack areas.
• Plumbing fixtures and clearances at the first floor.
Electrical and data system issues include:
• Lighting layout, coverage and efficiency.
• Availability of power for library patrons using the wireless network.
• An obsolete fire alarm system.
Security issues include:
• Poor lighting and overgrown plantings around the building.
• Doors to the fire stairs, especially at the Children's Room.
• Lack of a functioning book detection and security system.
• Lack of visual surveillance of AN collection, corridor at second floor toilet rooms and
'. basement study areas.
Library planning and functional issues include:
• Functional planning issues in staff work areas, especially the circulation desk and backup
spaces, the second floor staff offices, Technical Services and the Children's Room.
• Overcrowding, poor lighting and lack of collections and program space for the Children's
Room. Lack of quiet study and tutorial spaces.
• Need to replan the first floor browsing area.
• Limitations on floor loading of the existing floor framing will limit stack height and spacing
in many areas.
• D.ysfunctional lighting and audio visual systems in the main meeting room.
• Replanning and reuse of the former back periodicals area in the northeast corner of the
{ ! basement.
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Reading Public Library
Plannins `
The ideas of more than 1500 members of the Reading community form the basis for the i
Library's new plan:
Reading Public Library: Plan of Service 2009 -2014
Connect & Explore ■ Enaase & Inspire • Learn & Grow
Eighteen months of data gathering, community and staff meetings, Trustees' planning {
sessions, demographic study, facilitated meetings with Friends and Foundation board members,
focus groups and broad and targeted surveys have been summarized in an effort to capture the
unique flavor of Reading. Many people associated with the Library - staff, Trustees, Friends and
Foundation members - have engaged in rigorous, exciting and visionary planning and goal- setting
sessions in the Library and in community -wide processes.
The result of this intense listening and learning is a plan that strives to secure a place for the
Library at the center of this individual community for now and into the future.
Certain dominant themes recur: The interest and support Reading has in its children's
education and well being, the busyness of family life, the unique flavor of Reading as a community
of neighborhoods with clear identities and designations, the affection people have for the old -
fashioned, small town character of the Town, its walk ability, community schools, parks and general
neighborliness, the intense interest in local government and the number of people involved in civic
organizations, activities and volunteering, and the high standards set by a stable, committed and
open local government with a deep interest in preserving its past and building and sustaining its
future responsibly, fairly, and progressively.
Copies of the plan are available at the Library — come share our excitement and envision the
future with us!
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The Reading Public Library Board of Library Trustees extend sincere thanks to all the
people who participated in the planning in various ways, to the 1200+ people who thoughtfully
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provided input through the community survey, to the Library staff who put in a lot of extra time and
effort and energetic brainstorming, and to the 23 members of the community who served on the
Community Planning Committee.
Budge
We are fortunate to have completed the planning process just before the full force of the
current economic downturn was felt. The Board of Library Trustees and Library administration
were able to use information gathered through planning to make well4tiformed, community
responsive decisions about budgeting. The Trustees brought a thorough understanding of
community priorities and a unanimous commitment to preserving essential services including {.
Sunday openings to the budget process and their several meetings with the Selectmen and Finance
Committee.
The Municipal Appropriation for the Library covers approximately 92% (FY09) of annual is
expenditures, including 100% of salaries. Grants (including State Aid), Gifts, Trust income, fees
and support from Friends and Foundation combine to provide support for adult, teen and children's
programs, museum passes, new furniture, some computer upgrades, special activities and displays,
children's singalongs and Summer reading, some magazine subscriptions, Annual Staff Day, some
portion of spending on books and materials, and a local history digitizing project.
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Reading Public Library
Library Expenditures and Funding - FY 2009
Circulation
$192,962
Children's Services
$217,928
ReferenceNA/Adult
$231,627
Admin
$172,429
Technical Services
$97,630
Sunda s
$38,679
Total Salaries
$951,255
Software/Equip Contracts
$7,170
Prof Dev /Cunt Ed
$5,635
NOBLE Network
$46,481
Circ & Proc supplies w
$5,340
Pa er,' Printers, Supplies.
$10,225
Public Technology
$8,500
Books and Materials
$176,500
Total Expenses
$259,851
GRAND TOTAL
$1,211,106
In FY 2009, the municipal appropriation of $1,211,106 represented 92% of all revenue
sources. The remaining $107,531 (8 %) came from these sources:
Library Revenue (FY09) - Detail: Non - Municipal Sources
Gifts
$12,305
11%
Grants
$52,165
49%
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Friends & Foundation
$35.200
33%
Trusts Income
$2,281
2%
Fees
$5,580
5%
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Reading Public Library
Total Library Expenditures for FY 2009 are as follows:
Library Expenditures FY09
t:
Equip & Software
Sundays 2%
3%
Technical Services Books and Materials
15
6% y15%
Programs
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2%
{� NetvrodUConnectivity
Circulation 4% Public Technology
15% -
Continuing Ed
1%
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Teen Services
NO
Children's Services
16%
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Ref. Info Services
13 °k
Admin & Support
13%
Thank you!
It's clear that the Library depends upon the generosity of its friends, neighbors and
benefactors for its many programs and services that make it a true center of the community.
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The hard work of the Board of Library Trustees, the gifts and contributions of the Reading
Public Library Foundation and the Friends of the Reading Public Library, and the essential support
provided by the people of Reading, the Town Manager, Board of Selectmen and Finance
Committee make it an ongoing pleasure to strive to provide outstanding Library services to this
appreciative and enthusiastic community. ( '
We thank the Reading Public School Department for its management of the facility and (.
support for capital projects, and for working with us to coordinate programs and services to school
children and families. The outstanding cooperation and support from all Town departments in
Reading make our days brighter and our jobs rewarding and easier.
What makes the Reading Public Library a great place to gather, to work, to grow and learn,
are all of you!
As for the Reading Public Library staff — well, they are, simply the very best!
Respectfully submitted,
Ruth S. Urell, Director
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Reading Public Library Foundation, Inc.
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John Brzezenski, President
Bill Hecht, Vice President
Neil Cohen, Secretary
Amy Coumounduros, Treasurer
Directors include the above
officers and:
Bill Anthony
Bruce Austin
Lynne Cameron
Dick Curtis
Gerald Fiore
Russell Graham
Gene Nigro
Robert Nordstrand
Maria Silvaggi
Reading Public Library
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Reading.Public Library
The Reading Public Library Foundation presented Pulitzer - Prize - winning Boston Globe arts writer,
Mark Feeney, in the Foundation's 2008 Helen Nigro Speaker Series. Mr. Feeney's topic was "My
Library Life." He described how libraries helped him to become who he is by giving him the
books, magazines, newspapers and the solitude and space to explore freely all kinds of writing,
thinking and authors. Libraries of every description became a "second place" for Mr. Feeney, a
home away from home that welcomed him wherever he was. One of the best things a Library can
do is create an environment for discovery and then, leave a curious youngster alone to discover
words, writing and his own "Library Life."
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Reading Public Library — Personnel
Director — Ruth S. Urell
Assistant Director - Dorota Socha
Technical Secretary — Nancy Smethurst
Reference Division
Division Head — Lorraine Barry
Adult & Elder Services Librarian — Nancy Aberman
Local History Librarian — Rachel Baumgartner
Young Adult Librarians — Susan Beauregard, Amy Lannon
Promotional Services Librarian -- Kathleen Miksis
Reference Librarians -- Eileen Barrett, Patricia Kelly, Danielle Kimcrer
Technical Services
Division Head -- Jamie Penney
Senior Library Associate — Allison DaSilva
Senior Technician — Dawn Colford
Pages — Mary DeSisto
Circulation Division
Division Head — Michelle A. Filleul
Technicians — Donna Beaulieu
Dawn Didham Colford
Maureen Conwell
? Mary Ellen Downey
Madeleine Gillis
Susan R. Haggerty
Carol Macomber
+ Patrice A. O'Donnell
+ Joanne H. Penta
Christine Rutigliano
t Danielle Kimerer
+ Pages — Neftali Gonzalez Patrick Holland
Nancy Hunt Lisa Li
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Amy Saw
' Children's Room
Division Head — Corinne Fisher
Children's Librarians — Brenda Wettergreen, Rachel Baumgartner, Ashley Waring,
Carol Bender, Kathryn Geoff'rion Scannell
` Library Associate — Mary McIntire
+ Pages — Kathleen Bowe Meaghan F. Kinton
Judy A. Newton Molly O'Donnell
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Nikita Shah
` Custodian — John Davis
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FIRE DEPARTMENT
The Reading Eire Department is responsible for fire suppression, fire prevention, the
emergency medical system and emergency management. The Department is also responsible to
coordinate and apply for all reimbursement for State and Federal disaster declarations. Through
increased training and the purchase of new equipment, we have been able to make improvements to
all areas of the Department in 2008.
The emergency management function identifies hazards to the community, plans are then
developed and tested to create a coordinated response to any type of disaster. As part of our
Regional Emergency Planning Committee, representatives from the Department of Public Works,
Police Department, School Department, Public Health, Fire and the Cedar Glen Housing
Development participated in a large scale functional exercise.
The Reading Fire Department provides emergency medical care at the Advanced Life r
Support level (ALS) of care to sick and injured patients. This is the highest level of pre - hospital
care available, and we are continually expanding this program as the budget permits. This year, we
placed Advanced Life Support equipment on our fire engine that responds out of the West Side Fire
Station.
In 2008, we made significant improvements in our fire apparatus. We placed a new fire
pumping engine and ladder truck in service. This allowed us to replace aging and unreliable fire
apparatus. We also awarded a contract to purchase a second pumping engine, and this will allow us
to retire a second 1986 pumping engine.
Emergency Activity {
In 2008, the Department responded to 4,262 incidents of which 1,969 were requests for
medical assistance, and 2,192 were requests for fire and other emergency responses. We responded �.
to 98 fires that were required to be reported to the State Fire Marshal's Office. Included in these
were 33 residential fires, 19 commercial fires, six vehicle fires and 40 outside fires. The {
Department responded to 1,969 requests for emergency medical treatment and transported 1,030 (.
patients.
Emergency Medical Services
The Department's emergency medical program is coordinated by Firefighter Joseph Lapolla
and Firefighter Scott Myette. We provide an Advanced Life Support Level (ALS) of care to the (:
community, and this allows Reading Firefighters to treat patients with a wide variety of medications {
and sophisticated treatment techniques. This level of care is essential to patients who are
experiencing a medical emergency that is an immediate threat to their lives.
In 2008, the Department responded to 1,969 medical incidents and transported 1,030
patients. Of the patients transported, approximately 66% required Advanced Life Support
treatment. The five highest categories of medical conditions requiring advanced treatment are t
cardiac events, respiratory emergencies, neurological emergencies, unable to ambulate and injury
by trauma.
In 2008, the Department implemented several advancements to improve our ability to C
deliver emergency medical care to the public. In June of 2008, we placed Advanced Life Support {
equipment on the fire engine that responds out of the West Side Fire Station. We provided training
to all paramedics and received State approval to administer Fentanyl for pain management, Zofran
{
{
P262
Fire Department
for nausea, Magnesium Sulfate for asthmatics, and conducted research into selecting medication for
acute cyanide poisoning. Acute cyanide poisoning can occur to victims of structure fires who are
suffering from smoke inhalation.
In April of 2008, Firefighter Scott Dole completed his paramedic training program and
became a licensed Paramedic. He has completed an in -house orientation period and has been
assigned ambulance duty.
Fire Prevention
Lieutenant Paul Jackson is assigned the position of Day Officer. The Day Officer is
responsible to ensure all life safety systems for new construction and renovations are designed and
installed properly. This requires pre - construction meetings, plan review, code research and
continual site visits to ensure proper installation. This year, several larger projects received a code
review and monitoring during construction including 55 Walkers Brook Drive, One General Way,
580 Main Street, 88 and 98 Walkers Brook Drive and 8 Walkers Brook Drive.
For existing buildings, the Day Officer is responsible to ensure that all life safety systems
are maintained properly. Other areas of responsibility include ensuring the safety and code
compliance of flammable and combustible product storage, and coordinating the maintenance of
Department vehicles and equipment.
Lieutenant Paul Jackson has also become involved in school safety initiatives. He is a
member of the NEMLEC (North East Metropolitan Law Enforcement Counsel) Stars Program.
This program is designed to assist school systems to prepare and respond to a wide variety of threats
to the school environment.
SAFE and Community Education
Firefighter John Jenks coordinates the Fire Department's S.A.F.E. Program. This fire safety
education program is delivered in the Reading Public School System, and continues to receive a
high level of support from School Administrators and children. This program is funded by a $4,700
grant provided by the State.
Our SAFE Program features an in -house developed age appropriate curriculum for each
grade level K through 5. Reading Firefighters trained as S.A.F.E educators visit each school
classroom of Kindergarten through Grade 5 to deliver the fire prevention and anti- smoking
message. Firefighters use a new specially designed trailer that is shared by the Metrofire District to
present a very real fire scenario to the students. Using this training aid, the children are taught life
saving skills in a controlled setting that is not possible to duplicate in the classroom. The S.A.F.E.
Trailer is available to the Reading Fire Department and 33 other communities in the greater Boston
area free of charge.
Fire Alarm
r The municipal fire alarm system in Reading is in excellent condition. This is a direct result
of the planning, care and maintenance given to the system by our dedicated Fire Alarm Technicians,
Michael Holmes and Brian Ryan. When appropriate, we are connecting new and remodeled
buildings to the municipal fire alarm system to ensure a rapid response to an incident.
{ P263
Fire Department
Reading Emergency Management Agency
Emergency Management has continued to be active. Housed within Reading's Emergency
Management Agency are two separate functions, Emergency Management and the Local
Emergency Planning Committee. Reading is also part of the North East Homeland Security Region
(NERAC). NERAC is one of the five Massachusetts homeland security regions created by the
Executive Office of Public Safety.
The primary goal for Emergency Management is to identify threats to the community, and to
prepare for all disasters whether natural or manmade, coordinate the response of a wide range of
agencies, and assist in the recovery phase.
A secondary goal is to ensure that the Town of Reading is in compliance with all Federal
and State requirements to enable the community to remain eligible to receive reimbursement for
Federal and State disaster declarations. The Town of Reading is and has always been in full
compliance with all Federal and State requirements. For the Town of Reading, the Fire Chief is the
Emergency Management Director.
Federal and State legislation requires every community in the country to have a Local .,
Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC). The LEPC identifies areas where the population is most
at risk from a hazardous materials release, facilities and transportation routes that contain hazardous
materials and resources that would be used to mitigate an incident. The Fire Department has
developed a Hazardous Materials Emergency Plan to meet both Federal and State statutory planning r
requirements. For the Town of Reading, the Fire Chief is the Local Emergency Planning .,
Committee Chairman.
To pool resources, the Town of Reading has joined with 11 other communities and formed
the Mystic Regional Emergency Planning Committee. In an effort to test our plans and working
relationships, the Town of Reading participated in a Mystic Regional Emergency Planning
Committee functional exercise on Tuesday, May 6, 2008. We had representatives from the
Department of Public Works, Police, Schools, Public Health, Fire and Cedar Glen. The exercise
was designed and facilitated by a consultant that was paid for by our Homeland Security region
(NERAC). At the drill, the participants from Reading were required to develop logistical plans on
how we would transport and shelter approximately 100 people on very short notice.
The Mystic Regional Emergency Planning Committee is designed to facilitate the sharing of
resources in the event of an emergency, and has attained Full Certification Status by the
Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency.
Fire Apparatus
In 2008, we made significant improvements in our fire apparatus. We placed a new fire
pumping engine and ladder truck in service that has allowed us to retire a 1986 pumping engine and
1991 ladder truck that were unreliable. We also awarded a contract to purchase a second pumping
engine, and this will allow us to retire a second 1986 pumping engine. The new apparatus has {
features that will allow us to increase our efficiency at the scene of an emergency, and improve the
service we provide to the community. All new fire apparatus are equipped with the same engines,
transmissions and fire pumps, and we. believe this will improve our ability to service the equipment.
()
P264
Fire Department
Trainin
Our in- service Firefighter training program is organized under a single Training Officer,
Firefighter Scott Dole. Each month, Firefighter Dole develops and delivers an in -depth training
program to each of the four Groups. The program has been designed to improve Firefighter safety,
enhance performance and to unify the four Groups.
Firefighter Scott Dole participated in four days of Rapid Intervention Training (RIT)
conducted at the Boston Fire Academy's training facility in Brighton. The program is a
Massachusetts Firefighting Academy Train the Trainer Program specifically developed for
Metrofire communities.
The program focuses on the following Firefighter survival skills: Self rescue, long lug out,
SCBA emergencies, entanglement, drags and RIT skills including carries, rope assisted search
procedures, ladder rescue, and through the hole in floor rescue. Firefighter Dole has been
aggressively implementing this important training program in Reading.
Firefighter Safety
The Department has purchased new protective clothing for all personnel. The new
protective clothing has several features that enhance the protection and safety offered by the
equipment. We have also improved our fire ground accountability by redesigning and issuing new
accountability tags to all personnel.
The Department received an Assistance to Firefighters Grant to expand our vehicle exhaust
removal system to all reserve fire apparatus for both Fire Stations. Diesel exhaust is a known
carcinogen and this exhaust removal system will significantly improve air quality in the Fire
Stations.
Personnel
Firefighter Brian Ryan was selected as the Reading Firefighter of the year for 2008.
Firefighter Ryan was chosen by a significant majority of the Department, and was recognized for
the many projects he has undertaken and completed over his career in the Reading Fire Department.
He was recognized at the Reading/North Reading Chamber of Commerce Dinner on Wednesday,
April 30, 2008.
Conclusion
Over the last year, we have continued our efforts to make advancements in all areas of the
Department. This has been achieved through higher levels of training for our personnel, the
addition of new technology and equipment and the active pursuit of public safety grants.
The Advanced Life Support Program has been expanded to our fire apparatus, and continues
to provide Reading residents with the highest level of emergency medical care in this area. The
replacement of our aging fleet has increased our efficiency at the scene of emergency and improved
fire apparatus reliability.
I would like to thank all Town Officers, Boards, Departments, members of the Reading Fire
Department, and especially the citizens of Reading for their continued high level of support and
assistance.
Respectfully submitted,
Gregory J. Burns, Chief of Fire Department
P265
READING FIRE DEPARTMENT ROSTER
CHIEF:
Gregory J. Burns
CAPTAINS:
Kenneth N. Campbell
Paul F. Guarino
Philip B. Boisvert
Peter L. Marchetti
LIEUTENANTS:
Paul D. Jackson
David T. Ballou
Richard A. Puopolo
Richard L.S. Nelson
Mark F. Dwyer
FIREFIGHTERS:
Fire Department
Matthew McSheehy
David Gentile
Thomas McCarthy
Daniel Cahoon
Michael Belmonte
Sean Devlin
Michael Holmes
William VanHorn
Scott Myette
David Roy
Lisa Palermo
Bruce Ayer
Robert McCarthy
Michael Wood
Paul Dalton
Patrick Wallace
Scott Dole
Ryan Buckley
Brian Ryan
John Jenks
Joseph Lapolla
Stephen Pelrine
Eric Blackman
-- Daniel Pouliot
Robert Beck
Paul Roy
Paul Darnoeogno
Stephen Murphy
Derek Loftus
Garrett Antanavica
David Robidoux
Dana Ballou
*David Ferreira
Anthony Delsignore
Linda Polcari
*Christopher Germain
Cynthia M. Keenan, Secretary
Resigned position
*Hired to fill vacancy
Fire Department Statistics for 2008:
Permit Fees Collected
$16,146
Ambulance Fees Collected
$625,346
Bell Alarms and Still Al_ arms
2,192
Emergency Ambulance Calls
1,930
Inspections
363
P266
POLICE DEPARTMENT
Mission and Value Statement
The Reading Police Department is committed to providing the highest level of public safety
and service to the citizens and business people within the community. The members of the
Department are empowered to enforce the laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and bylaws
of the Town of Reading to ensure that the peace and tranquility of our neighborhoods are
maintained, and that crime and the fear of crime are reduced. We emphasize and value integrity,
honesty, impartiality and professionalism from our members in order to create an environment that
values differences and fosters fairness and flexibility in our mission. We encourage citizen input
and interaction that will assist us in developing sound partnerships between the community and
police. Working together, we can protect our future and enhance the quality of life for everyone
within the town.
Once again, the Reading Police Department and the community has whole experienced
growth, change and transformation in calendar year 2008. More personnel changes occurred within
the Police Department including a retirement, a promotion, a transfer, a resignation and six new
Police Officers were hired to fill existing openings. This report summarizes the participation,
activities, sponsorships, enhancements, accomplishments, and other notable events of the Reading
Police Department in Calendar year 2008.
Personnel Changes
The following personnel changes and adjustments were experienced by the Police
Department in calendar year 2008:
January 2008
• Officer Michael Nickerson transferred to the Cambridge, MA Police Department.
February 2008
• Recruit Officers Christopher E. Jones, Michel C. Bouvier, and Ryan A. Porter were hired
and began training at the MBTA Police Academy in Quincy.
• Christopher Finnegan was appointed as a full -time Dispatcher in the Communication Center.
• Officer John T. Kyle resigned from the Police Department.
March 2008
• Safety Officer Michael Lee was activated for training with the Army National Guard.
• Officer Matthew Edson was temporarily assigned Safety Officer while Officer Lee was
absent on training.
• Executive Officer Lt. Michael Cloonan was appointed Acting Chief and assumed Chiefs
responsibilities while Chief James W. Cormier attended 10 weeks of training at the Federal
Bureau of Investigation facility in Quantico, VA.
June 2008
■ Executive Officer Lt. Michael Cloonan retired from the Department after 34 years of service
to the Town of Reading.
August 2008
• Officers Christopher E. Jones, Michael C. Bouvier, and Ryan A. Porter graduated from the
i MBTA Police Academy. Officer Jones was awarded the top academic award in the
academy class.
September 2008
• Recruit Officers Justin P. Martel, John C. Edson, and Patrick J. Imperato were hired and
began training at the MBTA Police Academy in Quincy.
P267
Police Department
r"
December 2008
• Sgt. Peter C. Garchinsky was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant. Lt. Garchinsky was
assigned as Night Shifl. Patrol Division Commander.
Awards and Recognitions
April 2008
• Sgt. Mark J. O'Brien was honored as the Reading Police Department's Officer of the Year at
the Reading/North Reading Chamber of Commerce dinner.
• The Board of Selectmen recognized the Public Safety Dispatchers during National 911 Tele-
Communicators Week.
May 2008
• The Board of Selectmen recognized National Police Memorial Week.
June 2008
• Chief James W. Cormier graduated from the 10 week FBI National Academy in Quantico,
VA.
September 2008
• Sergeants David Clark and John McKenna began attending a leadership class sponsored
through Suffolk University and Northeastern Massachusetts Law Enforcement Council
(NEMLEC).
Community Policing
The Reading Police Department continues to work closely with the community and other t'
Town Departments, as well as State and Federal Agencies. The Department strongly promotes the
philosophy of "working with the community." The Department sponsors or participates in a
number of community events andlor programs including the following:
• The Police Department continues to be an active member the Reading Coalition Against
Substance Abuse (RCASA). Chief James Cormier was the Secretary of the organization for
2008 and elected Vice President at their annual meeting in September. School Resource
Office Richard Abate is also an active member of the RCASA.
• The Department was able to collaborate with the RCASA to be awarded grant funding that
enables the Department to conduct alcohol compliance checks. The Detective Division has
worked closely with the RCASA to be trained and implement alcohol compliance checks
throughout the community.
• The Department is represented on the Human Relations Advisory Committee (HRAC).
Chief James Cormier. '
• The Rape Aggression Defense (RAD) Program which is a self defense course designed
specifically for women, has been and continues to be a very successful program. Sgt. Clark,
Officer Pasquale Iapicca, Officer Michelle Halloran, Officer Salvi Lavita, Officer Ian
Nelson, Officer Richard Abate, Officer Christine Agnone and Officer Kristen Stasiak. R.
• The Citizens Police Academy has been very popular and will continue to be a base program
for the Department. Lt. David Stamatis.
• In May, during National Police Memorial Week, the Police Department sponsored its annual
Open House and welcomed the community to come and tour the Police Station, see our
equipment and meet our officers. (.
s ,
P268
Police Department
• in June, the Department's Honor Guard as well as Police Officers and their families
participated in the Challenger Softball game where they are afforded an opportunity to
interact with children with special needs in a relaxed and fun atmosphere. The Honor Guard
also participated in the Memorial Day and Veteran's Day celebrations.
• Also in June, the Department participated in Friends and Family Day held at Birch Meadow.
• The Department participates annually in the Libraries' Vehicle Day in August where
children of all ages get to enjoy the vehicles of the community. Officer Collins.
• In collaboration with the Reading Adult Education Office, we were able to sponsor a
parenting workshop that was very successful and received by 25 parents.
• Throughout the year, the Department participated in the Governors' Highway Safety
Bureau's "Click -it or Ticket" Program. Lt. David Starnatis.
• In October, the Department in conjunction with its Labor Unions organized its annual Senior
Ham and Bean Supper at the Senior Center. Officer Collins.
• In December, the Department in conjunction with its Labor Unions organized the 27`x'
Annual Children's Holiday Party at Austin Preparatory School. Again collaborating with the
Free Masons (Reading Lodge) to offer the Child Identification Program (CHIP) providing
over 80 identification kits. Officer Collins.
• The Department's web site www ci readin.ma.us /notice is very successful and offers a
variety of information for the public. Lt. David Stamatis. the Police
• In response to the community's ongoing concerns with traffic enforcement,
Department utilized grant funding to augment specific traffic enforcement efforts throughout
the year.
Detective Division
The Detective Division is the liaison of the Police Department with the Reading Public
Schools as well as the Northeast Regional Vocational School in Wakefield. School Resource
Officer Richard Abate is the Division's primary liaison. He works diligently with all the schools to
ensure the safety of the students and faculty. It is important to point out that at all levels of both the
School Department and the Police Department the degree of cooperation and unity to bring the
absolute best level of services to the community has rarely been better. We applaud the School
Department's commitment to working with the Police Department in order to provide the best
services possible to the community.
Outlined are a number of the Detective Division's activities for 2008.
■ Actively participate in the Criminal Based Justice System - this system brings together
multiple Town agencies with the District Attorney's Office to share information.
■ Member organization of Project Alliance - this is a program sponsored by the District
Attorney's Office that provides educational opportunities for law enforcement, schools and
other professionals in the areas relative to school and juvenile issues.
• Member organization of the Woburn Court Substance Abuse Initiative, linking the seven
communities that fall under the jurisdiction of Woburn District Court to combat the
substance abuse issue in the area. Through this initiative, the Heroin Education Awareness
Task Force (H.E.A.T.) was formed.
• Member of the NEMLEC Detective Group, a regional Detective group incorporating over
40 cities and towns in the region, that freely exchanges information of interest.
t P269
Police Department
• Participating member of the Domestic Abuse Roundtable, a meeting of the District
Attorney's Office and the seven Woburn District Court agencies to exchange and update
information regarding domestic violence.
• Participating member of the Juvenile Fire Setters, educational information regarding
juvenile fire setters.
■ Worked in conjunction with the Reading Coalition Against Substance Abuse to conduct
many alcohol compliance checks of all pouring establishments and liquor stores in Town. (y
Two liquor stores and one restaurant were cited for selling alcohol to a minor and received
suspensions.
• Working highly sensitive, complicated criminal investigations in a small unit requires the {
Officer who works for that unit to have the utmost integrity and to be beyond reproach.
These philosophies are the backbone of the Reading Police Detective Division.
Public Safety Dispatch
The Reading Public Safety Dispatchers provide through communications a lifeline for the
community, Police Officers and Firefighters. Eight full -time Dispatchers and one per diem
Dispatcher are under the direct supervision of the Mead Dispatcher and under the command of the
Day Shift Patrol Division Commander Lt. David Stamatis. Dispatchers receive requests for
information and services, they triage those request based on available resources, and disseminate
those request to the emergency personnel in the field. Dispatchers greet the public entering the
Police Station, and provide a valuable service to our community. Dispatchers recorded 29,211 calls
for service in 2008 and issued 3,673 Community Access Stickers. The Dispatch Corps are the face
of Reading Public Safety, in most cases they are the first interaction the public has with Public
Safety. We are grateful for the professional service provided by the Reading Public Safety
Dispatchers.
During this year, the Communication Center was pleased for his career move but (.
disappointed to lose one of their exceptional Dispatchers, Christopher Jones. Officer Jones was
added to the Reading Police Force as a recruit Officer in February. The Dispatch team is pleased to
add Christopher Finnegan who brings years of Firefighting and EMS - knowledge to the group. Our
Dispatchers who are the first responders on most calls, do an outstanding job and deserve
recognition for a position that is extremely important and when done well is often overlooked.
Crossing Guards
The School Crossing Guards are part-time civilian personnel. Currently, there are 18
permanent Crossing Guards and four spares who fill in when a regular Crossing Guard is unable to l
cover their post. They are under the direct supervision, coordination and control of Safety Officer ('
Michael Lee. Each Crossing Guard plays an essential role in ensuring the safe commute of children
to and from school. They also serve as an extra set of eyes and ears for the Police Department and
the community as well. These Crossing Guards have proven to be devoted to their duties and are a
great asset to the Town of Reading.
Animal Control
The Animal Control Officer is Ronald Burns and he works 13 hours per week and is on call
for emergency situations. There were more than 500 calls for service received by the Animal C
Control Officer. There were five dog bites over the year resulting in injuries to humans. There
were 13 bites over the year resulting from animal of unknown origin to two dogs and 11 cats.
P270
Police Department
Those that tested negative, for rabies were quarantined for 10 days. There were seven cat bites to
humans reported. There were 10 bat bites, three to humans, two to dogs and five to cats. There were
over 30 coyote sightings and cat missing calls reported. Over 250 fines and citations were issued to
residents for failure to keep their dog on a leash, failure to license their dog, and for biting. A
majority of the calls were received for neighbors complaining about other dogs.
The Animal Control Officer is authorized to isolate and confine domestic animals suspected
of being exposed to rabies. Acting according to state regulations and guidelines, Animal Control
Officers must:
■ Investigate reports of domestic animals exposed to rabies.
■ Determine if the domestic animal has or may have been exposed to a rabid animal, and if the
domestic animal has been properly vaccinated.
Make an evaluation of the exposure of the vaccinated animal and prescribe the appropriate
action according to State regulations.
• Obtain permission to euthanasia exposed, unvaccinated animals from their owners or from
the MDFA.
■ Carry out euthanasia permitted by the owner of MDFA.
■ Collect the head of the euthanized animal and deliver or send it to MDPH State Laboratory
Institute, if the animal has bitten or otherwise exposed a human or domestic animal.
■ Ensure that vaccinate domestic animals receive a booster vaccination if needed, and that the
animal remains under appropriate strict confinement or isolation. Contact local officials
when exposed domestic animals have exposed humans.
Parking Enforcementt Officer
The Parking Enforcement Officer is Ronald Burns who works 18 hours per week. The major
responsibilities of the Parking Enforcement Officer are:
■ Identify and cite motorists who violate Reading's parking regulations and reduce
opportunities for violations to be committed through preventive patrols of all parking areas.
• Tally and inventory tickets daily.
• Identify parking problem areas within the town and forward this information to the Safety
Officer.
■ Perform related duties as required.
• Over the year a new set of parking regulations were implemented.
■ Total citations issued by the Parking Enforcement Officer in 2008 are 1,992.
• Total income from parking citations is $51,830.00
• 85% of the citations were paid
■ 8% of the citations were marked for non - payment.
The following is a statistical analysis of our enforcement efforts and a record of revenues
generated by our department for calendar year 2008.
Service Statistics Calendar Yea_ r 2008:
Arrests
172
Protective Custody
42
Motor Vehicle Citations
5904
Parking Violations
2456
Detective Criminal Investigations
171
Automobile Crashes Investigated
560
P271
DETECTIVE DIVISION:
Detectives: Michael D. Saunders Derek Holmes
School Resource Officer: Richard P. Abate
SUPPORT SERVICES:
Community Service Officer: James P. Collins
Safety Officer: Michael R. Lee
Armorer: Christopher Picco
PATROL OFFICERS:
Christine Agnone
Joseph Belmonte _
t
Kevin M. Brown Jr.
Police Department
Erik Drauschke
Fees Collected Calendar Year 2008:
Michael P. Fitzgerald...
Michelle E. Halloran
License to Carry Permits
$ 2,925.00
<.
Firearm Identification Cards
$ 662.50
It
Police Reports Copied
$ 2,080.50
David Savio
Parking Fines
$70,195.00
Sean M. Wilson
Administrative Fees for details
$27,721.07
Community Access Stickers
$84,016.00
Parking Space Rentals
$32,420.00
Civil Motor Vehicle Infractions
$58,465.55
Community Room Rental fee
$ 1,010.00
Motor Vehicle Lease Surcharge
$ 2,167.80
POLICE DEPARTMENT 2008 ROSTER
`
CHIEF:
James W. Cormier
LIEUTENANTS:
Executive Officer Michael P. Cloonan (Retired
June 2008)
(,
Lt. David M. Stamatis
Lt.- Detective Richard W. Robbins
Lt. Peter C. Garchinsky (December 2008)
SERGEANTS:
Bruce F. Russell Mark J. O'Brien Francis G. Duclos
John T. McKenna David J. Clark Sgt. - Detective Mark Segalla
DETECTIVE DIVISION:
Detectives: Michael D. Saunders Derek Holmes
School Resource Officer: Richard P. Abate
SUPPORT SERVICES:
Community Service Officer: James P. Collins
Safety Officer: Michael R. Lee
Armorer: Christopher Picco
PATROL OFFICERS:
Christine Agnone
Joseph Belmonte _
Michael C. Bouvier
Kevin M. Brown Jr.
Anthony F. Caturello
Erik Drauschke
Matthew C. Edson
Michael P. Fitzgerald...
Michelle E. Halloran
Keith D. Hurle
Pasquale Ia icca
Christo her E. Jones
Salvi Lavita
Robert MacHug4 Jr.
Ian A. Nelson
Ran A. Porter
Core Santask
David Savio
Kristen Stasiak
1 Christopher Voe elfin
Sean M. Wilson
P272
Police Department
POLICE DEPART'MENT ANCILLARY PERSONNEL
BUSINESS ADMINISTRATOR:
Andrew Scribner- MacLean
CLE
Administrative Assistant Victoria Cummings
Principal Clerk Joanne Power
DISPATCHERS:
Head Dispatcher Victoria Avery
Christopher Finnegan Regina Saunders Joseph Pagnotta
John Rawcliffe Ryan Mahoney Matthew Vatcher
Debra Haynes Susan Tapley
SCHOOL CROSSING GUARDS:'
Cindy Asci
Mildred Barton
Doug Cowell
Robert DeWolfe
Arthur Dickinson
Fred Dyment
Karen Fillmore
Ernie Gisetto
Gerry Intonti
Lucy Intonti
Tina Lantz
Marsha Leighton
Joseph Lo iccola
LuAnn MacKinnon
Kris McNeil
Dick Prudente
Allen Sletterlink
Pat Tilton
SPARE SCHOOL CROSSING GUARDS:
Peg Faulkner Joe Veno
George Snow Rosemary Violante
ANIMAL CONTROL OFFICER/PARKING ENTORCEMENT OFFICER:
Ronald Bums
Conclusion:
To summarize our Mission Statement, we are empowered to enforce the laws of our land,
but in order to do this appropriately and adequately we have to work with the community.
Providing the community with the highest level of police service is a goal that will require
dedication, hard work and a strong commitment to and from our community.
The year 2008 presented many unique and difficult challenges for the police department.
We experienced significant personnel changes and adjustments and operated understaffed due to
retirements, injury and illness. Moving forward the department is anxious to continue working
closely with our fellow town employees and the citizenry, to provide the highest quality of life in
Reading.
I want to thank the citizens of our community for their support and cooperation. Working
with the community your police department will accomplish its mission.
Respectfully submitted,
James W. Cormier, Chief of Police
P273
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS
DIRECTOR'S REPORT t
Department personnel were actively involved as members or liaisons of many Boards and
Committees. We have also assisted other Departments throughout the year on many projects and
programs, and have been fortunate to have the cooperation and support of the Town Manager,
Assistant Town Manager, and other Departments within the Town. As highlighted in the DPW
Division reports, the Department had an extremely busy year in 2008 with our many projects,
ongoing maintenance work and assisting other departments. It is important to note that all of these
projects require a tremendous group effort to accomplish. It is a credit to the staff that these quality {
projects were completed in a timely and cost - effective manner while performing their "regular" and
important every day work.
As this will be my last report, I would like to thank the members of the Department of
Public Works. The work you do represents what we are as a Department. The hard work,
dedication and pride is evident in the excellent service and programs you provide and projects you
complete. What you do, whether you're in the field, providing support services or designing and
inspecting projects is important, and affects the daily lives of the residents and visitors in the �.
community. I am extremely proud of the Department of Public Works and will be forever grateful {
for the support you have given to me. Thank you.
l
Respectfully submitted,
Edward D. McIntire, Jr.
Director of Public Works
i
ADMINISTRATION DIVISION
The Administration Division supported the Department with procurement administration,
water and sewer billing, budget preparation and coordination, departmental personnel and payroll
services, accounts payable processing, cemetery administration services and responses to public
inquiries and concerns over all Public Works areas of responsibility.
Significant projects included: l
• Procurement and project support for various water and sewer main projects, including sewer
system rehabilitation and construction and water main construction.
• Water Meter Installation bid awarded to Troupe Water Services. Anticipated meters
changed for FY 2009 is 1091 meters.
• 2008 was the third of a five (S) year contract for our Town -wide refuse collection and
curbside recycling.
• We are in our third and final year of our three -year Water Meter and Transponder
Replacement Program.
• Coordination of cooperative household hazardous Waste Day collection events with the
Town of Wakefield.
• Providing procurement assistance to other Town Departments and Divisions including
contracts for GIS Base Map Development, a Comprehensive Parking Program, and various
pieces of surplus equipment.
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Public Works Department
• Overall facilitation of the Water Conservation Rebate Program: Appointment scheduling,
rebate processing and tracking of high - efficiency washing machines, low -flow toilets, and
irrigation system rain sensors and rain barrels.
• Coordination of the Street Sign Lottery — a unique opportunity to sponsor, purchase or take a
chance on a piece of Reading memorabilia.
• Increased recycling efforts have resulted in additional condominium and school groups
joining the program.
Emphasis continued on providing public information, responding to inquiries and concerns,
and improving all areas of public communications.
CEMETERY DIVISION
To the Board of Cemetery Trustees:
The following is from office records for calendar year 2008:
Interments — 117 Interments for all years — 14,002
Markers set — 37 Foundations — 30 Monuments re -set —20
Sale of Lots
Forest Glen — 6 lots — Total for all years — 2051 lots, 798 single graves
Charles Lawn -- 10 lots, 4 single and veteran's graves — Total for all years -- 479 lots,
239 single and veterans' graves
Wood End — 20 lots and 1 single grave — Total for all years — 325 lots, 25 single graves
Cooperation from other Public Works Divisions was outstanding and much appreciated.
The Board of Cemetery Trustees has been very supportive of all the numerous programs and goals
of this Division. I thank them for all their assistance.
t, Respectfully submitted,
Robert L. Keating, Supervisor
CUSTODIAN OF SOLDIERS' AND SAILORS' GRAVES — Calendar year 2008
E
Interments: WWII —16 Korea — 2 Vietnam — 0 Peacetime - 4
Total of all veterans' interred — 1688
As has been the custom for many years, all veterans' graves were decorated with a flag and
a potted flower for Memorial Day.
Respectfully submitted,
Frank Driscoll, Custodian of Soldiers' and Sailors' Graves.
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Public Works Department
ENGINEERING DIVISION
The Engineering Division provides engineering services to all Departments within the Town
of Reading. The Division is responsible for preparation of plans, specifications, estimates, survey
layout, inspection and supervision of Town construction projects; review of subdivision plans and
site plans for accuracy and conformance with the subdivision rules and regulations; review of
conservation submittals, preparation of subdivision and conservation bond estimates, inspection of (.
subdivision construction and the administration of the Pavement Management Program and Chapter
90 Roadway Improvement Program. The Division also provides technical assistance and guidance ,
on various Town projects, performs traffic studies, regulates and inspects private construction `
activities within Town roadways and is responsible for the maintenance of all records concerning
the subdivision of land, roadway, water, sewer and drainage construction, Town maps and the t
issuance of various permits.
During the year, the Division designed, prepared contract documents and provided
construction management on construction projects for the sewer main replacement on Glen Road,
roadway reconstruction of Colburn Road, Fairview Avenue, Sunnyside Avenue, High Street
(Middlesex Avenue to Lowell Street), Hillside Road, Waverly Road (Hillside Road to Ridge Road)
and Franklin Street (Main Street to Blueberry), sidewalk and granite curbing installation on Birch
Meadow Drive (from the Birch Meadow School access drive to Arthur B. Lord) and Frank B
Tanner Drive.
Additional projects accomplished include the construction management of the Bancroft t,
Avenue Tennis Court replacement, Parker Middle School Artificial Turf installation and the Main `
Street Alleyway improvement project; design and construction layout of Colburn Road drainage, �.
Border Road drainage and roadway improvements, restoration of the Temple Street drainage swale
and Arnold Avenue drainage outlet, and in the design, layout and construction management of the '.
roadway, sidewalk and curb improvements on Gould Street (Haven Street to Ash Street).
Topographical surveys and designs were also completed for the Ash Street roadway
improvements (Green Street to Washington Street), Franklin Street and Main Street intersection
improvements, Washington Street and Prescott Street intersection improvements, 1481 Main Street
pathway and viewing stand, Birch Meadow field complex, Water Treatment Plant site re- grading
and the Memorial Field improvements.
Contract documents were developed for the Town Common flag pole replacement, loam and
seed construction projects and annual traffic markings. Traffic studies were performed on
Washington Street, Salem Street, Lowell Street, Sanborn Street, Linden Street, John Street, and at
the Bancroft Avenue and Hartshorn Street intersection. Also assisted in the preparation of the RFP
and in the review of submittals for the aerial and photography update to the Town's GIS.
Construction on the Main Street Downtown Roadway Improvement Project started this
Spring. The project is approximately 65% complete with the majority of the roadway, curbing,
sidewalk, brick accents and street lighting installed. The traffic dummy at the intersection of Main,
Pleasant and Lowell Street was permanently removed in November. Completion of the project is
expected mid -2009.
The 25% design public hearing for the West Street Roadway Improvement Project was held
on January 30, 2008. The Town's consultant completed and submitted the 75% design plans to
Mass. Highway Department for review in October.
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Public Works Department
During the year, the Division worked with property owners to remove three additional illicit
connections from the sewer system under the House to House Illicit Connection Inspection
Program. To date, 65 connections have been removed from the sewer system. Working with our
consultant, the sewer system was analyzed for excessive flows under Phase 5 of the MWRA I/I
Local Assistance Program. The results of this analysis identifies excessive 1/I areas, and will enable
a cost effective approach to future work and expenditures under the UI Removal Program.
The final NPDES Phase II Storm Water Annual Compliance Report under the current permit
was submitted to the Environmental Protection Agency. The new permit, when adopted by the
Environmental Protection Agency, will require more stringent requirements to be met by the Town.
The Division spent significant time on the inspections of utility installations and repairs, dig
safe mark outs and in the site inspection of private development projects including Longhorn Steak
House /Bertucci's Italian Restaurant on Walkers Brook Drive, One General Way, 89 Walkers Brook
Drive, 8 Walkers Brook Drive, and the Benjamin Lane, Sailor Tom's Way and Kylie Drive
subdivisions.
The Division issued permits and performed construction inspection for 29 new sewer
connections, 13 permits for the disconnection, repair or reuse of existing sewer connections, 77
street opening permits to National Grid for repairs and new gas services and 36 street
opening/occupancy permits within Town right -of -ways. The Division also held seven Public
Hearings for utility installations or relocations and witnessed 15 soil evaluations.
HIGHWAY AND EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE DIVISION
The Highway Division of the Public Works facility consists of 17 employees, four are
Mechanics, one is a Dispatcher, and the 12 that are left maintain the infrastructure of the Town of
Reading.
HIGHWAY DIVISION
The regular projects such as street sweeping, catch basin repair (44), roadside cutting, sidewalk and
street maintenance, tree lawn repair, mixing and sifting loam and compost, traffic control and cleaning of
catch basins and ditches continued by priority and need. Street sweeping was started on March 24, 2008
and finished on May 5, 2008.
Miscellaneous
The Division placed and filled planters for the Adopt -An- Island Program, placed mosquito control
tablets in the catch basins and detention areas for the Health Department, held Hazardous Waste Day, had
Adopt -A- Family in November and December, Equipment Day at the Library and Town Day, picked up
appliances once a month, did Christmas on the Common and set up for the Halloween Parade.
Vehicle Maintenance
The Division repaired and serviced the equipment from Police, Fire, School, Building Maintenance,
Council on' Aging and Public Works Departments, continued to take waste oil from the public during the
week and on Saturdays, and did emergency in the field repairs as needed.
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Public Works Department
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Snow and Ice
During the Winter season of 2007 -2008, the Division plowed eight storms and sanded 28 times.
Special Projects
• Installed drain line and catch basins on Border Road then paved that section of road.
• Replaced drain line on Libby Avenue, and dug the ditch at Temple Street.
• Skim coated Henzie Street, Woodbine Street and a section of Colonial Drive.
• Installed the book drop collection receptacles at the Library.
• Dug out and prepped the alleyway for the Square Project, and dug out, re- graded and
paved a section of Scotland Road.
• Paved all of Tannerville parking lot, and installed drain line on Lisa Lane.
TOWN FOREST COMMITTEE
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This year saw an increase in the activity in the forest:
• A scouting group gave of their time and talent to extend the boardwalk in the forest.
• Public Works performed roadside brush clearing and road maintenance.
The Committee is working and meeting with the Adopt -A -Trail Committee to establish trails in the
forest.
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The Committee wants to thank the Department of Public Works, the Reading Fire and Police
Departments, the Conservation Commission and the citizens of Reading for their support.
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Respectfully submitted,
!
George B. Perry II, Chairman
Louis Debrigard, Jr., Vice Chairman
!
Thomas W. Connery
Joan Hoyt
Patrice Todisco
FORESTRY -TREE WARDEN'S REPORT
Eighty hazardous trees were removed. These trees were dead or in a dangerous condition as
to be a threat to public safety. Sixty -five hazardous tree stumps were removed from the tree lawns,
parks, schools and playgrounds for public safety. One hundred and thirty -three trees were trimmed.
Dead wood and low branches were removed from the public trees as requested or observed. Forty-
{
nine trees were planted. The varieties included Columnar Maples, Zelcova, Sweet Gum, Gingko,
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Linden and Elms. Trees were planted in subdivisions and as street trees.
The Compost Center on Strout Avenue continues to accept brush and leaves from residents.
46,165 cars entered the Compost Center in 2008. Residents are required to purchase stickers for use
{
of the Compost Center.
The holiday lighting put up by the tree crew in the Town Square was once again very
successful. There were 20,000 colored bulbs installed on the Common.
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Public Works Department
The Town of Reading was awarded "Tree City, USA" for the 23rd consecutive year by the
National Arbor Day Foundation. Five hundred Colorado Spruce trees were purchased and
distributed to all the fifth graders. Thanks to the Reading Rotary Club who have sponsored and
assisted in this program to make "Arbor Day 2008" a success in Reading.
A special thanks to all the Committees and Commissions working toward the preservation of
Reading's public shade trees.
PARKS DIVISION
The Parks Division continues to maintain 80 acres of grassed area throughout the Town, and
also the facilities within the parks and schools. This includes the renovation as well as continued
maintenance of all the ball fields on school or parks grounds. The Division maintains 16 tennis and
basketball courts, the tot lots and the skating rinks, and maintains the grounds for all municipal as
well as school buildings.
The Division assists all Town Departments, Committees and Commissions with tree
maintenance, snow and ice removal and Election set -up.
Respectfully submitted,
Robert L. Keating, Supervisor -Tree Warden
WATER DISTRIBUTION DIVISION
A total of 21 new water services were installed, the Water Division replaced 22 old water
services, repaired 17 water service leaks, repaired 10 broken water mains, replaced seven old fire
hydrants, repaired 9 broken fire hydrants, rebuilt 27 fire hydrants, a total of approximately 1,870' of
new water mains and five new fire hydrants were added to the distribution system, disconnected 11
water services for house demolition, replaced two water main gate valves, replaced 15 old water
services from the water main to the sidewalk shut off for Chapter 90 road reconstruction, inspected
the installation of water mains at #98 Walkers. Brook Drive, #1349 Main Street, # 612 Main Street,
Sailor Tom's Way, installed bypass valves and vault at the MWRA control vault, cleaned all well
lines in well field, performed full inspection of the Bear Hill standpipe, continued cross connection
control program, performed hydrant flow tests for #1349 Main Street, #55 Hopkins Street, # 55
Walkers Brook Drive, #75 Pleasant Street and Addison - Wesley projects, flushed water mains in
southern section of town in the spring and the northern section of town in the Fall, all drinking
fountains and town irrigation systems turned on in Spring and turned off and winterized in Fall, two
seasonal laborers painted and lubricated hydrants over 1/4 of Town, completed annual water
inventory, loam and seed on all water jobs, hot topped water and sewer trenches, checked and
maintained two water booster stations daily, cleaned and maintained the grounds, cutting grass, etc.
at the Auburn Street tank site, lowered and raised water gate boxes for construction jobs, conducted
a leak detection survey, assisted Highway Division during snow plowing operations, removed snow
from business district, churches and schools, shoveled snow from fire hydrants. The Town's Water
Conservation Program awarded rebates for 275 energy efficient washing machines, 53 water saving
toilets and sold 145 rain barrels. The Water Distribution Division has completed a distribution
system layer for the Town's GIS system.
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Public Works Department
Meter Room
The regular quarterly water meter reading cycle was supported, 574 work orders were
received and completed, 223 bill to date readings were taken, 10 meters were removed,
approximately 692 new outside radio units were installed, two meters were reset, 56 meters tested
correct, one meter tested incorrectly, and 3,427 old meters were replaced with new water meters. `
SEWER DISTRIBUTION DIVISION
Approximately 31,000' of sewer mains were cleaned and T.V. inspected, 40 sewer manholes
were sealed and lined, 3,002 sewer main joints were tested and 1,133 sewer main joints were
sealed, replaced eight sewer manhole frames and covers, cleaned wet wells at all sewer stations,
checked and maintained 12 sewer stations daily, cleaned approximately 1/4 of the sanitary sewer
main system, cleaned and maintained the grounds, cutting grass, trimmed bushes etc., around the
sewer stations, completed work orders re: leaks, broken gates etc., exercised emergency generator
weekly, completed the annual sewer inventory. Assisted Highway Division during snow plowing
operations, removed snow from business district, churches and schools, shoveled snow from fire
hydrants. The Sewer Distribution Division has completed a collection system layer for the Town's
GIS system.
WATER SUPPLY DIVISION
General
The Town received a check in the amount of $695,246.51 for a settlement with many of
America's leading oil companies as a result of the detection of the gasoline additive Methyl Tertiary
Butyl Ether (MtBE) in their public water supply.
The contract for construction services for the deconstruction of the Water Treatment Plant
and construction of the emergency water supply was awarded to S E A Consultants, Inc. of
Cambridge, MA in the amount of $91,400.00.
The contract for the deconstruction of the Water Treatment Plant and construction of the
emergency water supply was awarded to McConnell Enterprises, Inc. of Essex, MA in the amount
of $1,164,000.00.
The DPW Water Conservation Program continued with great success. In 2008, there were
over $69,920 in rebates to residents and over $290,000 since the program's inception. The program
incorporates emphasis on rebates for low flow washing machines, toilets, irrigation system rain
sensors, and rain barrels, along with free home and irrigation system water use audits and reports {'
and home water saving devices for residents available at the DPW Office at no additional charge.
The programs school educational phase continued with Meg Tabasco, Education Coordinator for
the MWRA, making presentations to all third grade classes in Town focusing on water supply and
conservation.
The Town, with its consulting engineers, Weston & Sampson, entered into negotiations on
the litigation against AGFA Corporation for a possible settlement on the low levels of chlorinated
volatile organic contaminants found in the Revay Well, which have been attributed to the AGFA
facility on Industrial Way in Wilmington.
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Public Works Department
As required by the August 6, 2006 Administrative Consent Order (ACO), the Town entered
into, with (DEP), the Town continued to retain ownership and control of the Zone I (400' radius)
and protection of the Zone II (well recharge area) of the emergency water supply wells and wellfeld.
As a condition of the DEP ACO, the water supply wells and wellfield were maintained as an
emergency water supply to pump water to the distribution system with disinfection capabilities.
5uauly:
A total of 653.1 million gallons of water was purchased from the MWRA and delivered to
the distribution system in 2008.
The highest single days' consumption was 2.59 million gallons on September 2, 2008. The
highest weeks' consumption was for the period June 9, 2008 to June 15, 2008 an amount of 17.25
million gallons, and the highest month was June with an amount of 62.43 million gallons.
Average daily usage for 2008 was 1.78 million gallons, and the average daily per capita use
(use by each individual) for 2008 was 51 gallons per person per day.
The MWRA mailed the 10th annual drinking water report to all customers in June.
Construction and installation of the control valve, by -pass valve, piping, and related
Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition systems to automatically control drinking water flow
from the MWRA into the distribution system and storage tanks at Border Road was completed.
The Town received Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) approval for the
reduction of lead and copper rule compliance monitoring from 60 lead and copper samples every 6
months to 30 lead and copper samples once per calendar year.
Under the United States Environmental Protection Agency, Final Disinfection By- Products
Rule, the Town qualified and received approval for the Initial Distribution Site Evaluation 40/30
certification. The term 40/30 refers to all compliance samples less than or equal to 0.40 milligrams
per liter (mg/1) for total trihalomethanes (TTHM) and 0.30 mg/l for haloacetic acids (HAA5). After
conducting 8 consecutive quarters of monitoring, disinfection - byproducts, TTHM's and HAA5's
were consistently below 0.40 milligrams per liter (mg/1) and 0.30 mg/l respectively, and therefore,
the Town was subject to no additional requirements under the rule.
Town began discussions with the MWRA on proposed MWRA water storage tanks located
at the Route 95/28 interchange and redundancy to the Reading water supply system.
2008 Aj RA Water Purchased
Month
Million Gallons
p, ays
Average Day
January
48.91
31
1.58
February
43.88
29
1.51
March
48.01
31
1.55
April
48.57
30
1.62
May
57.52
31
1.86
June
62.43
30
2.08
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July
59.61
31
1.92
August
56.26
31
1.81
September
62.15
30
2.07
October
57.10
31
1.84
November
55.01
30
1.83
December
53.61
31
1.73
TOTAL
653.06
366
1.78
2008 Rainfall Records
http: / /www. muss. guv/dcrlwaterSuppl v/ruinfail/
Month
Precipitation
Measured
in Inches
Accumulated
Measured Total
Precipitation
DCR Posted Normal
Precipitation
January
2.49
2.49
3.62
February
8.17
10.66
3.21
March
5.27
15.93
4.00
April
4.00
19.93
3.76
May
1.82
21.75
3.57
June
3.82
25.57
3.49
July
7.73
33.30
3.42
August
2.60
35.90
3.56
September
7.98
43.88
3.56
October
1.12
45.00
3.67
November
4.98
49.98
4.02
December
7.05
57.03
3.83
TOTALS
57.03
57.03
43.71
Total precipitation in 2008 as measured at the Water Supply Pump Station was 57.03 ",
which is 13.32" above the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) composite normal for
the northeast region as posted on January 26, 2008. Monthly normal values computed by DCR are
based on averages for the entire period of record for northeast region stations having the longest
period of record and are located in Concord, Lawrence and Waltham.
RECREATION DIVISION
The mission of the Recreation Division is to provide the community with year round
recreational activities. Recreation programs are broad based to meet the recreational needs of all
segments of the population. The Division must continually update and modify its programming to
meet the current needs of the community.
As the community.'s participation and awareness of local recreational programs increase, so
does their expectation of Recreation Division programs. The Division must be ready to anticipate
and adapt to these growing expectations and trends, and continue to look at trends and pop culture
to produce programming that is innovative and exciting.
The Division offers a variety of programs to residents of all ages. A direct programming
emphasis has been placed on Reading Middle School and Elementary School aged youth. The
Recreation Revolving Fund continues to fund all programs for 2008.
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Public Works Department
The Recreation Committee, with nine members and three associate members, provides
guidance and support to the Division which has continued a close working relationship with a non-
profit organization, Friends of Reading Recreation. FORR presented over 30 programs throughout
the year to supplement recreational offerings as well as co- promotes programming with the Division
from time to time.
Projects
Theme were two major recreational projects in 2008.
• Collins Field at Parker Middle School was renovated with a new synthetic turf field. This
field will mainly service the growing Girls' Youth Lacrosse Program, Youth Soccer
Program, Pop Warner Football and RMHS Soccer and Lacrosse teams. The project was
made possible by a State supplemental grant, capital funding and contributions from
Reading Youth Lacrosse, Reading United Soccer and Reading Pop Warner.
• The second major project was the construction of six new tennis courts as part of the
Reading Community Tennis Courts on Bancroft Avenue (High School Tennis Courts).
Unfortunately, in the final phase of the project, it was found that some type of hydraulic
fluid leaked into the surface of the courts during paving. The Town has worked hard to
come up with a viable solution that will guarantee the Town gets what it has paid for. The
courts should be finished by Summer, 2009. These courts were financed through the capital
plan with generous supplemental funding from the Friends of Reading Tennis.
Barrows Elementary School received a facelift in late August, 2008. The new playground
remained in the same footprint as the old, and now features the standard Town equipment, handicap
ramp accessibility and rubberized mulch, and was funded by the capital plan with supplemental
funding from the Barrows PTO.
Programming
Winter /Spring
Reading Recreation held the following programs for the Winter /Spring season:
• Spring Soccer Doctor Clinic
• "Spring Ball" Basketball Clinic with H.S. Basketball Coach Kim Penny
• Reading Baseball School — Pitching and Hitting with Coach Pete Moscari ello
• Spring Tennis Clinics for Youths and Adults
• Challenger Biddy Basketball for Children with Special Needs
• Saturday Morning Sports Series
• Challenger All -Sports
• 2nd'season of the Junior Baseball League
• Kids Just Love Crafts
• Reading Recreation Egg Hunt
• Baby Sitting Course
• Crafts programs for Adults
• Fencing for Youth -Adults
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Public Works Department
Winter /Spring is the lightest season for programming as it is the bridge between very busy
Fall season with the facilitation of Travel Basketball game scheduling and the planning of Summer
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programs. It is also the season where time is allocated to field scheduling for the many youth and
adult sports organizations.
The second season of Junior League Baseball (formerly known as Itty Bitty Baseball)
�.
proved again to be successful with close to 150 participants. This program should continue to grow
each year, and will become a mainstay and intricate part of the Recreation Division's programming
<<
line -up. The Spring season saw many successful programs including the popular Reading Baseball
School which is run by Peter Moscariello. The Egg Hunt was again a huge success with close to
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200 kids on hand at Memorial Park.
;
The Division continues to offer programs such as a Baby Sitting class from the staff of
Winchester Hospital as well as Fencing for all ages. The Division believes that recreation is more
l
than just the typical four major sports and can include enrichment type programs. We continue to
explore other "art" activities and new programs that might be of interest to members of the
community.
Summer
The Summer Camp Program averaged approximately 90% capacity in Summer, 2008. This
was a very strong showing, and can be attributed to the hard work of Program Coordinator Jim
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Sullivan and the Summer Camp staff. Jamie Walsh continued as Camp Director of the 4th w.. 8th
grade participants and staff. Lauren Dodge served as Director for the participants and staff of the
K -3rd grade. This year's Camp staff saw approximately 75% returning staff, and a strong Summer
Camp staff had kids coming back week after week.
The Division added a new element to Camp in 2008. A Lego Robotics Course was designed
`
and run by three local High School students. The course fused the popular building toy Lego with
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an engineering computer program to create robots that could be programmed to stop and turn based
i
on calculations and sensors.
<,
The Division saw strong numbers in many of the sports clinics. Successful clinics and
programs included:
�.
• Challenger Little League Baseball
('
• Volleyball Clinics
• Tiny Tot Soccer
+ Basketball Clinics for Boys and Girls
• Reading Baseball Clinics
�.
• Super Sports (three Sessions)
• Kids Crafts
• Tennis Clinics
+ Track and Field Clinic
The Division had some very successful trips in conjunction with our travel company,
Celebration Tours. The trips for Summer, 2008 included American Girl Place in New York City,
Red Sox vs. the Baltimore Orioles at Camden Yard and a trip to "Cabbage Island." The Division
continues to run these trips through this travel company at a very low profit.
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Public Works Department
The Division had to cancel the Wednesday Night All- Comers Track Meets due to the
RMHS Track being resurfaced after a puddle issue was discovered, and plans to bring back the
Track Meets in Summer, 2009.
One of the great traditions in Reading continued this past Summer with the "Theater on the
Green" and "Touch of Class" Concert Series. "Theater on the Green" had a successful turnout this
Summer each Wednesday afternoon, five concerts highlighted by "Wayne from Maine," a
children's Sing -A -Lang and a great magic show. These concerts are very well attended by
anywhere between 75-125 people each Wednesday. The "Touch of Class" Concerts included
Reading staple "Bob Bachelor's Totem Pole Orchestra," "Overdrive" and Reading's own "Steven
Savio" among the seven concerts. The concert series also featured Beatle Tracks, a cover band for
the Beatles. Between donations that were collected during each of the concerts and sponsorships
from FORK, the Division was able to run these concerts at minimal cost. These concerts take place
at what is believed to be the oldest park in Reading - Memorial Park.
Finally, the Division held its 18th Annual Reading Tennis Open. The Tournament was a
success once again this year with over 100 players participating. All proceeds go back to the
RMHS Tennis Program and new equipment for the Town courts. The tournament was held in
North Reading due to the construction of the Bancroft Avenue, Reading Community Courts. Gregg
Luongo again served as the Recreation Tennis Professional for the sixth year, and did an
outstanding job working with kids and adults and working without the major Tennis Court area.
The Tennis programs were run at Barrows Tennis Courts. Tennis enrollment was consistent with
the numbers of the year before despite the move across town. Many kids enjoyed the clinics so
much, they signed up for more than one week.
Fall/Winter
The: Fall/Winter season for the Recreation Division produced many new programming
opportunities. The Division rolled out a new after school program series. The program offered
elementary age kids opportunities Monday — Friday. After School Baseball and Basketball were a
big hit, and the addition of the Children's Theater Workshop was an instant success. This program
was geared'for kids in Grades 2 -5, and featured a performance at the end of the Disney classic Peter
Pan. Finally, the Division was pleased to bring back Horseback Riding at the FARM in Tewksbury.
This program had run a few years back until the FARM lost its ability to offer the program.
The Division again offered a Jr. /Sr. Volleyball Program for 4th — 8th grade students. The
program had close to 60 participants and went very well in its third year. The program was run by
RMHS Varsity Coach Michelle Hopkinson and several High School volleyball players, and we will
continue to look for ways to enhance this program.
The Division continued to offer a Fencing Program with Olympic Coach Michael Tarascio.
The program was open and populated by students from 3rd grade — adults, and is offered on
Mondays and Fridays allowing student that owned their own equipment to participate on both days.
The Division continued the Fall sections of the Saturday Morning Sports Series. This
program is a compilation of different introductory sports including T -Ball, Soccer and Basketball.
These programs are for four and five year olds, and has continued to be a huge success. The classes
are run by Recreation Program Coordinator Jim Sullivan and student workers from RMHS.
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Public Works Department
Recreation again offered Field Hockey in the Fall. Once again, this program was very
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successful and was run by Christine Gallagher. Other successful programs included Challenger
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Soccer run by Ralph D'Amico and Kids Just Love Crafts.
,
The Travel Basketball Program in 2008 featured close to 200 participants with 17 travel
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teams competing in three different leagues. These teams are selected by coaches with input from
the Recreation staff and the Recreation Committee after a two day competitive tryout. Teams are
!. ,
coached by volunteer parents and Friends of Recreation Division. Supplementing this program is
the rebirth of the middle school In -Town Basketball Program which is an intramural program that
(.
features kids of all ability. The In -Town Program is staffed by various High School students and is
supervised by Lauren Dodge and Rachel Pothier.
The Sunday Basketball Program is open to second grade players through fifth graders.
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Rachel Pothier and Lauren Dodge were hired to be the supervisors of Sunday Basketball, and they
have done an outstanding job showing the ability to handle parent questions, work with kids and
supervise the referees. Ten High School students were hired to work this program which had
approximately 290 participants this year. Sunday Basketball continues to be one of the most
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important programs for the Recreation Division.
The "After School Learn to Ski Program" will be run again this Winter starting in January.
The elementary program had 31 participants. Coolidge and Parker Middle School continue to be
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successful with the Middle School program. The Coolidge side of the program had 26 kids this
year, and the Parker side had 10 kids participate. Considering the downturn in the economy, the Ski
Program numbers were comparable to the previous year. There seems to be a slowing trend in
skiing across the industry, and it no longer is an every week thing for most families.
The Halloween Parade had over 250 participants this year, and was hosted by the Recreation
Division in conjunction with the Friends of Reading Recreation at Coolidge Middle School. This �• '
year's parade featured a performance by the Toe Jam Puppet Band.
Special Needs Programnning
Special Needs programming this year was offered by The Arc of East Middlesex Recreation
in conjunction with the Recreation Division. Programs such as aquatics, social club and social f
dances were offered. The Arc offered successful programs such as Special Olympic training,
bowling, teen groups and social clubs to name a few. The participants are asked at the end of each
session to All out an evaluation form to give feedback. Margaret Veronelli ran. the Challenger Little
League and Bowling Programs this past Summer and Fall, and both programs did very well with �.
participation. The Division continued offering the Special Skates Program which is headed by
Karen Ghirardi at the Burbank Ice Arena. The Division continues to look for other programming
areas to expand into, and also runs continuous sections of Challenger All - Sports. This program is
run by Lynn Mahoney, and is run for free with Ms. Mahoney doing all of the coordination. She
lines up groups each week to volunteer.
Brochure and Advertising
Reading Recreation continues its mailing of Reading Recreation Magazine to every
household in Reading three times a year. The magazine features Adult Education programming in
the back as a flip in the Fall and Winter publications. Participating agencies include Recreation,
Police Department, Fire Department, Library Services, Elder Services, YMCA, Creative Arts,
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Public Works Department
RCASA, Friends of Reading Recreation and various in -town organizations. The magazine also
features interest articles for the community to keep them connected to what's happening around
Town.
Reading Recreation continues to post all of its programming and important information on
www.ci.readinp-.ma.us/recreation. There is information on all current programs as well as upcoming
events, contact information including links to many of the sports organizations websites. The site is
maintained by the Recreation Division Clerk and is updated on a daily /weekly basis.
The Division continues to have success with "Notes from the Reading Recreation Division"
that is placed on Ed -Line to the schools bi- monthly. These flyers have received a positive response
from the community. We will continue with this undertaking as well as continue to send press
releases to our local media outlets.
Personnel
Jim Sullivan begins his third year as Program Coordinator. Jim, in a short period of time,
has become a vital part of the Recreation Division's operation. His leadership and diligence has
helped programs such as Sunday Basketball, Summer Camp and Junior League Baseball prosper,
and he continues to look for new programs and ideas to enhance the Division.
Principal Clerk Barbara Rose joined the Recreation Division in February, 2008, and nine
months later chose to resign her position.
Administration
John Feudo begins his seventh year as Recreation Administrator. John, under the direction
of the Recreation Committee, continues to manage the scheduling of all Town fields and oversee
the everyday operation of the Recreation Division. Permits are issued for every field in Town.
Reading Recreation will continue to work with the local youth and adult sports organizations in
maximizing field space.
Reading Recreation is continuously looking for available land for the development of new
recreational facilities. A comprehensive capital plan has been developed to include tennis courts,
basketball courts and backstop replacement over the next 10 years.
The Recreation Division and the Recreation Committee continue to develop policies that
will increase the effectiveness and efficiency of each Reading Recreation program.
The Recreation Division has been happy to offer the public over 180 recreational programs
throughout the past year. The Division hopes to meet the communities changing recreational needs
while providing them with a combination of safe, fun and educational programs. Suggestions of
new programs are welcomed and encouraged.
Respectfully submitted,
John Feudo, Recreation Administrator
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READING PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Patrick A. Schettini, Jr., J.D.
Superintendent
John Doherty
Assistant Superintendent
Mary DeLai
Director of Human Resources and Finance
School Department
Leadership Change
• Charles Robinson was elected Chair of the Reading School Committee for the 2008 -2009
school year.
• Chris Caruso was elected Vice Chair of the Reading School Committee.
• Douglas Lyons was appointed Principal at the Walter S. Parker Middle School.
• Eric Sprung was appointed Principal at the Birch Meadow Elementary School.
Notable Events
• The Reading Public Schools unveiled the district vision at the Fall "Town Meeting. It is the
vision of the Reading Public Schools to continue fulfilling the promise of our Mission
(below) and, in so doing, to be a model of educational excellence in preparing students for
the 21st Century. Thus, as we go on with our journey of continual improvement and look
forward to the corning years.
• The Reading Public Schools strives to ensure that all students will have common,
challenging, meaningful, learning experiences in the academics, health and wellness, the
arts, community service, co- curricular activities and athletics. We will lead and manage our
school community to reflect the values and culture of the Reading community, and guide
and support our students to develop the appropriate skills, strategies, creativity, and
knowledge necessary to be productive, informed, independent citizens in a global society.
• In 2008, the renovation and additions to Reading Memorial High School (RMHS) were
essentially completed. Although there are punch list items remaining, the High School is in
full use.
• Project Challenge was introduced to High School and Middle School students and parents
with a kick off event for Rachel's Challenge.
• All district staff participates in the second Annual District Sharing Day — Many teachers
presented workshops in all aspects of curriculum.
• The Reading Public Schools is in the third and final year of the Federal American History
grant totaling $998,084 over three years. The district is in partnership with Danvers, North
Reading and Lowell. The district, in partnership with the Reading Police and Fire
Department and the Reading Coalition Against Substance Abuse, secured a grant totaling
$1,500,000 to develop strategies to combat substance abuse in our Town. We also secured a
$100,000 School Safety Grant.
• The Class of 2008 experienced an extraordinary level of success in their efforts to
matriculate into our nation's most academically challenging programs. The following is a
report on their plans:
79.7 % - Four Year Colleges 0.3% - Armed Services
9.7% - Two Year Colleges 2.9% - Undecided
3/7% - Business /Tcehnical/Prep Schools 0.0% - Other
3.9% - Work
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School Department
•
Once again, the Reading Memorial High School students have attained scores that place the
school within the top echelon of all high schools in the Commonwealth. Once again, all of
the seniors in the class of 2008 met the MCAS graduation requirement.
•
Several faculty and staff members were recognized by local and national educational and
professional organizations for outstanding achievement.
•
Coolidge and Parker Middle Schools are NELMS Spotlight Schools and Blue Ribbon
Lighthouse Schools.
•
Barrows Elementary was named as Blue Ribbon Lighthouse School.
•
A group of teachers /administrators traveled to the Blue Ribbon Conference and participated
in several presentations.
•
Virtual High School on -line courses offered to students. Several middle school students
enrolled in Algebra 2.
•
The Parker faculty is in their second year of focusing on Core Values with a two -fold goal
To revise the Core Values that have been in place for some time (honest, integrity and
critical thinking), and practice the Core Values when we do collaborative work.
•
Parker and Coolidge continue to work on a common curriculum to assure that all students at
each school will leave the middle schools having the same understandings and skills.
•
Middle School English Language Arts curriculum has begun a new initiative to address the
needs of all students incorporating a Guided Reading model and the use of Wordly Wise, a
•
vocabulary program.
The district continues to upgrade technology with the addition of SmartBoards and other
forms of technology.
•
Our, students participate in the LEGOS Robotic League competition.
f •
Safe Routes to School Program sponsored by the MA Department of Transportation is
adopted by several schools.
•
Birch Meadow is focusing on school, family and community holding several events
including a pancake breakfast, painting day, arts night and family game night.
•
The Barrows School continues with the "STARS" Program --- Students that Act Responsibly
•
Shine.
Several schools continue Curriculum Initiatives -- Open Circle and Differentiated Instruction
t
with many teachers participating in professional development activities and workshops.
•
The Joshua Eaton Clock Tower Preservation Committee completed its restoration project of
the Clock Tower through a collaborative effort of volunteers, school personnel and
j
maintenance department. With all students watching and cheering, the replica of the original
weathervane was lifted and put in place in the Spring. The turning on of clock lights after
completion of clock faces was another momentous occasion. A formal dedication will take
place in the Fall.
t
•
Killam conducted Mathematics workshops for parents designed to familiarize parents with
•
the program.
Wood, End School continues to focus on character development and positive student
decision through consistent positive reinforcement.
•
The ongoing Killam Pillars of Character program conducted six successful assemblies
during the school year.
r •
The Pupil Services Department continues to work, in conjunction with regular education,. in
the creation of internal programs and supports to assist students access the curriculum, and
on their goal of controlling out of district costs by developing new programs.
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School Department
Reading School Committee
Charles Robinson, Chair
Leadership
There were several changes in leadership of the Reading School Committee. Lisa Gibbs
was re- elected for a three -year term. Karen Janowski defeated Carl McFadden and was elected to a
three -year term.
At the Committee's annual reorganization in June, Charles Robinson was elected Chairman
and Chris Caruso, Vice Chairman. Other members of the committee are Lisa Gibbs, Karen
Janowski, David Michaud and Elaine Webb.
School Construction Projects
In 2008, the renovation and additions to Reading Memorial High School (RMHS) were
essentially completed. Although there are punch list items remaining, the High School is in full use.
Budget
The School Committee engaged in a comprehensive process of establishing the FY 2009
budget. Numerous meetings were conducted to discuss the various priorities, and how the budget
should support the District Improvement Plan. The final budget, while below the initial
recommended budget put forth by the Superintendent, met the guidelines as proposed by the
Finance Committee.
At the Annual Town Meeting that commenced in April, the following School Department
Budget was approved.
Read* Public Schools
Bud et Summar
Fiscal Year 2009
Recommended Bud et
Administration
$860,096
Regular Da
$21,102,301
Special Needs
$8,582,014
Other School Services
$1,454,353
Custodial/Maintenance
3 8'72 406
TOTAL
$35 871,170
Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS)
Reading's statewide prominence in the MCAS rankings continued in 2008 as Reading
placed in the top 20% of all Massachusetts districts in MCAS performance. This represents a
significant accomplishment for a system that continues to spend almost $1,500 below the State
average on per pupil spending. This achievement continues to define Reading as a school system
that always gets more performance for less money.
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School Department
We continue to be a frugal district that sets high expectation, and achieves these goals
through a collaborative effort of the administration, the teachers, the students and the parents. This
is certainly a model to be envied throughout the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. The School
Committee is very proud of our accomplishments in this regard and sees this as the standard for
accountability...high scores, low cost.
Student Enrollment
As students returned to school in September of 2008, it is apparent that with the construction
done our students are staying in the school system. We have seen increases at all levels this year.
Student enrollment in the Fall of 2008 (FY2009) stood at 4,352 students - see chart below.
Reading Public Schools
Student Enrollment FY 2009
Elementary Schools K-5 2,051
Middle Schools 6 — 8 1,044
High School 9 --12 1,220
Special Education *37
Total 4,352
* This is the number of enrollees in our "substantially separate"
Special Education classrooms. Reading students who receive full-
time Special Education services outside of Reading are not counted
in this chart.
Achievements
Reading Memorial High School graduated 308 young men and women in 2008. While
many of our graduating seniors are attending some of the most prestigious universities in the
country, all are moving into the. future with a solid portfolio of skills which will help their success in
any environment they choose. While we naturally point to acceptances at schools like Tufts and
Brown as an indication of our system's success, it is the goal of the School Committee and a better
measure of success that we find appropriate placements for all of our students that will further
prepare them to be productive, contributing citizens of our country.
In addition to the success of our graduates, we can continue to take pride in the success of
our students at all levels. Our athletic programs continue to be one of the best in Massachusetts
with our student athletes demonstrating athleticism, intelligence and, above all, sportsmanship. Our
students take part in a number of Statewide competitions including the Science Olympiad Program,
National History Day, Drama Fest and numerous Band competitions. Our success at all levels is
almost too numerous to repeat but continues to reflect on the efforts of the students, staff and
parents. We are always indebted to those in the community who provide the additional support
when the School Department cannot. It is this support from our PTO's, the Boosters, the Band and
Drama Parents support organizations, the Technology Fund, just to name a few, that provide the
added support and encouragement that fosters a sense community and promotes participation and
success.
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School Department
Reading Memorial High School
Joseph L. Finigan, Principal
For members of the Reading Memorial High School administration, it is very gratifying to
work with our enthusiastic students and dedicated faculty in our incredible facility. We are proud of
our school and its continuing tradition of excellence. In our new building, whether it is the
classrooms designed to match instruction, the impact of state -of -the -art technology, or the finest
performance venues and athletic facilities, our students experience unparalleled opportunities. As
educators, there is no finer work than to be involved in helping students discover and develop their
goals and dreams. Just as these tenets have characterized the traditional strength of RMHS, they
help to define the mission anew as we prepare students for post- secondary education and the jobs
of the 21st Century.
RMHS is not alone in not currently providing students with the skills they need to be
successful in a technologically complex, globally competitive world. As we are in the same !
position as most high schools, we seek to increase the time and attention given to broader skills'
development and learning in areas such as oral communication, information processing, the
application of technology to complex problems, critical thinking, media literacy, (,
creativity /innovation, global awareness, cultural competency, problem - solving,
teamwork/collaboration, self- directed learning, and leadership. In many cases, these skills are
included in the strategies teachers use to address core subjects; however, too often, these skill may
well be neglected.
The goal of the Reading Pubic Schools is "Preparing Reading's Youth to be Productive,
Informed and Independent Citizens in a Global Society." During the past year, many conversations
have occurred considering how to infuse 21st Century Learning into the work of the Reading Public
Schools. Specifically, these conversations have focused upon how RMHS might supplement its
work on standards, assessments, accountability, curriculum and professional and teacher
development so that 21 st Century skills can be infused into the curriculum.
In addition to preparing students for college study and for productive adult lives, we
emphasize student participation in the broader community. Our extensive roster of athletic
opportunities, drama productions, music offerings, club activities and service options promotes a
commitment to others through teamwork and dedication to principle. 'There is a vitality of spirit at
this High School that underpins all that we do, and we value community interest in our school.
The culture at Reading Memorial High School makes it a special place, and it is an
incredibly exciting time to be at RMHS. We are setting the course for a future that, will expand and '
increase the opportunities and resources for our students. ( +
RMHS students continue to achieve above State averages on the MCAS with 100% passing
rate. Our students also scored above the national average on the various SAT tests. Last Spring's '
graduating class, as was expected, distinguished itself with many acceptances at outstanding
colleges and universities. The professional development of RMHS has been focused on the
incorporation of new technology into the instructional and administrative facets of the classroom;
however, other opportunities for teachers supported the district's instructional emphasis in
delivering strong curriculum and creating small learning communities.
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School Department
Stam
There were 10 additions to the RMHS faculty and staff this year. Five of these are faculty
positions which are full -time teaching assignments. One of these appointments is that of a hall -time
School Psychologist. These positions emanated because of retirements from the 2007 -2008 school
year, some were due to staff personnel re- locating to different parts of the country, and others were
created due to previous staff members not being rehired. The newly implemented Retail Bank
Program at RMHS affiliated with the Reading Co- Operative Bank established the role of Bank
Manager.
Listed below are the names of the new faculty and staff members at RMHS 2008 -2009:
Michele Chiappini, Science Jennifer MacDonough, Guidance
Karawan Kouki, Foreign Language Sandra Wheeler, School Psychologist
Brian McVety, English April Goran, Technology Integration Specialist
Michael Springer, Foreign Language Laurel Scippa, Bank Manager
Christopher Thomas, Science Robert Ventura, Computer Technician
It should be stressed that veteran teachers have mentored each new teacher in order to help
the proteges make the transition to RMHS as smooth as possible.
Class of 2008
The Class of 2008 experienced a very successful year in their efforts to matriculate into
some of the most academically challenging programs. Our top students were accepted at many
institutions: of higher learning, including American University, Bates College, Boston College,
Boston University, Bowdoin College, Brown University, Case Western Reserve University, Coiby
College, College of William and Mary, Cornell University, Duke University, Fordham University,
Georgetown University, Hamilton College, Harvard College, James Madison University, Rensselaer
Polytechnic Institute, Rochester Institute of Technology, Skidmore College, Smith College, Tufts
University, University of Virginia, Vassar College, Villanova University, Wellesley College,
Worcester Polytechnic Institute and many others.
308 Students in the Graduating Class
Four Year Colleges
(245)
79.7%
Two Year Colleges
(30)
9.7%
Prep School
(5)
1.6%
Technical School
(6)
1.9%
Work
(12)
3.9%
Undecided
(9)
2.9%
Armed Forces /Service Academy
(1)
0.3%
RMHS School Improvement Initiatives
The process of school improvement is ongoing at RMHS. The following goals have been
identified as areas of focus in the RMHS School Improvement Plan:
• Provide all students with the skills needed for success in post - secondary education and
careers in the 21" Century.
Ensure a rigorous curriculum for all students.
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School Department
• Increase personalization for all students. (�
• Create a school environment in which students and faculty have the power to make
permanent, positive, cultural change at RMHS defined by the school -wide Project t'
Challenge.
Other school improvement initiatives at RMHS are best defined with regard to the New '
England Association of Schools and Colleges. The NEASC is the agency which accredits high
school and colleges. The following is an excerpt from a letter received as a follow -up to the Five -
Year Progress Report which RMHS submitted in June, 2008. The letter highlights the progress
RMHS has achieved in the school improvement process:
"...The Commission on Public Secondary Schools at its September 28 -29, 2008 meeting voted to
accept the Five -Year Progress Report of Reading Memorial High School and to continue the
school's accreditation.
While the report described many positive aspects of the school, the Commission was pleased
to learn of the following:
• The review and revision of the school's Mission and expectations for student learning,
including the development of a draft document which is aligned with the school's adoption
of the 215" Century skills.
• The submission of evidence for each curricular area citing the positive impact of the
school's transition to a standards -based curriculum.
• The curriculum mapping process.
• The establishment of K -12 vertical curricular teams.
• The student portfolio program in the English program.
• The addition of Advanced Placement courses.
• The changes in the course sequence in several departments.
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• The integrated teaching of United States and World History.
• The offering of new courses including Mandarin I and Financial Literacy.
• The completion and implementation of a K -12 media materials selection policy.
• The planning of a formal student advisory program in collaboration with consultants
( ,
scheduled to be implemented in September 2009.
• The completion of the final phase of the school's renovation/construction project resulting in
a facility that fully supports the school's educational programs and services.
• The numerous awards and achievements accomplished by the students in both academic and
on- academic areas.
• The piloting of a Senior Project Program scheduled to be implemented in the 2010 -11
school year.
• The opening of a branch of the Reading Co- Operative Bank which is staffed by high school
students.
• The thoroughness of the report prepared by the professional staff demonstrating the school's
level of commitment to the accreditation process.
Janet Allison, Deputy Director, New England Association of Schools and Colleges
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MCAS Testing
The sophomore class performed exceptionally well on the English Language Arts,
Mathematics and Science (Biology) tests compared with other sophomore students throughout the
Commonwealth. Furthermore, it should be noted that every member of the Class of 2009, the
current senior class, except for one student who transferred to RMHS during the 2008 -2009 school
year and will take the MCAS Mathematics Retest in March, has met the State requirements of
passing the MCAS English Language Arts and Mathematics tests either during his/her sophomore
year, or by means of the MCAS Retest format during his/her junior or senior year.
Certainly, the commitment and dedication of the faculty and staff, the diligent, conscientious
effort on the part of the students, and the high quality of the academic programs both at the high
school and throughout the Reading School District are all factors in assisting the students to surpass
the goals for improvement established by the Massachusetts Department of Education.
RMHS Proud Highlights: Honors and Departmental Achievements
Graduation 2008: Valedictorian, Christopher J. Guenard, Salutatorian, Brian C. Castelluccio
English Department
{ • Offered its first Advanced Placement course, AP Literature and Composition, with a syllabus
t approved through the College Board's audit process.
o Twenty -one students took the AP test (seven students earned the maximum score of
5, and the average score of all RMHS students who took the test was 4).
• Instituted a new writing project across all Grade 12 English classes.
All seniors were required to compose a brief essay in the style and spirit of the national
initiative known as "This I Believe...." "This I Believe..." is a non - profit agency that
invites American citizens to write original essays about the principles they value most.
Writers also submit audio recordings of their essays, the best of which can be accessed
at thisibelieve.org, or heard over the airwaves on a regular segment on National Public
Radio. We look forward to using the program again this year, and exploring the
potential for posting audio - recordings of the essays on the school web.page.
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2008 MCAS Grade 10 Results
Mathematics
English Language Arts
Science (Biology)
State
RMHS
State RMHS
State
RMHS
Advanced
43%
63%
23% 34%
17%
23%
Proficient
29%
25%
51%
53%
28%
60%
Needs Improvement
19%
10%
21% 12%
41 %
t 5%
Failing
9%
31%
4%
2%
14%
2%
RMHS Proud Highlights: Honors and Departmental Achievements
Graduation 2008: Valedictorian, Christopher J. Guenard, Salutatorian, Brian C. Castelluccio
English Department
{ • Offered its first Advanced Placement course, AP Literature and Composition, with a syllabus
t approved through the College Board's audit process.
o Twenty -one students took the AP test (seven students earned the maximum score of
5, and the average score of all RMHS students who took the test was 4).
• Instituted a new writing project across all Grade 12 English classes.
All seniors were required to compose a brief essay in the style and spirit of the national
initiative known as "This I Believe...." "This I Believe..." is a non - profit agency that
invites American citizens to write original essays about the principles they value most.
Writers also submit audio recordings of their essays, the best of which can be accessed
at thisibelieve.org, or heard over the airwaves on a regular segment on National Public
Radio. We look forward to using the program again this year, and exploring the
potential for posting audio - recordings of the essays on the school web.page.
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School Department
Held its Second Annual Poetry Contest in recognition of National Poetry Month. This year,
with the help of media specialist Sharon Burke, all four poems were posted on the RMHS
school website. Also, audio recordings of the winners reading their poems were posted on the
website. These recordings may be accessed at http : / /www.reading.kl2.ma.us /rmhs /, by
following links to the English Department page. This project marks one of our first forays into
using digital media to share student work with the community.
Had two teachers enroll in formal programs of professional development - one aimed at
professional licensure, and the other at -a Master's degree in English
Had two department members make preparations for bringing The Orbit - the student
newspaper of RMHS- to an online platform. The very first online issue of The Orbit appeared
online on October 1, 2008. It was available at http : / /my.hsj.org/ma/reading/rmhs /.
Foreign Language Department
• Increase in course numbers necessitates hiring new Latin teacher.
• New department members:
Full - timers Elizabeth Clerc for French, Mary Christine Dion and Laurie Smith
for Spanish
Part- timers John Nolan for Latin and Bob Donovan in Spanish
• Department members participate in online "Webinar" to hone language lab skills (September
12th).
• French exchange trip with Rouen, France - October.
• Theater: Man of La Mancha in Boston, October.
• Joanne Alvarez, Mary Christine Dion, Laurie Smith and Violeta Archilla attend the MaFLA
Conference in Sturbridge (October 26 -27).
Guidance Department
• National Merit Scholarship Program
o National Merit Semi - Finalists: Kerry Lynch and Kevin Matthews
(They were two of 16,000 (the top 1% of all PSAT - takers in the nation) academically
talented seniors who competed for some 8,200 Merit Scholarship Awards as they
became National Merit Finalists.)
o Commended Students: Brian Castelluccio, Katherine Darveau, Linna Gao,
Christopher Guenard, Dominique Lozzi, Katherine Lucey and Eric Swanson.
(They were seven of 34,000 (the top 5% of all PSAT- takers in the nation) to be so
honored for their strong academic performance in this rigorous competition.)
• College Application Season
Throughout the application season, the Guidance Department processed over 1,700
applications for members of the Class of 2008. They were accepted at over 225
colleges and universities nation -wide.
• SAT Statistics (Mean Scores) for the Class of 2008
Critical Reading Math
Reading Memorial HS 540 567
Massachusetts 514 525
Nation 502 515
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• Advanced Placement Exams (AP)
The RMHS Guidance Department registered and administered 258 Advanced
Placement Exams to 121 students in May, 2008. Ninety -eight students (81 %)
scored a `3" or higher on at least one exam, making them eligible for college credit.
• Annual Cooperative College Fair
On October 29, 2008, the Guidance Department hosted the 25th Annual Cooperative
College Fair which was held at the Shriner's Auditorium in Wilmington, MA. Co-
sponsoring schools include Austin Preparatory School, Our Lady of Nazareth
Academy, North Reading High School, Stoneham High School, Wakefield High
School, Woburn High School, Wilmington High School, Burlington High School,
Melrose High School and Winchester High School. One hundred ninety colleges
attended the Fair to provide information to students and parents. It is estimated that
approximately 2,000 families from all 11 high school communities attended the Fair.
Mathematics Department
• Welcomed back Mrs. Jennifer Grimaldi.
• Added two new teachers: Mr. Henry Skehan and Mrs. John Harrison.
• Implemented new Algebra I Program whereby all freshmen students take Algebra I or
beyond.
• Had students do well on Grade 10 Math MCAS and SAT II again.
• Had students do well on AP Calculus and AP Statistics exams.
o For AP AB Calculus, 34 out of 46 students received a 5.
o All three students who took the BC Calculus got a 5.
• Had Mr. Robert Mooney attend AP Institute in St. Johnsbury, VT.
• Had Mrs. Joanne Fitzpatrick conduct over the Sumner Algebra Boot Camp, an Algebra
review program.
• Will be instituting new curriculum and materials for 232 and 233 Algebra 11. which teachers
wrote over the previous Summer.
• Had Ms. Amy Dyment develop and teach a VHS Algebra II course for middle school
students. (Virtual High School online course)
• Planning to expand opportunities via the Math Team for talented Math students. In addition
to competing in the Continental Math League and New England Math League, we hope to
have a team compete in the Greater Boston Math League (a monthly competition where
students travel to various schools to compete).
Science Department
• Department members served on the Science K- 12 Vertical Team to discuss curriculum at all
grade levels.
o A brochure was created identifying both content and skills covered within the
district.
o Essential Standards were established for high school Biology, Chemistry and Physics
courses.
• Implemented a new Science sequence with all students enrolled in Biology during their
freshman year.
• Offered two new courses: Advanced Placement Biology and CAD I.
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School Department
• Department members continued to develop their technological capabilities, utilizing and
improving
a SmartBoards techniques and training, Edline and GradeQuick usage, CAD software
instruction, and familiarity with Vernier software for laboratory sensor probes (t
• Offered opportunity for students of Advanced Placement, Honors, and College Preparatory
Biology classes to attend City Lab at Boston University Medical School. (Students were able
to perform DNA analysis using techniques such as gel electrophoresis in a laboratory setting.)
• Hired four new staff members. Biology teachers were Ms. Fiona Schuette, Mrs. Gecta Barde
and Mrs. Michele Chiappini, and Chemistry teacher was Mr. Richard Trakimas. t
• Co- sponsored the Young Engineers Club with Teredyne. Mr. Frank Buono, a Chemistry
teacher, served as advisor. The club is an after - school organization which provided students
hands -on experience learning engineering concepts and what a career as an engineer is all
about. Generous funding by Teradyne, Inc., gave students the opportunity to create projects
with a `Thinking Green' theme, serving as a potential topic for future senior projects. They
ended up designing, building and testing their own biodiesel reactor, which turns a restaurant's (,
waste cooking oil into fuel that can be used in any diesel engine). ( Teredyne also provided
mentoring for students with interests in the sciences.)
• Continued to participate in the Science Olympiad competitions as well as the North Suburban
Science League
Social Studies Department
• Had Dr. Jeffrey Ryan receive the New England History Teachers Association Kidger Award ,.
for Excellence in Teaching.
• National History Day — Regionals t
This year's North Shore /Merrimack Valley History Day was held at RMHS. As always,
the students' entries manifested inexhaustible effort, striking creativity and a genuine t
commitment to serious scholarship. All of our students comported themselves with
sportsmanship and class. We are proud of them all. Out of a total of 16 entries, 10
received recognition. They are:
Students: Sarah Hegarty and Isabel Spence
Project: Looking Back: The Religious Conflict and Political Compromise
that was Henry_VIll's Annulment of Catherine of Aragon and His
Marriage to Anne Boleyn (.
Award: Group Performance - Second Place and the National Archives and
Records Administration Award for Best Use of Primary Sources
Student: Jesse Downing
Pro eet: The Revolution of 1688: At the Intersection of the Conflict of the
Monarch and the Compromises of the Masses
Award: Historical Paper - Honorable Mention
Students: Amanda Doodlesack, Caroline Snell and Sarah Stanton
Pro ect: The Little Rock Nine: The Compromise of Integration Sparks (:
Conflict at Central High
Award: Web Page - Second Place
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Students: Megan Benison and Rebecca Crupi
Project: The Witch Hysteria: The Conflict and Compromise of the Salem
Witch Trials
Award: Web Page - The National Archives and Records Administration
Award
Student:
Pro ect:
Award:
Students:
Proiect:
Award:
Students:
Proiect:
Award:
Student:
Pro ect:
Award:
Joanne Baranofsky
The Stonewall Riots: How the Conflict Led to Compromise
Individual Exhibit Board - Second Place
Lauren Almeida, Alex Testa and Gwen Teutsch
Sinclair and the FDA Conflict and Compromise in the Jungle
Group Exhibit Board - First Place and the New England Textile
Museum Special Award
Sarah Mulroy, Lindsay Hetherington and Lisa Richardson
Bloodshed in Beijing The Conflict and jack of Compromise
That Led to the Tiananmen Massacre: June 4, _1989 .
Group Exhibit Board -The National Archives and Records
Administration Award
Meagan Carnes, Naida Colakhodzic and Betsy Kelley
The Molly Maauires• Conflicts in the Coal Mines
Group Exhibit Board - Second Place
Students: Peter Finigan, Sean Hagan and Mike Lopez
Project- A Land Divided: The Conflict and Compromise of the Panama Canal
Award: Group Exhibit Board - Honorable Mention and Merrimack Valley
District Council of the Social Studies Award
Students: Abby and Nathan Tyrell
Proiect: With Liberty and Justice for All: The Conflicted History of the Pledge
' of Allegiance
Award: Group Documentary - First Place
{ Students: Rose Barrett, Alison Oehman and Katie Rumizen
Proiect: Virginia Hasn't Always Been for Lovers: The Conflict: The Conflict
of Lovings v. Virginia
Award: Group Documentary - Honorable Mention
National History Day - State Finals
E The Massachusetts History Day State Finals were held at Clark University in Worcester.
t Students: Sarah Hegarty and Isabel Spence
Project: Looking Back: The Reliptious Conflict and Political Compromise that was
Henry VIII's Annulment of Catherine of Aragon and His Marriaje to Anne
Boleyn
Award: Group Performance - Honorable Mention
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Students: Amanda Doodlesack, Caroline Snell and Sarah Stanton
Proiect: The Little Rock Nine: The Compromise of Integration Sparks Conflict at
Central Higli l
Award: Web Page - Honorable Mention
i
Students: Meagan Carnes, Naida Colakhodzic and Betsy Kelley
Proiect The Molly Maguires: Conflicts in the Coal Mines
Award: Group Exhibit Board - Second Prize
Students: Lauren Almeida, Alex Testa and Gwen Teutsch
Proiect: Sinclair and the FDA: Conflict and Compromise in the Jungle
Award: Group Exhibit Board - First Prize
The Social Studies Department would like to recognize the hard work and accomplishment
of our three other finalists: Joanne Baranofsky, Abby Tyrell and Nathan Tyrell
National competition was held at the University of Maryland in June.
• 4th Annual UMASS Lowell Model United Nations <.
Several Reading High School students participated in the 4th Annual UMASS Lowell Model
United Nations competition. Students engaged in research, writing, debate and diplomacy in
an effort to address present day real world problems. Our students distinguished themselves
as scholars and diplomats. People's Choice Awards were presented to junior Jesse Downing (.,.
representing Denmark on the United Nations Development Programs Committee, and Tom
Nelson representing Russia on the Security Council. Tom also received second place honors
c'
as the delegate from Russia on the Security Council. Freshman Jared Beaulieu, representing
Romania in the Economic and Social Committee, was awarded second place honors for his {
effectiveness in drafting a position paper which passed as a resolution in the Economic and
Social Council Committee.
Fine, Performing and Practical Arts Department (Business, Music, Visual Arts, Drama)
Over the past four years, the separate factions known as the fine, performing and practical
arts have come together to create a united department known as "The Fine, Performing and ,
Practical Arts." Teachers formerly on their own now have a sense of belonging to a cohesive unit t.
geared toward moving the curriculum and students to greater heights and accomplishments in the
21 st Century.
Business
• Nurtured and enhanced the curriculum over the past four years to include current business
and technology concepts and solutions.
• Added a Financial Literacy course. �.
• Developed a retail banking course in cooperation with The Reading Co- Operative Bank and f.
its new bank branch at RMHS. ._.
• Sponsored one business teacher who has taken courses and begun teaching an on -line
business course.
• Supported teaching keyboarding classes on computers, classes that include instruction in
word documents to further enhance all students' computer literacy skills. ( .
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• Displayed student work near the Main Office.
• Had several Business and Technology teachers present course information at Future
Freshman Nights.
Music
• Expanded the music curriculum to include courses in the new mid -lab for music
composition.
• Developed a second jazz band ( "the stage band ") due to student demand.
• Added a second full -time Music teacher to teach voice, chorus and piano.
• Hosted at RMHS the NESBA Marching Band State Finals.
• Mr. Bunten was named the IAJE Northeast District Chairman, and the NESBA Chairman of
the Jazz Division 2007 -2008.
• Added a second chorus which meets Monday evenings on an extra - curricular basis.
• Enjoyed a successful marching band season, winning Gold and Silver medals across the
State.
• Had several students accepted to All- District and All -State events in both vocal and
instrumental categories.
• Produced a successful Winter Concert.2
• Hosted, for the first time, the IAJE - sponsored Northeast District Jazz Festival.
• Produced a successful Jazz Band season, winning Gold medals and individual student
recognition... and yet, another trip to the IAJE State Finals.
• Produced a successful Stage Band season, winning Silver medals and individual student
recognition.
• Supported our Color Guard in forming a "Winter Guard," which began competing in 2006,
was crowned a New England Champion in 2007, and claimed independent status this past
year which allows students from other schools to become members.
• Supported the Winter Guard as hosts of the 2007 -2008 NESBA competition.
• Produced the third annual, district -wide Arts Festival.
• Had several Music teachers present course information at Future Freshman Nights.
Visual Arts
• Completed a four year effort in completely redesigned and reorganized the curriculum.
• Courses have been designated to specific categories: Introductory, Intermediate and
Advanced.
• Added Advanced Placement art courses for the first time (Studio Art and Digital
Photography).
• Sponsors an after - school Art Club which continues to grow, offering after- school art studios
to the general school population.
• Participated in the Globe Show again, and enjoyed the significant increase in the number of
Gold and Silver medals, honorable mentions and Gold medals for portfolio art.
• Supported the hard work of the visual art staff to display student work- throughout the
school building.
• Joined the whole department in producing the third annual, district -wide Arts Festival.
• Art teachers present course information at Future Freshman Nights.
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Drama
• Added drama courses to the curriculum.
`.
• Produced Peter Pan as the Fall musical, selling out the new Performing Arts Center.
• Redesigned the Winter season as a season for dramatic productions.
• Presented: The Grey Zone and Playing for Time, two productions dealing with the
Holocaust.
`
• Used the end of 2008 to plan the production of two more dramas for the 2009 Winter
t
season: The Scarlet Letter and The Laramie Project
t
• Sponsored the Play Writing Workshop (for the third year now) in the evening during the
{,
Winter season. This project was enhanced through participation with the Boston
Playwright's Theatre, Boston University and The North Shore Music Theatre.
t
• Had two students take top honors in the set design category as part of the Massachusetts
High School Drama Guild's Scholarship Awards.
• Produced a student- written play festival.
• Participated again in the Framingham Theatre Exchange.
• Presented the classic Little Women in its Broadway musical form.
• Took the Drama Club again to New York City to see Broadway shows.
{.
• Entered for the third year our Fall musical in the Spotlight Awards, a New England Festival
celebrating the best in high school musicals. Each year, we have been chosen to perform at
the awards ceremony at The North Shore Music Theatre in Beverly. Each year, we have
been nominated for many awards and each year we have won an award.
• Had drama teachers present course information at Future Freshman Nights.
Athletics
t.
2008 Athletic Director of the Year (Massachusetts) - Phil Vaccaro
Winter Season 2008
Dominique Lozzi: (Ice Hockey and Lacrosse) — Boston Globe Scholar Athlete
(,
Dominique Lozzi: (Girls Hockey) Middlesex League Sportsmanship Award, Middlesex League
MVP
Michael Lozzi: (Boys Hockey) Middlesex League Sportsmanship Award, Middlesex League MVP
(,
Globe Scholastics: Boys Hockey — Patrick Kiley, Mike Lozzi, Rob Toczylowski
Girls Hockey — Dominique Lozzi
(-
Basketball — Evan Smotrycz
Track — 4x200 Relay — Tom DiNatale, Steve Comis, Ian O'Shea, Kevin
.
Meleshuk
l
Boston Globe Coach of the Year -- Peter Doherty Boys Hockey
Herald All — Scholastics
Boys Hockey- Patrick Kiley, Mike Lozzi, Rob Toczylowski
Girls Hockey — Dominique Lozzi
Boys Basketball --- Evan Smotrycz
Girls Basketball -- Jackie Lyons
Track — 2x200 Relay — Tom DiNatale, Steve Comis, Ian O'Shea, Kevin Meleshuk
(..
Division I MIAA Sportsmanship Award — Girls Gymnastics
(
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School Department
Spring 2008
Boys Track — Middlesex League Champions, Division 2 State Champions
Hal Croft — Globe Coach of the Year (Boys Outdoor Track)
Girls Track — Middlesex League Champions
Boys Lacrosse — Middlesex League Champions
Charlie Hardy (Boys Lacrosse Coach) — Boston Globe Coach of the Year
Middlesex League Coach of the Year
James Queeney (Lacrosse) — Boston Globe All Scholastic, Herald All Scholastic
All America Lacrosse Team
Jen Abrams (Softball) — Herald All Scholastic
Division I MIAA Softball Team Sportsmanship Award — Softball Team
Fall 2008
Globe All Scholastics
Football -- James Queeney
Soccer — Megan McGoldrick
Swimming — Erica Belcher
Globe Division I Swimmer of the year — Erica Belcher
Herald All Scholastics
Football — James Queeney
Soccer — Megan McGoldrick
Swimming — Erica Belcher
Volleyball — Melissa Sehmiedl
Chronicle Fall Coach of the Year — Lois Margeson (Girls' Swimming)
All New England Girls Soccer Team — Megan McGoldrick
One Other Academic Highlight
The primary measure of success of any high school is the quality of the academic programs.
We take great pride in the curriculum and instruction at Reading Memorial. Yet, with a firm
instructional belief of reaching for continuous improvement, we are in a constant mode of
evaluation so that we can best meet the needs of our students. The following point is simply one
other significant highlight of the year:
• Virtual High School (VHS) is now available to high school students affording them an array of
hundreds of diverse, challenging course offerings. Some of our teachers are a part of this
instruction. (Mr. James Chetwynd has been our on- campus Director.)
Walter S. Parker Middle School
Douglas Lyons, Principal
Introduction
The Walter S. Parker Middle School continually works to improve through a process which
addresses three main areas of need: Curriculum, instruction and assessment, school climate and
shared leadership. Staff, parents, students and community members are working together to build a
school community which focuses on the needs of pre - adolescents and adolescents, educationally,
socially and emotionally.
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Part of this process is to reach out to the Reading community and beyond as we continue the
Parker tradition of being a school which values life -long learning and service to the community.
School Improvement Plan
The School Improvement Plan (SIP) was written by the School Site Council in the Spring of
2008. The plan correlates to the District Improvement Plan (DIP) written in August of 2005 and
revised and updated by the Administrative Council in 2008. The focus areas of the SIP are:
Improving Learning, Teaching and Assessment for All Students; Building Leadership Capacity and
Professional Collaborative Culture; and Creating a School Culture to Support High Achievement.
The goals are:
• To continue to develop and teach lessons /units that engage students and address the learning
needs of all students;
• To continue to train staff in the use of effective teaming/collaboration strategies to support
improved student achievement;
• To communicate effectively with staff, parents, students and the community.
The School Council, comprised of four parents, three teachers and the Principal, meet
regularly to provide the structure and direction for the accomplishment of the goals outlined in the
School Improvement Plan.
Turning Points and National School Reform Faculty
Turning Points 2000 (TP 2000) is a report from the Carnegie Foundation that is a result of i
over 10 years of research done in middle schools on how pre - adolescents and adolescents learn best.
The report has a list of principles and practices that middle schools should adhere to if they are to
address the educational, social and emotional needs of students who are "in the middle" between
elementary school and high school.
Parker Middle School is in its fifth year of membership in the National Turning Points
Network located at the Center for Collaborative Education in Boston. Some of the changes that
resulted from our collaborative work with the CCE include addressing the needs in the areas of
student achievement, student assessment, school climate, classroom culture, communication and
staff development.
In addition, a coach from Salem State College's Graduate School of Education worked with
the whole faculty to implement strategies developed by the National School Reform Faculty
(NSRF) a movement developed at Brown University with Annenberg monies. This coach is
teaching collaborative skills to all faculty through the use of protocols. These structured
conversations help increase skills in the areas of looking at student and teacher work, building
relationships, examining research and data and solving dilemmas. Two of our teacher leaders have
matriculated in a CAGE Program run by the school coach in the area of facilitative leadership. As a
result, these teachers have started two Professional Learning Groups (commonly referred to as
PLC's or CFG's) at the school consisting of 10 teachers in each group and one administrator.
New England League of Middle Schools
As a member of NELMS, the Parker community has had many opportunities to go to
conferences and workshops to increase the knowledge in our building around research pertaining to
middle schools, and teaching and learning.
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School Department
In 2006, Parker became a NELMS Spotlight School. As a result, we have had many visitors
and visiting teams to our school to meet teachers and students to exchange ideas and learn more
about NELMS principles and practices at work here at Parker Middle School. In the Fall, a visiting
team from NELMS came to Parker to assess our growth. A follow -up report from the NELMS
team is due back in February, 2009.
Blue Ribbon Schools of Excellence
In December of 2007, Parker Middle School was awarded the Blue Ribbon Spotlight School
of Excellence. The award is given to schools that have scored in the distinguished category in all
r nine of the BR `Categories for Improvement.' The nine areas are: Student Focus and Support,
! School Organization and Culture, Challenging Standards and Curriculum, Active Teaching and
Learning, Technology Integration, Professional Community, Leadership and Educational Vitality,
r
School, Family and Community Partnerships, Indicators of Success.
Walter S. Parker Middle School Community continues to use the Blue Ribbon categories for
the annual school assessment and improvement process. In addition, we were extremely fortunate
t
to be able to have two teacher leaders attend the Blue Ribbon Annual Conference in Virginia this
year.
Professional Development
There are many opportunities for staff to develop new skills in both new and existing
{ initiatives. Besides the initiatives mentioned above, other areas of opportunity are: Facilitative
leadership, Critical Friends Groups, inquiry Math, classroom discourse, differentiated instruction,
project based learning, engaged learning, data analysis, literacy models, numeracy, Smartboards
technology, blogs, wikis, podcasting, Excel, Inspiration, MassOne, Kurzweil, United Steaming,
health and wellness, pragmatics, alternative assessment, Lab Classrooms, Edline, Gradequick, drug
awareness, curriculum mapping, restraint, safety, Junior Great Books, and John Collins Writing
Program.
The offerings listed above are professional development offerings at the school and district
level. In addition, the district has streamlined professional development to be completed during the
school day when possible, and to follow the cohort model to best utilize and support teachers while
Iearning and incorporating new methodologies into curricula areas.
A focus for us this year has been the development of in -house experts and opportunities for
teachers to teach and learn from one another. We have developed a Professional Development
Model called `Open Space' where teachers during early release time and in- service days attend
sessions or presentations to learn more about a topic they can incorporate into their lessons, or use
to better engage or assess students. The concept of teachers teaching and learning from one another
is invaluable because it allows teachers to make relationships, and continually share and receive
feedback as they work to integrate technology and make changes in their pedagogy.
Proiect Based Learning and Differentiated Instruction with Gerry Goldberg
For the third year in a row, staff members are taking advantage of courses offered through
the district. What teachers learn during these sessions is brought back to the school, implemented in
the classroom, and shared with other teachers.
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Ideas from this course arc used to clarify and differentiate standards so that all students are
challenged at their own level around a particular concept. This work will continue throughout the
year to develop teaching and management strategies to use in classrooms and on teams.
Middle School Curriculum Development (Coolidge and Parker)
District Curriculum Committees continue to meet the first Thursday of every month to map
curriculum, discuss needed changes in curriculum and pedagogy, and to learn and share best
practices. Committees commonly refer to and review State and National standards and current
research, student performance and student needs, to inform decision making and agenda for each
meeting.
In addition, departments from both middle schools have been meeting regularly with
elementary and high school teachers in vertical teams with consultants, to increase their knowledge-
base in pedagogy. Science teachers have been working in several areas including inquiry-based
instruction. The Math Vertical team implemented several new courses including an Algebra 11 VHS
course. The sixth grade English Language Arts teachers and the District Instructional Specialist
have begun a new initiative to address the needs of all students incorporating a Guided Reading
model and the use of vocabulary program.
The Social Studies teachers have been trained in many content areas through the TAH grant.
The eighth grade teachers have begun a new curriculum this year focusing on: world civilizations
from the Fall of the Roman Empire through the Enlightenment. Other departments that meet
regularly to improve curriculum and pedagogy include Math, Art, PE, ELA, Music and Foreign
Language.
The middle school Teacher Share Day was expanded in 2007 -2008 to include the entire
district. This was run as a conference where each teacher attended three workshops each, either as a
presenter or attendee. Workshops included many different areas of interest including technology,
health, reading, math, children's literature, writing and many other subjects. f
Leadership Team and CFG's `
The Parker Instructional Leadership 'Team (ILT) is in its fifth year advising the school in (•,
areas of curriculum, instruction, assessment, professional development and collaborative leadership.
Every working team in the school has a representative on the ILT. Sixteen staff members and the
coach and both Principals are on the team which meets monthly to deepen knowledge of the TP
2000 Principles, plan staff development, and come to consensus on school change. They have ( r
raised questions about current situations or practice, reviewed data to clarify situations and re -frame
questions, and identified problem areas or questions to be investigated. They are currently learning
many protocols for improving relationships, solving dilemmas, looking at student and teacher work.
They then bring this information back to their teams to facilitate sessions on a smaller scale. They
also network with other schools, have difficult conversations with each other about change, do ('
analytical work in the areas of curriculum, instruction and collaborative culture.
The ILT has helped us reach our goal of increasing leadership capacity within the building.
In addition to the ILT, we have a Team Leader for every team and department in the building. An
off -shoot of the ILT are the Critical Friends Groups (or PLC's) facilitated by teacher leaders who
are trained CFG Coaches. The CFG's meet monthly to help one another increase their knowledge `
of educational theory and research, and use protocols to help put what they know into best practices.
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Team Leaders meet monthly, and as needed, to address issues of school and team
management. Students are put into leadership roles by becoming Student council Members, Peer
Leaders and Core Value advisors.
Core Values
We are in our fourth year focusing on our Core Values of Kindness, Community and
Personal Best. The 2008 goal was to create a year -long curriculum that would be implemented
during monthly, school -wide sessions where we could discuss and practice our Core Values as a
community, using lessons designed to teach children the language of conflict resolution and by-
stander strategies. We used the Fall presentation of Rachel's Challenge to expand the Core Values
team to include students and faculty members. Students and Core Value Committee members meet
monthly to `analyze data, make suggestions for speakers and reflect and revise activities as needed.
Special Education and Guidance Procedures and Services
Much work has been done analyzing data pertaining to our Special Education students and
AYP in order to provide the best services possible. After all pullout programs were disbanded,
teachers and assistants used data from MCAS and other standardized and diagnostic tests to address
individual students' needs. Additional classes and electives were scheduled and designed to impact
learning in both Math and reading. Service grids on Individual Education Plans were revised to
r further meet the needs of each student.
All sixth Special Education faculty members met with their counterparts at the elementary
level several times to assure a smooth transition for incoming fifth graders. And finally, a plan was
created and implemented to train educational assistants in Special Education research and strategies,
and the use of technology in the classroom.
The Guidance Program continues to offer the best services available for our students. The
t Student Support Center is in close proximity to the school psychologists, and is staffed with an
Educational Assistant who provides both scheduled and emergency services to students with social,
behavioral and emotional issues. Using an inclusion model for these students has resulted in an
! increased amount of academic accountability. There are also scheduled group sessions for students
with special issues such as recently divorced families, sickness and death and social issues. In
t addition, two part -time interns from Tufts University and the University of Massachusetts assist in
the guidance suite to help students and families.
Technology Plan
A school -wide technology team, led by the school's Technology Integration Specialist and
Librarian, makes key decisions about the purchase and use of technology at Parker. A prioritized
list of needs was developed and shared with the district and the PTO. Faculty members have been
integrating the use of the computers into the curriculum, and have created a curriculum document
that outlines sequential skill development in Grades 6 -8. We have also provided staff development
tin the use of new technologies, communicating effectively with parents and each other, and
purchasing more hardware and software. Additional support from the district has allowed us to add
one more mobile lab, and Special Education has added assistive technology to support struggling
readers.
We have obtained through the regular school budget, RTEF grants and money from the
PTO, 17 SmartBoards, several document cameras, an iPod Learning Lab, Flip Cameras and a class
School Department
set of digital cameras. We applied for grants to upgrade our TV studio, and increase hardware and
software in many classrooms. We continue to train each other and students in the use of these new
technologies. Staff and students have learned skills including computer research, databases,
Microsoft Office, Inspiration, Kurzweil, VHS, blogs, wikis, podcasting, United Streaming,
Advanced Smartboard, etc.
Improved Home /School Communication C
With the help of the Team Leaders, School Council and the PTO, we have improved C%,
communication within the school and with parents. The Parent Handbook was revised by the
School Council and completed in time for it to be included in the Summer mailing. For the fourth
year, all teams held parent coffees, a chance for teachers to talk informally with parents. In
addition, individual coffees were held for sixth grade parents off campus in the Fall. Student
schedules were mailed to all homes and uploaded onto Edline in August. The PTO and School {
Council worked together to communicate safety issues to parents, particularly in the areas of pick-
up, drop -off and speed limits. We have expanded our listsery to more than 95% of our parents who �.
receive the school newsletter and other notifications by email. Edline, a piece of software that
provides opportunities to communicate with parents, has been expanded to include daily homework ,
assignments, monthly calendars, teacher web - pages, mid - quarter progress reports, schedules,
notices and report cards.
Increased Educational and Enrichment Activities
Summer programs were held at Parker this Summer, some created and implemented by
Parker staff, others as part of the Reading Enrichment Summer Academy. One was the Pragmatics
Camp where students learned social skills for classroom use. Another was the Introduction to
Parker, an activity based program where incoming sixth grade students learned about the school and
its programs. Also, staff and parents met regularly to provide enrichment and health assemblies for
students, and to plan and revise the annual field trips.
In 2008, the following trips took place or were planned for the Spring of 2009:
• The French Trip - 8`h Grade
• Nature's Classroom - 7`h Grade
• Eco -Club to Costa Rica - 8`h Grade t'
• Twain House Trip - 7`h Grade (,
• Little Farm Trip — 6`h Grade �.
• Challenger Trip — 6`h Grade t ,
• Future City Engineering Challenge — 8`h Grade
• North Shore Music Theatre -- 7`h Grade
• Plum Island Trip — 6`h Grade
Peer leaders and Student Council continued to work as key members of the school
conununity who work to improve school climate and do community service. The after - school
enrichment program expanded this year and includes Anime Art, Art Studio, Basketball, Board
Games, Clay Club, Color Guard, Crocheting Basics, Dodge Ball, Field Hockey, Flag Football,
Flash Animation, Floor Hockey, French Club, Gymnastics, Hip Hop, Jazz Club, Homework Club,
Knitting, Math Team, Science Creativity Club, Scholastic Art Preparation, Science Club, SIMCity
Science, Spanish Club, Stamping & Scrapbooking, Talent Show Preparation and Whiffle Ball.
I.
School Department
New Staff
We would like to welcome as our new eighth grade English teacher, Brian James, who
replaced Meg Rutenbeck, and Jaime Walsh who became the Title I Math teacher. Beginning her
first full year as the eighth grade LLD teacher is Julie Merrill. Laura Nichols became our new
Spanish teacher, and Constantine Georgopoulos started his first full year as a new Special Education
teacher in' Grade 7. We are very fortunate to welcome Donna Beaulieu as an Office Assistant, and
were extremely lucky to have Stacey Sherpe transfer from Killam Elementary to replace Katie
Wildeman as our School Psychologist.
Alice M. Barrows Elementary School
Karen Callan, Principal
The 2008 year proved to be fruitful and fulfilling for the staff and students at the Alice M.
Barrows Elementary School. The students benefited by the various curriculum initiatives, projects
and events that took place during the year.
Blue Ribbon
The Barrows community participated in the Blue Ribbon assessment in June, 2007. After an
extensive review of the results, our school improvement plan, committee work and general
initiatives were centered on the findings of this report.
After 18 months of diligent work, Barrows was awarded the Blue Ribbon Lighthouse
Award at the Blue Ribbon Conference in December, 2008. This award demonstrates the continuing
hard work, commitment and collaboration of the staff, students and parents at the Barrows School.
_Lifelong Guidelines and Lifeskills
In September, Barrows adopted the Lifelong Guidelines and Lifeskills as developed by
Susan Kolevik. This program forms the foundations of skins that children need for positive
relationships throughout their lives. Through monthly assemblies, the Lifelong Guidelines and
Lifeskills are introduced and demonstrated. During each ensuing month, children are acknowledged
for displaying the attributes monthly skill. Lifelong Guidelines such as Trustworthiness,
Truthfulness, Active Listening, No Put - downs, and Personal Best permeate the school environment.
This program has brought together all of our previous programs, including the Caring, Respect and
Responsibility programs under one umbrella.
Safe
The formulation of a Barrows -based Safety Committee has formulated concrete plans for
the safety of our children. The seven committee members have been trained in ICS 100 and 700,
and meet on a monthly basis to establish guidelines to keep the entire population safe under any
circumstance. In October, Barrows participated in their first lock -down drill under the watch of the
Reading Resource Office and the Reading Police Department. Continued planning, training and
implementation of further safety plans will take place during 2009.
Technology
A highly successful PTO sponsored auction led to the purchasing of new computers and
SmartBoards. Currently, Barrows now has a SmartBoards in every classroom, the Library and the
DLC special needs room. Teachers and students interactively use the SmartBoards on a daily basis.
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School Department
Also, teachers have added to their technology skills by attending workshops and courses in t
SmartBoards usage, wikis, blogging, internet use and podcasting. The addition of new applications
such as updated Boardmakcr, Photo Story 3, United Streaming, and Movie Maker has enhanced t
lessons throughout the building. Classes have begun to use flip video cameras and podeast
presentations to further their presentations. The wide area network has allowed staff to share `
lessons, communicate and interact with other educators throughout the system. 21" Century
learning is taking place daily in every classroom.
Staffine
An added first grade classroom allowed for reasonable class size numbers in the primary
grades. Ms. Ashley LaBella, a former kindergarten teacher, was hired for this room. After the r
transfer of the Art Educator, Mrs. Elizabeth Hurley was hired to teach Art in Grades 1 -5. Mrs.
Hurley came to Barrows with many years of art experiences in private and public settings. Mr.
Laurence Conn, fifth grade teacher, retired after 34 years as an elementary teacher. Ms. Tricia
Harbour moved from a long -term substitute to the teaching of fifth grade Social Studies and
Language Arts in Mr. Conn's place. Ms. Tara Herlihy transferred to the Barrows' Special Needs
program from the Coolidge Middle School. Finally, Mrs. Michelle Kurchian and Mrs. Brenda
Miles began a job -share position in September. This very successful collaboration between two
s.
veteran educators has been extremely beneficial for the fifth grade students. l
Community Outreach {
Reaching out to those who need support is an overarching theme at Barrows. Monthly,
under the guidance of the Student Council, Girl and Boy Scouts, classroom teachers and the general (fir
population, the school was involved in many community outreach projects.
New this year was the March for the Military which provided needed supplies for t
Reading service men and women who are stationed out of the country. The Annual St. Jude's i
Math- A -Thon involving the fourth and fifth grade students yielded over $9,000.00 for this
worthwhile hospital. Coat collections, mitten drives, Globe Santa and food drives were also efforts
taken on by the Barrows' population.
In closing, all members of the Barrows' community continued to grow and learn during
the 2008 year. Our continued drive towards excellence is exhibited in the everyday interactions of t.
staff, students, parents and the greater community.
r
Birch Meadow Elementary School
Eric Sprung, Principal
Birch Meadow Elementary School started the school year with a new Principal, Eric
Sprung, and a renewed focus on literacy. Based on the latest MCAS test data, the Birch Meadow
staff analyzed our approach to reading instruction. Each teacher made a commitment to provide
instruction which meets students' needs through guided reading and using data to influence our
instructional decisions.
We were fortunate this Summer to receive enough SmartBoards for every classroom.
Teachers were trained and have been using this learning tool on a daily basis. Credit goes to the
Birch Meadow' parents and the Town of Reading for their joint funding which enabled us to receive
this latest technology which enhances our classrooms and student learning.
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Curriculum and Instruction
Guided reading has been a focus of our English Language Arts curriculum and instruction.
As a way of improving MCAS scores and overall reading comprehension, our staff has participated
in a variety of professional development opportunities to help improve guided reading instruction.
Reading specialist Debra Kwiatek has worked with staff and students to enhance our guided reading
program, and develop best practices within the classroom.
A literacy team was established at Birch Meadow. This literacy team organized an ELA
night where staff and parents returned to Birch Meadow for evening seminars. The parents were
provided with information about our reading program along with strategies to work with their
students at home to help with reading comprehension.
MCAS preparation classes have begun at Birch Meadow. These classes for students in
Grades 3 -5 are held after school. The teachers involved are Jolene Tewksbury, Courtney Quinlan
and JoAnne Garelick. Students are taught test - taking strategies while answering multiple choice
and open -ended questions. Over 30 students are voluntarily involved in this program.
Tullie Warshauer, Birch Meadow's Library Media Specialist, has begun our annual Read
Across America Program. This year's theme is "Heroes." Students will discuss, in their classes,
what makes a hero, name a hero and explain why that person is a hero to him/her. Students are
encouraged to read a variety of books, keep a log of the books they read and earn "power points."
The program will kick off with a visit from "Word Woman," and culminate with a visit from a
special Principal "Super Hero" when the students reach our power point goal.
Birch Meadow is also developing a new behavior program this year. The program will
focus on six character traits: Responsibility, friendship, honesty, respect, caring and leadership.
Each month, the students will have an assembly introducing the new character trait. Teachers and
parents are then encouraged to discuss this trait with their students. Parents and teachers can award
students with a "bear" when they demonstrate the behavior at school or at home.
Parent Involvement
Birch Meadow is fortunate to have such a supportive and dedicated group of parents. The
Birch Meadow PTO led by Kerri -Lee DeRusha and Carla Andrade remain a valuable part of our
school community. A variety of enrichment programs at Birch Meadow such as our Respect
assembly with Nikki Hu and Guy Van Duser, a rope jumping demonstration, author visits, music
programs, and many others are all made possible by the PTO and their fund- raising efforts.
Spooky Fun Fair, pancake breakfasts, movie. nights, teacher appreciation luncheon,
holiday cookie trays for teachers, and the adult social are just of the few wonderful community
building activities that, without the PTO, would not exist. Parent volunteers in the classroom,
cafeteria and on committees help to make Birch Meadow a school where curriculum and instruction
are enhanced, teachers feel supported, and students are provided with a fun and engaging
educational experience.
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Student Curriculum and Enrichment Programs
The students of Birch Meadow enjoy educational and exciting curriculum and enrichment
programs. Kindergartners have monthly study programs centered on literacy. The students engage
in rhyming and phonemic awareness exercises. Kindergarten will also enjoy many fascinating
enrichment programs including a paper making presentation.
First grade teachers participate in the Response to Intervention Program closely
monitoring the progress of our younger students. First graders will also have an enrichment
program teaching them about felt making as well as a visit entitled "Animal Encounters."
Second grade will be studying Colonial America. To coincide with this unit, the
students will learn about tepee building. Second graders will also get a visit from "Helen Keller."
Grade three enrichment includes a visit from a bee keeper, the Art Quest Program, and a
program discussing meteorology with NECN meteorologist Matt Noyes.
Fourth grade studies the different regions of the United States in Social Studies, rocks
and minerals and living things in Science, and have started the Wordly Wise vocabulary program
this year. Fourth graders have enjoyed many enrichment programs including a mapping program,
U.S. Regions and Exploring Early Winds.
Fifth grade students have the opportunity to participate in student council where they
work on fund - raising projects, charitable programs and plan fun activities for the whole school.
Fifth graders study early American History, the environment and the solar system as well as
Everyday Math. Fifth grade students change classes for Social Studies, Science and Math in �.
.preparation for Middle School. Their enrichment will feature Top Secret Science and a visit from
the Lexington Minutemen. {'
Faculty nd Staff
The Birch Meadow teachers have continued to seek out ways to improve their t
instructional practices. English Language Arts is one area of focus this year. The faculty and staff
are committed to the improvement of students' reading comprehension and writing skills. Teachers `.
continue to participate in a variety of professional development opportunities to enhance the
Language Arts.
SmartBoards training for teachers has enhanced the educational experience in the
classroom. Teachers are exited to use this new technology as a way of connecting the curriculum
with their students.
A few of our teachers had the opportunity to attend the Blue Ribbon Schools of
Excellence Conference this year in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. The teachers are excited to share
their experiences with the rest of the staff, and work together in becoming a Blue Ribbon School.
One way of attaining this status is to form building based committees to improve our school
community. Some of our committees include a technology team, leadership team, climate and
culture team, and a school newspaper committee.
Birch Meadow Elementary School is pleased to have such supportive parents, hard
working students and committed teachers. �
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Joshua Eaton School
Patricia A. de Garavilla, Principal
It was a very successful year at Joshua Eaton School in 2008. The school began the year
with its new recognition as a "Blue Ribbon Lighthouse School" as named by the Blue Ribbon
Schools of Excellence. There was a continued focus on the journey toward excellence that was
supported by teachers, students, parents, the community of Reading and administration.
Curriculum and Instruction
All teachers participated in a variety of professional development opportunities that
supported school goals. Four teachers completed training in the Open Circle social awareness
curriculum, and two were trained to work as school consultants. Others participated in the
Expanding Teaching and Learning course offered by the district.
The first grade team, along with Special Education and reading teachers, developed and
piloted a new reading instruction model called Flexible Grouping. This allowed teachers to meet
the needs of all students for reading in a different and more effective manner. This has been
expanded to Grade 2.
Summer programming was offered for students with the "Stay on Track" academic program
that was taught by Karen Feeney, Liz Kasprzyk and Susan Wilkinson.
Communitv Outreach
Our 10` Annual Veterans' Day Assembly was a wonderful tribute to our special guests.
Over 75 veterans enjoyed the performances of the Joshua Eaton students and singer Dan Clark. The
students sang several songs and recited poems in honor of the veterans. Students Lily Mittnight and
Jake Rhodes served as emcees, and Cameron Dieselman sang the "Star Spangled Banner."
Over 200 grandparents and local senior citizens attended the 10`' Annual Senior Tea.
Almost 150 students performed for the audience with an entertaining selection of songs as directed
by Mrs. Alicia McKenney, our Music teacher.
t Through the efforts of.our PTO, students support the less fortunate in the community
t through contributions for Thanksgiving food baskets. The entire school community is proud of the
wonderful spirit of giving present at Eaton. We also supported our troops with a collection that was
sent to Iraq for a relative of teacher Nichole May - Gilchrist, and were thrilled to welcome him home
at a special assembly in April.
Parental Involvement
Joshua Eaton is most fortunate to have many dedicated parent volunteers. The PTO, under
the leadership of President Priscilla Hollenbeck, raised thousands of dollars to support enrichment
activities for student learning and provided many fun social events for families. They sponsored
family activities such as the new Back to School Family Picnic, the Halloween Howl, the Jaguar
Jog and the Ice Cream Social which were all positively received by the many Eaton families who
attended. Special credit goes to Greta Malstrom and Marita Lanzilotta as fundraising chairs.
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Our school was able to complete its three year technology plan with the purchase of the
SmartBoards so that each classroom now has this most valuable teaching and learning tool. Parents
and community members enjoyed visiting Joshua Eaton for the Technology Showcase where they
saw firsthand SmartBoards, computers on wheels, word processors, software programs, the
computer late, and a vast assortment of technology projects from students.
The School Advisory Council (Principal, Parent and Teacher Representatives) focused on
the annual school improvement plan. The following members are in their third year of service:
Parents Christine Downey, Kathleen Maffa- Krailo (current co- chair), Angela Binda (past co- chair),
teachers Jennifer Mercer and Kathleen Ammendolia (whose terms ended in June), and new teacher
members Marcia Gibbons and Maureen Lynch. Patricia de Garavilla, Principal, served as co- chair.
A highlight of the year was the completion of the Clock Tower Restoration Project.
Students cheered as the weathervane was put back in place, and many families joined the
countdown to lighting the clock for the first time in many years. A group of parents and community
volunteers led by Chair Mary Richards are credited with successful fundraising and support to lead
this project to its completion. Local politicians, community representatives and families joined in
the rededication of the Clock Tower on Veterans' Day evening, a fitting tribute to Sgt. Joshua
Eaton.
Students
Joshua Eaton students showed great school spirit through their involvement in classroom
and extracurricular activities.
Parent Lori Hodin again coordinated the National Math Olympiad Program at Joshua Eaton. !.
Over 60 students participated in the weekly team meetings and competitions. Student winners were
Mary Lim, Alexandra Sahagian and Jonathan Schwartz. Joshua Eaton School finished in the top
20% of all schools participating in the country. Teachers Debi Kinton, Linda Lydecker and Lauren
Fusco served as coaches for the third, fourth and fifth grade teams respectively.
Students in Grades 3, 4 and 5 also had the opportunity to participate in the weekly school
chorus conducted by Mrs. McKenney. Teachers Anne Manna, Karen Feeney, Nichole May -
Gilchrist and Debi Kinton oversaw the Student Council. Our students were involved in school -wide
projects such as buddy reading, cafeteria karaoke, fundraising, and taking on leadership roles within
the school.
Students Grace Marie Tulley and Duncan Dietz were recognized for their writing through (.
outside contests. (.
This Fall, over 75 students participated in school teams as part of the district -wide Lego ( '
Robotics Program that was coordinated by Parent David Ventola. They enjoyed designing projects
to meet the leam challenge they received regarding global warming.
Faculty and Staff
The Joshua Eaton teachers and support staff have continued to identify areas to improve
their students' educational experience. Many participated in training sessions for the new
SmartBoards. All teachers participated in building committees that address various aspects of
school improvement such as school culture, indicators of success, and challenging standards and
curriculum.
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School Department
Again, Joshua Eaton teachers were most involved with sharing their expertise and led
workshops at the Blue Ribbon Schools of Excellence National Conference. Susan Libby, Nichole
May - Gilchrist, Marie Kiley and Jaime Quinn, along with Patricia de Garavilla, participated.
Special congratulations went out to Barbara Bazylinski who retired in June after teaching in
Reading for 35 years.
The Joshua Eaton School is proud of its students, teachers and staff and parent community!
Everyone is committed to providing the best education possible to help our students be prepared for
their futures within the 21 s' Century global society.
J.W. Killam Elementary School
Catherine A. Giles, Principal
Our Mission
The J.W. Kiliam Elementary School community, which consists of our staff, our School
Council, our families, and our students created a new mission statement during the 2008 school
year. Our mission is displayed in the main entrance of our school to remind us what it is that we
strive to accomplish. Our mission states that we.... support and motivate our students to achieve
their personal best in challenging, relevant and supportive learning environments that prepare them
for future academic and social success.
The following highlights are from the 2008 school year, and helped to move us forward on
our journey towards excellence.
Technolou Integration
Technology Integration is a Blue Ribbon Standard that emphasizes the importance of
utilizing technology in an effective, efficient manner by incorporating the technology standards for
students. Three of our School Improvement goals for this year (see Edline for a complete list of all
of our SIP goals) related directly to technology:
1. To equip every classroom with a SmartBoards and a new computer /laptop.
2. To expand the use of Edline as a tool for communicating with parents.
3. To identify and book mark curriculum -based clips on United Streaming to use as a
resource with our students.
With technology as a primary focus for our school this year, thanks to an RTEF grant, the
district and our very successful PTO Auction, we were able to purchase the following forms of
technology during the school year: 15 flip videos, '/x of a COW (15 laptop computers on a cart with
wheels) as well as seven new SmartBoards.
In addition to all of this, we have subscriptions to many databases for student research,
teacher lesson planning and learning resources. Another area where technology is essential is, of
course, our district -wide website source Edline. With the help of Mrs. Ferrazanni, our media
specialist, the incoming Kindergarten families have their activation codes and, in many cases, many
of the families activated their codes during the Kindergarten screening.
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School Department
Students of families who have activated Killam Edline accounts can now communicate with ?.
me directly through my wiki space. This wiki space is a safe and protected space for Killam r'
students. I post questions weekly in hopes that students will respond to them. It is my way of �..
trying to join in with our teachers and help promote 21" Century Learning Skills in our children.
Professional Communities
Grade Level Changes
This year, Mrs. Jo -Ellen McGinnity, one of our third grade teachers, joined the fifth grade
team in the Fall and Ms. Tonia McGuire, formerly a fifth grade teacher, joined the fourth grade
team as we needed to expand to four classrooms. Grade changing is a great way for educators to
grow professionally and challenge themselves.
Professional Communities
In addition to these grade -level changes, we hired the following staff members:
Ms. Nina Balfe - 1/2 time Kindergarten teacher and K -2 tutor {.
Ms. Christen DelRossi - grade one teacher
Ms. Toni Roucco - grade one teacher
Ms. Stacey Walsh - grade two teacher
Ms. Erin Burchill - grade four teacher
Mrs. Jessica Ostuni - School Psychologist
Ms. Jessie Proulx - Learning Center teacher
Mr. Keith Gaillard - Student Support Center teacher
District -Wide Professional Day
At our district-wide professional day in April, our keynote speaker Dr. Tim Tyson spoke to
us about the importance of educating, and using technology as part of our daily teaching practices.
Many of our own Killam teachers presented to other teachers, and shared some of the great things
that are happening within their classrooms.
Blue Ribbon Conference
This year, four of our T.R.R.F.C.C. Killam teachers (Amy Burgoyne, Katie Cole, Deb
Dellovo and Jessica McKenzie) attended and presented at the Blue Ribbon Schools of Excellence
National Conference. This is a wonderful accomplishment and honor for these teaehers...we are
proud to have them representing our school!
Throughout the year, many teachers have been busy teaching and taking technology
workshops as well. Some of the workshops being offered include SmartBoards I and II, United
Streaming, Excel, Blogs /Wikis and computer basics. One of our teachers took the course Web 2.0 i
which was taught by our new School Committee member Karen Janowski.
School Organization and Culture
Be Somebody (.
This year, artist Rob Surette visited Killam School for an all - school assembly. His
presentation was titled Be Somebody! As he created portraits of famous people, he motivated and
inspired us to believe in ourselves and follow our hearts and dreams! The PTO, together with the
Pillars and Enrichment Committees, purchased two new portraits for our collection - the Statue of
Liberty and Albert Einstein. {
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School Department
Character Counts Week
National Character Counts Education Week was the week of October 20th. During the
week, we introduced some new school -wide "bucket - filling" activities. We also held our monthly
all- school meetings, and each meeting related to a specific bucket - filling word.
T.R.R.F.C.C. Walk
We had our second Annual Walk for Character. Deb Koury, our T.R.R.F.C.C. Coordinator
and her T.R.R.F.C.C. Walk Committee planned, prepped and volunteered for our event.
Lunch with Mrs. Giles
This year, I scheduled a time to eat lunch with all of our new Killam students. Each of them
were encouraged to bring a new Killam friend along. I had a wonderful time getting to know all of
our new students and hearing about their first few months at our school.
Physical Building Appearance
Last year's Blue Ribbon Conference attendees returned excited to share lots of the
information they obtained from visiting a school in South Carolina. That school staff redesigned
much of the school's physical appearance after reading and researching a book titled `Brained -
Based Classrooms." The authors stated many research -based design and decorating tips that have
proven to enhance student achievement and social emotional wellness. Our staff decided that we
would collectively read this book to help us improve our building's physical appearance. We
identified that our biggest obstacle is our building's appearance in terms of cleanliness and clutter.
We spent lots of time in the Spring working together to declutter our classrooms and office spaces
as well as to do whatever we could to make our building super clean!
Parents were invited to join the Killam staff in our efforts to give our school an extreme
i school makeover! Our efforts continued in the Summer when we took on some big projects. We
painted two walls in the cafeteria, relocated the Rob Surette artwork to the cafeteria, had a mural
painted in our media, cleaned up our school grounds both in front and in back, and planted some
trees and flowers on our school grounds.
i
During the Summer, Rob Serette transformed our cafeteria into a wonderful dining hall by
painting the walls and hanging his "Be Somebody" portraits. We purchased many round tables for
` this room as well. All of our classrooms and common areas were cleaning from top to bottom...
thanks to Mr. Marden and Mr. Ricardo. Mrs. Giaquinto, one of our T.R.R.F.C.C. moms, painted
our front entrance way bulletin board, and our map of the United States in the Media Center.
We created three mini - computer labs in each of our classroom wings, and updated our
existing computer lab with 28 laptop computers. Mrs. Karen Sawyer worked countless hours this
Summer to help prepare our school for 21" Century leaming. We also had a tremendous amount of
office furniture donated to our school by Mr. Carl McFadden.
In the Fall, many parents and students volunteered their time to help paint our gym. A group
of about 10 parents painted for eight hours one Saturday to get this job done! The gym looks
T.R.R.F.C.0
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Leadership and Vitality
Principal's Conference
I was fortunate to attend the National Principal's Conference the first weekend in April with
a group of Massachusetts Principals. One of the featured keynote speakers was Daniel Pink,
educator and author. His research relates to the importance of brain -based learning.
Student Council Representatives
We continued with our newly implemented Student Council elections and monthly
meetings. Students in Grades 3, 4, 5 were able to run for Student Council (that is, unless they were
elected last year). This year, our fifth grade reps were held accountable to record our meeting
Minutes to post on Edline. The Student Council kicked off the New Year with an exciting way to
collect Box Tops for Education! The Student Council reps planned a contest to see which
classroom collected the most Box Tops. At the end of the month, our reps count and see which
classroom collected the most for our school.
School Council
Our School Council held its monthly meetings. The first task of this school year was to
write a Vision Statement for our school. This statement is aligned with our new mission and
continues to be a work in progress.
School, Community and Family Partnerships
Holidav Help Success
The Killam community showed caring, respect and citizenship to others this past holiday
season by donating money and gift cards to our "Holiday Helpers" Family fundraiser. We collected
over $1500.00 in just three weeks time! We were able to allocate a little over $200.00 per child. It's
a wonderful feeling to know that we all cooperated and helped to make the holiday season of others
one to enjoy and remember!
Our Annual Curriculum Night and Learning lair are special nights for families to visit
Killam classrooms and see highlights of student work and special projects. This year, our �.
classrooms'and hallways were filled with Killam families. They are both great nights!
As the 2008 school year comes to a close, it is so nice to look back and celebrate all of the
wonderful activities which occurred and that we have accomplished this year. At the last School (.
Council Meeting of the school year, we determined that, as a school community, we had achieved
approximately 95% of the goals we had set for ourselves this year in our school improvement plan.
We are actively working to meet that same goal for this year.
i
Wood En& Elementary School (,
Richard E. Davidson, Principal
Wood End Elementary School "officially" opened its doors in September 2005 for the first
time as the fifth elementary school in Reading. It is hard to believe that we are now well into the
middle of our fourth year as a new elementary school. I guess the adjective "new" no longer r
applies. However, an observation that has not changed is the fact that we remain very proud of and
thankful for the very generous parent.and community support that made this school possible.
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We also continue to be very thankful for the very high level of parent involvement
throughout the school and while not wanting to offend anyone, I would be remiss if I didn't
recognize our PTO which continues to support technology and our technology plan developed by
parents and staff. They clearly recognize the importance of technology as a tool for learning. They
continue to, support outstanding enrichment programs and fund field trips for all out grade levels.
They clearly understand that their sole purpose is to do what is best for the children and families of
Wood End and it shows every day.
I also want to recognize our school based Safety Committee who have been instrumental in
organizing our Walk to School Wednesday's initiative, and who will help launch a Placard Pick -up
System later this month which should greatly enhance safety for everyone at the busiest time of day.
They have been essential in helping me to keep safety our first priority at Wood End through their
newsletters, bulletins and simply through daily conversations.
Bullying Prevention Program
As a school, we continue to be committed to enhancing the physical and mental health of all
children, which includes the prevention of any type of bullying and teasing. In order to hold true to
this commitment, we have continued a "Sustainability Committee" at our school with Principal,
teacher, specialist, assistant and parent membership. Our goal is to develop and oversee a program
that supports, educates, and celebrates positive decision making by students in a climate that
practices zero indifference to bullying and teasing. Our responsibility is to keep the focus fresh and
meaningful for all who work and learn here at Wood End.
This year, we have continued to expand our use of the Open Circle Program in almost all of
the classrooms. With the help of our PTO, every teacher has now been trained in the Open Circle
curriculum. Our goal in providing training for all classroom teachers is to provide a common
language and a common set of expectations for all students and adults.
This year, we have expanded our All School Meetings so that every Friday there is time to
meet with smaller groups or individual grade levels to focus on trust building activities, and to
further connect with the Open Circle curriculum that is being taught in each classroom through
regular class meetings.
Curriculum
As a district and as a school, we continue to be pleased about our continuing curriculum
enhancements. This year, at the K -2 level, we are entering our eighth year of the Language Arts
Program, Scholastic's Literacy Place, and our fourth year of the Wilson's Fundation Phonics
Program which has proven to be helpful to beginning readers as well improve students writing and
spelling skills. Further, the John Collins Writing Program continues to provide consistency in terms
of expectations, and a common language and common framework for writing.
In support of current research regarding the development of reading skills, we have
continued the Response To Intervention Program (RTI) at the first grade level where struggling
students are identified through assessments, and a focused direct method of delivering needed skills
is taught to them everyday and expanded it to the Kindergarten level.
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Our Math program continues to provide appropriate challenges for all students. It
encourages students to think mathematically and recognize applications of math concepts to
everyday life. It is also closely aligned with the Massachusetts State Frameworks. This past
Spring, Wood End fifth graders scored seventh is the State's MCAS Mathematics test.
c
Three years ago, we implemented a new Social Studies Program from Harcourt School
Publishers called Horizons at the fourth and fifth grade level. It is a text -based program for these
grade levels and is rich with resources and supplemental materials that strongly recognize the
importance of technology in everyday learning.
Our Science program is a hands -on "kit" based curriculum which teaches important
concepts of physical, earth and life sciences. The program at all levels stresses, observations,
measurement, journal writing, teaming and hands on experimentation.
In an effort to continually review and improve our curriculum, two years ago we began a
system of review through a mapping of our Math program, and have now completed a similar effort �.
with Language Arts program. The district has also continued its K -12 Vertical Science Team that
has reviewed current Science program and instructional practices, and has developed the essential
standards for K -12 Science instruction.
Library Media
As a new school, we continue to be very excited about our Library Media facility. It is f.
beautiful in its design and located in a central place in the school. Indeed, the Library Media Center
is seen as the hub and heart of our school setting. Reading is fortunate in that each school has its
own full -time Library Media Specialist and at Wood End, we have continued the use of flexible
scheduling which allows all students and faculty access to the Library when they have the need.
At any time of the day upon entering the Library, you will see students, library staff, .
teaching staff or parent volunteers interacting and supporting each other in various research
projects, reading a story to children, completing supervised internet searches, children reading
books, or simply checking books in or out. It is a very busy place and quickly has become a central
hub of learning at our school. We are also very proud of the technology that-has been added to the r
Library Media Center. We currently have a very up -to -date computer lab have added a
SmartBoards as a central focal point for integration of technology into the curriculum.
Technology
In April of 2006, Wood End received a very generous donation from The Pfizer Corporation
of over 25 used computers, monitors and related peripherals. The computers were used to establish
a much needed computer lab for students in our Library Media Center. In addition, we received a
small grant from the Reading Technology Foundation which allowed us to purchase a digital i
camera and one SmartBoards which was placed in a fifth grade classroom.
At the end of last year, we also received funding from the district for technology which
allowed us ' to add additional computer systems to the fourth and fifth grade classrooms. In the
Spring of last year, our PTO raised funding to support the purchase of three additional SmartBoards,
and dedicated computers to be used in the two remaining fifth grades and one -to be placed in the
Library Media Center.
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School Department
In the Pall of last year, funding was provided by the central office to purchase three
additional SmartBoards that were placed in our fourth grades, and the PTO funded the purchase of
three dedicated laptops for each of the new SmartBoards.
We are very excited by the continued support of technology by the central office and our
very generous PTO. This year, the PTO purchased two additional SmartBoards, and a very
generous donation from a parent allowed us to provide SmartBoards for all our second grade
classrooms. We hope to provide three additional SxnartBoards for our first grades next year.
Professional Development
As a district and as a school, we are committed to the concept of continued learning. We are
also committed to supporting our professional staff at all levels. Consequently, an enormous
amount of energy, planning and in- service is provided for teachers in Reading. The mentor
program, for example, provides support for new teachers and is an essential requirement if new
teachers are to succeed in Reading. In- service is also provided in all areas of the curriculum to all
teachers on a regular basis throughout the year and as well as during the summer months.
In December, over 20 K -12 members of the teaching staff and administration attended the
Blue Ribbon Schools Conference in Myrtle Beach. The purpose of participating in the Conference
was to visit other schools that have received that designation, and talk with teachers from many
different parts of the country. Our district has set a goal of having all our schools go through the
Blue Ribbon School Assessment Program, and also having the district named as a regional site for
future Blue Ribbon School Conferences.
In November 2007, our school received the "Point of Light" Award for its high standards
and commitment to excellence. The award was received by two of our teachers at the conference in
Charleston, South Carolina. As a school, we are currently working to apply for such a Lighthouse
School next year.
Parent Involvement
One of the major strengths of Wood End, as it is with all the schools in Reading, is the
extremely-high level of parent involvement and support. Our PTO is an outstanding organization
which contributes to the quality of live in so many ways here at Wood End.
While they do raise significant funds for enrichment programs, field trips, Library
enhancements and technology, they also enhance our instructional program by their involvement in
their children's classrooms, and by volunteering to be a part of our School Council and other
important school based committees. They readily offer support to teachers whenever the need
arises.
A Celebration of the Arts
Last May, Wood End celebrated our third Annual Art and Music Night. Together, over 300
children, staff, parents and School Committee enjoyed an evening of program, song and a display of
student artwork that represented all the students in the school.
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School Department
Mr. Mosier and Ms. Durand and a small army of volunteers began in February to collect and
organize student artwork from across the school. It was a wonderful celebration and tribute to the
importance the arts play in the education of young children.
Third Young Authors' Day
Our third Annual Young Authors' Day was held last June where students from all grade
levels shared their original stories and poems that they had written during the year. Parents joined
staff to create small groups of primary and intermediate age children in which the children shared
their original and creative writings with peers. It was outstanding to the importance of writing and
creativity.
Open Invitation
in closing, I would like to extend and open invitation to members of the Reading
community to visit our /your school. Please feel free to call me, Principal Richard E. Davidson, at
781- 942 -5420, with any questions, comments or to arrange a visit. Thank you for this wonderful
school and for your continued support.
Pupil Services
Colleen Dolan, Director
The Pupil Services Department, including special education, guidance, nursing and English
Language Learners continues to strive to provide excellent services in a fiscally responsible manner.
The achievements of the department are categorized below in the areas of program development,
professional development and budget. C
Program Development (
Beginning in the Fall of 2007, the department commenced a review of special education
programs. Service providers from the Language -based Program, Developmental Learning Center,
Integrated Learning Program and Student Support Program offered input into current challenges t,
and goals for the next several years. As a result, several new programs have been developed
including an elementary Student Support Program, elementary substantially separate program for
students with developmental delays, and a high school program offering vocational opportunities.
Budget
Through efforts to provide more and better program options, we have been able to
effectively provide services to greater numbers of students with disabilities in district. By working
with several transportation vendors and a recently developed network of several area collaborative,
transportation costs have been controlled. A concerning challenge is to fund the rising cost of out
of district placement as circuit breaker relief decreases. This trend makes it even more important
our need to provide appropriate programming in district and challenge unilateral placements.
Through professional development and purchases of new assessment and teaching tools, we ,
have reduced our reliance on outside resources. The Pupil Services Department continues to
pursue funding from outside resources while carefully managing local budget funds,
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(
l�
School Department
Professional Development
nt
Professional development has been offered to Special Education teachers and Para- educators
in many areas. Training topics include IDEA 2004, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, the
Individualized Education Program, civil rights, health concerns, facilitation of appropriate behavior,
language and social skills, disability awareness, assessment and utilizing specialized teaching
methodologies such as Wilson Reading, Gindamood Phoneme Sequencing and Project Read.
Our occupational therapy team and our speech and language therapists were afforded the
opportunity to attend national conferences held locally and School Psychologists will be provided a
similar opportunity in April of 2009.
Our School Psychologists team has worked together to plan workshops geared to current
issues of concern such as self - abuse, behavior management, anxiety and depression. Our
partnerships with Riverside Community Care and Reading Coalition Against Substance Abuse have
afforded us the opportunity to host after school brainstorming sessions for interested staff to discuss
and address mental health issues. They have also assisted in providing parent workshops dealing
with behavior management.
Through monthly department meetings, special education liaisons have had opportunities to
collaborate on IEP development and assessment.
Special Education Parent Advisory Council
The Pupil Services Office has worked closely with Reading's SEPAC to improve
communication, respond to concerns, and provide resources for families. Several workshops have
been provided through collaboration between SEPAC and Pupil Services.
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SCHOOL DEPARTMENT
WTIREMENTS
\mara, Dominic
Birch Meadow Elementary School
Facilities
3agnaschi, Jean
Reading Memorial High School
Teacher
3azylinski, Barbara
Joshua Eaton Elementary School
Teacher
'ain, Joseph
Reading Memorial High School
Technology Specialist
'.onn, Laurence
Alice M. Barrows Elementary School
Teacher
t.
)arisse, Linda
Walter S. Parker Middle School
Principal
'eit, Kenneth
Reading Memorial High School
Teacher
anes, Paul
Walter S. Parker Middle School
Facilities
Nilson, Robert
Walter S. Parker Middle School
Teacher
Zuinlan, Dorothy
Reading Memorial High School
Guidance Counselor
Sona, Patricia
Walter S. Parker Middle School
Teacher
�.
tESIGNATIONS/REDUCTIONS
Vmarelli, Janet
RISE Pre - School
Paraprofessional
krehilla, Violetta
Reading Memorial High School
Teacher
3amberg, Jessica
Walter S. Parker Middle School
Teacher
3arker, Michael
School Food Services
Cafeteria
3emiss, Brian
Reading Memorial High School
Athletics
3enoit, Collette
District
Administrative Assistant
(.,_..
3oran, Erica
J. Warren Killam Elementary School
Teacher
�ann, Jane
Reading Memorial High School
Paraprofessional
:arpenella, Sheryl
J. Warren Killam Elementary School
Paraprofessional
:himinello, Christine
Alice M. Barrows Elementary School
Paraprofessional
',olella, Judith
Walter S. Parker Middle School
Paraprofessional
"ronin, Stephen
Reading Memorial High School
Athletics
:rooker, Ashley
Arthur W. Coolidge Middle School
Paraprofessional
)aniels, Thomas
Birch Meadow Elementary School
Principal
,
)eCicco, Gloria
School Food Services
Cafeteria
)elGreco, Deborah
School Food Services
Cafeteria
)eMoura, Kevin
Walter S. Parker Middle School
Facilities
Villo, Audrey
District
Teacher
)ouglas, Lloyd
Reading Memorial High School
Athletics
(•
)uprez, Kriatin
Alice M. Barrows Elementary School
Paraprofessional
)urand, Stacey
Wood End Elementary School
Teacher
r"
)urbano, Marsha
Alice M. Barrows Elementary School
Teacher
,
)urbano, Marsha
Alice M. Barrows Elementary School
Teacher
Meet, Melissa
Arthur W. Coolidge Middle School
Paraprofessional
'oley, Kerry
Alice M. Barrows Elementary School
Paraprofessional
'orbes, Sara
Joshua Eaton Elementary School
Paraprofessional
3askill, Margaret
School Food Services
Cafeteria
(.
P324
SCHOOL DEPARTMENT
ES IGNATIONS/R EDUCTIONS
ienovese, Patricia
Alice M. Barrows Elementary School
Paraprofessional
Gilchrist, Jodi
Joshua Eaton Elementary School
Paraprofessional
,ilchrist, Julie
Joshua Eaton Elementary School
Paraprofessional
oodhue, Ben
Arthur W. Coolidge Middle School
Teacher
root, Ellen
Wood End Elementary School
Paraprofessional
luanci, Anne Marie
RISE Pre - School
Nurse
-Iannula, Robert
Reading Memorial High School
Athletics
iernandez, Kimberly
Arthur W. Coolidge Middle School
Teacher
lochberg, Samuel
Reading Memorial High School
Athletics
.bliand, Alison
Reading Memorial High School
Athletics
elley, Geraldine
Arthur W. Coolidge Middle School
Teacher
-itham, Jamie
Wood End Elementary School
Teacher
)rio, Laura
Walter S. Parker Middle School
Teacher
-4aldonado, Jennifer
Joshua Eaton Elementary School
Teacher
Aannette, Toni
Birch Meadow Elementary School
Paraprofessional
Marchand, Linda
School Food Services
Cafeteria
' .tartin, Kathryn
Reading Memorial High School
Athletics
icCarthy, Denise
Arthur W. Coolidge Middle School
Paraprofessional
IcIntire, Tiimothy
Reading Memorial High School
Teacher
' Teagher, Margaret
Reading Memorial High School
Athletics
14inard, Susan
District
Elem. Science Kit Coordinator
Aurphy, Elaine
Wood End Elementary School
Teacher
Alson, Robert
Walter S. Parker Middle School
Teacher
�rphanos, Jacqueline
District
Special Ed Program Supervisor
wen, Diane
Joshua Eaton Elementary School
Paraprofessional
311ard, Katie
Reading Memorial High School
Athletics
'wench, Kurt
Reading Memorial High School
Teacher
Q.00ney, Catherine
Arthur W. Coolidge Middle School
Paraprofessional
Koss, Julie
Arthur W. Coolidge Middle School
Reading Specialist
mossi, Joan
J. Warren Killam Elementary School
Paraprofessional
..owe, Shannon
Alice M. Barrows Elementary School
Teacher
utenbeck, Meghan
Walter S. Parker Middle School
Teacher
"aterial, Monica
Joshua Eaton Elementary School
Paraprofessional
'mith, William
District
Administrative Assistant
rarquinio, Kerry
Joshua Eaton Elementary School
Paraprofessional
Ventimiglia, Edith
J. Warren Killam Elementary School
Teacher
Weadick, Denise
Wood End Elementary School
Paraprofessional
_. Vebster, Gretchen
Arthur W. Coolidge Middle School
Teacher
7ein, Michael
Walter S. Parker Middle School
Paraprofessional
"Vest, Mary
Alice M. Barrows Elementary School
Paraprofessional
P325
tESIGNATIONS/REDUCTIONS
Nildeman, Katherine Walter S. Parker Middle School
'eshulas, Jonathon Walter S. Parker Middle School
.,EAVES OF ABSENCE
�mmendolia, Kathleen
larry, Kelly
loston, Pamela
Allan, Michelle
:ambra, Jennifer
)ailey, Kathleen
)ouglas, Karen
'edele, Amy
'inkle, Meghan
xallagher, Kerry
irimaldi, Jennifer
"cannon, Maureen
ierlihey, Tara
orns, Anne
,amontagne, Emily
Mauro, Kara
AcDonald, Tanya
Aulligan, Kristin
Aurphy, Elaine
3filos, Michelle
tedard, Alysia
toberts, Kristen
tutenbeck, Megan
ihea, Jane
3u, Vivian
Nallace, Lisa
,Hard, Louise
>torkey, Marlene
rechmann, Deanna
VEW HIRES
3alfe, Nina
3eaulieu, Donna
3enoit, Collette
Joshua Eaton Elementary School
RISE Pre- School
Alice M. Barrows Elementary School
Joshua Eaton Elementary School
Reading Memorial High School
Reading Memorial High School
J. Warren Killam Elementary School
Reading Memorial High School
Wood End Elementary School
Walter S. Parker Middle School
Reading Memorial High School
J. Warren Killam Elementary School
Arthur W. Coolidge Middle School
Reading Memorial High School
Wood End Elementary School
J. Warren Killam Elementary School
Walter S. Parker Middle School
J. Warren Killam Elementary School
Wood End Elementary School
Joshua Eaton Elementary School
RISE Pre - School
Joshua Eaton Elementary School
Walter S. Parker Middle School
Reading Memorial High School
J. Warren Killam Elementary School
J. Warren Killam Elementary School
Wood End Elementary School
Arthur W. Coolidge Middle School
Reading Memorial High School
J. Warren Killam Elementary School
Walter S. Parker Middle School
District
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SCHOOL DEPARTMENT
Psychologist
Paraprofessional
Teacher
Speech/Language
Teacher
Teacher
Teacher
Teacher
Teacher
Teacher
Teacher
Teacher
Teacher
Teacher
Teacher
Teacher
Teacher
Teacher
Teacher
Teacher
Teacher
Teacher
Physical Therapist
Reading Specialist
Teacher
Teacher
Psychologist
Teacher
Teacher
Teacher
Teacher
"Teacher
Paraprofessional
Administrative Assistant
l
l
1, 1
1.
l
l`
(
SCHOOL DEPARTMENT
''EW HIRES
{orsetti, Alicia
Wood End Elementary School
Teacher
Broadway, Sharon
Reading Memorial High School
Athletics
., yant, Cassandra
Wood End Elementary School
Paraprofessional
archill, Erin
J. Warren Killam Elementary School
Teacher
.irroll, Meghan
Arthur W. Coolidge Middle School
Paraprofessional
"atalano, Michele
District
Elem. Sei. Kit Coordinator
- habert, Sally
District
Teacher
'.hiappini, Michelle
Reading Memorial High School
Teacher
Auha, Kristine
Joshua Eaton Elementary School
Paraprofessional
.,lark, Aaron
Walter S. Parker Middle School
Teacher
lark, Joan
Joshua Eaton Elementary School
Paraprofessional
nnway, Lorraine
Joshua Eaton Elementary School
Paraprofessional
lahm, Lauren
District
Administrative Assistant
1elRossi, Christen
J. Warren Killam Elementary School
Teacher
Oevaney, Judith
Alice M. Barrows Elementary School
Paraprofessional
viruscio- Carpinito, Lisa
Arthur W. Coolidge Middle School
Paraprofessional
ariscoll, Caitlin
Reading Memorial High School
Athletics
uffy, Leshia
Wood End Elementary School
Teacher
1-inberg, Jamie
Arthur W. Coolidge Middle School
Teacher
" mrielly, Danielle
Birch Meadow Elementary School
Teacher
r-urbush, Daniel
School Food Services
Driver
tiaillard, Keith
J. Warren Killam Elementary School
Teacher
.arofalo, John
Reading Memorial High School
Athletics
jeorge, Courtney
Wood End Elementary School
Teacher
eorgopoulos, Constantine
Walter S. Parker Middle School
Teacher
i 11christ, Julie
Joshua Eaton Elementary School
Paraprofessional
'?iuliana, Mary
RISE Pre - School
Nurse
(loran, April
Reading Memorial High School
Teacher
Grady, Alison
Reading Memorial High School
Athletics
ureco, Amy
Alice M. Barrows Elementary School
Paraprofessional
_.ruilbert, Margaret
Arthur W. Coolidge Middle School
Teacher
:all, Muriel
School Food Services
Cafeteria
'arrington, Mary
Reading Memorial High School
Athletics
`!eatherton, Mary
Arthur W. Coolidge Middle School
Teacher
Kuizenga, Christian
Arthur W. Coolidge Middle School
Teacher
Hurley, Elizabeth
Alice M. Barrows Elementary School
Teacher
,.resin, Robyn
Alice M. Barrows Elementary School
Paraprofessional
_times, Brian
Walter S. Parker Middle School
Teacher
angry, Adam
Walter S. Parker Middle School
Assistant Principal
7.ourbali, Houria
School Food Services
Cafeteria
P327
SCHOOL DEPARTMENT
4EW AIRES
McConnell, Christina
Reading Memorial High School
Athletics
t`
McVety, Brian
Reading Memorial High School
'reacher
Merchant, Robyn
Arthur W. Coolidge Middle School
Teacher
Merrill, Julie
Walter S. Parker Middle School
Teacher
�-
Jacht, Mark
Birch Meadow Elementary School
Guidance/ Psychology
(,y
lazzaro, Laura
J. Warren Killam Elementary School
Paraprofessional
(F
)Brien, Laura
School Food Services
Cafeteria
)rlando, Frank
District
Grant Administrator
�.
)stuni, Jessica
J. Warren Killam Elementary School
Guidance/ Psychology
`
)wen, Diane
Joshua Eaton Elementary School
Paraprofessional
'avcy, Jessica
Alice M. Barrows Elementary School
Paraprofessional
�.
'loch, Margaret
District
Adult Education Director
'roulx, Jessie
J. Warren Killarn Elementary School
Teacher
tehin, Jan
Alice M. Barrows Elementary School
Paraprofessional
tossi, Joan
J. Warren Killam Elementary School
Teacher
Lowe, Shannon
Alice M. Barrows Elementary School
Teacher
tuocco, Toni
J. Warren Killarn Elementary School
Teacher
icaglione, Stephanie
Arthur W. Coolidge Middle School
Teacher
�.
>igsbury, Duane
Reading Memorial High School
Athletics
( .
Smith, William
District
Administrative Assistant
ipringer, Michael
Reading Memorial High School
Teacher
(.
iprung, Eric
Birch Meadow Elementary School
Principal
Thomas, Christopher
Reading Memorial High School
Teacher
tucker, Michelle
J. Warren Killarn Elementary School
Paraprofessional
Jllrnan, Jacqueline
Wood End Elementary School
Teacher
C
Ventura, Robert
District
Technical Support Services
Walsh, James
Walter S. Parker Middle School
Teacher
( .
Walsh,. Stacey
J. Warren Killarn Elementary School
Teacher
Wendel, Dana
Arthur W. Coolidge Middle School
Teacher
�
Williams, Matthew
Reading Memorial High School
Athletics
Wood, Heather
RISE Pre - School
Paraprofessional
(. '
i(eshulas, Johathan
Walter S. Parker Middle School
Paraprofessional
c
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c,
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r
P328
Nort � �t• Met e .
Regional Vocational
High School DI r'
Serving
Chelsea
Malden
Melrose
No. Reading
Reading
Revere
Saugus
Stoneham
Wakefield
Winchester
Winthrop
Woburn
P329
y 4
... n.... �..� \ R Pr.
1
NORTHEAST METROPOLITAN REGIONAL VOCATIONAL SCHOOL DISTRICT
i
SCHOOL ADMINISTRATION
SUP RINTENDENT- DIRECTOR
Patricia K. Cronin
pEPUTY DIRE.CTOR/PRINCIPAL
John X. Crowley
VICE PRINCIPAL - VOCATIONAL COORDINATOR
Theodore Nickole
DISTRICT SCHOOL COMMITTEE
SCHOOL COMMITTEE CHAMMAN
Deborah P. Davis - Woburn
VICE CHAIRMAN
Henry S. Hooton - Melrose
SECRETARY
Peter A. Rossetti, Jr. - Saugus
TREASURER
Paul L. Sweeney - North Reading
ASSOCIATE TREASURER
Anthony E. DeTeso - Stoneham
COMMITTEE MEMBERS
John J. Bradley - Winchester Earl W. Fitzpatrick - Malden
Robert J. Capezza — Winthrop Ronald J. Jannino - Revere
Vincent J. Carisella - Wakefield Maura A. Looney - Reading
Michael T. Wall - Chelsea
P330
NORTHEAST METROPOLITAN REGIONAL VOCATIONAL SCHOOL DISTRICT
100 Hemlock Road - Wakefield, Massachusetts 01880 -3597
Outstanding Student Award
Sebastian Dominguez of Revere was chosen as Northeast's nominee at the State Awards
Dinner for Outstanding Vocational Technical Students. The event is co- sponsored by the
Massachusetts Association of Vocational Administrators and the Massachusetts Vocational
Association.
National Technical Honor Society
The Northeast Chapter of the National Technical Honor Society held its annual Induction
Ceremony in March. At the ceremony, eight seniors and 41 juniors were inducted. These students
joined the previously inducted members to bring the Technical Honor Society Chapter to 84
members for the 2007 -2008 school year.
National Honor Society
The Annual Induction Ceremony to the Northeast Chapter of the National Honor Society
"Artisans" was held in March. At the ceremony, five seniors, 20 juniors and six sophomores were
inducted for the 2007 -2008 school year bringing the total membership to 62.
Skills/USA Awards
Neil Masiello of Winthrop and Katherine Lan of Wakefield participated in the National Skill
USA Conference held in Kansas City during the Summer of 2008.
Student Advisory Representative to the School Committee
Justien Martin, a senior .from Chelsea, was elected as the Student Representative to the
School Committee for the 2007 -08 school year.
Scholarship Committee
The Northeast Awards and Scholarship Committee presented awards and scholarships to 77
deserving students at the Ninth Annual Senior Recognition Night. A total of $23,250 was presented
to Northeast students who will be working in their vocational field, entering trade apprentice
programs, or going on to one, two or four -year programs at accredited colleges, universities and
trade schools. These awards and scholarships provide the students the opportunities to purchase
tools and equipment, as well as to assist in offsetting the expenses of educational institutions.
Peer Mediation Pro ram
After 12 years of an affiliation with SCORE and CDSC, Northeast established its own Peer
Mediation Program. Our Northeast Peer Mediation Center continues to help reduce problems at
Northeast. The mediation process is successful in resolving conflicts concerning rumors, threats,
name- calling, teasing, harassment, hazing and physical fights. Northeast has a full -time
Coordinator, and 39 trained junior and senior peer mediators. A trained mediator is a neutral person
not involved in the dispute and through the mediation process, helps people come to their own
agreement about how they want to resolve their conflict.
P331
School Department
i
Professional Development
Plan Development
The Professional Development Subcommittee of the Perkins /Title I Local Plan Committee
gives direction to the District for the planning of professional development activities. This
Subcommittee ensures that planned activities focus on the district goals and priorities. The t.
members of this subcommittee are academic and career /technical teachers and counselors, serve as
the "High School That Work" Leadership Team, and report to the District Administrator
responsible for professional development. They assist in the coordination and evaluation of these r
activities, aligning available professional development resources with district goals, and serve as a
resource for the School Council for the development of the School Improvement Plan.
In an effort to promote professional learning that is both relevant and sustained, this
subcommittee reviewed professional development models and activities recommended by the other
subcommittees of the Local Plan, the HSTW State Coordinator and the National Staff (.
Development Council. Priority is given to professional development activities that address the
needs identified by the core indicator data.
Plan development priorities include: (.
• Coordinating a professional development program that meets the needs of both beginning
and veteran teachers as well as paraprofessionals, and emphasizes content -based offerings
while addressing the topics of teaching to your strengths, parental concerns, special t
education issues, English language leaner strategies, classroom management techniques,
and other effective practices that improve student learning and achievement.
• Pursuing models for delivering professional development to best accomplish plan priorities.
• Fostering a professional learning, community that encourages teachers, paraprofessionals
and administrators to work together, eliminates barriers to common planning time, and
encourages educators to solicit feedback from each other to improve their practices.
• Exploring activities that increase school -wide knowledge of the educational activities
occurring in each department within the school.
• The subcommittee evaluates the success of their actions by evaluating the products and
deliverables created during the professional learning activities, by evaluating the impact of
the professional development activities on the core indicators for each subgroup and special
population addressed, and by analyzing the follow -up data collected from teacher surveys
especially the HSTW survey.
Structure for 2007 -2008 t.
Goals: (;
• Establish small professional learning groups to encourage sharing of ideas.
• increase the technology skill level of the staff and the use of technology in the classroom.
• Provide information on educational legal issues. <<
Activities
• Meet and Greet, "FAV 5" card for selecting learning group membership
• "How Full Is Your Bucket" reading activity
• MassONE Training
Vocational 'Technical Competency Tracking System training
• Senior Project Showcase Day
• "No Child Left Behind" on -line course
P332
School Department
• Presentation of "Legal Issues for Teachers" by attorney
• Safe Schools presentation by Massachusetts State Troopers
Products
• Professional Learning Groups member list
• "How Full Is Your Bucket" activity sheet
• Vocational Technical Competency Tracking System (VTCTS) - Departmental
competency lists
• High Schools That Work Student Assessment Report
• High Schools That Work Teacher Survey Report
• High Schools That Work Technical Review Visit a- presentation/report
• "Legal Issues for Teachers" informational packet
• "No Child Left Behind - Basics for Teachers" Certificate
• NEASC Five Year Focus Visit Report
• High Schools That Work Summer Conference Participant
Follow -up Report
_Summer Enrichment Program
Approximately 80 students from Grades 10, 11 and 12 participated in the Summer
Enrichment Program. This program offers support to those students needing additional review in
preparation for their MCAS retest. This year, we also offered support to those students in Grade 9
seeking additional assistance in preparing for their first attempt on the tenth grade MCAS to take
place in the upcoming school year.
Students were engaged in MCAS Mathematics and English Language Arts preparation and
team- building activities while participating in field trips to the historic site of the Saugus Ironworks,
a visit to the Peabody Essex Museum in Salem, and the [MAX 3D 'Theater in Reading. Funding for
this program was provided by the Academic Support Department of the Commonwealth of
Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.
Summer Transition Program
It was our pleasure to serve over 1.90 members of the Class of 2012 as part of the eighth
season of the Summer Transition Program. These incoming ninth graders participated in academic
programs in mathematics, focusing on solving problems through the use of graphing calculators,
and in English language arts, involving autobiographical essays, poetry and other writing
assignments dealing with social issues. Career technical areas explored by the students included:
Automotive Technology, Auto Body, Baking, Cosmetology, Drafting, Graphics, Electrical Metal
Fabrication.
As in the past, an English immersion program was also conducted to assist second language
students in transitioning from middle school to our career /technical high school. New to the
-program this year, the Career Center offered students an opportunity to evaluate their interests,
skills and work values on the Kuder website. This information, along with discussions on the
Exploratory Program and shop selection process, encouraged students to begin evaluating their
career options. Also new this year, the English Language Arts classes piloted a new web -based
essay writing program called "Writing Roadmap" to assist students with their essay writing
assignments. Funding for these programs was provided by the Federal legislation of Title 1, Special
Education, Title V, and the Carl D. Perkins Occupational Education grants.
P333
School Department
This year, the Academic Enrichment Program supported over 40 10th, 1 lth and 12th grade
students in their efforts to improve their academic skills with the hopes of increasing their MCAS
scores. These students, capably supported by five veteran teachers and directed by Ms. Sarah
White, voluntarily participated in the program and received support in Mathematics, Social Studies,
English and team building skills. Each week had a specific theme that was supported by all areas of
the program. An end of the week field trip to a related site helped tie the daily lessons together.
This program continues to provide the type of support that has enabled Northeast students to reach
new heights in MCAS achievement. These programs were fully funded by grants from the
Massachusetts Department of Education.
Support Services
The Northeast Guidance Department staff offers support counseling through individual and
group counseling and specialized workshops and presentations. All faculty guidance counselors are
certified as school adjustment counselors and have either social work or school psychology {
backgrounds to equip them to handle the wide range of student issues that come forth. One school ( .
adjustment counselor is bilingual (Spanish - speaking). A School Psychologist supports the
counseling staff, provides psychological testing, supports the special education program, and
maintains a small individual and group case load. In addition, two career counselors and a career
teacher provide career awareness and career development services to all students. The career
counselors provide specialized support to students enrolled in non - traditional vocational areas.
r'
Support groups are established each year based on student needs. School adjustment
counselors may establish teen issues group in each grade to support students who have difficulties (.
with peer issues. An anger management group that is linked to the discipline system is offered by
the school psychologist in an effort to. provide students with an understanding of their own anger,
and an opportunity to develop new tools to use to manage anger more appropriately. t,
Support groups for pregnant and parenting teens, substance abusers, grieving students,
Latino students, Asian students, gay students and others have all been offered at different times
depending on need and student interest. Individual counseling with students requires that school { '
adjustment counselors coordinate with doctors, psychiatrists, outside therapists, social workers and
counselors, court personnel, police and others.
The Peer Mentoring Program provides educational assistance to students having difficulty ( '
with one or more academic subjects. Students who have been successful in specific subject areas
and who have participated in training volunteer their time to assist others in the Library two
afternoons per week. The mentoring program is designed to supplement after school assistance .
provided by the academic and vocational teachers. The program benefits go beyond the student
achievement as the relationships formed by the mentors and students help to break down barriers
between different grade and age groups and develop friendships that would not have had a chance
to form. A Math teacher with other teachers offering support and assistance coordinates the
mentoring program.
Career counseling and the college application process are a large part of all of the
counselors' roles but specialized support is provided by the two career counselors and a career
teacher. The newly developed Career Center is the focal area for a well planned four year career
development program that prepares all Northeast students for their individually chosen career paths.
The curriculum focuses on career assessment, career information and requirements, interviewing
P334
r�
School Department
skills, portfolios and resume preparation. By providing assessments to evaluate skills, interests and
work values, the career counselors assist freshmen in their vocational selection process, and upper
class students with linkages to post - secondary education and employment opportunities.
The career counselors provide specialized support to those students who are enrolled in
career areas that are considered non - traditional for their gender. Through the provision of support
groups, specialized presentations and field trips, students are prepared to understand the benefits of
non- traditional choices, and to appropriately handle any difficulties that they might confront.
Special workshops and presentations are offered through the year for different groups of
students. Each year, all freshmen participate in -group workshops focusing on harassment and
bullying and gender equity issues. Large group assemblies and presentations have been offered
focusing on substance abuse, drunk driving, teen dating violence, tolerance, character building and
others.
Grants
Perkins Act Allocation Grant Program — Secondary, Fund Code: 400
The purpose of this federal grant program is to assist school districts in improving secondary
programs that meet the definition of career and technical education under the Carl D. Perkins Career
and Technical Education Improvement Act of 2005 P.L.109 -270 (Perkins IV). Perkins IV
allocation funds must be used in accordance with Perkins IV and the Manual. Required and
permissive allocation fund uses are identified in the Massachusetts Perkins IV Manual. A portion of
allocation funds must be used for professional development.
Perkins -Equipment and Instructional Materials, Fund Code: 409
The purpose of this federal competitive grant is to provide fiends to purchase up -to -date
equipment and instructional materials for career /vocational technical education programs at the
secondary level. Grant funds must be used to purchase up -to -date equipment and instructional
materials for career /vocational technical education programs at the secondary level. These funds
were used in the Dental Assisting Program.
f Title I. Part A. Fund Code: 305:
Title I, as reauthorized under the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001, provides resources to
local school districts to assist low achieving students in high poverty schools to meet the state's
challenging academic standards. Funds may be used to provide academic, instructional and support
services for eligible students, professional development activities for staff, support for parent
involvement activities, and the purchase of appropriate supplies and materials.
The priorities of Title I are to strengthen the core programs in schools and provide academic
and/or support services to low achieving students at the preschool, elementary, middle and high
school levels in support of NCLB goals; provide programs based on scientifically -based research
that enable participating students to achieve the learning standards of the State curriculum
frameworks, elevate significantly the quality of instruction by providing staff with substantial
opportunities for professional development, and involve parents in the development of and
participation in the program, activities and procedures for parents and students to improve student
achievement.
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School Department
Title II, Part A• Improving Educator Ouality, Fund Code: 140
The purpose of this federal grant program is to increase student achievement through
comprehensive district initiatives that focus on the preparation, training, recruitment and retention
of highly qualified educators. These initiatives should be aligned with Massachusetts' reform
efforts and should help districts meet the NCLB goals and requirements for highly qualified
teachers, instructional paraprofessionals in Title I targeted assistance and school wide programs,
and high - quality professional development. The goal is to improve the overall quality of all
educators, including administrators, within the district.
Title II, Part D• Enhancing Education Through Technology, Fund Code: 160
Title II Part D: This federal grant program is intended to help school districts improve
student achievement through the use of technology in their schools, and encourages high - quality
professional development that uses research -based instructional strategies to integrate technology
effectively into the instruction. At least 25% of the grant funds must be used for ongoing high -
quality technology professional development for teachers, Principals, administrators and school
Library Mnedia personnel to further the use of technology in the classroom or Library Media
Centers. Other uses of grant funding include allowing school districts to participate in MassONE
online professional development, and using technology effectively to increase communication with
parents and promote parental involvement.
Title IV, Part A• Safe and Drug -Free Schools and Communities (SDFSQ Fund Code: 331
The purpose of this federal grant is to support programs that prevent violence in and around
schools, prevent illegal use of alcohol, tobacco and drugs, involve parents and communities, and
coordinate with related federal, State, school and community efforts and resources to foster a safe
and drug -free learning environment that supports student achievement. This grant funded the
"Aggressor, Victim, Bystander Program" for all freshmen.
Title V: Innovative Programs, Fund Code: 302
This federal Innovative Program formula grant supports education reform efforts, innovation
based on scientific research, the purchase of instructional, library and media materials, and the
implementation of programs to improve student, teacher and school performance. It provides for a
continuing source of innovation and educational improvement, including support programs to
provide library services and instructional and media materials.
Academic Support Services Allocation Grant - Summer, Fund Code: 625
The goal of this State funded grant program is to enhance academic support services needed
to meet the Competency Determination required for high school graduation for students in the
Classes of 2003 -2011 who have performed in the warning/failing (Level 1) or needs improvement
(Level 2) categories on their most recent English Language Arts and/or Mathematics MCAS or
retests. Summer programs may serve students in the Class of 2012 transitioning into high school
who have .scored at Levels l and/or 2 on their most recent English Language Arts and /or
Mathematics MCAS.
These services are to supplement currently funded local, State and federal programs. (Level
1 on the MCAS tests (warning/failing category) = score of less than 220. Level 2 on the MCAS tests
(needs improvement category) = score between 220 and 238. The other two WAS categories are
Level 3 (Proficient) with a score between 240 -258 and Level 4 (Advanced) with a score between
260 -280).
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School Department
Summer Academic Support Enhancement Grant - Fund Code: 625 -B
To develop and pilot Educational Proficiency Plans (EPPs) for students in Classes of 2010-
2012 who have not scored at the proficiency level on their most recent ELA and/or Mathematics
MCAS. The purpose of these State supplementary Summer programs is to enhance academic
support in English Language Arts (ELA) and Mathematics for students in the classes of 2010 -2012
who have not scored at the proficiency level on their most recent ELA and/or Mathematics MCAS
in order to help these students meet the Competency Determination for a high school diploma.
Programs will create, modify or use existing career /college models that address the requirements of
the Educational Proficiency Plan (EPP) for students in the Classes of 2010 -2012 and beyond and
pilot these templates with eligible students.
Federal Special Education Entitlement, Fund Code: 240
The purpose of this federal entitlement grant program is to provide funds to ensure that
eligible students with disabilities receive a free and appropriate public education that includes
special education and related services designed to meet their individual needs. The priority is to
serve eligible students with special education services and activities deemed essential for student
success in school. Services and activities must ensure compliance with State special education laws
and regulations and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act - 2004 (IDEA - 2004).
Special Education - Proaram Improvement, Fund Code: 274
The. purpose of this federal grant program is to fund professional development activities that
will help to improve the skills and capacity of educators to meet the diverse needs of students with
disabilities. The priorities of this grant program are to advance the skills of educators involved with
students with disabilities through high - quality, sustained and intensive professional development
activities, and through district -based induction and mentoring programs.
Special Assistance: Special Education Program Review Preparation, Fund Code 256
The purpose of this grant is to provide federal special education funds to assist public school
districts, charter schools and Department of Elementary and Secondary Education approved private
special education schools in preparing for a scheduled Special Education Program Review that will
determine compliance with State and federal special education requirements.
Special Education: Electronic Portfolios for MCAS Alternate Assessment. Fund Code: 242
This federally funded grant program will support the use of computerized electronic
portfolios for the collection of work samples, data on student performance, and audio /video clips to
complete and submit student portfolios for the MCAS Alternate Assessment (MCAS -Alt). In
addition, it will support the training of teachers in the application of this technology.
Secondary School Reading Implementation Grant, Fund Code: 267 -A
This federal grant program is intended to support middle schools, high schools and
vocational schools interested in continuing to develop a school wide approach to improve reading
achievement that includes the involvement of all professional and paraprofessional staff, including
staff working with special populations, reading, across the content areas, multiple intervention
programs for struggling readers targeted to student needs, professional development for all teachers
and paraprofessionals, adequate time provided in the school schedule for reading' instruction,
assessment that drives instruction, a variety of flexible grouping patterns, and leadership structures
that provide ongoing support and guidance.
P337
Summer Programs
Northeast Metro Tech Summer Programs enjoyed
inception in 1988. Over the years, both the Summer
experienced remarkable growth. This year, the Summer
combined.
School Department
another successful campaign since its
School and Computer Program have
programs serviced nearly 400 students
The Northeast Summer School serviced high school students in six different academic areas
including Math, Science, English, Social Studies, Language and Vocational Related. The goals of
promoting a positive learning atmosphere, retention and promotion, as well as providing skills to
assist each student at the next grade level, are paramount objectives behind the philosophical make-
up of our Summer school.
Our Summer program also continued to expand into the vocational enriclunent and
certification program areas, including Dental Assisting, Dental Radiology and Basic Welding.
These programs were not only extremely successful but give both students and adults an
opportunity to explore and begin new careers.
The popular Northeast Summer Computer Program completed a successful 20 "' year. Its
objective of making learning fun had the counselors teach the participants skills that they can use
during their school year while enjoying doing it. These programs can help strengthen reading and
Math skills, and expand their general knowledge of the computer. Continued use of "SmartBoards"
technology along with some outstanding Power Point presentations were an exciting part of this
year's computer program along with swimming and diving instruction.
Adult Education
Our goal is to provide as many educational services as possible to the 350,000 residents of
the Northeast Metropolitan Regional Vocational School District. In pursuing this goal, the Adult
Education staff maximizes utilization of the Northeast facilities, offering an extensive selection of
stimulating and practical programs Monday through Saturday during the school year and Monday
through Friday during the Summer months.
Northeast offers a State Approved Auto Damage Appraisal Program, as well as
Journeyman's and Masters Programs in Electrical, Plumbing, Sheet Metal, Carpentry and Gas
Fitting. As the Number One apprentice training center in New England, we guide hundreds of
young men and women annually as they prepare for their journeyman or masters license in their
trade. For the many senior citizens enrolled, we offer a wide variety of programs designed to satisfy
their interest in crafts, hobbies, physical fitness, etc.
During the 2008 school year, the Adult Education agenda is the focus on strengthening the
core curriculum and frameworks of our trade based areas. This is being accomplished by the
standardization of each of the trade area curriculum. Our intent is to guarantee that all of our adult
education students are being exposed to identical high quality career tech education in each of our
classes.
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School Department
2008 Graduates
The 2007 -08 school year represents the 37th class to matriculate at Northeast Metropolitan
Regional Vocational School. Northeast graduated 276 students in the Class of 2008.
Breakdown of graduates' status after graduation are as follows:
Employed - 127 Attending 4 year college - 63
Entering Military Service - 3 Attending 2 year college - 71
Other - 3 Apprentice school - 9
* It should be noted that 52% of the graduating class went on to further their education
either in a two or four year college or in an apprentice program. 273 members of the
graduating class either entered military service, are employed or seeking further
education - that figure represents 99% of the Class of 2008.
Special Needs Enrollment
Special Needs enrollment for the 2007 -08 school year continued to represent a fair share of
the total school enrollment with students. The 333 Special Needs students represent 27% of the
school population.
District School Committee Election of Officers
At the Annual Organizational Meeting of the District School Committee on January 10,
2008, the following members were re- elected Officers of the Northeast District School Committee:
i Chairman
Deborah P. Davis of Woburn
Vice Chairman
Henry A. Hooton, of Melrose
Secretary
Peter A. Rossetti, Jr. of Saugus
Treasurer
Paul L. Sweeney of North Reading
Assoc. Treasurer
Anthony E. DeTeso of Stoneham
Both Maura A. Looney of Reading and Robert J. Capezza of Winthrop decided not to run
for re- election November 4, 2008.
Conclusion
As Northeast celebrates its 39th year of Vocational /Technical Excellence to its 12 member
communities, its aim is to continue to offer the latest in vocational /technical and academic
education by maintaining a high level of performance. This high level of performance also
encompasses continued improvement in academic achievement with regard to MCAS. The
Northeast Class of 2008 had a 99% pass rate of the MCAS Test by graduation.
Northeast is continually updating curriculum and continues to offer MCAS Enrichment
Classes for those students in need of additional preparation for the MCAS which now includes
Science beginning with the Class of 2010. Northeast also provides a Summer Enrichment Program
for the incoming freshmen.
P339
School Department
The school continues to offer students the finest education with which to build a successful t
career through the latest in equipment, software and technology offered in all vocational programs t.
no matter which career path they have chosen. (.
The Career Center which was added last year is where students have access to laptops to
develop career plans, learn of all business aspects of their industries, prepare comprehensive
portfolios, resumes and college plans with the assistance of our Career /Guidance Counselors has
Northeast a step ahead of all other schools in Career Technical Education.
Evidence of our past success is reflected in the students who have graduated from Northeast i
Metro Tech. The Alumnus stories of success and their readiness and willingness to help school
officials by speaking at recruiting sessions at the local schools as well as recruiting graduates for
employment is proof of their dedication to Northeast. Northeast currently has 20 alumni employed
at the school. Testimonials as to the success of our graduates continue to be received, which makes
us proud to have contributed in some small way to their accomplishments.
Once again, 1 am proud to have represented Reading as a member of the Northeast
Metropolitan Regional Vocational District School Committee not only to serve as the guardian of
funds allocated from the community to this educational institution but also to assist in and provide
counsel to the school in maintaining the highest standards of educational excellence possible.
Respectfully submitted,
Maura A. Looney
Northeast School Committee (.
Reading, Representative
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NORTHEAST METROPOLITAN REGIONAL VOCATIONA SCHOOL DIS'T'RICT
COMPARISON OF ASSESSMENTS
BUDGET
BUDGET
VARIANCE
VARIANCE
FY2007
FY2008
$
%
GROSS BUDGET
$17,090,302
$18,347,926
$1,257,624
7.3587%
LESS REVENUES
Chapter 70 Aid
$6,463,689
$7,065,299
$601,610
9.31%
Transportation
$580,972
$580,932
($40)
-0.01%
TOTAL. REVENUES
$7,044,661
$7,646,231
$601,570
8.54%
NET ASSESSMENTS
$10,045,641
$10,701,695
$656,054
6.53%
CHELSEA
$825,626
$684,019
($141,607)
- 17.15%
MALDEN
$1,342,296
$1,530,571
$188,275
14.03%
MELROSE
$606,099
$759,570
$153,471
25.32%
NO. READING
$296,835
$450,535
$153,700
51.78%
READING
$219,035
$295,877
$76,842
35.08%
REVERE
$1,814,005
$1,738,097
($75,908)
4.18%
SAUGUS
$1,871,034
$1,864,020
($7,014)
-0.37%
STONEHAM
$432,017
$592,087
$160,070
37.05%
WAKEFIELD
$708,723
$837,872
$129,149
18.22%
�.
WINCHESTER
$88,548
$115,289
$26,741
30.20%
WINTHROP
$396,888
$477,299
$80,411
20.26%
WOBURN
$IA44.535
$1.356.459
($88,076)
- 6.10%
!.
TOTAL
$10,045,641
$10,701,695
$656,054
6.53%
STUDENTS
STUDENTS
PERCENT OF
FY2007
FY2087
VARIANCE
CONTRIBUTION
CHELSEA
221
203
-18
16.74917%
MALDEN
215
238
23
19.63696%
MELROSE
56
64
8
5.28053%
NO. READING
28
40
12
3.30033%
READING
19
26
7
2.14521%
{
REVERE
241
242
1
19.96700%
SAUGUS
146
137
-9
11.30363%
STONEHAM
34
46
12
3.79538%
WAKEFIELD
59
65
6
5.36304%
WINCHESTER
7
9
2
0.74257%
WINTHROP
41
45
4
3.71287%
WOBURN
99
97
-2
8.0033 0%
TOTAL
1166
1212
46
100.00000%
/.,.
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Northeast Metropolitan Regional Vocational School District
Combined Balance Sheet — All Fund Types and Account Groups
June 30, 2008
i
Assets
Cash
Accounts Receivable
i Due from Other Funds
Fixed Assets
r Total Assets
Liabilities
Accounts Payable
Claims Incurred Not Reported
Due to Other Funds
Accrued Salary
Accrued Sick and Vacation
Total Liabilities
Fund Equity
Investment in General Fixed Assets
r "und Balances:
Reserve for Encumbrances
Reserve for Waterline
Reserve for Immunization Program
Reserve for Insurance
Undesignated
Total Fund Equity
Total Liabilities & Fund Equity
Reserve for
Fiduciary
Governmental Fund Types Capital Project
Fund Type
Special Capital
Trust and
General Revenue Project
Agency
$ 1,937,788 $- $346,630 $173,184
- 189,332 - -
29,161 - - -
$ 1,966,949 $ 189,332 $ 346,630 S 173,184
Account Groups
General Fixed
Assets
6,646,936
$ 6,646,936
$ 170,381
$ 9,573
$ - $ -
-
-
- 420,062 -
-
29.161
- - -
810,737
86,582
- - -
283,630
-
$1,264,748
$ 125,316
$420,062
$ -
$ -
$ - $ - $ 6,646,936
156,042
-
- - -
-
-
346,630 - -
5,500
-
- - -
-
-
- (390,406) -
540,659
64,016
- 143,528 -
702,201
6016
346,630 246 878 6,646,936
$ 1,966,949
$189,332
$ 346,630 $ 173,184 $ 6,646,936
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P343
Northeast Metropolitan Regional Vocational School District
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Special Revenue Funds
June 30, 2008
Undesignated Fund Balance
Amount
Adult Education
$(82,609)
Building Usage
59,850
Athletics
558
School Choice
31,417
Grants
45,883
State Wards
20,192
Cafeteria
(77,495)
�.
Auto Body
15,928
Auto Tech
9,584
Shining Knights
1,914
( .
Day Care
17,417
Culinary
1,339
Cosmetology
10,697
Graphics
2,209
Carpentry
6,431
Metal Fabrication
701
Total
6$ 4,016
Northeast Metropolitan Regional Vocational School District
Trust and Agency fund
June 30, 2008
Undesignated Fund Balance
Amount
f
Student Activity
$ 95,948
Scholarship
47,580
-
Total
$ 143,528
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P344
APPOINTED AND ELECTED TOWN BOARDS, COMMITTEES & COMMISSIONS
(December 18, 2008)
Title
Term
Org. Term Appt'g.
1?.ate Exp. Auth.
Animal Control Appeals Committee
3 3 yrs. BOS
Vacancy ( ) 2009
Tina Ohlson 200 Forest Street (08) 2011
James Bonazoli 100 Grove Street 06 2010
Audit Committee
7 3 yrs.
BOS
John Miles
Andrew Grimes, Chr.
103 Oak Street
(04)
2010
FinCom
George V. Hines
35 Grand Street
(08)
2011
FinCom
Stephen Herrick
9 Dividence Road
(05)
2009
BOS
Chuck Robinson
81 Prospect Street
(06)
2011
Sch. Com.
Lisa Gibbs
9 Priscilla Road
(04)
2009
Sch. Com.
Phil Pacino
5 Washington St.
(03)
2011
RMLD
Camille Anthony
26 Orchard Park Drive
04
2010
BOS
Aquatics Advisory Board 3 3 yrs. BbS & Rec. Com.
Lois Margeson 61 Putnam Road (99) 2009
Vacancy ( ) 2010 Rec. Com.
Vacancy 2011 SOS
Board of Appeal s
5 + 2 Associates 3 yrs.
BOS
John Miles
532 West Street
(08)
2011
Robert A. Redfern
54 Prospect Street
(01)
2009
John A. Jarema
797 Main Street
(78)
2010
Paul Dustin, Chairman
3 Orchard Park Dr.
(03)
2009
Clark W. Petschek, V. Chr.
659 Haverhill Street
(06)
2011
Peter Tedesco (Associate)
15 Intervale Terrace
(06)
2010
Jeffrey D. Perkins Associate
1 Coolid a Road
0$
2011
fl 7a.
-
Ralph Colorusso, V. Chr. 31 Enos Circle (00) April' 10
Francis Golden, Chairman 5 Wells Road (07) April' 1.1
Robert I. Nordstrand Secreta 384 Franklin Street (§9)__ A ril'09
BOS — Board of Selectmen; T. Mgr. — Town Manager; Mod. —.Town Moderator; B.V. of 0. — By virtue of office;
Sch. Com. — School Committee; FChr. — Finance Committee Chairman; E. by E. — Elected by Employees. *All
terms expire June 30 of year noted, unless indicated otherwise.
P345
Title #POsittons Term
Orig.
Term )(Opt 9.
Harry Simmons
Board of Ybr :Trustees , '
bate
EBQ: Aiuth.
Board of C.emeter Truk n —,: 6,
S rs.
93 Grand Street
BOS
Mary R. Vincent
17 Indiana Avenue
(94)
2009
Olive B. Hecht
73 Martin Road
(08)
2011
William C. Brown, Sec.
28 Martin Road
(96)
2009
Janet Baronian, Chairman
75 Mill Street
(99)
2011
Ronald Stortz, V. Chr.
538 Summer Ave.
(04)
2010
Elise M. Cire na
48 Pearl Street
07
2010
Board of Health 3 3 yrs. BOS
Colleen Seferian, V. Chr. 56 Vine Street (99) 2011
Barbara A. Meade, Chairman 11 Ash Hill Road (01) 2009
David Sin er 66 Prospect St. _____CO3 2010
I
4 -2 from each major party
3 yrC 80S.
Harry Simmons
Board of Ybr :Trustees , '
6 3 ys�
Gloria R. Hulse
;'Elected:
Victoria V. Yablonsky, Sec.
93 Grand Street
(02)
April't I
David P. Hutchinson, V. Chr.
41 Harvard Street
(05)
April' 11
Susan Hopkins Axelson, Chr.
300 Charles St.
(03)
April'09
Richard H. Curtis
15 [lolly Road
(07)
April' 10
Cherrie Dubois
9 Meadow Brook Lane
(07)
April' 10
Karyn Storti, Chairman
31 Green St.
03
April'09
Board of ,Registrars
4 -2 from each major party
3 yrC 80S.
Harry Simmons
17 Pine Ridge Road
(06) 2011
Gloria R. Hulse
107 Sanborn Lane
(92) 2009
Krissandra Holmes
77 Redgate Lane
(06) 2010
Cher 1 A. Johnson
177 Pine Ride Road
96 Indef. B.V. of O.
Board of Selectmen
S yrs.
sCeet
Stephen Goldy, Chairman
42 Berkeley Street
(06)
April' 10
Ben Tafoya, Vice Chairman
40 Oak Street
(05)
April'] I
James E. Bonazoli, Secretary
100 Grove Street
(05)
April' I I
Camille W. Anthony
26 Orchard Park Drive.
(94)
April'09
Richard W. Schubert
119 Winthrop Ave.
01
Aril' 10
BOS — Board of Selectmen; T. Mgr. —Town Manager; Mod. —Town Moderator; B.V. of O. -- By virtue of office;
Sch. Com. — School Committee; FChr. — Finance Committee Chairman; E. by E. — Elected by Employees. *All
terms expire June 30 of year noted, unless indicated otherwise.
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Titln, #Positions :' ifni
Orin.
')�'erm Appt'g.
Ronald D'Addario
Date
I Audi.
p/ *��• ■} _
B''1�.• Co� ■!!i!tee .
- ,j[ �ij t'
J ..�' ✓t }D.3,
A 1.
S I1 (,. ,t �o�i4..
Philip B. Pacino, Chairman
5 Washington St., Unit D6
(86)
2010
Dolores S. Carroll, Secretary
37 Johanna Drive
(87)
2011
John H. Russell
91 Spruce Road
(91)
2009
George A. Theophanis
86 West Street
(78)
2011
Ronald T. O'Keefe, Jr.
44 Batchelder Road
06
2009
Bylaw Coiarnittee Appointment Committee 3 yrs.
Philip B. Pacino 5 Washington St., Unit D6 Chr. Bylaw Com.
Stephen Goldy 42 Berkeley Street Chr. BOS
Alan Foulds 9 Ide Street Town Moderator
Celebration Committee
5 3 Yes.
Ronald D'Addario
Kurt Habel
832 Main Street
(99)
2009
BOS
Rita Robertson
9 Elm Street
(02)
2011
Mod.
Mark Cardono, Chairman
26 Boswell Road
(99)
2011
Historical
Bob McLaughlin
14 Galvin Circle
(02)
2010
Library
Everett Blodgett
99 Prescott Street
00
2009
Sch. Com.
Cites for Climate Protection.
Program Cnrumitt6e
Ronald D'Addario
97 Summer Ave.
(06)
2009
Michele Benson, Chairman
128 Eastway
(06)
2010
Gina Snyder
11 Jadem Terrace
(06)
2010
Tracy Sopchak
364 Franklin Street
(06)
2011
Stephanie Anderberg, Sec.
181 Lowell Street
(06)
2011
Joan 66egel (Associate)
3 Highland Street
(07)
2009
Ray Porter (Associate)
529 Franklin Street
(07)
2009
David L. Williams (Associate)
258 Haverhill Street
(08)
2009
Bing Xia Associate
169 Summer Avenue
08
2009
Commissioners oft-rust Funds 3 3, yrs. 1805
Elizabeth W. Klepeis, Chr. 68 Tennyson Road (05) 2011
Neil Cohen 51 Red Gate Lane (07) 2009
John J. Daly, V. Chr. 163 Woburn Street (95) 2010
Camille Anthony 26 Orchard Park Drive 2011
Nancy Heffernan 16 Lowell Street Indef. BVO
BOS — Board of Selectmen; T. Mgr. — Town Manager; Mod. — Town Moderator; B.V. of O. — By virtue of office;
Sch. Com. — School Committee; FChr. — Finance Committee Chairman; E. by E. — Elected by Employees. *All
terms expire June 30 of year noted, unless indicated otherwise.
P347
Title #Positions Term
Orig.
Term App f g.
BOS
William Hecht, V. Chr.
Date.
Exn., Auth.
Community Planning &
Tina Ohlson
200 Forest Street
(08)
D'evelo ment Commission
5 .3-yrs.
31 Cape Cod Ave.
BOS
Joseph E. Patterson
18 Granger
(08)
2011
Vacancy
Vacancy
( )
2009
Nicholas Safina, Secretary
221 South Street
(06)
2010
John Weston
10 Winthrop Ave.
(07)
2010
David B. Tuttle, Chairman
27 Heather Drive
(06)
2011
George Katsoufis Associate
9 Berkeley Street
06
2009
Conservation Commission
7 3 yrs.
2010
BOS
William Hecht, V. Chr.
73 Martin Road
(03)
2011
Tina Ohlson
200 Forest Street
(08)
2011
Douglas N. Greene
31 Cape Cod Ave.
(00)
2009
Mark Wetzel, Chairman
163 County Road
(05)
2010
Vacancy
( )
2009
Annika Scanlon
3 Copeland Avenue
(06)
2010
Barbara Stewart
52 Countv Road
O6
2009
Constables
Up to 4 3 yrs.
2010
BOS
Thomas H. Freeman
P.O. Box 825
(93)
2009
Sally M. Hoyt
221 West Street
(72)
2011
John Delia Paolera
533 Summer Avenue
(07)
2011
Alan Ulrich
55 Hancock Street
04
2010
Frank Driscoll
Joe Veno, Chairman
Gail LaPointe, Town Acct.
Richard Foley
Daniel B. Seferian V. Chr,
7 Ordway Terrace
11 Rock St., N. Reading
16 Lowell Street
68 Tennyson Road
56 Vine Street
2011
E. by E.
2010
E. by E.
Indef.
B.V. of O.
12/11
BOS
2009
Board
BOS — Board of Selectmen; T. Mgr. — Town Manager; Mod. — Town Moderator; B.V. of O. — By virtue of office;
Sch. Com. — School Committee; FChr. — Finance Committee Chairman; E. by E. -- Elected by Employees. *All
terms expire June 30 of year noted, unless indicated otherwise.
P348
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Title �#Ebs' dons Term -
rt
Coutteil.on A In - : LO:. ' 3 'rs.
7 7, Or g. 'erfn 476 .
, taw i
``105
Margaret Havey
23 Van Norden Road
(06)
2009
Steve Oston, Secretary
68 Sturges Road
(07)
2010
Sally M. Hoyt, V. Chr.
221 West Street
(04)
2010
Marguerite Bosnian
46 Putnam Road
(06)
2009
Carol Patterson
128 Grove Street
(03)
2009
Carol Oniskey
7 Strawberry Hill Lane
(08)
2011
Carole N. Scrima
709 Gazebo Circle
(04)
2010
Barbara A. Powers
25 Belmont Street
(00)
2009
Stacy Bertocchi, Chairman
250 High Street
(05)
2011
George E. Lonergan, Jr.
One Summit Drive ##69
(08)
2011
Gina Nelson (Assoc.)
6 Hurlburt Road
X08
2009
Cultural Couneil
'� 3` : s. 6 max.
;
SOS;
Lorraine Horn, Treasurer
99 Beaver Road
(06)
2010
Vicky Schubert, Secretary
119 Winthrop Avenue
(06)
2009
Margaret E. Caouette
1 I Field Pond Drive
(08)
2011
Susan G. Fay
56 Grey Coach Road
(08)
2011
Elizabeth Whitelam, Chr.
7 Gilmore Avenue
(05)
2010
Alice Armstrong
340 Summer Avenue
(08)
2011
Kathleen Kelly
36 Grove Street
03
2009
Custodian of Soldier's
And Sailor's Graves 1 up to 5 yrs.
Francis P Driscoll 7 Ordway Terrace (92) 2010 BOS
Economic Deyelorrnent C or�tn`rttee.' , 3 yrs.$Qs
;
t d
Russell Graham
68 Maple Ridge
(06)
2011
John Russell
91 Spruce Road
(06)
2009
Sheila Clarke, V. Chr.
536 Haverhill St.
(06)
2011
Leslie McGonagle, Secretary
140 Pine Ridge Road
(06)
2010
Meghan Young - Tafoya, Chr.
40 Oak Street
(06)
2010
Sharon Peterson (Associate)
25 Holly Road
(08)
2009
Michelle Ferullo (Associate)
46 Howard Street
(08)
2009
George A. Rio (Associate)
11 Estate Lane
(08)
2009
Michelle R. Williams Assoc.
31 Melbourne Avenue
07
2009
BOS — Board of Selectmen; T. Mgr. — Town Manager; Mod. — "rown Moderator; B.V. of O. — By virtue of office;
Sch. Corn. — School Committee; FChr. — Finance Committee Chairman; E. by E. -- Elected by Employees. *All
terms expire June 30 of year noted, unless indicated otherwise.
P349
Title
Ft�n nce Co I mWee
' #FosT s Term Org, 'i'erm Apt'g,
George V. Hines, Chairman 35 Grand Street
(05)
2011
59 Azalea Circle
Andrew Grimes, V. Chairman 103 Oak Street
(00)
2009
26 Boswell Road
Barry Berman
54 Longview
(07)
2011
(96)
David Greenfield
192 Woburn Street
(05)
2011
2009
John Tartgney
15 Priscilla Road
(08)
2009
Angela Binda (Associate)
Matthew Wilson
385 Summer Ave.
(07)
2010
9 Dividence Road
Thomas White
46 Grand Street
(07)
2010
(05)
Harold S. Torman
77 Sunnyside Ave.
(03)
2010
Marsie K. West
3 Whitehall Lane
03
2009
FinCom Appointment Corn tnittee 3 1 yr.
Alan E. Foulds, Chairman 9 Ide Street Indef Moderator
George V. Hines 35 Grand Street Indef Fin. Chr.
Stephen Goldy 42 Berkeley Street Indef. Chr. BOS
Historical Commission
5 + Associates rs.:"
BoS
Virginia M. Adams
59 Azalea Circle
(78)
2011
Mark Cardono
26 Boswell Road
(98)
2010
Roberta M. Sullivan, Treasurer
76 Minot Street
(96)
2011
Kathryn Greenfield, Chr.
192 Woburn St.
(05)
2009
Sharlene Reynolds.Santo, Sec.
46 Wakefield St.
(99)
2010
Angela Binda (Associate)
10 Orchard Park Drive
(08)
2009
Karen Herrick (Associate)
9 Dividence Road
(05).
2009
Susan Patterson (Associate)
572 Haverhill Street
(05)
2009
Housing Authority
5 5 yrs.
BOS.
Kevin P. Mulvey
67 Whittier Road
(08)
2013
Karen Flammia, V. Chr.
19 Vista Ave.
(00)
2010
Mary E. Connors, Chairman
.52 Sanborn St. Apt. 103
(96)
2012
Diane Cohen, Treasurer
51 Redgate Lane
(04)
2011 State Appts.
Timothy Kelley
84 Woburn Street
96
2009
BOS — Board of Selectmen; T. Mgr. — Town Manager; Mod. -- Town Moderator, B.V. of O. — By virtue of office;
Sch. Cam. — School Committee; FChr. — Finance Committee Chairman; E. by E. --- Elected by Employees. *All
terms expire June 30 of year noted, unless indicated otherwise.
P350
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T_ %. #16a. itions Term '
Orig.
Term Ap eg
'Elected
Philip B. Pacino
Date . Exi) .'iith.
Human Relations
April 10
Ellen C. Kearns
2 Beaver Road
Advisory "Committee
7 3 As. .
Richard S. Hahn, Chairman
BOS
Margaret Soli
19 James Road
(01)
2011
Lori Hodin
385 Summer Avenue
(07)
2010
Karen Janowski (School)
30 Azalea Circle
(08)
2011
Paul Kelley, Secretary
56 Sunnyside Avenue
(01)
2009
Charles McDonald (BOS)
41 Canterbury Drive
(03)
2009
James Cormier (Police)
15 Union Street
(05)
2010
Nancy M. Najmi, Chairman
65 Marla Lane
(04)
2010
Monique Pillow Gnanaratnam
873 Main Street
(08)
2009
(Associate)
Randall Jones (Associate)
_ 1 Cross Street
07
2009
Landbank Committee 3 3 yrs. SOS
Vacancy YT �T 2011
Jeffrey Perkins, V. Chr. I Coolidge Road (08) 2010
Edward G. Smethurst, Chr. 86 Gleason Road 8$ 2009
MBTA Advisory Board 1 Indef. T. Mgr.
Bob LeLacheur 16 Lowell Street
Metropolitan Area
Planning Ctiuntil 1 + Alternate.' 3`yrs. r, . .
Steven Sadwick 138 Prospect Street (05) 2011
Vacanc Alternate (__ ) _ 2011
Alan Foulds 9 Ide Street April 09
Municipal Light Board
S 3, yrs.
'Elected
Philip B. Pacino
5 Washington St. Unit D6
(87)
April 10
Ellen C. Kearns
2 Beaver Road
(04)
April 10
Richard S. Hahn, Chairman
29 Buckingham Drive
(05)
April 09
Robert Soli, Secretary
19 James Road
(02)
April 11
Ma Ellen O'Neill, V. Chr.
125 Summer Ave.
(06)
April 09
BOS — Board of Selectmen; T. Mgr. —Town Manager; Mod.... Town Moderator; t3. v. of u. —by virtue or oniee,
Sch. Cam. — School Committee; FChr. — Finance Committee Chairman; E. by E. — Elected by Employees. *All
terms expire June 30 of year noted, unless indicated otherwise.
10A
Title #Positions Term Orig. Term Appt'g
Date Exp. Auth.
Mystic Valley Elder Services Inc. 2 3 yrs.
Dawn Foloupolos 16 Lowell Street 9/30/10 COA
Rheta C. McKinley _ 4 Elderberry Lane 211 9/30/09 BOS
NoXth 5ubirbah Planlung Council
2' yrs
, SOS
BOS '& School
yr
Ben Tafoya 40 Oak Street
(07)
2010
George Katsoufis (BOS Alt.) 9 Berkeley Street
(08)
2010
Vacancy
( )
2009 CPDC
Vacancy CPDC Alt.
Mary Anne Kozlowski
2009
RCTV Btiard..of Uiretors
2' yrs
°'
BOS '& School
Edward Smethurst
86 Gleason Road
(08)
2011 BOS
Chris Caruso
77 Hartshorn Street
(08)
2011 Sch, Com.
Reading le Arena Authority 1 3 yrs. BOS
George Hines 35 Grand Street (931 2011
RMLD Ci#Xz ix Advisory Board 1_ 3 yrs. BOS
Tracy Ellen So chak 364 Franklin Street 08 2011
Recreation Committee- 8 + 1 Scfi Cbm ' A1t 3 yrs
_S
Nancy Linn Swain
35 Minot Street
(03)
2009
Michael DiPetro, Chairman
23 Sanborn Lane
(04)
2010
Christopher Campbell
12 Overlook Road
(93)
2011 '
Mary Anne Kozlowski
16 Weston Road
(03)
2011
Francis Driscoll
7 Ordway Terrace
(04)
2010
Beth Claroni
32 Emerald Drive
(06)
2011 Seh. Cam.
Catherine R. Kaminer
37 Warren Avenue
(88)
2010
Mary Ellen Stolecki
33 Lewis Street
(00)
2009
John Winne, V. Chr.
29 Clover Circle
(97)
2009
Adam Chase (Associate)
8 Gardner Road
(08)
2009
Eric Hughes Associate
18 Small Lane
08
2009
BOS — Board of Selectmen; T. Mgr. - Town Manager; Mod. — I -own Moderator; 13.v, of U. — uy virtue of otnce;
Sch. Corn. — School Committee; FChr. — Finance Committee Chairman; E. by E. — Elected by Employees. *All
terms expire June 30 of year noted, unless indicated otherwise.
P352
TRIO:' #Fositaons 3_erm Tej0p, ATpi'g
T
Regional School District Committee. .1. rs _ Elected:
Vacancy ( ) Nov` 12
Rules Committee 8 lyr. - No more than 6 consecutive yrs. Prec. Mem.
Ronald T. O'Keefe (Prec. 1)
44 Batchelder Road
(08)
Peter G. Coumounduros (Prec. 2)
24 Smith Avenue
(01)
Francis P. Driscoll (Precinct 3)
7 Ordway Terrace
(08)
Glen M. Hartzler (Precinct 4)
119 West St.
(03)
Janice Jones (Precinct 5)
22 Mount Vernon St.
(08)
Ronald M. D'Addario (Prec. 6)
97 Summer Ave.
(08)
Denise D. Wyer (Precinct 7)
228 Forest Street
(08)
William C. Brown (Precinct 8)
28 Martin Road
(08)
SciiboI Committee
6 3 yes 1 t
> l cte'd
T. Mgr.
Margaret A. Campbell, Chr.
16 Lowell Street
2010
Karen T. Janowski
30 Azalea Circle
(08)
April 11
Christopher Caruso, V. Chr.
77 Hartshorn Street
(06)
April 09
David Michaud
54 Hanscom Ave.
(06)
April 09
Charles Robinson, Chairman
81 Prospect Street
(07)
April 10
Lisa Gibbs
9 Priscilla Road
(04)
April 11
Elaine L. Webb
309 Pearl St.
(03)
April 10
Sick Bank Committee 9 3 yrs.
Nancy Aberman
64 Middlesex Ave.
2009
T. Mgr.
Margaret A. Campbell, Chr.
16 Lowell Street
2010
T. Mgr.
Marie Ammer
16 Lowell Street
2011
T. Mgr.
Vacancy (Dispatcher)
15 Union Street
2011
Union
Peter Garchinsky (Police Sup.)
15 Union Street
2008
Union
Tom Ward (DPW)
16 Lowell Street
2009
Union
Peter Tassi
16 Lowell Street
2011
T. Mgr.
Pat Iapicca (Police Patrol)
15 Union Street
2008
Union
James D'Entremont En . /WTP
16 Lowell Street
2010
Union
BOS - Board of Selectmen; T. Mgr. - Town Manager; Mod. - Town Moderator; B.V. of O. - By virtue of office;
Sch. Cam. - School Committee; FChr. - Finance Committee Chairman; E. by E. - Elected by Employees. *All
terms expire June 30 of year noted, unless indicated otherwise.
P353
Title
#Positions Term
Orig.
Term Appt'g
George B. Perry, 11, Chairman '
230 Franklin Street
Date
Exp. Auth.
Telecommunications and Technology
37 Auburn Street
(02)
Advisory Committee
Thomas W. Connery
101 Beaver Road
(03)
2010
S :3 Yrs.
483 Franklin Street
BOS
Benjamin Ream
972 Main Street
(04)
2010
Douglas Cowell
958 Main St.
(99)
2011
Bill Cowie
110 Van Norden Road
(05)
2009
Vacancy
( )
2010
Scott Busnach
29 Gavin Circle
(08)
2011
Town Forest Committee
3 3 yrs.
BOS
George B. Perry, 11, Chairman '
230 Franklin Street
(76)
2009
Louis deBrigard .
37 Auburn Street
(02)
2011
Thomas W. Connery
101 Beaver Road
(03)
2010
Patrice A. Todisco (Associate)
483 Franklin Street
(08)
2009
Joan Hoyt (Associate)
89 Oakland Road
—(06)
2009
Trails Committee 5
3 yrs.
BOS
Thomas S. Gardiner, V. Chr.
182 Franklin Street
(08)
2009
Joan A. Hoyt, Chairman
89 Oakland Road
(08)
2010
Charles Donnelly Moran
32 Vale Road
(08)
2009
David Williams
117 Oak Street
(08)
2010
Alan Rosh
232 Van Norden Road
(08)
2011.
John E. Parsons (Associate)
3 C Street
(08)
2009
Susan Giacalone (Associate
9 Orchard Park Drive
08
2009
West Strieef H[storic Distiele Commissrop
5—. 3 yes. BOS
Rick Nazxaro, Secretary 11 Partridge Road (07) 2010
Susan Patterson, Chairman 572 Haverhill Street (05) 2010
Vacancy ( ) 2011
David Kruh 3 Wescroft Road (05) 2009
Vacancy 2009
BOS — Board of Selectmen; T. Mgr. — Town Manager; Mod. — Town Moderator; B. V, of 0. — By virtue of office;
Sch. Com. — School Committee; FChr. — Finance Committee Chairman; E. by E. — Elected by Employees. *All
terms expire June 30 of year noted, unless indicated otherwise.
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