HomeMy WebLinkAbout2018 Annual Report Town of
Reading
Massachusetts
6j
NCO
2018 Annual Report
OFRegO'y
m
2018 Annual Report
Table of Contents
r639:INCORQORP�
PAGE(S)
2018 YEAR IN REVIEW
Town Manager Annual Letter ............................................................... 4
Tableof Organization....................................................................................... 7
ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES DEPARTMENT
SelectBoard............................................................................................ 8
TownCounsel ................................................................................. 10
TownClerk .................................................................................... 11
Human Resources ............................................................................ 12
Technology & Operations ... ............................................................... 14
PUBLIC SERVICES DEPARTMENT
PlanningDivision ............................................................................. 16
Metro North Regional Housing Services Office (MNRHSO)........................... 17
Metropolitan Area Planning Council (MAPC) ......... .................................. 17
North Suburban Planning Council (NSPC) ............................................... 17
Conservation Division ....................................................................... 18
Historic District Commission ............................................................... 19
Historical Commission............................................................................. 19
Inspections Division & Zoning Board of Appeals ........................................ 22
Elder/Human Services Division ............................................................. 23
Health............................................................................................ 29
Recreation Division ........................................................................... 33
Veterans' Services Division ........................ ......................................... 34
Mystic Valley Elder Services ............................................................... 35
TrailsCommittee .............................................................................. 36
FINANCE DEPARTMENT
Assessing ........................................................................................ 38
Treasurer/Collector............................................................................. 39
General... ....................................................................................... 39
Board of Assessors ............................................................................ 41
2
PUBLIC SAFETY
FireDepartment ......................................................................................... 44
FireRoster..................................................................................... 51
PoliceDepartment ..................................................................... ....... 52
AnimalControl ............................................................................... 60
Parking Enforcement Officer ............................................................... 60
Public Safety Dispatch ......................................................................... 61
PoliceRoster .................................................................................. 62
Reading Coalition Against Substance Abuse (RCASA) ................................ 65
PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT
Director's Report......... ..................................................................... 70
Administration Division ..................................................................... 71
CemeteryDivision ............................................................................ 71
Custodian of Soldiers' and Sailors' Graves ............................................... 72
Engineering Division ........................................................................ 72
HighwayDivision ............................................................................ 79
Forestry Division: Tree Warden's Report ................................................ 80
ParksDivision ........................................................................................ 80
Water/Sewer Division......................................................................... 81
READING PUBLIC LIBRARY
Report .......................................................................................... 84
HOUSING AUTHORITY
Report .......................................................................................... 91
SCHOOL DEPARTMENT
School Committee Report ................................................................... 98
Superintendent's Report ...... ............................................................... 100
Individual School Reports.................................................................... 106
Northeast Metropolitan Regional Vocational School ........................ ............. 154
BOARDS, COMMITTEES AND COMMISSIONS
Report .......................................................................................... 165
APPENDIX
A. Election Results........................................................................ 172
B. Annual Town Meeting Warrant and Minutes..................................... 203
C. Subsequent Town Meeting Warrant and Minutes............................... 291
D. Financial Statements................................................................. 335
3
Dear Fellow Reading Residents,
The Town of Reading Annual Report covering calendar year 2018 is attached. This report both
summarizes and provides great detail for many Town activities during the year.
Override
In April, 2018 local voters approved a Proposition 2 1/2 override. Reading voters approved the
override by a 60% to 40% margin and this was the first operating override in 14 years. The $4.15
million override was gratefully accepted by both the town and school departments, and additional
staffing was added through early 2019. Public Safety received 70% of the town funding, and as a
result five(5)new Police Officers and four(4)new Firefighters have been added. A second School
Resource Officer was assigned to the schools in August 2018. This additional staffing was critical
as the town has grown by about 10% in population since the last override, and is forecast to
continue to grow in both the residential and commercial sectors due to the economic development
efforts described one year ago. Both Police and Fire are now staffed closer to average peer
community per-capita levels.
Economic Growth
Redevelopment in the downtown area continued at a robust pace as part of an economic
development strategy adopted by the community to expand the tax base:
Schoolhouse Commons: Construction is 95%complete on a 20-unit multifamily residential rental
housing project at 172 Woburn Street(next to St. Agnes Catholic Church)to be built under MGL
Chapter 40B was approved by the Reading Zoning Board of Appeals during the summer 2017
after about a six month public process. Full project details may be found on the Town's website
under the Planning division, at this link:
https://www.readin�zma.gav/public-services/planning-division/pages/schoolhouse-commons-40b
Reading Village: Construction is about 60% complete on a 68-unit multifamily residential rental
project at 39-41 Lincoln Street and 2-12 Prescott Street (near the train depot) to be built under
MGL Chapter 40B was approved by the Reading Zoning Board of Appeals during the winter 2017
also after about a one year public process. Full project details may be found here:
https://www.readin�zma.gav/planning-division/pages/reading villa
Postmark Square: Construction has just begun on this exciting mixed use prof ect to be built under
the Town of Reading's 40R Downtown Smart Growth District (DSGD). The DSGD is part of
Reading's zoning bylaw and was adopted under MGL Chapter 40R. Postmark Square will consist
of 50 luxury condominiums (for sale) units and approximately 8,500 square feet of commercial
space at 136 Haven Street and 0 Sanborn Street(the former Post Office site), which was approved
by the Reading Community Planning and Development Commission during the early Fall 2017
after a public process that took the better part of one year because of federal historic requirements.
Full project details may be found here:
https://www.readin�zma. ov/planning-division/communit-i)lannin�z-and-development-
commission/hampostmark-square-136-haven-st
4
20-24 Gould Street: Construction has not yet started on this mixed use project built under the
Town of Reading's 40R Downtown Smart Growth District (DSGD). The DSGD is part of
Reading's zoning bylaw and was adopted under MGL Chapter 40R. This project will consist of
55 rental units and approximately 3,500 square feet of commercial space at 20 and 24 Gould Street
(the former EMARC building). Approval was granted by the Reading Community Planning and
Development Commission during the late fall 2017 after a public process that required about 4
months because of historic requirements. Full project details may be found here:
htt s://www.readin ma.,,ov/planning-division/community-planning-and-development-
commission/pages/20-24-could-street
467 Main Street: Construction has just started on this mixed use project to be built under the
Town of Reading's 40R Downtown Smart Growth District (DSGD). The DSGD is part of
Reading's zoning bylaw and was adopted under MGL Chapter 40R. This project will consist of
31 rental units and approximately 2,500 square feet of commercial space at 467 Main Street(the
former Sunoco gas station). Approval was granted by the Reading Community Planning and
Development Commission during the winter 2018 after a public process that took 4 months. Full
project details may be found here:
htt s://www.readin ma.,,ov/planning-division/community-planning-and-development-
commission/pales/467-main-street
Consolidation in the drug store commercial market has created additional opportunities along
Haven Street.
Wayfindin2
As the downtown starts to take on a new look, town staff has met for about two years with the
local businesses and developed a program to help out of town customers find their businesses and
nearby parking. Efforts continue, supplemented by a couple of very competitive grants received
from the state as Reading continues to receive accolades in the planning circles.
Affordable Housing
The town received a rare two-year `safe harbor' from the state, a reprieve from developers coming
in with so-called 40B dense housing projects that bypass local zoning and control. The Zoning
Board of Appeals together with a local group of neighbors used the `safe harbor' status to leverage
concessions as part of the comprehensive permit application for the Eaton/Lakeview 40B project
filed on 1/9/18. Reading was uniquely situated in a strong position because of the `safe harbor'
status and working with the developer was able to modify and improve upon the initial design and
scale of the project. Successful navigation of the state's complex regulations by town staff has the
town on the brink of achieving the 10% affordable housing goal, which will make that safe harbor
permanent—at least until the 2020 census resets targets.
Next Steps
Another state grant has allowed initial work on expanding economic development in the Eastern
Gateway (Walker's Brook area) importantly with the first steps a design to link the area to the
downtown area with walking/biking paths and attractive green space. Meetings with private land
owners in the Walker's Brook area have begun, and resulted in a strong sense of the community
working together towards these visions of the future.
5
Please enjoy the remainder of our Annual Report that follows. As always, we welcome your
thoughts and comments anytime!
Robert W. LeLacheur, Jr. CFA
Town Manager
Email: townmana�zer(-&ci.reading.ma.us
Website: wwwxeadimzma.�ov
6
Town of Reading, MA
Executive Branch
t. Table of Organization
'"`April 2018 Town Muting—no changes)
VOTERS
SCHOOL COMMITTEE BOARD OF SELECTMEN BOARD OF
(elected) (elected) LIBRARY TRUSTEES
(elected)
School Sand Town Accountant Town Manager Town Counsel
Buildings Department
ADMINISTRATIVE
FACILITIES SERVICES PUBLIC SERVICES FINANCE PUBLIC SAFETY PUBLIC WORKS PUBLIC LIBRARY
Facilities Assistant Police Chief
Director dministrative Services Town Manager Tawa7 Accountant Fire Chief Director of Publuc Works Library Director
Director
Board of Selectmen Police,
Finance Committee Publla Svc Administration Accounting DPW Administration Library Administration
Communit Devela ment Assessment Animal Control g 9 Circulation
Core Facilities En ineerin
Town Manager Office Y p Traffic Enforcement
Town Buildings Law Building Collections HighwaynMaintenance
Children's
Insurance Planning Treasury TeVecommunGcatians Equipment Maintenance Reference
Human ResourcesHistorical RCASA ParksfForestr tCemeter
Y Tech Services
Operations Conservation Fire RubbshtRecyclling
Technology Community Services
p Emergency Managemeril Street Lighting
Town Clerk Elder/Human Snow/Ice
Elections I Public Health Water
Recreation Sewer
Veterans Stormwwaater
7
ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES DEPARTMENT
Select Board
Vanessa Alvarado was elected to a three-year term. Andrew Friedmann served as Chair, Barry
Berman served as Vice Chair and Dan Ensminger served as Secretary.
Personnel and Appointments
The Select Board reappointed Sharon Angstrom as Town Accountant with a term expiring June
30, 2019.
The Board also continued the appointment of the firm of Miyares and Harrington as Town
Counsel.
The Town Manager's contract was renewed through August 2021.
In May 2018 the Board extended a regional Inter Municipal Agreement (IMA) for the POST
program with the Wakefield School department on behalf of Reading Schools. In July the Board
renewed an IMA for Metro North Regional Housing Services with Wilmington, North Reading
and Saugus. In December 2018 the Board approved the renewal of an IMA with Wakefield for a
shared Director of the Assessing Department.
Boards and Committees
In January 2018 the Select Board met in joint session with the Library Trustees and appointed
Monette Verrier to the balance of a term.
In late January 2018 the Select Board met in joint session with the School Committee, Library
Trustees and Finance Committee.After much debate and a few possible ballot questions discussed,
the Board voted to put forth one single Override question for the April 2018 local election:
Shall the Town ofReading be allowed to assess an additional$4.15 million in real estate
and personal property taxes for the purposes ofthe general operation ofthe Public Schools
for Classroom Teachers ($1,802,484); Teaching, Learning and Classroom Support
($821,429); and Athletics ($31,056);for 5 Police Officers and 4 Firefighter/paramedics
($1,050,311); for General Government including Public Works, Finance, Technology,
Human/Elder Services and Inspections ($317,391); and for increased hours and staffing
for the Public Library ($127,329)for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2018?
Yes No
In April 2018 local voters voted 5,177 in favor(60%) and 3,392 opposed(40%).
In February the Select Board adopted a Housing Production Plan out forth by Assistant Town
Manager Jean Delios. The town has taken several strides forward in affordable housing, and is
considered a model for other communities to emulate by the state. The Board also approved safety
changes at Green Street due to upcoming development and at Killam School.
8
In March, the Board approved water and sewer rates that were both unchanged, but increased the
storm water charge from $40 to $60 per year for residential customers.
The Board held several hearings and made changes to their Select Board Policies Articles 1 and
Articles 2.
In May the Board met in joint session with the Reading Housing Authority, and declined to use
funds from the Affordable Housing Trust Fund (AHTF) to purchase a unit. The Board spoke in
favor of reviewing changes to the AHTF and established a subcommittee to look into the matter.
In June the Board approved a Non Union Classification and Compensation Plan. During the year
in Executive Sessions the Board approved collective bargaining agreements with all town unions.
In August the Board authorized the sale of a Brook Street parcel formerly held in tax title and sold
jointly with Wakefield.
The Board reviewed ten possible Select Board goals and approved five of them for FY19.Members
Alvarado and Berman were assigned Select Board policy section 1.4 Communication; Ensminger
and Friedmann Select Board Policy Articles 1 and 2 Volunteers and other items; Alvarado and
Halsey capital projects and use of Oakland Road land; Berman and Friedmann Housing Trust
Fund; and Berman and Ensminger the format for a new committee for economic development.
The Board approved the second year on Senior Tax Relief, and split the tax rate with a factor of
1.04 such that commercial would pay a portion of such relief.
The Board approved an extension of a Comcast agreement after a team led by Select Board
member Dan Ensminger and Administrative Services Director Matt Kraunelis concluded 18
months of negotiations.
In December 2018 the Board finalized the Town Manager's FY19 goals and conducted public
meetings on the FY20 budgets.
The Board's two-member Volunteer Appointment Sub Committee(VASO)met during the year as
needed to review volunteer applications and fill vacancies. Board members Alvarado and
Ensminger served on the VASC for the year.
Licenses and Permits
The Select Board approved the following liquor licenses in 2018:
• A Change of Manager for Anthony's Coal Fired Pizza in February.
• A Change of Manager for Biltmore & Main Grill and Bar in February.
• A Change of DBA for Ristorante Pavarotti to Zucca Italian Restaurant& Bar in March.
• A Change of Officer/Beneficial Interest for Anthony's Coal Fired Pizza in May.
• A Change of Manager for Longhorn Steakhouse in December.
9
Town Counsel
The role of Town Counsel is to provide information about what the law requires, to advise Town
officials and boards concerning the law, to protect the legal interests of the Town in the conduct
of its affairs, and to represent the Town in judicial and administrative proceedings. This involves
the preparation of legal memoranda and the negotiation, drafting or review of protocols,
memoranda of understanding or other types of agreements and contracts. In addition, Town
Counsel answers questions on topics such as procurement, contracts, insurance, land use,
environmental law, wetlands protection, municipal finance, construction law, employment, open
meeting and public records requirements, and ethics.
In 2018, we represented Reading in four litigation matters:
Matteo Gallo, Trustee v. Town of Reading, Land Court No. 15-MISC-000566
In this case,the owner of 506 Summer Avenue seeks a declaration that this property,which
is located in the S-15 zoning district, may be used as a three-family dwelling. This matter
remains active, and is on track for trial in 2019.
Paul Ferazzi, Trustee v. Reading Zoning Board of Appeals,
Superior Court 1681-CV-02881-H
In a decision dated September 1, 2016, the ZBA found that the property located at 85
Bancroft Street was not a lawfully nonconforming three-family dwelling. The property
owner appealed this decision pursuant to M.G.L.c.40A, §17. This case remains active, and
is on track for trial in 2019.
Alanna M. Spero v. Town of Reading, et al, Superior Court 1881CV2014
In this case, the owner of a condominium subject to an M.G.L. c.40R affordable housing
deed rider sued the Town and other entities with respect to the proposed sale of that
condominium. The Town settled this case prior to trial through an agreement that
authorized a sale of the condominium subject to a new affordable housing deed rider, with
no monetary liability to the Town.
Nicholas J. Bonanno v. Community Planning and Development Commission,
Superior Court 1881CV03379
In this case, an abutter to the Meadow Brook Golf Course appealed the site plan approval
decision of the Community Planning and Development Commission authorizing
construction of a new clubhouse. The plaintiff has now voluntarily withdrawn this appeal
and this case is now closed.
The year 2018 marked the fourth full year of our tenure as Town Counsel in Reading. We believe
that each matter that comes before Town Counsel deserves careful thought, and we strive to
provide the Town with personal, direct and responsive legal counsel, diligent attention to the
Town's needs, and good humor.
Respectfully submitted,
J. Raymond Miyares
Miyares and Harrington LLP
Town Counsel
10
Town Clerk
Elections:
In 2018 there were three Elections. The Town Election was held on April 3rd. The State Primary
was held on September 41h and the State Election was held on November 61h. In 2016 Early Voting
was implemented for all State Elections. Early Voting period for the November State Election was
October 22nd to November 2nd. At the April 3rd Town Election there was a vote for a Prop 2 �/z
Override of$4.15 million in real estate and personal property taxes for General Operation of Public
Schools and General Government.
Election Turnout:
At the April 3rd Town Election, there were 8,563 votes cast with 440 Absentee Ballots, a turnout
of 43.8%. At the September 4 1 State Primary, there were 4,766 votes cast with 262 Absentee
Ballots, a turnout of 24.2%. At the November 6 1 State Election,there were 13,444 votes cast with
660 Absentee Ballots and 3,916 Early Voting Ballots, a turnout of 67.8%.
Board of Registrars:
Registrars Krissandra Holmes, Gloria Hulse, Harry Simmons, and Town Clerk Laura Gemme
registered 1,462 voters; made 6,500 voter changes (name, address, status); and deleted 672 voters
in 2018. There were 8,395 signatures certified on nomination and petition papers for the 2018
election year. Registrars also offered assistance to voters on Election Day.
Census:
The Annual Town Census was conducted in January, entirely by mail, with 12,208 forms mailed
to residences.
The local census assists the Town Clerk in putting together the Street List and the Jury List. Major
functions served by an annual local census include: Information collected for municipal purposes
such as School needs, Growth and planning needs, Resident identification for police and fire,
Collection of dog information, and Veteran Information. As well as Information for the Jury
Commissioners and Determining inactive voter status for voter removal as required by the National
Voter Registration Act.
Town Meeting:
Town of Reading held an Annual and Subsequent Town Meeting in 2018. The Annual Town
Meeting was held in two nights on April 23rd and April 261h. The Subsequent Town Meeting was
held in one night on November 151h.
Vital Statistics and Licensing:
During the calendar year 2018, the following Vital Statistics were recorded in the Town Clerk's
Office:
Birth Records —270 Marriage Records —71 Death Records —433
The Town Clerk's office issued 2,560 dog licenses, 2 commercial dog kennel licenses and 3
residential kennel licenses, 136 business certificates, 19 renewals for 68 underground storage
tanks, and 42 cemetery deeds.
11
The Town Clerk as the Burial Agent for the Board of Health issued 318 Burial Permits.
Total Receipts:
Total receipts collected in the Town Clerk's office for the calendar year 2018 amounted to
$85,741.50
Human Resources
The Human Resources Division supports the Town (under the direction of the Town Manager),
Schools (under the direction of the Superintendent), Light Department(under the direction of the
RMLD General Manager) and Retiree benefit activities.
Employee benefits administered through this Division include health, dental and life insurance,
deferred compensation, flexible spending accounts, the sick-leave bank,the Employee Assistance
Program,paid time off, leave of absences,professional development and unemployment benefits.
Job related injuries covered by worker's compensation or MGL Chapter 41 Section 111F (for
public safety employees) are also administered through this department for Town, School and
RMLD employees.
Workers compensation is a premium-based program purchased through the Massachusetts Inter-
Local Insurance Association(MIIA). The Town is self-insured for job-related injuries of its public
safety employees qualifying under Section 111F. This program is fully administered within the
Human Resources Division. The administration of the 111F program includes fully reviewing all
medical bills, coding and rating of these bills for payment and negotiating surgical payments and
rates with providers who do not accept the customary Division of Industrial Accidents rates. In
2018, Human Resources coded and paid 191 multiple page bills requiring coding and manually
rating each line for payment. We managed and tracked 75 workers compensation claims and
processed multiple correspondence related to these claims and payments.
The Human Resources Division administers health insurance, dental insurance, life insurance,
deferred compensation plans, accruals, payroll deductions and other benefits for approximately
1,616 employees of the School Department, Town, and RMLD. In addition, we process 403B
documentation for school employees.
The Town's health insurance program is currently administered through MIIA, with large losses
being shared by all members of the MIIA Health Benefits Trust. The Town occasionally reviews
options of its health insurance plans available through an open bid process. Human Resources
processed 410 health insurance enrollments, 340 dental insurance enrollments, 221 death benefit
applications, 157 Flexible Spending Accounts and 39 health insurance opt-out applicants.
In July of 2018, we successfully transitioned our Post 65 population to Medicare and Medex plans
through an extensive process coordinating with Social Security, Retirees and MIIA. Previously,
this Retiree population was disqualified from receiving Medicare benefits. This process included
identifying those retirees and meeting with them to offer a more beneficial plan including Medicare
and our Medex plan.
12
Human Resources worked closely with our Retirees and MIIA to identify and qualify eligible
individuals to the new Medicare and Medex plans. We held a series of meetings to explain the
process and have been partnering with our retirees to allow for this transition. The Post 65
transition was successful and afforded a benefit not previously available to these retirees who had
no eligibility. This successful project benefited both the Town and our Retirees by reducing the
costs. The Retiree will experience lower costs with the Medex plan,as the co-pays are significantly
lowered or eliminated, and premiums are more manageable for medical expenses. The Town
benefited by shifting the higher costs of this group to Medicare and stabilizing the demands on our
active employee plans. This ultimately resulted in a reduction in our premiums.
The Public Employee Committee meets occasionally to review the status of the Town's plans and
to provide input throughout the selection process. We are currently anticipating the disclosure of
our FY 2020 rates and will be meeting with the Public Employee Committee to confirm our plan
coverage and any other updates being considered.
Human Resources processed approximately 117 employees through the hiring, promotion and
reactivation process during the calendar year of 2018. We posted 54 job opportunities, reviewed
1,006 applicants,processed 355 CORIs and administered 162 occupational health appointments.
In addition, Human Resources provided professional development trainings related to DOT
reasonable suspicion certifications, sexual harassment training, managed our random drug testing
program, managed FMLA requests, administered ADA reasonable accommodation requests,
participated in collective bargaining, conducted internal complaint investigations and promoted a
number of wellness programs through our health care provider.
Human Resources also work hand-in-hand with the Finance Department to manage OPEB census
data collection and updates, conduct insurance reconciliations, provide payroll support with
deductions and discrepancies, and final payout calculations on exiting employees.
We provide internal customer service to all our employees including:
Schools: RMLD:
400 Reading Teachers Association Benefits Only
Members 12 Clerical Employees
19 Custodians 27 Linemen, Station Operators and
13 School Secretaries and Clerical Meter Readers
Workers 29 Professionals
32 Cafeteria Workers
159 Para-educators
13
Town: 8 Facilities and Maintenance Workers
34 Police Patrolman's Association 40 Public Works Employees
Members 4 Public Works Supervisors
11 Police Supervisors 3 Engineers
10 Public Safety Dispatchers 130 Non-Union Employees
45 Firefighters 345 Retirees
Technolo2y
The Technology Division is responsible for providing and maintaining the necessary computing
and telecommunications infrastructure and systems that the various Town departments use, in a
secure and thoughtful manner. Additionally, the division administers the geographic information
system (GIS), and provides the town's departments, boards, committees, and commissions with
custom maps and analysis.
Operations
The Operations Division includes the Department Head,Business Administrator, and Procurement
Officer, and staff shared with the department and/or the organization. This division is the
centralized location for insurance/risk management, procurement, communications, and
constituent services. The division also works with all town departments on multiple special
projects,providing support across several domains.
The Business Administrator manages the Reading Community Alerts system, powered by
CodeRED, for both internal and external emergency and non-emergency communications. She
also manages the SeeClickFix system that connects residents with town staff to report and repair
issues, like potholes, around town. She completed the Massachusetts Emergency Management
System Basic Public Information Officer course, is key in crafting messaging around numerous
public information campaigns, working with Public Safety, Public Works, and others to improve
visibility and connectivity between municipal government and the community.
The Business Administrator also serves as the Safety Officer, chairing the interdepartmental Safety
Committee, which seeks to reduce risk and injuries across all departments, including RMLD. She
also works closely with Massachusetts Interlocal Insurance Association (MIIA) to manage all
Automobile, General Liability, Property, Law Enforcement Liability, Public Officials Liability,
School Board Liability, and Umbrella/Excess Liability insurance matters. This year the Safety
Committee received a Risk Management Award for Community Excellence for 2018 and also
created an OSHA Working Group to drive toward compliance on this new state requirement.
Procurement
The Procurement Office issued 25 Invitations for Bid/Requests for Proposals, approved 298
requisitions, and sold 2 pieces of equipment via auction. In addition, we fielded numerous and
emails for insight on quotes and best practices. The Procurement Officer is an integral partner in
the planning phase of certain projects, repairs, and initiatives, working with all the departments
to facilitate and educate about state procurement law.
14
PUBLIC SERVICES DEPARTMENT
The Public Services Department(formerly Community Services)provides professional services
to the public and provides varying levels of staff support to the 10 boards and commissions that
fall within the departmental organizational chart. The Department is staffed with both full-time
and part-time employees as well as a limited amount of outsourced professional services plus
volunteers.
The services provided are organized as either Community Development or Community Services.
The Community Development Divisions include Planning, Conservation, Historical, and
Inspections —Building, Plumbing/Gas, Electrical, and Mechanical. The Community Services
Divisions include Health, Elder/Human Services, Recreation and Veterans Services. Cross-
division coordination as well as collaboration with the Town's many community partners is
paramount to the operational success of the Department.
Providing services in a cost-efficient manner is an overriding goal of the Department. For example,
the Metro North Regional Housing Services Office (MNRHSO) includes a full-time staff person
who is shared between the communities of Reading, North Reading, Wilmington, and Saugus.
Another example of cost savings is the use of three part-time building inspectors, a part-time
electrical inspector and a part-time plumbing/gas inspector. A full-time Permits Coordinator
oversees permitting. Most permits are issued on the same day they are applied for.
The Assistant Town Manager leads the Department and works closely with the Assistant
Department head (Community Development Director). Outside services are provided as needed
mostly on master planning projects and grant-related projects. In early 2019, hiring for the
position of Economic Development Director, which has been open since late 2017, got
underway. In addition, the Community Development Director position will be open as of March
2019, and hiring for that position is anticipated to take place in the spring.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
Within the Public Services Department, Community Development personnel comprise expertise
and deliver services to the public related to the fields of planning, affordable housing,
conservation, historical properties, and building inspections.
In 2018, Community Development staff continued to provide regular support to the Community
Planning and Development Commission, the Conservation Commission, the Historical
Commission, the Historic Districts Commission, and the Zoning Board of Appeals. Planning
staff also provided support to the Select Board as needed.
Volunteers represent a tremendous resource for Community Development. Extensive work is
undertaken because of the ongoing efforts of the many volunteers.
15
Planning Division
Community Development Director: Julie Mercier
Regional Housing Coordinator: Laurie Stanton
Permits Coordinator: Kim Saunders
Staff Planner: Andrew MacNichol
The Planning Division provides technical and professional planning services to the Town of
Reading and the relevant land use boards. The Town of Reading Master Plan, as well as other
long-range plans regarding economic development, transportation, housing, and other aspects of
land use and development, serves as a guide for planning staff in helping to achieve stated goals
for the Town. Planning processes aid civic leaders, businesses and citizens in envisioning and
implementing new possibilities for the future. In addition to long-range planning,planning staff
also develop action plans aimed at providing solutions to current community problems and at
addressing daily needs.
Site Plan Review(SPR) is the zoning tool used to evaluate development projects. This is an
important tool as it allows the Town to influence projects so that they respect the existing fabric
of the Town as well as future planning objectives, and are carried out in harmony with the rest of
the community. Planning staff work directly with the Community Planning and Development
Commission (CPDC) in reviewing development proposals and drafting SPR decisions that
reflect and mitigate issues elaborated by the CPDC, staff and the public during the development
review process.
The existing organizational structure of Public Services supports collaboration and
communication across the department. The Planning Division regularly collaborates with all
Divisions of Community Development as well as Community Services. For example, the
Community Development Director coordinates Development Review Team (DRT) meetings and
Pre-Construction meetings with applicants to provide guidance on permitting and development.
In an effort to clarify applicants' expectations during the permitting process, the Community
Development Director prepares annual Permitting Schedules for the CPDC and ZBA that
delineate submission deadlines and staff actions for various types of projects based on meeting
dates.
The Division undertook other notable projects in 2018, ranging from updates to the Zoning
Bylaw, to a Wayfinding/Branding Study for the Town of Reading. The update to the Housing
Production Plan was finalized in early 2018, and the Town was designated a Housing Choice
Community in spring 2018. Pursuant to that designation, Planning staff applied for and received
a grant to work with a consultant on a redevelopment study for the New Crossing Road area,
which kicked off in early 2019. The second annual Economic Development Community
Workshop was held on October 18, 2018; this time with a focus on economic development
efforts downtown—wayfinding,parking, district management. The Town was notified in early
2019 of a grant award for assistance with setting up a downtown organization to properly
champion and manage the downtown.
16
Metro North Regional Housing Services Office(MNRHSO)
In regional planning efforts, the towns of Reading, North Reading, Wilmington and Saugus
jointly hired a Regional Housing Coordinator in January 2015 to provide staff support to the
Metro North Regional Housing Services Office (MNRHSO), which is situated under the
Planning Division at Reading Town Hall. The MNRHSO was established and set up during
2015, and initial services for each town included: the creation of monitoring databases of
affordable housing developments and residents, and the collection of records for each affordable
unit. During 2018, the Regional Housing Coordinator continued to work with each member
town's planning staff and with a housing consultant to further the work of the M?v RHSO.
Ongoing core services include: annual monitoring for both ownership and rental units;
reconciling municipal inventories with the DHCD's Subsidized Housing Inventory (SHI);
petitioning to add new units to the SHI when required; meeting on-site with staff and housing
entities; creating and updating interested-buyer, interested-renter lists; on-site consulting on
projects; providing guidance to unit owners on re-financing and selling, and to renters as needed;
helping towns to achieve town-specific goals; attendance and outreach at regional affordable
housing lotteries and events;preparation of proposals for supplemental services as needed; aid in
writing grants and RFPs; assistance with regional linkages; updating the MNRHSO webpage;
and attendance at the annual Mass Housing Institute conference to enhance networking and to
learn new trends in the field of affordable housing.
The Planning Division continues to work to further the scope and range of the Regional Housing
Coordinator and MNRHSO, and to reach out to other nearby communities to expand
membership when possible.
Metropolitan Area Planning Council (MAPC)
North Suburban Planning Council (NSPC) Sub-region
The North Suburban Planning Council (NSPC) is composed of eight towns and one city that
have formed a voluntary association to facilitate cooperative regional planning. The goals of
NSPC are to facilitate communication between member communities on planning topics of
interest, including issues of growth management and land use,to promote and seek opportunities
for inter-municipal coordination and cooperation, and to educate participating communities on
new and important issues in the planning field. NSPC provides a forum for members to create a
shared agenda for action that, if thoughtfully addressed, will allow the region to continue to
thrive as a desirable place to live and work. The NSPC met on a wide range of topics including
clean energy,parking, and regional collaboration over delivery of services.
Community Planning and Development Commission (CPDC)
In 2018, the CPDC held 15 meetings and attended Annual Town Meeting. With the assistance of
Planning staff, the CPDC reviewed a total of 22 applications for the following: 1 Special Permit;
6 Site Plan Reviews; 1 Minor Modification to an existing Site Plan Approval; 1 Major
Modification to an existing Site Plan Approval; 4 Sign Permit Reviews; 1 Concept Plan Review;
1 Definitive Subdivision Plan; 1 Modification to an Approved Definitive Subdivision; 2 40R
Plan Reviews; 1 Modification to an existing 40R Approval; 1 Minor Amendment to an existing
PUD-R Approval; and 2 Approval Not Required Plans. The CPDC also endorsed 1 set of
approved Definitive Subdivision Plans, and approved 3 Lot Release Requests and 1 Request for
Release of Surety. During the course of the year, the CPDC held public hearings regarding 2018
17
Zoning Bylaw Amendments,participated in an Economic Development Community Meeting
facilitated by Town staff, and had an ongoing discussion of potential changes to the Downtown
Smart Growth District(40R) Design Guidelines.
The Planning Division is located at Town Hall, 16 Lowell Street, telephone (781) 942-6648.
Conservation Division
Reading Conservation Commission
The Reading Conservation Commission (RCC) is the regulatory authority (per state statute and
local bylaw) responsible for protecting and preserving wetlands and waterways and their
surrounding areas. At public meetings on the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month, or as
otherwise announced and through site visits, RCC members work to ensure that all construction
and development projects -residential and commercial -that may alter any wetlands, floodplains,
rivers or streams, are in compliance with state and local regulations. The RCC also protects and
manages the Town's Conservation Lands and natural resources. Meetings normally begin at 7:00
p.m. The Commission's office is located at Town Hall, 16 Lowell Street,Reading,MA 01867, and
the telephone number is (781) 942-6616.
Wetlands Protection Activities
The RCC is mandated to protect wetlands, waterways, water supplies, fisheries, wildlife, and
wildlife habitat as well as regulate activities in a floodplain through its administration of the
Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act and the Reading General Bylaw for Wetlands Protection.
RCC members regularly seek continuing education to keep abreast of frequently changing
regulations and to assist applicants through the regulatory process.
The Commission has a primary role in administering the following statutes and regulations:
• Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act, M.G.L. Chapter 131, Section 40;
• Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act Regulations at 310 CMR 10.00;
• Town of Reading Wetlands Protection Bylaw, and Reading Wetlands Protection Bylaw
Regulations.
In addition to the statutes and regulations listed above, the Conservation Office reviews permit
applications received by the Planning, Building Inspection, and Public Health divisions on
matters within the jurisdiction of the Conservation Commission. In many cases, this "sign-off'
process involves a visit to the site to ascertain whether jurisdictional areas are present.
2018 Natural Resources Conservation Activities
The Conservation Commission engages directly with the community during the Town's Earth Day
and Friends & Family Day events. The opening of Mattera Cabin has provided a venue for many
town-wide activities. Scheduling is done by both the Conservation Division and the Recreation
Department, with many Town groups using the facility.
The Commission implemented a tree replacement policy in an effort to be more consistent in
responding to the cutting down of mature trees within the Commission's jurisdiction. This policy
18
offers applicants the flexibility of providing replacement trees or shrubs or contributing to the
Reading shade tree planting program.
Many special thanks go to the scores of volunteers who assisted as land stewards or participated
in the many Friends groups that work to preserve the Town's natural resources and conservation
lands.
Membership and Office Management
The Reading Conservation Commission is composed of seven volunteer members appointed by
the Select Board for renewable three-year terms and is supported by a full-time Administrator,
Charles Tirone.
In 2018, the Conservation Commission Members were: Rebecca Longley - Chair, Annika
Scanlon -Vice Chair, Michael Flynn, David Pinette, Robert Hayes and Carl Saccone.
Historical Division
Historic District Commission (HDC)
The Historic District Commission oversees both the West Street and Summer Avenue Historic
Districts. The purpose of the HDC is to administer Section 7.3 Local Historic District, of the
General Bylaw, as it pertains to preserving the distinctive characteristics and architecture of the
buildings through review of constructive projects. The HDC encourages building design
compatible with the historic character of the Districts.
In 2018, the HDC reviewed twenty-seven (27) applications. Twelve (12) Certificates of Non-
Applicability and eight(8) Certificates of Appropriateness were issued for projects in the West
Street Historic District. Six (6) Certificates of Non-Applicability and one (1) Certificate of
Appropriateness were issued for projects in the Summer Avenue Historic District.
In 2018, the Commission was composed of five (5)voting members: Everett Blodgett—Chair,
Virginia Adams, Ilene Bornstein, Greg Maganzini and Priscilla Poehler, and two (2) Alternate
members: Amelia Freedman and Pino D'Orazio. Currently there are two (2) open alternate
positions.
For more information about the Historic Districts and the HDC please refer to the Town of
Reading's website.
Reading Historical Commission (RHC)
The work of the Reading Historical Commission (RHC) continued to focus on its responsibility
administering the Town Bylaw (GBL 7.2 et seq.),primarily by conducting demolition delay
hearings. However, the RHC's important work during the year was far more varied and
extensive.
RHC membership consisted of Jonathan Barnes, Chair; Samantha Couture, Secretary; Jack
Williams, Treasurer; Sharlene Reynolds Santo, Member; and Ron Weston, Member. Virginia
19
Adams continued as an Associate Member, and the RHC added two new Associate Members:
Amelia Devin Freedman and Pino D'Orazio. The RHC met formally 13 times (one additional
scheduled meeting was cancelled due to a snow storm), and several members attended various
other Town meetings during the year.
Demolition Delay Hearings
During the year, the RHC was involved with 5 structures subject to demolition delay hearings.
The RHC continued to monitor the historic house at 119 Salem Street, which had been subject to
a demolition delay hearing in 2017 but remained intact until the end of 2018 when it was
demolished.
A demolition delay hearing was conducted for 79-81 Salem Street in October. After imposing
the 6-month demolition delay, the RHC continued to work with the owner in negotiating an early
release agreement letter regarding the site. Although an agreement was reached in principle, the
owner declined to sign the letter and the house remains subject to the demolition delay until
April 3, 2019.
A demolition delay hearing was conducted for 24 Grove Street in November 2018, but the RHC
had been working with the owner for many months prior to the hearing date and continues to
work with the owner as of this date. The 6-month demolition delay was imposed in November,
and cooperative efforts have continued to try to save the historic house.
Similarly, a demolition delay hearing was conducted in December for 20-24 Gould Street(an
important historic commercial building in Reading's Downtown Smart Growth District). As had
been the case with 24 Grove Street, the RHC had been working extensively with the developer of
the property through much of year. This included several RHC meetings beginning as early as
March, as well as participating in numerous CPDC meetings and much dialogue with the
Massachusetts Historical Commission (MHC). The 6-month demolition delay was imposed in
December. However, through extensive negotiations between the developer, the RHC and the
MHC before the end of the year, an agreement governing the redevelopment project at 20-24
Gould Street was reached between the developer, the MHC and the RHC and an early release
agreement letter between the developer and RHC was prepared for signatures in January 2019.
The final property subject to the RHC demolition delay process this year was 136 Haven Street
(the former Post Office, another iconic historic commercial building in the Downtown Smart
Growth District). The RHC's extensive involvement with this property began and occurred in
2017 (see the RHC Annual Report for 2017). However, the RHC continued to work with the
developer during several meetings in 2018. The developer filed an application for a demolition
delay hearing in December 2018, and appeared at the December meeting to review and discuss
his application and his request for relief from the hearing process. The RHC determined that the
Town Bylaw requires the public hearing in this case, and it was scheduled for January 2019.
Other Business
■ Several RHC meetings were held during the year regarding 3 historic buildings on the
Town's List of Historic Structures, that are subject to historic or preservation deed
20
restrictions: Schoolhouse Condominiums (52 Sanborn Street), Reading Depot and 186
Summer Avenue.
Schoolhouse Condominiums - This historic building had been significantly damaged in a
fire and was undergoing extensive reconstruction and renovations. Based upon the
requirements of the deed restriction, the RHC met with the contractor and owner several
times during the year for recommendations concerning new window placement, dumpster
siting and heating/ventilation ductwork placements through building facade walls.
Reading Depot— This historic building, also subject to a historic/preservation deed
restriction, underwent interior renovations to accommodate a new business. Jonathan
Barnes met several times with the project architect and Select Board representatives to
review recommendations concerning the work subject to the deed restrictions.
186 Summer Avenue - This historic house had undergone extensive RHC review and
hearings in past years, and it is subject to a preservation restriction agreement(PRA)
administered by the RHC and the HDC. As two years had elapsed and little work
apparently performed at the site, the RHC and HDC had concerns about the structural
integrity of those portions of this historic house within the purview of the PRA.
Exercising its rights under the PRA, the RHC and HDC conducted a site inspection of the
property with the owner and development team.
■ World War I and Reading Residents Display—Virginia Adams produced a visual display
honoring World War I and the Participation of Reading Residents in the War Effort. It
was prominently displayed in the Reading Public Library and commemorated the 100th
anniversary of World War I.
■ CPDC Design Guidelines for the Downtown Smart Growth District—Following the
CPDC hearing and decision regarding the project at 20-24 Gould Street, CPDC
undertook to revise its design guidelines related to such projects. Jonathan Barnes and
Virginia Adams attended numerous CPDC meetings throughout the year and participated
in the discussion and language revision process.
■ As in past years, the RHC continued to work with other Town boards, committees, and
commissions, and be represented at various Town-wide activities, including DRT
meetings, the New Resident Open House, the spring Reading Garden Club Sale and the
Arts Reading"Discover the Arts Day" Event on the Common. Samantha Couture is
representing the RHC in the Town-Wide Preservation Assessment Grant Program.
■ The RHC continues to monitor and maintain its data systems, files and collections in the
Archives. This year, the RHC added an extensive collection of past Reading Chronicle
editions, as well as the Diaries of Reading resident and well-known women's rights
advocate Emily Ruggles to it acquisitions.
■ The RHC continued to oversee the other processes and programs for which it is
responsible. It continued to administer the Historic House Marker Program, honoring
21
requests for historic house markers and updating the Historic House Marker Program on
the RHC website. The RHC completed other revisions to its processes, including
revising several documents and letters associated with the demolition delay hearing
process and updating the RHC website. Ron Weston created a comprehensive New
Member Information Packet.
■ Throughout the year, the RHC continued to receive and respond to numerous inquiries
typically from Reading residents, realtors and developers. These inquiries,by telephone,
email or written letters, concerned questions about the demolition delay bylaw,
contemplated modifications to historic structures or features, donations of"historic
artifacts" and information about the history of specific properties or items.
Inspections Division
The Inspections Division is responsible for carrying out inspectional services on commercial and
residential construction in the areas of building, gas,plumbing and wiring. In addition, the
division is responsible for enforcing the Town's Zoning By-laws and providing staff to the
Zoning Board of Appeals.
Statistics Year End 2018 Previous Year End
2017
Building: Building Permits Issued" 1034 971
Inspections 1834 1780
Certificates of Inspections 105 121
Occupancy Permits Issued 162 169
Fees Received $499,302* $381,616*
Wiring: Wiring Permits Issued 647 670
Inspections 937 1059
Fees Received $60,724* $51,806*
Plumbing/Gas: Gas Permits Issued 285 300
Gas Fees Received $12,000* $11,771*
Plumbing Permits Issued 403 442
Plumbing Fees Received $22,606* $19,706*
Combined Inspections 1098 1289
Gas/Plumbing
22
TOTAL FEES $594,632* $464,899*
Totals do not include permit fees for Johnson Woods, 467 Main Street, School House
Commons (172 Woburn Street) or the Met at Reading Station (fka Reading Village)
deposited in revolving building account.
* *The total Building permits issued include Building, Mechanical, Fire & Sprinkler Alarm
DRT/Pre-Construction Meetings—40
MBCIA Meetings —6
Court— 7 court dates
ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS
The Zoning Board of Appeals met 21 times in 2018. The ZBA voted on petitions for 1 Variance,
13 Special Permits and 1 Appeal. Two cases were found to be allowed by right and 7 cases were
withdrawn for a variety of reasons.
The Zoning Board of Appeals held several public hearings for the Eaton Lakeview 40B. They
met 6 times in 2018 and the hearing was continued into 2019.
ZBA Members are Chairman John Jarema, Robert Redfern, Damase Caouette, Erik Hagstrom,
and Nick Pernice, and Associate Member Kyle Turnow. Staff support to the ZBA was primarily
provided by Glen Redmond—Building Commissioner, Julie Mercier—Community Development
Director, Andrew MacNichol — Staff Planner, and Kristen Grover—Administrative Specialist.
COMMUNITY SERVICES
Community Services consists of the Elder/Human Services Division, Health Division,
Recreation Division and Veterans' Services.
Elder/Human Services Division
Reading Elder/Human Services provides social services,nurse advocacy, transportation, a variety
of wellness, socialization programs, and nutrition for Reading residents age 60 and over. The
Division also assists residents of all ages with social services, advocacy, referrals and holiday
programs. In assisting residents both young and old, the Department works closely with all town
departments and community partners in receiving referrals and ensuring safety and quality of life
are maintained to the highest standards.
Elder/Human Services partners with many outside organizations. The Department's state
designated ASAP (Aging Service Access Point)is Mystic Valley Elder Services (MVES). ASAPs
manage the state-based Massachusetts Home Care Program, and work with Councils on Aging
(Elder Services), established under the federal Older Americans Act, to make sure that seniors
have access to all essential services. Through MVES a variety of services are provided including
23
home care, personal care, meal-site catering and home-delivered meals through the Meals on
Wheels program. Not all residents are eligible for MVES nor do all accept the services provided.
In these situations, the Division plays a vital role in assisting Reading seniors.
The staff consists of an Administrator (35 hr/wk), a Case Manager (35 hr/wk), a Senior Center
Coordinator (20 hr/wk), a Van Driver(35 hr/wk), a Nurse Advocate (37.5 hr/wk) and a Clerk (19
hr/wk).
Aging in Reading: A Community Needs Assessment
In 2016/2017 the Town partnered with the UMass Boston Gerontology Institute on a Needs
Assessment for the Elder Services Division. The purpose of this assessment was to better position
the Division to respond to the increasing population of senior citizens within the town.
As a result of the Needs Assessment the physical layout of the Pleasant Street Center was examined
closely. It was determined that bathroom facilities are not possible on the main floor. However,
the reception was redesigned to create a more welcoming environment. New lighting was installed
and the reception desk was lowered to comply with ADA guidelines.
Copies the study are available on the Town website and through the Elder Services Division.
25th Anniversary of the Pleasant Street Center
March of 2018 marked the 25h anniversary of the downtown fire station becoming the Town's
Senior Center. The Council on Aging received $2,925.00 in donations from local businesses in
support of the Celebration. The Division hosted a block parry for all residents. The Reading
Firefighters Union provided and cooked hotdogs and hamburgers. Proceeds from the donations
went to providing additional food, live entertainment and giveaways.
Social Services
The Senior Case Manager addresses the needs and concerns of Reading residents of all ages.
Assistance involves crisis intervention, food pantry, domestic violence, homelessness and
information and referrals regarding housing, mental health, and disability-related concerns.
For those age 60 and over, assistance also includes intervening in cases of neglect, loneliness, or
depression,hoarding, coordinating appointments with area medical and social service agencies; as
well as providing information and referrals with regard to nursing home/rehabilitation placement
and eligibility for State and Federal programs.
The Department receives referrals and assistance from many Town Departments as well as outside
agencies. Police, Fire and the EHS Division meet monthly for a round table discussion to review
critical cases. Other areas in which the Senior Case Manager partners with Town Departments
include the Veterans Agent in ensuring services for veterans, the DPW in holiday programs and
the Library on a variety of programs and referrals. During 2018 the Sr. Case Manager had 510
active cases in addition to daily inquiries.
The Senior Case Manager provides eligibility screening and assistance with applications for the
Reading Food Pantry. In order to qualify for the Food Pantry the Case manager meets with the
24
applicant to review their financial qualifications and residency requirements. The Department also
provides transportation to the Food Pantry which is coordinated by the Senior Case Manager.
Nurse Advocacy
The Nurse Advocate is dedicated to helping Reading seniors manage their health care needs. This
position is instrumental in identifying the frailest seniors in Reading, especially those who live
alone and do not have someone nearby for support. Through outreach and referrals the Nurse
Advocate is able to help seniors better understand changes in their medical conditions and/or
medication. She is available to seniors at the Pleasant Street Center and home visits.
Other responsibilities of the Nurse Advocate include educating, counseling and advocating for
seniors. The Nurse Advocate also serves in a leadership role in coordinating a variety of wellness
programs for seniors at the Pleasant Street Center. During 2018 the Nurse Advocate had 354 active
cases in addition to daily inquiries.
Transportation
There are a variety of transportation programs available to Reading residents. The Social Services
division assists with referrals for the MBTA Ride program and coordinates services for the
Reading Response Medical Transportation program. This service provides taxi or chair car
transportation for medical appointments throughout the Boston Area. The Reading Response
Program is funded by the Town of Reading's Hospital Trust Fund, the income on which helps to
defray medically related services to Reading citizens as authorized by the Commissioners.
As part of the Medical Transportation program, residents having day surgical procedures can be
accompanied by a Home Health aide. During 2018 the division scheduled 1245 rides through the
Reading Response program.
The division also operates a 12-passenger van for seniors and adults with disabilities.
Transportation is provided in-town and surrounding shopping plazas for the following purposes:
errands, grocery shopping, voting, pharmacy needs, and visiting the Pleasant Street Center. For
younger residents,the van services offers transportation to and from the food pantry and other vital
destinations. In 2018, the van provided 5973 one-way trips.
The Division operates two vans, one on a regular route and the other offering bimonthly trips to
various destinations. In 2018, 249 residents attended trips throughout the area.
The Pleasant Street Center
In late June the Pleasant Street Center Coordinator retired after 14 years of service. After
reviewing the staffing plan, it was decided Residents would be best served by dividing the position
between a part-time Senior Center Coordinator and a part-time Clerk. This plan allows for
consistency on the reception desk and a more welcoming environment. In December a part-time
Sr. Center Coordinator was hired. The search for a clerk will take place in early 2019.
The Pleasant Street Center provides fitness, nutrition, socialization and wellbeing for Reading
seniors. The Center is open Monday through Friday, 8:30 am—4:00 pm. Lunch is served Monday
through Friday (except holidays) at 11:45 am. Meals are provided by Mystic Valley Elder
25
Services. During the year, 3775 lunches were served at the Pleasant street Center. During 2018,
950 residents took part in an activity at the Center.
The Center Coordinator's primary responsibility is to manage the daily operations of the Center
including the care of the facility and the coordination of activities. Below is a summary of the
programs.
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Frida
Zumba fitness Art Lessons Zumba Zumba B.E.S.T. -Strength
Training
Hairdresser* Advanced Art Knitting Club Reflexology Walking Club
Yoga Brain Yoga Billiards Mah Jongg Chess
Cribbage Bingo Computer Computer Lessons Party Bridge
Lessons
Birthday Lunch* Computer Tai Chi Book Club* Clean & Sober
Lessons Support Group
Blood Pressure Walking Club Parkinson's Movies
Clinic Support Group*
Memory Cafe*+ Low Vision* Blood Pressure
Clinic
SHINE- SHINE- health Scuttlebutt*
health insurance info*
insurance info*
Chair Yoga I Movie Days
Chair Volley Ball*
*Meet monthly +Meets at Library
In 2018 the Division once again applied for and received at Title IIIE grant from Mystic Valley
Elder Services in support of the Memory Cafe. The grant was for $1800.00 to support
programming and supplies needed to operate the Cafe.
The Division publishes a monthly newsletter, The Pleasantries, to increase awareness of the
programs. Included in the newsletters is a listing of special events including day trips, dinner
programs, Lunch n' Learn programs, musical entertainment and trivia days. In addition to the
newsletter, the division also sends a weekly email newsletter to subscribers. Groups supporting
special events in 2018 include the Police Department, Lions Club, and the Council on Aging.
Intergeneration Programs
Elder/Human Services continues to reach out to the community, particularly the younger
generation. High School students volunteer as bingo callers,computer instructors and kitchen staff
during the summer months. In 2018 the Boys High School Hockey and Lacrosse teams assisted
54 elders with snow removal.
26
As in past years the middle schools provided entertainment during the holidays. In the Spring,
Parker Middle School hosted the annual intergenerational Cribbage Tournament. The Division
continues to play an active role in Downtown Trick or Treating.
Volunteers
Over the course of the last several years,there has been a decrease in the number of volunteers and
volunteer hours. This is largely in part due to the staffing hours required to manage and train
volunteers. As social services contacts and clients increase, the time needed to recruit volunteers
has diminished. The division recognizes the importance and need for volunteers and is grateful to
the residents that offer their time in service.
Positions filled by volunteers include: Pleasant Street Center receptionists, gardeners, book
discussion leaders, game leaders, income tax preparers, computer instructors, COA members,
friendly visitors, office workers, newsletter editor, kitchen helpers, shoppers for homebound
seniors, and shopping escorts.
In the past year 104 registered volunteers gave estimated 4590.88 hours of service. The financial
equivalent for these services is approximately $37,877.00.
Property Tax Workers
The Property Tax Worker program allows Reading seniors to perform various tasks for Town
departments in exchange for an abatement on their property taxes. The program is open to Reading
residents age 62 and over or disabled, who own property and have a household income that does
not exceed limits set by the program. In 2018, there were 26 tax workers and each participant was
permitted to earn a maximum abatement of $1,000 annually. The workers performed 3088.20
hours of service. In 2018,participants were compensated at a rate of$8.00 per hour for a program
total of$24,705.60. The program has been funded through the Assessors' Overlay account.
Burbank Trust Fund
The fund was established by the Burbank Family of Reading. This fund can be used in a variety
of ways to benefit seniors. The fund was established with no usage restrictions however the COA
determined the fund cannot go below $250,000.00.
In 2018, the Council on Aging approved expenditures from the Dorothy L. Burbank Trust to pay
for the following: three months of postage cost for bulk mailings of the newsletter,birthday cakes,
gift certificates, lunch for the monthly birthday celebrants.
The Council allows the Division Administration a discretionary budget of $3,000.00 to provide
entertainment at the Pleasant Street Center.
2018 beginning balance = $262,330.00
2018 ending balance= $272,565.00
Patrons for Older Adults Fund
In 2010, Town Meeting members voted to accept a gift from the Patrons for Older Adults
(Article 17). This fund is used to support programs not funded by the Town of Reading. "Nevi'
27
programs can be funded year after year. The fund came to Elder Services/COA as a gift from
The Patron for Older Adults, who donated the money when the organization dismantled. The
fund when originally established was in the amount of$125,000.00.
In 2018, the Council on Aging approved expenditures from the fund to support the Volunteer
Appreciation Event and a Chinese Dinner. In addition,the Council approved funding day trips for
seniors. The fund covers the cost of fuel and drivers salary for a variety of monthly excursions.
In 2018, 250 residents participated in the day trip program.
2018 beginning balance = $142,338.00
2018 ending balance= $141,731.19
Schroeder Trust Fund
The Schroeder fund is a goodwill fund that can only be used to provide small gestures of kindness
to seniors. This fund allows the COA to purchase and deliver meals to seniors on Thanksgiving,
Christmas, and Easter. In 2018, the Thanksgiving meals were once again generously donated by
Christopher's Restaurant and not purchased by the Schroeder Trust. All meals were delivered by
Council on Aging members and staff. In 2018, the staff added a lobster roll lunch meal delivery
to 15 seniors living in isolation.
The Schroeder fund allows interest only spending, and cannot go below $10,000.
2018 beginning balance = $23,088.00
2018 ending balance= $22,939.29
Donations
Many individuals and organizations have generously supported Elder/Human Services' efforts by
providing money, gifts, and in-kind services. The Elder Services Donations Fund covers
situations for persons age 60 and older who lack financial resources to cover basic needs or
emergencies. The Human Service Donations Fund is for persons under age 60 who lack financial
resources for emergency situations.
During 2018, the Division received a $10,000.00 donation from the Fulchino Family Trust. A
portion of the donated funds were used to make improvements to the Pleasant Street Center in
accordance with the Needs Assessment.
Human Services Donations 2018 beginning balance = $5,096.00
Human Services Donations 2018 ending balance = $11,075.00
Elder Services Donations 2018 beginning balance = $43,692.00
Elder Services Donations 2018 ending balance= $46,609.46
Holiday Programs
Adopt-a-Family
Once again, the Reading Rotary Club and ReadingCARES coordinated the Adopt-A-Family
holiday program. Elder/Human Services assisted them by verifying eligibility and distributing
28
food and gifts to families in need. The Adopt-a-Family program matches low income Reading
families with confidential donors of food and gifts for children. This past year, 96 donor groups,
families, and individuals made donations of food and gifts to the Adopt-A-Family program.
During Thanksgiving 54 families received food baskets and during Christmas 55 families received
baskets.
Thanksgiving/Christmas Baskets
The Social Worker supplies the Wakefield Elks with a list of 12 seniors who would welcome
receiving a basket of a complete holiday dinner.
Hitching Post Gift Shop Giving Tree
For the third and final year the Division partnered with the Hitching Post Gift Shop. Through the
Center, seniors were able to refer friends and neighbors for the giving tree. The division staff
coordinated the names and gift suggestions and anonymously submitted them to the Hitching Post.
Shoppers to the gift shop selected the seniors and purchased gifts. In 2018,there were 45 recipients
in the program.
Council on Aging Home Delivered Meals
During Easter,Thanksgiving,Christmas and August,the Council on Aging delivered 35 individual
holiday dinners to residents in need. The Council works with individual businesses within the
community to sponsor the meal and they are delivered by Council members as well as staff.
Council on Aging Board
The Council on Aging is a 10-member advisory board. They meet the second Monday of the
month September through June. The role of the Council is to aid the department in promoting the
needs of Reading Seniors. The Council is also responsible for overseeing the Burbank Trust Fund
and Patrons for Older Adults Trust Fund. The purpose of these funds is to help subsidize the
activities of the Department to the benefit of Reading seniors.
Health Division
The mission of the Health Division is to educate,promote, improve and protect the public health
and well-being of the citizens of the Town of Reading, while contributing to building a healthy
community and environment in which to live. Under the Commonwealth of Massachusetts
General Law and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Federal Public Health
Laws, the Health Division is mandated under a dutiful obligation to develop and implement
health policies, standards, bylaws and regulations. The Division is also obligated to conduct
inspections and provide public health services to the community.
Functions
The Division enforces local, state and federal public health laws, rules and regulations. The
Division promotes, educates, offers and enforces the following: disease and injury prevention,
immunization clinics, responses to bacterial illnesses, monitoring of disease outbreaks, health
education and prevention programs, health advisories, health and wellness programs, nutrition
and fitness information, tobacco control programs, environmental protection, responses to health
hazards, ensuring water quality, monitoring of waste disposal, investigations into noise and air
29
pollution, animal health, health monitoring, enforcement and ensuring of health and safety codes,
health care access, and emergency preparedness and response.
Other public health functions include enforcement of the following local, state and federal codes,
regulations and State & Federal statutes: Town of Reading Board of Health Regulations, Town
of Reading Code of Ordinances, Commonwealth of Massachusetts Mandated Enforcement of
Massachusetts State Sanitary Code(s), Commonwealth of Massachusetts Mandated Enforcement
of Massachusetts State Statutes —Chapter 111 Public Health Laws, Commonwealth of
Massachusetts Mandated Enforcement of other Massachusetts General Laws & Statutes,
Commonwealth of Massachusetts State Mandated Requirements & Inspections, U.S. Federal
Mandated Requirements, Inspections and Trainings,U.S. Department of Health and Human
Services (HHS) and Department of Food and Drug Administration (FDA) — The 1999 Federal
Food Code, and Health Departments Other Mandated Requirements, Services & Inspections.
2018 Permitting
The Health Division issued a total of 547 permits in 2018, as follows: under Title V - Well;
under the Food Protection Program—Food Service/Retail, Temporary, Residential, Mobile,
Church, and School; under Community Sanitation— 19 Animal/Barn/Beaver, 0 Body Art, 4
Summer Day Camp, 247 Dumpsters, 228 Food, 8 Private Wells, 8 Septage Hauler, 4 Septic
Abandonment, 1 Tanning, 9 Tobacco Establishment, 19 Portable Toilets.
Accomplishments
The Division sustained a high level of public health services, maintained policies and procedures
on accountability and transparency, and executed a cost savings policy.
Community Health Services
• Maintained compliance with the Massachusetts Department of Public Health 105
CMR 300.00 "Reportable Diseases Isolation& Quarantine" requirements and
immunization clinics and screenings for reportable infectious and communicable
disease control investigation.
• Sustained Public Health Nursing services.
• Provide Influenza clinics.
• Issued 705 residential vaccinations.
• Sustained Influenza vaccinations for Reading home bound residents.
• Sustained compliance with Massachusetts Virtual Epidemiologic Network which is a
web-based disease surveillance and case management system.
• Sustained compliance with MAVEN review and investigation of all reportable
infectious and communicable diseases.
• Reviewed summer recreational camp applications of more than 1,346 campers and
counselors for required immunizations, physicals and CORPS/SORT'S.
• Sustained educational community information on opioids abuse and prevention.
Food Protection Program
• Maintained full compliance with the Massachusetts Department of Public Health 105
CMR 590.000 - Food Protection Program by ensuring compliance with annual food
30
service establishment inspections, code compliance, monitoring and investigation of
all food borne illness outbreaks.
• Conducted 262 routine Food Establishment Inspections.
• Conducted 123 Re-Inspections.
• Conducted site plan reviews for new food establishments.
• Between housing, nuisance, and food, only 32 complaints were documented.
Community Sanitation Program
• Maintained compliance with the Massachusetts Department of Public Health -
Community Sanitation Division for:
• 105 CMR 410.00 Minimum Standards for Human Habitation;
• 105 CMR 430.000 Minimum Standards for Recreational Camps for Children;
• 105 CMR 435.000 Minimum Standards for Swimming Pools;
• 105 CMR 123.000 Minimum Standards Tanning Salons;
• 105 CMR 335.000 Treatment of Persons Exposed to Rabies;
• 105 CMR 460.000 Mass Regulations for Lead Poising Prevention Control;
• MGL Ch. 111 s 131 Investigations into Public Health nuisances (Noise, air and odor
pollution.
Environmental Health
• Maintained compliance with the Massachusetts Department of Environmental
Protection 105 CMR 15.00 - for all On-Site Sewage Treatment and Disposal Systems,
Grease Traps and Private Wells.
• Sustained new weekly Arbovirus/Mosquito Control Information and community
statistics.
• Sustained Arbovirus/Mosquito Control surveillance.
• Sustained preventive maintenance by adult and larval mosquito control and ditch
maintenance.
• Developed a new educational seminar to the residents of Reading community on Tick
borne illness-Lyme disease.
• Sustained tobacco control compliance with the Commonwealth of Massachusetts
Health Communities and Board of Health Tobacco regulations.
Emergency Preparedness
• Maintained compliance with the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Office of
Preparedness and Emergency Management.
• Met all FYI State & Federal Public Health mandated deliverables required by the
MDPH- Massachusetts State Public Health Department for the Region 3B Public
Health Coalition.
• The Coalition meets monthly to continuously prepare for emergencies and to discuss
Department of Public Health's updated information.
Animal Control Division
31
• Maintained compliance with the Massachusetts Department of Public Health 105
CMR 300 & 330 Division of Animals regarding the keeping of animals, rabies
control, and mosquito control.
Weights &Measure Division inspections for 2018
• Maintain compliance with Massachusetts Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation
Division of Standards.
• Achieved full State Compliance Consumer& Merchants Protection Act, Chapter 295.
• 33 businesses inspected and checked; 425 scale certificates of compliance issued.
• 13 gas stations inspected and checked; gas meter certificates of compliance issued.
2019 Goals
The Health Division will continue to work with the Board of Health, Town staff, volunteers,
elected officials, and community partners to support the essential functions of public health for
the Town of Reading. This work includes:
• Monitoring the Town's public health status to identify community health problems.
• Diagnosing and investigating public health problems and environmental health hazards.
• Informing, educating, and empowering the community about public health issues.
• Mobilizing community partnerships to identify and solve public health problems.
• Developing policies and plans that support Town residents and community health efforts.
• Enforcing public health laws and regulations that protect the health and wellness and
ensure safety of the community.
• Directing the community to needed personal public health services and assure the
provision of health care when otherwise unavailable.
• Assuring a competent public health and personal healthcare workforce.
• Evaluating effectiveness, accessibility, and quality of individual and population-based
health services.
• Researching new ideas and innovative solutions to public health problems.
Division staff will also maintain:
• Involvement with the community in helping assist in public health issues such as opioid
abuse, addiction and treatment services.
• Adequate community public health services.
• Participation in the 3B Public Health Coalition.
• On-going efforts as part of the Healthy Communities Tobacco Collaborative.
• Outreach into the community to promote awareness of emergency preparedness for
emerging public health issues including pandemic flu, bioterrorism, natural disasters and
emerging diseases.
Board of Health
In accordance with M.G.L. Chapter 41,the Board of Health is comprised of three (3) appointed
officials by the Select Board; these positions are three-year terms with one member being
appointed annually. The Board of Health holds monthly meetings. Additional meetings are
scheduled if required. In 2018, the Board of Health members were: Kevin Sexton — Chairman,
32
Emmy Dove —Vice Chair, Eleanor Shonkoff- Member, Lara Romanowski —Associate, Heidi
Pfeifer—Associate, John Costigan—Chairman (through 10/25/2018).
In 2018,the Board of Health was staffed by Laura Vlasuk—Health Agent,Nicole Nichols—Public
Health Nurse (part-time), Maria Tamagna — Public Health Nurse
(part-time), Kammy Demello — Health Inspector, John Fralick — Health Inspector (part-time),
Robert Bracy—Health Inspector(part-time), Kristen Grover—Administrative Specialist.
RECREATION
The mission of the Reading 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 Recreation Division must continually update and modify its
programming to meet the current needs of the community. As the community's participation in
and awareness of local recreational programs increase, so do their expectations of Recreation
Division programs. The Recreation Division must be ready to anticipate and adapt to these growing
expectations and trends.
Jenna Fiorente is the Recreation Administrator and has worked for the Town for 7 years. She has
worked hard surrounding herself with seasonal staff members who she trusts and knows will do a
good job for the Division when called upon. Jenna is also responsible for managing playground
and field projects as well as renting out all of the fields in Town. In 2018, she facilitated the
Barrows Playground Improvement Project which extended the playground out and added a
traverse wall. The Recreation Administrator continues to work with leaders of the sports
organizations to develop other field opportunities within what is already provided. Ideally,adding
lights to existing fields is the best way to expand field usage.
The Recreation Administrator is also the liaison to the Recreation Committee and the Birch
Meadow Master Plan Subcommittee, where she records and submits Public Meeting minutes. The
Recreation Administrator and these committees work together to increase the effectiveness and
efficiency of the Reading Recreation Division.
Sue Simeola has been with the Recreation Division for 10 years. She is the Senior Administrative
Assistant of the Division. Sue handles many of the records for the Division including payment
plans, outstanding balances, medical records, CORI records,Payroll, etc. Sue also helps out with
events such as travel basketball tryouts and pre-fit night, Halloween parade and Downtown Trick
or Treat. In 2018, Sue took over payroll for all of Public Services. Sue handles much of the face-
to-face and other customer services and is the glue of the Recreation Division.
The Division was budgeted for a part-time Program Coordinator. Shannon Fratto was hired in May
of 2018 and has done wonderful job learning about all the current programs in Recreation. Shannon
has also found some great new programming to offer to the community. She is a tremendous asset
to the Division. The Recreation Administrator and Senior Administrative Assistant still help to
facilitate and run programs due to the high demand of activities. In the future, the Division hopes
to have a full-time Program Coordinator position placed back into the budget.
33
The Reading Recreation Division has been glad to offer the public over 400 recreational programs
and events throughout the past year. The most popular programs are Saturday Night Lights Flag
Football and Recreation Summer Camp. Reading Recreation 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.
VETERANS' SERVICES
The Veterans' Services Office is the main point of contact for advocacy and support of veterans.
A full range of benefits and services are available to veterans and their families based on certain
qualifications and eligibility requirements. State Veterans' public assistance is mandated by
Chapter 115, Mass. General Laws, 108 CMR Commonwealth of Massachusetts Regulations.
This program assists eligible Veterans and their families with income maintenance, medical care,
and emergency services. The number of beneficiaries and expenditures has remained level.
Through continued outreach, new residents have been identified and are now receiving benefits.
At the same time, some individuals have been removed from the rolls due to non-qualification
and through VSO assistance in finding employment or financial assistance through other State or
Federal programs. The State repays 75% of these costs in the following fiscal year through State
aid payments.
Applications for federal benefits are processed through this office, coordinated with the regional
office of Department of Veterans Affairs and various Veterans Administration medical and
support facilities. Utilization of VetraSpec, internet Veteran claims management software,
greatly improved claim submission times and accuracy resulting in quicker decisions by the VA.
Demand for these services is steadily increasing to include claims for Service Connected
Disabilities, veteran, dependent and survivor pensions, Aid & Attendance, Dependency and
Indemnity compensation, medical and death benefit entitlement. In the past year, Reading
residents received over $3.8m in compensation and pensions from the VA.
The VSO provides outreach to veterans to ensure they are aware of and utilizing additional State
benefits to include tuition waivers, motor vehicle benefits,property tax exemptions, annuities
and bonuses, counseling, employment assistance, housing assistance and many more. Our goal
is to accurately identify and obtain necessary assistance in a timely manner that veterans and
their family have earned and deserve. The VSO provides outreach during the Reading Lions
Club Reading Friends and Family Day, the Fall Street Faire, New Residents Open House and
other public information gatherings. He attends school functions and works with scouting
programs to promote overall awareness and appreciation of Veterans and their sacrifices.
The Veterans' office coordinates public ceremonies on Memorial Day with services at all four
Reading cemeteries, and Veterans Day ceremonies throughout the Town. This past September,
the Town honored 28 Korean War Veterans at the Parker Middle School with the presentation of
the Korean Ambassador for Peace Medal presented by Mr. Yonghyon Kim, Consul General of
the Republic of Korea.
34
The Veterans group "Scuttlebutt" continues to be a very popular gathering. The meeting is held
the first Thursday of each month, at 10:00 AM at the Pleasant Street Senior Center. It is open to
all Veterans and those interested in Military history. Members enjoy the comradery of fellow
sailors and soldiers, share sea stories and other personal experiences, learn and discuss the
Military history of the month, and enjoy guest speakers and historical movies.
The Veterans' Services office hours are Monday, Wednesday and Thursday, 7:30 AM —5:30
PM. Tuesday 7:30 AM —7:00 PM. Home and off-hour appointments are available upon request.
You may reach Kevin Bohmiller at: 781-942-6652 or lcbohmiller(&ci.readin .ma.us.
Mystic Valley Elder Services
In FY18 603 Reading residents used Mystic Valley's services valued at $3,416,651. Of these,
97 were eligible for Nursing Facility care while remaining at home.
Mystic Valley Elder Services is a nonprofit organization, which has been helping people find
practical solutions to long term care issues since 1975. Our goal is to help seniors, disabled
adults and their family caregivers find the best available services that fit within family resources.
We offer a wide range of services creatively designed to support the challenges of daily life and
independent living. Some are free of charge, others are offered on a sliding fee scale or private
pay basis.
Information &Assistance: Resource consultants offer FREE advice and referrals from our
extensive database of local, state and national resources. Assistance is available by telephone,
email or a home visit by an experienced Care Manager.
279 Consumers served at a Cost of$25,960
Care Management& Home Care Services:
A range of programs for seniors designed to provide assistance with activities of daily living
(bathing, dressing, etc.) for those who wish to remain in their own homes. Includes: in-home
assessment by a care manager, development of a care plan, and delivery of approved services.
279 Consumers served at a Cost of$3,176,121
Caregiver Support: Services may include an in-home assessment, caregiver training and
education regarding such areas as memory loss, home safety, respite care and fall prevention.
Provides useful resources especially for working and long distance caregivers.
12 Consumers served at a Cost of$13,802
Meals on Wheels: A mid-day meal and daily check in by a friendly driver for those over 60 who
are homebound and unable to prepare their own food.
18,301 Meals served at a Cost of$136,602
Senior Dining Sites: Centers in 20 locations offer seniors an opportunity to meet and enjoy a
nutritious lunch. Ethnic meals are available.
4,047 Meals served at a Cost of$29,720
35
Behavioral Health Services: Clinical Caseworker provides outreach and connects consumers to
behavioral health services in home and community settings. The program provides assistance
with coordination and payment of behavioral health services.
17 Consumers served at a Cost of$15,524
Minority Outreach: Services for non- and limited-English speakers include information and
referral, translation of and assistance responding to important documents, health insurance
information counseling, and English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) classes.
4 Consumers served at a Cost of$602
SHINE Health Benefits Counseling: Trained counselors provide seniors with no-cost,
confidential counseling and unbiased information regarding health insurance and prescription
drug options.
297 Consumers served at a Cost of$5,716
Money Management Assistance: Trained volunteers provide assistance with bill paying,
budgeting and banking tasks. A volunteer may also serve as a Representative Payee.
7 Consumers served at a Cost of$8,612
Volunteer Program: Dedicated volunteers augment the agency's capacity by sharing their
expertise with a variety of professional and administrative functions,providing bill paying
assistance to elders, counseling Medicare and MassHealth recipients, staffing congregate meal
sites and/or food pantries, and serving as literacy tutors in area elementary schools.
24 Volunteers performing 1,444 hours of service
Legal Assistance: No-cost legal assistance and education on issues such as public benefits,
landlord tenant disputes and loss of independence.
9 Consumers served at a Cost of$3,188
TRIP Metro North:
A free,passenger-controlled transportation program open to older adults and adults living with
disabilities.
1 Consumer served at a Cost of$80
Trails Committee
Throughout 2018, the Trails Committee continued its mission of planning, developing and
maintaining the trails of Reading, which connect residents to the many natural features the Town
has to offer. The Committee sponsored or joined a number of events including: a Winter Walk
in Bare Meadow in January, Earth Day in April, and Friends & Family Day in June. The
Committee met six times in 2018 and attended Select Board, Conservation Commission, and
Walkable Reading meetings another five times.
Thanks to the hard work of members and volunteers, the Committee was able to conduct
multiple visits to the Maillet and Alligator Alley sites; do trail cleanups and maintenance in the
Maillet, Higgins, Bare Meadow, and Kurchian Woods Conservation Areas; reblaze Town Forest
trails; and lead two Tot Walks. All told, over 80 hours of volunteer time were tallied.
36
In September, the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation awarded the
Reading Trails Committee a Recreation Trails Grant to build the Aberjona River Headwaters
Trail at the Maillet Conservation Area. The funds will be used to construct two bridges, 40 feet
of boardwalk, and 90 feet of bog bridge throughout the conservation area. The grant totals
$11,640 and work will proceed through 2020.
The Committee continues to focus on key projects which include the trail and infrastructure
improvements throughout the Maillet Conservation area, and work on a proposal for a Bare
Meadow habitat study.
The Select Board voted to re-extend the Trails Committee through June 30, 2021.
37
FINANCE DEPARTMENT
The Finance Department, under the direction of the Town Accountant, supports a wide variety of
financial and administrative functions. The Finance Department staff are designed to be flexible
and experienced in many of these divisions, as work flows vary throughout the year:
a.) Accounting: The Accounting Department is responsible for maintaining financial records.
These records facilitate the preparation of financial reports and schedules that provide meaningful,
accurate information for comparability and for management's decision making process. The
Accounting Department ensures that all financial transactions are in compliance with legal
requirements and are properly recorded on a timely basis. The Town used the auditing firm of
Melanson & Heath in FY 2018.
b.) Assessors: Assessment of property is the first step in the process of tax revenue collection for
the Town of Reading. The Assessment division's function is to provide for the fair and equitable
assessment of all taxable real and personal property. A three-member Board of Assessors sets
policy.
c.)General Finance: Collections is responsible for collecting all taxes and other charges (including
ambulance and water/sewer/storm water bills). They also receive and process all deposits (such as
schools and recreation). Treasury is responsible for providing the cash for the operation of all
Town, School and Light Department functions on a timely basis. In addition, it conducts all
borrowing and investing activities, including those on behalf of the Town's Trust Funds (assisted
by the Trust Fund Commissioners).
Finance: Assessment Division
Assessment of property is the first step in the process of tax revenue collection for the Town of
Reading. The Assessment Division's function is to provide for the fair and equitable assessment
of all taxable real and personal property. The Assessors trend the values each year so that the
revaluations done every three years won't result in substantial changes. The Assessors must
annually determine the tax levy and obtain State approval of the tax rate so that bills can be issued
in a timely manner.
The tax rate for FY 2019 was set at $14.23 per thousand for residential and $14.48 per thousand
for commercial, a $0.36 increase per thousand from the FY 2018 rate for residential and $.56
increase for commercial. The total assessed value of all properties and accounts for FY 2019 is
$5.193 billion which is a 6.5% increase from the previous year.
The breakdown of Reading roe for FY 2018 is as follows:
Assessed Value Share Change
Residential $4,799,025,435 92.4% +6.9%
Commercial $ 333,243,565 6.4% +.80%
Industrial $ 11,136,400 0.2% +1.7%
Personal $ 49,493,290 1.0% +10.4%
TOTAL $ 5,192,898,690 1 100.00% +6.5%
38
Finance: Collection Division
The Collection Division is responsible for collecting all taxes and other charges (including
ambulance and water/sewer/storm water bills). This Division also receives and processes all
deposits (such as schools and recreation).
Massachusetts does not allow Towns to pay any charges associated with electronic collection of
tax bills —such as a flat fee or credit card fee. Debit card usage is comparatively inexpensive, and
an economical method to pay online.
Electronic Payments (*to 12/31/18)
CY18* CY17* CY16* CY15* CY14
Registered Users 61300 6,300 5,481 4,847 4,250
Electronic Payments 13,235 5,325 4,300 1 3,606 3,218
Municipal lien certificates have decreased due mainly to more mortgage companies paying
overdue balances of homeowners to avoid liens. Foreclosures dropped off from a high in 2008, in
sharp contrast to economic measures nationally.
Municipal Lien Certificates Foreclosures (Foreclosure deeds recorded at
*Fee increased 121112010 the Regisof Deeds as of 12/31/18)
Issued Fees 2018 1
FY18 696 $38,100 2017 8
FY17 918 $44,250 2016 10
FY16 773 $41,350 2015 3
FY15 786 $42,000 2014 2
FY14 702 $37,600 2013 6
FY13 1251 $66,450 2012 5
FY12 1170 $61,400 2011 10
FY11* 1107 $40,525 2010 18
FY10 859 $24,875
FY09 969 $26,901
FY08 743 $22,350
Real estate taxes collected were $66.2 million — a 3.8% increase from the $63.8 million in the
previous year. Personal property taxes collected increased to $0.612 million from $0.490 million;
and Excise tax collections increased to $3.98 million in FY18 from $3.72 million in FY17.
Finance: General Division
This Division is responsible for providing the cash for the operation of all Town and School
functions on a timely basis. In addition, it conducts all borrowing and investing activities,
including those on behalf of the Town's Trust Funds.
Interest earnings for the General Fund during FY18 were only $785,756 — a few years ago this
figure was about$1.7 million before interest rates began their historic drop.
39
General Finance - Trust Funds:
FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017 FY 2018
Beginning Balances $9,125,527 $9,289,189 $9,556,486 $9,679,907 $9,917,213
Contributions $115,146 $130,471 $98,048 $147,727 $116,257
Disbursements (1P275, 68) (1269,343) (I0)1,176) (I ,695) (1290,997)
Interest $323,783 $406,169 $326,549 $389,274 $388,880
Ending Balances $9,289,189 $9,556,486 $9,679,907 $9,917,213$10,131,353
The Trust Funds disbursed over $1.44 million in the past five years as shown in the table above.
The Hospital Trust Fund continued to provide aid through the Reading Response Program, which
provides skilled health care services, respite care, medical transportation and Lifeline Emergency
call systems to Reading residents who meet specific health and income guidelines.
Ending Ending Ending Ending Ending 1-year
Balance Balance Balance Balance Balance Change
FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017 FY 2018
Cemetery $4,021,156 $4,169,742 $4,251,156 $4,419,110 $4,566,581 3.3%
Hospital $4,302,000 $4,408,337 $4,466,461 $4,529,404 $4,573,768 1.0%
Library $59,095 $61,692 $63,814 $66,397 $69,013 3.9%
Scholarships $172,384 $171,706 $168,174 $166,477 $188,281 13.1%
Veterans Memorial $119,634 $122,613 $116,544 $117,066 $120,701 3.1%
Downtown Imp $37,363 $37,378 $39,593 $49,035 $51,241 4.5%
Celebration $43,923 $45,853 $42,863 $42,286 $41,453 -2.0%
Historic $79,409 $83,331 $79,080 $82,286 $85,727 4.2%
Preservation
Elder Services $427,823 $428,271 $423,727 $428,012 $429,540 .4%
Loans $26,401 $27,561 $28,509 $19,202 $16,008 -16.6%
Respectfully submitted,
Sharon Angstrom, CPA
Town Accountant
40
Board of Assessors
The mission of the Reading Assessment Department is to provide fiscal stability by promptly,
fairly and equitably determining the valuation of all real and personal property located in the
Town of Reading. The Assessment Department is obligated under law to assess all property at
its full and fair market value as of January 1 of each year for the purpose of taxation. This is
accomplished through the maintenance and administration of all property tax data records. In
addition, the department also administers motor vehicle excise tax, real,personal and motor
vehicle excise tax abatements, and all statutory tax exemptions as allowed by law.
Our staff is comprised of an elected three-person board and three full-time employees.
Board of Assessors: Office Staff:
Michael Golden, MAA, Chairman Victor P. Santaniello, MAA, Dir. of Assessments
Robert N. Marshall, MAA Phil Canniff, Assistant Appraiser
Brenden Zarechian 2 Clerks
During the past year, the major activities undertaken by the Assessors office include:
• Provided online access to our property record database via the internet.
• Conducted a state mandated interim revaluation of all properties.
• Reviewed and adjusted properties to reflect updated market conditions.
• Completed a revaluation of all personal property accounts and canvassed town for
new accounts.
• Maintained and updated all real estate and personal property tax records.
Implemented Reading Senior Circuit Breaker Program.
Special projects and future goals of the Assessment Department include:
• Manage ongoing state-mandated data recollection effort.
• Continue review and update of valuation neighborhood designations.
• Continue ongoing sales verification questionnaire mailing program.
• Implement new and efficient office policies and procedures as required.
• Maintain supplemental assessment program as required by state law.
• Update existing tax maps.
• Make select state tax forms available via the internet.
• Increase public awareness relative to assessing and exemptions.
FISCAL YEAR 2018 TAX RATE SUMMARY
Total amount to be raised $110,737,042.18
Total estimated receipts $43,474,774.00
Residential Tax Rate: $13.87 Commercial Tax Rate: $13.92
Real Property Valuation $4,829,515,292
Personal Property Valuation $44,836,110
Total valuation of taxable property $4,874,351,402
Total real estate tax $66,638,149.53
Total personal property tax $624,118.65
Tax levy $67,262,268.18
41
FISCAL YEAR 2018 RECAP SUMMARY PAGE 1
Property Levy Percentage Valuation by Tax Levy by
Class Class Rates Class
Residential 92.0057% $4,461,701,473 13.87 $59,602,187.78
Exempt - - -
Open Space 0.0000% 0
Commercial 6.8402% $330,600,339 13.92 $4,601,956.72
Exempt - - - -
Industrial 0.2265% $10,947,800 13.92 $152,393.38
SUBTOTAL 99.0724% $4,829,515,292 - $66,638,149.53
Personal 0.9276% $44,836,110 13.92 $624,118.65
TOTAL 100.0000% $4,874,351,402 - $67,262,268.18
MINIMUM RESIDENTIAL FACTOR COMPUTATION(FY2018)
Class Full and Fair Cash Value Percentage Share
1.Residential $4,487,967,153 92.0057%
2. Open Space 0 0.0000%
3. Commercial $330,600,339 6.8402%
4.Industrial $10,947,800 0.2265%
5.Personal Property $44,836,110 0.9276%
TOTALS $4,874,351,402 100.0000%
Minimum Residential Factor .999268 Shift: 1.008500
(MR')
ASSESSMENT/CLASSIFICATION REPORT—FY2018
Property Type Parcel Class 1 Class 3 Class 4 Class 5
Count Residential Commercial Industrial Personal Prop.
Value Value Value Value
101 6,549 $3,666,153,000
102 1,374 $487,481,400
Misc.103,109 12 $7,753,800
104 307 $163,273,700
105 25 $14,519,100
111 - 125 35 $121,194,900
130-132,106 214 $8,468,800
300-393 201 $317,592,400
400-452 15 $10,947,800
Ch.61 Land 3 $554
Ch.61 A Land 0 0
Ch.6113 Land 3 $1,198,938
012-043 27 $19,122,453 $11,808,447
501 164 $5,218,580
502 181 $9,723,480
503 0 $0
504,550-552 3 $17,174,900
505 3 $10,705,000
506 1 $1,026,400
508 4 $987,750
TOTALS 9,121 $4,487,967,153 $330,600,339 $10,947,800 $44,836,110
REAL&PERSONAL PROPERTY TOTAL VALUE $4,874,351,402
TOTAL VALUE OF ALL EXEMPT PROPERTY $310,260,200
42
LOCAL EXPENDITURES
Total appropriations $109,296,809
Other Local Expenditures $0
Snow and ice deficit/Overlay deficits $0
Allowance for abatements and exemptions $689,151.18
Total state and county charges $718,801
Total cherry sheet offsets $32,281
Total of appropriations and expenditures $110,737,042.18
ESTIMATED RECEIPTS AND AVAILABLE FUNDS
State cherry sheet estimates $14,141,948
Ma school bldg. auth $0
Local estimated receipts $9,513,827
Enterprise fiends $14,010,284
Free cash $3,846,186
Other available fiends $1,862,529
Offset receipts $0
Total: $43,474,774
STATUTORY EXEMPTIONS
Clause FY 2017 FY 2018
Hardship 5- 18 $0 $0
Deferral 5—4 1 A $0 $5,112.12
Elderly 5—41C $13,500 $13,000
Veterans&Surviving Souses 5—22 a- $71,112.52 $111,980.68
Surviving Souses 17D $2,800 $1,050
8-58 $0 $0
Blind 5-37 $7,000 $5,500
Reading Senior Circuit Breaker $361,514.66
183 Granted
BETTERMENTS,SPECIAL ASSESSMENTS&LIENS
Category Total Committed Amounts by Category
Light Liens $3,142.44
Sewer Liens $158,534..92
Water Liens $145,009.04
Storm Water $7,810.54
Sewer Betterments $1,941.48
Various Interest $64,222.87
Sewer Pipe Maintenance Lien $265.00
Total Committed $387,811.82.29
Motor Vehicle Excise(Comm. 1-6,99) 25,182 Bills $4,028,379.29
Respectfully submitted,
Board of Assessors
43
PUBLIC SAFETY
Fire Department
The Reading Fire Department is responsible for four major functions: fire suppression, fire
prevention, the emergency medical system and emergency management. This Department is also
responsible to coordinate and apply for all reimbursements for State and Federal disaster
declarations.
The Fire Department has 48.5 full time employees and 3 part-time employees who maintain the
municipal fire alarm system. Administrative functions are performed by the Fire Chief,
Assistant Fire Chief, Fire Prevention Officer and Department Secretary.
There are four Firefighting groups. Each group has a Captain, Lieutenant and 10 Firefighters
and their primary focus is on the delivery of emergency services, training and routine fire
prevention inspections. Each day the on duty group staffs two engines, a ladder truck and an
ambulance.
The Reading Fire Department provides emergency medical treatment to sick and injured patients
at the Advanced Life Support level (ALS) of care. This is the highest level of pre-hospital care
available and we are continually expanding this program as the budget permits.
Emergency Management continues to expand in importance. The primary goal for Emergency
Management is to identify areas of vulnerability to the community, to prepare for all disasters
whether natural or manmade, to coordinate the response of a wide range of agencies and assist in
the recovery phase. A secondary goal is to ensure 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.
Emergency Activity:
In 2018 the Fire Department responded to 4,025 emergency calls for assistance. Emergency call
volume has increased 4.5% from 2017 to 2018. Of the total emergency responses 2,368
involved some level of emergency medical response. A review of our Massachusetts Fire
Incident Report data indicated we responded to 58 fires defined as structure fires, 5 fires in
mobile equipment and 21 outside fires. All of these fire incidents were required to be reported to
the State Fire Marshal.
Significant Events:
On March 8, 2018 just after 5:30 a.m. a fire broke out in an occupied home located at 232 Salem
Street. The fire occurred during an ice and snow storm and required a 2 alarm assignment to
bring the fire under control. Firefighters from Wakefield, Stoneham, Woburn and North Reading
responded to assist in fighting the fire. Firefighters from Melrose, Wilmington and Burlington
covered our fire stations and responded to routine calls for assistance during the fire.
On April 12, 2018 at 6:47 p.m. a fire broke out at an occupied home located at 13 Berkeley
Street. There were two elderly occupants at home when the fire occurred and they were able to
self-evacuate prior to the arrival of Firefighters. This fire spread quickly. When Firefighters
44
arrived on scene, a heavy volume of fire was extending out of the windows on two sides of the
home and had spread to the second floor. A total of 3 alarms where required to bring in
sufficient resources to extinguish the fire. Firefighters from Wakefield, Stoneham, Woburn,
North Reading, Melrose, Wilmington, Burlington, and Lynnfield responded to assist in fighting
the fire. Firefighters from Andover, Saugus, Winchester and Lawrence covered our fire stations
and responded to calls for assistance during the fire.
On May 16, 2018 at 9:18 p.m. a fire broke out in a home located at 24 Putnam Road. The fire
originated in the kitchen area and spread into the attic. The fire required a 2 alarm assignment to
bring the fire under control. Firefighters from Wakefield, Stoneham, Woburn and North Reading
responded to assist in fighting the fire. Firefighters from Melrose, Wilmington and Burlington
covered our fire stations and responded to calls for assistance during the fire.
Reading Firefighters responded to our neighboring communities to assist in extinguishing several
structure fires, some examples include:
On September 13, 2018 Reading Firefighters responded to Andover to assist with multiple
structure fires caused by a high pressure gas emergency. While in Andover they responded to
several calls including a basement fire. Reading Firefighters initially responded to Andover on
the 3rd alarm and then became part of Metrofire Structural Task Force 13E. Each structural task
force has 6 engines and 2 ladder trucks. Andover had two structural taskforces operating out of
the Andover High School parking lot during the event.
On October 23, 2018 Reading Firefighters responded to assist the Wakefield Fire Department in
extinguishing a 7 alarm fire in the First Baptist Church located on Lafayette Street. This was a
large fast moving fire that was difficult to extinguish due to the age and construction of the
building.
Assistance to Firefighters Grant:
In August of 2018 we received a Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER)
Grant. This a Federal grant program that was created to provide funding directly to fire
departments to help them increase the number of trained, front line firefighters available in their
communities. The grant pays for a portion of the community's cost to hire additional
Firefighters. The grant period is for three years and under the terms of the Grant, FEMA will
pay 75% of the cost of 4 Firefighters for 2 years and 35% of the cost of 4 Firefighters for third
year. Total value of grant is $980,820 and there is a local funding requirement for a portion of
the grant. Reading's required share is $375,981 and the Federal share is $604,839.
Emergency Medical Services:
The Reading Fire Department provides 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.
45
Our emergency medical program is coordinated by Firefighters Joseph Lapolla and John
Keough. We receive clinical oversight and direction from Dr. Alec Walker from Melrose
Wakefield Hospital.
In June 2018 all personnel received training using the Department's high fidelity simulation
manikins. These computerized simulation manikins are very sophisticated and allow Firefighters
to increase their knowledge and skills in treating patients who have high risk medical issues.
The units are also being used to meet our Medical Director's requirement that all EMT's and
Paramedics received quarterly airway skills training.
In May 2018 we launched a public training program called Stop the Bleed. This program was
started as a result of a donation we received from the Young Women's League of Reading that
was used to purchase a Stop the Bleed Training Kit. This kit gave us the tools to enable us to
deliver a stop the bleed training program to the public.
Total ambulance responses and ambulance transports continue to trend upward. In calendar year
2018 Firefighters responded to 2,368 total emergency medical incidents and this represents a
4.1% increase over 2017 responses. Below in Figure I is a graph of ambulance responses from
2010 through 2018:
Ambulance Responses
2500 .........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
2000 ........................................................................
1500 .........
1000 .........
500 .........
0 ..........
2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018
Figure I
Although ambulance responses have increased, ambulance revenue is down slightly from 2017
levels. In Fiscal year 2018 $766,543 was collected in ambulance revenue. Ambulance revenue
received for medical treatment is variable based upon the patient's insurance coverage, level of
treatment and the services provided. Below in Figure 2 is a graph of ambulance revenue from
2010 through 2018:
46
Ambulance Revenue
1000 000 .......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
800,000 ..........................................................................................................................................................................................................................
600,000 ............
400,000 ............
200,000 ............
0 ............ �......... �......... �......... �.........
FY 10 FY 11 FY 12 FY 13 FY 14 FY 15 FY 16 FY 17 FY 18
Figure 2 ....
Emergency Management:
Emergency Management is an active segment of the Department. Housed within Reading's
Emergency Management System are three components, Emergency Management, the Local
Emergency Planning Committee and the North East Homeland Security Region (NERAC).
NERAC is one of the 5 Massachusetts homeland security regions created by the Executive
Office of Public Safety.
Federal and State legislation requires every community in the country to have a Local
Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC) or to be part of a regional planning committee. 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.
To pool resources the Town of Reading has joined with other communities and formed the
Mystic Regional Emergency Planning Committee. The Mystic Regional Emergency Planning
Committee has grown to twenty-two member communities and is designed to facilitate the
sharing of resources in the event of an emergency. The Mystic Regional Emergency Planning
Committee has achieved Full Certification Status by the Massachusetts Emergency Management
Agency.
The Reading Fire Department has developed a Hazardous Materials Emergency Plan to meet
both Federal and State statutory planning requirements. For the Town of Reading the Fire Chief
is the Local Emergency Planning Committee Chairman.
Keeping current with State and Federal requirements is required to remain eligible for
reimbursement of expenses when a Presidential Disaster Declaration is granted. Since 2001 we
have seen an increase in storm events being eligible for reimbursements due to Federal disaster
declarations. Over this period the Town of Reading and Reading Municipal Light Department
have received a total of$1,393,577 in reimbursements for emergency response and damage to
infrastructure. Below in Figure 3 a is graph indicating the year and event Town of Reading
received reimbursement under a Federal Disaster Declaration since 2001.
47
FEMA Reimbursements
400,000 ...........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
350,000 .............................................................................................................................................................................................................................
300,000 .............................................................................................................................................................................................................................
250,000 .............................................................................................................................................................................................................................
200,000 .............................................................................................................................................................................................................................
150 000 .................................................................................
100,000 ..............................................
50,000 ...........
.........rv......... .........rv.........�.........rv......... L........
Ar
1 1
ti ti ti �QO �p1 ti ti ti ti
Figure 3
We are currently in the process of creating a new Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan
for the Town of Reading. When the plan is completed it will replace our existing Electronic
Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan (ECMP)that was stored online by a system
maintained by MEMA. This format is no longer supported and as a result the plan required
replacement.
The Town of Reading received an Emergency Management Performance Grant for $6,100. This
grant was used to purchase incident command aids and other equipment that would be used by
Firefighters and Police Officers to respond to a critical incident.
Fire Prevention:
All Department personnel perform fire prevention duties. More complex and technical fire
prevention duties are assigned to the Day Officer. This position is staffed by Captain Richard
Nelson and he 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. In 2018 the
Department conducted 1,084 inspections and monitored several building renovations. Major
projects include the Prescott Street Residential Project, 407 Main Street, Postmark Square and
School House Condominiums.
For existing buildings, the Day Officer is responsible to ensure all life safety systems are
maintained properly. Other areas of responsibility include ensuring the safety and code
compliance of flammable and combustible product storage.
Regional Initiatives:
48
Captain Richard Nelson and Firefighter Scott Dole are both active members of the Essex County
Technical Rescue Team. This is a highly trained team with specialized tools and training to
handle a wide range of rescue operations. The team is trained to rescue victims trapped in
confined spaces, trench collapse, high angle and building collapse.
Firefighter Stephen Pelrine is an active member of the Massachusetts District 2 Hazardous
Materials Team. This team is highly trained and responds regularly to a wide variety of
hazardous material releases, and potential releases,to support and assist local Fire Departments.
SAFE and Community Education:
Our community education program consists of our school based SAFE Program and the Senior
SAFE Program. Funding for these programs is provided by two State grants that total $6,923.
Captain Mark Dwyer is coordinating the Senior SAFE program and Firefighter John Jenks is
coordinating our school program.
The SAFE program is funded by a$4,308 grant and features Reading Firefighters who are
trained as SAFE educators. These Firefighters visit each school classroom of Kindergarten
through grade 5 to deliver the fire safety and anti-smoking message. Firefighters use a 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 lifesaving skills in a controlled setting
that is not possible to duplicate in the classroom.
Our Senior SAFE program is funded by a $2,615 grant that is designed for senior
citizens. Statistically, seniors have a high rate of fire injuries and our program has been designed
to increase the safety of this population. This year Captain Dwyer gave several group
presentations, made home visits to the elderly and assisted needy elderly residents with the
installation of smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
Fire Alarm:
The municipal fire alarm system in Reading is in good condition. This is a direct result of the
planning, care and maintenance given to the system by our dedicated Fire Alarm Technicians,
Michael Holmes, Brian Ryan and Bruce Ayer. When appropriate, we are connecting new and
remodeled buildings to the municipal fire alarm system to ensure a rapid response to an incident.
In addition to servicing and maintaining the municipal fire alarm system, the Fire Alarm
Technicians put up and take down the Town of Reading's flag display and Christmas decorations
on the decorative light poles in Reading Square. These displays take a considerable amount of
time to install and remove.
Personnel:
This year we had several changes in personnel. Garrett Antanavica was promoted to Captain and
Firefighters Christopher Smith and Nicolas DeRoche were hired and completed the recruit
training program at the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy. Administrative Assistant Cindy
Keenan retired after more than 36 years with the Town and Firefighter Michael Belmonte retired
after 24 years.
49
Conclusion:
Over the last year we have striven to make advancements in all areas of the Department. We
have increased the level of training for our personnel, introduced new technology and equipment
and aggressively pursued resources through public safety grants. The Advanced Life Support
Program has been expanded to all fire apparatus and continues to provide Reading residents with
the highest level of emergency medical care in this area. The condition of our fire apparatus is
excellent and this increases our efficiency and capability at the scene of any emergency.
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
50
Reading Fire Department
Roster
Chief of Department
Gregory J. Burns
Assistant Chief:
Paul D. Jackson
Captains:
Paul F. Guarino Richard L.S. Nelson
Peter L. Marchetti Garrett Antanavica
Mark F. Dwyer
Lieutenants:
Scott Myette Anthony Delsignore
Eric Blackman Brian Ryan
Firefighters:
Patrick Wallace Dana Ballou Daniel Pouliot
Stephen Pelrine Thomas McCarthy John Keogh
Robert Beck Sean Devlin Matthew Berger
Stephen Murphy Bruce Ayer Brian Yeager
David Robidoux Paul Dalton John Messer
David Gentile Ryan Buckley Eric Bagby
Michael Belmonte^ Joseph Lapolla Robert Forsey
Michael Wood Paul Damocogno Eric Beaulieu
Scott Dole David Ferreira Brian Roche
John Jenks Steven Binari Jonathan Dyer
Paul Roy Robert Loring Christopher Smith
Derek Loftus Robert Drake Nicholas DeRoche
Secretary
Cynthia M. Keenan"
Karen Hammond*
Promoted to fill vacancy *Hired to fill vacancy ^Retired
Fire Department Statistics for 2018
Permit Fees collected (FY 18) $24,240
Ambulance Fees Collected(FY 18) $790,921
Total Emergency Responses (CY 18) 4,025
Emergency Ambulance Calls (CY 18) 2,368
Inspections (CY 18) 1,084
51
Police Department
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.
This report summarizes the participation, activities, sponsorships, enhancements,
accomplishments, and other notable events of the Reading Police Department in Calendar year
2018.
Personnel Changes:
The following personnel changes and adjustments were experienced by the Police Department in
calendar year 2018.
January 2018
■ Officer Anthony F. Caturello retired after 32 years of service to the department.
■ Officer Laura M. Bullis retired after 6 years of service to the department.
March 2018
■ Stephen T.Pelland was hired as a Patrol Officer and attended the MBTA Municipal Police
Academy.
■ Paul C. Peoples was hired as a Patrol Officer and attended the MBTA Municipal Police
Academy.
April 2018
■ Officer Mark Mullen resigned after 8 years of service to the department.
May 2018
■ Susan H. Murphy was hired as an Executive Assistant.
June 2018
■ Victoria Cummings retired as the Administrative Assistant after 30 years of service to the
department.
July 2018
■ Officer Matthew B. Vatcher became a School Resource Officer.
■ Joshua P. Graciale was hired as a Patrol Officer.
52
■ Brendan J. MacEachern was hired as a Patrol Officer.
■ Cody Z. Costa was hired as a Patrol Officer.
■ Joshua W. Griffith was hired as a Patrol Officer and attended the Lowell Municipal Police
Academy.
■ Donna M. Beaulieu was hired as a Senior Administrative Assistant.
August 2018
■ Dispatcher Kevin Edmonds resigned after 2 years of service to the department.
■ Joanne Power retired as the Administrative Assistant after 21 years of service to the
department.
September 2018
■ Robert P. Toussaint was hired as a Patrol Officer and attended the MBTA Municipal Police
Academy.
■ Christopher M. Briere was hired as a Patrol Officer and attended the MBTA Municipal
Police Academy.
October 2018
■ Dispatcher Jennifer Antczak resigned after 3 years of service to the department.
■ Patrick Sullivan was hired as a Public Safety Dispatcher.
■ William McDaniel was hired as a Public Safety Dispatcher.
■ Michael Penta was hired as a Public Safety Dispatcher.
November 2018
■ Erika S. Ballard was hired as a shared Police and Fire administrative assistant.
Awards, Recognitions and Other Noteworthy Events:
March 2018
■ Detective Derek Holmes received the Police Officer of the Year award from the Chamber
of Commerce.
December 2018
■ AAA Southern New England presented the Reading Police Department with The Gold
Award of Excellence—recognizes achievements in traffic safety.
■ Lt. Christine Amendola received the Traffic Hero Award for her commitment to traffic
safety in the Town of Reading.
53
Patrol Division:
The Reading Police Patrol Division is the core of policing services in the Town of Reading. The
Patrol Division falls under the command of Lieutenant John T. McKenna during daytime
operations and Lieutenant Kevin M. Brown Jr. on nights. The Patrol Division is comprised of 2
Sergeants and 8 Patrol Officers during the day; and 5 Sergeants and 12 Patrol Officers on nights.
It currently operates 13 marked vehicles; 7 Ford Police Interceptor's; (5 Marked Patrol cruisers, 2
SRO cruisers and 1 Safety Officer cruiser), 2 Chevy Tahoe's (1 Patrol Supervisor Unit and 1 Low-
Profile Marked Patrol unit). There are also 2 Crown Victoria's (1 Swat unit, 1 Detail cruiser). The
last is an unmarked Ford Expedition for utility use. In addition to standard patrol vehicles, the
Reading Police Department's Patrol Division also uses 4 pedal bikes and from time to time will
augment patrol as well as unmarked units.
The Patrol Division is the most visible section of the police department,providing around the clock
service to the citizens and visitors to Reading. They are the uniformed officers who provide the
first line of defense for the public's safety. Each law enforcement patrol officer works to protect
life and property, uphold the civil rights of individuals, preserve public peace, provide citizen
assistance, enforce criminal and motor vehicle laws, and respond to emergency situations. These
officers are dedicated and committed professionals who place their lives and well-being in
jeopardy for the citizens of Reading on a daily basis.
The men and women of the Patrol Division are responsible for: enforcing state and municipal laws
and regulations designed to protect life and property; maintain order in an assigned sector or beat;
patrol the community to preserve the peace and to prevent crime; take criminal reports and
interview witnesses and suspects; apprehend fugitives and criminals; collect evidence and give
testimony in court; conduct investigations for all misdemeanor and many felony cases; direct
traffic, issue traffic citations, investigate accidents, and make arrests; participate in crime
prevention, public information, and safety programs. Patrol officers maintain closer contact with
the public than any other section of the police department.
Most likely, the first person the public meets will be the uniformed patrol officer. The men and
women of the Reading Police Department's Patrol Division take great pride in serving the citizens
of Reading. The Patrol Division is the backbone of the police department. In 2018, the Patrol
Division issued 4,574 moving violations, made 156 arrests, filed 407 criminal complaint
applications, and answered 23,226 calls for service throughout the Reading Community.
A total of 1,986 reports were written and 531 motor vehicle crashes were investigated. The Patrol
Division responded to 1,096 alarm calls, 351 suspicious person calls and 238 suspicious motor
vehicle calls.
The Patrol Division is responsible for managing many quality of life issues. In 2018 the division
responded to 357 mental health related calls, 63 calls for suicide attempts and threats to commit
suicide, 28 overdoses, 143 calls involving alcohol, 31 calls involving opiates, and 173 calls
involving other drugs. The division responded to 14 calls for missing adult persons and 17 calls
54
for missing juveniles,filed 20 orders with the Department of Children and Families as required by
MGL ch-119-s51A for child abuse and or neglect.
The Reading Police Department also maintains specialized units functioning within the Patrol
Division. Two of these are the Mountain Bike Operations Team and the Rapid Response Team
which are overseen by the Day Shift Patrol Division Commander.
The Mountain Bike Unit is comprised of 8 Officers who operate the 4 pedal bikes, which work on
various shifts. These Officers are able to respond quickly to areas differently from the traditional
response vehicle and also offers another level of Community Service by being in the public view
on an additional plane.
The tactical professionals of the Rapid Response Team (RRT) are Patrol Officers who are part of
Northeastern Massachusetts Law Enforcement Council (NEMLEC). These officers are activated
into a team with other surrounding cities and towns on a moment's notice. These Officers have
further expertise designed to assist, access, and mitigate extremely volatile situations by making
use of specialized equipment and additional manpower. The Reading Police Department currently
has two Patrol Officer's that are part of NEMLEC RRT and one of the officers is assigned to the
highly trained SWAT Team.
Each section of the Reading Police Department is designed to work separately and augment the
other departments to achieve the collective goal of maintaining a safe community. This is achieved
by regular operations of all divisions and delivering customer service via daily interactions with
the public and utilization of community policing initiatives.
Detective Division:
The Detective Division is the liaison of the Police Department to other law enforcement agencies
including other local police departments; the Massachusetts State Police; the Registry of Motor
Vehicles; the Attorney General's Office; and the County District Attorney's Office along with the
Reading Public Schools, Austin Preparatory School as well as the Northeast Regional Vocational
School in Wakefield.
Outlined are a number of activities the Detective Division was involved in for 2018.
■ The Detective Division handles all court matters including processing the court paperwork
for all arrests, summons, hearings, restraining orders, citation appeals, and any other
pertinent issues that deal with the court. The Division makes all officer notifications for
court appearances, gives information on the status of on-going cases. In addition, the
Division is responsible for all discovery requests by the Commonwealth and Defense,
which requires a significant amount of time to compile. All juvenile cases that meet the
standard for diversion are monitored to make sure all of the obligations set forth for the
juvenile are met.
■ Major Crimes the Detective Division investigated this past year included Sexual
Assaults/Rapes, B&E's, Larcenies, Sudden Deaths/Suicides/Overdoses, Child Enticement,
Missing Person, Possession of Child Pornography, Narcotic Investigations, multiple
55
reports from DCF, Frauds, and Cyber-Crimes. In addition, the Detective Division reviews
all patrol reports, and conducts investigations on numerous other types of crimes.
■ The Detective Division Commander, and the appointed Evidence Control Officer are the
custodians of and accountable for the control of all property retained as evidence and stored
in the department's Evidence Room.
■ The Detective Division registers and monitors all Level 1, 2 and 3 Sex Offenders that live
and/or work in Town. In addition, Detectives makes the required community wide
notifications.
■ The Detective Division reviews all new/renewal or change in manger applications for
Alcohol Licenses or any modifications for existing licenses. Over the past several years as
the town's business district as has grown, the number of license applications, license
transfers, and change in manager applications has increased substantially.
■ Detectives conducted alcohol compliance checks of all licenses and completed surveillance
patrols to monitor underage drinking violations throughout the year. Compliance checks
were conducted two times in 2018 with zero violations for `sale to a minor'. Since police
compliance checks were launched in 2008, the average pass rate is 96% for local liquor
establishments.
■ The SRO's continue to be involved with "Community Based Justice" which brings all
interested parties together to discuss current student issues which are involved at some
level with the court system.
■ The SRO's and Detective Division held numerous ALICE (Alert, Lockdown, Inform,
Counter,Evacuate)trainings with all school personnel,and conducted ALICE drills in each
school in the district and Austin Prep. As this program has become more established in the
school system, the schools are taking on more responsibility in conducting these exercises
on their own.
■ A Detective continues to work with FBI to their, "Organized Crime Drug Enforcement
Task Force". With this assignment, he works on numerous high level narcotics
investigations both locally and nationally.
■ A Detective serves as a member of the Southern Middlesex Regional Drug Taskforce.
Conducting narcotics investigations within Reading as well as surrounding communities.
■ In January of 2014 the Detective Division activated the Reading Police Department's
Facebook. We currently total to 4,978 followers. In addition, the Division has been
maintaining the Department's Twitter page. The Twitter page currently has 10.7K
followers, up from 10.5K in 2017. In 2016 our Twitter account was "Verified" through
Twitter. The verification is used to establish authenticity of identities on Twitter and helps
users discover high-quality sources of information and trust that a legitimate source is
56
authoring the account's Tweets. This accomplishment is highly sought after and difficult
to obtain. Besides those that follow us directly, our messages get shared to thousands more
on a regular basis. These pages allow the Department to get important public safety
information out quickly including information on; road closures, special events, press
releases, weather related concerns, Level 3 Sex Offender notifications, and safety tips. We
have seen a significant increase in communication with citizens and other agencies
contacting us through these sites.
■ Detectives processed 142 anonymous tips via the Department's Text-a-Tip program in
2018. Crime tips were related to drug activity, domestic violence, juvenile protection,
school safety, unlicensed firearms, animal protection, noise complaints, impaired driving,
cyber-crimes, harassment, neighborhood concerns, and traffic safety.
■ The SRO's participated in monthly RCASA Board of Directors meetings and quarterly
special events. SRO's assisted with drug paraphernalia awareness.
■ Detectives worked in conjunction with RCASA to collect and properly destroy prescription
drugs through the "RX Round-up"program. This past year 8,869 bottles was collected and
destroyed compared to 8,211 in 2017.
■ Detectives are responsible for compiling crime statistics for numerous types of reports and
grant obligations throughout the year.
■ Detectives are responsible for maintenance and technical issues for the Departments
Crossmatch fingerprint machine.
■ Members of the Detective Division attended many training programs in the areas of,
cybercrime investigation, search warrant preparation, domestic violence, drug and
narcotics investigatory techniques, legal updates, and prosecution.
■ Detective Muolo attended the first Massachusetts Top Gun Class for Undercover Narcotics
Investigators from September 16th -22nd
• Lt. Det. Abate represented the Detective's Division to present diversion highlights at the
Middlesex DA Eastern Opioid Task Force in December.
■ Background investigations were conducted for new Officers and Dispatchers.
Detective Criminal Investigations = 158
Support Services Division:
The Reading Police Department is here to serve the Town of Reading and we look forward to
continuing our existing efforts and are always looking for more opportunities to work with you,
our community, to address criminal activity, traffic and safety problems, quality of life, and
community development issues in the Town. The Police Department strongly promotes the
philosophy of"working with the community".
57
The Support Services Division is staffed with a division commander Lieutenant Christine
Amendola. In the Support Services Division are the Traffic and Safety Officer, the Community
Service Officer, the Armorer, the Parking Enforcement Officer, the Animal Control Officer, an
Administrative Assistant, Domestic Violence Advocate, and the Crossing Guard Unit. The
Support Services Division oversees all department training, equipment, and vehicles.
The unit has two new members and positions this year. The first is a domestic violence advocate,
which is sponsored by a grant from the organization Respond. Sammi Salkin is the DV advocate
and has followed up with over 100 domestic violence cases since starting this June.
The second new position is an administrative assistant working for both the police department and
fire department. Erika Ballard was hired in November for this position. Erika will assist the
Support Services Division in the license to carry process, public record requests, and other
administrative tasks as needed.This year,the department saw a major increase in the public records
requests. We had 464 public record requests in 2018. We have also had a very steady increase in
the license to carry applications. In order to not fall behind in the two very important areas, we
needed to create this new administrative assistant. In the few weeks Erika has been here, it has
already been a tremendous help in the process of the license to carry applications. Erika will also
be attending public records law classes soon and will be put right to work on the requests.
The Department sponsors or participates in a number of community events and/or programs.
The following are a number of those:
Community Service:
■ The Police Department is represented on the Human Relations Advisory Committee
(HRAC)by Deputy Chief David Clark.
■ CSO O'Shaughnessy partnered with the Middlesex Sheriffs Office to educate the Senior
Citizens at various locations about protection from existing and emerging scams known as
the L.E.A.R.N Program.
■ The department offers the "Coffee with a Cop"program locally. Citizens are invited to join
police officers for coffee and discuss any issues of concerns. There were three successful
events during the past year.
■ CSO O'Shaughnessy became a member of the Respond High Risk Team which is
responsible for follow up care on all high risk domestic violence cases.
■ Under the Support Service Division,the department has a domestic violence advocate from
Respond, to follow up on domestic violence concerns.
■ CSO O'Shaughnessy is an active member of the towns Human&Elder Affairs Committee.
She also schedules monthly lunches at the Senior Center,which provides them a chance to
speak to the police and keep updated on certain crimes they are at risk for.
■ The department instructed two Rape Aggression Defensive (RAD) programs for women,
training over 50 women in self-defense.
■ Held Annual Police Open House in May. The department was open to the public for tours.
The Lions Club provided child safety kits. There were many police vehicles to observe
and other various activities for the children.
58
■ The Support Service Division hosted a blood drive in coordination with the Kraft Family
donation center for Dana Farber Research and The Brigham and Women's Hospital.
■ The division ran the Citizen's Police Academy, which was a nine week academy and
graduated over 29 individuals.In this academy citizens are invited to learn about all aspects
of policing here in Reading. It is a great interaction between the residents and officers.
■ CSO O'Shaughnessy conducted the Child's Bike Helmet Incentive Program. In
coordination with local businesses, officers were able to reward children for wearing their
required bike helmets with either a free pizza or ice cream ticket.
■ In June, the Department participated in Friends and Family Day held at Birch Meadow.
■ The division participated in the Law Enforcement Special Olympics torch run.
■ In October, the Department, in conjunction with its labor unions organized its annual
Senior Ham and Bean Supper at the Senior Center.
■ The Support Service unit participated in the Middlesex DA's Office safety event in
Woburn, Wilmington's night out, and Burlington's Safety Night.
■ Many department personnel participated in the No-Shave November and raised serval
thousand dollars for the Veteran Red Sox Homebase Foundation. The department
continued to raise money in December, "Don't shave December" for the Reading Food
Pantry.
■ CSO O'Shaughnessy participated in two Cops for Kids with Cancer donation events.
Traffic and Safety:
■ Throughout the year, the Department participated in the Governor's Highway Safety
Bureau's "Click-it or Ticket" program. This program is an intensified traffic enforcement
effort subsidized by a grant that targets specific traffic issues, such as seat belt use, or
impaired operation.
■ In September, the Department was awarded a grant to participate in the Governor's
Highway Safety Bureau's Pedestrian Crosswalk Safety Initiative ($2,250). The officers
stopped motorists who failed to yield to the decoy
pedestrian in the crosswalk. The campaign raised pedestrian awareness and educated the
motoring public on crosswalk safety. Forty traffic stops were executed; yielding 40
citations.
■ Safety presentations were conducted for Little Treasures Pre-School,Joshua Eaton School,
Wood End School, and for various Cub Scout packs.
■ Reading Police Station tours conducted for various Brownie Troops and Cub Scout Troops.
■ Traffic assistance was provided for many town events, including: The Barrows School Fun
Run, Joshua Eaton's School Jaguar Jog, The Downtown Trick or Treat, Fall Street Fair,
Friends and Family Day, and St. Agnes Christmas Eve Mass, as well as many other private
events.
■ Safety Officer Scouten is a member of the Town's Parking Traffic Transportation Task
Force. He is accountable to bring all residential and business safety or traffic concerns to
the board. A total of 15 Work Orders were executed for new and replacement signage
throughout the town.
■ The Speed Alert Trailers were deployed to more than 70 locations in efforts to reduce
speeding motorists.
■ Attended all Design Review Team (DRT) meetings for the town to ensure safety at large
events in town or any construction project.
59
Firearms Licensing:
■ Armorer Patrick Dawley processed 363 gun licenses to include new firearms permits and
renewal applications.
Crossing Guards:
The school crossing guards are part-time, civilian personnel. Currently there are nineteen
permanently assigned crossing guards and three substitutes. They fill in when a regular crossing
guard is unable to cover his/her post. They are under the direct supervision, coordination, and
control of Safety Officer Michael Scouten. Each crossing guard plays an essential role in 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 150 calls for service received by the Animal Control
Officer. There were 11 dog bites over the year resulting in injuries to humans. There were 12 dog
to dog bites resulting in veterinary care. There were 15 bites over the year resulting from animal
of unknown origin (13 dogs and 2 cats). There was one cat bite to humans reported. There were
over 20 coyote sightings reported. Over 250 citations were issued to residents for failure to keep
their dog on a leash, failure to license their dog, for biting and disturbing the peace. The majority
of citations were for unlicensed dogs. There was 1 bat call which tested negative for rabies.
■ 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.
■ Inspect residential and licensed kennels that house four or more dogs.
■ Ensure that vaccinated 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.
■ Although the Animal Control Officer is not responsible for handling wildlife calls, he
evaluates such calls and assists where possible. He provides contact numbers for the
appropriate State or private agency to handle wildlife issues beyond the Town's control.
Parking Enforcement Officer:
The Parking Enforcement Officer is Ronald Burns. He 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.
60
■ Identify parking problem areas within the town and forward this information to the Safety
Officer.
■ Perform related duties as required.
Public Safety Dispatch
The Reading Public Safety Dispatchers deliver, through communications, a lifeline for the
community, Police Officers, and Firefighters. Ten full time Dispatchers are under the direct
supervision of Head Dispatcher Victoria Avery and under the command of the Night Shift Patrol
Division Commander Lieutenant Kevin Brown. Dispatchers provide support to the Officers,
Firefighters, EMT's, Paramedics, and other ancillary personnel within the departments, as well as
outside agencies to augment emergent and non-emergent operations via radio, phone, and
computer related activities. Dispatchers receive requests for information and services,triage based
on available resources and disseminate accordingly. Dispatchers manage 911 and administrative
calls, supply Emergency Medical pre-arrival instructions when necessary, and furnish customer
service and information to the public, and provide valuable service to our community.
The Dispatch team had positive staffing changes that brought new faces to the team, with the
staffing level now at 10.
Each year, Dispatchers participate in various trainings to expand their knowledge and present a
higher level of service.
Dispatchers issued 4,324 Community Access Stickers and are presently issuing both the Parking
and Compost stickers in the new format. The Communications Team also has two volunteers that
assist with issuing and entering the stickers.
The Dispatch section is the face of Reading Public Safety and in most cases, they are the first,
first-responders, and the initial interaction the public has with a Public Safety agency.
61
The following is the Department Roster, a statistical analysis of our enforcement efforts and a
record of revenues generated by our department for calendar year 2018.
READING POLICE DEPARTMENT
2018 ROSTER
CHIEF OF POLICE
Mark D. Segalla
DEPUTY CHIEF OF POLICE
David J. Clark
PATROL DIVISION
Lt. John T. McKenna Lt. Kevin M. Brown
SERGEANTS
Mark J. O'Brien Christopher R. Picco Christopher E. Jones
Patrick R. Silva Corey P. Santasky Justin P. Martel
Matthew C. Edson
PATROL OFFICERS
Christopher J. Voe elfin David V. Savio Michael R. Lee Keith D. Hurley
Salvi A. Lavita Sean M. Wilson Ian A. Nelson Erik W. Drauschke
Matthew J. Orr Ka 1 n A. Gooley Timothy L. Barrett Scott A. Craven
Andrew J. Kirwan Zachary T. Fontes Benjamin J. Stephen T. Pelland
Woodward
Paul C. Peoples Joshua P. Graciale Brendan T. Cody Z. Costa
MacEachern
Joshua W. Griffith Robert P. Toussaint Christopher M.
Briere
DETECTIVE DIVISION
Lt. Det. Richard P. Abate
Detectives:
Derek R. Holmes Michelle E. Halloran Robert J. MacHugh Jr
Michael P. Fitzgerald Michael A. Muolo
School Resource Officers: Brian P. Lewis Matthew B. Vatcher
62
SUPPORT SERVICES
Lt. Christine M. Amendola
Community Service Safety Officer Armorer/Fleet Maintenance
Officer
Kristen L. O'Shaughnessy Michael S. Scouten Patrick A. Dawley
Reading Police Department
2018 Ancillary Personnel
Administrative Support Staff
Executive Assistant Susan H. Murphy
Senior Administrative Assistant Donna M. Beaulieu
Administrative Assistant Erika S. Ballard
DISPATCHERS
Head Dispatcher Victoria Avery
Regina Saunders Susan Tapley Ran Mahoney Joseph Pa notta
Debra Haynes Christopher Finnegan Antonio De irolamo Nicole Jane
Patrick Sullivan William McDaniel Michael Penta
ANIMAL CONTROL OFFICER/PARKING ENFORCEMENT OFFICER
Ronald Burns
SCHOOL CROSSING GUARDS s=substitutes
Cindy Asci Cindy Branga Linda Burns John Cain Peg Faulkner
Bob Dewolfe James Hubbard Lucy Intonti Tina Lantz Marsha Leighton
Ann Lipchus Joe Lopiccolo Louann Kris McNiel Dick Prudente
MacKinnon
Rosemary Barbara Thomas Gardner Robert John Parsons (s)
Violante Wilson Matarazzo
Peter Claude Miller Carole Scrima(s)
Indrisano s s
63
Service Statistics calendar year 2018:
■ Arrests 156
■ Protective Custody 72
■ Motor Vehicle Citations/warnings 4,574
■ Parking Violations 1,690
■ Detective Criminal Investigations 158
■ Automobile Crashes Investigated 531
Fees Collected calendar year 2018:
■ License to Carry Permits $ 4,512.50
■ Firearm Identification Cards $ 50.00
■ Police Reports Copied $ 150.00
■ Parking Fines $ 39,591.00
■ Administrative Fees for details $ 54,974.95
■ Community Access Stickers $189,515.00
■ Parking Space Rentals $ 74,760.00
■ Civil Motor Vehicle Infractions $ 11,050.00
■ Community Room Rental fee $ 500.00
■ Motor Vehicle Lease Surcharge $ 2,658.60
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.
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,
David J. Clark
Deputy Chief of Police
64
Reading Coalition Against Substance Abuse (RCASA)
Reading Coalition Against Substance Abuse (RCASA) mobilizes community partners, residents
and youth to build collaborative approaches and reduce youth substance abuse. With grant
support, RCASA offers educational programs for residents in Substance Abuse Prevention,
Youth Mental Health First Aid and Active Parenting. To address substance use, RCASA staff
operates a juvenile diversion program in concert with the Reading Police Department and a
Chemical Health Education Program with the Reading Memorial High School. To increase
access to mental health services, RCASA sponsors the Interface Referral Service, operated by
William James College. Learn more at www.readin�.kl2.ma.us/communily/rcasa
HONORS-The National Drug Free Communities Evaluation Team acknowledged RCASA for
their strong partnership with the Reading Police Department including the Rx Round Up
Program, which has processed more than 46,000 Rx bottles since 2009. Sherri VandenAkker,
representing the RCASA Board of Directors, accepted the National Recovery Month Award in
Washington, D.C. in September for"2017 Reading Unites for Recovery Project''. RCASA was
one of three organizations in the United States to receive this special recognition. The event was
hosted by the United States Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration
(SAMHSA) and the National Council on Behavioral Health. Reading Rotary acknowledged
Erica McNamara, RCASA Director, as the recipient of the Club's first"Unsung Hero Award" at
the Rotary District 7930's first Unsung Hero Awards Night in November. Reading Rotary
selected Erica McNamara as a special person in our community who wakes up every morning
and puts others before herself and dedicates her work to helping others in need, truly embodying
the Rotary motto: "Service above Self." Reading Rotary also presented Erica McNamara with a
Paul Harris Fellowship Award, one of the highest honors Rotary can give to an individual.
FINANCE-The RCASA Director compiled federal reports for annual grant funding totaling
$125,000. The Town, School and Police Departments contributed match resources for RCASA's
office/meeting space, supervision and oversight. During this fiscal year, the RCASA Director
and Town Accountant filed the mandatory federal financial reports required by the funder.
Federal Grants Supporting RCASA Annual End
White House Office of National Drug Control Policy $125,000 9/30/19
The RCASA Director presented the Coalition's Sustainability Plan to the RCASA Board of
Directors in February. Tasks from the plan were addressed at meetings in March, April, May and
June. State Representative James Dwyer, an RCASA supporter submitted a request to add an
earmark to the state budget for $10,000 in annual funding to support RCASA's sustainability.
This year, RCASA accepted mini-grants/donations including--Young Women's League of
Reading ($1,000), Reading Rotary ($500) and the Reading Hospital Board of Trustees ($4,000).
The Mission of Deeds donated in-kind services and furniture to stage the RCASA's Hidden in
Plain Sight Exhibit at the Reading Police Department. Donated services included delivery and
pick up of bedroom furniture and accessories. In December, the RCASA Director provided a
brief budget presentation to the Reading Select Board and Financial Committee on proposed
town funding for RCASA in 2019-2020.
65
STAFF-This year, the RCASA staff included a full time Director and Part-Time Outreach
Coordinator. Staff members are employees of the Town of Reading and maintain an office at the
Reading Police Department. RCASA's Director oversaw fiscal management, public relations,
community planning, training, coalition communication, data collection, dissemination, reports
and program evaluation. RCASA's Outreach Coordinator disseminated educational information
through a variety of activities to both youth and adults. The RCASA Outreach Coordinator
completed annual continuing education requirements and renewed her Alcohol & Drug
Counselor Certification. The RCASA Director completed prevention training workshops with
the Massachusetts Bureau of Substance Abuse Services, the Center for Health& Safety Culture
and the National Council on Behavioral Health.
LEADERSHIP-The RCASA's Board of Directors met monthly and served as the core
leadership group for the coalition. The group included 24 members representing 12-plus
community sectors who live, work or attend school in Reading. The Town Manager, School
Superintendent, and Chief of Police all serve on the Board. The Board provided overall
governance, education,public relations and strategic plan guidance. The Town provided the
"Ethics Guide for Ballot Question Political Activity" to members. A full review of board by-
laws, coalition branding, budget needs and future feasibility was discussed by members. With the
federal grant ending, members determined it was prudent to have a legal review of the coalition's
organizational structure.
The Federal DRUG FREE COMMUNITIES GRANT goals and prevention activities are below:
RCASA GOAL 1: REDUCE SUBSTANCE USE among youth and, over time, among
adults by addressing the factors in a community that increase the risk of substance abuse
and promoting the factors that minimize the risk of substance abuse.
In October, Reading Memorial High School's Guidance Department and RCASA sponsored
Lynn Lyons, Guest Speaker on "The Worry Cycle: Strategies for Managing Anxiety" for 400
local parents, drawing the largest audience for an RCASA event for the year. During the year,
RCASA's Director facilitated 32 hours of Mental Health First Aid training this year certifying 38
adults in the Youth Module and 16 adults in the Adult Module. RCASA's Director conducted 10
presentations on Vaping Prevention reaching 80 adults including parents at middle and high
school PTOs, Austin Preparatory parents and Reading Public Schools middle school staff.
RCASA sponsored"Alex's Story: The Impact of Opioid Abuse" on April 5th for 594 students in
grades 11 and 12 at Reading Memorial High School. The Reading Peer Leadership Council of 20
students hosted "Alex's Story" and facilitated the question and answer session. RCASA's
Director and the School Resource Officer coordinated "Operation Opioid Prevention" workshops
reaching 165 Reading Memorial High School students enrolled in the freshman Health course. A
donation from Reading Rotary to support the "Operation Opioid Prevention" workshops paid for
the printing and binding of Teacher Educator Lesson Packets from the DEA/Discovery Channel,
for use in the next school year as well as Parent Guides, which were sent home with students.
From June to August, RCASA set up information booths at"Friends &Family Day", "The 2nd
Annual Jams for Jake Event" and the "Reading Fall Street Faire". William James College staff
66
attended the "Reading Senior Center Health Fair" and "Reading Memorial High School Back to
School Night" events in September to increase awareness of the Interface Referral Service.
The Reading Memorial High School Substance Abuse Screening Program for the Spring
Semester of 2018 was completed for 1 lth graders and the Fall Semester of 2018 for 9th graders.
Students were called down to the Nurse's office for confidential screening sessions with the lead
Nurse. Students that scored positive were provided with resources and referred to appropriate
services. RCASA's Outreach Coordinator provided the 650 screening tools, resource sheets,
entered data and offered referral resources. Based on how the 604 students from Grade 9 and
Grade 11 responded to screening questions,the Nurse provided educational info and positive
reinforcement for 585 students, conducted motivational interviews with brief interventions for
nine students and referred twelve students for additional services.
RCASA's Outreach Coordinator and the Reading Memorial High School Health Educator
facilitated the "Chemical Health Education Program" monthly at Reading Memorial High
School. Thirteen students completed the program. More students were referred for Chemical
Health Violations due to Vaping, more than any other substance. RCASA's Outreach
Coordinator conducted follow-ups with parents of students that completed the Chemical Health
Education Program. RCASA's Director worked with a High School student bi-weekly to plan the
"Dear 13 Year Old Me Video Project". RCASA's Director presented at the Reading Memorial
High School Child Development Course on "Substance Exposed Newborns" in the fall of 2018
reaching 23 students. RCASA's Director presented on"Substance Abuse" at the Reading Citizen
Police Academy educating 30 adults in November.
From January to November of 2018, "Reading's Interface Referral Service Program", provided
by William James College, served 80 Reading parents of elementary age children and generated
the second largest number of matches during this year. The most frequent requests in Reading for
mental health support were for Anxiety or Depression which is typical for most communities.
RCASA GOAL 2: IMPROVE COMMUNITY COLLABORATION among RCASA's
partners in support of the community's effort to prevent and reduce youth substance use.
Staff and law enforcement representatives participated in regional monthly meetings including
the Mystic Valley Public Health Coalition on Opioid and Alcohol Abuse, Eastern Middlesex
District Attorney's Task Force, and the Woburn Police Roundtable on Opioid Abuse. Staff
disseminated regional information to the community and board leaders to deepen their
understanding of current drug-related concerns. RCASA responded to 12 technical assistance
requests from other communities on how RCASA has developed our policies and programs.
Reading Police projects include the Reading Rx Round Up for 24/7 medication collection.
RCASA's grant sponsored the cost of the Citizen Observer"Text A Tip Program" for Reading
Police which allowed Detectives to process 142 anonymous tips in 2018 and paid for the
"Alcohol Compliance Program" Operatives. RCASA staff also worked with Reading Police on
special projects and data analysis on substance-related injuries.
67
Reading Memorial High School projects included the "Chemical Health Education Program",
"SBIRT (Screening, Brief Intervention & Referral to Treatment)Program", "Reading Peer
Leadership Council" and the "Operation Opioid Prevention Program with Reading Rotary".
Community projects included the "Hidden in Plain Sight Exhibit" with the Mission of Deeds,
Burbank YMCA and Reading Police.
RCASA contracted with William James College to offer the "Interface Referral Service" to
connect residents to outpatient mental health services with the funding support of RCASA grants
and Reading's Hospital Trust Fund.
COLLABORATIVE DATA PROJECTS-
1) The RCASA Director served as the 2019 Youth Risk Behavior Survey Coordinator and
assisted with the integration of Reading Public Schools into the John Snow Inc./Middlesex
League Survey Group process for the next regional survey planned in spring 2019.
2) The"Rx Round Up" kiosk continued to see an increase in drop offs from residents. In 2018,
8,869 Rx bottles were processed. This reflects a 7% increase compared to 2017. Since 2009,
residents turned in 44,445 Rx bottles.
3) To assess the impact of substance misuse and the number of opioid overdoses, RCASA
tracked police log reports, reviewed regional reports and death certificates. Reading Police
responded to 65 suspected drug-related overdoses in 2017-2018. Police handled 303 `Calls
for Service' in 2018 for Alcohol or Drugs including 52 DUI Offenses and 66 Drug
Violations. The 2016 Lahey Hospital & Medical Center Community Health Needs
Assessment, released this year, indicated that Reading was in the top 10 of cities/towns that
had a higher average rate of opioid-related emergency department visits (333 per 100,000)
compared to the Middlesex County rate (227) and state average (260). Death records in
Reading for 2010-2017 indicated that 58 residents died from substance-related causes with
33% dying from Acute Poly-Intoxication, 31% Alcohol, 28% Heroin/Fentanyl/Opiates and
8% Cocaine. Demographics for these substance-misuse deaths were 72% male, 28%female
and 96%were white. Reading death records indicated 89% of those that died from substance-
related causes were at least partially employed at the time of their death with 22% employed
in the trades and 20% in hospitality/food/retail.
4) RCASA partnered with the Mystic Valley Public Health Coalition to gather data including
death certificates for the latest regional needs assessment. The Outreach Coordinator
conducted key informant interviews on opioid abuse. The Director compiled survey data.
5) The RCASA Director coordinated with the Reading Public Schools Climate Director to
design a survey roll-out plan for the district to collect Pride Survey data from students,
teachers and parents of students enrolled in elementary, middle, or high school. Parents and
teachers in grades K-12 and students in grades 6-8 at both middle schools finished the survey
in June. Students in grades 10-12 completed the survey in September. Funding was provided
by the District. The RCASA Director served as Survey Co-Coordinator and worked with 9
Principals to initiate and monitor data collection. Substance misuse data will be incorporated
into RCASA's Need Assessment.
PUBLIC RELATIONS-We expanded our communication strategies using print, online and in
person approaches. RCASA staff used Twitter to increase event attendance including
Twitter.com/rcasal5 (210 Followers compared to 153 in 2017) and Twitter.com/ReadingPolice
68
(10.8K followers). We maintained the website at Reading Coalition Against Substance Abuse
(www.reading.I<12.ma.us/community/rcasa) with the support of Reading Public Schools and
continue to send out our newsletter(600 people). Local cable access taped the RCASA Annual
Meeting.
69
PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT
I am pleased to submit the 2018 Annual Report for the Department of Public Works.
I would first like to thank the Select Board and Town Manager Bob LeLacheur for their guidance
and support over the past year.
The Department is committed to providing excellent customer service, and high quality essential
municipal services to the residents, businesses, and visitors to Reading in an efficient and cost
effective manner. I would like to thank the supervisors and staff for their continued
professionalism, cooperation and dedication to this goal.
In 2018, the Department continued its goal of succession planning. DPW Director Jeff Zager
retired in September 2018. I thank Jeff for his 9 years of dedicated service to the Town of Reading,
and wish him a happy and healthy retirement. Jane Kinsella, former Assistant Director with 12
years of service with the Town, was hired as DPW Director. Christopher Cole, former Civil
Engineer with 15 years of service with the Town, was hired as Assistant Director. Mike
Hannaford, Parks/Forestry/Cemetery supervisor, was hired in May 2018 to complete the
supervisory team. Mike has been with the Town for several years as Parks/Forestry Foreman and
brings years of experience and expertise to the role. In addition, Michael O'Halloran was
promoted to Administrative Specialist, and fills the role of Cemetery Administrator, assisting the
division with administrative support for both cemetery and public works.
Department personnel were actively involved as members or liaisons to a number of committees
and Town wide events,such as the Fall Street Faire,the annual tree lighting ceremony,and Friends
and Family Day. DPW staff supported many projects and programs with the Town Forest
Committee, Town Trails Committee, Cemetery Board,the Conservation Commission, Recreation
Committee, Public Services, and Police and Fire Departments.
Public Works continued its focus on customer service with the use of "See Click Fix", where
residents can initiate requests for services, or report on issues that need attention, including
potholes, missing signs, hanging tree limbs, etc. The Department has also expanded its use of
social media to communicate with residents about non-emergency issues.
Staff members participated in a number of professional development/safety training programs
which included driver fatigue, chainsaw safety,back injury prevention,work zone safety,effective
communication in the workplace, and OSHA 10. Many of these programs were sponsored by
MIIA, the Town's insurance carrier, and support our goals of maintaining a qualified, highly
trained staff, reducing the town's insurance obligations, and keeping our employees safe in the
workplace.
The Department was extremely active in 2018 with many projects, programs, daily maintenance
work, and general services to the public. It is a testament to the excellent staff that works within
the Department that these projects were completed in a timely, cost effective manner, while at the
same time,performing the daily, routine tasks needed to serve our residents.
70
I am confident that in the year ahead this Department will continue on its path of excellence.
Jane C. Kinsella
Director of Public Works
Administration Division
The Administration Division is responsible for preparation and monitoring of the annual budget
and assisting all divisions with the development of the Capital Improvement Plan. This division
manages all payroll and accounts payable processing for the department, and cemetery
administrative services. The Administration Division responds to public inquiries and concerns
over all Public Works areas of responsibility.
Significant projects included:
• Project support and management oversite for contracts throughout the Public Works
divisions including highway projects and supplies; water and sewer main projects; fuel;
salt; snow and ice removal; and rubbish and recycling.
• Coordination of(2) Household Hazardous Waste Day collection events with the Town of
Wakefield.
• Coordination of(2)events for paper shredding,rigid plastic recycling,and(1)metal pickup
• Coordination of(5)town-wide leaf pickups
• Coordination of drop-off recycling for Styrofoam and electronics
• Overall facilitation of the Water Conservation Rebate Program including appointment
scheduling;rebate processing and tracking of high-efficiency washing machines, low-flow
toilets, and irrigation system rain sensors; and rain barrels.
• Reduction in the Town's rubbish disposal tonnage through significant strides to increase
recycling efforts. The Department has increased recycling efforts through continued
media and educational initiatives, which have led to new programs and new initiatives
being instituted.
• Oversight of the See-Click-Fix online portal, which enables residents to report issues such
as potholes, downed tree limbs, and water leaks. The system is monitored by the
Administration Division and work orders are routed to the Department's supervisors and
foreman in the field.
Emphasis continued on providing public information, responding to resident 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 2018.
Interments — 134 Interments for all years — 15,416
Markers set—62 Foundations —26
71
Sale of Lots
Forest Glen—4 lots in the Urn Garden, Total for all years —2,093 lots, 799 single graves.
Charles Lawn— 8 lots, 2 single grave, Total for all years 546 lots, 273 single and veterans graves.
Wood End — 26 lots and 2 single graves — Total for all years — 544 lots, 47 single and veterans
graves.
Cooperation from other divisions of Public Works 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.
Respectfully submitted—Michael Hannaford, Supervisor
Custodian of Veterans' Graves
Interments —WWII— 14 Korea— 10 Vietnam—7 Iraq-0 Peacetime—2
Total of all veterans interred— 1,936
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—Michael Hannaford, Supervisor
EnOneerin2 Division
The Engineering Division provides engineering services to all Departments within the Town of
Reading. The Division is responsible for:preparation of plans, contract documents, specifications
and estimates; survey layout, inspection, design and construction management of Town
construction projects; upkeep of traffic markings and traffic signals; review of subdivision plans
and site plans for accuracy and conformance with the subdivision and site plan 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, issuance of street addresses, updating 911 address records and the
issuance of various permits.
The division provided field survey,design and construction management services for the following
construction projects designed and completed during the year:
Roadway Improvements:
Prepared bids, provided project management and inspection for the resurfacing of 15 roadways
totaling approximately 3 miles and 1 parking lot consisting of the following:
72
Reclaim the following roadways:
• Fairmount Road(Hopkins Street to Kenneth Road)
• Harvard Street(Lowell Street to John Carver Road)
• Kenneth Road (Fairmount Road to end of public way)
• Orange Street(Pearl Street to Winter Street)
• Park Avenue (Minot Street to end)
• Spruce Road(Grove Street to Forest Street)
• Vine Street(High Street(northerly end)to Hunt Street)
• Winter Street(Salem Street to Orange Street)
Mill and overlay the following roadways:
• Arthur B. Lord Drive (Birch Meadow Drive to Forest Street)
• Baldwin Lane (Spruce Road to end)
• Forest Street (Arthur B. Lord Drive to Grove Street)
• Haverhill Street (Timberneck Drive to Route 95/129 rotary)
• Osbourne Avenue (Pleasant Street to end)
• Summer Avenue (Main Street to Hopkins Street)
• Walnut Street (Summer Avenue to Hopkins Street)
Mill and overlay the following parking lots:
• Town Hall
Sidewalk and Curb Installation and Repairs:
Designed plans, assembled contract documents,bid,provided project management and inspection
for the installation of approximately 350 linear feet(LF)of new granite curb and concrete sidewalk
on the following roadways:
• Elliott Street—Washington Street to Green Street
• Haven Street — 4339 Haven Street to John Street including handicap ramps, improving
ADA compliance.
Water Projects
Water Main improvements—During the year the Division worked with its consultant and designed,
bid, inspected and managed the start of a multi-year water main improvement project, which
consisted of the cleaning and lining of approximately 2.7 miles of cast iron water main. Work
under this project also includes a major culvert crossing, new hydrants and gate valves.
73
Location Project Limits Length Improvement Type
(feet)
Main Street Woburn St. to Mill St. 12,313 Clean & Line
Mill Street Main St. to Town Line 1,724 Clean & Line
Location Project Limits Length Improvement Type
(feet)
Main Street Culvert Replace w/ 12"
Crossing Main St. @ Percy Ave. 35 CLDI, sleeved and
jacked under culvert
• Uni-directional Flushing Program — worked with consultant to operate and manage the
Town's uni-directional flushing program. Completed this season with successful results.
The flushing program is anticipated to continue spring 2019.
• Main Street Water Main Culvert Crossing—drafted construction plans and assisted Town's
consultant in the design and MassDOT permitting of the water main culvert crossing.
Work is anticipated to begin spring 2019. Work associated with this project is included in
the Main Street Cleaning and Lining contract.
• Emerald Drive Water Booster Station Replacement—worked with consultant on the design
of the new booster station located on Emerald Drive. The booster station is designed to
increase pressure and flow in this area and eliminate the need for the Lothrop Road booster
station. By eliminating a station the Town will save on its annual operating cost and reduce
maintenance. Bid is anticipated June 2019 with construction the fall of 2019.
• Auburn Water Tank/Cell Carrier Relocation — attended several meetings with the Town's
design consultant and cell companies discussing possible design alternatives and the
Request for Proposal(RFP)for additional cell equipment and lease extensions. The Town
will be replacing the existing tank with a glass-fused-to-steel composite elevated tank. The
new tank will reduce maintenance and eliminate current structural issues. The Town will
be including the replacement of the water tank in its capital plan for year 2021. Associated
with this project would be the relocation of the cell carriers located on the Auburn Street
water tank site.
• Supplying MWRA water to North Reading through Reading's Water System — North
Reading has decided to pursue a different supply source.
• MWRA Hopkins and Louanis Valve Vaults — Engineering and Water Divisions worked
with a consultant and contractors to fully automate the valve vaults with the integration of
SCADA. This project was a result of the new MWRA 36" pipeline and is anticipated to
be completed February 2019.
• MWRA Reports —prepared quarterly reports for the above water main assistance projects
in accordance with grant/loan agreement.
Sewer System and I/I
• Charles Street Sewer Station Replacement—worked with consultant on the design and bid
documents, attended project meetings, reviewed construction submittals, inspected, and
assisted Town's consultant in the project management of the Charles Street sewer station
74
replacement project. The project started December 2018 and is currently under
construction.
• MWRA Phase 829 & 930 —Projects closed out with the MWRA.
• MWRA Phase 9 Construction Funding — worked with consultant and provided project
administration on the following portions of the $844,000 grant/loan assistance project:
o Final punch list closeout, which included permanent trench patching.
o Worked with MWRA to begin the closeout process.
• MWRA Phase 10 Construction Funding — worked with consultant and provided project
administration on the following portions of the $844,000 grant/loan assistance project:
o Rehabilitation of approximately 15,000 L.F. of sewer main, by means of cured-in-
place pipe lining.
o Television inspection of approximately 4,000 L.F. of sewer main.
• MWRA Reports:
o Prepared quarterly reports for above UI projects in accordance with grant / loan
agreement.
o Prepared annual I/I report.
o Prepared annual discharge permit application.
o Updated various MWRA water and sewer system questionnaires.
Parks & Playgrounds
• Joshua Eaton Elementary Schools — Engineering designed, bid and performed project
management for various parking lot improvements including drainage, curbing, paving,
and handicap accessibility. Construction was completed summer 2018.
Stormwater
• Working in cooperation with the Eastern Middlesex Mosquito Control Project the Town
cleaned and dredged approximately 600 feet of its drainage ditches.
• Haven Street — designed, bid and performed project management for the installation of
approximately 170 linear feet of new drain line on Haven St. from Linden St. to former
Post Office.
Stormwater Mapping, (National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System) NPDES and
(Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System) MS4 Assistance
The Town met with a consultant to review database updating procedures, field data collection
methods and asset management software. Developed and deployed a new outfall sampling GIS
iPad application that assisted in collecting vital information regarding structure condition as well
as required sampling analyses as part of the updated MS4 permit.
• The dry weather outfall sampling program successfully inspected and sampled 253 or
approximately 88% of Town owned outfalls. The remaining outfalls could not be safely
accessed and will be revisited next year.
o Of the 253 outfalls inspected only 42 (approximately 15%) were found to be
flowing and required sampling efforts.
Work continued on adhering to the requirements of the new NPDES MS4 Stormwater program,
effective July 1, 2018 including the submission of the Notice of Intent(NOI), which also included
75
sampling for Phosphorous for the first time. An updated outfall inventory was completed as part
of this process for each of the major watersheds within Reading. It was determined that the Town
owns a total of 287 outfall discharge structures. Additionally, the Town completed the annual
compliance report, upgraded system mapping, cleaned catch basins, assisted in the oversight and
enforcement of the Stormwater Management bylaw and IDDE bylaw. Public awareness and
participation included updating information via the Town's website, social media, school
presentations and flyers. The Division attended meetings with the Mystic River Stormwater
Collaborative, as well as various EPA meetings.
Miscellaneous Projects
• Traffic Markings — repainted approximately 75 miles of pavement markings including:
roadway centerlines, edge lines,stop lines, crosswalks,roadway stencils,parking stalls and
parking lot markings.
• Belmont Street to Ivy Lane Wetland/Stream Crossing — assisted Town's consultant with
the continued monitoring of the wetlands crossed during the water main installation, and
the required reporting under the following permits: Army Corps of Engineers 404 permit
and DEP Waterways 401 Water Quality Permit and Reading Conservation Commission
Order of Conditions.
• Conservation Notice of Intent/RDA —provide field survey, prepared plans, supplemental
documentation and completed application to receive a Notice of Intent/RDA for the
following projects:
o Annual Paving Program
Federal/State Projects
MassDOT
• West Street Roadway Reconstruction Project:
The project is now substantially complete. Incidental work related to punch-list items still remain
to be completed by the contractor. It is anticipated that the project will be closed out by MassDOT
in 2019
During the year the Division continued to perform daily inspections of the work, resolved utility
conflicts and held weekly progress meetings.
• Main Street/Hopkins Street Intersection —75%/100% designed
• MassDOT Reading Safety Audit/Road Diet — attended meetings and site walk with
MassDOT's consultant regarding the south Main Street corridor, including the proposed road
diet.
• MassDOT Rt. 28 (Main Street) Resurfacing — attended meeting and coordinated with
MassDOT for the repaving of Main Street (State owned) from Stoneham town line to North
Reading town line
MWRA
• Phase II-MWRA 36 inch diameter redundant water main: attendance at several meetings with
MWRA staff and consultant to review projects impacts and assist with the project management
76
decisions affecting the Town. The Town Engineering and Water Divisions provided resources
to help facilitate construction and maintain project schedules. Work is substantially complete.
Traffic Signal Maintenance
During the year the Division performed site and equipment investigations, and contracted
consultants and contractors to perform repairs to the following traffic signals:
Walkers Brook Drive at Newcrossing Road
• Replaced a faulty push button w/sign
• Replaced PED signal head; installed new pullbox cover
Main Street at Washington Street
• Removed damaged back plate
• Left hand turn arrow called when no vehicle was waiting, updated software and reset
controllers
Main Street and Salem Street
• Tightened signal pole base, replaced pedestrian push button, replaced signals, realigned
signal head and installed temporary signals after signal was hit at various times.
• Left hand turn arrow called when no vehicle was waiting, updated software and reset
controllers
West Street at Woburn Street
• Signal on flash, reset controller
West Street at South Street
• Removed rodent nest in PED signal and installed new PED LED lens; re-aligned signal
head
Main Street at Fire Station
• Repair traffic signal pre-emption, allowing the fire department to safely and efficiently
respond to emergency calls.
Interdepartmental Reviews
The Engineering Division performed engineering reviews of plans submitted to the Community
Planning and Development Commission, ZBA and Conservation Commission and performed site
inspections for site plan compliance, adherence to subdivision regulations and conformance with
DPW utility standards for the following private development projects, subdivisions and Town
projects:
1503 Main Street 364 Lowell Street
Reading Village 2 Prescott 95 Walkers Brook Drive
Randall Road 288-292 Grove Street
230 Ash Street 40 Grove Street
467 Main Street Tarrant Lane (Wakefield)
306 Main Street Lenetta Lane
77
285 Main Street Postmark Square
Lakeview & Eaton 40B
In addition to the above private developments the Division provided general oversight and field
inspected work performed by NGRID in the replacement of cast iron gas mains on the following
roadways:
Barrows Road Pilgrim Road
Haven Street Plymouth Road
Hunt Street Vine Street
Lowell Street Willard Road
Permitting and Utility Hearings
The Division reviewed and held public hearings for the expansion of public utilities for the
following:
Pole Hearings
• Martin Road
• Main Street
During the year the Engineering Division issued permits, performed utility mark outs and
performed construction inspections for the following:
Sewer Connections 36 Gas Permits 88
Sewer Disconnections 16 Street Occupancies 11
Sewer Repairs 14 Street Openings 44
Water Renewals 16 Driveway Permits 41
Water Connections 17 Jackie's Law Permits 75
Dig Safe Requests *200 Soil Test Inspections 8
*Quantity includes 8 gas main replacements, 15 road resurfacing/re-construction projects, Haven
Street drainage improvement project, Main Street water project, and Charles Street sewer pump
station replacement, all of which encompassed entire streets, or sections of streets. In addition, on
several of these projects, the areas had to be marked out more than once, throughout the duration
of the project.
78
Hi2hway Divison
The Highway Division at the Public Works Facility consists of eighteen employees: four
mechanics, one dispatcher and twelve staff members who maintain and repair the infrastructure of
the Town of Reading.
The regular projects such as street sweeping, catch basin repair (38), roadside cutting, sidewalk
and street maintenance (potholes), tree lawn repair, mixing and sifting loam and compost, traffic
control, street signs, (52)new signs installed, (98) which were replaced or damaged . Cleaning of
catch basins (approximately 1250), and ditches continued by priority and need. Street sweeping
was started on April 9, 2018, and finished on May 7, 2018. The new program for tracking catch
basin cleaning, sediment levels, and the condition of the structures continued this this past year
with completion slated for 2019.
Miscellaneous:
Oversee styrofoam and electronics recycling drop off center, Household Hazardous Waste Day,
paper shredding and rigid plastic recycling events, ADOPT-A-FAMILY in November and
December. Provided support for Friends and Family Day, the annual Fall Street Faire, traffic
control for Downtown Tree Lighting, and the Halloween Parade. Installation of brackets and
banners in the square, and maintained downtown street lights.
Vehicle Maintenance:
Repaired and serviced the equipment from Police, Fire, School, Building Maintenance, Council
on Aging, and Public Works Departments with 4 mechanics and more vehicles added each year.
We continued to take waste oil from the public during the week and on Saturdays, and did
emergency in the field repairs as needed.
Snow and Ice:
During the winter season of 2017-2018 we plowed(6) storms and sanded(18)times.
Special Projects:
Sidewalk repair and replacement throughout the Town. Paving projects, Westside Fire Station,
Laurel Lane repair, Drainage upgrades to Killam School, and assisted other Divisions as needed.
Special Notes:
In 2018, Tom Ward, Highway Foreman and Tom Doyle, Highway Equipment Operator both
retired.
Respectfully submitted— George Strazzere, Highway & Equipment Supervisor
79
Forestry— Tree Warden's Report
Eighty-seven trees were removed. These trees were dead or in a dangerous condition as to be a
threat to public safety. Eighty-two hazardous tree stumps were removed from the tree lawns,
parks, schools, cemeteries and playgrounds for public safety. One hundred-thirty-seven trees were
trimmed for dead wood and low branches were removed from the public trees as requested or
observed. A street-by-street hazardous tree survey of the Town was completed during the winter
months. As a result of the survey, sixteen hazardous trees were identified as well as one hundred
and four broken hanging limbs were trimmed and removed. Forty-four trees were planted by the
Town as street trees the varieties included Zelkova, Gingko, Elm, Red Maple, Red Oak, Kwanzan
Cherry, Sugar Maple and Cleveland Pear. Trees were planted roadside and in the parks, schools
and cemeteries.
The Compost Center on Strout Avenue continues to accept brush and leaves from residents.Thirty-
four thousand eight hundred and sixty cars entered the Compost Center in 2018. 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 over 20,000 colored bulbs installed on the common.
Reading was awarded "Tree City USA" for the thirty-second consecutive year by The National
Arbor Day Foundation. Three hundred Blue Spruce trees were purchased and distributed to all the
fifth graders. Thanks to the Reading Rotary Club that has sponsored and assisted in this program
to make "Arbor Day 2018" 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 division continues to maintain 80 acres of grassed area though out the town, and the facilities
within the parks and schools. This includes the renovation and continued maintenance of all the
ball fields on school or parks grounds. The Division maintains sixteen tennis and basketball courts,
the tot lots, and the skating rinks. The Division maintains the grounds for all municipal and school
buildings.
The division also assists all Town departments, committees and commissions with tree
maintenance, snow and ice removal and election set-up.
Special Notes: The month of March produced three Nor-Easters in a row. The storms caused heavy
winds and heavy wet snow that took down multiple trees around Reading. The Forestry-Parks
department was put to the test with the help of the rest of the public works for over a month to
follow with cleanup.
The Salem Street side of Memorial Park wall was damaged during the March 2nd Nor-Easter. A
sixty foot Norway Spruce had uprooted and hit the wall causing severe damage.
Respectfully Submitted—Michael E. Hannaford, Supervisor Parks, Forestry Division
80
Water/Sewer Division
The DPW Water Conservation Program (WCP) continued along with great success. In 2018, the
water conservation program awarded 30 rebates for energy efficient washing machines, 12 water
saving toilets, 0 irrigation rain sensors, and sold 60 rain barrels, totaling $8,940 in rebates.
Since the program's inception in July 2003, $604,245.00 has been rebated to 3,471 residents. The
Reading DPW WCP incorporates emphasis on rebates for low flow washing machines, toilets,
irrigation system rain sensors, and rain barrels, along with free home and irrigation water system
use audits and water use reports. Since 2003, the Reading Water Department has offered home
water saving devices for Reading residents, available free of charge to residents through the
Reading Water Department located at Town Hall in the DPW office.
The WCP school educational phase continued with Meg Tabasco, Education Coordinator for the
MWRA, making presentations to Reading's 3rd grade classrooms. The presentations focus on our
Town/MWRA water supply and household water conservation. Meg also facilitated a training and
education session for our Reading High School Seniors that taught and explained the wastewater
side of our Town's water system. We are very grateful to the MWRA and the programs they offer
to our Residents.
As required by the August 6, 2006 Administrative Consent Order (ACO) the Town entered into
with the Department of Environmental Protection(DEP),the Town retained 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 wellfield. 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. All nine (9) of our Town wells were exercised monthly; all such
wells are ready and operational in the case of a water supply emergency.
The MWRA in conjunction with the Reading Water Department compiled and mailed the
twentieth drinking water report Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) to all Reading water
customers this past June.
Under the Safe Drinking Water Act requirements, quarterly EPA Uncontaminated Monitoring
Rule 3 required sampling was completed and we were fully within all regulations. We are proud
to offer Reading residents some of the highest quality water in the country.
The MWRA redundant water main supply installation work moved into its final phases of
implementation in 2018. Both of our new MWRA/Town water metering and supply vaults on
Louanis Drive and Hopkins Street became fully functional in April of this year. We have been
able to split the Town's water use from both of these new vaults as we transition out of using our
original Border Road supply vault. Louanis and Hopkins vaults will be instrumental in the control
and management of our Town's MWRA water supply for the foreseeable future. We look forward
to their full activation in 2019.
Throughout 2018, the Town of Reading Water Department worked together with Reading
Facilities and School Departments to continually develop and grow our Town's LCCA (Lead
Contamination Control Act) Plan. The LCCA Plan tests and manages any Lead & Copper found
in our Reading school building's drinking water. Reading's LCCA Program was acknowledged
81
as excellent by MassDEP and became part of MassDEP's LCCA Training&Educational Program
for all Massachusetts Public Water Systems. For the Town's work, efforts and action to reduce
lead in school drinking water and to do so with extremely encouraging results, the MassDEP
"STAR L" (Systems Taking Action to Reduce Lead in Schools) Award was given to both the
Reading Water Department and the Reading School Department.
Additionally in 2018, MassDEP awarded the Reading Water Department a "Beyond Compliance
Award" for its absolute compliance with all state and federal drinking water regulations and for
having no water or operational violations of any kind in the past 5 years. The Reading Water
Department goes far beyond compliance by its dedication to improving all aspects of water
operations, water quality and for the testing of many secondary contaminants and matters that
some systems do not address. Reading shows exemplary efforts to attain such an excellent record
and has become a water system model for efficient,progressive operational strategy.
In 2018, Reading's Water Quality& DPW Safety Administrator was the recipient of MassDEP's
Distinguished Water Operator of the Year Award for his role in stewarding several DPW Safety
and Risk Management Programs.
Supply
In 2018,the Reading Water Department and DPW have operated and maintained our water supply
valve,vault, SCADA and security systems,with emergency water supply wells,pump stations and
all emergency power equipment. Annually, we have collected and delivered to laboratory for
analysis over 700 water system water quality samples.
In 2018, a total of 589.53 MG (million gallons) of water was purchased from the MWRA.. See
the following chart: 2018 READING MWRA WATER PURCHASED
The highest single day consumption of water by the Town of Reading in the 2018 year occurred
on Friday June 15th for 2.619 MG (million gallons). The highest seven (7) day consumption of
water occurred from Sunday, July 8th to Saturday, July 14th for the amount of 16.675 MG.
The Town of Reading's average daily usage of water for 2018 was 1.62 MGD (million gallons per
day). Water is supplied to Reading Residents and Businesses through 7,733 Residential Water
Connections, 67 Municipal Water Connections and 244 Commercial Water Connections. In 2018,
27,045 residents used a total of 425.80 MG of water. Each Reading resident has an average water
use of 15,743 gallons annually, 1,312 gallons monthly or 43.13 gallons per person per day. (Res.
GPCD)
The average water daily use of 43.13 gallons is roughly 33.6% below the MassDEP suggested
limit of 65 gallons per person per day.
For the monthly rainfall in Reading for 2018, see the following chart: 2018 LOCAL RAINFALL
RECORDS. Annual total rainfall in Reading for 2018 was 53.07" of rain or melted snow.
Reading's 2018 rainfall was up 35.3%from the 2017 rainfall total of 39.23.
Water Distribution
• Installed 25 new water services, replaced 17 old water services
82
• Repaired 20 water service leaks
• Repaired 8 broken water mains
• Replaced 6 old fire hydrants, repaired 3 broken fire hydrants, rebuilt 68 fire hydrants
• Disconnected 15 water services for house demotion
• Replaced 2 water main gate valves
• Replaced 313 ft of 1 1/4" water main on Larch Lane
• Replaced 46 old water services from the water main to the sidewalk shut off on West Hill
Circle, Selfridge Road, Ridge Road, Puritan Road, John Carver Road and Gardener Road
for Chapter 90 road construction
• Assisted with Friends and Family Day and Vehicle Day at the Reading Library
• Inspected the installation of water mains at Reading Woods, Johnson Woods, Veterans
Way, Kylie Drive and Summer Avenue
• Continued cross connection control program
• Completed the 2nd year of the unidirectional hydrant flushing program
• Inspected Auburn Street and Bear Hill water tanks
• Inspected all town drinking fountains
• Maintained all town irrigation systems, including spring start-up and winterization
• Painted and lubricated hydrants
• Completed annual water inventory
• Loam and seed program for all water jobs
• Installed hot top on water and sewer trenches
• Checked and maintained 2 water booster stations daily
• Cleaned and maintained grounds at Auburn Street tank site
• Lowered and raised water gate boxes for construction jobs
• Conducted leak detection survey
• Assisted Highway Division during snow plowing and hauling operations
Meter Room
• Supported the quarterly water meter reading cycle
• Received and completed 188 bill-to-date readings
• Removed 15 meters, reset 8 meters, no requests for meter testing were received
Sewer Distribution
• Cleaned approximately 8000 feet of sewer mains
• Replaced 6 sewer manhole frames and covers
• Assisted with replacement of the sewer station on Haverhill at Charles Street
• Cleaned wet wells at all sewer stations biannually
• Checked and maintained 12 sewer stations daily
• Cleaned approximately 1/4 of the sanitary sewer main system
• Cleaned and maintained grounds around all sewer stations
• Completed work orders for leaks, broken gates, etc.
• Exercised emergency generator weekly
• Completed the annual sewer inventory
• Assisted Highway Division during snow plowing and hauling operations
83
READING PUBLIC LIBRARY
REPORT OF THE LIBRARY BOARD OF TRUSTEES
The year 2018 was one in which the Reading Public Library continued to set the standard for
what a twenty-first century library can and will be, and one in which the full potential of the
renovated and expanded library was explored by the Reading Community. The Library
continued to see increased usage on all different dimensions, including circulation,
programming, and reference interactions, and remains amongst the busiest libraries in the North
of Boston Library Exchange (NOBLE)network. What was especially heartening was the
breadth and depth of the programming and activities at the Library, and the opportunities created
to engage all different members of the Reading Community. A few examples of this include:
• The Eats and Beats Event— over 600 people attended an afternoon event in June to mark
the beginning of summer in the Library parking lot featuring local food trucks,
entertainers and musical acts;
• The late night exam crams in January and June, when extended hours and resources were
available to high school teens to prepare for midterms and finals; and,
• The "Library of Things," a special repository of unique items (e.g. the Ion Tape Express,
a cassette tape to digital converter) made available to residents to borrow.
Of special note was the Library's efforts to embrace diversity and inclusion, and be a safe and
inviting place for the Reading Community to engage, interact, and learn. Our world class staff,
led by Library Director Amy Lannon, has admirably led the charge to balance the high level of
traditional services that the Library has always delivered with new, exciting and timely
initiatives.
We not only thank the Library Staff for their continued excellence but also the many volunteers,
including the Friends of the Reading Library and the Reading Public Library Foundation, for
their invaluable contributions. We look forward to 2019 and the opportunity to continue to
support the Reading Community.
John Brzezenski
Chair, Library Board of Trustees
84
REPORT OF THE LIBRARY ACTIVITIES AND SERVICES 2018
OVERVIEW
2018 saw a continued increase in most areas of library service. Notably, overall circulation and
usage increased 3.5%to 508,890; classes and programs offered increased 11%to 847, with
attendance up 25%to 25,437.
We also saw an increase in volunteer hours, meeting room reservations and museum pass use,
while daily visitors decreased by 5% (228,760). The library implemented new tracking software
for reference consultations in May of 2018 making yearly comparisons difficult. However, the
data gathered by the new software shows the increasing complexity and length of time spend on
these interactions.
CONNECTING THE COMMUNITY
Library continued its commitment to provide the Reading community with a welcoming and safe
environment. The library focused on themes of diversity, inclusion and partnership.
Some highlights and achievements from 2018 include:
Programs and Events
• 1000 Books Before Kindergarten
• Active Bystander Training
• Friends of the Library Music Series
• Global Eats & Summer Beats
• Dementia Friendly Training and initiatives
• New Resident Open House
• Pulse of Reading: Community Conversations Series
• Teen Volunteer and Job Fair
• Visiting Author: Jevaka Steptoe (Caldecott Award Winner)
Services
• Provided a comprehensive schedule of accessible Early Literacy classes for children 0-5
and their caregivers.
• Fostered the Early Literacy skills recommended by ALA's "Every Child Ready to Read"
initiative through classes, outreach and activities.
• Collaborated with media specialists and teachers from the Reading Public Schools to
support curriculum and provide extra-curricular literacy activities for grades K-12.
• Coordinated over 1,700 hours of volunteer work (e.g. Book Mates, Netguides,
homebound deliveries)
• Expanded programming and services for 55+ adult population.
Community Outreach
• Friends and Family Day
• Fall Street Faire
85
• Reading Garden Club Annual Plant Sale
• Reading is Fun: Drama Club Fundraiser
• Reading Public Schools Science Expo
• School/Preschool visits
TECHNOLOGY
The self-service equipment accounted for approximately 46% of returns of materials and 56% of
checkouts.
We added two computers in the Teen area, bringing public use inventory to:
• 33 PC's
• 2 iMacs
• 2 AWE Preschool Computers
• 3 Print release stations
• 5 Self-check stations
• 2 AMHS return outlets
• 4 OPACS
In FY2018 (July 2017-June 2018)public wifi recorded 87,822 sessions and our public computers
averaged 250 uses per week. Public printing continues to be strong with an average of 2,400
pages printed per month of which approximately 250 are through the mobile print("print from
home") option.
FACILITIES
The use of library meeting rooms remained strong. We made several improvements to the A/V
equipment in the Community Room and Conference Room, and also purchased new folding
chairs for the Community Room.
The Board of Trustees were pleased to work with Eagle Scout candidate Kevin Yatsuhashi
(RMHS '23)who installed a flagpole on the Middlesex Ave. (north) side of the building. The
project was completed on August 16 with a flag raising ceremony attended by town leaders,
library staff, and residents.
PERSONNEL
Our staff is our greatest asset and continues to provide high quality service. This year saw
several departures. Patty O'Donnell retired in July, and Donna Beaulieu left to take on a more
senior position at the Reading Police Department. Additionally, Assistant Director Ashley
Waring moved onto become a branch manager in Arlington, and Lorraine Barry was appointed
Interim Assistant Director for the remainder of the year.
New hires included Rory Butler in the Circulation Division, as well as substitutes Valerie Gould-
Heithaus and Joanne McElhenney. Suzy Axleson moved from substitute to regular employee
status, while Louise Hetherington was promoted to Senior Library Associate, and Lisa Eng was
promoted from page to Library Technician.
86
After the successful override vote in April 2018,portion of the funds allocated to the library
restored and expanded Sunday hours which start in the fall. The library is now open Sundays
from October to May, 1pm —5pm. The library also added .7 FTE(26 hours/week) of additional
and substitute shifts for Monday through Saturday hours.
APPRECIATION
The Library thanks the Board of Library Trustees for their guidance and support. We are also
grateful for the continued generosity of the Reading Public Library Foundation and the Friends
without whom we could not provide such outstanding services and programs. Finally, we are
fortunate to opportunity to experience the goodwill, kindness and connection with the Reading
community whom we serve each and every day.
Respectfully submitted,
Amy Lannon, MLIS
Library Director
87
LIBRARY STATISTICS
Circulation 508,890
Adult Circulation 172,004
Children's Circulation 158,578
Teen Circulation 16,182
Interlibrary Loans (Outgoing) 26,580
Interlibrary Loans (Incoming) 30,706
eBooks/eAudiobooks (downloads) 23,376
Database/Electronic Resource Retrieval(ARTS) 81,464
Library Collections 132,225
Adult Books 43,910
Adult Media (audio/video) 17,663
Children's Books 36,223
Children's Media (audio/video) 4,867
Teen Books 5,906
Teen Media (audio/video) 186
Other Media (ARIS) 4,186
eBooks and Downloadable & E Subscriptions (ARIS) 18,951
Print Periodical Subscriptions (ARIS) 275
Digital Periodical Subscriptions (ARIS) 43
Electronic Database Licenses (ARIS) 15
Library Services
Meeting Room Reservations All 1,430
Meeting Room - Community Use Only 244
Museum passes borrowed 2,422
Programs - Total 847
Adults (268), Teens (114), Children 465
Program Attendance - Total 25,437
Adults 4,757 , Teens 3,165 , Children (17,515)
Reference Consultations - Total 40,726
Library Card Holders: Registered Borrowers 22,783
Open Hours 2,942
Visitors 228,760
Volunteer Service Hours 1,753.75 (33.7 hrs/wk)
88
READING PUBLIC LIBRARY STAFF 2018
Retirements/Departures
Donna Beaulieu (Circulation)
Patty O'Donnell(Circulation)
Ashley Waring (Administration)
Administration
Director: Amy F. Lannon
Assistant Director: Ashley Waring (January September)
Interim Assistant Director: Lorraine Barry (October December)
Senior Administrative Assistant: Kathryn Melesciuc
Children's Division
Division Head: Corinne Fisher
Early Literacy Librarian: Brenda Wettergreen,
Primary Grade Librarian: Cate Zannino
Children's Librarian: Mary Jeanne Harwood
Senior Library Associate: Mary McIntire
Children's Pages: Meaghan Coughlin, Grace Koury, Jessica Navin,
Circulation Division
Division Head: Michelle A. Filleul
Senior Library Associate: Louise Hetherington
Library Associates: Suzy Axelson, Rory Butler, Susan Haggerty, Louise Hetherington,
Andrea Hogan, Carol Macomber, Christine Rutigliano, Judy
Terrazano
Circulation Technician Lisa Eng
Circulation Pages: Julianna Aguja, Neftali Gonzalez
Reference Division
Division Head: Lorraine Barry
Adult/Elder Librarian: Andrea Fiorillo
Local History Librarian: Eileen Barrett
Reader Advisory Librarian: Kathleen Miksis
Young Adult Librarian: Susan Beauregard,
Young Adult Librarian: Renee Smith
Technical Services
Division Head: Jamie Penney
Senior Library Associates: Dawn Colford, Allison DaSilva
Library Associate: Judy A. Newton
89
Sunday and Substitute Librarians Sunday and Substitute Associates
Rebecca Bailey Valerie Gould-Heithaus
Miguel Burns Virginia Guazzaloca
Lauren Gardner Jennifer O'Connell
Kathryn Geoffrion-Scannell
Joanne McElhenney
Marina Salenikas
Susanne Sullivan
Megan White
Custodians (Facilities Department)
John Davis
Lynda Florence
READING PUBLIC LIBRARY BOARD OF TRUSTEES 2018
John Brzezenski, Chair Andrew Grimes
Alice Collins, Secretary Nina Pennacchio
Cherrie Dubois, Vice Chair Monette Verrier
READING PUBLIC LIBRARY FOUNDATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2018
Bruce Austin, Secretary Russ Graham
John Brzezenski Bill Hecht, Vice President
Lynne Cameron Bob Nordstrand
Elise Ciregna, President Maria Silvaggi
Amy Coumounduros, Treasurer
FRIENDS OF THE READING PUBLIC LIBRARY BOARD 2018
Eleanor Delaney, Co-President Alissa Onigman, Treasurer
Leslie Haley, Co-President Sharon Petersen, Ass't. Treasurer
Jean Clark, Recording Secretary Lynda Zarrow, Communication
90
READING HOUSING AUTHORITY
It is with great pleasure that I share with you the activities and accomplishments of the Reading
Housing Authority over the past year.
The start of the New Year has seen some improvement in our economy; however, we remain
cautious during this somewhat unstable time. The pressure on the real estate market has
continued to create a critical challenge for poor and lower income families to find, keep and
maintain their housing. As the real estate values escalated over the past few years, it was
certainly felt most dramatically at the low-income levels. Rental units have been at a greater
premium once again in this area and participants have experienced difficulty in locating
affordable units. Previously, landlords had been able to ask for and receive a high rent, which
historically prices the poor and lower income families out of the rental market. Again, we are
beginning to see a change in the rental market area with increase inquiries from landlords who
are experiencing more difficulty renting units, therefore, willing to negotiate rents within the
range of Fair Market Rents established each year by HUD.
The Reading Housing Authority (Authority) strives to assist these families to seek and obtain
housing that is decent, safe and sanitary. In an effort to ameliorate this impact, the Authority will
continue its efforts to develop new units and purchase affordable units when the opportunity
arises. The Authority most recently has begun a careful search for a multi-family home in our
area with the hope of adding additional family affordable units to our present inventory in the
upcoming year. We continue to support private developers and the Town in their efforts to set
aside units for low/moderate income families in their proposed developments. We reach out to
owners of multi-family units who would like to work with us to serve our clients.
As always, the Authority goes beyond the bricks and mortar and provides assistance to families,
elderly and handicapped persons to obtain the services they need. We work closely with Mystic
Valley Elder Services and other home care agencies to meet the needs of the elderly residents as
they strive to remain independent and age in place. With budget cuts affecting all of us, we strive
to maintain our programs, work with other supportive agencies and still offer a safe and decent
place for our seniors, disabled and families in need. On behalf of the Board, we want to thank
Executive Director, Julie Johnston and her staff for their continued dedication, commitment and
service to the Reading Housing Authority. We look forward to working with them as we meet
the new challenges that lie ahead.
Our community is very fortunate to have such caring and dedicated public safety personnel. The
men and women of the Reading Police Department and Fire Department have our gratitude and
appreciation for the many times they have responded to emergency situations for residents of the
Reading Housing Authority.
We look forward to working with them and the Reading community as we meet the new
challenges that lie ahead.
91
` spectfully,
Richard Robbins, Chair
ORGANIZATION:
Organized in 1963 to address the housing needs of the Town's low and moderate-income
residents, the Reading Housing Authority (Authority) is "a public body politic and corporate"
duly organized and authorized by Massachusetts General Laws (MGL), Chapter 121B, s.3. The
Authority receives it fiends from the State and Federal government to assist our clients with their
housing needs. Although the Authority does not receive any local funding, five unpaid Reading
residents compose the Board of Commissioners. The Select Board appoints four of these board
members and one is the Governor's appointee. Each member serves for a 5-year term. The Board
is responsible for the overall operation of the Authority. The day to day responsibility is
delegated to the Executive Director.
The Board meets regularly and has scheduled their monthly meetings for the first Monday of
each month. The Annual Meeting of the Board is currently scheduled for the month after the
Select Board makes their annual appointment of a Board member. As of December 2018, the
Board Members and their term of office are as follows:
Richard Robbins Chair
42 Dudley Street Term expires 6/30/2020
Timothy J. Kelley Vice-Chair
84 Woburn Street Term expires 6/30/2019
Diane L. Cohen State Appointee
73 Hillcrest Avenue Term expires 5/03/2021
Charles L. Adams Assistant Treasurer
13 Riverside Drive Term expires: 6/30/2022
Vacant Seat State Tenant Representative
Julie M. Johnston Secretary and Executive Director
22 Frank Tanner Drive
ADMINISTRATIVE and MAINTENANCE STAFF:
The Board contracts an Executive Director who manages the day-to-day operations of the
Authority. Within State and Federal guidelines and other budgetary limits, the Executive
Director hires the supporting staff necessary to achieve the goals and responsibilities of the
Authority's programs.
92
Administration:
Julie M. Johnston Secretary and Executive Director
Susan McLaughlin State Housing Manager
Catherine Sutherland Office Manager
Iris Perez-Feliciano CHA Federal Program Coordinator for RHA
Maintenance:
Joseph Costello Maintenance Staff
Edward Bennett Maintenance Staff
SUPPORTIVE SERVICES AFFILIATIONS:
Home Care:
Jane Burns Town of Reading, Elder& Human Services Administrator
Kerry Valle Town of Reading, Case Manager
Alyse Warren Town of Reading, Nurse Advocate
Daniel J. O'Leary Director, Mystic Valley Elder Services
FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS:
Reading Cooperative Bank
Eastern Bank
AFFILIATIONS:
National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials (NAHRO)
Massachusetts Chapter of National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials
(MassNAHRO)
New England Regional Council of National Association of Housing and Redevelopment
Officials (NERCINAHRO)
Section 8 Administrators Association
North Shore Housing Executive Directors' Association (NSHEDA)
Adult Literacy Committee of Reading/Wakefield YMCA
CONSULTANTS:
Accountants: Fenton, Ewald& Associates
Legal: Latham Law Offices, LLC & DHCD Legal Counsel, Lori McBride, Esq.
MAINTENANCE
We do it all- from the beautiful paint j ob to the new appointments before you move into your
new apartment. The maintenance staff meets the challenges on every occasion and has done an
excellent j ob.
With the four seasons we experience here in New England, maintenance must be ready to take it
all in stride. They do the spring clean-up and plantings; the summer mowing, watering, weeding
and trimming; the fall leaf raking; and winter's snow and ice removal. The maintenance staff
works tirelessly to keep our developments looking beautiful.
93
The Authority is responsible for 115 individual units located on 10 different sites. It is no easy
task to keep each one looking in its top form. The maintenance staff is also responsible for the
daily work orders and any emergency work that needs to be done.
2018 FUNDING RECEIVED:
Each year the Authority applies for several grants or capital funding whenever available to
improve our properties and better serve our residents and the community. Included in this year's
awards were:
MODERNIZATION OF STATE HOUSING FUNDS
In March 2018 the Reading Housing Authority was notified that the agency would be receiving
$69,882 in Formula Funding Grants for Capital Improvement Projects for fiscal year 2021. The
Authority began working on an exterior door replacement and balcony repair project in 2018 at
Frank D. Tanner, Drive with anticipated completion by the end of June 2019.
AUDITS:
The Authority has a Single Audit of all programs by an independent auditor each year.
Guyder/Hurley of Braintree, MA was engaged to perform the latest review of the Authority's
programs for fiscal year end June 2018. At this time, the audit has been completed and final
copies of report were submitted in late December 2018 to designated agencies; namely, HUD,
DHCD and the Office of State Auditors. The Authority had no findings or additional
recommendations as a result of this latest audit. The Authority's financial position is adequate to
meet the needs of the operation and development of the programs and we are fortunate to
maintain a retained revenue agency status.
A new compliance audit mandated by DHCD for FYE June 2017 has also been completed as of
December 2018. Final reports were received by year end and no findings were noted in that
detailed report. A copy of that Agreed Upon Procedures (AUP) audit has been submitted to
DHCD for their review.
MANAGEMENT REVIEW:
The Authority has had a current Management Review done of all State programs. The Asset
Managers from the State's Department of Housing and Community Development reviewed all
the operations ofthe State programs to insure compliance in the daily operation of the
Authority'S budget, occupancy, administration, maintenance, services and tenant participation.
The Authority received an excellent review with minor comments.
As of September 2015, the Reading Housing Authority entered into an inter-agency agreement
with Chelsea Housing Authority to administer its Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program.
That agreement was extended for our FY2018. This cost-effective measure has enabled the RHA
to maintain the federal housing program with the assistance of personnel from another agency.
The Reading Housing Authority continues to oversee the program and remains responsible for
all reporting requirements to HUD.
94
STATE PROGRAMS:
The Authority currently manages three (3)programs under the State's Department of Housing
and Community Development: 667 Housing (elderlylhandicapped housing); 705 Housing
(Family housing); 689 Housing (Special Needs Housing).
All our wait lists are open now; however, estimated wait times can be long. All information
regarding our agency and the programs we administer can be found on our website at
www.readinghousing.org. We encourage applicants to apply for our elderly/handicapped(667)
housing by contacting the Housing Authority at(781) 944-6755 or by accessing the application
on our website.
HOUVING FOR ELDERLY/HANDICAPPED PERSONS(667) effective April 1,2018
80, one-bedroom units located at Frank D. Tanner Drive Housing Complex
Eligibility: 60 years of age or disabled
Income: 1 person - $54,750
2 persons - $58,450
HOUVING FOR FAMILIES (705) effective April 1. 2018
6 units Waverly and Oakland Road(6, three-bedroom units)
4 units Pleasant and Parker Street(2, two-bedroom units; 2, three-bedroom units)
Eligibility: Family of 2 or more depending on Bedroom Size
Income: 2 persons - $58,450 6 persons - $84,450
3 persons - $63,750 7 persons - $90,600
4 persons - $73,050 8 persons - $96,450
5 persons - $78,900
FEDERAL PROGRAMS
The Authority manages 125 subsidies for persons of very low income under the Federal Section 8
program. However,the Chelsea Housing Authority is currently managing this program for the RHA
through an interagency agreement. Currently,the RHA participates in a centralized waiting list
administered by the MASSNAHRO organization. Applications for this wait list are available at the
administration office building at 22 Frank D. Tanner Drive, Reading or online @
www.readinghousing.org. The income limits for 2018 are:
SECTION 8 RENTAL AVVIVTANCE
Income limits: 1 person - $37,750 2 persons - $43,150
3 persons - $48,550 4 persons - $53,900
5 persons - $58,250 6 persons - $62,550
7 persons - $66,850 8 persons - $71,150
RHA-OWNED PROPERTIES
The Authority presently owns and manages seventeen family units located in various locations
throughout the Town of Reading. Four of the seventeen units were located at the condominiums
of the Old Reading Schoolhouse. However, in June 2017 the RHA lost these four units due to
95
fire. Thankfully, no one was hurt as a result of the fire but all forty (40)units were determined to
be uninhabitable. Efforts are underway to rebuild and restore the units to their original condition
as soon as possible. The RHA is hopeful that it will be able to retain the affordability component
to all 4 units once constriction is complete.
APPLICATIONS:
***NEW APPLICATION PROCEDURES COMING***
CHAMP- COMMON HOUSING APPLICATION FOR MASSACHUSETTS'PUBLIC-
HOUSING
In August 2014, legislation as part of Chapter 235, an Act Relative to Local Housing Authorities,
was passed to establish a centralized on-line wait list system for persons seeking state-aided
public housing assistance. CHAMP will enable Local Housing Authorities and the Department
of Community Development to manage state-aided housing applications for all situations -
emergency, standard and transfer. CHAMP is scheduled to go on-line to the public access
sometime in 2019. Once on-line, applicants will be able to submit and self-manage their
applications through the on-line portal from a computer, smart phone, or tablet.
You may obtain an application at the office of the Authority, 22 Frank D. Tanner Drive,
Reading, MA 01867 or by accessing it online at www.readinghousing.org.
ELDERLY/HANDICAPPED HOUSING(667)
The Authority manages 80 one-bedroom units of housing for elderly/handicapped persons at our
Frank D. Tanner Drive complex in Reading. To qualify for this housing, a single person or
couple must meet the eligibility guidelines and be 60 years of age or older or handicapped. The
Authority sets aside 13.5% of these units for non-elderly handicapped persons.
FAMILY HO USING-STATE (705)
The Authority operates the State's Family Housing Program with 2 different developments. The
first family housing development that was built by the Authority is located at Oakland and
Waverly Roads and is called Waverly Oaks. There are six 3-bedroom units. Our second state
family development is near the center of Town and is referred to as our Pleasant/Parker location.
There are only four units available at this site. Our wait list is open. Approximate wait times for
those presently on the list remains in excess of ten years.
SECTION 8 FEDERAL HOUSING ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
Currently the wait list for our Section 8 Program is open. We participate in the centralized wait
list program initiated in December 2002 and administered by Mass NAHRO. Applications are
available at our administrative office or online at http://www.section8Iistmass.org/. An
application can be downloaded from that site and submitted to any agency participating in the
centralized wait list program. At present there are over 200,000 families on this waitlist with
waiting times for assistance being quite long.
SUMMIT VILLAGE FIRST TIME HOMEBUYERS PROGRAM:
The Authority continues to oversee the maintenance of the wait list for qualified and eligible
applicants for the affordable units at Summit Village through the First Time Homebuyers
96
Program. We presently have no potential buyers on our waitlist. Interested applicants are
encouraged to contact the Authority.
CONCLUSION:
The Reading Housing Authority is proud to provide this information to you. Anyone interested
in obtaining an application for any of our housing programs: elderly/handicapped housing, state
family or the Federal Section 8 Rental Assistance Program, should contact the authority at 22
Frank D. Tanner Drive or by calling the office at(781) 944-6755.
97
Reading School Committee
Elaine Webb, Chair
Leadership
There were several changes in leadership of the Reading School Committee. Elaine Webb and
Sherri Vanden Akker were elected for a three-year term.
At the committee's annual reorganization in June, Elaine Webb was elected as Chair, and Linda
Snow Dockser, Vice Chair. Other members of the committee are Nick Boivin, Sherry Vanden
Akker, Jeanne Borawski, and Chuck Robinson.
Budget
The School Committee engaged in a comprehensive process of establishing FY19 budget.
Numerous meetings were conducted to discuss the various priorities and how the budget should
support the District mission and goals. 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.
Reading Public Schools
Budget Summary
Fiscal Year 2019
Recommended
Budget
Administration $1,061,384
Regular Day $26,647,725
Special Education $13,899,069
District Wide Programs $1,926,877
School Facilities $1,325,220
Total $44,860,275
Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS)
Reading's statewide prominence in the MCAS rankings continued in 2018 as Reading, once
again,placed in the upper third of all Massachusetts districts in MCAS performance. This
represents a significant accomplishment for a system that continues to spend 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. 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
98
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 2018, it is apparent that our students are staying
in the school system. We have seen enrollment remain steady. Student enrollment in the fall of
2018(FY2019) stood at 4,210 students. See chartbelow.
Reading Public Schools
Student Enrollment FY2019
Preschool 102
Elementary Schools K— 5 1,840
Middle Schools 6— 8 981
High School 9 — 12 1,241
Special Education *46
Total 4,210
* 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 271 young men and women in 2018. 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 Cornell and
Boston College 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, academic achievement, and above all,
sportsmanship. Our students take part in a number of statewide competitions, including the
Science Olympiad program, 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 Reading Education Fund,just to name a few,
that provide that added support and encouragement that fosters a sense of community and
promotes participation and success.
99
Reading Public Schools
2018 Annual Report
John F. Doherty, Ed.D. Christine M. Kelley
Superintendent Assistant Superintendent
Gail Dowd
Chief Financial Officer
School Department
This report represents the activities, accomplishments and events of note that occurred in the
Reading Public Schools during the 2018 calendar year.
Leadership Chante
Chuck Robinson was elected Chair of the Reading School Committee for the 2017-2018 school
year. Elaine Webb was elected Vice Chair of the Reading School Committee.
At the School Committee reorganization meeting in June, Elaine Webb was elected Chair and
Linda Snow Dockser as Vice-Chair.
Craig Martin resigned as Assistant Superintendent and was replaced by Christine Kelley.
Heather Leonard resigned as the Principal of the Alice M. Barrows School and was replaced by
Beth Leavitt.
Adam Bakr resigned as the principal of Reading Memorial High School and was replaced by
Kathleen Boynton.
Carolyn Wilson resigned as Director of Student Services in October and was replaced by Sharon
Stewart as Interim Director of Student Services.
Notable Events
The Reading Public Schools enters the fourth year of the partnership with the Wakefield Public
Schools to offer programming for our post-graduate special education students.
100
Reading Public Schools hosted the 121h Annual Blueprint for Educational Excellence National
Institute attended by teachers and administrators from all over the country. All district staff
participated—Many teachers presented workshops in all areas of curriculum.
Reading Public Schools held the 141h annual Artsfest which showcased student artwork,drama and
musical performances.
The Class of 2018 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:
85.9%-Four Year Colleges,7.2%-Two Year Colleges, 1.1%-Business/Technical/Prep Schools,
and 5.8% - Other.
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 the seniors in the
class of 2018 met the MCAS graduation requirement.
98% graduation rate for the Class of 2018.
Several faculty and staff members were recognized by local and national educational and
professional organizations for outstanding achievement.
"A World of Difference" program began its ninth year with the focus on the commitment to a
positive school culture.
Middle School students successfully compete in local, state and national competitions including
National Science Olympiad, Wordmasters Challenge, District Music competitions and writing
contests.
The district continues to upgrade technology.
Safe Routes to school program sponsored by the MA Department of Transportation is adopted by
several schools.
Birch Meadow continued to use the "Birch Meadow Yay" program to immediately recognize
101
students and staff who demonstrate positive behaviors in and around school.
The Barrows School continues with the"STARS"Program—Students that Act Responsibly Shine.
Joshua Eaton hosted the third annual Jr. Author Fest to celebrate student writing. Over 600 pieces
of student writing was on display and shared during the day and at night.
TRRFCC (Trustworthiness, Respect, Responsibility, Fairness, Caring, and Citizenship) Character
Program continues to be strong in the Killam community and school-wide expectations were
developed and shared with the entire community based on the MTSS model.
Several schools continue the Curriculum Initiatives — Open Circle and Differentiated Instruction
with many teachers participating in professional development activities and workshops.
At Wood End, the Leadership Team, with the tremendous support of teaching staff, successfully
implemented a mentoring program as part of our Tier 2 system of supports to better meet the
individual needs of students requiring more targeted interventions.
Several students participated in the School Games Day sponsored by the Special Olympics.
The Pupil Services Department continues to work, in conjunction with regular education, in the
creation of internal programs and supports to assist student's access the curriculum, and on their
goal of controlling out of district costs by developing new programs.
102
Student Services Department
Carolyn Wilson, Director (through October 2018)
Sharon Stewart, Interim Director
The Reading Public School system is committed to the provision of quality education for all
students and offers an array of support services and programs in all of our schools. The Student
Services Department, including special education and preschool offers a broad range of support
services to students who meet mandated eligibility criteria. Staff, students and families have
access to School Psychologists, School Adjustment Counselors, Special Education Teachers,
Therapists, and a variety of consultants.
Our office is staffed with two secretaries, one for the RISE Preschool and the other the
Administrative Assistant to the Director of Student Services, Team Chairpersons, a Director of
the RISE preschool, a Behavioral Health Coach and a District Data Coach. This year we added
an Assistant Director of Student Services which was filled by Allison Wright who will also serve
as the Birch Meadow Team Chair. We also welcomed the following new Team Chairpersons:
Alanna Shone at Coolidge and Leander Corman at Parker. Jane Finger is at the Barrows
Elementary School. A Team Chairperson is assigned to supervise, support and oversee needs of
students, staff, and families at each of the levels from preschool to age 22 in programs both in
and out of district, as well as ensure compliance with all state and federal special education
regulations. This school year we continue to have the support of the district wide BCBA for
some of the district wide program.
The District continues to work on implementation of the Multi-tiered System of Supports
(MTSS)which is a framework that allows schools to make decisions on supporting students
behavioral, social emotional and academic needs. Through grant funding the District continues
to support a district wide Data Coach, Courtney Fogarty. The addition of this position has
allowed principals to more easily access building-based data to help them make decisions about
curriculum and student needs. The Data Coach works closely with each building principal and
building leadership team to identify key data points that are connected to each school
improvement plan and to the improvement of student outcomes. The goals are to help individual
schools identify areas of need and make changes in practice or supports based on the data.
The District Wide Behavioral Health Coach provides support to teachers around social emotional
learning. This year Lauren Sabella joined the Reading Public Schools in this position. Lauren
coordinates training opportunities for staff around social emotional learning. This includes
continuing the District's partnership with Lesley University and offering courses on Trauma and
Learning. This year we have been able to offer the Trauma 4 class which is the most advanced
course for educators. The Behavioral Health Coach works closely with the counseling staff and
the Therapeutic Support Program within the District. She also completes regular classroom
visits; observing Open Circle Practices and advisory at the Middle School. She is also available
to provide consultation and support to school-based teams around mental health needs of
students.
103
In order to support our students identified as English Language Learners (ELL) Carla
Pennacchio is the ELL Coordinator and Karen Hall and Francine Rubano-Jones work as ELL
teachers district wide.
Program Development
Due in large part to the extensive efforts of our building principals and special education teams,
we are able to continue our efforts to create appropriate programs which allow students to be
educated in their community and return from out of district placements. We also have strong in-
district programs located at seven of our eight schools that support the more intensive of needs of
students, while keeping them in the least restrictive environment. It is also important to note that
we have students from other districts that pay tuition to attend our in-district programs. This year
we continue to receive referrals from other districts and are working with the sending districts to
determine if they are a fit for our programs. This is a testament to the high quality of services and
supports we are able to provide in these programs, while allowing opportunities for inclusion
with same age peers.
The following programs are offered in the Reading Public Schools:
• Connections: located at Birch Meadow, Coolidge and RMHS.
• Compass: located at Birch Meadow, Wood End, Coolidge and RMHS.
• Bridge: located at Joshua Eaton, Parker and RMHS.
• Crossroads: located at Wood End, Coolidge and RMHS.
• Therapeutic Support Program (TSP): located at Killam, Coolidge and RMHS.
This year we are completing a review of the Bridge program at Parker with an outside
consultant. The goal is to determine if the practices being implemented by the staff are language
based and meet the needs of students with language-based learning disabilities, including
Dyslexia. The Landmark School is once again consulting with the Reading Public Schools with
a focus on the program at Joshua Eaton. Seven teachers are enrolled in an on-line course and
follow up observations and coaching will occur between February and June.
We continue to have a collaboration with Wakefield Public Schools for our POST program for
students who are 18-22 years old. This program is housed in Wakefield and serves both Reading
and Wakefield students. Students are provided with community-based experiences and
internship opportunities within the community.
Professional Development
In order to build the capacity of our staff to improve the quality of services and programs, our
teachers, therapists, and paraprofessionals participate in extensive professional development and
training throughout the year. The focus of this year is on increasing the capacity of our staff to
provide specialized instruction, continued compliance with state and federal regulations and the
more consistent use of data to help in measuring student progress and making decisions. The
IDEA Grant and the Special Education Program Improvement Grant are focused on the use of
data to improve outcomes for students with disabilities. This year special education teachers
have been provided with opportunities to be trained in using research-based reading programs.
104
The goal is to increase the variety of reading programs available at each building so that special
education teachers can use data to determine the most appropriate type of methodology for each
student. This has included training in the Lindamood Bell programs, Just Words by Wilson and
the Wilson Language System.
In order to continue the work around data-based decision-making the district is once again
working with Allan Blume a retired professor from Simmons College. Mr. Blume is providing
training on writing all components of Individual Education Programs (IEPs) by using a linear
data driven process. Special education teachers and related service providers have also been
provided with opportunities to attend conferences,receive de-escalation and restraint training
and continue to receive training on developing inclusive practices to support all learners.
We continue to use the professional learning community structure to help support staff. All
special education program teachers are involved in a vertical PLC that is facilitated by a
curriculum leader. This year these groups are reviewing student data and specific methodology
that is used in each program.
The Student Services Department offers a continuum of programs and services to ensure system-
wide collaboration and coordination for students in preschool through age 22. We are committed
to strong professional development and training and we take pride in innovative and creative
program development. We are very proud of our organization, our schools and our students. If
you need assistance from the Reading Public Schools Student Services Department, you are
welcome to contact us at 781-942-9129.
105
OF RFgO'�
m
639'Isco RQ0
John F.Doherty,Ed.D. READING MEMORIAL HIGH SCHOOL Adam D.Bakr
Superintendent Principal
62 Oakland Road,Reading,Massachusetts 01867 Michael P.McSweeney
Tel: 781-944-8200 Fax: 781-942-5435 Jessica Theriault
Website:http:!lwww.edline.net/pages/Reading_HS Thomas J. Zaya
Assistant Principals
RMHS ANNUAL REPORT -2018
RMHS CORE VALUES AND BELIEFS
The primary concern of Reading Memorial High School is the preparation of students to be
literate, skilled, creative, healthy, competent and informed citizens; appreciative of the arts;
capable of critical thinking and problem-solving; and able to function intellectually, emotionally
and physically within a complex, interdependent and pluralistic world.
As educators, we believe our work centers on the pursuit of knowledge and the cultivation of
intellectual, emotional and physical well-being. We help our students enhance their ability to
think by teaching the symbols and concepts through which thought, and creativity take place, and
by developing the skills for using those symbols and concepts. The uses of intelligence with
which we are concerned include critical thinking, observing, information gathering,processing
and evaluating, listening, logic, computation, oral and written communication, and the
application of these skills in decision-making and problem solving. We help our students by
imparting knowledge of their bodies and providing opportunities for physical activity.
We believe that a good learning community should be one
• that is safe, caring, consistent, fair, flexible, open and democratic.
• that meets the needs of all students through educational programs that promote
individual fulfillment in a variety of ways as well as encompasses the complex
interdependency of the world and the community.
• that achieves educational excellence in an environment which promotes the free and
open exchange of ideas; encourages mutual respect, creative expression and problem-
solving skills; fosters human dignity; and recognizes and respects racial, ethnic,
cultural and sexual differences.
• that promotes individuality; nurtures self-esteem, health and well-being; and
encourages participation in a democratic society.
106
We believe that the education of our young people is the shared responsibility of the school, stu-
dent, family and community.
STUDENT ENROLLMENT—2018-2019
The 2018 school year ended with the graduation of 271 RMHS seniors. The 2018-2019 school
year began with 1251 students enrolled at RMHS. The student body was apportioned by grade-
level as follows: Grade 9 —293 students; Grade 10 — 329 students; Grade 11 —307 students;
Grade 12—322 students.
OVERVIEW OF EDUCATION PROGRAMS
GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS
Each student who successfully passes all of the required courses listed below, as well as passes
the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS) Subject Tests in English
Language Arts, Mathematics and Science will earn a diploma from Reading Memorial High
School.
English 8 Semesters
Mathematics 6 Semesters
Science 6 Semesters
History/Social Studies 6 Semesters
Health& Wellness 6 Semesters
Foreign Language 4 Semesters
Fine Arts 2 Semesters
Business/Technology 2 Semesters
OUTCOMES OF STUDENT PERFORMANCE
MASSACHUSETTS COMPREHENSIVE ASSESSMENT SYSTEM (MCAS)
Spring 2018 Results
Subject Test % Advanced % Proficient %Needs Improvement %Failing
English Language Arts 55 41 3 1
Mathematics 65 22 10 3
Science 33 48 18 1
&
Technology (Biology)
107
SCHOLASTIC APTITUDE TESTS (NIEANSCORES)
Year 4 of Test-Takers Critical Reading Math
2018 254 590 595
SAT II TESTS (MEAN SCORES)
Subject 4 of Test-Takers Scores Subject
Biology E 15 609
Biology M 26 630
Chemistry 31 662
Math: Level 2C 32 704
Physics 13 677
ADVANCED PLACEMENT EXAMS: CLASS OF 2018
Total number of students: 198
Total number of exams: 383
RMHS Percentage of scores 3+ 84.3%
MA State Percentage of scores 3+ 69.8%
ADVANCED PLACEMENT EXAMS 2018
Distinction 4 of Students
AP Scholars 21
AP Scholars with Honors 08
AP Scholars with Distinction 24
National AP Scholars 02
NATIONAL MERIT SCHOLARSHIPS 2018
Distinction 4 of Students
Letters of Commendation Class 2018 08
Letters of Commendation Class 2019 05
National Merit Finalists class of 2019 01
POST SECONDARY EDUCATION
Institution % for Class of 2018
4-year Colleges and Universities 90.7
2-year Colleges 6.0
Technical Schools 0.37
Percentage Continuing Education 97.0
World of Difference is a student led program at Reading Memorial High School and the
middle schools. "A World of Difference" (AWOD) at RMHS focuses on contributing to a
positive school and community culture. The Anti-Defamation League defines the goals of
AWOD as follows:
108
"Explore the meaning of community and why it's important for everyone to feel that he or
she belongs to the community."
"Examine the ways in which people knowingly or unknowingly might make others feel like
they don't belong to their school community."
"Identify what members of the school community can do to actively promote an inclusive
learning environment in which cultural, racial, and other human similarities and differences
are respected and valued."
"The A WORLD OF DIFFERENCE Institute's programs and resources are designed to help
participants:
• recognize bias and the harm it inflicts on individuals and society
• build understanding of the value and benefits of diversity
• improve intergroup relations
• confront racism, anti-Semitism and all other forms of bigotry"
RMHS AWOD has accomplished a lot last year and the beginning of this year. Some student
led initiatives and accomplishments include:
• The training of 30 students in a three-day program through The Anti-Defamation
League
• Two separate learning activities for children at our community's Martin Luther King
Jr. Day
• Helping to organize assemblies with Dr. Anna Ornstein, Holocaust survivor and
professor
• The creation of Kindness Montha full month spent spreading random acts of
kindness throughout the school
• Hosting a guest speaker session regarding mental health, bullying, and being an ally
• The creation of RMHS's "Community Day" activity surrounding the four core values
• Discussions with Student Council regarding how to best respond to hate symbols
within the school
SCIENCE DEPARTMENT
Environmental Club - The RMHS Environmental Club regularly collects recycling from
hallways and classrooms at RMHS. They also maintain the traffic island near the high
school. A subset of the club competes in the Envirothon Competition every year.
Envirothon - Four students competed in the Massachusetts Envirothon in May 2018 in
Ecostations related to Forestry, Wildlife, Water, and Soils. William Qiu and Lisa Li placed
109
4th in the state in Water. Their Current Issue Presentation was about our local watersheds.
This year the Current Issue will be food sustainability in a world with high population
growth. Alex Pancic will take the reins from Martha Moore as club advisor this year. An
enormous thank you to Martha for her many years as a dedicated advisor to Envirothon and
for mentoring Alex Pancic in his new role.
Science Olympiad -Nineteen students competed in the State Science Olympiad on March
17, 2018 placing 13th in the state out of over 50 teams. RMHS placed in the top 10 in 5
events. Over 20 students have been preparing since September 2018 for this year's
competition which will be on March 23, 2019. The science team also competed at the
Harvard Invitational Olympiad in January 2018, earning 2 first place medals, one fourth
place, and ranking 13th overall.
Marine Genomics and Careers Workshop - Over February Vacation 2018, sophomore
students attended Northeastern University's Marine Genomics and Careers Workshop for
Girls at their Marine Science Center in Nahant, MA.
Tufts University TUBERs Program - Student Kelly Ward was accepted to and attended the
TUBERs summer program at Tufts University. In August 2018, Kelly presented a poster
"Predicting the Role of Proteases in Metastasis and Drug Resistance through CRISPR and
Computation."
Biogen's Adventures in Biotechnology Summer Program - Akihiro Kudo,participated in
Biogen's Adventures in Biotechnology Summer Program in August 2018.
MITRE Bedford Young Women in Engineering Workshop - On Friday, November 9,
2018 students Catie Coumounduros (12), Katherine Growney (10), Smritha Srinivasan (9),
Bridget Scanlon (9) and Nicole Tawadros (9)will attend MITRE Bedford Young Women in
Engineering Workshop. The day-long session provided young women in high school the
opportunity to experience the creativity and innovation of engineering, science, and
technology through demonstrations,presentations,panel discussion and interactive design
session with female engineers from The MITRE Corporation. The overall goal of this
workshop is to enlighten college-bound girls about Engineering as a major.
New Faculty:
The science department welcomes Ayesha Khan and Grace Rousseau to the RMHS Science
Department.
Ayesha Khan joins the Science Department as a Chemistry teacher. She is a graduate
of Washington University (B.A. Political Science and Psychology) and Emory
University (M.A. Film and Media Studies) and has more recently done extensive
coursework in the physical and life science at Harvard University and Bunker Hill
Community College as part of pre-med baccalaureate program. Ayesha comes to
RMHS from Community Charter School of Cambridge where she taught for six
110
years. While employed at Community Charter School, Ayesha taught Chemistry,
Humanities and Special Education.
Grace Rousseau joins the Science Department as a Chemistry teacher. She is a
graduate of both Columbia University in the City of New York(MPA -
Environmental Science and Policy) and the University of Minnesota(MEd -
Curriculum and Instruction: Science). Grace came to Reading with over 27 years of
experience teaching Chemistry and Environmental Science in the Minneapolis Public
Schools. She is an experienced veteran teacher with international experience that
includes a US Department of State fellowship, an internship at the National Academy
of Math and Science in Thailand and as a US Peace Corps volunteer in Kenya.
SOCIAL STUDIES
Kara Gleason and Megan Howie had a two-part article titled "Lives Lived Unfree: Stories
of Reading's Enslaved" published in the Daily Times Chronicle in October 2018.
Students in the History and Science ofEpidemic Disease course created and led tour talks in
downtown Boston on the subject of Smallpox in Colonial Boston. The course also hosted a
guest speaker from Positive Educators Reaching Youth who spoke about living with HIV and
resilience in the face of difficulties.
RMHS Alumni Rachel Vinciguerra(Class of 2010) and Cristina Cuscuna(Class of 2012)
spoke to the History & Science of Epidemic Disease class on topics related to service
learning experiences in Haiti and research work on gender equality issues which Rachel
presented to a committee at the United Nations
Members of the Social Studies department serve as advisers to the following clubs and
groups: Politics Club, Girl Rising, Habitat for Humanity, the RMHS Book Club, the
National Honor Society, and the Class of 2021.
Jess Bailey helped lead 24 students to work for Habitat for Humanity building homes in
North Carolina over this summer
ENGLISH
Building Community & Relationships
Summer Reading: To promote a culture of reading & engagement, approximately 36 faculty
and staff across disciplines offered their favorite book selections for students to choose from
for summer reading. In September during a Flex Block, students met with these book
sponsors for a discussion. Student leaders assisted teachers with group discussions and
reflected on this activity and their books in English classes that day. This whole-school
activity was deemed a success by students and staff alike.
111
hta.:ns://ann.drawilliams..wix.si'te..com/rmhssnummerreadin
Production: In April, over 800 students were treated to a production of To Kill a Mockingbird
by New Repertory Theater. This PTO-sponsored event brought to life the beloved novel that
all students read freshman year.
Honors British Literature: Juniors in Zachary Broken Rope's class wrote and delivered
children's stories to the RISE preschool that were inspired by Geoffrey Chaucer's The
Canterbury Tales.
Poetry: Seniors in Leia Richardson's Poetry electives created and taught a poetry lesson to
third graders at Killam Elementary. Seniors led the youngsters in a lesson on metaphors and
similes.
The Unity Project: In May, Leia Richardson partnered with Student Council to bring The
Unity Project to RMHS--an interactive art display celebrating our differences as strengths.
Curriculum & Professional Development
Collapsed Level Professional Development: Throughout the entire school year, the English
Department was involved in ongoing professional development with Keys to Literacy and
Engaging Schools. The goal was to learn and implement strategies to differentiate
instruction in heterogeneous groupings at the Strong College Prep level, grades 9-12.
Separately, the department also attended a full day session with consultant Gene Thompson-
Grove in October.
Summer Professional Development: Teachers of Strong College Prep in grades 9 through 12
met over the summer to discuss and align curriculum expectations in light of collapsed levels
in SCP.
AP Lange & Composition: Heather Lombardo attended the College Board's AP Institute
this July in St. Johnsbury, VT. The department has expanded our AP offerings by
implementing the AP Language & Composition course this year.
Club Activities
The New Currency: The New Currency is the literary and visual arts magazine of Reading
Memorial High School. We provide a place where students can publish their work, as well as
hone their decision-making skills in regard to the publication process. We believe that art,
whether written, drawn, photographed or graphically designed, deserves to be shared and
showcased. Club members meet under the advisorship of English teacher Kate Crosby every
Tuesday. The New Currency can be found at vvww,;,I�ewcl.j q..g t.i.c..yn1jpg,.weebly..con i
112
The Orbit: The Orbit is RMHS's school newspaper advised by English teacher Zac Broken
Rope. Students meet every Tuesday and update the newspaper on an ongoing basis. The
Orbit can be found at h //rmhsorbitt,wix.site.,com/orbit.
Playwriting: Meeting every Wednesday evening from January through April under the
leadership of English teacher Leia Richardson, students craft their own original plays for a
showcase in the spring and, annually, two students receive the honor of having their plays
professionally directed and performed on stage at Boston Playwrights Theatre.
Class Advisors: Alexandra Lynch-DiSorbo and Christina Clawson continue to serve as Co-
Advisors to the Class of 2020. Zachary Broken Rope serves as a co-advisor to the Class of
2019.
Yearbook: Nathaniel Smith and Alexandra Lynch-DiSorbo served as co-advisors to the
senior yearbook last year. Natty continues to do so this year.
Bevond the Classroom
Guest Speakers: During Semester 1, Zachary Broken Rope and Audra Williams' Diverse
Voices seniors were treated to a question and answer session with Pakistani student, Arooj
Behamni, who was studying in the U.S. She discussed Islamic culture and cultural
differences observed during her time in the States.
Field Trip: Sophomore teachers Leia Richardson, Jane Cunningham, and Nathaniel Smith all
spearheaded field trips to Walden Pond with their sophomores last fall in conjunction with
their students' study of Transcendentalism.
Travel Abroad: Kate Crosby, Audra Williams, and Zachary Broken Rope all chaperoned a
school-sponsored trip to Europe this summer. Forty students and five chaperones traversed
Scotland and Ireland during the two-week trip.
Habitat for Humanity: Zachary Broken Rope was part of the teacher team that led students on
the annual Habitat for Humanity trip in August in North Carolina.
n Tlef sh I)cL)artmcnt Vaff
New Teacher: Daniel Amaral joins the English Department this year. Previously a
paraprofessional at Coolidge Middle School and a student teacher at RMHS prior to that,
Dan graduated from the University of Massachusetts at Lowell with a Masters in Curriculum
and Instruction. Leia Richardson serves as his mentor.
Professional Endeavors: Alexandra Lynch-Disorbo has begun a CAGS program through
American University, Jane Cunningham engaged in various English-related courses over the
113
summer to improve teaching and learning; Kate Crosby continues to take classes at Grub
Street and write fiction in her spare time.
Conference Presentation & Doctoral Studies: Andrea Mooney had a conference publication
and presented original research at the American Educational Research Association's 2018
annual conference in NYC. She continues to pursue her doctorate in Literacy Studies from
UMass Lowell.
RMHS PERFORMING ARTS DEPARTMENT
The Choral, Band, and Drama Departments are working collaboratively with fundraisers
and supporting each other's events.
ARTS SPIRIT NIGHT was alive and well in September when the Choruses and Drama Club
students attended a Friday night football game to support their fellow students: the football
players, cheerleaders, marching band, and color guard!
The Performing Arts Department held their annual Informal Recital and Formal Recital.Our young
musicians shared their many talents with audience members.
RMHS BAND & COLOR GUARD
The Marching Band and Jazz Bands received several awards in competitions throughout the
year.
RMHS BPO successfully hosted a NESBA Marching Band competition.
Jazz Ensemble was invited to play at the hatch shell for the 141h time.
RMHS BPO Hosted both the MAJE Northeast Senior and Junior District Festivals.
Several musicians were recognized for outstanding musicianship at competitions.
RMHS BPO (Reading Memorial High School Band Parent Organization), continues to
support instrumental opportunities for our students.
Several students were accepted to the Northeast Senior and Junior District Festival.
Three students were accepted to the Massachusetts All State Ensembles.
RMHS CHORAL MUSIC
114
Many music students were accepted into the Northeastern Senior Districts and Jr. Districts Music
Festivals.
Two members of the Class of 2019 performed with the All-State Festival Chorus at Symphony
Hall in March. These same students have applied to sing with the 2019 All Eastern Honors
Ensemble.
The Choral Department's performing groups performed at many events throughout the year(Pep
Rally,Festival of Trees,Dickens Holiday Craft Faire,Martin Luther King Day, Baccalaureate,
Graduation)as well as performing at various Town events.
The Mixed Choir and Select Choirs performed at ARTSFEST 2018. Former Assistant
Superintendent,Mr. Craig Martin,was the guest soloist for Mixed Choir's"You Will Be Found"
from the musical Dear Evan Hanson.
The choruses participated in the Reading Embraces Diversity's STOP THE HATE event held in
October.
RMHS DRAMA
The RMHS Drama Club had a full year of performances, community outreach projects and
student learning.
After more holiday cheer being spread through our involvement in the REF Festival of Trees
and the Dicken's Holiday Craft Fair hosted by Parent's Supporting Student Theatre we went
into the new year with full hearts.
First,performed in February was "The Workshop". This production, directed by guest
director Catherine Bertrand was a devised piece of theatre where students created a visual
collection of speeches, scenes and personal stories that all focused on the importance of
finding one's voice. Students dealt with topical challenges they face daily—from hate acts, to
gender inequality, to anxiety and self-doubt. The show was a triumph and had a lasting
impact on audiences.
Following "The Workshop" was our production of Mary Chase's classic play "Harvey". A
period piece that was a challenge and a master class in comedic timing and stylized acting.
The small ensemble had a large success in charming audiences, while also learning about the
subtle commentary on social judgement and being true to oneself. The show was a delight.
115
Our spring season began quickly after the final bow of"Harvey". "Charlotte's Web," E.B
White's classic story about a pig named Wilbur and his unlikely friend Charlotte the spider,
started rehearsing in early March. In an effort to reach out to the younger students of the
community, the RMHS Drama Club students hosted the first annual "Reading is Fun Fair" in
collaboration with the Reading Public Library. A Fair themed day of games, face painting,
story-telling, book characters coming to life, snacks and music turned Birch Meadow's
cafeteria and gymnasium into an idyllic fair ground.
This year is shaping up to be another great one. We have been rehearsing and practicing for
our fall musical "MAMMA MIA" which opens November 9th and runs until November 18th—
After the sequel's theatrical release this summer, and the 10 year anniversary of the original
film- we hope to see large audiences dancing in the aisles with us this weekend. We hope this
show will be the visual vacation we all need.
ART DEPARTMENT
Students won awards in all categories at The Boston Globe Scholastic Art awards, including
drawing,painting, sculpture, ceramics and photography.
This year students participated in Youth Art Month, a juried art show, where student work
was displayed at the Transportation Building in Boston.
In May 2017, Juniors and Seniors in Studio art and AP Art presented their artwork for the AP
Art Show.
Art teachers post to Instagram on a daily basis highlighting the day to day accomplishments
of the students in the art classrooms.
Art teachers presented and promoted art classes to Parker and Coolidge students in order
to introduce the courses to incoming freshman.
RMHS ATHLETICS
Middlesex League Championships:
Gymnastics 2017-2018
Boys Lacrosse 2018
More Accomplishments:
Girls Swimming 2018 State Champions
Gymnastics finished 4t' in States
116
Boys Lacrosse 2018 State Champions
Gymnast Maddie Doyle won the Balance Beam Event in the New England High School
Championships
RMHS Health and Wellness Dept Accomplishments 2018
Continuation of the financial support for inspections, maintenance, and licensing, RMHS has
been able to continue our Challenge Course offerings during 101h-12Th grade PE classes
Health and Wellness Department members were engaged in professional development
through Project Adventure for challenge course activities, improve content and skills-based
knowledge around vaping, and creating safe space for LGBTQ+ students.
117
Arthur W. Coolidge Middle School:
Annual Report, 2018
Sarah Marchant, Principal
Brienne Karow,Assistant Principal
Introduction
The mission of Coolidge Middle School is to create a challenging and respec it environment for
all students and to provide the varied experiences necessary for becoming confident,
independent learners. The Arthur W. Coolidge Middle School continues to strengthen this
mission by fostering a "learning community"for all, including staff, students, and parents. Our
school community is characterized by a shared mission and vision, collective inquiry that
accompanies a constant striving to improve, an organizational structure of collaborative teams
that share a common purpose, a willingness to try new approaches, and annual self-assessment
to examine results. As we continue striving to successfully address the social,physical,
intellectual, and emotional needs of all our students, we look forward to accomplishing the new
goals set forth in our School Improvement Plan while at the same time, we celebrate our
successes of the previous year. Below are just a few of the highlights...
Coolidte Core Values
The foundation of the Coolidge community are its core values of Perseverance, Accountability,
Respect, and Teamwork. All members of the Coolidge community are expected to be
"P.A.R.T." of these core values, including students, staff, and parents.
Academic, Behavior, and Emotional Support and Alignment
Students are best ready to learn and to maximize their potential when they feel emotionally safe
and present, and when behaviors are not interrupting their learning. To that end, we support all
students socially, emotionally, behaviorally, and academically. We continue to develop the
capacity of the staff, as well as our resources, to support these efforts.
Positive Behavior & Supports
Coolidge continues to use its Core Values at the core of its daily principals for students and staff
alike. These core values are modeled, taught, reinforced, and refined for different locations in
the school. Following a year-long kick-off by our leadership team, all staff have now integrated
many positive behavior incentives for students, including a ticket system for when students
model what is expected; students who go"above and beyond" are awarded the prestigious
Coolidge Commendation awards.
Facing History and Ourselves: Development and Implementation of a new Advisory
Program
Thanks to the support of the district's School Transformation Grant, both middle schools joined
with the "Facing History and Ourselves" organization to develop a series of Advisory sessions
that went into effect in the fall of 2017. These sessions, completed in small advisory groups
consisting of one teacher and 13-14 students, cover topics such as identity, community,
membership in communities, bias, and building empathy. This resource has provided a
consistent advisory experience for all Reading middle schoolers, in an effort to fight bullying.
118
Tiered Interventions: Strengthening Tier 1; Developing Tier 2
This year, the concept and use of tiered interventions have become common practice in our
everyday plan of what we provide for students. We continue to focus on building strong Tier 1
instruction and support so that all students have a strong foundation for academic, behavioral,
and social-emotional development. We have built structures to better support Tier 2 supports
within the school day through the implementation of a"What I Need" intervention block, which
is provided two mornings a week for 22 minutes.
Student Support Team Process Developed and Formalized
After a year of research, development and piloting, Coolidge now has a formalized Student
Support Team. The SST is a team consisting of a mix of an administrator, student support staff,
and other teachers who work together to help teams of teachers to provide supports for struggling
students when our more standard Tier 2 supports, or DCAP supports, are not meeting student
needs.
Student Activities and Programs
Enriching opportunities strongly enhance the middle school program. To that end, we provide as
many enriching opportunities as possible, many of which are supported by the Coolidge PTO
and other financial supports in the district. Some examples include:
"Welcome to Coolidge" for Incoming 6th Grade
In August, we once again offered our acclaimed transition program Welcome to Coolidge for
incoming 6 1 grade students. This program prepares students for a stress-free start to the school
year. Participants get to know some staff members, become comfortable with the building layout,
locate their locker(and learn how to open a combination lock), and know what is expected of a
sixth grade student. They get to review their middle school schedule,participate in team
building activities, and learn about the importance of a"growth mindset". Over a hundred
students attended, and students not only learned useful information...but also (and most
importantly) had a great time!
"Challenge Day" for All 8th Grade Students
Thanks to the support and vision of our district, and as one social-emotional support offered to
our students, all of the 8h graders in our district participated in"Challenge Day" over the course
of four days in October. On each day, two Challenge Day leaders guided 81h graders, along with
adults (parents, administration, school committee members, and staff), through the experience
over the course of a school day. The purpose of Challenge Day is for"every child (and adult)to
feel safe, loved, and celebrated", to be honest and proud about who we are, and to appreciate and
respect others for who they are.
"Nature's Classroom" at Prindle Pond
Coolidge 7 1 graders participated in our 251h annual Nature's Classroom program at Prindle Pond
during April break.
119
Trip to the White Mountains
In June, Team Pegasus 8h graders visited the White Mountains to participate in team-building
and leadership-promoting activities, including a high-ropes course, a hike up Indian Head
mountain and a zip line.
Trip to Quebec
In May, Team Gemini 81h graders traveled to Quebec City. Students had the opportunity to use
their French language,partake in French cuisine, and visit many famous sites in Quebec. Thanks
to all of the students who attended for being wonderful representatives of the school, and to
Coolidge teachers for chaperoning the adventures.
Student Mentors
Ms. Karow, Assistant Principal, continued to support our very successful student mentor
program. This program consists of high school students and Coolidge 81h graders who volunteer
to mentor younger students. This program has helped many middle school students to attain
better organizational skills, achieve at higher academic levels, and make better social
connections.
Coolidge Drama Presents Honk, Jr.
In January 2018, Coolidge Drama Club enjoyed producing the musical Honk, Jr., and it was a
great success. Congratulations to Director Lori Loussedes, Musical Coordinator Anna Wentlent,
and to all the cast and crew!
25th Annual "Olympiad Day"
In January 2017, Coolidge held our annual John F. McCarthy Olympiad Day. This day is a
wonderful tradition at Coolidge and brings the entire school community together. Thanks to all
the parent volunteers,to all the students, to all the staff for once again coordinating a very
successful and enjoyable day, and to the Coolidge PTO, who financially supports the day.
Family Math& Science Night
In March, Coolidge presented its annual Family Math& Science Night for students in grades 5 -
8 and their family members. Hundreds of students and parents enjoyed a fun evening of math,
science, engineering, and technology activities. It also provided an excellent transition activity
for the fall's entering 6 1 graders. Special thanks to Coolidge math teachers Lisa Emma and Amy
Kasprzak for coordinating this night, and to all the parents and teachers who volunteered their
time and efforts to make the evening a success.
Special Olympics
For the last 14 years, students from the Reading Public Schools have participated in the annual
Special Olympics. This year, Reading (and Coolidge) again sent many athletes to participate in
the track and field events, and the spirit and enthusiasm by our athletes, coaches, and their
supporters were incredible. Congratulations to all the medal winners and thanks to all the
Reading staff and students who participated this year! Special thanks also go out to Ms. Herlihy
for coordinating the trip for the students that day, and to all the district's staff and students who
represented Reading so proudly at this event.
120
ADL Training and Leadership
20+ Coolidge students in the Anti-Defamation League's "A World of Difference" program
participated in trainings, Move-Up Day, school assemblies, and led 6h graders through activities
to build empathy.
School-Based Outreach
In December, Coolidge students visited Birch Meadow to help support the National Hour of
Code.
PTO Supports Enrichment,After School Activities, and Assemblies
Many special events were made possible at Coolidge thanks to the financial sponsorship of the
PTO, including: Family Math and Science Night; Field Day; Olympiad Day; Tanglewood
Marionettes; a professional Romeo & Juliet production, and much more!
Additional Enrichment Opportunities
Additional enrichment opportunities (made possible by district grants) included: PASS Class, the
yearly musical, Student Council, Student Yearbook and A World of Difference.
Student Honors
Coolidge was proud that many students were again recognized for their talents in various
programs and/or competitions throughout the year. Just a few examples include:
Science Olympiad Team: State Champs and National Competitors
In March, the Coolidge Science Olympiad Team won first place in the Massachusetts Middle
School Science Olympiad State Competition at Assumption College in Worcester,
Massachusetts. This is the 25h year that the team has earned the honor of representing the
Commonwealth of Massachusetts at the National Science Olympiad Competition, which took
place in May at Wright State University. The team placed 401h out of 60 teams. Congratulations
to all the students on the team, to Head Coach Karawan Meade, to Assistant Coaches Jerald
Coyne and Daniel Cody, and to all the other teachers, coaches, community members, and high
school team alumni who guided and supported this year's team! Congratulations and thanks as
well to the parent organization whose support helps to make everything possible!
Jazz Band Receives Gold Medal
Congratulations to all the students of the Middle School Jazz Band for receiving a gold medal at
the Massachusetts Association for Jazz Education Festival!
Northeastern Junior District Music Festival
Twelve Coolidge students were selected(by audition) for the Northeast Massachusetts District
Junior Music Festival, a prestigious Massachusetts Music Educators' Association event. The
program, for students in grades six through nine, is offered by the M.M.E.A. as an enrichment
opportunity,providing a musical experience to talented young people. These students were
chosen from among hundreds of students at the regional auditions in Methuen. Congratulations
to everyone on this great achievement!
121
Geography Bee
Congratulations to all the students who participated in the annual Coolidge Geography Bee, and
especially to the 2018 Bee Champion, 81h grader Dylan Herlihy, whose win was the third in three
consecutive years. Thanks go out also to the Social Studies teachers of Coolidge for serving as
organizers and judges for the bee, and to John Doherty, Superintendent of Schools, for being the
host and moderator of this all-school event. Great job, everyone!
Art Awards and Recognition
• Six students had artwork featured at the MAEA show in Boston at the Transportation
building.
• 7 t grader Lucy Weld had a winning entry for the MAEA state flag competition.
Charity and Community Awareness
All Coolidge students participated in various community service events, including Coat's for
Kids drive, aid to Lazarus House following the gas explosions, items for a local animal shelter,
pull tabs for Shriner's, Halloween candy for troops overseas, pen pals with Barrows students,
and a food drive for the Reading Food Pantry.
Ben's Big Benefit Show
In June 2018, 8th grader Ben Mini organized, hosted, and headlined the third annual Ben's Big
Benefit Concert to raise money for Cradles to Crayons, the Reading Food Pantry, and a music-
focused charity in the Boston area. Several other Coolidge students and student groups
performed at the concert.
Professional Development, School Improvement Efforts, and Staff/School Honors
The Coolidge community again coordinated and/or participated in many initiatives and events in
order to build school spirit, to assess our current programs, and to sustain our continuous
improvement efforts. Below are just a few examples from the year:
Facing History and Ourselves
To help build staff capacity with the Facing History concepts, as well as to support our staff with
leading Advisory groups using the Facing History curriculum, all Coolidge teachers and some
paraeducators went through one full day of training at the start of the school year and a second
two-hour training in December. This training was facilitated by the Facing History and
Ourselves staff.
Blue Ribbon National Institute
Coolidge teachers attended and presented at several conferences including Reading's Blue
Ribbon Institute and the Massachusetts Association of Science Teachers annual conference.
Professional Development
Coolidge teachers participated in various professional development opportunities, including
Facing History and Ourselves trainings, Anti-Bias training with the ADL, QBD de-escalation
training, Youth Mental Health First Aid, Writer's Workshop, Fountas and Pinnell training at
Lesley College, Landmark, Teacher's College, and a school-based"Unconference" led by our
amazing teachers!
122
Coolidge Receives Multiple Grants from the Reading Education Foundation
• A computer cart, with 32 laptops, to provide increased access to digital and primary
sources in Social Studies classes.
• A set of 10 soprano ukuleles for music classes.
• "Wonder Day" for the 8th grade (including the purchase of 100 copies of the book
Wonder).
123
Walter S. Parker Middle School
2018 Annual Report
Richele Shankland, Principal
Brendan Norton,Assistant Principal
Introduction:
The Walter S. Parker Middle School is a school community dedicated to the core values of
kindness, community and personal best. Through a true middle school model, team-based
approach, the staff focuses on developing and teaching the whole-child.
Mission Statement:
At the Parker Middle School we strive to maintain a school culture that balances a rigorous and
engaging learning community with a child-centered environment that honors the individual talents
and struggles of every child. We acknowledge that, in the middle school years, our students face
some of the most dramatic physical, social and emotional growth of their lives. Thus, it is our
responsibility, in partnership with parents, to teach critical skills and provide the adult guidance
that will help students grow to lead confident, responsible and productive lives.
Student Activities and Programs
Welcome to Parker for Incoming 6th Grade Students
In August, we offered our annual transition program for incoming 6th graders. Students have the
opportunity to become familiar with the school, their schedules, and several of our 6" grade
teachers. Some of our Parker Leaders participated and played a huge role in setting incoming
students at ease by answering questions/providing insight and perspective.
Advisory
New this year...students participate in one-two 40-minute advisory periods per week using
resources from Facing History and Ourselves. The advisory program is designed to strengthen
connectedness between adults and students and to 'foster a personalized and supportive school
culture." In advisory time, students will be given opportunities to explore themes from Facing
History and Ourselves such as bullying, ostracism and participation from a social and emotional
perspective. Conversations and relationships built in advisory contribute to a caring, responsible
and responsive school culture. Students develop a sense of who they can become, exercise their
voice, explore relevant ethical and social issues, and then be more disposed to contribute to school
and the larger community.
Challenze Day for 8th Grade Students
For our fourth year, 81h grade students participated in Challenge Day. Each team had their own day
with two Challenge Day leaders and 23 adults (parents, teachers, administrators, school resource
officer, community members). A focus on social-emotional learning, the purpose of the day is to
"I) provide teens and adults with tools to break down the walls of separation and isolation and
replace them with compassion. 2) To inspire people to live, study and work in an environment of
acceptance, love and respect. 3) To stand for a world where everyone feels safe, loved and
celebrated."
124
Nature's Classroom, Becket, MA
Parker 7�h grade students participated in our annual Nature's Classroom program in October. Mr.
Brendan Norton coordinated the 3 day/2 night trip. At Nature's Classroom, students take an
active role in their education by participating in exciting hands-on motivational activities which
are both academic and enjoyable. The project-oriented classes and night-time activities offer
opportunities for community building and extending their learning outside of the classroom.
Quebec Trip
Eighth grade French students traveled to Quebec in April. Complete immersion into the culture
allowed for students to use their French language, visit historical sites and enjoy French cuisine.
Parker Leaders
About 26 sixth, seventh and eighth grade Parker students helped to organize and facilitate many
of the community service projects throughout the school year. A new project this year was a
collaboration with the Tannerville assisted living residents to hold a holiday social with games,
food, crafts and conversation. Parker students have also volunteered to assist with evening school
activities, including but not limited to, curriculum/transition nights, Welcome to Parker, open
house, etc.
A World of Difference
New to Parker this year...AWOD's mission is to make our school a safe place for everyone,
regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, gender, nationality, sexual orientation, or physical and
mental abilities. Members are trained to educate peers about inclusion and respect. At the middle
school level, trained members facilitate activities in grade 6 classrooms, school-wide efforts and
serve as role models in the school. We have 22 students participating in AWOD for the 2018-
2019 school year.
Peer Tutors
Mrs. Meg Powers, our instructional technology specialist/teacher, hosts the 81h grade peer tutors
on Mondays to assist any Parker students with their homework, organization and/or study skills.
Parker Drama:My Son Pinocchio, Jr.
Over 100 students participated in either cast or crew roles in My Son Pinocchio, Jr. in March.
Select Chorus
In December, the Select Chorus performed at the Senior Center.
Science Olympiad
Every March, Parker's Science Olympiad Team competes against other middle schools state-
wide. The competition is typically held at Assumption College. Our team meets every Monday
throughout the school-year.
School Based Outreach
Our 8h grade students visited Joshua Eaton Elementary School to share their science stories with
younger students. Every spring, we have eighth grade students visit Joshua Eaton and Barrows
Elementary Schools with Mr. Norton (Assistant Principal)to speak with 5 1 graders about the
125
transition to middle school. Every spring, multiple Parker students visit the same schools with
Mr. Norton (band teacher) and Mrs. Di Muzio (chorus/music teacher)to talk about our band and
choral programs.
Enrichment Opportunities Offered Within the School Day
Every year, students participate in a variety of curriculum-based activities during the school day.
These activities are largely funded by our Parker PTO. In 2018, this included the following
activities: WISE(see below), 6th grade Dirt Detectives/Spencer Pierce Farm field trip, 7th grade
field trip to see A Christmas Carol at the Northshore Music Theater, 6th grade Myth Masters
Assembly, 81h grade Romeo and Juliet assembly with Shakespeare Now, and a school-wide
assembly with Dr. Anna Ornstein (Holocaust survivor).
Spanish Field Trip
8th grade Spanish students enjoyed a day field trip to a restaurant for lunch and a demonstration
of how fresh salsa and guacamole are made. Then,they go to Studio 665, in Woburn, to have
lessons on salsa and merengue dancing.
Enrichment Opportunities Offered Outside of the School Day
Although our after-school activities change throughout the year and from year to year based on
student and teacher interests, the following after school activities have been available to Parker
students: math team, Science Olympiad, GSA, Jazz Band, Select Chorus, art club, needlework,
study skills, fitness, basketball, open gym, chess club, anime, chess etc. In addition to these
activities, we also have homework club and after school library hours until 4:00 pm.
Special Acknowledgements
Parker Music Department Accomplishments for 2018
• Reading Middle Schools Jazz Band—Gold medal at the MAJE competition, as well as
performing at both Parker& Coolidge spring &winter concerts.
• Band day at RMHS —7th & 8th grade bands combined with CMS & RMHS bands.
• Brought in 2 clinicians/adjudicators to assess and work our 8th grade band& chorus in
preparation for the spring concerts. These clinics were observed by the 7th grade
band/chorus students as an educational activity. The day concluded with an after-school
trip to Canobie Lake.
• 8th grade chorus performed for the Final Day of School Assemblies.
• Decorated& donated a Christmas tree for the REF Festival of Trees.
• Middle Schools Select Chorus performed at the Reading Senior Center.
• Parker Wind Ensemble: performed at winter& spring concerts.
• Parker Percussion Ensemble: performed at the spring concert.
• Select Chorus performed for the spring & winter concerts for both Coolidge & Parker.
• Arts Fest: 6th, 7th/8th grade groups rehearsed& performed together with Coolidge
ensembles. Organized a food drive for the Reading Food Pantry as part of ArtsFest(over
20 boxes of food were donated by music/art families and delivered to the Pantry).
• Instrument Nights (2 nights for 5th grade students to try instruments to aid in appropriate
instrument selection).
126
• Several middle school band/chorus students (with Mr. Norton & Mrs. DiMuzio)went to
Killam, Eaton, & Barrows to do music demo for 5 I graders.
• Move-up day performances of the 6 I grade band& 6 I grade chorus.
• 6th 7th, & 8t' grade spring & winter concerts —6 in total.
Parker National Geographic Bee
Ten students participated in the 2018 Parker National Geographic Bee. A Parker student qualified
for the state level competition for the first time.
Blueprint for Educational Excellence Annual Institute
In March 2018,Parker teachers participated in the Blue Ribbon Conference held in Reading. Three
Parker staff presented their own workshops.
Students from Ecuador Visit Parker in March
Our 7 t and 8th grade teachers, and students hosted 7 students from Ecuador for 5 weeks in the
spring. They were completely immersed in the culture of Reading and the Parker community. Our
students were paired with Equadorian students and were terrific ambassadors representing our
community.
Will McDonough Boston Sports Museum Essay Writing Contest
Three sixth grade students won Honorable mention this contest in 2018.
Northeastern Junior District Music Festival
Twenty-two Parker students were selected after auditions for the 2018 Northeast Massachusetts
District Junior Music Festival, a prestigious Massachusetts Music Educators' Association event.
The program, for students in grades six through nine, is offered by the M.M.E.A. as an
enrichment opportunity, providing a musical experience to talented young people. These students
were chosen from hundreds of students at the regional auditions in Methuen.
Math Team
The Parker 7/8 Math Team placed second overall in their division.
Community Service/Awareness
Along-side many teacher leaders, our Parker Leaders facilitate the following community
outreach efforts:
✓ Reading Food Pantry Food Drive.
✓ Coats for Kids —Partnership with Anton's Cleaners to collect gently used coats for kids
and adults.
✓ Tannerville Social —Parker Leaders and advisors coordinated and participated in a
holiday social event with seniors.
✓ Festival of Trees —Parker students/teachers and PTO donated FOUR trees for 2017.
✓ Hoops for Heart—Parker students raise money for the American Heart Association by
participating in a 3 on 3 basketball tournament.
✓ Cribbage Tournament—Pairs students with senior citizens from the Reading Senior
Center.
✓ Math-a-thon—Math competition benefiting St. Jude's Hospital.
127
✓ Showcase for a Cause— Students planned and facilitated the second annual Showcase for
a Cause.
Professional Development
Parker Teachers participated in the following professional development opportunities: QBS
Training, Mentor training, Addressing Educational Equity course through SEEM Collaborative,
Trauma 1 Course through Lesley University, Writer's/Reader's Workshop, Social Studies
curriculum development committees through both DESE and neighboring communities, Anti-
Defamation League led PD on anti-bias (all staff), Facing History and Ourselves: Advisory
curriculum training (all staff), A New Conversation about Race through FHAO, Social Justice
through FHAO, Holocaust Workshops through FHAO, Inclusive Practices with Adam
Hickey/Landmark Outreach(Oct 2018 to continue through the school year).
Reading Education Foundation: Grants
➢ Parker Connections — digital signage used to improve communication, safety,promote
after school activities, showcase student work/accomplishments.
➢ Empowering Girls of Color - African Dance & Hip-Hop workshops provided by Aysha
Upchurch, an accomplished dancer and scholar. Three workshops with only be open to
African American girls and two for any students (first come, first served basis).
128
A. M. Barrows Elementary School
Beth Leavitt, Principal
2018 Annual Report
2018 brought another year of engagement and excitement at Barrows Elementary. Barrows
continues to focus on teaching the whole child; academically, socially, and emotionally while
fostering a strong community of learners and their families.
The Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) Leadership committee worked throughout the
year to continue to build our Tier 1 of the Barrows' Beliefs (Be Respectful, Be Safe, Persevere,
Collaborate) and utilize the school-wide recognition utilizing star tickets, and also build in some
community incentives like an all-school dance parry and buddy class kickball games.
The Barrows staff continued to participate in professional development activities, both during
district Professional Learning Community (PLC) times and during building-based work. Areas
of focus included implementation of the Common Core Standards, Writers Workshop
curriculum, Open Circle, Math in Focus, technology, literacy, social emotional development,
data collection, school-wide initiatives, and strategies to meet the needs of our various students.
Barrows students participated in a school-wide "Students That are Readers Shine" (STARS)
Read-A-Thon and a Reach Out And Read event that teachers hosted Barrows families to join
them for a reading of their favorite stories. Barrows Shining Stars read a total of 203,102 minutes
during our Read-A-Thon! (Earning the fun of making their principal dress up in a silly costume!)
School Community/Social Emotional Learning
Our Barrows Social Emotional learning is a priority and continues to be a focus area for our
professional work. Our Barrows' Beliefs are embraced by all students and staff members who
can recite our core values (Be Respectful, Be Safe,Persevere, and Collaborate.) Our ongoing
positive recognition system celebrates students when they are "caught" showing expected
behaviors with an innovated online input system developed by Carina Becker and our MTSS
Leadership Team. Our ongoing efforts ensure that all staff members hold consistent expectations
and have common language to teach appropriate school behavior to our students. All Barrows
classroom teachers are trained in the social emotional curriculum of Open Circle, and lessons
continue to be shared with students across all grade levels. Buddy classrooms is a Barrows
tradition that partners upper grade-levels (3-5)with a younger buddy in a lower grade-level (K-2)
to read to each other, do collaborative activities, and create positive relationships across our
grade-levels. Our annual winter holiday sing-along was a great event that partnered buddy
classrooms together to sing winter songs in their cozy pajamas.
Students
Barrows Elementary School served around 370 students ranging from kindergarten through
grade five. There are three classrooms of each grade level, 4 third grade classrooms, and three
kindergarten classrooms.
129
Grade Five Field Trip
Fifth grade students attended the overnight field trip to Camp Cody in New Hampshire to take
part in hands-on science and team building activities with peers from all five elementary
Schools.
School Council
The Barrows School Council is flourishing with participation from many staff,parents, and
community members.
Technolow
The technology enhancement within our school is more than another tool. It provides access for
many students including online learning supports differentiated for student needs, increased
access, and opening doors to new content and methodology that would not have been previously
available. Every classroom in the school has 5 IPADs (with some classrooms having up to 12!)
for students to use in their learning. Additionally, each classroom is equipped with an interactive
projector and/or SmartBoard, laptop computer, and Redcat voice amplification devices to
support needs of all learners. Generous donations from the Reading Education Foundation have
provided robots for our MakerSpace learning in our library/media center and document cameras
for use across classrooms. Additional resources include a flexible iPad cart, and 3 mobile laptop
carts for use within the classroom settings. All students are enrolled in an online individualized
instructional program called MobyMax to supplement and enhance the independent practice
across curriculum areas. Our staff also have access to online resources and tools (including
DiscoveryEducation, Learning A-Z, and BrainPop)to enhance their instruction thanks to the
generosity of our PTO.
Safety, Health, and Wellness
Barrows, along with all schools in the Reading district, continued to emphasize the safety on
daily activities. Barrows continues to train staff to implement the A.L.i.C.E. enhanced safety
procedures and continues to conduct safety drills to ensure consistency of safety protocols.
Additional work on safety includes evaluation and enhancement of the security of the building
facilities, student,parent, and staff training about anti-bullying policies and prevention, and
more.
The Barrows Wellness, Allergy, Safety, and Health(W.A.S.H) committee meets monthly to
discuss important themes and plan various communication and tasks in the areas of safety and
wellness. During the 2018 school year our WASH committee hosted our all-school field day
with great community involvement. The WASH committee has also invested in resources for
parents to talk with their students about health topics and communicates important themes
through our weekly newsletter. The WASH committee has also worked to develop a pilot Snack
Cart to explore the potential of increasing nutritional access to healthy snacks for students.
Community Outreach and Student Enrichment
Barrows continues to keep Community Outreach as an opportunity for our all children. As in the
past years, our young students are learning to be future leaders through the Student Council. As
leaders, the members work with the younger grades to present information about upcoming
events. Our student council have held highly successful food drives to support our local food
130
bank, and many of our local student groups (scouts, etc.) have held collections in support of local
community agencies. In the fall of 2018 our school community adopted a school in Houston
impacted by the Hurricane and raised close to $2,000 for their school (with the support of Parker
Middle School!) Our wider school community donated hundreds of pounds of candy to our
troops and veterans through Operation Gratitude and Andrew Herlihy has organized 5h grade
Safety Stars to support teachers and students during morning drop off, afternoon dismissal, and
supporting teachers in their classrooms.
Barrows all-school assemblies have been a great way to strengthen the feelings of community for
our K-5 family. Assemblies have included a focus on our Barrows' Beliefs, a winter all-school
sing along, and a recognition of veterans from Barrows families for Veterans Day. The Barrows
PTO continues to provide enrichment opportunities through speakers,presentations, and field
trips to all grades in the school. Local illustrator Scott Magoon was brought in to share his work
with students grades K-5.
Parent Involvement
The Barrows PTO and Barrows parents and families continue to be a strong support system for
the Barrows community. Their generous support of both time and money has been mentioned
above. The Barrows PTO supports annual events including the Back to School Picnic,
Halloween Monster Mash, Winter Craft Fair, Beautification Day, Fun Run, Ice Cream Social,
and Book Fairs. These events create opportunities for the Barrows Community to celebrate
together.
In conclusion, Barrows continues to be an enriching and vibrant learning environment. We are
appreciative to have the opportunity to teach the children of Reading. We hope to instill the
values that are important to the community, create a love of learning, and prepare our students to
meet the challenges of the world that awaits them.
131
Birch Meadow Elementary School
Principal Julia Hendrix
Annual Report 2018
Birch Meadow Elementary School is focused on educating, challenging and encouraging all
students while serving their unique academic,physical, social and emotional needs. Staff and
students model themselves after our core values of being present, safe, kind, responsible and
respectful.
School Mission Statement
Birch Meadow strives to address the needs of the whole child by providing a positive, safe,
caring and inclusive learning environment built on respect. As a community, we believe that all
children have the potential to develop the skills to be lifelong learners and well equipped for our
21st century global society.
Family and Community Partnerships
• The School Site Council meets once a month engaging parents and staff in ongoing
discussions that support and enhance student learning.
• Our Wellness,Allergy, Safety and Health(WASH) committee consisting of teachers
and parents continues to meet regularly to commit to the safety of all students. WASH
organized and facilitated the health and wellness fair and engaged all students on topics
including nutrition, mindfulness and exercise. They also coordinated the monthly walk to
school days.
• PTO: We have a vibrant PTO that supports our school community in a variety of ways.
The PTO raises money to support field trips, enrichment programs, author days,
classroom materials, MCAS breakfasts, and much more. The Spooky Fun Fair, Monster
Mash, Ice Cream Social and Inter-Cultural Pot Luck evening are some of the traditions
that they help to keep alive. The annual intercultural pot luck evening celebrated diversity
through music, dance, food and activities.
• PTO Enrichment Events: The PTO financially and organizationally supports cultural
and academic enrichment at Birch Meadow. This year they have funded in school
enrichment and field trips, including, but not limited to the following:
o Kindergarten: Curious Creatures visit to Birch Meadow
o Ist Grade: Science Discovery Museum field trip
0 2nd Grade: Field Trip to Concord Museum
0 3rd Grade: Presentation on Pollination and Bees
0 4th Grade: Presentation on Wind Energy
0 5 t Grade: Field trip to the Boston Symphony Orchestra
132
• Read Across America: Each year Birch Meadow celebrates Read Across America in a
new and special way. The emphasis is always on books and reading with, of course, lots
of fun built in. A theme-based reading challenge is introduced to the students at an
assembly at the beginning of the month-long program with the intent of motivating
students to increase their reading. Over 95% of our students participated and celebrated
their success with memorable surprises and events at the closing assembly.
• Understanding Disabilities continued its presentations to all grade levels with
presentations on a wide range of disabilities by guest speakers.
• Reading Food Pantry Donation: Each year around the holidays, the staff collect
donations to the Reading Food Pantry. This year the staff donated a total of$350 to
support this organization's efforts.
Teaching and Learning
• The Birch Meadow staff continued to participate in professional development
opportunities around implementation of Writer's Workshop, Reader's Workshop,
mathematics, trauma informed schools, and social-emotional learning.
• Grade level data teams meet every 6 to 7 weeks to review data, address patterns raised in
the data, and plan interventions.
• The School Leadership Team meets bi-weekly. This year the team has reviewed literacy
data, worked on the School Improvement Plan, and planned our participation in Global
School Play Day.
• First and second grade teaching teams, including special educators, attended the
workshop "Developing Number Understandings K-2" led by facilitators from Math
Perspectives and have used that learning to implement center based math instruction in
their classrooms and to further their work with the online assessment system, Assessing
Math Concepts.
• Grade 3 and Grade 5 teaching teams attended professional development on implementing
Units of Study in Writer's Workshop provided by Beth Moore and Maggie Roberts.
• Kindergarten teachers attended professional development on launching Writer's
Workshop and implementing the Units of Study, led by Martha Horne.
• 4 1 and 5h grade students participated in an hour of code, the purpose of which is
expanding access to computer science by increasing participation and understanding.
Coolidge Middle School students mentored Birch students during this event.
133
• Birch Meadow students under the direction of our PE teacher,Patrick McCracken,
participated in Jump Rope for Heart, raising funds for the American Heart Association
and the Jolene Tewksbury Scholarship Fund.
• Using data, we continuously shift how we utilize our para-educators based on student
needs. We are constantly changing which interventions they are using and which
students they are using them with in order to best meet the needs of all of our learners.
Student Life
New Family Tour: This year Birch Meadow welcomed 12 new students in Grades 1 to 5.
These students and their families toured the school in August before the first day and saw their
classrooms.
Whole School Assemblies: Each month we have whole school assemblies based on our Core
Values and current events. Students of all grade levels assist the principal throughout each
assembly in leading the school through the different parts, including reading a welcoming
message and singing the school song. Students present information and ideas related to the Core
Values and themes of the Assembly.
5th Grade Buddies volunteered in kindergarten and first grade classrooms to help students and
teachers at the beginning and end of each day. During the first three weeks of school, fifth
graders helped kindergarten and first grade students in the lunch room each day.
134
Joshua Eaton Elementary School
Principal: LisaMarie Ippolito
2018 Annual Report
Mission: The Joshua Eaton Elementary School is committed to developing a community of
learners that are respectful of each other, our school culture, and our learning abilities, supportive
of our social, emotional and physical needs and prepared to make a positive contribution to our
school and the Reading Community. The Joshua Eaton Elementary School fosters an
environment that provides students with the skills required to work hard every day and achieve
individual learning goals and challenges.
Joshua Eaton Elementary School is one of 5 elementary schools within the Reading Public
Schools. It is located in a suburban setting approximately 20 miles north of Boston.
The Joshua Eaton School was built in 1949 and named after Joshua Eaton, the only
Revolutionary War soldier from Reading to lose his life in battle. When the school opened in
1949, it was selected as the best-designed elementary school house among the 38,000 whose
blueprints were submitted for national review.
New Student Orientation: This event took place in August 2018. It provided an opportunity for
incoming students and their families to visit Joshua Eaton, meet their classroom teachers, and
meet the new principal and classmates. This is a wonderful way to build new friendships before
the start of the new school year.
Back to School Night: All Joshua Eaton students and their families were welcomed back to
Joshua Eaton the night before school started. Students were able to visit the school, their
classrooms, and greet their friends. This event supported students not to have so many first day
jitters returning to school the next day.
Curriculum and Instruction
Curriculum Night: This year's Welcome Back/Curriculum Night was held during the second
week of school for grades K-5. This night was very informative and will help to get parents and
students back into the swing of school routines!
Reader's and Writer's Workshop: Each Reading Workshop session begins with a mini-
lesson. During each mini-lesson, the teacher introduces a specific concept, also known as
the teaching point. Most often, the teaching point focuses on a reading strategy or skill. The
teacher will explicitly model or demonstrate the skill for the stridents. Stridents then get a
chance to practice the skill or strategy on their own or with a partner. This part of the mini-
lesson is called the active engagement.
Writer's Workshop has been implemented in every grade level with a focus on providing
students opportunities to experience the various genres including narrative, informational,
opinion and persuasive. This model places an emphasis on the process of writing from planning
and organizing, to drafting, revising and editing, and finally to publishing.
135
Instructional Technology: is a key component to each child's educational experience through
the use of iPads and laptops, weekly sessions in the computer lab, use of databases for research,
and completion of grade-level research projects using a variety of media. Students also have
access to Lexia, BrainPop and Raz-Kids, to name a few, to provide students 21" Century skills.
Monthly Assemblies: Each month a different grade level hosted an all school assembly
discussing and teaching all they have learned about our core values; Practice Compassion, Act
Responsibly, Work Towards Success, Show Respect.
Mystery Readers: Joshua Eaton welcomed many community and school members as Mystery
Readers. The students were so excited to welcome Dr. Doherty, Fire Chief Burns, School
Committee Members Mr. Robinson and Ms. Webb.
Conferences: Parent/Teacher Conference Day was held on in November.
Understanding Disabilities: The Understanding Disabilities program continued this year with
volunteers working with students in Grades 1-5 to help children see beyond people's disabilities
and focus on the ways that we are all the same inside. Through the use of books, videos, and
hands on activities, the program helps children gain a greater understanding of what it might be
like to do things in a different way. The program stresses all that people with disabilities can do
and promotes a culture of inclusion and acceptance. Topics covered in the program: Physical
Disabilities, Hard of HearingNisual Impairments,Autism Spectrum
Disorder, Developmental Disabilities, Learning Disabilities, Emotional and Behavioral
Disorders and Food Allergies.
Safety Drills: In the fall, we held our annual lockdown drill and shelter in place drill. These
drills help to prepare staff and students for an emergency in the building that would require us to
"lock down" the building by securing all classrooms and offices.
Professional Development: As a district, the area of focus for professional development will be
the Writer's Workshop Model, delving into the Science standards and curriculum supports.
Through district opportunities, K-5 teachers will participate in professional development training
to support the implementation of the Lucy Calkin Writer's Workshop model tied to the
Massachusetts Literacy Standards.
Thanksgiving Food Drive
The Joshua Eaton family once again supported the Reading Food Pantry as part of our annual
Thanksgiving Assembly. The Student Council coordinated the food drive and assembly this year,
and dozens of boxes of food and necessities were again donated to the Reading Food Pantry.
Thanks to all the staff and students who donated to the food drive and supported so many,
especially for giving so many people something to be thankful for during the holiday season.
Safeties: Grade 5 students demonstrate their leadership skills by signing up to do various jobs
around Joshua Eaton. Examples of the jobs include sweeping the playground, hold doors, and
monitor hallways on indoor days. These are our future leaders in our community.
136
Parent Cafe: Once a month prior to the PTO meetings, Principal Ippolito hosts parents and
guardians for a Q&A session, as well as a presentation on educational topics. Some topics have
included MCAS, Dr. Doherty budget presentation and F&P reading assessment overview.
PTO
The Joshua Eaton PTO is an integral extension of our school community. They support the
many enrichment activities and field trips that the Joshua Eaton students attend. The PTO also
supports fun family events such as the Kindergarten Meet and Greet, Ice Cream Social,
Halloween Howl and many other events. The building staff and PTO work together to create
student involved fundraising events as well. The famous Jaguar Tracks, the weekly newsletter to
families, are also supported by this wonderful and very active group of parents!
Book Fair: Our annual Book Fair was held in September. This is an event that is loved by the
entire Joshua Eaton Community as it promotes reading and fosters a love of literature.
Enrichment Opportunities Offered Within the School Day
Each year, students participate in various curriculum-based enrichment opportunities offered
outside of the classroom during the school day.
Fifth grade students attended the overnight field trip to Camp Cody in New Hampshire to take
part in hands-on science and team building activities with peers from all five elementary
Schools.
137
J.W. Killam Elementary School
A T.R.R.F.C.C. Place to Be!
Reading Public Schools 2018 Annual Report
Principal Sarah A. Leveque
Introduction
The staff members of the J.W. Killam School are pleased to highlight some of our many
accomplishments from 2018. Each and every day, teachers enter the building ready to greet our
children,prepared to stretch their thinking, and support each other in the process. A teacher
wears many different hats, and the requirements of the work continue to evolve, and yet, our
teachers all welcomed the new year with a positive mindset and a commitment to grow.
Similarly, the role of families in schools feels more critical than ever and it is clear that Killam is
a neighborhood school that supports all children who come to learn, explore their surroundings,
and grow intellectually. Our commitment to the Reading children is strong and concentrated on
what our students need: a sense of belonging in an environment that focuses on teaching,
learning, and building positive relationships in a safe environment.
Mission Statement
The J.W. Killam Elementary School is T.R.R.F.C.C. place where everyone belongs, where
everyone achieves at their personal best, and where everyone's accomplishments are celebrated!
Our staff will work collaboratively to improve student learning and achievements so that every
child will leave the J.W. Killam Elementary School having met or exceeding district and state
standards.
Killam's Core Values
Trustworthy Respectful Responsible Fair Caring Citizens
Family and Community Partnerships
• The Killam School Council holds monthly meetings engaging parents and staff in
ongoing discussions that support and enhance student learning. The School Council is
working hard to examine and support the school improvement plan and the guidelines of
the school. The focus areas this year are as follows: MCAS Results, Attendance Issues,
Homework Guidelines, Mindfulness, and Community Assets to Support Schools and
Families.
• The Killam PTO continued to fund enrichment programs for Grades K-5 both with
curriculum related field trips and in-house enrichment programs.
• Killam parents and community members supported the Week of Code at Killam by
engaging students in an introduction to computer science. This is a global movement that
reaches tens of millions of kids.
138
• The Reading Education Foundation grants funded materials for our library such as an
"All Access Collection" to support students who are dyslexic and trade books to support
our Open Circle Social-Emotional Curriculum. They also supported our Tier II Mentor
program and curriculum training for the Leveled Literacy Intervention Program.
• Reading Rotary continues to donate backpacks with books for our Kindergarten students,
and trees to our Grade 5 students for Arbor Day.
• The Wellness, Allergy, Safety and Health (WASH) Committee consisting of teachers and
parents continues to meet regularly to commit to the safety of all students. The
Committee will support the focus areas of the School Council.
Student Activities, Programs, and Support
• The Killam Students Service Squad consists of fourth and fifth grade students who show
the Killam TRRFCC values on a consistent basis and are asked to model the core values
to the younger grades in a variety of opportunities such as supporting Kindergarten
students with dismissal and setting up technology stations before school in classrooms.
• In the 2018 school year, classes rotate through greeting the students with the morning
announcements. Students announce birthdays, fun facts, and core value class awards each
morning over the loud speakers.
• The Therapeutic Support Program continues to adapt and provide a strong program that
supports the social-emotional and academic needs of our students. The program
welcomed Mrs. Stacie Burke as a half-time special education teacher.
• As members of the District-wide Chorus, our students in Grades 3-5 presented a spring
concert for parents.
• The Killam students demonstrated our TRRFCC core values by participating in Anton's
Coats for Kids Drive, donating Halloween Candy to the Troops,participating in the REF
Festival of Trees, and the Annual Killam Beautification Day.
• Killam School PTO supported a variety of student and family friendly events, ranging
from the Halloween Bash, to dine-out nights, to the Family Picnics.
• Killam continues with our monthly all school meetings to promote our TRRFCC
behavior expectations.
• The Building Leadership Team, comprised of teachers, specialists, and administration,
continued its work on implementing a tiered system of support to meet the social,
emotional, behavioral and academic needs of students. The team has developed a school-
wide system for student recognition focused on the core values, re-teaching and
139
reflection, and a systematic approach to Office Discipline Referrals (ODRs). The 2017
school year marked the beginning of a Tier I team, focusing on academics and a Tier II
team, focusing on the social-emotional needs of our students. The goal of these teams is
to continue to research and implement the best practices to support all students in
academics and behavior.
Teaching and Learning
• The Killam School welcomed Mrs. Laurie Truesdale, Therapeutic Support Program
Teacher, Ms. Lindsay McMahon, Second Grade Teacher, Ms. Sharon O'Keefe, Tutor,
Ms. Leigh Vaters, Tutor, Mrs. Tiffany Kopko, Interventionist, Mrs. Kelsey Donovan,
Para Educator, Mrs. Amy Albrecht, Para Educator, and Ms. Maureen Passatempo,
Cafeteria Staff, for the 2018-2019 school year.
• The Killam School welcomed the RISE Preschool to campus for the 2018-2019 school
year.
• Our TRRFCC (Trustworthiness, Respect, Responsibility, Fairness, Caring, and
Citizenship) Character Program continues to be strong in the Killam community. School-
wide expectations were developed and shared with the entire community based on the
Multi-Tiered Systems of Support(MTSS) model.
• Killam staff continues to recognize individual students who demonstrate our TRRFCC
core values. Classes are also recognized for collaboratively demonstrating these values
and are presented with"Golden Awards," including attendance awards through our
whole-school focus of getting our students to school. Every day counts at Killam!
• Teachers from Killam attended a variety of professional development opportunities
provided both by the district and by other organizations. These include PD in the area of
Writing, English Language Arts, Math, Science, Social Thinking, Open Circle, Science,
Behavior Management, Health and Wellness, Restorative Justice, and the Fine Arts.
• Writers' Workshop has been fully implemented with a focus on providing students
opportunities to experience the various genres including narrative, informational, opinion
and persuasive. This model places an emphasis on the process of writing from planning
and organizing, to drafting, revising and editing, and finally to publishing.
• The use of technology continuously increases with the addition of new laptops in the
media center and mini labs. The use of iPads were used to enhance student learning in
21st Century skills. Students have access to a variety of integrated instructional support
programs such as Lexia, Raz Kids, Think Central, and Typing Pal.
140
• Areas of our school underwent improvements. The wireless access points are in the final
phase of being updated, electrical work was completed, and new carpets and tiles were
installed in classrooms.
141
Wood End Elementary School
Annual Report for 2018
Joanne King, Principal
Wood End Elementary School is pleased to highlight the many accomplishments for 2018. With
a continued focus on student achievement, we collaborate with our families to instill our core
values, nurturing our students to be respectful, responsible, honest, engaged, and safe. We are
fortunate to have a welcoming and caring family community which takes an active role in
supporting our mission to create a safe and supportive learning environment for all students.
Family & Community Partnerships
Our annual Kindergarten Orientation provided an opportunity for 41 incoming students and their
families to visit Wood End in June and meet their classroom teachers and classmates. This is a
wonderful way to build new friendships before the summer vacation and start of the new school
year.
New and returning families attended the annual Family Field Night in September, taking part in a
variety of games and activities on the playground and enjoying pizza with friends and neighbors.
This is a great way to catch up with friends and gear up for the new school year.
The annual Grandparents' Day was a huge success as many of our Wood End grandparents took
part in the Read Across America activities and shared their favorite stories with our students.
This is one of Wood End's most treasured traditions!
The Leadership Team, with the tremendous support of teaching staff, successfully implemented a
mentoring program for students and a check-in check-out(CICO)program as part of our Tier 2
systems of support to better meet the individual needs of students requiring more targeted
interventions.
Our Student Council members hosted our annual all-school celebration to honor and recognize
our Veterans. Students and staff participated in our 4th annual "Hats Off to Vets" fundraiser,
donating $1 to wear a hat to school for the day. All proceeds were donated to the Home Base
Program to provide support to our soldiers and their families.
Student Council continues to lead our school in monthly spirit days and major fundraising events
to support local organizations including Reading Food Pantry, Anton's Coats for Kids, and the
Home Base Program.
Student Activities, Programs & Support
The Leadership Team, comprised of teachers, specialists, and administration, continued its work
on implementing a tiered system of support to meet the social, emotional, behavioral and
academic needs of students. In its fourth year of implementation, the team has developed a
school-wide system for student recognition focused on the core values, a systemic approach to
142
track office discipline referrals, and implementation of Tier 2 interventions including check-
in/check-out(CICO) and a mentoring program. This allows us to better meet the individual
needs of students requiring more targeted interventions.
Student Council members with the support of grade-level teacher leaders,plan and present
monthly all-school meetings focused on our core values. Each month, a different grade level
hosts a 30-minute presentation or activity to promote our values and teach expected behaviors.
Once again, Wood End students participated in the annual Special Olympics sending several
athletes to compete in various track and field events. The support of teachers, staff, students and
families is always inspiring. Our Olympic athletes continue to make us proud!
Two very dedicated and energetic parents, Kelly Mahoney & Lisa Zucchero, continued to lead
our morning BOKS program for students. This is our 4th year providing this amazing physical
fitness program for students in grades K-5. Students attend the program two days a week from
7:30-8:10 AM.
Teaching and Learning
We welcomed one new kindergarten classroom teacher, a new speech language pathologist, and
two new special education paraeducators to the Wood End team.
Wood End's building leadership team including Dr. King (principal), Lisa Breed (school
psychologist) and Jacquelyn Pelusi (special education teacher)presented at the 2018 National
PBIS Leadership Forum. Their poster presentation, A Roadmap to Building & Implementing
Successful Tier 2 Supports for Students highlighted the work this team has done to provide
supports to students in need. The presentation focused on two interventions Wood End has been
using successfully with a small number of students, MindUp and Check-In Check-Out(CICO).
MindUp is an evidence-based curriculum that teaches children to use specific mindfulness
strategies to improve self-regulation, relationships,problem-solving, and memory skills over the
course of a series of lessons. CICO is a group-based intervention designed to teach self-
management skills, so students can be more successful in school. The focus is on positive
interactions with students as teachers provide attention and feedback throughout a child's day.
When implemented effectively, research has demonstrated decreases in problem behaviors,
office discipline referrals, and referrals for special education services.
All classroom teachers, specialists and special education teachers have been trained in Open
Circle and are meeting with students each week to teach the skills needed to foster healthy social
and emotional relationships while building a caring community. We have an all-school lesson
time for Open Circle, every Wednesday 8:30-9:00 when the entire school community takes part
in classroom lessons.
Fifth grade students took advantage of a morning"coding club" hosted by Mrs. Commito
building their skills in math, technology, team work, and problem-solving. In addition, these
students used a variety of apps to program and control robots that were purchased through a
grant from REF.
143
Teachers participated in building-based and district-wide professional learning communities to
share best practices, review student work, and create common assessments in all content areas.
This professional collaboration is designed to enhance teaching and promote alignment to the
standards while improving instructional practices.
Wood End staff and administration took part in a variety of professional development
opportunities, workshops and conferences including Positive Behavioral Supports for Students
New England Conference, Writers Workshop, Readers Workshop, Down Syndrome Conference,
and Open Circle.
The school-wide schedule continues to provide one-hour uninterrupted blocks for reading,
writing and math in all grade levels K-5 to improve time on learning and provide the necessary
supports to meet the needs of all students. Math and literacy tutors provide small group support
in all grade levels, and the Reading Specialist works with each grade level during their reading
time to provide additional support to students identified below grade level expectations.
Writers Workshop training and implementation continues in each grade level with a focus on
providing students opportunities to experience the various genres of writing including narrative,
information, and opinion/persuasive in K-3 as well as literary essay in grades 4-5. This model
places an emphasis on the process of writing from planning and organizing, to drafting, revising
and editing, and finally to publishing rather than the product of writing.
144
Last Name First Name Location Description Job Class Description
Leave of Absence
Bedingfield Kelly Reading Memorial High School Math Teacher
Benjamin Am Pupil Services Team Chair
Blanchard David Reading Memorial High School Social Studies Teacher
Boutin Janelle Rise Preschool Preschool Teacher
Bowen Anne Birch Meadow Elementary School Special Education Para
Brett Nicole Joshua Eaton Elementary School School Ps cholo ist
Carr Julian School Central Office Technology Director
Chiappini Michele Reading Memorial High School Science Teacher
Conner Heather Reading Memorial High School Business Teacher
Cotter Susan Parker Middle School Learning Center Para
Deane Robert School Facilities Custodian
Derosier Adam Joshua Eaton Elementary School Grade 5 Teacher
Donahue Laurie Reading Memorial High School Spanish Teacher
Dougherty Jessica Parker Middle School Science Teacher
Dudley Paul School Facilities Custodian
Duval Samantha Coolidge Middle School Learning Center Para
Ellis Jessica Joshua Eaton Elementary School Grade 3 Teacher
Emmet-Conrad Jennifer Birch Meadow Elementary School Grade 5 Teacher
Ferguson Dianne Barrows Elementary School Cafe Manager
Forestell Deborah Barrows Elementary School Kindergarten Teacher
Frane -Passatem o Maureen School Food Services Cafe Worker
Gargano Jaclyn Barrows Elementary School Grade 3 Teacher
Gelineau Amy Coolidge Middle School French Teacher
Gianatassio Danielle Wood End Elementary School Grade 2 Teacher
Gilbert Susan Reading Memorial High School Art Teacher
Gilman Maureen Killam Elementary School Grade 1 Teacher
Hall Muriel Killam Elementary School Cafe Worker
Halloran Robert School Facilities Custodian
Harrington Aynsley Wood End Elementary School Special Education Teacher
Hartley Nicole Rise Preschool Special Education Program Para
Ippolito LisaMarie Joshua Eaton Elementary School Principal
James Brian Parker Middle School Grade 8 ELA Teacher
Jobst Lisa Parker Middle School Spanish & French Teacher
Joseph Maria Barrows Elementary School Reg Ed Tutor
Kiser Megan Parker Middle School English Teacher
Lascher Julie Coolidge Middle School ELA Teacher
Lavita Joseph School Facilities Custodian
145
Lebow Erica Coolidge Middle School English Teacher
Head Girls Winter/Spring Track
Madden Nancy Coach Non-Employee Coach
Mahoney Mark School Facilities Custodian
Mandell Rebecca Coolidge Middle School Social Studies Teachers
Manna Anne Joshua Eaton Elementary School Kindergarten Teacher
Matthews Alison Killam Elementary School Reading Specialist
McGlathery Kathleen Wood End Elementary School Reg Ed Tutor
McLaughlin Sandra Barrows Elementary School Reg Ed Para
McQuillin Kelley Joshua Eaton Elementary School Grade 1 Teacher
Miller Lizbeth Pupil Services Team Chair
Morley James Wood End Elementary School Custodian
Mulvey Barbara Wood End Elementary School Reg Ed Para
Murdock Joan Parker Middle School Learning Center Para
MurrayMaryann Coolidge Middle School Special Education Para
Musselman Auriana Parker Middle School Special Education Teacher
Nihan Marian Wood End Elementary School Grade 3 Teacher
Pe oraro Christen Killam Elementary School Grade 1 Teacher
Peterson Kimberly Parker Middle School Grade 8 Science Teacher
Poirier Courtney Wood End Elementary School Grade 4 Teacher
Re etto Charlene School Food Services Cafe Worker
Rice Catherine Killam Elementary School Grade 1 Teacher
Scouten Stacy Reading Memorial High School Secretary
Scribner Jennifer Birch Meadow Elementary School Grade 4 Teacher
Shevory William Reading Memorial High School Physics Teacher
Simon Maria Birch Meadow Elementary School Grade 1 Teacher
Solimini Rose Wood End Elementary School Reg Ed Para
Sweeney-White Ann Killam Elementary School Grade 5 Teacher
Tainsh Lindsey Wood End Elementary School Grade 4 Teacher
Tierney Kathleen Rise Preschool Special Education Program Para
Tomkins Tracey Birch Meadow Elementary School Learning Center Para
Extended Day Billing
Trin ale Vivian School Central Office Coordinator
Resignations/Reductions
A'emian Paula Birch Meadow Elementary School Special Education Para
An elou Catarina Joshua Eaton Elementary School Learning Center Para
Arthur Victoria Coolidge Middle School Long Term Sub French Teacher
Baer Andrea Parker Middle School Special Education Teacher
Bakr Adam Reading Memorial High School Principal
146
Balfe Nina Killam Elementary School Grade 2 Teacher
Benjamin Amy Pupil Services Team Chair
Blanchette Kyle Coach Non-Employee Freshman Boys Lacrosse Coach
Bonfanti Nicholas School Facilities Custodian
Boucher Caroline Joshua Eaton Elementary School Learning Center Para
Boudreau Heather Birch Meadow Elementary School Reg Ed Para
Boutiette Alison Coach Non-Employee Field Hockey Coach
Breton Karen School Food Services Cafe Worker
Brett Nicole Joshua Eaton Elementary School School Psychologist
Burke Sherry Pupil Services Team Chair
Burke Stacie Killam Elementary School Special Education Teacher
Caron Michael Coach Non-Employee Assistant Football Coach
Long Term Sub Special
Cass Raymond Killam Elementary School Education Para
Cerretani-Clarke Lynne Reading Memorial High School Secretary
Long Term Sub Special
Chawkate Michelle Killam Elementary School Education Para
Clark Joan Parker Middle School Reg Ed Para
Cook Donald Joshua Eaton Elementary School Grade 3 Teacher
Crosby Roberta. Rise Preschool Special Education Program Para
Day Alicia Birch Meadow Elementary School Special Education Teacher
Long Term Sub Grades 7-8 ELA
Demers Keith Coolidge Middle School Teacher
Douglas Karen Killam Elementary School Grade 2 Teacher
Doyle Joanna Birch Meadow Elementary School Special Education Para
Druid Alicia Coach Non-Employee Color Guard Coach
Dudley Paul School Facilities Custodian
Duval Samantha Coolidge Middle School Learning Center Para
Easler Bridget Birch Meadow Elementary School Reg Ed Tutor
Boys Lacrosse Coaching
Eighmey Thomas Coach Non-Employee Assistant
Ellis Jessica Joshua Eaton Elementary School Grade 3 Teacher
Ferraro Matthew Coach Non-Employee Assistant Wrestling Coach
Fini an Kelsey Coolidge Middle School Special Education Program Para
Fitzgerald Alba Parker Middle School Long Term Sub English Teacher
Flick Susanne Pupil Services Home/Hospital Tutor
Fodera Giuseppe Coach Non-Employee Football Coaching Assistant
Frentzel Gabriela Reading Memorial High School Spanish Teacher
Gilford Constance School Food Services Cafe Worker
Gualtieri Amy Joshua Eaton Elementary School Reg Ed Tutor
147
Haddadin Shirin Parker Middle School Long Term Sub Science Teacher
Hall Muriel School Food Services Caf6 Worker
Hammond Karen Wood End Elementary School Special Education Program Para
Hildreth Sarah School Central Office Extended Day Teacher
Hooper Susan Reading Memorial High School Social Worker
Hopkinson Alexandra Coach Non-Employee Volleyball Coaching Assistant
Horan Catherine Wood End Elementary School Special Education Teacher
Janger Mea han Reading Memorial High School Spanish Teacher
Jobst Lisa Parker Middle School Spanish & French Teacher
Kane Kylie Reading Memorial High School Assistant Cheerleading Coach
Kelly Tracy Rise Preschool Special Education Program Para
La lana Nicole Killam Elementary School Reg Ed Para
Leblanc Hannah Coach Non-Employee Assistant Girls Soccer Coach
Lipkin Michelle Joshua Eaton Elementary School School Psychologist
Martin Craig School Central Office Assistant Superintendent
Mccarron Daniel Reading Memorial High School Special Education Program Para
Miller Lizabeth Pupil Services Team Chair
Assistant Boys Winter& Spring
Moresco Emily Coach Non-Employee Track Coach
Moroso Taylor Parker Middle School Grade 6 ELA Teacher
Murdock Joan Parker Middle School Learning Center Para
Namvar Sobhan Reading Memorial High School Social Worker
Niedl Narcisa Reading Memorial High School Spanish Teacher
Norris Karin Joshua Eaton Elementary School Reg Ed Para
Padovani Steven Reading Memorial High School Special Education Teacher
Peraner Catherine Wood End Elementary School Special Education Para
Pindara Samantha Reading Memorial High School Guidance Counselor
Poirier Courtney Wood End Elementary School Grade 4 Teacher
Racamato Michelle Joshua Eaton Elementary School Learning Center Para
Reynolds Alvin Coach Non-Employee Assistant Football Coach
Rome Thi Pupil Services Team Chair
Ryan Brooke Killam Elementary School Reg Ed Tutor
Schultz Darcy Parker Middle School School Psychologist
Scribner Jennifer Birch Meadow Elementary School Grade 4 Teacher
Serrano Angela School Facilities Custodian
Long Term Sub Grade 7 Science
Sfikas Maria Parker Middle School Teacher
Solimini Rose Wood End Elementary School Reg Ed Para
148
Toombs Courtney Wood End Elementary School Long Term Sub Grade 4 Teacher
Trites Erline Killam Elementary School Special Education Program Para
Long Term Sub Reading
Vaters Leigh Killam Elementary School Specialist
Wagner Emily Coolidge Middle School Special Education Program Para
White Jennifer Coolidge Middle School Wellness Teacher
Wilson Carolyn Pupil Services Director of Pupil Services
Witt Sabrina Coolidge Middle School English Teacher
Transfer Within District
Amaral Daniel Reading Memorial High School English Teacher
Long Term Sub Grade 8 Science
As eirsson Krist'an Parker Middle School Teacher
Benoit Kelli Coolidge Middle School Special Education Program Para
Boucher Caroline Joshua Eaton Elementary School Learning Center Para
Burbank Rachael Birch Meadow Elementary School Special Education Program Para
Cheverie Janelle Killam Elementary School Long Term Sub Grade 5 Teacher
De ermond Andrea Coolidge Middle School Learning Center Para
Donovan Kelsey Killam Elementary School Special Education Program Para
Doyle Pam Joshua Eaton Elementary School Kindergarten Teacher
Duffley Sally School Food Services Caf6 Worker
Fisher Vanessa Reading Memorial High School Special Education Program Para
Frechette Lisa Wood End Elementary School Reg Ed Para
Golden Claire Joshua Eaton Elementary School Reg Ed Para
Harrington Aynsley Wood End Elementary School Special Education Teacher
Joyce Erin Rise Preschool Special Education Teacher
Lalicata Anita School Food Services Caf6 Worker
Leary Caitlin Killam Elementary School Reg Ed Para
Leonard Heather District STEM Curriculum Coordinator
MacDonou h Megan Coolidge Middle School Special Education Program Para
Mullen Kerry Joshua Eaton Elementary School Special Education Teacher
Munson Roisin Coolidge Middle School Special Education Teacher
Nadeau Pam Coolidge Middle School Special Education Program Para
Ockerbloom Alison Wood End Elementary School Kindergarten Teacher
Plona Leeann Coolidge Middle School Long Term Sub Grade 6 ELA
Teacher
Rameau Darkling School Food Services Caf6 Worker
Rao Sulekha Birch Meadow Elementary School Reg Ed Tutor
Russo Joanne School Food Services Caf6 Worker
149
Ryan Cynthia Wood End Elementary School Reg Ed Para
Savasta John Wood End Elementary School Learning Center Para
Sa man Karleen School Food Services School Nutrition Administrator
Shone Alanna Pupil Services Team Chair
Smith Leslie Wood End Elementary School Special Education Program Para
Strand Christian Birch Meadow Elementary School Special Education Program Para
Long Term Sub Special
Tarin Nathaniel Killam Elementary School Education Program Para
Turenne Judith Birch Meadow Elementary School Special Education Program Para
Tzovaras Dianne Killam Elementary School Special Education Program Para
Assistant Director of Pupil
Wright Allison Pupil Services Services
New Hires
Albrecht Amy Killam Elementary School Reg Ed Para
An elou Catarina Joshua Eaton Elementary School Learning Center Para
Arthur Victoria Coolidge Middle School Long Term Sub French Teacher
Bean Katel n School Central Office Extended Day Teacher Assistant
Beaulieu Jeffrey School Facilities Custodian
Girls Lacrosse Coaching
Benjamin Michelle Coach Non-Employee Assistant
Blanchard Rita Joshua Eaton Elementary School Instructional Interventionist
Bodin Jennifer Rise Preschool Special Education Program Para
Bosco Angelo Reading Memorial High School Spanish Teacher
Boynton Kathleen Reading Memorial High School Principal
Brussard Nicole School Central Office Extended Day Teacher Assistant
Burke Sherry Pupil Services Team Chair
Cannata Melissa Killam Elementary School Kindergarten Teacher
Carnes William Coach Non-Employee Assistant Football Coach
Carr Troy Reading Memorial High School School Psychologist
Cavaliero Sabrina Rise Preschool Special Education Program Para
Long Term Sub Special
Chawkate Michelle Killam Elementary School Education Para
Chuha David School Central Office Extended Day Teacher Assistant
Coffey Kylie Coolidge Middle School Special Education Program Para
Corman Leander Pupil Services Team Chair
Coursen Ashley School Central Office Extended Day Teacher Assistant
Girls Outdoor Assistant Track
Crosby Kate Reading Memorial High School Coach
Cru nate Liana Wood End Elementary School Special Education Program Para
Curley Theresa School Central Office Extended Day Teacher
150
Dang Jessie Joshua Eaton Elementary School Special Education Teacher
Darling Matthew Coolidge Middle School Tech Integration Specialist
Davies Dawn Coolidge Middle School Special Education Teacher
Long Term Sub Grades 7-8 ELA
Demers Keith Coolidge Middle School Teacher
DiPietro Stephen Reading Memorial High School Physical Education Teacher
Distaula Melanie Reading Memorial High School Math Teacher
Donofrio Hannah School Central Office Extended Day Teacher Assistant
Downer Kevin School Facilities Custodian
Downey Sarah Reading Memorial High School Special Education Teacher
Drab Rachael Joshua Eaton Elementary School Learning Center Para
Duffley Sally School Food Services Cafe Worker
Boys Lacrosse Coaching
Federico Fred Coach Non-Employee Assistant
Ferraro Matthew Coach Non-Employee Assistant Wrestling Coach
Franson Elizabeth Birch Meadow Elementary School Reg Ed Para
Frentzel Gabriela Reading Memorial High School Spanish Teacher
Gablinske Lauren Reading Memorial High School Guidance Counselor
Galante Derek Coach Non-Employee Baseball Coaching Assistant
Gallagher Kevin Coolidge Middle School Social Studies Teacher
Gauvin Janine Coolidge Middle School Special Education Program Para
Gibson Erin Birch Meadow Elementary School Special Education Teacher
Gilford Constance School Food Services Cafe Worker
Goldwyn Shana Pupil Services Team Chair
Gonthier Dawn Birch Meadow Elementary School Reg Ed Tutor
Guidi Robert Coach Non-Employee Football Coaching Assistant
Guthrie Jennifer Joshua Eaton Elementary School Instructional Interventionist
Haase Sarah Coach Non-Employee Volleyball Coaching Assistant
Haddadin Shirin Parker Middle School Long Term Sub Science Teacher
Haley Megan Coolidge Middle School Special Education Para
Hanania Andre School Central Office Extended Day Teacher Assistant
Harrington Sara Joshua Eaton Elementary School Reg Ed Para
Hartford Emily School Central Office Extended Day Teacher Assistant
Hartley Nicole Rise Preschool Special Education Program Para
Healey Danielle Coolidge Middle School Wellness Teacher
Hedges Taylor Coach Non-Employee Field Hockey Coach
Hicks I Lindsey Joshua Eaton Elementary School Speech Pathologist
Huggins Joseph School Central Office Extended Day Teacher Assistant
151
Jenkins Mariola Rise Preschool Special Education Program Para
Jenkins Lauren Joshua Eaton Elementary School Special Education Para
Kelley Allison Wood End Elementary School Special Education Program Para
Kelley Christine School Central Office Assistant Superintendent
Keough Sean Birch Meadow Elementary School Special Education Teacher
Khan A esha Reading Memorial High School Chemistry Teacher
Klinetob Megan Joshua Eaton Elementary School Reg Ed Para
Knudsen Katherine Reading Memorial High School Social Worker
Kopko Tiffany Killam Elementary School Instructional Interventionist
K es Chase School Central Office Extended Day Teacher Assistant
Lauria Donna School Central Office Extended Day Teacher
Leavitt Beth Barrows Elementary School Principal
Lewis Miriam Joshua Eaton Elementary School Grade 4 Teacher
Lewis Heather School Central Office Extended Day Teacher Assistant
Lorden Victoria Barrows Elementary School Long Term Sub Grade 3 Teacher
Maas Carolyn Joshua Eaton Elementary School School Psychologist
Mackin Mary School Central Office Extended Day Teacher
Malley Michele Coolidge Middle School Special Education Program Para
Marshall Hailey School Central Office Extended Day Teacher Assistant
McCabe Kristo her Parker Middle School Middle School Teacher
McMahon Lindsay Killam Elementary School Grade 2 Teacher
Mitro oulos Michelle Pupil Services BCBA
Moloney Margaret Coolidge Middle School Special Education Teacher
Moore Diane Coolidge Middle School Special Education Program Para
Mucha Arielle Birch Meadow Elementary School Grade 4 Teacher
Mulkern Hannah Parker Middle School Spanish Teacher
Namvar Sobhan Reading Memorial High School Social Worker
Neary Dev n School Central Office Extended Day Teacher Assistant
Norse Lindsey Coach Non-Employee Assistant Girls Soccer Coach
O'Brien Nancy Coach Non-Employee Field Hockey Coaching Assistant
O'Keefe Sharon Killam Elementary School Reg Ed Tutor
O'Neill Laurie Reading Memorial High School Spanish Teacher
Owens Diane Birch Meadow Elementary School Reg Ed Para
Ozanian Ann Parker Middle School School Psychologist
Redmond Paige Pupil Services Extended School Year Teacher
Rome Thi Pupil Services Team Chair
Roscoe Caroline School Central Office Extended Day Teacher Assistant
Rousseau Grace Reading Memorial High School Chemistry Teacher
152
Rubin Kaitlyn Wood End Elementary School Speech Language Pathologist
Schultz Darcy Parker Middle School School Psychologist
Schweitzer Christopher School Central Office School Business Assistant
Sheehan Patrick Coach Non-Employee Assistant Football Coach
Smith Craig School Central Office Computer Technician
Smith Kevin Birch Meadow Elementary School Reg Ed Tutor
Interim Director of Pupil
Stewart Sharon Pupil Services Services
Humanities Curriculum
Straker Allison School Central Office Coordinator
Swords Mairead School Central Office Extended Day Teacher Assistant
Tierney Erin Barrows Elementary School Special Education Program Para
Toombs Courtney Wood End Elementary School Long Term Sub Grade 4 Teacher
Truesdale Laurie Killam Elementary School Special Education Teacher
Turner Shannon Coolidge Middle School Grades 7-8 ELA Teacher
Long Term Sub Reading
Vaters Leigh Killam Elementary School Specialist
Waite Stephanie Reading Memorial High School Special Education Teacher
Assistant Boys Winter Track
Wallace William Coach Non-Employee Coach
Walsh Thomas Parker Middle School Non-Teacher Advisor
Retirements
Grant Marcia Coolidge Middle School Middle School Teacher
Guilbert Margaret Coolidge Middle School Special Education Teacher
Kwiatek Debra Birch Meadow Elementary School Elementary Teacher
Leahy Deborah Wood End Elementary School Speech Pathologist
Lynch Marueen Joshua Eaton Elementary School Elementary Teacher
Mayberry Jill Joshua Eaton Elementary School Speech Pathologist
153
Nort I heast .
Reponal Vocational
igh School,,, Distriv, ^
Serving
Chelsea
maiden
Melrose ����� .� tit, �..., �. . a
N. Reading
ReadingR.
o. rr
Revery el/P.
Saugus
Stoneham 2018,
Wakefield
Winchester
Winthrop
olu m
154
NORTHEAST METROPOLITAN REGIONAL VOCATIONAL SCHOOL DISTRICT
SCHOOL ADMINISTRATION
Sill iRrNjjE-
APE Nl,-I,)],R]7.-QIQR
David DiBarri
PRINCH."Al,I)EPurY DIRECTOR
........................---
Carla Scuzzarella
DISTRJCT SCHOOL COMMITTEE
SCHOOL COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN
--.-............
Deborah P'. Davis- Woburn
VICE CHAIRMAN
Judith M. Dyment -1 rth Reading
SECRETARY
Peter A. Rossetti,Jr. - Saugus
TREASURER
Larry Means - Stoneham
ASSOCIATE TREASURER
Vincent J. Carisella- Wakefield
COMMUTEE MEMBERS
Michael T. Wall - Chelsea Robert, S. McCarthy- Reading
Jeanne M. Feeley- Maiden Ronald J. Jannino - Revere,
Henry S. Hooton - Melrose Grant Leung- Winchester
Dawne H. Axinitstead - Winthrop
155
NORTHEAST METROPOLITAN REGIONAL VOCATIONAL
SC L DISTRICT
100 Hemlock Road - Wakefield, Massaelmsetts 01880-3597'
ANMJAL REPORT 2018
OUTSTANDING STUDENT AWARD
Mary Fong from Stoneham a student in the HVAC/R program was chosen as Northeast's noininee 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 April. At
the ceremony,2 Seniors and 57 Juniors were inducted. There are a total of 59 Technical Honor Society members
for the 2017-2018 school year.
*NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY
The Annual Induction Ceremony to the Northeast Chapter of the National Honor Society "Artisans"was held in
April. At the ceremony 17 Juniors and I I sophomores were inducted for the 2017-2018 school year bringing the
total membership to 28.
SCHOLARSHIP COMNUTTEE
The Northeast,Awards and Scholarship Conurittee and PAC board presented awards and scholarships to 86
deserving students at the,annual Senior Recognition Night. A total of$40,225.00 was presented to Northeast
students who will be working in their vocational fields,entering trade apprentice programs, or going oil to
one, two, or four-year programs at accredited colleges, universities, and trade schools. These awards and
scholarships provide the students opportunities to purchase tools and equipinent, and assist in offsetting the
expense of attending institutions of higher education.
SCHOOL WIDE PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPME NT 17-18
The goal of professional development is to.
c) Ensure that staff members are in compliance,with current regulations
enacted by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary
Education (DES )l.
o Guarantee that all staff members are lu-towledgeable of legislation
impacting the educational process of the commonwealth,
o, Make staff members aware of the most recent trends and strategies in
the district's mission of improving student achievement.
"rhe activities that met these goals during the 2017-2018 school year included.
156
First Day Back Professional Development Day JAugust28, 201Z7"':
L
Included training on observation and evaluation, school culture and team building through One School — One
Book activities and book discussion. In addition, training was held on, Special and General Education Laws,
Civil Rights, and Discipline.
Second Dax Rack Professional Development Day (A 28,IQ17
I
Included training trauma sensitive schools and SEL learning, Google Classroom implementation, and Five
YearNT-:ASC visitation planning and team construction.
New Teacher and Second and,Third Year Teacher Monthly Professional Development Me,etings
Teacher training included Creating a Classroom Culture, Goal Setting, Well-Structured lxssons, Meeting
Diverse Student Needs, AdJustment of Practiec, Sharing Conclusions with Students,Two-way
Communication, Student Motivation and Self-Assessmen t
St,udent.Sa,fetir 'oncerns November 13, 2017)
The school resource officer worked in conjunction with the Deans and the Administration to host Alice
training to the,entire staff and students,.
Professional Development Day—Meeting,Diverse Needs (JanuarJ 162017)
Teachers had the opportunity to choose from a variety of sessions centered on differentiation in both the shop
and academic settings during seven hours of professional development time,
2017 SUMMER TRANSITION PROGRAM:
The Summer Transition and Enrichment Ptograrn at Northeast Metropolitan Regional Vocational School is a two-wetk
program that ran from Monday July 9th until Friday July, l9th. This program was conducted as a transitional experience
for students entering grade 9 in August 2017, This year,due to a decrease in grant funding available the program was
conducted in 2-4 day sessions. This transition opportunity providing mathematics, English language arts, and career and,
technical introductory activities is funded by the federal Title 1, and Carl D. Perkins grants. The students are provided
with busing to and from school, and a mid-morning snack. These services, as well as the program itself are run at no cost
for the students or parents/guardians, The students are divided into ten groups of no more than, ten students. These
groups spend one half of the morning split between mathematics and English Language:Ails. The other half of the
morning is spent in a career and technical mini exploratory exercise,
r,undingfor this pro grain was provided through Title 1, and the Carl D. Perkins Occupational Education Act
I,"ederal grants,
157
SUPPORT SERVICES
The Northeast Student Services staff offers support and counseling to all students through individual and group
counseling, specialized workshops and presentations, health services, and mediation services. All Northeast
counselors are certified as School Adjustment Counselors and Guidance Counselors and are qualified to handle a
wide range of student issues. One School Adjustment Counselor is bilingual (Spanish-speaking).
The Career Counselor and Small Business Coordinator provide career awareness and career developi-nent services
to all students. The Career Counselor and School Adjustment Counselors provide specialized support,to students
enrolled in non-traditional vocational areas. Two School Nurses provide health services and a Peer Mediation
Coordinator implements a Peer Mediation Prograrn,
Support groups are established each year based on student needs. Support groups for pregnant and parenting teens,
social skills groups for freshmen,anger management,anxiety,and non-traditional support groups are examples,of
groups that have,been offered.
The School AdJ u stment,Counselors provide individual counseling support and crisis intervention to all students as
needed. They will provide support to homeless students,assessing their special needs and coordinating with the
Homeless Liaison (Administrator of Student Services). They also are responsible for developing and monitoring
Section 504 Acoon unodationPInns its conjunction with the Administratorof Student Services. School Adjustment.
Counselors collaborate with school personnel, family members,,doctors,psychiatrists, outside therapists, social
workers, Police,court personnel, and others.
The School Adjustment Counselor work to connect students and families with community based mental health
services as needed. Elliot Community Hurnan Services of Lynn serves as our crisis intervention linkage for
emergency mental health services in the community.Arbour Counseling Services in Woburn provides individual
therapy services at Northeast for students'referred by their School Adjustment Counselors.
The Bilingual, School Adjustment Counselor provides native -language support (Spanish) as needed to limited
English proficient students and families across all grades. She provides specific support to the English Language
Education program at Northeast.but supports other Northeast Latino students and families as Deeded. Translation
services (oral and written)and interpreting services are often required for parent communication throughout the
building,and as needed,this,counselor coordinates with all departments to assist. Referrals are made to a Spanish-
speaking Psychologist for testing for Special Education evaluation,
Career counseling and the college application process are emphasized by all school counselors.The 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 infortnation and
requirements;employability and entrepreneurial skills;interviewing skills;portfolios;and resume preparation, By
providing assessments to evaluate skills, interests,and work values, the Career Counselor works with the School
Adjustment Counselors to assist freshmen in their vocational selection process and upper class students with
linkagesto post-secondary education and employment opportunities.
158
The Career and adjustment t Counselors provide directed support to those students who are enrolled in career areas
that are considered non-traditional for their gender. Students have the opportunity to participate in support groups,
specialized presentations,and field trips that prepare them to understand the benefits of non-traditional choices,to
manage challenges in each occupation and to understand the required post-secondary linkages to achieve their
goals.
The School Nurses have coordinated support services for pregnant and parenting teens with outside providers
affiliated with local hospitals. In addition, they provide: support to students with chronic medical conditions,
coordinating with parents, doctors, nurses, etc. The Scbool, Nurses work, closely with the School Adjustment
Counselors to coordinate assistance when mental health needs arise. They also work closely with the Deans when
emergency medical evaluations are required.
The Peer Mediation Coordinator at Nortbeast operates a 'Peer Mediation Program where upper class students
undergo twelve hours of specialized training in, mediation skills and implement a program to work, out arising
conflicts between students. This is a very positive prevention program that contributes to the development of a
positive school climate as students learn to,come to their own agreements about how to solve conflict.
In addition to the support provided by the counseling staff, the Special Education Department offers a TEAM
meeting process that promotes monitoring of student progress and educational support. Each Special Education
student is assigned a Liaison who is a teacher in the Special Education Department who oversees, progress, in
relation to the Individual Education Program, communicating with parents, teachers, and counselors to help all
students achieve success.
The Northeast Mentoring Program is a freshmen transition,program that matches junior and senior mentors with
small groups of freshmen students. The Northeast Mentors present thel-Fresbmen Orientation day for freshmen
and then meet with their groups throughout the year to offer support and to deliver positive lessons that promote a
positive school climate. The mentors are trained in a leadership climate by the student services staff,developing a
core of approximately 90 peer leaders from I I" and 12ffi grades.
The After School Help Program is one of educational assistance provided to students having difficulty with one,or
more academic subjects by academic and vocational teachers. This free assistance is offered every Wednesday in
the library from 2:45-3-25. Water and snacks are provided as,well as free transportation home.
Special school-wide workshops and presentations are offered through the year for differe6tgroups of students.
Each year,all freshmen participate in group workshops focusing on identifying the,signs of depression and gender
equity issues. Large group assemblies and presentations have been offered focusing on goal setting and acts of
kindness, substance abuse, teen dating issues, tolerance,character building.
On a larger scale, the student service emphasis is on communication— communication with students and with
parents. Mid-term.progress reports are sent to parents each quarter and report cards are sent home four tunes per
year.E-mail cormnunication is welcomed and progress update meetings are held as needed, Parents and guardians
are asked to be involved with all class scheduling activities.
Post-graduate planning information is,shared through career assessment and planning activities,Additionally,the
Guidance department held a 1 F night for parents to offer free support width financial aid specialists. A college
planning night was, held for sophomore,junior and senior parents. Career Plans are sent home annually for parent
159
review. Language development is communicated for Limited-English proficient students through assessment data
and parent meetings. It is our goal to service all students equitably while attending specifically to those who have
specific life challenges.
GRANTS RECEIVED IN FY 2018:
Entitlement and Allocation Grants,
Tide H, Part A: Improving Educator Quality, 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
funds were utilized to support professional development in supervision.
Federal Special Education Entitlement, Fund Code: 240
'The purpose of this federal entitlement grant program is to supplement local and state funds in providing services
to students with disabilities.This funding source provides professional development for teachers of students with
disabilities in addition to providing extended school day and extended school year(summer)learning opportunities
for this targeted population,
Special, Education: Program Improvement Grant Fund Code: 274
The purpose of this state-funded grant program is to support,professional development activities that will
improve the quality of the services provided by the special education staff'. During school year 2016-17 the
focus of this funding was to research the positive placement data for students with disabilities over the past
three years. This data will be used to determine best practices in the career pathways to assist our graduates
from this targeted population secure high paying,highly skilled positions that are in high demand either after
high school or upon completion of post-secondary education.
Title 1, Part A, Fund Code: 305:
Title 1, the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, provides school district with funding to increase student
achievement.The district utilizes these funds to support extended school day and extended school year(summer)
learning opportunities for all.students, The incoming grade 9 summer orientation program is one of the primary
programs funded Title 1. Professional development, targeting increasing student achievement, is also funded
through Title I.
Perkins Act Allocation Grant Program—Secondary, Fund Code: 400
The Carl D. Perkins Occupational 'Education Act provides funding to assist school districts in improving
secondary career and technical programs. The district utilizes this funding source primarily to secure supplies,,
technology and equipment to guarantee that,state-of-the-art conditions are being replicated in each career pathway.
In FY2018 Perkins funding was used to support staff salaries and supplies in the newly instituted Robotics and
Automation Technology pathway. Perkins funding was also utilized to purchase a new van for the Dental
Assisting program. This van is a necessary expense to transport students and teachers to work-based internships
for the program.
Massacbusetts Capital Skills Grant:
This competitive grant brought in $500,000 to the district. These funds were used to purchase equipment and
160
supplies for the aforementioned Robotics and Automation technology program. Three robots, 3-1) printem,
laptop cornputers, are some of the larger purchases made possible by these funds, Supplies, such as tools and
software were also purchased with Capital Skills Funds.
Credit for Life Grant:
The $5,000 awarded to District through this grant was used to purchase supplies for the Business Technology
Career Pathway. The students in this department researched and developed presentations on the positive and
negative uses of credit that consumers need to know. Stations were Set LIP in the cafeteria and the,entire grade,
I I population of the school attended the presentations and visited each of the 10 stations where lessons were
demonstrated,
Cu inns Foundation Grant:
This grant allowed the district to conduct Saturday sessions for students form the district non-vocational high
schools. The pathways of. Automotive Technology, Cosmetology, Drafting and Design, Design and Visual,
Metal Fabrication and Plumbing were made available to this population. This program was conducted over
twelve weeks during February, March and April.
SUMMER PROGRAMS
Northeast Metro Tech Suminer School Program enjoyed another successful campaign since its inception in
1988. The Northeast Summer School serviced high school students, from,a nurnber of surrounding
communities, in six different acadernic 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 with its Basic Welding certification program. This program was not only
extremely successful,but gives both students and adults, from our surrounding communities, an opportunity to
explore and possible begin, new careers.
C5
The Northeast Summer School program launched an on-line credit recovery program in 2014, in 2018, with
the exception of a chemistry class with lab, all other courses,were run through our on-line credit recovery
program with our credit recovery specialist instructor, and meet all Massachusetts DFS E curriculum
frameworks.
161
CON11MUNITY EDUCATION PROGRAM
'The Community Education Program is a broad base collaborative community initiative assisting learners of all
kinds complete their education and achieve economic self-sufficiency through empowerment skills,healtl)care,
support services and meaningful employment.
Our vision is to deliver educational experience in a positive environment that will enable Northeast to reach new
heightstogether with our lifelong learning community.The focus,of the Community Education Program,is to offer
programs that meet the demands of our learning populations. In doing this, we give people the opportunity to
improve employment skills, fulfill lifelong goals, or enrich their lives with social activities. With the most
qualified instructors, and state of the art labs Northeast strives to maintain the highest standards of education.
Emphasis is on our new technology, upgrades such as brochure modification, new state of the art web site
construction, and the introduction of new programs in the medical field, new culinary classes, continuing,
education in all construction related courses,computer and CAD classes,photography and many other enrichment
courses,
2018 GRADUATES
The 2017-18 school year represents the Forty Sixth class to matriculate at Northeast Metropolitan Regional
Vocational School., Northeast graduated 287 students. Breakdown of graduates' status after graduation: is as
follows:
Attending 4-year college 92 Employed 95
Attending 2-year college 60 Entering Military Service 6
Apprentice school 6 Other 28
SPECIAL EDUCATION ENROLLMENT
Special Education enrollment for the 2017-18 schoolyear continued to represent approxiniatelyone quarter share,
of the total school enrollment with students. The 278 Special Education students represent: 23%, of the school
population. Additionally, 913 students were eligible for services under section 504 of the Rehabitation Act.
DISTRICT SCHOOL COMMITTEE ELECTION OF OFFICERS
At the Annual Organizational Meeting of the District, School Cominittee, on January 10, 2018 the following
members were elected as Officers of the Northeast District School Committee:
Chairman Deborah P. Davis, of Woburn
Vice Chairman Judith M. Dyment, of"North Reading
Secretary Peter A. Rossetti,Jr. of Saugus
Treasurer Larry Means,of Stoneham
Assoc. Treasurer Vincent J. Carisella, of Wakefield
162
CONCLUSION
As 'Nortbeast celebrates its forty-seventh year of career/technical excellence with its twelve
member communities, the district continues to offer students the finest career technical education
with which to build a successful career.
The District supports Curriculum,in both academic and carer technical classroot'ns with the latest,
equipment and technology, Evidence of our corriniftinent is reflected :In the State's grade 9 12
Dropout rate reports which indicates Northeast significantly lower at 0.6% versus the-State rate of
2.0%. Recent graduate follow up data indicates that 98%of students from the Class of 2017 were
positively placed in relevant post-secondary areas (Source,� MA DESE CFTC' Grad Follmv-up
"tar v,e)p INTERIM Results, No v 2017).
In fact,Northeast currendy employs 30 alumni at the school,including the Superintendent-Director.
Alumni's stories of success and their readiness and willingness to help their alrila, triater by
recruiting graduates for cooperative education experiences tences or ernployjnent is proof of their
dedication, to Northeast, Testimonials as to the success of our graduates continue to be receiNT(f
which makes us proud to have contributed in some sinall way to their accomplishments
The Northeast Class of 2017 achieved a 99.7% pass rate on the MCAS assessment,-,. Noilheast
continues to offer school day MCAS Enrichment Classes and after school enrichment prograiris for
those students in need' of additional preparation for the MCAS, Northeast also offers a well-
,attended Summer Transition Program for incoming freshmen and as a Summer Enrichment
faro rare for enrolled at risk students prepari ng for the MCAS state,assessi-flents.
The Career Center facilitates student access to,technology to further learn business*aspects of their
industries, develop career plans,, resurnes, and comprehensive portfolios, and prepare, college and
other post- secondary documents with the assistauce of our faculty including Career and
Ackitistment Counselors.
Northeast coritinues to provide students the finest career technical education, with wh:ich to build as
positive and productive post-secondary experience, be it college or career, offering experiences,
with the latest equipment and technology in both the career technical and academic programs,
Once again, I am proud to have represented Reading as a member ofthe Northeast Metropolitan
Regional Vocational District f chooll Committee. I will continue to serve as the guardian of''funds
allocated from the community to this educational institution and assist in and provide counsel to
the school in niaintaining the highest standards of educational excellence possible.
Respectfully submitted,
Robert S. McCarthy,Committee Member
Northeast School Comrnittee
Reading Representative
163
ENROLLMENT HISTORY
CfTY/TOWN S.Y. S.Y. S.Y. S.Y. S.Y. S.Y. S.Y. SlY, S.Y. SX, S.Y. S.Y.
DISTRICT 05-06 06-07 07-08 08.09 09-10 10-11 H.12 12-13 13-14 14-15 15-16 16-17
Chelsea 221 203 198 206 1190 195 199 204 199 208 218 239
Malden 215 238 234 222 216 215 198 194 189 170 165 150
Melrose 56 64 64 48 45 62 61 67 74 62 60 42
North Reading 28 4() 38 37 37 36 35 32 27' 34 37 33
Reading 19 26 26 26 28 23 16 19 17 17 16 20
Revere, 241 242 238 244 238 234 225 223 224 216 234 2,50
Saugus 146 137' 138 161 174 '191 204 200 190 199 187 215
Stoneham 34 46 44 46 52 54 59 69 73 71 62 59
Wakefield 59 65 61 84 91 98 79 70 68 64 63 68
Winchester 7 9 9 7 11 13 15 14 11 9 13 9
Winthrop 41 45 44 55 65 58 60 65 62 68 60 47
Woburn 99 917' 97 70 59 55 65 83 98 115, 114, 105
TOTALS: 1166 1212 1191 1206 1206 1234 1,216 1240 1212 1235 1229 1236
NON
DISTRICT 43 47 53 39 42 31 35 28 29 32 30 10
GRAND
TOTNL: 1209, 1259 1244 1,245 1248 1265 1251 1268 1261 1267 1259 1246
SPECIAL
NEEDS
ENROLLMENT 287 320 342 333 3,23 330 331 326 313 317 314 278
%SPECIAL
NEEDS
ENROLLMENT 249' 26% 27'% 279 26% 26% 26% 26% 26% 27% 239 23%
164
BOARDS, COMMITTEES AND COMMISSIONS
Original Year
Committee Name Title Address Year Term
Ends
Animal Control Appeals Committee
John Miles Member 532 West Street 2009 2019
Joyce Gould Associate 17 John Street 2015 2020
Tina Ohlson Chair 200 Forest Street 2008 2020
Richard Robbins Member 42 Dudley Street 2015 2021
Appointment Committee -Bylaw Committee
Alan E Foulds Chair 9 Ide Street BVoO BVoO
Andrew S Friedmann Member 27 Hillcrest Road BVoO BVoO
Jeffrey Struble Member 4 Tower Road BVoO BVoO
Appointment Committee -Finance Committee
Eric Burkhart Member 161 Belmont Street BVoO BVoO
Alan E Foulds Chair 9 Ide Street BVoO BVoO
Andrew S Friedmann Member 27 Hillcrest Road BVoO BVoO
Appointment Committee -Permanent Building
Alan E Foulds Chair 9 Ide Street BVoO BVoO
Andrew S Friedmann Member 27 Hillcrest Road BVoO BVoO
Gregory Stepler Member 77 Mineral Street BVoO BVoO
Audit Committee
Barry C Berman Member 54 Longview Road 2016 2019
Paul McNeice Member 20 Johanna Drive 2013 2019
Philip B Pacino Member 5 Washington Street 2003 2020
Elaine L Webb Member 309 Pearl Street 2017 2020
Nicholas Boivin Member 3 Estate Lane 2018 2021
Stephen Herrick Member 9 Dividence Road 2005 2021
Peter Lydecker Member 7 Beaver Road 2017 2021
John W Stempeck Member 65 Avalon Road 2018 2021
Board of Assessors
Brendan Zarechian Member 815 Main Street 2018 2019
Robert Marshall Member 108 Franklin Street 2014 2020
Michael Golden Member 12 Hampshire Road 2017 2021
Board of Cemetery Trustees
Caitlin Salmon Member 20 Pierce Street 2018 2019
Ronald Stortz Vice Chair 538 Summer Avenue 2004 2019
Janet Baronian Member 75 Mill Street 1999 2020
Carl McFadden Member 33 Wakefield Street 2018 2020
Virginia Blodgett Chair 99 Prescott Street 2017 2021
William C Brown Secretary 28 Martin Road 1996 2021
Board of Health
Heidi Pfeifer Associate 149 Forest Street 2018 2019
Eleanor Shonkoff Member 32 Harvard Street 2018 2019
Lara Romanowski Associate 804 Gazebo Circle 2018 2020
Kevin M Sexton Chair 20 Emerson Street 2017 2020
Emmy Dove Member 160 Charles Street 2018 2021
165
Original Year
Committee Name Title Address Year Term
Ends
Board of Library Trustees
Nina E Pennacchio Member 94 Eastway 2017 2020
Monette Dugas Verrier Member 30 Kurchian Lane 2018 2020
Alice W Collins Secretary 23 Mineral Street 2012 2021
Andrew W Grimes Member 103 Oak Street 2012 2021
John E Brzezenski Chair 60 Terrace Park 2013 2022
Cherrie M Dubois Vice Chair 9 Meadow Brook Lane 2007 2022
Board of Registrars
Krissandra Holmes Member 77 Redgate Lane 2006 2019
Harry M Simmons Member 17 Pine Ridge Road 2006 2020
Gloria R Hulse Member 107 Sanborn Lane 1992 2021
Laura A Gemme Administrator 16 Lowell Street BVoO BVoO
Bylaw Committee
Jeffrey Struble Chair 4 Tower Road 2013 2020
Stephen L Crook Member 137 Pleasant Street 2012 2021
Chris ODonoghue Vice Chair 173 Van Norden Road 2015 2021
Jayna Stafford Secretary 50 Longfellow Road 2018 2021
Celebration Trust Committee
Samantha Couture Member 56 Pearl Street 2017 2020
Nancy Potter-Desjardins Member 69 Hopkins Street 2018 2020
Everett Blodgett Chair 99 Prescott Street 2000 2021
Kurt Habel Member 832 Main Street 1999 2021
Climate Advisory Committee
Jeffrey Everson Associate 21 Pine Ridge Circle 2016 2019
Laurie Ann Sylvia Member 1176 Main Street 2011 2019
Celeste Kracke Member 6 Sweetser Avenue 2017 2020
Gina M Snyder Associate 11 Jadem Terrace 2006 2020
David Zeek Chair 163 Pearl Street 2015 2020
Ray Porter Secretary 529 Franklin Street 2007 2021
Commissioners of Trust Funds
Kevin Briere Associate 24 Greystone Way 2017 2019
John J Daly Vice Chair 163 Woburn Street 1995 2019
Andrew S Friedmann Member 27 Hillcrest Road 2018 2020
Elizabeth W Klepeis Chair 68 Tennyson Road 1976 2020
Neil L Cohen Member 73 Hillcrest Road 2007 2021
Endri Kume Administrator 16 Lowell Street BVoO BVoO
Community Planning and Development Commission
Anthony DArezzo Associate 130 John Street 2017 2019
Nicholas Safina Chair 221 South Street 2006 2019
John Weston Member 10 Winthrop Avenue 2007 2019
Pamela Adrian Member 87 Ash Street 2018 2020
David B Tuttle Member 27 Heather Drive 2006 2020
Rachel D Hitch Member 45 Bear Hill Road 2017 2021
166
Original Year
Committee Name Title Address Year Term
Ends
Conservation Commission
David Pinette Member 22 Colonial Drive 2016 2019
Annika Scanlon Vice Chair 3 Copeland Avenue 2006 2019
Robert J Hayes Member 739 Pearl Street 2017 2020
Rebecca Longley Chair 550 Summer Avenue 2014 2020
Michael Flynn Member 190 Green Street 2015 2021
Carl Saccone Member 68 Longfellow Road 2018 2021
Chuck Tirone Administrator 16 Lowell Street BVoO BVoO
Constables
Thomas Crowley Member 52 Hartshorn Street 2018 2019
Sally M Hoyt Member 221 West Street 1972 2020
Thomas H Freeman Member 59 Springvale Road 1993 2021
Council on Aging
Joan Coco Member 4 Fremont Street 2017 2019
Sally M Hoyt Associate 221 West Street 2004 2019
Deborah Small Member 177 Wakefield Street 2018 2019
Brian Snell Member 99 Walnut Street 2014 2019
Jayna Stafford Associate 50 Longfellow Road 2017 2019
Barbara Carney Associate 50 Bay State Road 2018 2020
John E Parsons Member 3 C Street 2014 2020
Pooja Parsons Associate 25 Landers Road 2015 2020
Sandra J Shaffer Member 239 Main Street 2014 2020
Jolyn M Ek Member 50 Bay State Road 2014 2021
Margaret Havey Member 23 Van Norden Road 2006 2021
Thomas Procopio Chair 424 South Street 2012 2021
Marilyn L Shapleigh Secretary 11 John Carver Road 2014 2021
Cultural Council
Nora Bucko Member 86 Van Norden Road 2015 2019
Megan Fidler-Carey Associate 64 Charles Street 2017 2020
Rosemary Lewis Secretary 273 Forest Street 2014 2020
Donna Schenkel Chair 368 Franklin Street 2013 2020
Nancy Ziemlak Member 15 Orchard Park Drive 2014 2020
Brian Kimerer Member 66 John Carver Road 2018 2021
Maryann Kozlowski Member 16 Weston Road 2014 2021
Jane Soloway Treasurer 214 Grove Street 2015 2021
Finance Committee
Mark Dockser Member 110 Beaver Road 2010 2019
Eric Burkhart Chair 161 Belmont Street 2016 2019
Paul McNeice Member 20 Johanna Drive 2012 2019
Anne DJ Landry Member 15 Center Avenue 2014 2020
Marc Moll Member 41 Richards Road 2014 2020
Paula J Perry Vice Chair 40 Beaver Road 2010 2020
Shawn Brandt Member 231 Franklin Street 2018 2021
Daniel Dewar Member 519 Main Street 2018 2021
Karen Gately Herrick Member 9 Dividence Road 2018 2021
167
Original Year
Committee Name Title Address Year Term
Ends
Historic District Commission
Everett Blodgett Chair 99 Prescott Street 2009 2019
Pino DOrazio Associate 14 Wilson Street 2018 2019
Greg Maganzini Member 168 West Street 2014 2019
Ilene Bornstein Member 80 Haystack Road 2009 2020
Amelia Freedman Associate 180 Grove Street 2018 2020
Virginia M Adams Member 59 Azalea Circle 2009 2021
Priscilla Poehler Member 43 Bancroft Avenue 2009 2021
Historical Commission
Jonathan Barnes Chair 41 Pratt Street 2014 2019
Amelia Freedman Associate 180 Grove Street 2018 2019
Jack Williams Treasurer 46 Summer Avenue 2015 2019
Virginia M Adams Associate 59 Azalea Circle 1978 2020
Samantha Couture Secretary 56 Pearl Street 2017 2020
Pino DOrazio Associate 14 Wilson Street 2018 2020
Ronald Weston Member 63 Blueberrry Lane 2014 2020
Sharlene Reynolds Santo Member 46 Wakefield Street 1999 2021
Housing Authority
Timothy J Kelley Vice Chair 84 Woburn Street 1996 2019
Richard Robbins Chair 42 Dudley Street 2015 2020
Diane Cohen Member 73 Hillcrest Road 2004 2021
Charles Adams Treasurer 13 Riverside Drive 2018 2022
Bea Perkins Treasurer 30 Frank D Tanner Drive 2018 2023
Julie M Johnston Administrator 22 Frank D Tanner Drive BVoO BVoO
Human Relations Advisory Committee
David Clark Member 15 Union Street 2016 2019
Heather McLean Secretary 20 Green Street 2015 2019
Kerri Riley Member 307 West Street 2018 2019
Elaine L Webb Member 309 Pearl Street 2017 2020
Kyung Yu Member 900 Main Street 2014 2020
Susan Gaskell Member 24 Davis Lane 2018 2021
Joshua Goldlust Chair 112 Spruce Road 2017 2021
Ice Arena Authority
Carl McFadden Member 33 Wakefield Street 2010 2020
Moderator
Alan E Foulds Chair 9 Ide Street 1996 2020
Mystic Valley Elder Services
Jane Burns Member 16 Lowell Street 2012 2018
Brian Snell Member 99 Walnut Street 2015 2018
Permanent Building Committee
Michael Bean Associate 14 Nichols Road 2015 2019
Bradford Congdon Chair 80 Prospect Street 2015 2019
John Coote Member 332 Summer Avenue 2015 2020
Nancy Twomey Member 23 California Road 2015 2020
Gregory Stepler Member 77 Mineral Street 2015 2021
Patrick Tompkins Member 83 King Street 2015 2021
168
Original Year
Committee Name Title Address Year Term
Ends
RCTV Board of Directors
Chris Cridler Member 39 Middlesex Avenue 2018 2019
Nicholas Boivin Member 3 Estate Lane 2017 2020
Stephen L Crook Member 137 Pleasant Street 2017 2021
Recreation Committee
Lori Russo Member 467 West Street 2016 2019
Michael Coltman Associate 18 Milton Road 2018 2019
Michael DiPietro Member 23 Sanborn Lane 2004 2019
Eric Gaffen Member 15 Hemlock Road 2018 2019
Adam Chase Member 18 Smith Avenue 1993 2020
Richard Hand Vice Chair 20 Meadow Brook Lane 2011 2020
Mary Ellen Killion Associate 33 Lewis Street 2018 2020
Chuck Robinson Member 81 Prospect Street 2018 2020
Patrick Sheeran Associate 132 Middlesex Avenue 2018 2020
Daniel Foley Chair 32 Grand Street 2014 2021
Catherine R Kaminer Associate 37 Warren Avenue 1988 2021
Emily Sisson Member 92 John Street 2015 2021
Regional School District Committee
Robert S McCarthy Member 39 Pine Ridge Road 2012 2020
Retirement Board
Joseph R Veno Chair 11 Rock Street 2007 2019
David A Gentile Member 757 Main Street 2017 2020
Carol B Roberts Member 432 Humphrey Street 2017 2020
Thomas A Clough Vice Chair 172 Summer Avenue 2010 2021
Sharon Angstrom Administrator 16 Lowell Street BVoO BVoO
Colleen Loughlin Administrator 16 Lowell Street BVoO BVoO
RMLD Board of Commissioners
Thomas B ORourke Member 50 Chequessett Road 2014 2020
David R Hennessy Chair 7 Pine Ridge Road 2015 2021
John W Stempeck Member 65 Avalon Road 2012 2021
Philip B Pacino Member 5 Washington Street 1987 2022
David A Talbot Vice Chair 75 Linden Street 2013 2022
RMLD Citizen Advisory Board
Neil L Cohen Member 73 Hillcrest Street 2017 2020
Rules Committee
John Breslin Precinct 3 99 Curtis Street 2017 2019
Anthony DArezzo Precinct 2 130 John Street 2016 2019
Russell T Graham Precinct 4 68 Maple Ridge Road 2017 2019
John A Lippitt Precinct 7 23 Mineral Street 2018 2019
Damien Morinon Precinct 8 64 Marla Lane 2017 2019
Sheila Mulroy Precinct 1 107 Eastway 2017 2019
Edward Ross Precinct 5 16 Kensington Avenue 2018 2019
Michele S Sanphy Precinct 6 75 Glenmere Circle 2017 2019
Alan E Foulds Chair 9 Ide Street 1996 BVoO
Laura A Gemme Administrator 16 Lowell Street BVoO BVoO
169
Original Year
Committee Name Title Address Year Term
Ends
School Committee
Nicholas Boivin Member 3 Estate Lane 2016 2019
Jeanne M Borawski Member 82 Johnson Woods Drive 2013 2020
Linda Snow Dockser Member 110 Beaver Road 2014 2020
Sherri Lynn VandenAkker Member 271 Summer Avenue 2017 2021
Elaine L Webb Vice Chair 309 Pearl Street 2014 2021
Chuck Robinson Chair 81 Prospect Street 2007 2022
Select Board
Barry C Berman Vice Chair 54 Longview Road 2015 2019
Daniel A Ensminger Member 6 Oakland Road 2013 2019
Andrew S Friedmann Chair 27 Hillcrest Road 2017 2020
John R Halsey Member 75 Beaver Road 2014 2020
Vanessa I Alvarado Member 7 Grand Street 2018 2021
Sick Bank Committee
James DEntremont Member 16 Lowell Street 2007 2019
Michael Fitzgerald Member 15 Union Street 2016 2019
Cindy McGrath Member 16 Lowell Street 2016 2019
Michael OHalloran Member 16 Lowell Street 2016 2019
George Stazzere Member 75 Newcrossing Road 2016 2019
Kevin M Brown Member 15 Union Street 2014 2020
Jane Kinsella Member 16 Lowell Street 2013 2020
Caitlin Saunders Member 16 Lowell Street 2015 2020
Daniel Rio Member 16 Lowell Street 2018 2021
Town Forest Committee
Nancy Docktor Associate 371 Pearl Street 2015 2019
Thomas S Gardiner Member 182 Franklin Street 2010 2019
William Sullivan Chair 44 Blueberry Lane 2013 2019
Michael Bourque Associate 76 John Street 2015 2020
Daniel Ford Associate 165 Salem Street 2015 2020
Farrukh Najmi Member 65 Marla Lane 2013 2020
Kurt Habel Member 832 Main Street 2013 2021
Richard Wetzler Member 9 Gould Street 2012 2021
Trails Committee
Kathleen Kelly Member 36 Grove Street 2018 2019
David S Williams Member 117 Oak Street 2008 2019
William O Finch Member 51 Mill Street 2010 2020
John E Parsons Associate 3 C Street 2008 2020
Benjamin Ream Associate 972 Main Street 2018 2020
Thomas S Gardiner Chair 182 Franklin Street 2008 2021
Jean Jacobs Member 73 Fairchild Drive 2012 2021
Veterans Memorial Trust Fund Committee
Kevin Bohmiller Administrator 16 Lowell Street BVoO BVoO
Elizabeth W Klepeis Member 68 Tennyson Road 1976 BVoO
170
Original Year
Committee Name Title Address Year Term
Ends
Zoning Board of Appeals
John A Jarema Vice Chair 797 Main Street 1978 2019
Kyle Tornow Associate 43 Vine Street 2018 2019
Damase Caouette Member 11 Field Pond Drive 2009 2020
Erik Hagstrom Member 53 Arcadia Avenue 2013 2020
Nick M Pernice Member 25 Highland Street 2016 2021
Robert E Redfern Member 54 Prospect Street 2001 2021
171