HomeMy WebLinkAbout2020-11-19 School Committee Minutes VE
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Board - Committee - commission - Council:
School Committee
Date: 2020-11-19 Time: 6:00 PM
Building: Location:
Address: Session: Open Session
Purpose: Open Session Version: Final
Attendees: Members - Present:
Chuck Robinson, John Parks, Tom Wise, Erin Gaffen, Carla Nazzaro and
Shawn Brandt
Members - Not Present:
Others Present:
Superintendent John Doherty, Assistant Superintendent Chris Kelley, CFO
Gail Dowd, Director of Student Services Jen Stys
Minutes Respectfully Submitted By: Linda Engelson on behalf of the Chair
Topics of Discussion:
I. Call to Order
Chair Robinson opened the meeting and announced the School Committee was meeting in a
virtual setting,fully remote via Microsoft Teams,practicing social distancing and in
accordance with the Governor's suspension of certain open meeting laws. The meeting was
being recorded and broadcast live on RCTV. The Chair called attendance:
Mr. Robinson—here Dr, Doherty—here
Mr. Parks-here Mrs. Dowd—here
Mr. Wise—here Mrs. Kelley- here
Mrs.Nazzaro—here Dr. Stys—here
Mrs. Gaffen -here
Mr. Brandt—here
Mr. Robinson called open session order at 6:00 p.m. and reviewed the agenda.
Mr.Wise moved seconded by Mr.Brandt,to enter into executive session to discuss
strategy with resvect to collective bargaining and non-represented personnel and to
return to open session at appro ' telt'7.00 p.m. The roll call vote carried 6-0.
Mr. Robinson Mrs.Gaffen.Mr.Parks. Mrs.Nazzaro,Mr.Wise and Mr. Brandt.
The open session meeting recessed at 6:01 p.m.
Chair Robinson called the open session back to order at 7:16 p.m.
A. Public Input
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Mr. Robinson explained that for public comment, please use the live chat feature on the
Microsoft Teams link which will be posted on the Superintendent's Blog and sent out via
Connect Ed prior to the meeting.
In lieu of the live chat,you may send an email in advance of the meeting to
schooleommittee@readine kl2 ma us This email will be included in the next packet.
B. Old Business
Fall Reopening Update
Soecial Education Update
Dr. Stys reported on the recent SEPAC meeting which featured representatives from
BSEA who discussed different ways to partner during the IEP process,mediations and
facilitated meetings. The SEPAC will meet again on November 241'and December V.
Operations Update
Mrs. Dowd reported on the food distribution program saying we have delivered over 60K
meals to families which consists of 7 meals/child each week. The district is applying for
2 new grants to help fund the program. The Senate and House budgets were released and
there is an increase in the METCO budget. Mrs. Dowd and Mrs. Kelley continue to
monitor new grants that become available.
At the recent Select Board meeting the workings of the Command Structure was
discussed. Mrs. Dowd stressed that the collaboration between town and schools has been
tremendous assuring that everyone is on the same page. She continues to monitor the
CARES Act funding and looking for additional sources of funding.
Mrs. Dowd shared that she will be coming back to the School Committee regarding the
SEEM transportation contract for approval. The goal as she explained in the spring is
continuity of service.
The Town has initiated a"Mask Up"campaign promoting safety.
Health & Safety
Dr. Doherty began by saying that we are focusing on a balance of health, safety and
learning. He held a staff safety forum in an effort to continue to inform staff on health
and safety protocols.
Director of Nursing Mary Giuliana shared that the protocols we have in place have
worked. She went on to review the student/staff positive cases.
Mr. Wise read a public comment from Donald Gourley,26 Waverly Road:
"What is the quantitative criteria threshold to return to full-time in class education (and
end of remote/hybrid)? This questions comes because the emphasis on "cases"instead of
"deaths"is twisting public perceptions. From the DOD databases we have infection
survival rates at (1) 99.8%for all ages (2) 99.5%for those ages 50-70(3)94.6%jor
those older than 70, and(4)99.999%for those under 20 years of age. COVID is 2 to 3
times more lethal than the Flu, but we are still operating with a Spring 2020 mindset
where we conflate COVID with the Bubonic Plague. CDC recommends full time in
person learningfor these reasons, which aligns with DOD databases. For these reasons,
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I'm asking what the quantitative triggers are for a full return to in class education? Cases
aren't relevant, only hospitalization/death."
Dr. Doherty said decisions are based on many factors.The 6 ft. distancing guideline will
not change,and we will not be going back full in person.
Discussion continued on determination when to close schools and protocols for persons
exposed to COVID-19. Dr. Doherty said that we review the current DPH metrics and
work closely with the BOH and Director of Nurses when making decisions on the closing
of school. Mrs. Giuliana reviewed the definition of close contact and procedures for
testing and quarantining. She reviewed the cases over the past two weeks and said cases
are rising. Reading is currently yellow, and this is consistent with our surrounding
communities. Mrs.Giuliana shared that we work in collaboration with the public health
nurses on contact tracing, providing guidance to individuals/families that have been in
close contact with someone that has tested positive. As mentioned at a previous meeting,
phase one of the Binax Antigen testing program has begun. As you recall we opted not to
participate but are watching this program as it moves forward. With Thanksgiving upon
us the Governor has issued a state travel order asking that families do not attend large
gatherings.
Dr. Doherty shared that he is encouraging all staff to unplug for the holiday weekend.
Everyone has been working incredibly hard and needs this break.
Mr. Parks and Mr. Robinson thanked Mrs.Giuliana for her hard work.
Dr. Doherty shared information on the status of winter sports. The MIAA will be taking
the final vote on the sports and modifications that will be playing this winter. The
Middlesex League Superintendents and Athletic Directors set December 10 as the first
day of tryouts and practices with the season beginning after the first of the year. The
schedule will be similar to the fall schedule with a shorter season and no spectators.
Tomorrow is the November Conference Day for elementary and high school families and
a full professional development day at the middle school level. We have moved the
January in-service day from January 19ih to January 15".
The Committee asked clarifying questions about staffing.
Mr. Wise read a public comment from Donald Gourley.26 Waverly Road:
"Seems logical RPS would know if a Reading employee died or was hospitalized.... ..
Mrs. Giuliana said we can track students but not all staff live in Reading. Dr. Doherty
added that there are privacy concerns as well.
Mr. Wise read a public comment from Samantha Weld:
'When the teachers unplug over Thanksgiving, will the students be able to as well? Will
homework be assigned at the high school and middle school?I think EVERYONE needs
to unplug and not be on screens. Thanks"
Mr. Wise read a public comment from Donald Gourley,26 Waverly Road:
"Is RPS open to raising pay in order to fill positions? The cost to individual families is
logically and likely greater than the cost of raising pay(even if temporarily)?
There are skillset out there that are not available in greater quantities at any price,
however no one believes that the skillsets related to Public Education cannot be found at
market rates. Listening to the last two commentons, it seems a lot a pain exists just
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because the offer isn't being found attactive enough to fill the positions. How much extra
salary are we talking? Really, taxpayers would likely bear this burden easily to aleviate
the pain that understaffing causes.
Due to COVID, the market price of this labor seems to have risen."
Mrs. Dowd said this is a matter of collective bargaining.
C. New Business
Curriculum Update
Assistant Superintendent Chris Kelley along with Curriculum Coordinators Heather
Leonard and Allison Straker provided a curriculum update including the work happening
around a robust remote platform.
Mrs. Kelley thanked the principals, department heads, curriculum coordinators, data
coach and teachers for the outstanding work being done in the district.
Mrs. Kelley reviewed how our work has changed. Professional development is now done
in asynchronous and synchronous models. We have created a Google site that houses all
recorded PD for staff support. Mrs. Leonard reviewed the adjustments in the area of
curriculum and instruction saying the State determines the frameworks. We have
adjusted pacing guides with priority standards with identified areas that may require
additional supports. We are also looking at what technology tools to support instruction.
Mrs. Straker reviewed the adjustments in the area of data and assessment saying that we
are prioritizing formative and frequent monitoring utilizing tools to meet individual needs
and inform across content areas. We have a formative literacy assessment in place,have
made adjustments to the assessment calendar and have protocols in place to support
remote assessment.
Mrs. Leonard reviewed the K—6 Math Curriculum. She shared that the current core
curriculum tool Math in Focus has created a new copyright and we no longer have access
to virtual tools. This has given us an opportunity to explore new curriculum options. The
curriculum and content for math remains the same—the curriculum tools are the focus of
the pilot. The timeline was reviewed with a decision,procurement and PD/training
happening during the April—June timeframe. We will be looking for a program that will
be fiscally sustainable.
Mrs. Straker reviewed the K—5 Social Studies Curticulum. She shared the vision for
Social Studies in the elementary schools. She said we are building foundations and
building a writing curriculum that meets the needs of all Reading students. Students will
work collaboratively,connect ideas across content and apply learning. Teachers will
have access to a variety of resources, facilitate conversations and coach inquiry.
Instruction will be hands-on; project and inquiry based and look like a workshop. We
will use a variety of resources that will be engaging and culturally relevant.
Mrs. Kelley shared the Equity work being done in the district saying that the middle
school staff will be participating in Equity and UDL training during the in-service day
tomorrow. We are committed to an Equity Institute with student voice and choice. The
Learning&Teaching team are in the process of planning the January 15th in-service day.
The committee asked clarifying questions.
Mr. Wise read a public comment from Donald Gourley, 26 Waverly Road:
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"Stolen"?I hope children aren't being exposed to this. Individual idealogy should be
limited to a teachers OWN children, not others. Tax payer have given no mandate for
this, nor voted for this. Is this actually entering the classroom and who approved this?
Mr. Doherty?Ifnot him, who.
Can RPS return to the primary use of Math text books and workbooks? This makes it
easier for parents to track student progress at home. Text books and workbooks allows
progress to be tracked in a traditional manner. New, it seems one needs 2 or 3 passwords
to view online only curriculum content that cost too much to print out and put in binders.
Math at this level hasn't changed yet the tried and true teaching methods seem to be
continually sacrificed for the "latest fad"'Just because a new piece of tech exists doesn't
mean its better or has to be used. Text books are sustainable, mine was used for years by
many students.
Mrs. Leonard said a lot has changed and we are using due diligence and applying our
knowledge.
Is Cornel West's ideology being presented to students?If yes, are opposite ideologies
being presented equally? Who authorized this curriculum change?
Glad to hear someone say "Baby won't be thrown out with bath water"
Mrs. Kelley said the state has updated the frameworks and we are being
proactive/reactive to changes. Mrs. Leonard added that we are using what is
developmentally/mentally appropriate. Publishers are no longer producing textbooks.
D. Old Business
FY21 Budget
Mrs. Dowd reviewed the memorandum saying she is asking the School Committee to
vote the revised FY21 School Department as determined by Town Meeting.
Mr.Wise moved seconded by Mr.Parks,to aoarove the adjusted November Town
Meeting approved FY21 budget of$48,442,662.The roll call vote carried 6—0. Mr.
Parks Mrs.Gaffen Mrs.Nazzaro,Mr.Wise,Mr. Brandt and Mr.Robinson.
Student Report(out of order)
Mr. Robinson welcomed student representative Bridget Parks. Ms. Parks reported on the
following: Remote and hybrid learning,the use of breakout rooms,the upcoming virtual
winter choral and band events and a virtual drama event. Spirit week is next week and
the deadline is approaching for senior class officer nominations. Thejuniors and
freshman held a bikeathon in November and the seniors are putting together a collage in
lieu of the annual class picture on the football field.
District and Superintendent's Goals Introduction
Dr. Doherty thanked everyone for the feedback which has been incorporated into the
plan. He reviewed the changes that have been made. In strategic Objective A he added
the caveat that deadlines may need to be extended because we do not know what next
year will look like. Under standardized testing he said this will be a baseline year and
added interim outcomes under the District Crisis Support Teamwork. Under Goal 41 —
Professional Practices the Human Resources director Entry Plan timeline has been
adjusted to be more realistic and under Goal 42 the hiring of a Special Education Literacy
Coach will be advocated in the FY22 budget process. This is a critical piece to the
success of this goal.The Vision of the Graduate date will be changed to April.
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Mr Wise moved seconded by Mr.Brandt to accept the 2020-2023 District
Improvement Plan as amended by Dr.Doherty and 2020-2021 Superintendent's
Educator Plan as amended by Dr.Doherty.
The committee asked clarifying questions.
The roll call vote carried 6—0.Mr.Parks Mrs Gaffen,Mrs.Nazzaro,Mr.Wise,
Mr. Brandt and Mr.Robinson.
First Reading of Policy JI—Student Riehts and Responsibilities
Dr. Doherty worked with Attorney Brunt and did some research on this policy and has
added#4 to the proposed policy. I-le then reviewed Policy IMB which is a MASC
revision and added a statement in the Bullying Prevention Plan protecting freedom of
expression.
Mr.Wise moved seconded by Mr.Brandt,to accept the First Readine of Policy JI—
Student Riehts and Responsibilities
Mr. Wise began the first reading.
Mr.Parks moved seconded by Mrs.Nazzaro to suspend further reading of Policv
JI The roll call vote carried 6—0. Mr.Parks,Mrs.Gaffen,Mrs.Nazzaro,Mr.
Wise,Mr.Brandt and Mr.Robinson.
Mr. Wise moved seconded by Mrs. Nazzaro,to accept the First Readine Policy IMB
—Teaching about Controversial Issues/Controversial Speakers.
Mr. Wise began the first reading.
Mr. Parks moved seconded by Mrs. Nazzaro to suspend further reading of Policy
JI The roll call vote carried 6—0.Mr. Parks,Mrs.Gaffen,Mrs.Nazzaro,Mr.
Wise,Mr. Brandt and Mr.Robinson.
Discussion on Policy JI began with Mr. Wise suggesting the addition of legal references
regarding dress and pregnant student. Mrs.Gaffen asked about the process for students
peaceably assembling on school grounds. Dr. Doherty said the group would have to get
permission. Mr. Brandt asked about student freedom. Dr. Doherty said he used the
language of the law to clarify.
Mrs.Nazzaro thanked Dr. Doherty for his work on this policy. She feels staff need to be
offered education and professional development to roll out conversations and topics that
do not inhibit the rights of students. Dr. Doherty said how the topic is presented is key
and work is being done as part of the equity discussions.
Discussion on Policy IMB began with Mrs. Gaffen asking how controversial is defined.
Dr. Doherty shared that the name is from MASC. Mrs.Gaffen has an issue with the
entire policy. Discussion on the term controversial continued and it was determined to
continue the first reading of Policy IMB at the next meeting. It was suggested that two
members(Mrs.Nazzaro &Mr. Brandt)meet with Dr. Doherty to work on the proposed
revisions.
Vote on the first reading Policy JI:
The roll call vote carried 6—0. Mr. Parks,Mrs.Gaffen,Mrs.Nazzaro,Mr.Wise,
Mr.Brandt and Mr.Robinson.
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Vote of first reading of Policy IMD:
Mr.Wise moved seconded by Mr.Parks to suspend the first reading of Policy IMD
until a new version is developed by Mrs Nazzaro Mr. Brandt and Dr.Doherty.The
roll call vote carried 6—0 Mr.Parks Mrs Gaffen,Mn.Nazzaro,Mr.Wise,Mr.
Brandt and Mr. Robinson.
E. Consent Agenda
- Approval of Minutes(11.5.20)
Mr. Wise moved,seconded by Mrs.Nazzaro,to approve the consent agenda.
The motion carried 6-0 Mr. Parks Mrs Gaffen Mrs.Nazzaro,Mr.Wise,Mr.
Brandt and Mr. Robinson
F. Reports
Director of Student Services
No report
Assistant Superintendent
No report
Chief Financial Officer
No report
Superintendent
No report
Liaison
Mr. Parks reported on the recent Recreation Committee meeting. The Birch meadow
Master Plan was discussed. He added that he is amazed at what the RMHS Guidance
staff is doing regarding senior activities.
Mr.Nazzaro reported on the RCTV Board annual membership meeting saying the group
has added a new board member. They also discussed the high school course offerings.
Mr. Robinson shared that the next meeting will be on Monday November 23`d to discuss
the Superintendent Search process and the committee will be posted for the December 7°i
Permanent Building Committee meeting.
G. Public Comment
None
1. Routine Matters
a. Bills and Payroll (A)
Warrant 52119 11.05.20 $226,281.09
Warrant 52120 11.10.20 $247,266.74
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Warrant P2107 10.02.20 $1,641,588.96
Warrant P210810.16.20 $1,643,737.34
Warrant P2109 10.30.20 $1,663,L75.21
Warrant P2110 11.13.20 $1,659,964.82
b. Calendar
2. Information/Correspondence
3. Future Business
4. Adiournment
Adiourn
Mr.Parks moved,seconded by Mrs.Gaffen,to adjourn. The roll call vote carried
6-0. Mr.Parks,Mrs.Gaffen,Mrs.Nazzaro,Mr.Wise,Mr.Brandt and Mr.
Robinson.
The meeting adjourned at 10:40 p.m.
NOTE: The minutes reflect the order as stated in the posted meeting agenda not the order
they occurred during the meeting.
Link to meeting video: https�//www.youtube.com/watch9v=blvzUKNTuLE
JI F. Do erty, d.D.
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