HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024-04-01 School Committee PacketOpen Session 7:00p.m.
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Reading Public Schools
School Committee Meeting Packet
April 4, 2024
Town of Reading
Meeting Posting with Agenda
This Agenda has been prepared in advance and represents a listing of topics that the chair reasonably anticipates will be discussed
at the meeting. However the agenda does not necessarily include all matters which may be taken up at this meeting.
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2018-07-16 LAG Board - Committee - Commission - Council:
School Committee
Date: 2024-04-04 Time: 7:00 PM
Building: Location:
Address: Agenda:
Purpose: Open Session
Meeting Called By: Thomas Wise, Chair
Notices and agendas are to be posted 48 hours in advance of the meetings excluding
Saturdays, Sundays and Legal Holidays. Please keep in mind the Town Clerk’s hours of
operation and make necessary arrangements to be sure your posting is made in an adequate
amount of time. A listing of topics that the chair reasonably anticipates will be discussed at
the meeting must be on the agenda.
All Meeting Postings must be submitted in typed format; handwritten notices will not be accepted.
Topics of Discussion:
7:00 p.m. A. Call to Order
7:00 p.m. B. Public Comment
Focus on Excellence – Spotlight on Class of 2024 Boston Resident
Students
Consent Agenda
1. Minutes (03-14-2024)
2. Parker Canobie Lake Park Field Trip Request
3. RMHS Senior Prom Field Trip Request
Accounts Payable Warrant Reports
1. 03-14-2024
2. 03-21-2024
3. 03-28-2024
Payroll Warrant Reports
1. 03-01-2024
2. 03-15-2024
3. 03-29-2024
Reports
1. Student
2. Director of Finance & Operations
3. Assistant Superintendent for Teaching & Learning
4. Superintendent
5. Liaison/Sub-Committee
7:30 p.m. E. New Business
1. Friends of Reading METCO Discussion
2. State of the Reading METCO Program
Town of Reading
Meeting Posting with Agenda
This Agenda has been prepared in advance and represents a listing of topics that the chair reasonably anticipates will be discussed
at the meeting. However the agenda does not necessarily include all matters which may be taken up at this meeting.
Page | 2
3. Reading Children’s Cabinet Discussion: Gathering Feedback on
Resources to Enable Success
4. RMHS High School Scheduling Pilot Update
5. Math Pathways Update
6. FY25 Kindergarten Enrollment Update
7. Approve Last Day of School for SY23-24 (A)
8. Appointments to JLMC’s (A)
9:00 p.m. D. Old Business
1. Strategic Fee Review & Votes
a. Athletics
b. Facilities Rental
F. Information / Correspondence
1. “RE: Grand piano 03/27/2024” – Allyson Congdon
9:15 p.m. Adjourn
Join Zoom Meeting
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Consent Agenda
Reading Public Schools
School Committee Meeting Packet
April 4, 2024
Town of Reading
Meeting Minutes
Page | 1
2016-09-22 LAG Board - Committee - Commission - Council:
School Committee
Date: 2024-03-14 Time: 7:00 PM
Building: School - Memorial High Location: School Library
Address: 62 Oakland Road Session: Open Session
Purpose: Open Session Version: Draft
Attendees: Members - Present:
Tom Wise, Sarah McLaughlin, Shawn Brandt, Erin Gaffen, Charles Robinson
and Carla Nazzaro
Members - Not Present:
Others Present:
Assistant Superintendent of Learning & Teaching Dr. Sarah Hardy, Director
of Finance and Operations Dr. Derek Pinto and Superintendent Dr. Thomas
Milaschewski
Minutes Respectfully Submitted By: Olivia Lejeune on behalf of the chairperson.
Topics of Discussion:
A. Call to Order – Mr. Wise called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. to review the agenda.
E. New Business
1. Vote to Approve 07-01-2024 through 06-30-2027 Reading Paraeducators Association
Contract
Mr. Wise briefly reviewed the changes made to the contract. One of the key changes was a
significant adjustment to the salary scale. The adjustment will happen over the course of
three years with the biggest step in the first year. The schedule has also been simplified to
have three lanes. Other changes to the contract include: the addition of Juneteenth as a
holiday, appropriate pay the day before Thanksgiving instead of having to rework the hours,
adjustment of key terms, and as a result of the contract, we will add a few Joint Labor
Management Committees. The restructuring of the pay scale has allowed for stipends to be
put in place for safety care de-escalation.
Mrs. Gaffen motioned to approve the 07-01-2024 through 06-30-2027 Reading
Paraeducators Association Contract, seconded by Mr. Robinson.
Roll Call Vote – Mr. Robinson – yes, Mrs. Nazzaro – yes, Mr. Brandt – yes, Mrs. Gaffen – yes,
Ms. McLaughlin – yes, Mr. Kraunelis (Town Manager) – yes, Mr. Wise – yes. The vote passed
7-0.
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2. Discussion on Potentially Co-Sponsoring the Right to Read Film Viewing with the SEPAC
in May 2024
SEPAC applied for and received a grant from the Reading Cultural Council to arrange a
showing of a documentary film called The Right to Read. This documentary is focused on
dyslexia, but also the overall need for the student population to be able to read. SEPAC is
looking for assistance in co-sponsoring and promoting the event. They are targeting a
September or October showing and looking at the potential for bringing in experts in the
field to speak as well. The committee discussed the position of co-sponsoring events and
setting a precedent of picking and choosing what to sponsor. This showing is meant to help
get the conversation started in the community.
Mrs. Gaffen motioned for the School Committee to co-sponsor The Right to Read film
viewing as an event, seconded by Mrs. Nazzaro. The vote passed 6-0.
B. Public Comment
Public Comment – None
Focus on Excellence
1. Coolidge and Parker Math Teams – Dr. Milaschewski introduced the Coolidge and
Parker math teams who were recognized on Pi Day for their accomplishments so far this
year. Both teams have a high level of participation and have shown excellence in their
performance. Principal Marchant, Principal Rubino, Ms. Jennifer Kane, Ms. Caitlin Carter
and the Coolidge and Parker math team students introduced themselves and shared
some of their success this season. The students shared some challenging math problems
with the committee to solve.
Consent Agenda
1. Minutes (02-29-2024)
2. Robotics Competition Field Trip Request
3. Nature’s Classroom Field Trip Request
4. Varsity Boys Basketball Donation
5. Acceptance of Jae S. Lim Foundation Award
6. Acceptance of FY24 Evaluate and Select High-Quality Instructional
Materials (HQIM) Network Support Grant Award
Accounts Payable Warrant Reports
1. 02-29-2024
2. 03-07-2024
Mrs. Gaffen motioned to approve the consent agenda, seconded by Mr. Brandt. The
vote passed 6-0.
Reports
1. Student – Graham Goodwin provided the following updates:
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a. The Annual College Fair had over a hundred colleges in attendance and was
a great opportunity for juniors and seniors to meet colleges in the area.
Thank you to the food services department for catering the event.
b. The Science Team came in eighth place out of 60 teams in the
Massachusetts Science Olympiad Tournament.
c. The drama club participated in the METG Drama Festival making it to the
semifinals.
d. Some upcoming events include spring athletics and the Robotics team
competition.
e. March 21st is National Down Syndrome Day and the Best Buddies Program
is raising awareness by holding a fundraiser at Fuddruckers in which all
proceeds go back to Best Buddies.
f. Juniors are looking forward to prom on March 28th at Andover Country
Club.
g. Finally, over 180 seniors applied for internships which start on April 1st.
2. Director of Finance and Operations – Dr. Pinto thanked Jeff’s Granola for their
donation to the Reading Food Pantry. As a customer of Jeff’s Granola, they annually
donate 100% of profits to charities selected by the customer. Dr. Pinto has held
sixteen budget meetings with various cost centers to review and coordinate dollars
left to spend and also share closing procedures. Finally, Dr. Pinto recently attended
the MASBO Law Institute.
3. Assistant Superintendent for Learning & Teaching – Dr. Hardy highlighted a
community partnership with Shan Soe-Lin from Yale in collaboration with Chief Clark
and the Reading Police Department. With this partnership, we have the opportunity
for a grant which would focus on crisis management. Another great partnership has
been with the Children’s Cabinet who are working to strengthen relationships within
the community. The Children’s Cabinet is co-chaired by Ms. Barbara Best and Ms.
Theresa Wiggins. Ms. Best is currently leading a subgroup focused on relational
aggression.
4. Superintendent – Dr. Milaschewski thanked Ms. Kadi Buckley, Ms. Meaghan
Rondeau, and Ms. Callanan for their coordination around senior internships. Last
year, 80 students were placed last year which has increased to 150 confirmed
internships this year. In total, $175,000 is paid to our students, some of which
businesses pay directly to students from their own budgets.
5. Liaison/Sub-Committee
a. Mr. Robinson – No report
b. Mrs. Nazzaro – The traffic study is complete for the Killam School Building
Project. The next community meeting is on Monday and will focus on this topic.
c. Mr. Brandt – The Finance Committee voted on the warrant articles. The first
night of business will be Thursday evening and Monday night will be more so
procedural as the first day falls on Passover. The first day of town meeting is
fixed in the charter as the fourth Monday which is why it fell on Passover this
year.
d. Mrs. Gaffen – No report
e. Ms. McLaughlin – No report
f. Mr. Wise – Mr. Wise echoed Dr. Hardy’s appreciation for the Children’s Cabinet.
The group has created a form to share with principals and counselors to gather
anonymous information from students and families on the needs they may have
Page | 4
from clothing to food to housing. This is a short-term action plan to help assess
barriers blocking access to education. There will be a Children’s Cabinet
discussion at the next meeting to focus on the needs of our Boston resident
students.
Mrs. Gaffen motioned to take item E4 out of order, seconded by Mr. Brandt. The vote passed
6-0.
E. New Business
4. Fees Structure
Dr. Pinto reminded the committee we are in the process of evaluating all tuition and fees
across the board. Some considerations in evaluating these fees include programmatic
needs, rising operational expenses and salaries, and current market rates and rates that
were provided by neighboring districts. We are recommending adjustments to driver’s
education and student transportation fees.
Director of Community Education, Mr. Chris Nelson, provided context on the adjustment to
the Driver’s Education fees. Driver’s Education has not had an increase since 2012. Fees
have been reviewed and cost compared to neighboring programs. We are proposing an
increase of just slightly over 5%. This increase will allow us to maintain the program, provide
maintenance needed on the Driver’s Education vehicle, and potentially hire an additional
staff member.
The committee discussed the purchase of a new vehicle and where the funds come from for
that as well as the ability to have a green vehicle. The Driver’s Education Program does not
impact the operating budget as it is a level of service.
Mrs. Gaffen motioned to approve the driver’s education fee increase, seconded by Mr.
Brandt. The vote passed 6-0.
Dr. Pinto discussed transportation fees which have not been reviewed since 2016.
Transportation is available to students attending Killam, Parker, Coolidge and the high
school for a fee based on space availability. We are proposing a nominal increase of 4-6%.
We will reevaluate the transportation fees again next year to cover the cost of
transportation as a new contract was just signed which includes year-over-year escalators.
Mrs. Gaffen motioned to approve the fee increase for transportation for fiscal year 2025,
seconded by Mr. Brandt. The vote passed 6-0.
3. Student Opportunity Act Plan Review, Discussion, and Vote
Dr. Hardy presented the Student Opportunity Act Plan which has to formally be approved
by the committee before it can be submitted to DESE. For background, Dr. Hardy provided
an overview of the act, the fiscal changes made in Chapter 70 Funding from SOA, the plan
requirements, and how it relates to our district strategic plan. Highlights from the SOA plan
were shared as well as the targets for 3-year improvements which are set by DESE.
Page | 5
Mrs. Gaffen motioned to approve the 2024-2027 Student Opportunity Act Plan, seconded
by Mr. Robinson. The vote passed 6-0.
Mr. Wise motioned to adjourn, seconded by Mr. Robinson. The vote passed 6-0.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=up5zewHQ92Q
Meeting Adjourned from regular session at approximately 8:35pm.
TO: Reading School Committee
FROM: Olivia Lejeune, Executive Assistant to the Superintendent
DATE: April 2, 2024
RE: Vote to Approve Canobie Lake Park Field Trip Request
Please vote to approve an out of state field trip request to the Canobie Lake Park on June 7th for the
Parker 7th and 8th Grade Choruses and Bands. The departure time is at 3:00 PM and the return time is
8:30 PM.
Please find attached the field trip approval form.
Thank you.
Reading Public Schools
Instilling a joy of learning and inspiring the innovative leaders of tomorrow 82 Oakland Road
Reading, MA 01867
Phone: 781-944-5800
Fax: 781-942-9149
TO: Reading School Committee
FROM: Olivia Lejeune, Executive Assistant to the Superintendent
DATE: April 2, 2024
RE: Vote to Approve Senior Prom Field Trip Request
Please vote to approve an out of state field trip request to the Atkinson Country Club on May 28th for
the Senior Prom. The departure time is at approximately 6:00 PM and the return time is approximately
10:40 PM.
Please find attached the field trip approval form.
Thank you.
Reading Public Schools
Instilling a joy of learning and inspiring the innovative leaders of tomorrow 82 Oakland Road
Reading, MA 01867
Phone: 781-944-5800
Fax: 781-942-9149
New Business
Reading Public Schools
School Committee Meeting Packet
April 4, 2024
TO: Reading School Committee
FROM: Olivia Lejeune, Executive Assistant to the Superintendent
DATE: April 1, 2024
RE: Friends of Reading METCO Discussion
Please find below a memo from Ms. Ilka Walkley and Ms. LaVonda Epps, Co-Chairs of the Friends of
Reading METCO, in preparation for the April 4th School Committee meeting:
Thank you for the opportunity to join the School Committee meeting on 4/4. As discussed, we would like
to have a 20-minute conversation with the School Committee members around the following questions:
Thinking about our Reading METCO program overall:
1.What are you proud of?
2.What are your hopes for the program in future?
3.What do you see as your role in making these hopes a reality?
I will open up the conversation after your introduction and keep an eye on time. LaVonda will pose the
questions to the School Committee and we will invite input from any community members present.
We want to keep the conversation about the program overall, and if any individual issues come up we
will refer them to you (Tom) and Kurtis to respond outside of the meeting.
Thanks again for this opportunity,
Ilka Walkley
LaVonda Epps
Co-Chairs Friends of Reading METCO
Reading Public Schools
Instilling a joy of learning and inspiring the innovative leaders of tomorrow 82 Oakland Road
Reading, MA 01867
Phone: 781-944-5800
Fax: 781-942-9149
TO: Reading School Committee
FROM: Olivia Lejeune, Executive Assistant to the Superintendent
DATE: April 2, 2024
RE: State of the Reading METCO Program
During the April 4th School Committee meeting, METCO Director, Mr. Kurtis Martin, will provide an
update on the state of the Reading METCO program. Please find a copy of the presentation in the
packet.
Reading Public Schools
Instilling a joy of learning and inspiring the innovative leaders of tomorrow 82 Oakland Road
Reading, MA 01867
Phone: 781-944-5800
Fax: 781-942-9149
Reading METCO
2023-2024
Senior
Shoutout
•Jamir Celestin
•Zidane Lopes-Oliveira
•Nahkeem Singleton
•Semaje Peete
•Juliana Martin
•Jeremiah Louis
•Revaun Ryland
•D’monye Daughtry
METCO
Coordinator Role
•Meeting with Boston resident students regularly to
support academic, social and emotional needs. (Small
groups, individually)
•Build connection and relationships with and between
Boston & Reading resident students.
•Build connections and relationships with and between
Boston and Reading resident families.
•Act as a member of the school leadership team; model
culturally responsive leadership competencies.
•Assisting principal and teachers with proactive &
responsive communication with Boston resident families
regarding their student’s experience in school, including
academic, social and emotional progress.
METCO
Coordinator
Support
•METCO Team Meeting –Meet Bi-Weekly with Director to design METCO programming across schools & role alike processing.
•Monthly METCO Rotating Site Visits –1 school is selected each month and all METCO coordinators and Director attend selected school where selected school principal and METCO coordinator share best practices.
•METCO Triad Meeting –METCO Director meets with each individual school principal and METCO coordinator to reflect on student progress and district wide METCO goals.
•Monthly Meeting between METCO Director and Principals -Meet to discuss METCO goals, initiatives, and support needed by level
METCO
Coordinator Impact
•“If I have any problems I can go directly to him.It gives
me a space where I can speak freely. He connects well
with students. Having someone that looks like me that I
can go to who understands things, can relate and I can
trust helps academically and emotionally. I didn't have
an adult in the building I could go to when Mr. Luc
wasn't here.”Andrea Hall 10th grade. Started in
Kindergarten.
•“He’s on point.He really helped Nahkeem out a lot. He
helped with academic, health, life, and bringing him
home sometimes after practice or games.Mr. Luc is a
great example of what black men can do and the impact
they have on black children in school. Nahkeem really
looks up to him.Nahkeem can talk to him about
anything, and he always keeps it real with
Nahkeem.”Kami Singleton, Nahkeem mom
Found Family
•“Found Family” is "a group of
people who unite in a family bond
based on shared experiences,
mutual understanding, and
interpersonal connection. Found
Family is not biological but found
when placed in a new place.“
•Coordinators have confirmed that
every Boston resident has at least 2
Reading resident friends
•Franklin Park Zoo Boston Lights
•Black Nativity play
•Kite Festival?
2023-2024
Cultural Events
•Hispanic Heritage Month –Lunch
•Black History Month Lunch
•Barrows Black History month door
decorations
•Wood End –PA based Illstyle and
Peace Production. Taught students
dance and history of hip hop.
•Kwanza play at Roxbury Community
College
2023-2024 Cultural
Professional
Development
•MDA Conference –Largest turnout for any METCO District.
•Wood End –Dr. Carlos Hoyt did PD on Diversity without Divisiveness
•Kathy Lopes “Culturally Responsive Communities –Birch Meadow
•Boston Public Schools Site Visit
•See strong, culturally responsive instruction
•Learn about ways BPS school and classrooms affirm student
identity leading to sense of belonging.
•Notice school culture
•Observe classroom management techniques, such as restorative
practices.
•Observe how teachers and paras work together.
•Learn how teachers interact with parents/guardians to support
student learning.
Model District
•Provided remarks at METCO HQ
Leadership Retreat at Gillette
Stadium around best practice.
•Hosted visits to share best
practices with
Marblehead,Swampscott,Melros
e Weston, Wayland, DESE, and
METCO Board Director President
&Vice President.
2024-2025
Enrollment
•16 new students’ targeting
grades 1st-10th.
•Students and parents will visit
school
•Student will spend time in new
potential school.
2025 HBCU
Tour
•Atlanta –FR & SO
•DC –JR & SR
•Fundraising
•2023 HBCU Student Staff
reflection:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1RoPL-
ZQa19RGEbbhHDLIxBYyBGQ4kEze/view?
usp=sharing
Level Funded
North Shore
Advocacy Day May 17, 2024 Location TBD
TO:
FROM:
DATE:
RE:
Reading School Committee
Thomas Milaschewski, Superintendent
April 2, 2024
RMHS High School Scheduling Pilot Update
During the April 4th School Committee meeting, Ms. Jessica Callanan will provide a 10-minute overview
of the high school pilot schedule. The overview will include the goals of the pilot schedule, feedback
received from school stakeholders, and potential next steps.
Reading Public Schools
Instilling a joy of learning and inspiring the innovative leaders of tomorrow 82 Oakland Road
Reading, MA 01867
Phone: 781-944-5800
Fax: 781-942-9149
RMHS
Pilot Survey Results & Analysis
March 2024
Survey Respondents:
●Staff -102
●Students -571
●Parent / Caregiver -68
Student Respondents by Grade:
Staff Respondents by Job Description:
Staff Respondents by Department:
Staff Respondents:
In the pilot schedule:
Staff Students
Student Responses:
Students responded……73.8% liked all or portions of the schedule.
Parent & Caregiver Responses:
Parents / Caregivers responded……62% reported their students were positive or liked the pilot schedule.
Sentiment: Drop 1 or 2 Periods (Staff):
●It was fine
●It was great
●It was disruptive
●Starting and stopping at the same time each day made it easier to stay on
track
●Days seemed to go by quickly
●I like flex as a class period
●I would like to move flex to different periods to ensure the needs of part
time staff are addressed
Sentiment: Drop 1 or 2 Periods (Student):
Sentiment: Drop 1 or 2 Periods (Parent / Caregiver):
Do you want to adopt the pilot schedule?
Staff StudentYes -84.3%Yes -80.8%
Block Schedule Feedback:
Block Schedule Feedback (Staff):
Block Schedule Feedback (Students):
Main Priorities of Scheduling Committee (Est. 2021-Present)
●Increased Time on Learning
●Equity for Students and Departments
●Increased Opportunity for Student Engagement
●Additional Common Planning Time
Note: Based on survey feedback -changed lunch (D and E only) and flex on Day 4 to meet needs of PT staff
schedules.
Next Steps
●Final meetings w/ district staff & School Committee
●Decision on ER time
●Discussion about Mid-Year Week
●Compensate and give time to staff that need to modify curriculum / grids due to schedule
change
●Finalize decision before April break to allow for scheduling for 2024-25
●Publish schedule for next year to community and communicate rationale for change again
TO: Reading School Committee
FROM: Dr. Sarah Hardy, Assistant Superintendent for Learning and Teaching
DATE: April 1, 2024
RE: RPS Math Pathways Update
Earlier in the year, we committed to providing an update on the work being done with Math Pathways
about every six weeks. During the April 4th School Committee meeting, we will provide our second six
week update on the Math Pathways Advisory Committee.
Thank you.
Reading Public Schools
Instilling a joy of learning and inspiring the innovative leaders of tomorrow 82 Oakland Road
Reading, MA 01867
Phone: 781-944-5800
Fax: 781-942-9149
1 | Page
To: Reading School Committee
From: Olivia Lejeune, Executive Assistant to the Superintendent
Date: April 4, 2024
Re: FY25 Kindergarten Registration Update
During the February 29 meeting, we provided an update on FY25 Kindergarten Registration. At that
time, we had received 220 registrations for enrollment in the kindergarten program for the 2024-2025
school year. Since that meeting, we have received six registrations bringing us to a total of 227
registrations. As a reminder, the census data for rising kindergarten age students, those born between
9/1/2018 and 8/31/2019, totaled 268 students now leaving us 41 students behind in registrations
compared to census and projected enrollment.
The timeline for kindergarten registration is outlined below:
o December 7, 2023 – Mail parent/guardian letters and post info to website
o January 5, 2024 – Post registration documents
o January 9, 2024 – Virtual Kindergarten Information Session
o January 31, 2024 – Kindergarten Registration Parents/Guardians bring in their
completed registration packet
o February 9, 2024 – Second mailing to parents/guardians of unregistered students
o February 27, 2024 – Third mailing to parents/guardians of unregistered students
o By March 15, 2024 – Principals reach out to enrolled students to share transition
activities
o Spring 2024 – Building-based transition activities
As noted above, we started outreach to parents/guardians on December 7th by mailing a flyer to the
home of all eligible kindergarten students. That flyer included a QR code for parents/guardians to sign
up for email communications. After the Kindergarten Registration Night, we mailed a second flyer to the
home of all eligible kindergarten students who did not register. The third mailing was a letter from the
Superintendent sharing information about the importance of registering their student as early as
possible to ensure they are placed in their neighborhood school.
After the third mailing, we began personal outreach if we had contact information to try to determine if
parents/guardians were registering their rising kindergarten age student. While we were only able to
reach a handful of families, we found that most are planning to hold off one more year and will register
their student for the 2025-2026 school year, some families have moved out of Reading, and a select few
are enrolling their student in private school.
Please note, there are currently four kindergarten classes slated for Killam. With a smaller incoming
cohort, we have decided to reallocate one of the kindergarten teachers to fifth grade. This adjustment
accounts for a unique bubble year and the increased enrollment in fifth grade. We are continuing to
closely monitor kindergarten registrations and advertising throughout the town and on our website. We
Reading Public Schools
Instilling a joy of learning and inspiring the innovative leaders of tomorrow 82 Oakland Road
Reading, MA 01867
Phone: 781-944-5800
Fax: 781-942-9149
2 | Page
will keep the School Committee informed if we need to make any adjustments to class consolidations at
particular schools as we monitor enrollment.
Below please find projected kindergarten class sizes by school for the 227 registrations received to date:
TO: Reading School Committee
FROM: Thomas Milaschewski, Superintendent
DATE: April 2, 2024
RE: Approve Last Day of School for SY23-24
During the April 4th School Committee meeting, we will request that School Committee approves June
14, 2024 as the last day of school for SY23-24. The original SY23-24 calendar listed June 13th, 2024 as
the last day of school, but with one snow day, the last day should be pushed back one day until June
14th, 2024.
Reading Public Schools
Instilling a joy of learning and inspiring the innovative leaders of tomorrow 82 Oakland Road
Reading, MA 01867
Phone: 781-944-5800
Fax: 781-942-9149
TO: Reading School Committee
FROM: Olivia Lejeune, Executive Assistant to the Superintendent
DATE: April 1, 2024
RE: Appointment to JLMC’s
As contract negotiations have successfully concluded for all bargaining units, we are now moving forward with the
establishment of Joint Labor Management Committees (JLMCs). The primary objective of these committees is to foster
collaboration among bargaining units post negotiations. We are recommending one (1) School Committee member be
appointed to each of the following committees. Please note that there are additional JLMCs and we will seek School
Committee representatives at the start of the 2024-2025 school year. However, the committees listed below (by
bargaining unit) have been identified as having a more immediate timeline.
Title Bargaining Unit Timeline Start Timeline End Overview/Purpose
Elementary Breakfast
Program
Reading Cafeteria
Employees
May 2024 June 2024 Mandatory breakfast service at all
Elementary schools offering lunch
(may result in OT)
Sick Leave/Leaves with
and without Pay
Paraeducator March 2024 June 2024 Review and propose language
modification concerning Sick
Leave (Article 9), Temporary
Leaves with Pay (Article 10), and
Leaves of Absence without Pay
(Article 11) in order to better align
with RTA contract
Nursing Reading Teachers
Association
Contract does
not specify
Contract does
not specify
Review nurse specific issues,
including current contractual
language, and if necessary, make
recommendations for further
negotiations.
Overtime Reading Cafeteria
Employees
October 2024 June 2025 Review overtime procedure
Reading Public Schools
Instilling a joy of learning and inspiring the innovative leaders of tomorrow 82 Oakland Road
Reading, MA 01867
Phone: 781-944-5800
Fax: 781-942-9149
Old Business
Reading Public Schools
School Committee Meeting Packet
April 4, 2024
Reading Public Schools
Instilling a joy of learning and inspiring the innovative leaders of
82 Oakland Road
Reading, MA 01867
Phone: 781-944-5800
Fax: 781-942-9149
Date: April 4, 2024
To: Tom Milaschewski, Superintendent
From: Derek Pinto, Director of Finance and Operations
Re: Athletics, Drama and Band Fees
Reading Memorial High School (RMHS) provides a wide array of athletics/clubs/activities as an outlet and
opportunity for the diverse talents and interests of the student body.
To support the cost of the activities and teams that provide RMHS students with rich experiences beyond the
classroom, RMHS assesses user fees for extra-curricular activities. The revenue received from these user fees
allows the school to maintain high-quality programs and maintain present levels of advisors and coaches.
User fees have been in place since the 2018 school year. The re-evaluation of fees was borne out of necessity, as
there have been increases in both material and service costs that have made offering activities more expensive.
These increases include but are not limited to:
• Membership association fees (MIAA, Middlesex League, MSTCA)
• Facility rental fees (Burbank Ice, Boston University/New Balance/ Reggie Lewis track facilities, YMCA)
• Officials (baseball, basketball, ice hockey, soccer, swim, volleyball, various sports)
• Transportation
• Equipment purchase/replacement/repair, in-game security, software management package
• Costumes, sets construction, props, makeup, lights
In FY22-23 1,201 students participated in HS Athletics, while 242 students participated in HS Band and HS
Drama activities. Increases differ across activities, as there are varying costs associated with each. Increases will
serve to ensure sustainability of the activities, will defray expenses, and reduce the burden on the Operating
Budget.
Students Current Fee
FY24
Proposed Fee
FY25
Approx.
Increase (%)
Athletics HS $325 $340 5%
Athletics HS Family Cap $750 child
$950 family
$800 child
$1000 family
7%
5%
Band HS (Marching, Jazz, Stage,
Percussion, Color Guard)
$200 $210 5%
Band HS Family Cap $475 child
$750 family
$485 child
$760 family
2%
1%
Drama HS Crew $75 $80 7%
Drama HS Cast/Lead Tech $150 $160 7%
Drama HS Family Cap $375 child
$550 family
$385 child /
$560 family
3%
2%
Reading Public Schools
Instilling a joy of learning and inspiring the innovative leaders of
82 Oakland Road
Reading, MA 01867
Phone: 781-944-5800
Fax: 781-942-9149
Date: April 4, 2024
To: Tom Milaschewski, Superintendent
From: Derek Pinto, Director of Finance and Operations
Re: Use of Facilities (Rental) Fees
The mission of the Facilities Department is, in part, to support Reading Public Schools’ educational function.
This mission is accomplished through quality delivery of facilities services in a timely and cost-effective
manner, along with exceptional customer service.
The development of a quality educational program and school facilities that help to implement the program
must go together. With the full support of the School Department and School Committee, Facilities staff strive
to maintain an efficient, safe, clean, attractive, and inviting environment.
It is also the School Committee’s desire that maximum use of school property be enjoyed by the townspeople,
while maintaining safe conditions and preserving the property for school program use. To this end, a fee
schedule has been established to offset the materials and service costs incurred when outside organizations rent
school facilities. This provides “recovery revenue” which is placed in a Revolving Account. The fees need to be
adjusted, as the direct costs to the district have widened the gap between operating costs and revenues.
The current fee schedule has been in place since 2018. Since that time, costs have increased for custodial
personnel, utilities (to include, but not limited to: lights, HVAC, water), floor refinishing, “wear & tear” on
equipment, security, custodial supplies and other support services in operating and maintaining school facilities.
The recommendation of an updated fee schedule is intended to consolidate and simplify the fee structure and
considers current wage and rental market rates.
Increases were calculated at 2.5% for facilities use fees for each category (Reading Non-Profit, Reading For-
Profit/Out-of-Town Non-Profit, and Out-of-Town For-Profit) year-over-year for the seven-year period since
fees were last reviewed. In some cases, a further adjustment was required based on market rates, labor required
for set-up/clean-up or square footage. Labor rates have been changed to reflect current cost. The current and
proposed schedules are attached for your review.
Reading Public Schools Proposed FY25 Use of Facility (Rental) Rates
Location
FY24
Reading Non-
Profit
FY25
Reading
Non-Profit
FY24 Reading For-
Profit, Out-of-
Town Non-Profit
FY25 Reading For-
Profit, Out-of-
Town Non-Profit
FY24 Out-of-
Town For-
Profit
FY 25 Out-
of-Town For-
Profit
No Minimum 2-Hour Minimum 4-Hour Minimum
RMHS
Performance 75$ 88$ 110$ 130$ 150$ 177$
Rehearsal 25$ 29$ 45$ 53$ 55$ 65$
Dressing Room 15$ 20$ 20$ 25$ 25$ 35$
Parker
Performance*30$ 40$ 70$ 83$ 100$ 118$
Rehearsal 15$ 22$ 25$ 30$ 35$ 42$
Dressing Room*10$ 16$ 15$ 18$ 20$ 30$
RMHS Field House (Main Floor)50$ 58$ 110$ 130$ 130$ 153$
Middle Schools 20$ 23$ 30$ 36$ 40$ 47$
Elementary -Wood Flooring*15$ 20$ 25$ 30$ 35$ 42$
Elementary - Alternate Surface Floor*10$ 15$ 20$ 24$ 30$ 36$
RMHS 30$ 35$ 80$ 94$ 90$ 106$
Middle Schools*15$ 25$ 40$ 47$ 50$ 59$
Elementary Schools*12$ 22$ 30$ 36$ 40$ 47$
RMHS Distance Learning Room 30$ 35$ 50$ 59$ 60$ 71$
Coolidge Middle School 20$ 23$ 40$ 47$ 50$ 59$
Parker Middle School 15$ 17$ 35$ 42$ 45$ 53$
RMHS 20$ 23$ 30$ 36$ 40$ 47$
Middle Schools*10$ 15$ 20$ 24$ 30$ 36$
Elementary Schools*5$ 10$ 15$ 18$ 25$ 30$
Stadium (Turf 1 & Track)*75$ 88$ 150$ 177$ 200$ 300$
Press Box & Score Board 25$ 29$ 50$ 59$ 75$ 89$
Stadium Exterior Restrooms 20$ 23$ 35$ 42$ 50$ 59$
Practice Field (Turf 2)* 40$ 47$ 80$ 94$ 120$ 190$
Field Lighting 25$ 35$ 30$ 47$ 40$ 59$
Weekday/Weekend Custodial $38/$43 48$ $38/$43 48$ $38/$43 48$
Holiday Custodial 55$ 63$ 55$ 63$ 55$ 63$
Weekday/Weekend Maintenance $45/$49 61$ $45/$49 61$ $45/$49 61$
Holiday Maintenance 59$ 80$ 59$ 80$ 59$ 80$
Weekday/Weekend Licensed Maintenance $54/$58 64$ $54/$58 64$ $54/$58 64$
Holiday Licensed Maintenance 71$ 91$ 71$ 91$ 71$ 91$
Portable PA System, Projector 10 20$ 15$ 25$ 20$ 35$
Auditorium Installed AV Equipment & Stage Lighting***50$ 50$ 75$ 75$ 125$ 125$
RPS Technology Staff 20$ 55$ 20$ 55$ 20$ 55$
RPS Performance Technician**40$ 40$ 40$
Notes:Proposed for FY25
*Adjustments account for set-up/breakdown, square footage, market rates
**New line added to accurately reflect service provided
***Technician NOT included
Custodial, Maintenance Staff Fees
Technology/Technology Staff Fees
All rates are PER HOUR beginning at time of arrival and ending at actual time of departure. Note minimums.
All rates are subject to change without notice per vote of the Reading School Committee.
Auditoriums
Gymnasiums
Cafeterias
Multi-Purpose Rooms
Classrooms
RMHS Athletic Fields
Information/Correspondence
Reading Public Schools
School Committee Meeting Packet
April 4, 2024
From:Milaschewski, Thomas
To:alcongdon@hotmail.com; DG School Committee
Subject:RE: Grand piano 03/27/2024
Date:Monday, April 1, 2024 12:30:03 PM
Hi Allyson,
Thanks so much for reaching out! I know Dr. David Mosher is finding a time to connect with you to check out the
instrument. We will be in touch following your meeting with Dr. Mosher to talk through next steps in the donation
process.
Again, we are appreciative of your offer to support our students and programming.
Best,
Tom Milaschewski, Superintendent
-----Original Message-----
From: Allyson Congdon <tadddamronn@gmail.com>
Sent: Wednesday, March 27, 2024 3:07 PM
To: DG School Committee <SchoolCommittee@reading.k12.ma.us>
Subject: Grand piano 03/27/2024
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of Reading Public Schools. Do not click links or open attachments
unless you recognize the sender email address and know the content is safe.
Hello,
I'm offering my late husband's Yamaha Piano to any music enthusiast. If you or someone you know might value this
instrument, please don't hesitate to reach out to me.
Warm regards,
Allyson
Appendix
Reading Public Schools
School Committee Meeting Packet
April 4, 2024
Administrative Offices
82 Oakland Road
Reading, MA 01867
781 944-5800
READING SCHOOL COMMITTEE
Thomas Wise Chair
Erin Gaffen Vice-Chair
Shawn Brandt
Sarah McLaughlin
Carla Nazzaro
Charles Robinson
Thomas Milaschewski, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools
TO: Reading School Committee
FROM: Thomas Wise, Reading School Committee Chair
DATE: March 31, 2024
TOPIC: Future Agenda Items
After our last meeting, Dr. Milaschewski, Erin, and I sat down to plan the agendas for the rest of the year. I wanted to
quickly share those with you in case there was anything else you wanted or expected to see before the end of the fiscal
year. The tentative agendas are:
Thursday, May 9, 2024
Student Advisory Committee (pre-regular meeting)
Phil Vaccaro Facility Naming Ask
Annual Student Resource Officer Update
LEAD Program Review (Note: if the review is not complete by this date, this item will be shifted to the
next meeting)
Policy FF Discussions
Q3 Financial Update
School Choice Discussion
Thursday, May 23, 2024
End-of-Year Teaching & Learning Curriculum Update
Benchmark Update vs. District Strategic Plan
Mid-Cycle Formative Review Evidence Presentation
Phil Vaccaro Subcommittee Formation
Thursday, June 6, 2024
Staff Member of Year Awards (pre-regular meeting)
SEPAC End-of-Year Update
End-of-Year Personnel Update
Student Services End of Year Update including Program Review Updates
Thursday, June 20, 2024
Pre Q4 Financial Update w/ Votes on Budget Transfer(s)
Special Education Reserve Fund Report w/ Vote on Reserve Fund Allocation
ARC Phase III Update
Math Pathways Final Update
Mid-Cycle Formative Review
Annual Reorganization
We may have more than one discussion on Policy FF and if so, we can slot those follow-up discussions into meetings
after the 9th of May. Please let me know if there is anything we missed or that you would like to discuss so we can find
the appropriate meeting to slot those requests in.
Thank you.