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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2026-05-28 School Committee PacketOpen Session 7:00 p.m. Reading Memorial High School Library Reading, MA Reading Public Schools School Committee Meeting Packet May 28, 2026 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 | 1 2018-07-16 LAG Board - Committee - Commission - Council: School Committee Date: 2026-05-28 Time: 7:00 PM Building: School - Memorial High Location: School Library Address: 62 Oakland Road Agenda: Purpose: Open Session Meeting Called By: Shawn Brandt, 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 – RMHS Valedictorian and Salutatorian Consent Agenda 1. Minutes (05-11-2026) 2. RMHS Switzerland Field Trip Request 3. Parker 8th Grade Field Trip/Class Trip Donation 4. Acceptance of 2026 Summer Eats Grant Award 5. Women’s League of Reading – RISE Donation 6. Women’s League of Reading – Coolidge Donation 7. Women’s League of Reading – Parker Donation 8. Women’s League of Reading – Unified Sports Donation Accounts Payable Warrant Reports 1. 04-29-2026 2. 04-30-2026 3. 05-07-2026 4. 05-14-2026 Payroll Warrant Reports 1. 03-19-2026 2. 04-10-2026 3. 04-24-2026 Reports 1. Superintendent 2. Liaison/Sub-Committee 7:10 p.m. E. New Business 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 1. SEPAC FY26 End-of-Year Update 2. Student Services End-of-Year Update 3. Discuss Superintendent Formative Review Process 8:20 p.m. D. Old Business 1. Review and Approve Membership for Facility Naming Advisory Committee (A) 2. School Choice Update and Next Steps G. Executive Session 1. To discuss strategy with respect to collective bargaining (Reading Teachers Association, Reading Paraeducators Association, Reading Administrative Secretaries Association, Reading Cafeteria Employees, and Reading Facilities School Custodians) as an open meeting will have a detrimental effect on the bargaining position of the Reading School Committee. 8:45 p.m. Adjourn Join Zoom Meeting https://readingpsma.zoom.us/j/89832677786?pwd=OlXt3aNfOMLCBZJAteW9FY0aS9Lb0p.1 Meeting ID: 898 3267 7786 Passcode: 4rR^LY Find your local number: https://readingpsma.zoom.us/u/kfxn1VshO Consent Agenda Reading Public Schools School Committee Meeting Packet May 28, 2026 Town of Reading Meeting Minutes Page | 1 2016-09-22 LAG Board - Committee - Commission - Council: School Committee Date: 2026-05-11 Time: 7:00 PM Building: Location: Address: Session: Open Session Purpose: Open Session Version: Attendees: Members - Present: Shawn Brandt, Tom Wise, Lara Durgavich, Erin Gaffen and Geoffrey Coram Members - Not Present: Sarah McLaughlin Others Present: Superintendent Dr. Thomas Milaschewski, Assistant Superintednent for Leaarning and Teaching Dr. Sarah Hardy, and Co-METCO Directors Cindy Marte and Jerika Santiago Minutes Respectfully Submitted By: Olivia Lejeune on behalf of the chairperson. Topics of Discussion: A. Call to Order – Mr. Brandt called the meeting to order at 7:00pm thanking the METCO Headquarters in Roxbury for hosting the meeting. B. Public Comment – None Focus on Excellence – Spotlight on Boston Resident Seniors The committee recognized Boston-resident METCO seniors Andrea Hall, Happiness Deji, Clinton King, Karmani Mirville, Barrington Anderson Jr., Aidan Williams, Asad Layne, Jahnai Belfon, Fabricio Amado, Rejon Ryland, and Jahkye Hobson, who shared information about their years as Reading students and their post-graduate plans. Consent Agenda 1. Minutes (04-04-2026) 2. Minutes (04-10-2026) 3. Minutes (04-16-2026) 4. RMHS Girls Track Donation 5. Request to Surplus Property – Central Office Accounts Payable Warrant Reports 1. 04-16-2026 2. 04-23-2026 Payroll Warrant Reports Page | 2 1. 03-19-2026 2. 04-10-2026 3. 04-24-2026 Mrs. Gaffen motioned to approve the consent agenda, seconded by Mrs. Durgavich. The vote passed 5-0. Reports 1. Superintendent – Dr. Milaschewski noted that former METCO Director Kurtis Martin joined the meeting and thanked him for his leadership when he worked in Reading, recognizing his lasting impact on the community and the strong foundation he helped establish. He also expressed appreciation for the leadership of current Co- METCO Directors Cindy Marte and Jerika Santiago, noting the program is well- positioned due to their ongoing work. Dr. Milaschewski also congratulated Dr. Ramsey Merritt, who served as a Harvard Fellow completing a full-time residency in Reading, and thanked both him and the Harvard Graduate School of Education for a second year of funding supporting the full-time residency model. Finally, he congratulated RMHS on being awarded a sixth Innovation Pathway in Business and Finance, noting that student feedback demonstrated strong interest in expanding opportunities in this area. 2. Liaison/Sub-Committee a. Mr. Wise – The Select Board held its retreat and, based on guidance from the Town Accountant, was advised to strongly consider a $7.7 million override in November. This amount was presented as a minimum estimate and is important to note as it relates to the impact on the FY28 budget. The potential override may be placed on the November ballot, and planning discussions are expected to continue over the summer. b. Mrs. Durgavich – No report c. Dr. Coram – No report d. Mrs. Gaffen – No report e. Mr. Brandt – Mr. Brandt will refocus on the Facility Naming Advisory Committee at the next meeting, including a review of the committee’s membership composition to support the committee in its work. E. New Business 1. Friends of Reading METCO Introduction and Appreciation Dr. Milaschewski noted that members of Friends of Reading METCO may have been present on the Zoom and took the opportunity to thank them for their leadership. He specifically recognized Ilka Walkey and LaVonda Epps for facilitating listening sessions since the fall with families, students, and staff to gather feedback and support continuous improvement of the program. He added that this feedback will be used to help inform future goals for the METCO program. Page | 3 2. State of the Reading METCO Program Cindy Marte and Jerika Santiago provided an update on the Reading METCO program, highlighting a range of school-year events, afterschool tutoring support through Ignite Reading, and efforts to support students both in and out of school. They expressed appreciation for their partnership with school PTOs, which enabled staff participation in the Spring METCO Gala. They also shared information about METCO Advocacy Day and noted strong attendance and engagement. A brief video featuring sophomore Tyree Walker was shared, in which he described feeling supported as a student in Reading. The update concluded with recognition of METCO staff members Shaquanda Brown, Janina Santiago, Sonia Lomba, Julian Lind, Katherine Quevedo, Luc Ulysse, and Mykel Derring for their ongoing work and support of students. Discussion followed regarding new initiatives, including a focus on 7th grade social- emotional learning (SEL) supports. It was noted that, despite budget constraints, additional funding had been awarded, and there is interest in partnering with Dr. Hardy to target identified educational gaps and provide additional student supports. Community member Wanita Jackson thanked the team and commended their work, also noting positive student experiences within the program. Sonia Lomba shared updates on initiatives supporting Killam, including efforts related to the Killam play. She discussed collaborating with extended day to incorporate more multicultural dance offerings and shared plans to develop a multicultural night at Killam in the coming year. Overall, there was shared recognition of the important role counselors play in schools, with appreciation expressed for their support and leadership in serving students. 3. Review and Approve HR Director Search Process and Timeline (A) Dr. Milaschewski provided an update on the proposed hiring process following the departure of HR Director Michelle Roach. He shared that the position was posted on May 7, with applications closing on May 31. Screening and interviews are planned for early June, with a target start date of July 1 and flexibility into August. The process will be led by Superintendent Thomas Milaschewski in coordination with incoming Superintendent Dr. Henry Turner. Mr. Brandt motioned to approve the HR Director Search Process and Timeline as presented, seconded by Mr. Wise. The vote passed 5-0. Mr. Brandt thanked Ms. Roach for her service to Reading and for her efforts in professionalizing the department. The committee then discussed the School Committee representative role on the committee and potential membership. Mr. Wise and Mrs. Page | 4 Durgavich both expressed interest in serving, with consensus emerging that Mrs. Durgavich may have more capacity to commit the necessary time to the process. 4. FY26 Q3 Financial Update Mr. Littlehale presented the Q3 financial update and reported a projected year-end general fund balance of just under $1 million. Planned allocations include approximately $800,000 for special education tuition prepayments and $200,000 for a technology refresh, with no general fund surplus expected to be returned to the town. A question was raised regarding whether additional funds could be identified within the budget as the fiscal year closes. Mr. Littlehale shared that the district is currently in the process of closing out purchase orders and expects to have a clearer understanding of final available funds by mid-June. He noted that the district will continue working to maximize any additional available funds where possible. A question was also raised regarding whether the town was aware that no funds would be returned this year. It was noted that this had not been a recent topic of discussion, and that a similar conversation had not occurred for FY26. Mr. Littlehale also reviewed grants and revolving accounts, noting that the METCO grant is projected to end near zero due to flat funding and rising transportation costs. IDEA grant balances continue to decline as a result of increased special education expenses. He shared that revolving accounts overall remain in a positive position, supported by strong performance in community education and afterschool programs. Additionally, the school lunch fund has been separated into operating and capital views to provide clearer financial reporting. A question was raised regarding the source of capital funding (approximately $780,000). It was explained that this included one-time state funding received approximately four years ago, which contributed to a larger surplus in FY21 or FY22, and that the district continues to monitor this account closely. Mr. Littlehale also provided an update on the Libby Scholarship Fund, noting that attorneys are in discussions with probate court to modify the process, though resolution may take some time. In response to a question regarding revenue sources for lost books and technology, it was explained that students may purchase a $25 insurance option; if insurance is not purchased, families are responsible for replacement costs. 5. Vote to approve the transfer of remaining funds from the Coolidge Extracurricular Revolving Fund to the Coolidge Student Activities Revolving Fund and to close the Coolidge Extracurricular account, authorizing the Superintendent or designee to complete the necessary accounting entries (A) Page | 5 Mr. Brandt motioned to approve the transfer of remaining funds from the Coolidge Extracurricular Revolving Fund to the Coolidge Student Activities Revolving Fund, authorizing the Superintendent or designee to complete the necessary accounting entries, seconded by Dr. Coram. The vote passed 5-0. Mr. Brandt motioned to approve closing the Coolidge Extracurricular account, authorizing the Superintendent or designee to complete the necessary accounting entries, seconded by Mrs. Gaffen. The vote passed 5-0. Mr. Brandt motioned to adjourn, seconded by Mrs. Durgavich. The vote passed 5-0. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J1hcbhgqPSg Meeting Adjourned from regular session at approximately 8:26pm. TO: Reading School Committee FROM: Olivia Lejeune, Executive Assistant to the Superintendent DATE: May 20, 2026 RE: Vote to Approve RMHS Switzerland Field Trip Request Please vote to approve an international field trip for RMHS students in grades 10, 11 or 12 to travel to Basel, Switzerland from April 10, 2027 – April 24, 2027. The field trip approval form is included in the packet. 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: May 20, 2026 RE: Vote to Accept Parker 8th Grade Field Trip/Class Trip Donation Please vote to accept a donation in the amount of $500 from the Durgavich Family to support any eighth grade student who may need financial assistance in order to participate in an upcoming eighth grade field trip and/or class trip. 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 CC: Dr. Thomas Milaschewski, Superintendent of Schools Philip Littlehale, Director of Finance and Operations DATE: May 6, 2026 FR: Katelyn Finnegan, Assistant Business Manager RE: Acceptance of 2026 Summer Eats Grant Award Project Bread has awarded Reading Public Schools with a 2026 Summer Eats Grant Award in the amount of $4,000. This funding will again help support the continued expansion of our Summer Eats Program, with a particular focus on growing our open summer meal sites throughout the qualifying communities in which we sponsor. This summer, Reading Public Schools has partnered with some of the local summer recreation programs to better align our open meal sites with community summer camps, playground programs, and splash pad locations, in an effort to increase access and participation for families. The grant funding will support the purchase of necessary safe food transport equipment, including insulated bags and ice packs, as well as the hourly wages for summer staff needed to safely and successfully operate these expanded meal sites. We are grateful for Project Bread’s continued partnership and support of our efforts to ensure that all children have access to nutritious meals throughout the summer months. Thank you for your continued support and your vote to accept the 2026 Summer Eats Grant Award. 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: May 20, 2026 RE: Vote to Accept Women’s League of Reading – RISE Donation Please vote to accept a donation in the amount of $500 from the Women’s League of Reading in support of the RISE PTN. 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: May 20, 2026 RE: Vote to Accept Women’s League of Reading – Coolidge Donation Please vote to accept a donation in the amount of $500 from the Women’s League of Reading in support of the Coolidge Middle School. 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: FROM: DATE: RE: Reading School Committee Olivia Lejeune, Executive Assistant to the Superintendent May 20, 2026 Vote to Accept Women’s League of Reading – Parker Donation Please vote to accept a donation in the amount of $500 from the Women’s League of Reading in support of Parker Middle School. 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: May 20, 2026 RE: Vote to Accept Women’s League of Reading – Unified Sports Donation Please vote to accept a donation in the amount of $1,000 from the Women’s League of Reading in support of the Reading Unified Sports. 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 May 28, 2026 To: Reading School Committee From: Olivia Lejeune, Executive Assistant to the Superintendent Date: May 20, 2026 Re: SEPAC FY25 End-of-Yer Update During the May 28th School Committee Meeting, SEPAC will provide an End-of-Year update. The presentation will be posted after the meeting. 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: Dr. Thomas Milaschewski, Superintendent Date: May 20, 2026 Re: Student Services End-of-Year Update During the May 28th School Committee Meeting, we will provide a Student Services End-of-Year update. A copy of the presentation will be posted after the meeting. 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 Administrative Offices 82 Oakland Road Reading, MA 01867 781 944-5800 READING SCHOOL COMMITTEE Shawn Brandt Chair Lara Durgavich Vice-Chair Geoffrey Coram Erin Gaffen Sarah McLaughlin Thomas Wise Thomas Milaschewski, Ed.D. Superintendent of Schools TO: Reading School Committee FROM: Shawn Brandt, Reading School Committee Chair DATE: May 20, 2026 TOPIC: Discuss Superintendent Formative Review Process During the May 28 meeting, the committee will discuss the formative review process for Dr. Milaschewski. Old Business Reading Public Schools School Committee Meeting Packet May 28, 2026 TO: Reading School Committee FROM: Olivia Lejeune, Executive Assistant to the Superintendent DATE: May 20, 2026 RE: Review and Approve Membership for Facility Naming Advisory Committee (A) During the January 29 meeting, the committee approved moving the following naming request nominations forward for review by one combined advisory committee: naming the press box at John Hollingsworth Field the Ted “Ace” Bryson Press Box, and naming the RMHS Fitness Center and Training Room after Robert and O. Elizabeth Miksen. The subcommittee will conduct further study and bring a recommendation back to the School Committee. During the May 28 meeting, the committee will review and approve membership of the Facility Naming Advisory Committee as outlined in Policy FF – Naming of School Facilities. 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: May 20, 2026 Re: School Choice Update and Second Lottery Process On March 20, the district opened applications for the 2026–2027 School Choice Program, with a deadline of April 10. The district received 42 applications, of which 38 students were accepted and 33 accepted their placement. Five students later withdrew their acceptance. Four students were not accepted due to there being more applications than available seats in grades six, eight, and nine. Although there were no available seats in seventh grade, the district also received one application that could not be accommodated. School Choice is a statewide program designed to fill available seats in school districts while providing parents/guardians with greater access to desirable school systems. School Choice also supports the recruitment and retention of high-performing instructional staff by allowing children of staff members to apply for placement through the lottery process. For each School Choice student enrolled in kindergarten through grade 12, the district receives $5,000. The district may also receive special education increment funds from the sending district for School Choice students requiring those services. School Choice funds are deposited into a revolving fund under the School Committee’s purview and require no further appropriation for use. These funds may be allocated to support a wide range of district needs. Through the first lottery process, the District Leadership Team identified 47 available seats across the district using a two-tiered approach. This process began with a review of projected enrollment, followed by an evaluation of class sizes across all grade levels and schools. Seats were then allocated for School Choice based on available space. Student assignment to specific schools was determined using current enrollment numbers. As required by the state, the district will reopen the lottery annually before November for any available seats. With 33 seats filled during the first lottery process, the district will reopen most of the remaining unfilled seats, along with additional seats where applicable. Available seats have been adjusted as needed based on projected enrollment of students living in or moving into Reading who are in the process of registering for the 2026–2027 school year. A grade-specific summary of available seats for the second lottery is provided below. Applications will open on May 29, with a deadline of June 12, and the lottery process will take place on June 15. Additional information regarding the application process and guidelines can be found 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 PUBLIC SCHOOLS SCHOOL CHOICE GUIDELINES 2026-2027 SCHOOL YEAR Deadline for Application to be Submitted: Friday, June 12, 2026, at 3:00 pm Please use the following link to complete an online application for the 2026-2027 School Choice Lottery: https://forms.rediker.com/readingpublicschools. When filling out your application, you will be prompted to create an account. Once you add a new applicant, please select 'School Choice Applicant (Non-Reading Resident)' as the program selection. Please email SchoolChoiceApplication@reading.k12.ma.us with questions about completing the online application. 2026-2027 Available Seats by Grade: Reading Public Schools has determined the following openings by grade for the 2026-2027 school year based on projected enrollment figures. The Reading Public Schools will not provide transportation to School Choice students. Guardians are responsible for transporting the student to and from school. 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 Application Process: • An application is required for each student applying for admission and must be received via the online platform by the deadline of Friday, June 12, 2026, at 3:00 pm. All applications will be stamped with the date and time received. • A completed and signed application is required for each student applying for admission by the deadline date and time established. • School Choice students for the 2026-2027 school year will be chosen by lottery on Monday, June 15, 2026 at 12:00 pm in the Superintendent’s office located at 82 Oakland Road in Reading, MA and parents will be notified via email immediately following the lottery if their student has been selected. • Parents/guardians of selected students must confirm acceptance by 12:00 noon on Tuesday, June 16, 2026. • Students who enroll through School Choice will be able to continue their education in Reading Public Schools through graduation, barring disciplinary issues. Guidelines for Admitting Students: • All students who reside in Massachusetts, outside of the Town of Reading and who are entering the grade(s) specified above for the 2026-2027 school year are eligible to apply for specific seats. • The Reading Public Schools does not give preference for admission based on race, color, religious creed, national origin, sex, gender identity, age, sexual orientation, ancestry, athletic performance, physical handicap, special need, academic performance, or proficiency in the English language. • The Reading Public Schools will not provide transportation to School Choice students. Guardians are responsible for transporting the student to and from school. • Students who enroll through School Choice will be able to continue their education in Reading Public Schools through graduation, barring significant disciplinary issues. School Choice students do not reapply for admissions each subsequent year. • The application deadline is Friday, June 12, 2026, at 3:00 pm to participate in the lottery. • Once seats have been filled, applications not selected during the lottery process will be placed on a wait list in the order they were drawn. • School Choice students selected will be required to follow the Reading Public Schools registration process as defined and outlined on the RPS Registration Website. Questions about School Choice and the application process may be directed to Olivia Lejeune, via email at Olivia.Lejeune@reading.k12.ma.us. More information about School Choice may be found at: Advisory Memorandum on Financial Administration of the School Choice Program General Law - Part I, Title XII, Chapter 76, Section 12B