HomeMy WebLinkAbout2010-11-06 School Committee MinutesReading Public Schools
Reading, Massachusetts
Regular Meeting of the School Committee
Open Session
Date: November 6, 2010
Time: 9:00 a.m. (Open Session)
Place: Superintendent's Conference Room
School Committee Members Present
Chuck Robinson
Chris Caruso
David Michaud
Karen Janowski
Lisa Gibbs
Matthew Conway Student Representative
Visitors:
Staff Members Present
John Doherty, Superintendent
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1. Call to Order
Chairperson Caruso called the meeting to order at 9:03 a.m. and reviewed the procedures for the
presentations of nominations for the naming of facilities.
He said that the School Committee would listen to the presentations and ask clarifying questions as
needed. The committee would not be acting on the nominations today.
The School Committee will have discussion and make decisions and vote the proposals to moved
forward at the November 23`d meeting.
11. Recommended Procedure
A. Public Input (I)
B. Continued Business
Nomination Presentations
1. John Holligsworth Field
Pill Kelly and Pete 11,111oscariello spoke on. behalf of the Hollingworth nomination.
Mr. Kelly pointed out 4 attributes possessed by Mr. Hollingsworth that contributed to his
success as a teacher, coach and role model. He was a successful coach for a long time, a
positive role model and motivator, an integral part of the community and the man
himself.
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Mr. Moscariello pointed out that Coach Hollingsworth is a man of great character that
had major positive influence on young people. He was able to bring out the best in
everyone. Mr. Moscariello also stated that Mr. Hollingsworth was a teach first then a
coach.
Others in attendance to support this nomination were Kathy Olson, Ken Olson, Bill
Carroll, John O'Keefe and Jack Kelly.
2. William Endslow Performing Arts Center
Bob Beckman presented the information regarding this nomination. He indicated that
consideration should be given next year after Mr. Endslow retires.
He reviewed Mr. Endslow's career and contributions to the Reading Public Schools and
the students of Reading. Through theatre Mr. Endslow has nurtured tolerance,
acceptance and respect. His motto "There is a place for everyone in drama" are words he
lives by finding a position or job for anyone that would like to participate.
Over the years the drama performances have brought the community together in all ways,
most recently with the production of the Laramie Project. He is also a positive influence
on students.
Others in attendance to support this nomination were students: Courtney Gingras, Emma
Soucy, Matt Conway, Mark Mauriello, PSST officers: Patty Beckman, Jeff Camenker,
and Lori Vinciguerra as well as parent Margo Popken.
Veterans Memorial and Hal Croft Athletic Stadium
Joe Connelly presented this nomination. Mr. Croft is a highly decorated war veteran and
highly successful teacher and coach. Mr. Connelly pointed out that Mr. Croft lead by
example teaching his teams to win and loss with dignity. His 40 years with one district is
unheard of in this day and age.
Others in attendance for this nomination were Lorraine Horn, Dave Williams and Bob
Rittenberg.
4. Hal Croft Track
Phil Vaccaro outlined the reasons he made this nomination. He indicated that Mr. Croft
was a teacher first. He feels that Mr. Croft as well as the other men nominated are
legends.
5. Thomas Damn Wrestling Room
Mr. Vaccaro also spoke on behalf of the nomination for the Wrestling Room. Mr. Darrin
taught and coached in Rea&ig for over 30 years. He instilled sportsmanship, values and
character in his students and athletes.
November 6, 2010
Mr. Moscariello added that Mr. Darrin is truly a man of quiet dignity and integrity.
6. Charlotte Harlan Library or Playground at Barrows
7. Cutcliffe Field
Priscilla Poehler and Linda Poehler spoke on behalf of this nomination. Mr. Cutcliffe
was a long time Reading resident that took the lessons he learned growing up here with
him in later life. He feels everyone is important. He ran a successful business using the
principles he learned growing up in Reading.
Patrick A. Schettini, Jr. Library Media Center
Linda Snow Dockser outlined her nomination of the Library Media Center. Mr. Schettini
had a passion for Reading and the education of its kids. He was a true motivator and
spearheaded several initiatives. She outlined the road that brought Mr. Schettini back to
Reading. His goal was to involve all stakeholders in whatever the initiative was, making
sure it was in the best interest of kids. He had the ability to make you think outside the
box and infused 21 st century skills in all areas of teaching and learning.
9. Patrick A. Schettini, Jr. Performing Arts Center
Elise Lapham shared her nomination with the School Committee. She said the Mr.
Schettini was a wonderful man/educator and that the town was lucky to have his as part
of the community. He oversaw the building project and feels that he should be honored
as part of this wonderful facility.
10. Kevin M. McCarthy
Jim Dwyer shared his nomination indicating that Mr. McCarthy was his cousin and a
graduate of RMHS. Mr. McCarthy lost his life in the twin towers on 9/11. Mr. Dwyer
offered that a Memorial Garden be created in the front of the high school. He indicated
that he will coordinate the fundraising and has a friend that will develop a sketch of the
proposed area. He requested, if this should be moved ahead, it be dedicated in 2011.
11. Phil Vaccaro Field
Pete Moscariello spoke on behalf of this nomination. He outlined Mr. Vaccaro's career
in Reading. He is a humble man who credits his coaches, students and parents. He
instills in the athletes and coaches that it is not all about the wins and losses - character
and sportsmanship are important in the development of our young people.
P&. Caruso thanks everyone for the input provided today on behalf of the School Com-mittee. He
outlined the next steps in the process. The School Committee would review and vote to move
, rd
forward nominations at the November 2)
meeting.
November 6, 2010
III. Adjournment
Mr. Robinson moved, seconded by Mr. Michaud to adiourn. The motion carried 5-0
Meeting adjourned at 10:35 a.m.
NOTE: The minutes reflect the order as stated in the posted meeting agenda not the order they
occurred during the meeting.
John F. Doherty, Ed.D
Superintendent of Schools