FINAL OS SC Mtg Minutes 2017-10-17.pdf

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#2 Professional Practice: Legislative Engagement The Superintendent reported that on September 29, 2017,he had a breakfast meeting with the Legislators here at Minuteman to discuss a number of items including the building project, legislative priorities (including Ch. 74 regulations), and enabling legislation related to campus development. He explained that Peter Kochansky(Goulston&Storrs) spoke about how they have been discussing various models related to the enabling legislation, and that a special act, specific for this District only, is a first step. The Superintendent explained that with regard to the Ch. 74 discussion,Representative Jay Kaufman and Senator Jamie Eldridge expressed interest in being involved, and he has been in discussion with Representative Kaufman about strategies for reaching out to DESE on the matter. Representative Kaufman has arranged a meeting at DESE on October 30, 2017 with Acting Commissioner Wulfson, Cliff Chuang and Jessica Leitz to discuss Minuteman and the regulatory changes. The Superintendent informed the school committee that Goulston& Storrs is considering being involved on a pro bono basis. Additionally, he reported that Senator Cindy Friedman came to the meeting on 9.29 and visited the school the next day. He noted that he was pleased to see her support of Minuteman. The member from Belmont suggested that a new subcommittee be established specific to legislative engagement. The Chair indicated he will take it under advisement at the Officers Meeting. The member from Belmont also suggested that School Committee members could take the time to introduce themselves to their legislators. The Superintendent pointed out that a current list of Senators and Representatives has been created; Ms. Rozan will distribute. The member from Stow referenced an article related to the value of vocational education in light of current issues facing racial minorities in education. #3 District Improvement: Increasing Membership The Superintendent reported that on October 11,he met with the Watertown Superintendent of Schools and the Watertown Business Manager to discuss the process and steps for joining. They discussed budget, transportation, a projected 5 year cost, and the general benefits that come with joining the District, such as the potential campus development, access to post grad programs, community education, and rental facilities at a reduced rate. He explained that the Watertown Superintendent agreed to continue the consideration and move the process forward,and that they will meet again to discuss next steps when the time is right. He stressed the importance of an MoU and of providing continuous access to students. The member from Belmont speculated that the Belmont Superintendent may be open to a conversation as well,given Watertown's positive consideration. The Superintendent explained he has a meeting planned with member town superintendents on 10.20.17 to keep them up-to-date with the construction project,to discuss enrollment access, capital costs, and budget matters. 6. SCHOOL BUILDING COMMITTEE REPORT a. School Building Committee Update Mr. Spalding reported that after an extensive cost reconciliation process,verifying that the project is on time and on budget,the 90%documents were submitted to MSBA earlier today, and the 100%documents will be sent in mid-November. The steelwork will begin December 1. In response to a question,he confirmed that segregated permitting is allowed, and that all permits needed at this point are in place. The Superintendent further explained that after the 100%documents are sent to MSBA,the team will begin the process of applying for the building permit,which is the last permit needed.The Chair extended appreciation to everyone for getting these permits in place. Mr. Spalding suggested that he will have Tripp McElroy from Gilbane give a presentation to the School Committee next time for a progress report. The member from Bolton wondered about visual documentation in real time to keep the students engaged in the project. Time lapse photography, live cameras,pictures from the roof, and security cameras were discussed. Mr. Spalding pointed out that he receives regular photo updates from the project manager. Some 3