Minutes 2014-07-08.pdf - Laserfiche WebLink

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Kathleen Smith,a member of the Early Education and Care program,spoke on behalf of AnnMarie Merrill and herself. They are concerned that the Early Education and Care program was not in the plan for a 628 student school. She noted that there is a push for Early Education,and that they have ideas for sustaining the program,and suggested that they meet with the Administration before any final decisions are made. Referring to current enrollment numbers, School Committee member Dave Manjarrez voiced his concern that these two programs are being questioned in the 628 size school,as they are viable programs,sustainable with member towns. Additionally,he expressed that with regard to the discussion about his emails,he has a right to freedom of speech and that he is protected under the Whistleblower Act of Massachusetts. 3. CHAIR'S REPORT a. School Committee Correspondence by Email The Chair explained that this item was brought up at the last meeting,and had not been on the agenda. She further explained that last July,the School Committee agreed not to communicate by email to avoid OML violations,as urged by Attorney General Hanna Rush. The Vice-Chair concurred,noting that the issue is"freedom of speech"vs. OML violation.He stressed a concern for lack of professionalism,and Mr.Manjarrez referred to the School Committee Meeting Norms posted on the wall. The Chair suggested that rather than fight over this,the goal is to find a solution.The member from Acton suggested that the Assistant could forward to all,or send out in the packet; she also urged that the School Committee members need to model appropriate group behavior and adhere to rules that are agreed to. The member from Boxborough pointed out that her town officials have requested a"Cease and Desist"with the email correspondence that the AG has advised is s violation of the OML. Mr.Manjarrez expressed his view that after being on the School Committee for 6 years,the tone has been to"go along to get along",instead of asking questions and getting answers. He expressed that he has not received answers,and that he can't and will not accept this. Other members expressed frustration with what they perceived as irresponsible behavior on his part. He urged that if the School Committee is not happy about it,they can file an OML violation; and that he would file against himself. Others concurred.He agreed with the member from Acton,and would request that the Assistant distribute information. He asked about turn-around time; the Chair suggested that procedures for distribution would need to be adhered to. b. District Goals 2014-15 The Chair presented the Draft District Goals 2014-15,as included in the packet. She explained that some members had submitted suggestions,and the Officers met to discuss these suggestions. A motion was made(Spalding)and seconded(Stulin)to approve these goals as presented. The discussion involved whether these goals were specific enough,that the Superintendent will develop his goals from these,with more specificity. Item 1 c.was pointed out as important,since there may not be a building project,and that this offers a"Plan B". An amendment was offered (Spalding)and seconded(Banks)to this item,and the issue of capping the figure was discussed. The following vote was then taken: ACTION 2014#73 Moved(Spalding)and seconded(Banks) To amend item lc.of the Draft District Goals 2014-15 to read: As an alternative to the Building Project,develop a Repair and Maintenance/Capital Plan for sequential projects in the$500,000 and up range to ensure safety of students,including possible code requirements such as ADA compliance and educational requirements. Vote: 9 in favor,3 opposed(with 12 members present) The Chair took the opportunity to welcome the new representative from Arlington. [Ms.Taylor arrived at approximately 6:30 PM.] The lack of specificity,measurement,and deadlines on these goals was discussed.It was pointed out that the Officers had discussed this,and thought that the Superintendent's goals will provide more specificity as a measure of evaluation,and that approval of his goals is on the schedule for the fall. Avoiding a micromanaging approach, sorting out the various roles,the many working parts, and the evolving process over the years related to goals were discussed.It was suggested that the Officers could appoint School Committee members to get involved to outline specifics on all of the goals. An amendment was made(Banks)and seconded(Manjarrez)to add an item 6 to the list that responsible parties will provide measures for goal achievement,as a basis for evaluation,with a reporting mechanism by October,2014. The following vote was then taken: