2019-01-25-BRIDGE-min - Laserfiche WebLink

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What challenges do we see at Bridge?A parent said that there's academic support for kids with conditions like ADHD but the social supports aren't there. This is not specific for Bridge; rather, it's more of a broader educational issue. Strategies to address this challenge were brainstormed. Meg talked about peer meditators run by Heather O'Rourke, one of our social workers, and its impact on strengthening relationships. It could be a model for this issue. Dr. Hackett was asked if anything surprised her about her new role at LPS. She said that people had warned her about"Lexington parents"—that they are tough to work with-but she has found that parents here are hugely supportive and she's very thankful for that. Later, she added that the state of the high school building had surprised her; it's not at the condition that she had expected. Another challenge that was raised is that there are many cultures in Lexington and yet those who show up in the room for school activities/events don't reflect that diversity. We're not doing as a good job reaching all of the communities within Lexington. Dr. Hackett referenced the work Deirdre Schadler and her colleagues have undertaken to better understand the cultural needs and perspectives of those in Lexington. It's a huge asset that we have this diversity in our town.We need to invite these communities into the conversation and learn about their needs and priorities, and find ways to make sure they are welcome here in Lexington. Parents need to also informally reach out and connect with new families and invite them to participate. For example,that's how ELL families got involved with EcoBridge.A parent reached out specifically to them to engage them in activities, and they are an important part of that program's success.We also need to offer programming/events that have widespread appeal. For example, last week's Math Night had wide attendance from many cultural groups. Dr. Hackett was asked about the status of the high school. She said she is currently writing a statement of interest for the high school renovation project. The statement then goes to school committee and selectman next month before it is submitted to the state. If we're invited into the evaluation process,there's a year of a feasibility study. During this time, Lexington is studied to see if it would be best to renovate the high school or build something new. Our enrollment numbers are going way up.We have 2,300 students now at LHS, and are expecting to go up to 2,600 in next four to five years. The process to get state contribution to a building project is competitive. For example, Burlington submitted its seventh statement of purpose and got denied for the seventh year in a row. Dr. Hackett said she's hopeful but it all depends on who else submits. Boston is in the game now, and they may be a higher priority. Other options are to be fiscally prudent and use all of the space we can efficiently, or even to privately fund a new high school (e.g., residents fully pay for construction). Dr. Hackett said redistricting will happen after new Hastings is opened and that it will alleviate some of the pressure on school overcrowding. On a related note, Meg reported that Bridge is slated to receive a new roof in a year. 2