2018-09-07-LHRC-min - Laserfiche WebLink

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Detective Evelyn stated he is the only male African American and there is one African American female on the force. Anyone can take the test, but the background test is a bit more rigorous, so difficult to field candidates. Detective Evelyn has 22 kids in a youth program, Law Enforcement Explores, he is trying to get the METCO kids into the program, but transportation is an issue. A possibility was raised of reaching out to the Family and Friends program. Of the 20+ kids in the program only about 5 state they are interested in becoming a police officer. There is also a two-week summer program. Ages 14-20 for any interested in police work. Program $220, purchase uniforms etc. A suggestion was also made to have the Police come to Career Day at LHS. Citizens Academy—reaching out to residents to learn more about government. Get involved might lead to possible job openings. Additional suggestions included posting on Mass Diversity and on Multicultural Center websites to encourage diversity recruitment practices, post at colleges with diverse populations. A comment was made that many studies have proven that towns that have engaged multi-cultural centers have much more diverse representation. Maybe considering a multicultural center would be helpful for the town of Lexington. Please send your thoughts to the Chair who will forward to Mrs. Kostos. Working with New LPS Superintendent—Ms. Brodner and Mrs. Huang met with our new superintendent to discuss a variety of issues including the Disparity in Discipline Survey and School Committee Presentation. The initial meeting was very positive. Majority of the discussion was Black and IEP student discipline concerns. Ms. Brodner noted that Category 18, or non-mandatory, suspensions now need to be cleared through the Superintendent. The superintendent is looking for someone to come in for an Equity Audit, where a third party comes in and looks at treatment within the system, as an outside party. The Superintendent is presenting at the September 25th School Committee meeting, and will be invited to present to the LHRC in Oct. It appears that her topic will cover "Where we are, where we want to go, how do we get there." Mrs. Huang said equity audit action plan and time line is encouraging because it seems quick and responsive. A brief discussion was had about who will be appointed to sit on the LHRC for the schools. Is the civil rights coordinator for LPS the best choice, perhaps a principal or district staff? In the end it is the Superintendents decision to choose someone an executive level member of the School Administration. A suggestion was made that a set of skills or desired traits for the position be mentioned. Reports and Updates on Human Rights Related Incidents and Programs from Committee Members Charlotte Rodgers introduced new town employee Tony Serio (Social Worker) ---- She also announced and sent around flyers for "What you Need to Know About Vaping & E- Cigarettes." October 17th, 7:00-9:00 pm Cary Hall. 1625 MASSACHUSETTS AVENUE•LEXINGTON,MASSACHUSETTS 02420