HomeMy WebLinkAbout1975-02-07-SC-min Page 39
February 7, 1975
The regular meeting of the Lexington School Committee came to order at 1:00 p.m
at the school administration building. Present were Mrs. Berchtold, Mrs. Swanson,
Mrs. Davison (arrived at 4:10 p.m.) , Mr. Rotberg and Mr. Wadsworth. Also present
were Mr. Barnes, Mr. Maclnnes, Mr. Spiris, Dr. Monderer and. Dr. Fobert.
Beginning with account 2300, all accounts through Maintenance were discussed.
Highlights of the review are as follows:
2300 - Teaching Supplies THE BUDGET
Dr. Fobert stated that he recommended a figure of $10.75 per pupil which was
25% lower than the principals had requested. He felt that eventhough there was
a study done by principals, his figure was more reflective due to information
which he had at his disposal.
Mr. Rotberg asked what the impact would be if teachers were permitted to use funds
as they desired. Dr. Fobert replied that, in a way, they do so now. Each principal
receives an amount and teachers can spend it as they see fit with final discretion
resting with the principal. The superintendent's remarks were made in respect
to the 19 accounts determined by per pupil expenditures. Mr. Rotberg also asked
for a clarification of the text book policy. The superintendent stated that there
is no systemwide regulation regarding text book replacement. Mrs. Berchtold asked
"Who keeps tabs on text book ordering and sharing?" The superintendent replied
that teachers, principals and specialists all keep tabs on the books and texts and
these are updated periodically. Mrs. Berchtold then made a statement regarding
sex stereotyping in books. She felt that rather than to eliminate present books,
our staff should be made aware of the situation and provide in-service training
for staff. They could make better use of present materials as well as purchase
more appropriate materials. Mrs. Swanson asked Mr. MacInnes to review the concept
of central storage and supply with Brookline Public School officials.
2300-6bs - Travel within the district
A proposed change for travel within the district will include an increase from 100
to 120 to be consistent with present town reimbursement for employees.
2300 -St Teaching supplies
Mr. Rotberg asked for a resume of tests in the account. Dr. Monderer listed the
following: the vocabulary and reading comprehension sector of Iowa Tests of
Basic Skills (Gr. 3,5, and 7) ; Comprehensive Test of Basic Skills (Cr. 2,4,6,8) ;
a short form of California Tests for Mental Maturity; Academic Aptitude Tests;
Scott-Foresman Reading Test. A discussion of the WISC test needs followed.
Dr. Monderer noted that the Comprehensive Test of Basic Skills is used to give
ideas on progress of basic skills; the individual intelligence test is used for
projecting the potential and in some cases, the identification of learning problems.
2300 - 12 - 5 - Teaching supplies - special class
It was noted that this account is for the use of special education teachers. However,
principals can use it for other school needs if no expenditure is made by special
class teachers.
2300 - 5b - Drivers Education
It was noted that Lexington Public Schools will pay for gas, oil and the coordinator's
salary and the students will pay for behind-the-wheel and classroom instruction. A
review of this account will be made at another time.
Page LO
February 7, 1975
2300 - 5c - Homemaking supplies
After this account was discussed, it was agreed that users would be listed in
this and other accounts when possible since it gives a clearer reading.
2300 - 5d - Industrial Arts supplies
This account was reviewed with reference to the influence of ?INRVTS. It was
felt that MM would not affect the account but Chapter 622 recommendations and
student selections will increase involvement and costs in the future.
2300- 5e - Physical Education
This will be discussed on 2/10/75
2300-6a Other Expenses
This will be discussed on 2/11/75
2300 - 6b2 - Travel within the district
Suggestions were made by Mrs. Swanson that scheduling improvements should be
considered inorder to reduce this account. Increase to 120 per mile was noted
and recommended in order to be consistent with present town reimbursement.
2500 -5a - Library books and catalogs
Mrs. Swanson asked what had been spent in each library over the past five years.
She asked if a master list existed. The response by the superintendent was
affirmative noting that Ms. Jaffarian keeps a town-wide list. The committee
requested a report on losses and utilization of library books. Mrs. Swanson
questioned the necessity to keep purchasing books at the same rate as before
since the libraries are well stocked. She noted that she would make a MOTION
at a future meeting to decrease the amount in the account. Mr. Rotberg felt
that we should have an outside evaluation of our libraries by an accredited group.
2500 - 5b - Periodicals and Newspapers
Following a discussion, it was MOVED to reduce the Professional Library periodical
purchases account to $500 (Rotberg, Berchtold seconded) . At this point, the
committee recommended tabling the MOTION until further information can be obtained.
A vote to Table was called. (Swanson, Wadsworth, Berchtold YES, Rotberg, NO)
2500 -5a - Film Rentals
The committe asked if film acquisitions were advertised throughout the system
in order to take advantage of the rental. It was answered that short term rentals
are not advertised although others are.
2800-L - Special Testing
Replying to a question by Mr. Rotberg, Dr. Monderer said the amount of money used
for WISC testing is $11,000.
3200-6 - Travel Expense
An increase of 100 to 120 per mile will be given to Nurses for travel within the
town.
Page 41
February 7, 19'
3370 - Transportation
This will be discussed at the 2/10/75 meeting.
It was
VOTED: To move to Executive Session at 4:56 p.m. to discuss a personnel matter.
(Rotberg, Swanson, Unanimous)
Res,ctfully suub/mittted,
Richard H. Barnes