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October 21, 1981
A meeting of the Lexington School Committee was held Wednesday,
Jctober 21, 1981, at 8:00 p.m. , in the School Administration Build-
ing Conference Room. Present were: Gaudet, Shaw, Swanson, Beck,
Michelman, and Student Representative Splaine. Also present were:
Lawson, Pierson, Maclnnes, Monderer, DiGiammarino, and Barnes.
It was
MINUTES
VOTED: to accept the minutes of October 6, 1981, as corrected. October 6, 1981
(Swanson, Shaw, Unanimous)
EXECUTIVE
VOTED: to accept the executive minutes of October 6, 1981, as cor- MINUTES
rected. (Beck, Shaw, Unanimous) October 6, 1981
Upon the recommendation of the Superintendent of Schools, it was SCHEDULE OF
PAYMENTS
VOTED: to accept the following schedule of payments as listed on
the attached sheets. (Gaudet, Swanson, Unanimous)
The Financial Statement was discussed. FINANCIAL
STATEMENT
The Planning and Budgeting Development Guidelines for 1982-83,
which were presented at a previous School Committee meeting, were 1982-83 PLANNING
briefly reviewed. Dr. Lawson noted that the third item under'Gon- AND BUDGETING
straints" would be re-worded to read: "New employee contract set- DEVELOPMENT
Clements may affect the amount of money available for regular in- GUIDELINES
structional programs." It was the consensus of the School Committee
to proceed with the Planning and Budgeting Guidelines. Mr. Michel-
man suggested that any further comments by members should be for-
warded to the Superintendent.
Dr. Lawson stated that the topic, "Teacher Evaluation Proce- TEACHER
dures," appeared on the School Coumdttee agenda in response to the EVALUATION
request of Dr. Beck, who, being new to the Committee, wished an in- PROCEDURES
formational review of the procedures and instrument. Mr. Barnes pre-
sented an overview of the evaluation procedures and the evaluation
instrument. He commented on the role of supervisors (supplementary
and comprehensive evaluators) and administrators in the entire evalu-
ation process. Dr. Beck commented that he was personally troubled by
the refusal of the L.E.A. to participate in the evening discussion
because they felt it was a matter of collective bargaining which should
be discussed only in that setting. Dr. Beck felt that it was extremely
important to discuss substantive matters in an open and informal man-
ner without a contractual situation being involved. He further stated
that informal discussions on topics such as teacher evaluation instru-
ment and procedures were critical to the workings of an excellent school
system.
At this point, Mr. Barnes responded to questions and comments of
the School Committee. Mr. Michelman said that a concern had recently
been expressed that some material had been placed in a personnel file
without the teacher's prior knowledge. He asked if it were the proce-
dure of the administration to make copies of memoranda and files acces-
sible to teachers prior to conferences or at specified times. Mr. Barnes
responded that all correspondence placed in an employee's personnel file
Page 56
October 21, 1981
was reviewed by him and initialed. The procedures followed were con-
sistent with the Personnel Files Procedures published and disseminated
to all staff on February 2, 1981. He said that there had been a concern
expressed about a single piece of paper being placed in an individual's
file, and even though the principal felt sure that the person had re-
ceived a copy in advance, he had no way of proving that to be true. How-
ever, the person was informed that he had a right to inspect the file at
any time. Mr. Barnes responded that all staff were welcomed and encouraged
to reiiiew their files. The procedure was to give a 24-hour notice to the
Personnel Office in order to prepare the folder and arrange for an appoint-
ment.
At this point, Dr. Beck expressed his dissatisfaction with the cur-
rent evaluation forms. He said that the instruments being used were not
an objective assessment but a collection of reports which represented the
subjective impressions of various individuals in the process. Mr. Barnes
responded that it was the most objective information that the system had.
He said the instrument had been developed by the administration. He added
that the Committee of 1977-78, which consisted of teachers and administra-
tors, developed a new and improved system of teacher evaluation which had
never been implemented due to the lack of agreement by the Lexington Educa-
tion Association. He noted that the administration and the principals were
in favor of the newly developed instrument.
At this point, Dr. Lawson underscored the remarks of Mr. Barnes, noting
that he was in favor, as well as most teachers he spoke with, of the new and
improved instrument. He said a new teacher evaluation instrument was a pri-
ority for him and hopedthat the evaluation instrument as developed by a com-
mittee of teachers and administrators in the year 1977-78 be implemented as
soon as possible.
Members of the School Committee requested a copy of the new instrument.
Mr. Barnes agreed to forward copies to each member in the next agenda package.
The School Committee thanked Mr. Barnes and Dr. Lawson for the review.
Mr. Michelman, on behalf of the School Cunnnittee, said that the entire TRIBUTE TO
Committee felt great regret over the resignation of Dr. Lawson, but was cam- DR. LAWSON
forted that all Lexington citizens had benefited from his talents. He added & ACCEPTANCE
that all were filled with pride and satisfaction with his contributions to OF HIS RESIG-
Lexington and with his appointment as the new Commissioner of Education for NATION
the Commonwealth. Dr. Beck added that he was pleased for Dr. Lawson and for
the Commonwealth of Massachusetts even though none of the members wanted to
see him leave. Mrs. Swanson said that if the Superintendent did as much for
the Commonwealth as he did for Lexington, it would all be worth it. At this
point, Mrs. Swanson
MOVED: to accept Dr. Lawson's resignation and honor his request to begin his
new duties as Commissioner of Education for the Commonwealth of Mass-
achusetts as of January 1, 1982. (Swanson, Gaudet, Unanimous)
Upon the recommendation of the Superintendent of Schools, it was PERSONNEL
CHANGES
VOTED: to accept the personnel changes (Certified and Classified) as listed
on the attached sheets. (Swanson, Gaudet, Unanimous) CERTIFIED &
CLASSIFIED
Page 57
October 21, 1981
VOTED: to accept the personnel changes (Classified) as listed on the CLASSIFIED
attached sheets. (Beck, Gaudet, Unanimous)
VOTED: to accept the personnel changes (Food Services) as listed on FOOD SERVICES
the attached sheet.
Upon the recommendation of the Superintendent of Schools, it was
VOTED: to accept the new personnel as listed on the attached sheet. NEW PERSONNEL
(Swanson, Gaudet, Unanimous)
Upon the recommendation of the Superintendent of Schools, it was
LEGAL COUNSEL FEE
VOTED: that Alan Miller, Esquire, be awarded a retainer in the amount
of $8,500 per year to serve as Legal Counsel to the Lexington
School Committee for the period July 1, 1981, through June 30,
1983. (Swanson, Shaw, Unanimous)
Upon the recommendation of the Superintendent of Schools, it was WAIVER REQUEST
VOTED: that the Lexington Public Schools request a waiver of provi-
sions of Section 38G of Chapter 71 Certification as listed on
the attached sheet.
Upon the recommendation of the Superintendent of Schools, it was
EXTRA DUTY
VOTED: that the following extra duty stipends be awarded as indicated STIPENDS
for the following named personnel on the attached sheet for the
school year 1981-82. (Shaw, Beck, Unanimous)
Mr. Barnes presented a report of class sizes for Kindergarten, CLASS SIZES
Grades 1-6, 7-9, and 10-12. He briefly reviewed each of the class
sizes per level. He said the average class size for 1981-82 was as
follows: Kindergarten - 16 students, Grades 1-6 - 23 students, Junior
High School - 20 students, and the High School - 22 students.
Dr. Beck stated the class size information was excellent and class
sizes were as close to optimal as possible. Mrs. Swanson added that
class sizes were more equitable due to school consolidation, which was
one of the goals of the school closing program.
At this point, Dr. Clune reviewed the class sizes of fewer than
15 students and those greater than 30 students. He said that the merits
of keeping additional students in the over-enrolled sections outweighed
the disadvantages of changing schedules and refusing their selection of
teachers. However, he added that students could be accommodated if they
requested a change.
Dr. Lawson stated that the class size report appeared every year
at this time, but, unfortunately, by the time the figures were ready
for review, little could be done to make significant changes. He sug-
gested that it might be possible for the computer to run the material
through early in the school year. Frank DiGiammarino, Administrative
Assistant for Planning and Research, said that early computer runs could
be reviewed with possible recommendations being made at a later date.
The School Committe thanked Mr. Barnes and principals for the informa-
Page 58
October 21, 1981
tion on class sizes.
It was TOWN CELEBRATIONS
COMMITTEE REQUEST
VOTED: to permit the Town Celebrations Committee to use school grounds
for the assembly of individuals who wished to participate in
the Veterans' Day Parade. (Gaudet, Beck, Unanimous)
VOTED: to convene in executive session at 9:58 p.m. to discuss matters
pertaining to collective bargaining. (Yes, Beck; yes, Shaw;
yes, Swanson; yes, Gaudet; yes, Michelman)
The Chairman announced that the School Committee would not be re-
convening in public session.
Respectfully submitted,
L 7'L' J/e2k-E-4---_,._--
Richard H. Barnes
Recording .Secretary
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SCHEDULE OF PAYMENTS
The following schedules of payments were available for scrutiny and approval
prior to this meeting:
SCHOOL DEPARTMENT BUDGETS
Personal Services
October ':2, 1981 Professional Payroll #7 $453,689.35
October j9, 1981 Classified Payroll #8C 72,297.91
Expenses:
October :9, 1981 Bill Schedules ';47 17,205.65
October 9, 1981 #48 8,000.38
October 9, 1981 #49 66,597.26
October 9, 1981 #50 155.61
October 9, 1981 x`51 17,459. 27
October 9, 1981 #52 24, 175.38
October 9, 1981 #53 3,436.49
October 9, 1981 #54 43.20
October 16, 1981 155 1,664 . 15
October 116, 1981 #56 3,732. 99
October 16, 1981 #57 5,422, 26
October 16 , 1981 #58 4,070.38
Expenses (Carryover Account)
October 9, 1981 Bill Schedule #310 1,185.50
Expenses (Out-of-State Travel)
October 16, 1981 Bill Schedule #1 235. 70
SPECIAL PROGRAMS - NON-LEXINGTON FUNDS
Metco' Program
October 2, 1981 Professional Payroll 5,086.21
October 9, 1981 Classified Payroll 2,449.55
October 9, 1981 Bill Schedule #32 62.30
Project Mainstream
October 2, 1981 Professional Payroll 672. 79
Transition to Employment
October 2, 1981 Professional Payroll 902.35
October 9, 1981 Classified Payroll 637.88
Adult Education
October 9, 1981 Classified Payroll 27.60
Project Discover
October 2, 1981 ' Professional Payroll 921. 94
--- Project Assist
Ch-tober 2, 1981 Professional Payroll 522.50
(Over)
D
.roject Enhance
Octobet 2, 1981 Professional Payroll $595.38
October 9, 1981 Classified Payroll 529.90
Bus Ticket Account
October 9, 1981 Bill Schedule #1 1, 144.90
Pro;ec't Combine
October 9, 1981 Bill Schedule 26.00
r ,
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SII
it
PERSONNEL CHANGES - CERTIFIED
CHANGE EFFECTIVE DATE OF RETIREMENT
RESCIND COACHING APPOTNT[ENT
DEGREE CHANGE
--
1
PERSONNEL CHANGES - CERTIFIED
LEAVE:
YRS, IF LEXINGTON EFFECTIVE
)
d
r'I
PERSONNEL CHANCES - FOOD SERVICES
RETIRE€NT
YRS. IN LEXINGTON EFFECTIVE
Virginia L. Maroney
NEW PERSON-NEL
SECO:TDARY
NAME SCHOOL/SUBJECT EDUCATION EXPERIENCE
TO: Dr. Lawson
FROM: R. H. Barnes
SUBJECT: Waiver Request
Please recommend to the School Committee at its meeting of
October 21, 1981 that we request a waiver of the provisions of Section 38G
of Chapter 71 of the General Laws in order to employ a staff member.
. s
COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS_
1
DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION - DIVISION OF SPECIAL EDUCATION
WAIVER REQUEST FORM: PROFESSIONAL PERSONNEL FOR SPECIAL EDUCATION
TO: Regional Office of the Division of Special Education
FROM: Local School District DATE August 25, 1981
G.L. 718, Chapter 766 Regulations , Paragraph 1005.0
This is to certify that great hardship exists in securing a qualified person for
the position of (check one only) :
in Administrator of Special Education
M, Generic Special Education Teacher oy School Aye Children
with Mild Special Needs
XII Teacher of School Age Children with Modc.3ce S;.-tial
needs'
JInstructor of School Age Children with C• vere Special
needs
ni Teacher of School Age Children with Sensory Handicaps :
Vision
riTeacher of School Age Children with Sensory handicaps:
Audition
Ij Teacher of Young Children with Special Needs.
Therefore, the LEXINGTON School Committee, because of its
inability to employ a qualified teacher, and after being notified by the
Superintendent of Schools , chat all reasonable efforts had been made to
recruit for that position voted at its meeting of October 21 , 1981 to request
date
•
a waiver of the provisions of Section 1005.0 of the Chapter 766 Regulations
requiring employment of approved personnel , in order that it may employ:
In said position for the academic year 1981-1°52 or any part thereof.
•
•
•
•
Thi'.s persgn has:
Filed an' application for Approval with support documentation on (date) .
Completed application with support material is attached hereto. (If possible,
this is the preferableprocedure for initial waiver request. )
This person is:
X .Currently enrolled in a special education teacher traieing program at
Northeastern University , and expects to complete all
components or this program and qua i y or approval by 1984 (date) .
g
(Official validation from the college or uni ,fersity should oe suomitted. )
This is the:
x First waiver request
•
Second waiver request
Third waiver request
•
(Applications for 2nd b 3ra request: must have evidence of substantial progress
attached) .
•
This form must be accompanied by:
•
I ) Evidence of what steps the school system has taken to find a qualified
and approved teacher. (e. g. advertisements , placement office listings, etc. )
..) ' A statement indicating how many people' applied for the position, how many
of these had the appropriate approval , and why these approved candidates
were rejected.
LEXINGTON October 21, 1981
Ste attire or Superintendent Loos cnool District —gate
1257 NASS4�,Ck�1USETTS rVENUE, LEXINGTON MASSACHUSETTS021 3_.
Ac'r e s s ...
PLEASE FORWARD THIS MATERIAL TO THE REGIONAL SPECIAL EDUCATION DIRECTOR,
DIVISION OF SPECIAL EDUCATION , DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION , IN YOUR REGION.
OFFICE USE ONLY
I
o-recommend tnat Favorable action be taken - tnis _o__es:.
co not recommend that favorable action oe taken onthis -ec eSt.
ti n i comments may be attached on a separate sreet if cesiret )
f � O a �.
HCq Y
S gnature of Regional Special Education Director Date
Regional Special Education Director
Please return this form to;
Director
Bureau of Teacher ,Preoaratien , Certification and Placement
7/81
- EXTRA DUTY STIPENDS - 781-1982*
SCHOOL NAMESTIPEND FOR: AMOUNT_
`Stipend to be paid at the successful completion of the activity or the school
year, 1981-1982.
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