Town of Reading Massachusetts
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2017 Annual Report o y oexegd 2017 Annual Report
39' INCOR4p4 Table of Contents
PAGE( S)
2017 YEAR IN REVIEW
Town Manager Annual Letter & Table of Organization...... 4
ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES DEPARTMENT Boardof Selectmen...... 8 TownCounsel ...... 10 TownClerk ...... 1 1 Human Resources ...... 12 Technology & Operations ...... 13
PUBLIC SERVICES DEPARTMENT PlanningDivision ...... 16 Metro North Regional Housing Services Office (MNRHSO)...... 16 Metropolitan Area Planning Council ( MAPC) ...... 17 North Suburban Planning Council (NSPC) ...... 17 Conservation Division ...... 18 Historic District Commission ...... 19 Historical Commission...... 19 Inspections Division & Zoning Board of Appeals ...... 22 Elder/Human Services Division ...... 24 Health...... 29 Recreation Division ...... 33 Veterans' Services Division ...... 34 Mystic Valley Elder Services ...... 35 TrailsCommittee ...... 36
FINANCE DEPARTMENT Assessing ...... 38 Treasurer/ Collector...... 39 General...... 40
Board of Assessors ...... 41
2 PUBLIC SAFETY FireDepartment ...... 44 FireRoster...... 51 PoliceDepartment ...... 52 AnimalControl ...... 60 Parking Enforcement Officer ...... 60 Public Safety Dispatch ...... 61 PoliceRoster ...... 62 Reading Coalition Against Substance Abuse ( RCASA) ...... 65
PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT
Director' s Report...... 70 Administration Division ...... 72 CemeteryDivision ...... 72
Custodian of Soldiers' and Sailors' Graves ...... 73 Engineering Division ...... 73 HighwayDivision ...... 80 Forestry Division: Tree Warden' s Report ...... 81 ParksDivision ...... 81 Water/Sewer Division...... 82
READING PUBLIC LIBRARY Report ...... 86
HOUSING AUTHORITY Report ...... 92
SCHOOL DEPARTMENT School Committee Report ...... 102
Superintendent' s Report ...... 104 Individual School Reports...... 109 Northeast Metropolitan Regional Vocational School ...... 160
BOARDS, COMMITTEES AND COMMISSIONS Report ...... 171
APPENDIX A. Election Results...... 181 B. Annual Town Meeting Warrant and Minutes...... 191 C. Subsequent Town Meeting Warrant and Minutes...... 334 D. Financial Statements...... 398
3 Dear Fellow Reading Residents,
The Town of Reading Annual Report covering calendar year 2017 is attached. This report both summarizes and provides great detail for many Town activities during the year.
Economic Development In October, Reading hosted an Economic Development Summit in our beautifully renovated Public Library. Jay Ash, Secretary of Housing and Economic Development for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, congratulated the Town for stringing together years of thoughtful planning efforts, and cited Reading as a model community that he often describes as he tours the state.
The Summit in many ways served as the capstone to our recent years of Policy ( 2014), Finances 2015) and Operations ( 2016) work. The Town announced to a room full of developers, financiers and peer community representatives that " Reading is Open for Business!' Improvements included a streamlined permitting process along with robust software, user friendly modern zoning bylaws, and a Board of Selectmen committed to walk the line of neighborhood concerns and development in an open and honest manner.
Town Meeting Expands Downtown 40R Smart Growth District In the spring of 2017, Annual Town Meeting got things rolling by overwhelmingly voting to expand the 40R district to the easterly side of Main Street and south to the far side of the train tracks, as shown below:
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4 pua Redevelopment results were almost immediate, as the list below describes:
Schoolhouse Commons: a 20-unit multifamily residential rental housing project at 172 Woburn Street (next to St. Agnes Catholic Church) to be built under MGL Chapter 40B was approved by the Reading Zoning Board ofAppeals during the summer 2017 after about a six month public process. Full project details may be found on the Town' s website under the Planning division, at this link: https:// www.readingma.gov/public-services/planning-division/pages/schoolhouse- commons- 40b
Reading Village: a 68-unit multifamily residential rental project at 31- 41 Lincoln Street and 2- 12 Prescott Street (near the train depot) to be built under MGL Chapter 40B was approved by the Reading Zoning Board ofAppeals during the winter 2017 also after about a one year public process. Full project details may befound here: https:// www.readingma.gov/planning-division/pages/ reading-village
Postmark Square: a mixed use project to be built under MGL Chapter 40R, consisting of 50 condominium (for sale) units and approximately 8,500 square feet of commercial space at 136 Haven Street and 0 Sanborn Street ( the former Post Office site) was approved by the Reading Community Planning and Development Commission during the early Fall 2017 after a public process that took the better part of one year because offederal historic requirements. Full project details may befound here: https:// www.readingma.gov/planning-division/community-planning-and-development- commission/pages/postmark-square- 136-haven-st
20-24 Gould Street: a mixed use project built under MGL Chapter 40R, consisting ofa 55 rental units and approximately 3, 500 square feet of commercial space at 20 and 24 Gould Street ( the former EMARC building) was approved by the Reading Community Planning and Development Commission during the late fall 2017 after a public process that required about 4 months because ofhistoric requirements. Full project details may befound here: https:// www.readingma.gov/planning-division/community-planning-and-development- commission/pages/ 20-24-gould-street
467 Main Street: a mixed use project to be built under MGL Chapter 40R, consisting of 31 rental units and approximately 2, 500 square feet of commercial space at 467 Main Street ( the former Sunoco gas station) was approved by the Reading Community Planning and Development Commission during the winter 2018 after a public process that took 4 months. Full project details may be found here: https:// www.readingma.gov/planning-division/community-planning-and-development- commission/pages/ 467-main-street
Our Assessors conservatively estimate that projects underway will add $ 1 million to our tax base. In addition, the small-town feel of the downtown was enhanced by two smaller projects as CaM Nero and Whitelam Books redeveloped space and now seem as if they have been there all along, comfortably, for many years. As some of these larger downtown housing projects are completed, the additional residents are bound to boost retail and restaurant sales in the area.
5 Next Steps With activity humming along in the downtown area, the Town' s most significant redevelopment opportunity may be in the Walker' s Brook area. Several years ago, sale and development of the former landfill was developed into what is now retail stores and restaurants anchored by Home Depot and Jordan' s Furniture. A few years ago the town reached an informal agreement with Wakefield to relocate our DPW locations to the Camp Curtis area, and those planning discussions continue. This would allow Reading to offer the current DPW site up for sale and redevelopment at some future date. The town has opened a dialogue with all property owners in the area- both residential and commercial - about future possibilities. The town has also visited with our legislative delegation and Secretary Ash about the availability of large MassWorks grants to assist in this effort. A proposed 40B development on Eaton and Lakeview has started to draw attention to that section of the community as 2017 closed.
Economic Growth- Carefully Planned New Growth As part of a comprehensive Peer Community review discussed a year ago, the Town looked back at recent multifamily projects in Reading. While there is incomplete precise data available of the cost of services rendered to each project by the town, a reasonable proxy is to use the number of public school students multiplied by the per-pupil costs. This estimate will be low, especially as public safety costs are left out, but makes for an interesting analysis when compared to tax revenues, as shown below. Reading Commons ( the former Spence Farms) has been far less financially profitable for the community when compared to Reading Woods ( the former Addison Wesley), for example:
Units FY 17 FY 16 FY 15 FY 14 FY 13
READING WOODS owner 424 4. 1% 5. 9% 6. 6% 8. 7% 4.6%
JOHNSON WOODS owner 293 26. 8% 16. 6% 17. 6% 12. 5% 15. 3%
RDG COMM/ ARCH rental 204 81. 3% 51.9% 40. 2% 54. 2% 62. 7%
GAZEBO CIRCLE rental 132 6. 6% 0. 0% 0. 0% 0. 0% 0. 0%
CEDARGLEN rental 114 0. 0% 0. 0% 0. 0% 0. 0% 0. 0%
LONGWOOD/ PEARL rental 86 0. 0% 0. 0% 0. 0% 0. 0% 0. 0%
HAVEN/ OAKTREE rental 53 36. 3% 15. 2% 7. 4% 20. 8% 6. 4%
MAPLEWOOD owner 36 0. 0% 0. 0% 0. 0% 0. 0% 0. 0%
Please enjoy the remainder of our Annual Report that follows. As always, we welcome your thoughts and comments anytime!
Robert W. LeLacheur, Jr. CFA Town Manager
Email: townmana er ci.readin . ma.us o,
Website: www.readingma.gov
6 Town of MA r1 Reading, Executive Branch i Table of Organization April 2018 Town Meeting— no changes)
VOTERS
SCHOOL COMMITTEE BOARD OF SELECTMEN BOARD OF elected) elected) LIBRARY TRUSTEES
elected)
School school Town Accountant Town Manager Town Counsel Buildings Department
ADMINISTRATIVE FACILITIES PUBLIC SERVICES PUBLIC SAFETY SERVICES FINANCE PUBLIC WORKS PUBLIC LIBRARY Facilities Assistant Police Chief& dministrative Services Town Accountant Director of Public Works Library Director Director Town Manager Fire Chief Director
Board of Selectmen Police Public Svc Administration [ DPW Administration Library Administration Finance Committee ounting Animal Control Core Facilities Engineering Circulation Town Manager Office Community Development LAssessment Traffic Enforcement Town Buildings Highway9 Y Children' s Law Building ections Telecommunications Equipment Maintenance g Reference Insurance y RCASA Historical Parks/Forestry/ Cemetery Tech Services Human Resources Fire Conservation Rubbish/ Recycling Operationsp Emergency Managemeni Community Services Street Lighting Technology Snow/Ice Town Clerk Elder/ Human Water Elections Public Health Recreation Sewer Veterans Stormwater
7 Puildinasio ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES DEPARTMENT
Board of Selectmen John Halsey was re- elected as Selectmen for a three year term, and Andrew Friedmann was elected to his first three- year term. John Arena served as Chair, Barry Berman served as Vice Chair and Dan Ensminger served as Secretary.
Personnel and Appointments The Board of Selectmen reappointed Sharon Angstrom as Town Accountant with a term expiring June 30, 2018.
The Board also continued the appointment of the firm of Miyares and Harrington as Town Counsel.
Town Manager continued to serve under his existing contract which expires in August 2018, unless it is rolled over for one additional year.
The Selectmen held Public Hearings in March to separate the Treasurer and Collector positions; and in May to amend the FY17 Non-Union Classification Plan to upgrade the Parking Enforcement Officer and Van Driver positions by two grades; and the Computer Technician, Librarian, Recreation Administrator, Senior Computer Technician and GIS Administrator positions by one grade. All changes were made retroactive to July 1, 2016 as a last portion of the Pay & Classification Plan completed a few years earlier. The Board also approved an identical Classification Plan for FY18 as well as an FY18 Non-Union Compensation Plan that included a 0. 75% Cost of Living Increase. All costs were approved by Town Meeting in April 2017 as part of the annual budget process.
The Board heard a report from the Town Manager that suggested a thorough review be made by Labor Counsel and the retired HR Administrator of all eight town union contracts. Such a review has not been done for at least 25 years, and all suggested changes and updated language will be part of the collective bargaining process expected to be complete in 2018. The Board reviewed a first draft of an updated Personnel Policy, with a final draft delayed until after the collective bargaining process has been completed.
In May 2017 the Board approved an Inter Municipal Agreement with Wakefield for a shared Food Services Director position for both school departments.
Boards and Committees In January 2017 the Board conducted Public Hearings on the FY18 budgets, including updates from many of the appointed Boards and Committees that reside in the Public Services department under Assistant Town Manager Jean Delios or the Administrative Services department under Ombudsman Matt Kraunelis. The Board also heard a presentation from the elected Board of Library Trustees and Library Director Amy Lannon.
8 The Board' s two-member Volunteer Appointment SubCommittee ( VASO) met during the year as needed to review volunteer applications and fill vacancies. Board members Berman and Ensminger served on the VASC for the year.
In April and May the Board received updates from many of their appointed boards and committees. They also discussed a Human Rights proclamation and the sunset provision for the Human Relations Advisory Committee.
In June the Board received a Needs Assessment by UMass Boston Gerontology Center for Social and Demographic Research on behalf of the Council on Aging in Reading. In July the Board adopted a Hazard Mitigation Plan.
In August the Board participated in an Executive Session with the School Committee, Board of
Library Trustees and the Finance Committee concerning a Building Security Review. Over $ 4 million of security related improvements were adopted by Town Meeting for some future capital funding.
In September in a joint meeting with The Historical Commission and the Historic District Commission a Historic District Preservation Restriction was approved for 186 Summer Avenue. The Board also held a Public Hearing and voted to remove an Associate member from the Board of Health.
Throughout the year the Board received economic development updates. In April Economic Development Director Andrew Corona and Economic Development Liaison Jessie Wyman reviewed Peer Communities Best Practices, and in October the town hosted an Economic Development Summit that featured Jay Ash, Secretary of Housing and Economic Development from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Because of work done by the Planning division, the Town received a moratorium on 40B development projects, first for one year and then extended to two years.
Licenses and Permits The Board of Selectmen was busy with liquor licenses in 2017 and approved the following: A Change of Officer/ Beneficial Interest for Anthony' s Coal Fired Pizza in June. A Change of Beneficial Interest for Pepper Dining, Inc. d/b/a Chili' s in July. A Change of Manager for Pepper Dining, Inc. d/b/ a Chili' s in October.
In July of 2017 the Board of Selectmen amended the KENO policy, voting to remove the previous ban on the lottery game in Reading. The Board also approved an updated Policy on Article 3 Licenses.
In October of 2017 the Board of Selectmen adjusted the fee of the combined train depot parking compost sticker to the revised price of$ 150; with a separate compost-only sticker costing $25, 15 for senior citizens.
9 Tax Policy The Board issued a survey to the community about the 2016 failed Override and the financial condition of the town government and school department. Results of that survey allowed for comments and a wide variety were received. The Board recognized a gap in communications and some elements of trust needed to be improved.
Senior Tax Relief, approved through a petition to the General Court in 2016, was implemented in 2017. A total of 195 seniors applied for the exemption, and 182 were approved by the Board of Assessors. The total amount of MA Circuit Breaker Income Tax Credits received by these qualified seniors was $ 181, 096. The Board therefore could grant between 50% and 200% of that figure, and voted to approve the maximum amount. They agreed to split the tax rate between commercial/ industrial/personal property and residential taxpayers for the first time in Reading in order to divide up and share the costs of the approximately $ 362, 000 of Senior Tax Relief. The Board did not adopt a Residential Exemption or a Small Commercial Exemption.
As the year closed the Board discussed holding another Override in April 2018 as it moved town department budget reviews up to December 2017.
Town Counsel The role of Town Counsel is to provide information about what the law requires, to advise Town officials and boards concerning the law, to protect the legal interests of the Town in the conduct of its affairs, and to represent the Town in judicial and administrative proceedings. This involves the preparation of legal memoranda and the negotiation, drafting or review of protocols, memoranda of understanding or other types of agreements and contracts. In addition, Town Counsel answers questions on topics such as procurement, contracts, insurance, land use, environmental law, wetlands protection, municipal finance, construction law, employment, open meeting and public records requirements, and ethics.
In 2017, we represented Reading in four litigation matters:
Matteo Gallo, Trustee v. Town ofReading, Land Court No. 15- MISC- 000566 In this case, the owner of 506 Summer Avenue seeks a declaration that this property, which is located in the 5- 15 zoning district, may be used as a three- family dwelling. This matter remains active and is on track for a trial in the summer of 2018.
Paul Ferazzi, Trustee v. Reading Zoning Board ofAppeals, Superior Court 1681- CV- 02881- H In a decision dated September 1, 2016, the ZBA found that the property located at 85 Bancroft Street was not a lawfully nonconforming three- family dwelling. The property owner appealed this decision pursuant to M.G.L. c. 40A, § 17. This case remains active.
Trustees of the Summit Towers Condominium Trust v. Michael Johnsen and Town of Reading, District Court 1753- CV-0370 Condominium trustees sued a resident for unpaid condominium fees. The Town was included as a party as it held a lien for municipal taxes against the Defendant' s unit. Pursuant to an Agreement for Judgment, the Plaintiffs and the Town agreed that the
10 Town' s lien has priority and that any sale of the Defendant' s unit will be subject to that lien. A Certificate of Final Judgment concluding the matter was filed on November 22, 2017.
Trustees of the Summit Village Condominium Trust v. Falgun Pathak and Town ofReading, District Court 1753- CV- 0657
Condominium trustees sued a resident for unpaid condominium fees. The Town was included as a party as it held a lien for municipal taxes against the Defendant' s unit. Pursuant to an Agreement for Judgment, the Plaintiffs and the Town agreed that the Town' s lien has priority and that any sale of the Defendant' s unit will be subject to that lien. A Stipulation of Dismissal concluding the matter was filed on November 17, 2017.
The year 2017 marked the third full year of our tenure as Town Counsel in Reading. We believe that each matter that comes before Town Counsel deserves careful thought, and we strive to provide the Town with personal, direct and responsive legal counsel, diligent attention to the Town' s needs, and good humor.
Respectfully submitted,
J. Raymond Miyares Miyares and Harrington LLP Town Counsel
Town Clerk
Elections In 2017 there was one Election. The Town Election was held on April 4th.
Election Turnout On April 4th Town Election, there were 3, 331 votes cast with 133 Absentee Ballots, a turnout of 17. 5%.
Board of Registrars Registrars Krissandra Holmes, Gloria Hulse, Harry Simmons, and Town Clerk Laura Gemme registered 990 voters; made 6, 031 voter changes ( name, address, status); and deleted 487 voters in 2017. There was 2, 687 signatures certified on nomination and petition papers for the 2017 election year. Registrars also offered assistance to voters on Election Day.
Census The Annual Town Census was conducted in January, entirely by mail, with over 11, 600 forms mailed to residences.
11 The local census assists the Town Clerk in putting together the Street List( resident book) and the Jury List. Major functions served by an annual local census are: Information collected for municipal purposes School needs Growth and planning needs Resident identification for police and fire Collection of dog information Veteran Information Information for the Jury Commissioners Determining inactive voter status for voter removal as required by the National Voter Registration Act.
Town Meeting Town of Reading held an Annual and Subsequent Town Meeting in 2017. The Annual Town Meeting was held in four nights on April 24th, 27th, May 1 st and May 4th. The Subsequent Town Meeting was held in two nights on November 13th and 16th.
Vital Statistics and Licensing During the calendar year 2017, the following Vital Statistics were recorded in the Town Clerk's Office: Births —238 Marriages —84 Deaths —407
The Town Clerk' s office issued 2,551 dog licenses, 2 commercial dog kennel licenses and 2 residential kennel licenses, 98 business certificates, 19 renewals for 68 underground storage tanks, and 51 cemetery deeds.
The Town Clerk as the Burial Agent for the Board of Health issued 342 Burial Permits. Total Receipts
Total receipts collected in the Town Clerk's office for the calendar year 2017 amounted to 76, 821. 30
Human Resources The Human Resources Division supports the Town (under the direction of the Town Manager),
Schools ( under the direction of the Superintendent), Light Department( under the direction of the RMLD General Manager) and Retiree benefit activities.
Employee benefits administered through this Division include health, dental and life insurance, deferred compensation, flexible spending accounts, the sick-leave bank, the Employee Assistance Program, paid time off, leave of absences, professional development and unemployment benefits. Job related injuries covered by worker' s compensation or MGL Chapter 41 Section 111F ( for public safety employees) are also administered through this department.
Worker' s compensation is a premium-based program purchased through the Massachusetts Inter- Local Insurance Association ( MIIA). The Town is self-insured for job-related injuries of its
12 public safety employees qualifying under Section 111F. This program is fully administered within the Human Resources Division and in the process of receiving and evaluating bids to consider a fully insured option.
The Town' s health insurance program is currently administered through MIIA, with large losses being shared by all members of the MIIA Health Benefits Trust. The Town occasionally reviews options of its health insurance plans available through an open bid process.
We have recently reviewed options for our Retiree population previously disqualified from receiving Medicare benefits. This process included identifying those retirees and meeting with them to offer a more beneficial plan including Medicare and our Medex plan. MIIA proposed the Post 65 plan in November and we quickly notified the qualifying individuals of the plan to make the change. We held a series of meetings to explain the process and have been partnering with our retirees to allow for this transition. The Post 65 plan will benefit both the Town and our Retirees by utilizing the benefits available to them through Medicare and transferring them from the active employee plan to Medex. The Retiree will experience lower costs with the Medex plan as the co-pays are significantly lowered or eliminated and premiums are more manageable. The Town will benefit by shifting the higher costs to Medicare and stabilizing the demands on our active employee plans. The eligible individuals are in the process of filing with Social Security during open enrollment for a July 1, 2018 effective date.
The Public Employee Committee meets occasionally to review the status of the Town' s plans and to provide input throughout the selection process. We are currently anticipating the disclosure of our FY 2019 rates and will be meeting with the Public Employee Committee to confirm our plan coverage and any other updates being considered.
Technolo2y & Operations
Technology The Technology Division is responsible for providing and maintaining the necessary computing and telecommunications infrastructure and systems that the various Town departments use, in a secure and thoughtful manner. Additionally, the division administers the geographic information system ( GIS), and provides the town' s departments, boards, committees, and commissions with
custom maps and analysis.
Our division' s biggest challenge for the year had to do with the technology needs surrounding the Reading Public Library' s move out of the temporary space that they had occupied on General Way, and into the renovated location on Middlesex Avenue. Although the planning started well in advance of moving into the temporary space, the majority of the technology was not implemented until the months leading up to their grand reopening. In addition to coordinating the installation of equipment and wiring by the vendors involved, the division was able to move the phone system, network infrastructure, and staff and public computing environments, as well as the installation of various new technologies for both the staff and public, without any outside vendor' s assistance. This was all completed primarily during normal business hours. This had a negative impact on the services that we were able to deliver the other town departments, but
13 without exception, we received great support and understanding from those who had to wait longer for the services that we provide.
The GIS staff continued to work closely with Engineering and DPW to provide field data collection applications. Staff also teamed with Economic Development staff to create an interactive story map called " Reading is Open for Business", which includes interactive maps, charts, and photos designed to entice new businesses to Reading. Additionally, work on the 2020 US Census ramped up in 2017.
Operations The Operations Division includes the Department Head, Business Administrator, and Procurement Officer, and staff shared with the department and/ or the organization. The division is the centralized location for insurance/risk management, procurement, communications, and constituent services. The division works with all town departments on a multiple of special projects, providing support across several domains.
The Business Administrator manages the Reading Community Alerts system, powered by CodeRED, for both internal and external emergency and non-emergency communications. Operations staff also partnered with SeeClickFix to create a New England Regional User Group, collaborating with other SeeClickFix communities to promote best practices. In this role, she works with departments providing administrative and training support, as well as communications promoting the services across multiple channels.
The Business Administrator serves as the Safety Officer, chairing the interdepartmental Safety Committee, which seeks to reduce risk and injuries across all departments, including RMLD. She also works closely with Massachusetts Interlocal Insurance Association (MIIA) to manage all Automobile, General Liability, Property, Law Enforcement Liability, Public Officials Liability, School Board Liability, and Umbrella/Excess Liability insurance matters.
The Business Administrator partnered with several departments on local initiatives, communications, and analysis projects.
Procurement This is the first full year of operations for centralized procurement in the Town. The
Procurement office approves requisitions valued at $ 10, 000 or above for both the schools and the town departments.
The Procurement Office issued 24 invitations for bids or proposal covering products and services from roadwork, sewer work, technology, building repairs, recreation programs, new equipment, and supplies. The Procurement officer also approved 248 requisitions totaling in excess of 15, 000, 000 dollars and sold 13 pieces of equipment via auction. In addition, we fielded numerous emails for insight on quotes and best practices. The town surplus policy was revised and with intention for adoption in 2018.
14 PUBLIC SERVICES DEPARTMENT
The Public Services Department( formerly Community Services) provides professional services to the public and provides varying levels of staff support to the 10 boards and commissions that fall within the departmental organizational chart. The Department is staffed with both full-time and part-time employees as well as a limited amount of outsourced professional services plus volunteers.
The services provided are organized as either Community Development or Community Services. The Community Development Divisions include Planning, Conservation, Historical, and Inspections —Building, Plumbing/Gas, Electrical, and Mechanical. The Community Services Divisions include Health, Elder/Human Services, Recreation and Veterans Services. Cross- division coordination as well as collaboration with the Town' s many community partners is paramount to the operational success of the Department.
Providing services in a cost efficient manner is an overriding goal of the Department. For example, the Metro North Regional Housing Services Office (MNRHSO) includes a full-time staff person who is shared between the communities of Reading, North Reading, Wilmington, and Saugus. Another example of cost savings is the use of three part-time building inspectors, a part-time electrical inspector and a part-time plumbing/gas inspector. A full-time Permits Coordinator oversees permitting. Most permits are issued on the same day they are applied for.
The Assistant Town Manager leads the Department and works closely with the Assistant Department head ( Community Development Director). Outside services are provided as needed mostly on projects. In late 2016, the Town hired an Economic Development Director who resigned in late 2017 to relocate to the West coast. The process has begun to hire a successor to continue the work started by the Economic Development Director.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT Within the Public Services Department, Community Development personnel comprise expertise and deliver services to the public related to the fields of planning, conservation, historical properties, and building inspections.
In 2017, Community Development staff continued to provide regular support to the Community Planning and Development Commission, the Conservation Commission, the Historical Commission, the Historic Districts Commission, and the Zoning Board of Appeals. Planning staff also provided support to the Board of Selectmen as needed.
Volunteers represent a tremendous resource for Community Development. Extensive work is undertaken because of the ongoing efforts of the many volunteers.
15 Planning Division Community Development Director: Julie Mercier Regional Housing Coordinator: Laurie Stanton Permits Coordinator: Kim Saunders The Planning Division provides technical and professional planning services to the Town of Reading and the relevant land use boards. The Town of Reading Master Plan, as well as other long-range plans regarding economic development, transportation, housing, and other aspects of land use and development, serves as a guide for planning staff in helping to achieve stated goals for the Town. Planning processes aid civic leaders, businesses and citizens in envisioning and implementing new possibilities for the future. In addition to long-range planning, planning staff also develop action plans aimed at providing solutions to current community problems and at addressing daily needs.
Site Plan Review ( SPR) is the zoning tool used to evaluate development projects. This is an important tool as it allows the Town to influence projects so that they respect the existing fabric of the Town as well as future planning objectives, and are carried out in harmony with the rest of the community. Planning staff work directly with the Community Planning and Development Commission (CPDC) in reviewing development proposals and drafting SPR decisions that reflect and mitigate issues elaborated by the CPDC, staff and the public during the development review process.
The existing organizational structure of Public Services supports collaboration and communication across the department. The Planning Division regularly collaborates with all Divisions of Community Development as well as Community Services. For example, the Community Development Director coordinates Development Review Team (DRT) meetings and Pre- Construction meetings with applicants to provide guidance on permitting and development.
In an effort to clarify applicants' expectations during the permitting process, the Community Development Director prepares an annual Permitting Schedule that delineates submission deadlines for various types of projects based on CPDC meeting dates.
The Division undertook other notable projects in 2017, ranging from ongoing updates to the Zoning Bylaw, which began in 2013, to Wayfinding/Branding for the Town of Reading. An Economic Development Summit was held on October 4, 2017. The Hazard Mitigation Plan Update was completed in 2017, and an update to the Housing Production Plan was also substantially complete in 2017.
Metro North Regional Housing Services Office (MNRHSO) In regional planning efforts, the towns of Reading, North Reading, Wilmington and Saugus jointly hired a Regional Housing Coordinator in January 2015 to provide staff support to the Metro North Regional Housing Services Office (MNRHSO), which is situated under the Planning Division at Reading Town Hall. The MNRHSO was established and set up during 2015, and initial services for each town included: the creation of monitoring databases of affordable housing developments and residents, and the collection of records for each affordable unit. During 2017, the Regional Housing Coordinator continued to work with each member town' s planning staff and with a housing consultant to further the work of the MNRHSO. 16 Ongoing core services include: annual monitoring for both ownership and rental units; reconciling municipal inventories with the DHCD' s Subsidized Housing Inventory (SHI); petitioning to add new units to the SHI when required; meeting on-site with staff and housing entities; creating and updating interested-buyer, interested-renter lists; on- site consulting on projects; providing guidance to unit owners on re-financing and selling, and to renters as needed; helping towns to achieve town-specific goals; attendance and outreach at regional affordable housing lotteries and events; preparation of proposals for supplemental services as needed; aid in writing grants and RFPs; assistance with regional linkages; updating the MNRHSO webpage; and attendance at the annual Mass Housing Institute conference to enhance networking and to learn new trends in the field of affordable housing.
The Planning Division continues to work to further the scope and range of the Regional Housing Coordinator and MNRHSO, and to reach out to other nearby communities to expand membership when possible.
Metropolitan Area Planning Council( MAPC) North Suburban Planning Council (NSPC) Sub- region The North Suburban Planning Council (NSPC) is composed of eight towns and one city that have formed a voluntary association to facilitate cooperative regional planning. The goals of NSPC are to facilitate communication between member communities on planning topics of interest, including issues of growth management and land use, to promote and seek opportunities for inter-municipal coordination and cooperation, and to educate participating communities on new and important issues in the planning field. NSPC provides a forum for members to create a shared agenda for action that, if thoughtfully addressed, will allow the region to continue to thrive as a desirable place to live and work. The NSPC met on a wide range of topics including clean energy, parking, and regional collaboration over delivery of services.
Community Planning and Development Commission ( CPDC) In 2017, the CPDC held 20 meetings. The CPDC attended Annual and Subsequent Town Meetings, and attended 1 meeting of the Board of Selectmen. With the assistance of Planning staff, the CPDC reviewed a total of 26 applications for the following: 1 Special Permit; 4 Site Plan Reviews ( 1 withdrawn); 1 Minor Modification to an existing approval; 2 Site Plan Permit Extensions; 6 Sign Permit Reviews; 1 Preliminary Subdivision Plan ( withdrawn); 4 Definitive Subdivision Plans; 4 40R Plan Reviews; and 3 Approval Not Required Plans. The CPDC also endorsed 3 sets of approved Definitive Subdivision Plans. During the course of the year, the CPDC held 1 Housing Production Plan Renewal Community Forum, numerous public hearings regarding 2017 Zoning Bylaw Amendments, and participated in an Economic Development Summit facilitated by Town staff.
Major Development Projects: In an effort to keep the public informed, the Public Services Department' s Bi-Weekly Notes were continued in 2017, and included items of interest related to Community Development including information on Complete Streets and the Hazard Mitigation Plan Update. Numerous projects were approved in 2017 and there could be 16 major development projects seeking a building permit in 2018.
The Planning Division is located at Town Hall, 16 Lowell Street, telephone (781) 942- 6648. 17 Conservation Division
Reading Conservation Commission The Reading Conservation Commission ( RCC) is the regulatory authority ( per state statute and local bylaw) responsible for protecting and preserving wetlands and waterways and their surrounding areas. At public meetings on the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month, or as otherwise announced and through site visits, RCC members work to ensure that all construction and development projects - residential and commercial - that may aper any wetlands, floodplains, rivers or streams, are in compliance with state and local regulations. The
RCC also protects and manages the Town' s Conservation Lands and natural resources. Meetings normally begin at 7: 00 p. m. The Commission' s office is located at Town Hall, 16 Lowell Street, Reading, MA 01867, and the telephone number is ( 781) 942- 6616.
Wetlands Protection Activities The RCC is mandated to protect wetlands, waterways, water supplies, fisheries, wildlife, and wildlife habitat as well as regulate activities in a floodplain through its administration of the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act and the Reading General Bylaw for Wetlands Protection. RCC members regularly seek continuing education to keep abreast of frequently changing regulations and to assist applicants through the regulatory process.
The Commission has a primary role in administering the following statutes and regulations: Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act, M.G.L. Chapter 131, Section 40; Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act Regulations at 310 CMR 10. 00; Town of Reading Wetlands Protection Bylaw, and Reading Wetlands Protection Bylaw Regulations
In addition to the statutes and regulations listed above, the Conservation Office reviews permit applications received by the Planning, Building Inspection, and Public Health divisions on matters within the jurisdiction of the Conservation Commission. In many cases, this " sign- off' process involves a visit to the site to ascertain whether jurisdictional areas are present.
2017 Natural Resources Conservation Activities
The Conservation Commission engages directly with the community during the Town' s Earth Day and Friends & Family Day events. The opening of Mattera Cabin has provided a venue for many town- wide activities. Scheduling is done by both the Conservation Division and the Recreation Department, with many Town groups using the facility.
The Commission implemented a tree replacement policy in an effort to be more consistent in responding to the cutting down of mature trees within the Commission' s jurisdiction. This policy offers applicants the flexibility of providing replacement trees or shrubs or contributing to the Reading shade tree planting program.
18 Many special thanks go to the scores of volunteers who assisted as land stewards or participated in the many Friends groups that work to preserve the Town' s natural resources and conservation lands.
Membership and Office Management The Reading Conservation Commission is composed of seven volunteer members appointed by the Board of Selectmen for renewable three-year terms and is supported by a Full-time Administrator, Charles Tirone, Ann Gentile Clerk.
In 2017, the Conservation Commission Members were: Rebecca Longley - Chair, Annika Scanlon - Vice Chair, Michael Flynn, Harry Curtis, David Pinette, and Robert Hayes.
Historical Division
Historic District Commission ( HDC) The Historic District Commission oversees both the West Street and Summer Avenue Historic Districts. The purpose of the HDC is to administer Section 7. 3 Local Historic District, of the General Bylaw, as it pertains to preserving the distinctive characteristics and architecture of the buildings through review of construction projects. The HDC encourages building designs compatible with the historic character of the Districts.
In 2017, the HDC reviewed eleven ( 11) applications. Five ( 5) Certificates of Non-Applicability and three ( 3) Certificates of Appropriateness were issued for projects in the West Street Historic District; three ( 3) Certificates of Non-Applicability and zero ( 0) Certificates of Appropriateness were issued for projects in the Summer Avenue Historic District. The HDC also issued a letter and brochure to all residences within both Historic Districts providing guidance and links to references and outlining the responsibilities of maintaining the Historic Districts.
In 2017, the Commission was composed of five ( 5) voting members: Everett Blodgett— Chair, Virginia Adams, Ilene Bornstein, Greg Maganzini, and Priscilla Poehler, and one ( 1) alternate: Jack Williams. Currently, there are three ( 3) open alternate positions.
For more information about the Historic Districts and the HDC please refer to the Town of Reading' s website.
Reading Historical Commission (RHC)
Historical Commission' s List of Historic Structures The RHC List of Historic Structures was updated following a comprehensive review of all structures included in Reading' s Historical and Architectural Inventory. The " official" RHC List of Historic Structures is used to determine which structures on specific properties are subject to the Town' s Demolition Delay Bylaw. This first significant update in several years, was approved by the RHC and submitted to the Building Inspector in late January, noting 13 19 outbuildings located on previously inventoried properties and included in the Historical and Architectural Inventory.
Rules and Regulations The RHC continued work on its first" Rules and Regulations" document. Following extensive discussions spanning years and several drafts, a final version was prepared by Jonathan Barnes for submission at a public hearing. That hearing took place on August 9, 2017. With no objections, and minor refinements, the " Rules and Regulations" were unanimously approved and implemented by the RHC.
Demolition Delay Hearings 79- 81 Salem Street— This 1840- 1850 Federal/Greek Revival 2- family house, situated on a deep narrow lot, was targeted for demolition. Plans for re-use were not available at the time of the
28th, Demo Delay hearing. A Demolition delay of 6 months was imposed on January and expired on July 28, 2017. ( Demolition has not yet occurred.)
287 Ash Street— Applicant applied for a permit to demolish a 2 car garage. Built in 1914 as a Craftsman Colonial, the original garage faithfully complemented the house. After reviewing plans for the new construction ( a 2 car garage and accessory apartment to be connected to the house), and in recognition of the complementary design details for the new construction, the RHC voted not to impose a Demolition Delay. ( The garage has been demolished and the project has been completed.)
119 Salem Street— This 1834- 1839 Federal Venacular dwelling was previously subjected to a Demolition Delay. However, the contractor did not apply for and demolish the structure within the 2 year requisite time frame, and therefore re- applied for a demotion permit. A Demolition
31st. Delay hearing was held on August A Demo Delay was imposed. However, upon receipt of more detailed plans describing the new construction, a 1/ 4 scale elevation plan including landscape details, and specifics concerning materials to be used, the RHC released the delay 8th. ( subject to agreed- upon conditions, on November Demolition has started.)
136 Haven Street- Post Office Redevelopment Project This property is on the Commission' s Historical and Architectural Inventory. In addition, the property is subject to a Protective Covenant which requires consultation with and permission of the Massachusetts Historical Commission ( MHC) prior to any demolition or alterations on the property that would affect historic features. A 5- story mixed-use 40R redevelopment of the property was before the Community Planning & Development Commission ( CPDC) in 2017.
While the RHC agreed that the proposed development would add vitality to the Haven Street neighborhood, it had several concerns regarding significant adverse impacts upon the historic structure. We were pleased that the Post Office building' s facade was being preserved, but stated that the original design was too overwhelming and large in massing, height, size, scale, and that the footprint brought construction too close to abutters, primarily at the rear property line.
20 Working independently with the developer, and maintaining communication with MHC, conversations ensued and the proposed new construction was pulled back entirely off the original 1918 building. The original Post Office will continue to enjoy reasonable prominence and be an anchor property on Haven Street. The Community Planning and Development Commission CPDC) approved the project in September 2017.
As per agreements with the developer, RHC looks forward to reviewing landscape details and plans for the front granite block retaining wall.
186 Summer Avenue - Criterion Child Enrichment Project
In 2017, several joint meetings were held with the Historic District Commission ( HDC), often including Town Counsel, to draft a suitable " Preservation Restriction Agreement" for this property. The final document retains the RHC as the primary authority to enforce the agreement, but provides appropriate control and oversight to the HDC. The PRA was approved by all parties and signed off late this summer.
20- 24 Gould Street- Former Ace Art and EMARC building Redevelopment Project The Ace Art building is on Reading' s Historical & Architectural Inventory, as well as the National Register of Historic Places. Built in 1924 in Art Deco style, it provided office and manufacturing space for Lester Riley' s ubiquitous " nuAce" mounting corners, which Mr. Riley invented in Reading. A 4- story mixed-use 40R redevelopment of the property was before the CPDC in fall 2017.
RHC' s input to the CPDC, and to the developer, was to request that elements of Reading' s only Art Deco architecture be incorporated into the project' s design. Further, we asked that an interpretive exhibit be included and installed on- site to memorialize the properties historical significance, and that an informational plaque be displayed outside the new building. We are optimistic that the developer will honor our requests, and look forward to more dialogue with the developer as the project progresses. The CPDC approved the project in November 2017.
Before this historic building can be demolished, a public hearing must be conducted before the RHC in accordance with the Demolition Delay Bylaw; and depending on the developer' s funding sources, he may have to pursue approval from MHC. The RHC will continue to have input in that process.
Lobs Pound Mill This site has been the subject of several meetings and discussions involving representatives of the Commission, representatives of North Reading, MWRA, MHC, Reading Town representatives, and other Town Boards. A new water main across the Lobs Pound Mill site, or in its vicinity, will provide North Reading with access to Reading' s water supply source. As such, this project has the potential to adversely impact this historic and archeologically significant location. RHC continues to monitor progress. North Reading is currently reassessing their interest.
21 Reading Monopole Project RHC reviewed applications from the MBTA to install 74 foot high antennas and equipment near 16 Vine Street and 10 Pilgrim Road. Visits were made to both sites to assess the impact of these structures on nearby historic properties. The RHC concluded that cultural and historic properties would not be affected. Additionally, RHC raised with Town officials, the question of neighbors' opportunity for input. The MBTA subsequently abandoned both projects.
Membership Samantha Couture ( 2020) was appointed to the RHC as an Associate Member in February. She subsequently applied for and was appointed as a Full/Voting Member in June. Ron Weston 2020) was re- appointed as a Full Member in June, and currently serves as Chair. Other RHC Members are Sharlene Reynolds- Santos ( 2018) Secretary, Jonathan Barnes ( 2019) Treasurer, Jack Williams ( 2019), and Associate Member Virginia Adams ( 2018).
Of special note is that Virginia Adams, who was first appointed to the RHC in 1978, will celebrate 40 years of dedicated service on the Commission in 2018.
Carl Mittnight, a longtime member and former Chair, did not seek reappointment in June for personal reasons. His experience, voice of moderation, and many contributions over the years are very much appreciated.
Other Activities The RHC continues to respond to inquiries, typically from Realtors, residents interested in modifying their historic home, or simply requests for assistance in understanding the historic significance of specific properties. The RHC also participated in Town-wide activities such as the spring Reading Garden Club Sale and Reading Arts event, and the Reading Fall Street Fair. The Archives are attended to by the members as time and priorities permit.
Inspections Division
The Inspections Division is responsible for carrying out inspectional services on commercial and residential construction in the areas of building & sheet metal, gas, plumbing and wiring. In addition, the division is responsible for enforcing the Town' s Zoning By-laws and providing staff to the Zoning Board of Appeals.
Statistics Year End 2017 Previous Year End 2016
Building: Building Permits issued" 971 1083
Inspections 1780 1769
Certificates of Inspections 121 129
Occupancy Permits Issued 169 239
Fees received 381, 616* 339, 693*
22 Wiring: Wiring Permits issued 670 768
Inspections 1059 1036
Fees received 51, 806* 58, 577*
Plumbing/Gas: Gas Permits issued 300 290
Gas Fees received 11, 771 10, 276*
Plumbing Permits issued 442 458
Plumbing Fees received 19, 706* 19, 878*
Combined Inspections 1289 1467 Gas/ Plumbing TOTAL FEES 464, 899* 408, 546*
Totals do not include permit fees for Johnson Woods or Reading Woods deposited in revolving building account.
The total Building permits issued include Building, Mechanical, Fire & Sprinkler Alarm
DRT/Pre- Construction Meetings —46 MBCIA Meetings —5 Court—2 court dates
ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS
The Zoning Board of Appeals met 21 times in 2017. The ZBA voted on petitions for 8 Variances, and 9 Special Permits.
The Zoning Board of Appeals held 3 public hearings for the Reading Village 40B in 2017; the project was approved in February 2017.
The Zoning Board of Appeals held 6 public hearings for the Schoolhouse Commons 40B in 2017; the project was approved in July 2017.
In 2017, the ZBA Members were: Chairman David Traniello, John Jarema, Robert Redfern,
Damase Caouette, and Erik Hagstrom & Nick Pernice, Associate Members. Kathleen Hackett stepped down as a member in mid- 2017. Staff support to the ZBA was primarily provided by Glen Redmond— Building Commissioner, Julie Mercier— Community Development Director, Kristen Grover— Administrative Specialist, Kim Saunders —Permits Coordinator and Maureen Knight— Office Manager.
23 COMMUNITY SERVICES Community Services consists of the Elder/Human Services Division, Health Division, Recreation Division and Veterans' Services.
ELDER/HUMAN SERVICES DIVISION (EHS) 2017
EHS provides social services, nurse advocacy, transportation, a variety of programs, and a meal site for Reading residents age 60 and over. EHS also assists residents of all ages with social services, advocacy, referrals and holiday programs. EHS collaborates throughout the community in both public and private sectors so that together with established community partners the public is served in an efficient and coordinated manner.
EHS partners with many outside organizations. The Department' s state designated ASAP Aging Service Access Point) is Mystic Valley Elder Services ( MVES). ASAPs manage the state- based Massachusetts Home Care Program, and work with Councils on Aging ( Elder Services), established under the federal Older Americans Act, to make sure that seniors have access to all essential services. Through MVES a variety of services are provided including home care, personal care, meal- site catering and home- delivered meals through the Meals on Wheels program. Not all residents are eligible for MVES nor do all accept the services provided. In these situations the Division plays a vital role in assisting Reading seniors.
EHS staffing is comprised of two part-time employees and four full-time employees as follows: Part-Time - Administrator, and a shared support staff person Full-Time - Case Manager, Senior Center Coordinator, Van Driver, and Nurse Advocate
Aging in Reading: A Community Needs Assessment On June 30, 2017 the UMass Boston Gerontology Institute completed an EHS Needs Assessment. The purpose of this assessment was to identify the community needs impacting EHS including the increasing population of senior citizens within the town. In developing the Assessment, the Division hosted focus groups with staff members and community partners. Two Community Forums were held at the Pleasant Street Center and community stakeholders and staff were interviewed. In addition to identifying community needs, The Needs Assessment includes recommendations that may serve as a guide in planning for the future. The study is available on the Town website.
Social Services The Senior Case Manager addresses the needs and concerns of Reading residents of all ages. Assistance involves crisis intervention, food pantry, domestic violence, homelessness, and information and referrals regarding housing, mental health, and disability-related concerns.
For those age 60 and over, assistance also includes intervening in cases of neglect, loneliness, or depression, hoarding, coordinating appointments with area medical and social service agencies; as well as providing information and referrals with regard to nursing home/rehabilitation placement and eligibility for State and Federal programs.
24 The Department receives referrals and assistance from many Town Departments as well as outside agencies. Police, Fire and the EHS Division meet monthly for a round table discussion to review critical cases. Other areas in which the Senior Case Manager partners with Town Departments include the Veterans Agent in ensuring services for veterans, the DPW in holiday programs, and the Library on a variety of programs and referrals.
The Senior Case Manager provides eligibility screening and assistance with applications for the Reading Food Pantry. In order to qualify for the Food Pantry the Case manager meets with the applicant to review their financial qualifications and residency requirements. The Department also provides transportation to the Food Pantry which is coordinated by the Senior Case Manager. During 2017, 70 residents were certified for the Food Pantry.
Nurse Advocacy - In 2017 the Nurse Advocate met with 731 residents The Nurse Advocate is dedicated to helping Reading seniors manage their health care needs. This position is instrumental in identifying the frailest seniors in Reading, especially those who live alone and do not have someone nearby for support. Through outreach and referrals the Nurse Advocate is able to help seniors better understand changes in their medical conditions and/ or medication. The Nurse Advocate is available to seniors at the Pleasant Street Center and home visits. Other responsibilities of the Nurse Advocate include educating, counseling and advocating for seniors. The Nurse Advocate also serves in a leadership role in coordinating a variety of wellness programs for seniors at the Pleasant Street Center.
Transportation (Medical Transportation— 1, 326 rides; Van— 6,594 rides) There are a variety of transportation programs available to Reading residents. The EHS Division assists with referrals for the MBTA Ride program and coordinates services for the Reading Response Medical Transportation program. This service provides taxi or chair car transportation for medical appointments throughout the Boston Area. The Reading Response Program is funded by the Town of Reading' s Hospital Trust Fund, the income from which helps to defray medically related services to Reading citizens as authorized by the Commissioners.
As part of the Medical Transportation program, residents having day surgical procedures can be accompanied by a Home Health Aide. During 2017 the division schedule 1, 326 rides through the Reading Response Program, an 18% increase over 2016.
The Division also operates a 12 passenger van for seniors and adults with disabilities. Transportation is provided in-town and to surrounding area shopping plazas for the following purposes: errands, grocery shopping, voting, pharmacy needs, and visiting the Pleasant Street Center. For younger residents, the van service offers transportation to and from the food pantry and other vital destinations. In 2017, the van provided 6, 594 one- way trips, a 7% increase over 2016.
In the spring of 2014 the Division applied for and was awarded a grant through the Massachusetts Department of Transportation for a new van. The Division now operates two vans, one on a regular route and the other offering bimonthly trips to various destinations.
25 The Pleasant Street Center The Pleasant Street Center provides fitness, nutrition, socialization and wellbeing programs for Reading seniors. The Center is open Monday through Friday, 8: 30 am — 3: 00 pm. Lunch is served Monday through Friday ( except holidays) at 11: 45 am. Meals are provided by Mystic Valley Elder Services. During the year, 4, 151 lunches were served at the Pleasant street Center. During 2017, 975 residents took part in an activity at the Center.
The Senior Center Coordinator' s primary responsibility is to manage the daily operations of the Center including the care of the facility and the coordination of activities. Below is a summary of the programs.
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Zumba fitness Art Lessons Zumba Zumba B. E. S. T. - Strength Training
Hairdresser* Advanced Art Knitting Club Manicures Walking Club Yoga Brain Yoga Billiards Mah Jongg Chess Cribbage Bingo Computer Computer Lessons Party Bridge Lessons Birthday Lunch* Computer Tai Chi Book Club* Clean & Sober Lessons Support Group Blood Pressure Walking Club Parkinson' s Movies SHINE- health Clinic Support insurance info* Group* Memory Caf6*+ Low Vision* Blood Pressure Clinic SHINE- health Scuttlebutt* insurance info* Reiki* Movie Days
Meet monthly Meets at Library
In 2017, the Division applied for and received a Title IIIE grant from Mystic Valley Elder Services in support of the Memory Caf6. The grant was for $ 1, 800to support programming and supplies needed to operate the Caf6.
The Division publishes a monthly newsletter to increase awareness of the programs. Included in the newsletters is a listing of special events such as day trips, dinner programs, Lunch n' Learn programs, musical entertainment and trivia days. Groups supporting special events in 2017 include the Police Department, Lions Club, the Council on Aging and the Young Women' s League.
Intergeneration Programs Elder/Human Services continues to reach out to the community, particularly the younger generation. High School students act as servers, bingo callers and kitchen staff during the 26 summer months. In 2017, the Boys High School Hockey and Lacrosse teams assisted 50 elders with snow removal.
As in past years the middle schools provided entertainment during the holidays. In the spring, Parker Middle School hosted the annual intergenerational Cribbage Tournament.
The Division also partners with the Recreation Division on Intergenerational programming. During April school vacation, Bingo and a Mother' s Day Tea are held at the Pleasant Street Center. The Division continues to play an active role in Downtown Trick or Treating.
Volunteers - 89 registered volunteers, 4, 842 hours of service, valued at approximately 41, 000. As social services contacts and clients increase, the time needed to recruit volunteers has diminished. The division recognizes the importance and need for volunteers and is grateful to the residents that offer their time in service. The number of volunteers has decreased but remains an integral component of EHS. Positions filled by volunteers include: Pleasant Street Center receptionists, gardeners, book discussion leaders, game leaders, income tax preparers, computer instructors, COA members, friendly visitors, office workers, newsletter editor, kitchen helpers, shoppers for homebound seniors, and shopping escorts.
Property Tax Workers The Property Tax Worker program allows Reading seniors to perform various tasks for Town departments in exchange for abatement on their property taxes. The program is open to Reading residents age 62 and over or disabled, who own property and have a household income that does not exceed limits set by the program. In 2017, there were 30 tax workers and each participant was permitted to earn a maximum abatement of $ 1, 000 annually. The 30 workers performed 3, 578. 75 hours of service. In 2017, participants were compensated at a rate of$ 8. 00 per hour for a program total of $ 28, 630. The program has been funded through the Assessors' Overlay account.
Burbank Trust Fund - 2017 beginning balance = $ 259, 554. 35 - 2017 ending balance = 262, 329. 68 The fund was established by the Burbank Family of Reading. The fund was established with no usage restrictions; however, the COA determined the fund cannot go below $ 250, 000. In 2017, the Council on Aging approved expenditures from the Dorothy L. Burbank Trust to pay for the following: three months of postage cost for bulk mailings of the newsletter; birthday cakes, gift certificates, lunch for the monthly birthday celebrants. The Council allows the Division Administration a discretionary budget of $3, 000 to provide entertainment at the Pleasant Street Center.
Patrons for Older Adults Fund - 2017 beginning balance = $ 140, 938.00 2017 ending balance= $ 142, 337. 69 In 2010, Town Meeting voted to accept a gift from the Patrons for Older Adults (Article 17). This fund is used to support programs not funded by the Town of Reading. " New" programs can be funded year after year. The fund came to Elder Services/ COA as a gift from The Patron for Older Adults, who donated the money when the organization dismantled. The fund, when 27 originally established, was in the amount of$ 125, 000. In 2017, the Council on Aging approved expenditures from the fund to support the Volunteer Appreciation Event, Chinese Dinner, and a Lobster Roll Dinner. In addition, the Council approved funding day trips for seniors. The fund covers the cost of fuel and the driver' s salary for a variety of monthly excursions.
Schroeder Trust Fund - 2017 beginning balance = $ 23, 234. 73 2017 ending balance = 23, 087. 67 The Schroeder Trust Fund is a goodwill fund that can only be used to provide small gestures of kindness to seniors. This fund allows the COA to purchase and deliver meals to seniors on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter. In 2017, the Thanksgiving meals were once again generously donated by Christopher' s Restaurant and not purchased by the Schroeder Trust. All meals were delivered by Council on Aging members and staff. The Schroeder fund allows interest only spending, and cannot go below $ 10, 000. Donations Many individuals and organizations have generously supported Elder/Human Services' efforts by providing money, gifts, and in- kind services. The Elder Services Donations Fund covers situations for persons age 60 and older who lack financial resources to cover basic needs or
emergencies. The Human Service Donations Fund is for persons under age 60 who lack financial resources for emergency situations.
Human Services Donations 2017 beginning balance = $ 5, 870. 24 Human Services Donations 2017 ending balance = $ 5, 096.28
Elder Services Donations 2017 beginning balance = $ 44, 016. 73 Elder Services Donations 2017 ending balance = $ 43, 691. 73
Holiday Programs Adopt-a-Family Once again the Reading Rotary Club and ReadingCARES coordinated the Adopt-A-Family holiday program. Elder/Human Services assisted them by verifying eligibility and distributing food and gifts to families in need. The Adopt-a-Family program matches low income Reading families with confidential donors of food and gifts for children. This past year, 96 donor groups, families, and individuals made donations of food and gifts to the Adopt-A-Family program. During Thanksgiving 52 families received food baskets and during Christmas 56 families received baskets.
Thanksgiving/ Christmas Baskets The Social Worker supplies the Wakefield Elks with a list of 12 seniors who would welcome receiving a basket of a complete holiday dinner.
28 Hitching Post Gift Shop Giving Tree For the third year the Division partnered with the Hitching Post Gift Shop. Through the Center, seniors were able to refer friends and neighbors for the giving tree. The division staff coordinated the names and gift suggestions and anonymously submitted them to the Hitching Post. Shoppers to the gift shop selected the seniors and purchased gifts. In 2017, there were 54 recipients in the program.
Council on Aging Home Delivered Meals During Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas the Council on Aging delivered 35 individual holiday dinners to residents in need. The Council works with individual businesses within the community to sponsor the meal and they are delivered by Council members.
Council on Aging Board The Council on Aging is a 10 member advisory board. They meet the second Monday of the month, September through June. The role of the Council is to aid the department in promoting the needs of Reading Seniors. The Council is also responsible for overseeing the Burbank Trust Fund and Patrons for Older Adults Trust Fund. The purpose of these funds is to help subsidize the activities of the Department to the benefit of Reading seniors.
Health Division The mission of the Health Division is to educate, promote, improve and protect the public health and well-being of the citizens of the Town of Reading, while contributing to building a healthy community and environment in which to live. Under the Commonwealth of Massachusetts General Law and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Federal Public Health Laws, the Health Division is mandated under a dutiful obligation to develop and implement health policies, standards, bylaws and regulations. The Division is also obligated to conduct inspections and provide public health services to the community.
Functions The Division enforces local, state and federal public health laws, rules and regulations. The Division promotes, educates, offers and enforces the following: disease and injury prevention, immunization clinics, responses to bacterial illnesses, monitoring of disease outbreaks, health education and prevention programs, health advisories, health and wellness programs, nutrition and fitness information, tobacco control programs, environmental protection, responses to health hazards, ensuring water quality, monitoring of waste disposal, investigations into noise and air pollution, animal health, health monitoring, enforcement and ensuring of health and safety codes, health care access, and emergency preparedness and response.
Other public health functions include enforcement of the following local, state and federal codes, regulations and State & Federal statutes: Town of Reading Board of Health Regulations, Town of Reading Code of Ordinances, Commonwealth of Massachusetts Mandated Enforcement of Massachusetts State Sanitary Code( s), Commonwealth of Massachusetts Mandated Enforcement of Massachusetts State Statutes —Chapter 111 Public Health Laws, Commonwealth of
Massachusetts Mandated Enforcement of other Massachusetts General Laws & Statutes,
29 Commonwealth of Massachusetts State Mandated Requirements & Inspections, U.S. Federal Mandated Requirements, Inspections and Trainings, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services ( HHS) and Department of Food and Drug Administration (FDA) —The 1999 Federal Food Code, and Health Departments Other Mandated Requirements, Services & Inspections.
2017 Permitting The Health Division issued a total of 592 permits in 2017, as follows: under Title V - Well; under the Food Protection Program— Food Service/ Retail, Temporary, Residential, Mobile, Church, and School; under Community Sanitation— 8 Swimming Pool, 2 Body Art, 5 Summer Day Camp, 263 Dumpsters and 1 Ice Skating Rink; under Environmental Health— 10 Septage Hauler and 20 Tobacco Establishment, and 28 Animal/ Barn/ Beaver. In addition, 51 complaints related to housing, food, trash and nuisance were received and addressed.
Accomplishments The Division sustained a high level of public health services, maintained policies and procedures on accountability and transparency, and executed a cost savings policy.
Community Health Services Maintained compliance with the Massachusetts Department of Public Health 105 CMR 300. 00 " Reportable Diseases Isolation & Quarantine" requirements and immunization clinics and screenings for reportable infectious and communicable disease control investigation. Sustained Public Health Nursing services. Provide Influenza clinics. Issued 666 residential vaccinations. Sustained Influenza vaccinations for Reading home bound residents. Sustained compliance with Massachusetts Virtual Epidemiologic Network which is a web-based disease surveillance and case management system. Sustained compliance with MAVEN review and investigation of all reportable infectious and communicable diseases. Reviewed summer recreational camp applications of more than 1216 campers and counselors for required immunizations, physicals and LORI' S/ SORTS. Sustained educational community information on opioids abuse and prevention. Food Protection Program Maintained full compliance with the Massachusetts Department of Public Health 105 CMR 590. 000 - Food Protection Program by ensuring compliance with annual food service establishment inspections, code compliance, monitoring and investigation of all food borne illness outbreaks. Conducted 258 routine Food Establishment Inspections. Conducted 123 Re-Inspections. Conducted site plan reviews for new food establishments. Between housing, nuisance, and food, only 51 complaints were documented.
30 Community Sanitation Program Maintained compliance with the Massachusetts Department of Public Health- Community Sanitation Division for; 105 CMR 410. 00 Minimum Standards for Human Habitation 105 CMR 430. 000 Minimum Standards for Recreational Camps for Children 105 CMR 435. 000 Minimum Standards for Swimming Pools 105 CMR 123. 000 Minimum Standards Tanning Salons 105 CMR 335. 000 Treatment of Persons Exposed to Rabies 105 CMR 460. 000 Mass Regulations for Lead Poising Prevention Control MGL Ch. 111 s 131 Investigations into Public Health nuisances ( Noise, air and odor
pollution.
Environmental Health Maintained compliance with the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection 105 CMR 15. 00 - for all On- Site Sewage Treatment and Disposal Systems, Grease Traps and Private Wells. Sustained new weekly Arbovirus/ Mosquito Control Information and community statistics. Sustained Arbovirus/Mosquito Control surveillance. Sustained preventive maintenance by adult and larval mosquito control and ditch maintenance. Developed a new educational seminar to the residents of Reading community on Tick borne illness- Lyme disease. Sustained tobacco control compliance with the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Health Communities and Board of Health Tobacco regulations.
Emergency Preparedness Maintained compliance with the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Office of Preparedness and Emergency Management. Met all FYI State & Federal Public Health mandated deliverables required by the MDPH- Massachusetts State Public Health Department for the Region 3B Public Health Coalition. The Coalition meets monthly to continuously prepare for emergencies and to discuss Department of Public Health' s updated information.
Animal Control Division Maintained compliance with the Massachusetts Department of Public Health 105 CMR 300 & 330 Division of Animals regarding the keeping of animals, rabies control, and mosquito control.
Weights & Measure Division Maintain compliance with Massachusetts Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation Division of Standards. Achieved full State Compliance Consumer & Merchants Protection Act, Chapter 295.
31 30 businesses inspected and checked; 100 scale certificates of compliance issued. 10 gas stations inspected and checked; gas meter certificates of compliance issued.
2018 Goals The Health Division will continue to work with the Board of Health, Town staff, volunteers, elected officials, and community partners to support the essential functions of public health for the Town of Reading. This work includes:
Monitoring the Town' s public health status to identify community health problems. Diagnosing and investigating public health problems and environmental health hazards. Informing, educating, and empowering the community about public health issues. Mobilizing community partnerships to identify and solve public health problems. Developing policies and plans that support Town residents and community health efforts. Enforcing public health laws and regulations that protect the health and wellness and ensure safety of the community. Directing the community to needed personal public health services and assure the provision of health care when otherwise unavailable. Assuring a competent public health and personal healthcare workforce. Evaluating effectiveness, accessibility, and quality of individual and population-based health services. Researching new ideas and innovative solutions to public health problems.
Division staff will also maintain: Involvement with the community in helping assist in public health issues such as opioid abuse, addition and treatment services. Adequate community public health services. Participation in the 3B Public Health Coalition.. On-going efforts as part of the Healthy Communities Tobacco Collaborative. Outreach into the community to promote awareness of emergency preparedness for emerging public health issues including pandemic flu, bioterrorism, natural disasters and emerging diseases.
Board of Health In accordance with M.G.L. Chapter 41, the Board of Health is comprised of three ( 3) appointed officials by the Board of Selectmen; these positions are one- year terms with one member being appointed annually. The Board of Health holds monthly meetings. Additional meetings are scheduled if required. In 2017, the Board of Health members were: John Costigan— Chairman, Andrew Friedmann, and Elizabeth Shurland, Kevin Sexton, Heidi Pfeifer with Associate Member Nancy Docktor.
In 2017, the Board of Health was staffed by Robert Bracey and Laura Vlasuk — Health Agent, Donna Pierce and Sue Swansburg - Public Health Nurse ( part-time), Joan Vitale— Senior Health Inspector (part-time), Robert Bracey— Public Health Consultant( part-time), John Fralick— Food Inspector Consultant( part-time), Darlene Foley— Administrative Secretary and Kristen Grover— Administrative Specialist. 32 RECREATION
The mission of the Reading Recreation Division is to provide the community with year round recreational activities. Recreation programs are broad based to meet the recreational needs of all segments of the population. The Recreation Division must continually update and modify its programming to meet the current needs of the community. As the community' s participation in and awareness of local recreational programs increase, so do their expectations of Recreation Division programs. The Recreation Division must be ready to anticipate and adapt to these growing expectations and trends.
Jenna Fiorente was promoted to the Recreation Administrator role in November 2015 ( from Rec. Program Coordinator) and has worked for the Town for 6 years. Jenna has continued her programming responsibilities, bringing excitement to programs. She has worked hard surrounding herself with seasonal staff members who she trusts and knows will do a good job for the Division when called upon. Jenna is also responsible for managing playground and field projects as well as renting out all of the fields in Town. In 2017, she facilitated the Hunt Park Playground Renovation.
Sue Simeola has been with the Recreation Division for 9 years. She is the Administrative Assistant of the Division. Sue handles many of the records for the Division including payment plans, outstanding balances, medical records, CORI records, Payroll, etc. Sue also helps out with events such as travel basketball tryouts and pre- fit night, Halloween parade and Downtown Trick or Treat. Sue handles much of the faceto- face and other customer services and is the glue of the Recreation Division.
The vacant Program Coordinator position is expected to be filled in 2018. Continuing to provide the staffing needed for a busy Recreation Division is an ongoing challenge. The Recreation Administrator continues to work with leaders of the sports organizations to develop other field opportunities within what is already provided. Ideally, adding lights to existing fields is the best way to expand field usage.
The Reading Recreation Division and the Recreation Committee continue to develop policies that will increase the effectiveness and efficiency of each Reading Recreation program.
Reading Recreation has been glad to offer the public over 400 recreational programs and events throughout the past year. The most popular programs are Saturday Night Lights Flag Football and Recreation Summer Camp. Reading Recreation hopes to meet the communities changing recreational needs while providing them with a combination of safe, fun, and educational programs. Suggestions of new programs are welcomed and encouraged.
33 VETERANS' SERVICES
The Veterans' Services Office is the main point of contact for advocacy and support of veterans. A full range of benefits and services are available to veterans and their families based on certain qualifications and eligibility requirements. State Veterans' public assistance is mandated by Chapter 115, Mass. General Laws, 108 CMR Commonwealth of Massachusetts Regulations. This program assists eligible Veterans and their families with income maintenance, medical care and emergency services. The number of beneficiaries and expenditures has remained level. Through continued outreach, new residents have been identified and are now receiving benefits. At the same time, some individuals have been removed from the rolls due to non- qualification and through VSO assistance in finding employment or financial assistance through other State or Federal programs. The State repays 75% of these costs in the following fiscal year through State aid payments.
Applications for federal benefits are also processed through this office, coordinated with the regional office of Department of Veterans Affairs and various Veterans Administration medical and support facilities. A new Veteran claims management software solution called VetraSpec was recently implemented. VetraSpec is an internet based solution that improves submission times, and overall accuracy, and will save countless hours communicating with federal agencies. Demand for these services is steadily increasing to include claims for veteran, dependent and survivor pensions, Aid & Attendance, Dependency and Indemnity compensation, medical and death benefit entitlement, along with GI Bill Education benefits. In the past year, Reading residents received over $3. 5m in compensation and pensions from the VA.
The VSO provides outreach to veterans to ensure they are aware of and utilizing additional State benefits to include tuition waivers, motor vehicle benefits, property tax exemptions, annuities and bonuses, counseling, employment assistance, housing assistance and many more. Our goal is to accurately identify and obtain necessary assistance in a timely manner that veterans and their families have earned and deserve. The VSO is available during the Reading Lions Club Reading Friends and Family Day, the Fall Street Faire, and other public information gatherings. He has attended school functions and worked with scouting programs to promote overall awareness and appreciation of Veterans and their sacrifices.
The Veterans' office works with other Committees to coordinate public events such as annual Memorial Day services at all four Reading cemeteries and Veterans Day ceremonies throughout the Town. On Memorial Day the Town honored Fire Control Man, Third Class William Hansen who was killed May 17, 1987 aboard the USS STARK while on patrol in the Persian Gulf. William was a 1987 graduate of Reading Memorial High School. A bronze plaque was placed in the High School as a remembrance of William' s ultimate sacrifice.
The Veterans group " Scuttlebutt" continues to be a very popular gathering. The meeting is held the first Thursday of each month, at 10: 00 AM at the Pleasant Street Senior Center. It is open to all Veterans and those interested in Military history. Members enjoy the comradery of fellow sailors and soldiers, share sea stories and other personal experiences, learn and discuss the Military history of the month and enjoy guest speakers and historical movies. The group took a trip to visit the USS Constitution and attended the Collings Foundation Wings of Freedom Tour in Beverley. 34 The Veterans' Services office hours are Monday, Wednesday and Thursday, 7: 30 AM—5: 30 PM andTuesday 7: 30 AM—7: 00 PM. Home and off-hour appointments are available upon request. The VSO will bring services to the veteran and their families wherever they are and whenever they need assistance. You may reach Kevin Bohmiller at 781- 942- 6652 or kbohmillergci.readin . ma.us.
Mystic Valley Elder Services
In FY17 over 661 Reading residents used Mystic Valley' s services valued at $3, 286,375. Of these, 110 were eligible for Nursing Facility care while remaining at home.
Mystic Valley Elder Services is a nonprofit organization, which has been helping people find practical solutions to long term care issues since 1975. Our goal is to help seniors, disabled adults and their family caregivers find the best available services that fit within family resources. We offer a wide range of services creatively designed to support the challenges of daily life and independent living. Some are free of charge, others are offered on a sliding fee scale or private pay basis.
Information & Assistance: Resource consultants offer FREE advice and referrals from our extensive database of local, state and national resources. Assistance is available by telephone, email or a home visit by an experienced Care Manager. 275 Consumers served at a Cost of$ 25, 729
Care Management & Home Care Services: A range of programs for seniors designed to provide assistance with activities of daily living bathing, dressing, etc.) for those who wish to remain in their own homes. Includes: in- home assessment by a care manager, development of a care plan, and delivery of approved services. 290 Consumers served at a Cost of$ 3, 084, 646
Caregiver Support: Services may include an in- home assessment, caregiver training and education regarding such areas as memory loss, home safety, respite care and fall prevention. Provides useful resources especially for working and long distance caregivers. 9 Consumers served at a Cost of$ 10, 456
Meals on Wheels: A mid- day meal and daily check in by a friendly driver for those over 60 who are homebound and unable to prepare their own food. 18, 359 Meals served at a Cost of$ 107,617
Senior Dining Sites: Centers in 20 locations offer seniors an opportunity to meet and enjoy a nutritious lunch. Ethnic meals are available. 4, 255 Meals served at a Cost of$ 28, 012
Behavioral Health Services: Clinical Caseworker provides outreach and connects consumers to behavioral health services in home and community settings. The program provides assistance with coordination and payment of behavioral health services.
35 13 Consumers served at a Cost of$ 10, 545
SHINE Health Benefits Counseling: Trained counselors provide seniors with no- cost, confidential counseling and unbiased information regarding health insurance and prescription drug options. 335 Consumers served at a Cost of$ 7, 339
Money Management Assistance: Trained volunteers provide assistance with bill paying, budgeting and banking tasks. A volunteer may also serve as a Representative Payee. 7 Consumers served at a Cost of$ 8, 444
Volunteer Program: Dedicated volunteers augment the agency' s capacity by sharing their expertise with a variety of professional and administrative functions, providing bill paying assistance to elders, counseling Medicare and MassHealth recipients, staffing congregate meal sites and/ or food pantries, and serving as literacy tutors in area elementary schools. 25 Volunteers performing 1, 851 hours of service
Legal Assistance: No- cost legal assistance and education on issues such as public benefits, landlord tenant disputes and loss of independence. 6 Consumers served at a Cost of$ 2, 157
TRIP Metro North: A free, passenger- controlled transportation program open to older adults and adults living with disabilities. 2 Consumers served at a Cost of$ 1, 430
Trails Committee The Trails Committee met eight times in 2017. Trail Committee members and volunteers put in over 220 hours building structures and maintaining trails. The Trails Committee accomplished the following during the year:
1. The Trails Committee led or co- led the following walks in collaboration with Walkable Reading: a. A Winter Walk in Bare Meadow in January, followed by cocoa and cookies at the Mattera Cabin. There were more than 50 participants. b. A Fall Foliage walk in the Town Forest with more than 20 folks in attendance.
2. Conducted site walk to the following: a. Two visits to Low Meadow in the winter for the purpose of exploring the feasibility of constructing a new trail there. b. Two visits to the Maillet Conservation Land off of Hunt St. to research the feasibility of constructing a trail along the sewer easement and to gather information for a MA Trails Grant application to fund this trail construction.
36 3. Attended meetings and/ or monitored projects that included:
a. Low Meadow b. 1260- 1264 Main St.
c. 42- 48 Franklin St. AKA Barton Estates d. Urged CONS CCOM to fund Bare Meadow Habitat Study.
4. Four members of the Trails Committee attended the MA Trails Conference and made a
presentation.
5. Participated in the following Town-wide events: a. Earth Day b. Friends and Family Day
6. Sponsored a` Birds Before Breakfast" walk in May in Bare Meadow and at the Mattera with more than 20 people attending.
7. Did extensive clearing and trash pick-up at: a. The Pinevale St. Conservation area b. The Kurchian Woods conservation land. c. Fall/windstorm cleanup: Bare Meadow, Kurchian, and Town Forest
8. Conducted three work events in the Town Forest that included: a. prep work for the extension of the Alligator Ally boardwalk. b. extended Alligator Alley boardwalk 10 ft at the Wood End end. c. Extended the Alligator Alley boardwalk by 32' at the Council Ring end.
37 FINANCE DEPARTMENT
The Finance Department, under the direction of the Town Accountant, supports a wide variety of financial and administrative functions. The Finance Department staff are designed to be flexible and experienced in many of these divisions as work flows vary throughout the year: a.) Accounting: The Accounting Department is responsible for maintaining financial records. These records facilitate the preparation of financial reports and schedules that provide meaningful, accurate information for comparability and for management' s decision making process. The Accounting Department ensures that all financial transactions are in compliance with legal requirements and are properly recorded on a timely basis. The Town used the auditing firm of Melanson & Heath in FY 2017. b.) Assessors: Assessment of property is the first step in the process of tax revenue collection for the Town of Reading. The Assessment division' s function is to provide for the fair and equitable assessment of all taxable real and personal property. A three- member Board of Assessors sets policy. c.) General Finance: Collections is responsible for collecting all taxes and other charges including ambulance and water/ sewer/ storm water bills). They also receive and process all deposits ( such as schools and recreation). Treasury is responsible for providing the cash for the operation of all Town, School and Light Department functions on a timely basis. In addition, it conducts all borrowing and investing activities, including those on behalf of the Town' s Trust Funds ( assisted by the Trust Fund Commissioners).
Finance: Assessment Division Assessment of property is the first step in the process of tax revenue collection for the Town of Reading. The Assessment Division' s function is to provide for the fair and equitable assessment of all taxable real and personal property. The Assessors trend the values each year so that the revaluations done every three years won' t result in substantial changes. The Assessors must annually determine the tax levy and obtain State approval of the tax rate so that bills can be issued in a timely manner.
The tax rate for FY 2018 was set at $ 13. 87 per thousand for residential and $ 13. 92 per thousand for commercial, a $ 0. 16 decrease per thousand from the FY 2017 rate for residential and $. 11 decrease for commercial. The total assessed value of all properties and accounts for FY 2018 is
4. 874 billion which is a 5. 4% increase from the previous year.
The breakdown of Reading property for FY 2018 is as follows: Assessed Value Share Change Residential 4, 487, 967, 153 92. 1% 5. 6% Commercial 330, 600,339 6. 8% 2. 6% Industrial 10, 947, 800 0. 2% 2. 0% Personal 44, 836, 110 9% 5. 7% TOTAL 4, 874, 351, 402 100. 00% 5. 4%
38 Finance: Collection Division The Collection Division is responsible for collecting all taxes and other charges ( including ambulance and water/ sewer/ storm water bills). This Division also receives and processes all deposits ( such as schools and recreation).
Massachusetts does not allow Towns to pay any charges associated with electronic collection of tax bills —such as a flat fee or credit card fee. Debit card usage is comparatively inexpensive, and an economical method to pay online.
Electronic Payments (* to 12/ 31/ 16) CY17* CY16* CY15* CY14 CY13 Registered Users 6300 5481 4847 4250 3741 Electronic Payments 5325 4300 3606 3218 2636
Municipal lien certificates have increased due mainly mortgage refinancing activities. Foreclosures dropped off from a high in 2008, in sharp contrast to economic measures nationally.
Municipal Lien Certificates Fee increased 121112010 Issued Fees FY17 918 $ 44, 250 FY16 773 $ 41, 350 FY15 786 $ 42, 000 FY14 702 $ 37, 600 FY13 1251 $ 66, 450 FY12 1170 $ 61, 400 FY11* 1107 $ 40, 525 FY10 859 $ 24, 875 FY09 969 $ 26, 901 FY08 743 $ 22, 350 FY07 698 $ 21, 252
Foreclosures (Foreclosure deeds recorded at the Registry of Deeds as of 12/ 31/ 16) 2017 8 2016 10 2015 3 2014 2 2013 6 2012 5 2011 10 2010 18 2009 111
39 Real estate taxes collected were $ 63. 8 million - a 3. 9% increase from the $ 61. 4 million in the previous year. Personal property taxes collected decreased to $ 0. 490 million from $0. 561 million; and Excise tax collections increased to $ 3. 72 million in FY17 from $ 3. 65 million in FY16.
Finance: General Division This Division is responsible for providing the cash for the operation of all Town and School functions on a timely basis. In addition, it conducts all borrowing and investing activities, including those on behalf of the Town' s Trust Funds.
Interest earnings for the General Fund during FY17 were only $400, 450 - a few years ago this figure was about $ 1. 7 million before interest rates began their historic drop.
General Finance - Trust Funds:
FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017
Beginning Balances 9, 025, 026 $ 9, 125, 527 $ 9, 289, 189 $ 9, 556,486 $ 9, 679, 907
Contributions 91, 384 $ 115, 146 $ 130, 471 $ 98, 048 $ 147, 727
Disbursements 262, 441) ($ 275,268) ($ 269, 343) ($ 301, 176) ($ 288, 521)
Interest 271, 558 $ 323, 783 $ 406, 169 $ 326, 549 $ 389, 274
Ending Balances 9, 125, 527 $ 9, 289, 189 $ 9, 556,486 $ 9, 679, 907 $ 9, 928, 387
The Trust Funds disbursed over $ 1. 39 million in the past five years as shown in the table above. The Hospital Trust Fund continued to provide aid through the Reading Response Program, which provides skilled health care services, respite care, medical transportation and Lifeline Emergency call systems to Reading residents who meet specific health and income guidelines.
Ending Ending Ending Ending Ending 1- year Balance Balance Balance Balance Balance Change
FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017
Cemetery 3, 926, 015 $ 4, 021, 156 $ 4, 169, 742 $ 4, 251, 156 $ 4, 419, 110 3. 9% Hospital 4, 246, 326 $ 4, 302, 000 $ 4, 408, 337 $ 4, 466,461 $ 4, 529,404 1. 4% Library 61, 301 $ 59, 095 $ 61, 692 $ 63, 814 $ 66, 397 4. 0% Scholarships 173, 145 $ 172, 384 $ 171, 706 $ 168, 174 $ 166, 477 - 1. 0%
Veterans Memorial 112, 472 $ 119, 634 $ 122, 613 $ 116, 544 $ 117, 066 4% Downtown Imp 37, 208 39, 593 $ 49, 035 23. 8% 37, 363 $ 37, 378 Celebration 44, 106 $ 43, 923 $ 45, 853 $ 42, 863 $ 42, 286 - 1. 3%
Historic 76, 613 $ 79, 409 $ 83, 331 $ 79, 080 $ 82, 286 4. 1% Preservation Elder Services 422, 850 $ 427, 823 $ 428, 271 $ 423, 727 $ 428, 012 1. 0% Loans 25, 490 $ 26, 401 $ 27, 561 $ 28, 509 $ 19, 202 - 32. 6%
Respectfully submitted,
Sharon Angstrom, CPA Town Accountant
40 Board of Assessors The mission of the Reading Assessment Department is to provide fiscal stability by promptly, fairly and equitably determining the valuation of all real and personal property located in the Town of Reading. The Assessment Department is obligated under law to assess all property at its full and fair market value as of January 1 of each year for the purpose of taxation. This is accomplished through the maintenance and administration of all property tax data records. In addition, the department also administers motor vehicle excise tax, real, personal and motor vehicle excise tax abatements, and all statutory tax exemptions as allowed by law.
Our staff is comprised of an elected three-person board and three full-time employees.
Board of Assessors: Office Staff: Francis Golden, MAA, Chairman Victor P. Santaniello, MAA, Dir. of Assessments Robert N. Marshall, MAA Phil Canniff, Assistant Appraiser Michael Golden, MAA, Secretary 2 Clerks
During the past year, the major activities undertaken by the Assessors office include: Provided online access to our property record database via the internet. Conducted a state mandated interim revaluation of all properties. Reviewed and adjusted properties to reflect updated market conditions. Completed a revaluation of all personal property accounts and canvassed town for new accounts. Maintained and updated all real estate and personal property tax records. Developed Reading Senior Circuit Breaker Program.
Special projects and future goals of the Assessment Department include: Manage ongoing state-mandated data recollection effort. Continue review and update of valuation neighborhood designations. Continue ongoing sales verification questionnaire mailing program. Implement new and efficient office policies and procedures as required. Maintain supplemental assessment program as required by state law. Update existing tax maps. Make select state tax forms available via the internet. Increase public awareness relative to assessing and exemptions.
FISCAL YEAR 2017 TAX RATE SUMMARY
Total amount to be raised 104,926,984.35
Total estimated receipts 40, 060, 188. 15 Residential Tax Rate: $ 14. 03 Commercial Tax Rate: $ 14. 03 Real Property Valuation 4, 581, 024, 624 Personal Property Valuation 42, 410, 600 Total valuation of taxable property 4, 623, 435, 224 Total real estate tax 64, 271, 775. 48
Total personal property tax 595, 020. 72 Tax levy 64, 866, 796. 20
41 FISCAL YEAR 2017 RECAP SUMMARY PAGE 1 Property Levy Percentage Valuation by Tax Levy by Class Class Rates Class Residential 91. 8840% 4, 248, 195, 850 14. 03 59, 602, 187. 78 Exempt Open Space 0. 0000% 0 Commercial 6. 9666% 322, 096, 774 14. 03 4, 519, 017. 74 Exempt Industrial 0. 2321% 10, 732, 000 14. 03 150, 569. 96 SUBTOTAL 99. 0827% 4, 581, 024, 624 - 64, 271, 775. 48 Personal 0. 9173% 42, 410, 600 14. 03 595, 020.72 TOTAL 100. 0000% 4, 623, 435, 224 - 64, 866, 796. 20
MINIMUM RESIDENTIAL FACTOR COMPUTATION( FY2017)
Class Full and Fair Cash Value Percentage Share 1. Residential 4, 248, 195, 850 91. 8840% 2. Open Space 0 0. 0000% 3. Commercial 322, 096, 774 6. 9666% 4. Industrial 10, 732, 000 0. 2321% 5. Personal Property 42, 410, 600 0. 9173% TOTALS 4, 623, 435, 224 100. 0000% Minimum Residential Factor 1 MRF)
ASSESSMENT/ CLASSIFICATION REPORT—FY2017 Property Type Parcel Class 1 Class 3 Class 4 Class 5 Count Residential Commercial Industrial Personal Prop. Value Value Value Value 101 6, 544 3, 491, 464,400 102 1, 301 433, 415, 600 Misc. 103, 109 12 7, 003, 000 104 308 155, 746,650 105 28 15, 495, 800 111 - 125 35 117, 967, 700 130- 132, 106 216 8, 470, 600 300- 393 198 309, 470, 100 400- 452 15 10, 732, 000 Ch.61 Land 3 544 Ch.61A Land 0 0 Ch.61B Land 3 1, 151, 330 012- 043 27 18, 632, 100 11, 474, 800 501 168 5, 703, 320 502 178 10, 016,390 503 0 0 504, 550- 552 3 14, 162, 840 505 3 10, 614,900 506 1 996,200 508 4 916,950 TOTALS 9, 047 4, 248, 195, 850 $ 322, 096, 774 $ 10, 732, 000 $ 42, 410, 600 REAL& PERSONAL PROPERTY TOTAL VALUE 4, 623, 435, 224 TOTAL VALUE OF ALL EXEMPT PROPERTY 301, 897,400
42 LOCAL EXPENDITURES
Total appropriations 103, 551, 532. 15 Other Local Expenditures 0 Snow and ice deficit/ Overlay deficits 0 Allowance for abatements and exemptions 695, 178.20
Total state and county charges 649, 427 Total cherry sheet offsets 30, 847 Total of appropriations and expenditures 104, 926, 984.35
ESTIMATED RECEIPTS AND AVAILABLE FUNDS State cherry sheet estimates 13, 894, 645 Ma school bldg. auth 0 Local estimated receipts 9, 163, 003 Enterprise funds 13, 420,916
Free cash 2, 289,480. 34
Other available funds 1, 292, 143. 81
Offset receipts 0 Total: 40, 060, 188. 15
STATUTORY EXEMPTIONS Clause FY 2016 FY 2017 Hardship 5- 18 0 0 Deferral 5— 4 1 A 0 0 Elderly 5— 41C 13, 500 13, 500 Veterans& Surviving Spouses 5— 22( a f) 69, 047 71, 112. 52 Surviving Spouses 17D 2, 100 2, 800 8- 58 0 0 Blind 5- 37 6, 500 7, 000
BETTERMENTS, SPECIAL ASSESSMENTS& LIENS Category Total Committed Amounts by Category Light Liens 3, 142.44 Sewer Liens 158, 534. 92 Water Liens 145, 009. 04 Storm Water 7, 810. 54 Sewer Betterments 1, 941. 48 Various Interest 64,222. 87 Sewer Pipe Maintenance Lien 265. 00 Total Committed 380,908. 29 Motor Vehicle Excise( Comm. 1- 6, 99) 24, 865 Bills 3, 883, 801. 46
Respectfully submitted,
Board of Assessors
43 PUBLIC SAFETY
Fire Department The Reading Fire Department is responsible for four major functions: bre suppression, bre prevention, the emergency medical system and emergency management. This Department is also responsible to coordinate and apply for all reimbursements for State and Federal disaster declarations.
The Reading Fire Department provides emergency medical treatment at the Advanced Life Support level ( ALS) of care to sick and injured patients. This is the highest level of pre-hospital care available and we are continually expanding this program as the budget permits.
Emergency management continues to expand in importance. The primary goal for Emergency Management is to identify areas of vulnerability to the community, to prepare for all disasters whether natural or manmade, to coordinate the response of a wide range of agencies and assist in the recovery phase. A secondary goal is to ensure the Town of Reading is in compliance with all Federal and State requirements to enable the community to remain eligible to receive reimbursement for Federal and State disaster declarations.
Emergency Activit In 2017 the Fire Department responded to 3, 837 emergency calls for assistance. Emergency call volume has increased 10% from 2016 to 2017. Of the total emergency responses 2,275 involved some level of emergency medical response. A review of our Massachusetts Fire Incident Report data indicated we responded to 30 fires defined as structure fires, 9 fires in mobile equipment
and 20 outside fires. All of these fire incidents were required to be reported to the State Fire Marshal.
Significant Events: Major Fire: At 1: 20 P.M. on Thursday, June 1, 2017 the Fire Department responded to a major fire at 52 Sanborn Street. This building is a large forty unit, 5 story masonry and wood residential building that was built as a high school in the early 1900' s. The building was renovated and converted to a residential building in the early 1990' s. The building was only partially equipped with fire sprinklers with limited coverage to the two stairways and common hallways. The individual living units, and structural void spaces were not protected with a fire sprinkler system.
The initial alarm of fire was received through the municipal fire alarm system. Firefighters arrived on scene, investigated and found a heavy fire condition in apartment 402 and immediately began the fire attack. Interior fire operations continued until 2: 13 P.M. when all Firefighters were removed from the building so bre operations could be changed from an interior attack to an exterior attack. The exterior attack was continued until conditions improved. Once the flames were reduced in size, the exterior large fire streams were shut down, the building was allowed to drain, and an interior fire attack began again. This
44 procedure was repeated three times throughout the 11 hour firefighting operation. Fire suppression operations were completed at 12: 37 A.M. on Friday, June 2, 2017.
This fire highlighted the strength and depth of the Metrofire mutual aid system. Twenty mutual aid Fire Departments responded to assist in fighting this fire. Communities that responded included: Andover, Boston, Burlington, Cambridge, Chelsea, Everett, Lexington, Lynnfield, Lynn, Melrose, Medford, Malden, North Reading, Saugus, Somerville, Stoneham, Wakefield, Wilmington, Winchester and Woburn.
Of the 119 Firefighters that fought the fire, 29 were Reading Fire Personnel, 15 were Chief Officers and 75 were Fire Personnel from responding communities. The fire apparatus and equipment response consisted of. 17 Engines, 5 Ladder Trucks and 4 Tower Ladders, the Department of Fire Services Rehab Unit, Boston Sparks Association and Rehab 5 and 2 Armstrong Ambulances used as stand-by ambulances.
Hazardous Materials Incident: On Saturday, March 11, 2017 Reading and Wakefield Firefighters responded to Route 128 South at the Walkers Brook Drive overpass for a gasoline tank truck rollover. The crash involved a tanker that contained 11, 000 gallons of gasoline and another car. The Reading Fire Department, Wakefield Fire Department, District 2 Hazmat Team, Massport Fire, Reading Police and State Police responded. The extremely low temperatures and the 9 hour on scene time made operations difficult. Through the combined efforts of all on scene the gasoline was off loaded from the tank and the tanker was towed from the scene without a significant leak in product.
Reading Firefighters responded to our neighboring communities to assist in extinguishing several structure fires, some examples include:
On Sunday June 11, 2017 Reading Firefighters responded to a 7 alarm fire in Lawrence. Three multi-unit residential buildings were destroyed and 5 other multi-unit buildings were damaged.
On July 23, 2017 Reading Firefighters responded to Waltham to assist with suppression efforts of a 10 alarm fire.
Assistance to Firefighters Grant: We received a competitive Assistance to Firefighters Grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency. The total grant award is $ 175, 300 with a Federal share of 90% and a 10% Town match. Under this grant we will purchase 26 self-contained breathing apparatus ( SOBA), 26 spare cylinders, 2 rescue packs and 5 air monitoring meters.
New Pumper: On Thursday, May 18, 2017 we took delivery of a new fire pumper designated Engine 3. This truck features an innovative temperature controlled EMS compartment. This compartment will store our EMS supplies and equipment in the proper temperature range so they will perform as designed. The Department of Public Works was responsible for a great deal of the fabrication of this compartment.
45 Emergency Medical Services: The Reading Fire Department provides an Advanced Life Support Level ( ALS) of care to the community and this allows Reading Firefighters to treat patients with a wide variety of medications and sophisticated treatment techniques. This level of care is essential to patients who are experiencing a medical emergency that is an immediate threat to their lives.
Our emergency medical program is coordinated by Firefighters Joseph Lapolla and John Keough. We also receive clinical oversight and direction from Dr. Alec Walker from Melrose Wakefield Hospital.
The Town has provided funding to the Department to purchase high fidelity simulation manikins to improve our training program. This will enable us to significantly improve our EMS training and as a result improve the care we provide to the community.
On September 21, 2017 we purchased a new ambulance. It has been placed into service and is performing well.
Total ambulance responses and ambulance transports continue to trend upward. In calendar year 2017 Firefighters responded to 2,275 total emergency medical incidents and this represents a 10% increase over 2016 responses. There were a total 1, 219 of ambulance transports and this represents an increase of 3. 5% over 2016 transport data. Below in Figure I is a graph of ambulance responses from 2010 through 2017:
Ambulance Responses
2_500 ...
2000 ...
1_500
1000
500 ......
2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017
Figure I
Ambulance revenue is down slightly from 2016 levels. In Fiscal year 2017 $ 790,921 was collected in ambulance revenue. Ambulance revenue received for medical treatment is variable based upon the patient' s insurance, level of treatment and the services provided. Below in Figure 2 is a graph of ambulance revenue from 2010 through 2017
46 Ambulance Revenue
1, 000. 000 ....
800, 000 ....
600, 000 ....
400, 000 ....
200, 000 ....
0 .. FY 10 FY 11 FY 12 FY 13 FY 14 FY 15 FY 16 FY 17
Figure 2
Emergency Management: Emergency Management is an active component of the Department. Housed within Reading' s Emergency Management System are three components, Emergency Management, the Local Emergency Planning Committee and the North East Homeland Security Region (NERAC). NERAC is one of the 5 Massachusetts homeland security regions created by the Executive Office of Public Safety.
Federal and State legislation requires every community in the country to have a Local Emergency Planning Committee ( LEPC). The LEPC identifies areas where the population is most at risk from a hazardous materials release, facilities and transportation routes that contain hazardous materials and resources that would be used to mitigate an incident.
To pool resources the Town of Reading has joined with other communities and formed the Mystic Regional Emergency Planning Committee. The Mystic Regional Emergency Planning Committee has grown to nineteen member communities and is designed to facilitate the sharing of resources in the event of an emergency. The Mystic Regional Emergency Planning Committee has achieved Full Certification Status by the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency.
The Reading Fire Department has developed a Hazardous Materials Emergency Plan to meet both Federal and State statutory planning requirements. For the Town of Reading the Fire Chief is the Local Emergency Planning Committee Chairman.
Keeping current with State and Federal requirements is required to remain eligible for reimbursement of expenses when a Presidential Disaster Declaration is granted. Since 2001 we have seen an increase in storm events being eligible for reimbursements due to Federal disaster declarations. Over this period the Town of Reading and Reading Municipal Light Department has received a total of$ 1, 393, 577 in reimbursements for emergency response and damage to infrastructure. Below in Figure 3 a is graph indicating the year and event Town of Reading received reimbursement under a Federal Disaster Declaration since 2001.
47 FEMA Reimbursements
400, 000 350, 000 300, 000 250, 000 200, 000 150, 000 100,000 50, 000 0
6
1 Z
Figure 3 ....
The Town of Reading received an Emergency Management Performance Grant for $6,460. This grant was used to offset the Fire Department' s cost of a joint Police and Fire training program.
Fire Prevention: The fire prevention duties are assigned to the Day Officer. This position is staffed by Captain Richard Nelson and he is responsible to ensure all life safety systems for new construction and renovations are designed and installed properly. This requires pre- construction meetings, plan review, code research and continual site visits to ensure proper installation. In 2017 the Department issued 584 permits and monitored several building renovations. Major projects include Pulte Homes and Artis Senior Living.
For existing buildings, the Day Officer is responsible to ensure all life safety systems are maintained properly. Other areas of responsibility include ensuring the safety and code compliance of flammable and combustible product storage.
Regional Initiatives: Captain Richard Nelson and Firefighter Scott Dole are both active members of the Essex County Technical Rescue Team. This is a highly trained team with specialized tools and training to handle a wide range of rescue operations. The team is trained to rescue victims trapped in confined spaces, trench collapse, high angle and building collapse. Captain Nelson was activated with the by the North East Technical Rescue Team for support of the Boston Marathon
Firefighter Stephen Pelrine is an active member of the Massachusetts District 2 Hazardous Materials Team. This team is highly trained and responds regularly to a wide variety of hazardous material releases, and potential releases, to support and assist local Fire Departments.
48 SAFE and Community Education: Our community education program consists of our school based SAFE Program and the Senior SAFE Program. Funding for these programs is provided by two State grants that total $7, 336. Lieutenant Mark Dwyer is coordinating the Senior SAFE program and Firefighter John Jenks is coordinating our school program.
The S. A.F. E program is funded by a $ 4, 540 grant and features Reading Firefighters who are trained as S. A.F. E educators. These Firefighters visit each school classroom of Kindergarten through grade 5 to deliver the fire safety and anti- smoking message. Firefighters use a specially designed trailer that is shared by the Metrofire District to present a very real fire scenario to the students. Using this training aid, the children are taught lifesaving skills in a controlled setting that is not possible to duplicate in the classroom.
Our Senior SAFE program is funded by a $2,796 grant that is designed for senior citizens. Statistically, seniors have a high rate of fire injuries and our program has been designed to increase the safety of this population. This year Captain Dwyer gave several group presentations, made home visits to the elderly and assisted needy elderly residents with the installation of smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
Fire Alarm: The municipal fire alarm system in Reading is in good condition. This is a direct result of the planning, care and maintenance given to the system by our dedicated Fire Alarm Technicians, Michael Holmes, Brian Ryan and Bruce Ayer. When appropriate, we are connecting new and remodeled buildings to the municipal fire alarm system to ensure a rapid response to an incident.
In addition to servicing and maintaining the municipal fire alarm system the Fire Alarm Technicians put up and take down the Town of Reading' s flag display and Christmas decorations on the decorative light poles in Reading Square. These displays take a considerable amount of time to install and remove.
Personnel: This year we have seen considerable changes in personnel. Captain Philip Boisvert retired in June after completing 34 years of service, Firefighter Michael Homes retired after completing 31 years of service and Firefighter David Roy retired Firefighter after completing 30 years of service.
Garrett Antanavica was promoted to Acting Captain and Brian Ryan was promoted to Lieutenant and Firefighter Jonathan Dyer was hired.
Conclusion: Over the last year we have striven to make advancements in all areas of the Department. We have increased the level of training for our personnel, introduced new technology and equipment and aggressively pursued resources through public safety grants. The Advanced Life Support Program has been expanded to all fire apparatus and continues to provide Reading residents with the highest level of emergency medical care in this area. The condition of our fire apparatus is excellent and this increases our efficiency and capability at the scene of emergency.
49 I would like to thank all Town Officers, Boards, Departments, members of the Reading Fire Department and especially the citizens of Reading for their continued high level of support and assistance.
Respectfully submitted,
Gregory J. Burns Chief of Fire Department
50 Reading Fire Department Roster Chief of Department Gregory J. Burns
Assistant Chief: Paul D. Jackson
Captains: Paul F. Guarino Mark F. Dwyer Philip B. Boisvert^ Richard L. S. Nelson Peter L. Marchetti Garrett Antanavica—
Lieutenants: Scott Myette Anthony Delsignore Eric Blackman Brian Ryan—yan—
Firefighters:Fireb hgters: Michael Holmes" Paul Roy Robert Loring David Roy" Derek Loftus Robert Drake Patrick Wallace Dana Ballou Daniel Pouliot Stephen Pelrine Thomas McCarthy John Keogh Robert Beck Sean Devlin Matthew Berger Stephen Murphy Bruce Ayer Brian Yeager David Robidoux Paul Dalton John Messer David Gentile Ryan Buckley Eric Bagby Michael Belmonte Joseph Lapolla Robert Forsey Michael Wood Paul Damocogno Eric Beaulieu Scott Dole David Ferreira Brian Roche John Jenks Steven Binari
Secretary Cynthia M. Keenan
Promoted to fill vacancy Hired to fill vacancy Retired
Fire Department Statistics for 2017
Permit Fees collected ( FY 15) 22,975
Ambulance Fees Collected ( FY 15) $ 790, 921 Total Emergency Responses 3, 837 Emergency Ambulance Calls 2, 275 Inspections 1, 071
51 Police Department The Reading Police Department is committed to providing the highest level of public safety and service to the citizens and business people within the community. The members of the Department are empowered to enforce the laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and Bylaws of the TOWN OF READING to ensure that the peace and tranquility of our neighborhoods are maintained and that crime and the fear of crime are reduced. We emphasize and value integrity, honesty, impartiality and professionalism from our members in order to create an environment that values differences and fosters fairness and flexibility in our mission. We encourage citizen input and interaction that will assist us in developing sound partnerships between the community and police. Working together we can protect our future and enhance the quality of life for everyone within the town.
This report summarizes the participation, activities, sponsorships, enhancements, accomplishments, and other notable events of the Reading Police Department in Calendar year 2017.
Personnel Changes: The following personnel changes and adjustments were experienced by the Police Department in calendar year 2017.
January 2017 Detective Michael D. Saunders retired after 32 years of service to the department.
Lieutenant David M. Stamatis retired after 32 years of service to the department.
Dispatcher Alyssa Bryan resigned as a dispatcher.
Sergeant John T. McKenna was promoted to Lieutenant.
Sergeant Kevin M. Brown was promoted to Lieutenant.
Armorer Justin P. Martel was promoted to Sergeant.
Officer Matthew C. Edson was promoted to Sergeant.
Officer Patrick A. Dawley became the Armorer.
Andrew J. Kirwan was hired as a Patrol Officer and attended the Massachusetts State Police Municipal Academy in New Braintree.
52 March 2017 Officer Joseph J. Belmonte retired after 19 years of service to the department.
Zachary T. Fontes was hired as a Patrol Officer and attended the Reading Municipal Police Academy.
Benjamin J. Woodward was hired as a Patrol Officer and attended the Reading Municipal Police Academy.
April 2017 Dispatcher Aimee Lowery resigned as a dispatcher.
June 2017 Antonio Degirolamo was hired as a dispatcher.
Nicole Janey was hired as a dispatcher.
July 2017 School Resource Officer Michael A. Muolo was promoted to Detective.
Officer Michael S. Scouten became the Traffic and Safety Officer.
August 2017
Officer Brian P. Lewis became the School Resource Officer.
Awards, Recognitions and Other Noteworthy Events:
December 2017. AAA Southern New England presented the Reading Police Department with The Gold Award of Excellence— recognizes achievements in traffic safety.
Patrol Division: The Reading Police Patrol Division is the core of policing services in the Town of Reading. The Patrol Division falls under the command of Lieutenant John T. McKenna during daytime operations and Lieutenant Kevin M. Brown Jr. on nights ( Both promoted to the position of Lieutenant January of 2017). The Patrol Division is comprised of 2 Sergeants and 7 Patrol Officers during the day; and 5 Sergeants and 11 Patrol Officers on nights. It currently operates 12 marked vehicles; 3 Crown Victoria' s ( 1 Patrol; 1 Detail; 1 Swat), 6 Ford Police Interceptor' s; 5 Patrol and 1 Safety Officer Vehicle), 2 Chevy Tahoe' s ( Supervisor Unit and one dual purpose vehicle), 1 Ford Explorer for the SRO. In addition to standard patrol vehicles, the Reading Police Department' s Patrol Division also uses 4 pedal bikes and from time to time will augment patrol as well as unmarked units.
The Patrol Division is the most visible section of the police department, providing around the clock service to the citizens and visitors to Reading. They are the uniformed officers who 53 provide the first line of defense for the public' s safety. Each law enforcement patrol officer works to protect life and property, uphold the civil rights of individuals, preserve public peace, provide citizen assistance, enforce criminal and motor vehicle laws, and respond to emergency situations. These officers are dedicated and committed professionals who place their lives and well- being in jeopardy for the citizens of Reading on a daily basis.
The men and women of the Patrol Division are responsible for; enforcing state and municipal laws and regulations designed to protect life and property; maintain order in an assigned sector or beat; patrol the community to preserve the peace and to prevent crime; take criminal reports and interview witnesses and suspects; apprehend fugitives and criminals; collect evidence and give testimony in court; conduct investigations for all misdemeanor and many felony cases; direct traffic, issue traffic citations, investigate accidents, and make arrests; participate in crime prevention, public information, and safety programs. Patrol officers maintain closer contact with the public than any other section of the police department.
Most likely, the first person the public meets will be the uniformed patrol officer. The men and women of the Reading Police Department' s Patrol Division take great pride in serving the citizens of Reading. The Patrol Division is the backbone of the police department. In 2017, the Patrol Division issued 3, 941 moving violations, made 151 arrests, filed 335 criminal complaint applications, and answered 20, 851 calls for service throughout the Reading Community.
A total of 1, 928 reports were written and 567 motor vehicle crashes were investigated. The Patrol Division responded to 1, 112 alarm calls, 354 suspicious person calls and 235 suspicious motor vehicle calls.
The Patrol Division is responsible for managing many quality of life issues. In 2017 the division responded to 231 mental health related calls, 65 calls for suicide attempts and threats to commit suicide, 39 overdoses, 201 calls involving alcohol, 38 calls involving opiates, and 157 calls involving other drugs. The division responded to 19 calls for missing adult persons and 9 calls for missing juveniles, filed 28 orders with the Department of Children and Families as required by MGL ch- 119- s51A for child abuse and or neglect.
The Reading Police Department also maintains specialized units functioning within the Patrol Division. Two of these are the Mountain Bike Operations Team and the Rapid Response Team which are overseen by the Day Shift Patrol Division Commander.
The Mountain Bike Unit is comprised of 8 Officers who operate the 4 pedal bikes, which work on various shifts. These Officers are able to respond quickly to areas differently from the traditional response vehicle and also offers another level of Community Service by being in the public view on an additional level.
The tactical professionals of the Rapid Response Team ( RRT) are Patrol Officers who are part of Northeastern Massachusetts Law Enforcement Council ( NEMLEC). These officers are activated into a team with other surrounding cities and towns on a moment' s notice. These Officers have further expertise designed to assist, access, and mitigate extremely volatile situations by making use of specialized equipment and additional manpower. The Reading Police Department 54 currently has two Patrol Officer' s that are part of NEMLEC RRT and one of the officers is assigned to the highly trained SWAT Team.
Each section of the Reading Police Department is designed to work separately and augment the other departments to achieve the collective goal of maintaining a safe community. This is achieved by regular operations of all divisions and delivering customer service via daily interactions with the public and utilization of community policing initiatives.
Detective Division: The Detective Division is the liaison of the Police Department to other law enforcement agencies, including other local police departments; the Massachusetts State Police; the Registry of Motor Vehicles; the Attorney General' s Office; and the County District Attorney' s Office along with the Reading Public Schools, Austin Preparatory School as well as the Northeast Regional Vocational School in Wakefield.
Outlined are a number of activities the Detective Division was involved in for 2017.
The Detective Division handles all court matters, including processing the court paperwork for all arrests, summons, hearings, restraining orders, citation appeals, and any other pertinent issues that deal with the court. The Division makes all officer notifications for court appearances, gives information on the status of on- going cases. In addition, the Division is responsible for all discovery requests by the Commonwealth and Defense, which requires a significant amount of time to compile. All juvenile cases that meet the standard for diversion are monitored to make sure all of the obligations set forth for the juvenile are met.
Major Crimes the Detective Division investigated this past year included Sexual
Assaults/ Rapes, B& E's, Larcenies, Sudden Deaths/ Suicides/ Overdoses, Child Enticement, Missing Person, Possession of Child Pornography, Narcotic Investigations, multiple reports from DCF, Frauds, and Cyber- Crimes. In addition, the Detective Division reviews all patrol reports, and conducts investigations on numerous other types
of crimes.
The Detective Division Commander, and the appointed Evidence Control Officer are the custodians of and accountable for the control of all property retained as evidence and stored in the department' s Evidence Room.
The Detective Division registers and monitors all Level 1, 2 and 3 Sex Offenders that live and/ or work in Town. In addition, Detective's makes the required community wide notifications.
The Detective Division reviews all new/renewal or change in manger applications for Alcohol Licenses or any modifications for existing licenses. Over the past several years as the town's business district as has grown, the number of license applications, license transfers, and change in manager applications has increased substantially. 55 Detectives conducted alcohol compliance checks of all licenses and completed surveillance patrols to monitor underage drinking violations throughout the year. In June, twenty-five liquor license locations were checked with zero violations for ` sale to a minor'. Since police compliance checks were launched in 2008, the average pass rate is 96% for local liquor establishments.
The SRO continues to be involved with " Community Based Justice" which brings all interested parties together to discuss current student issues which are involved at some level with the court system.
The SRO and Detective Division held numerous ALICE ( Alert, Lockdown, Inform, Counter, Evacuate) trainings with all school personal, and conducted ALICE drills in each school in the district and Austin Prep. As this program has become more established in the school system, the schools are taking on more responsibility in conducting these exercises on their own.
A Detective continues to work with FBI to their, " Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force". With this assignment, he works on numerous high level narcotics investigations both locally and nationally.
In January of 2014 the Detective Division activated the Reading Police Departments Facebook. We currently total to 4, 385 followers. In addition, the Division has been maintaining the Department's Twitter page. The Twitter page currently has 10. 5K followers, up from 7, 719 in 2016. In 2016 our Twitter account was " Verified" through Twitter. The verification is used to establish authenticity of identities on Twitter and helps users discover high-quality sources of information and trust that a legitimate source is authoring the account' s Tweets. This accomplishment is highly sought after and difficult to obtain. Besides those that follow us directly, our messages get shared to thousands more on a regular basis. These pages allow the Department to get important public safety information out quickly including information on; road closures, special events, press releases, weather related concerns, Level 3 Sex Offender notifications, and safety tips. We have seen a significant increase in communication with citizens and other agencies contacting us through these sites.
Detectives processed 111 anonymous tips via the Department's Text-a-Tip program. Crime tips were related to drug activity, domestic violence, juvenile protection, unlicensed firearms, animal protection, noise complaints, impaired driving, cyber- crimes, harassment, neighborhood concerns, and traffic safety.
The SRO participated in monthly RCASA Board of Directors meetings and quarterly special events. SRO assisted with drug paraphernalia awareness
Detectives worked in conjunction with RCASA to collect and properly destroy prescription drugs through the " RX Round-up" program. This past year 8, 211 bottles were collected and destroyed compared to 6, 690 in 2016.
56 Detectives are responsible for compiling crime statistics for numerous types of reports and grant obligations throughout the year.
Detectives are responsible for maintenance and technical issues for the Departments Crossmatch fingerprint machine.
Members of the Detective Division attended many training programs in the areas of, cybercrime investigation, search warrant preparation, domestic violence, drug and narcotics investigatory techniques, legal updates, and prosecution.
In May, Detectives participated in the New England Narcotic Officers Association 47h NENOA) Annual Drug Conference from May 24- 26 in Rhode Island. The NENOA represents over 900 law enforcement professionals in the region. RCASA provided travel funds through their federal grant project for officers to participate in courses on cyber prescription drug crimes, undercover operations, narcotics trends, fentanyl and first responders safety, and the Butane Hash Oil process ( marijuana product).
Lt. Det. Abate, represented the Detective' s Diversion to present diversion highlights at the Middlesex DA Eastern Opioid Task Force in December.
Background investigations were conducted for new Officers and Dispatchers
Detective Criminal Investigations = 150
Support Services Division: The Reading Police Department is here to serve the Town of Reading and we look forward to continuing our existing efforts and are always looking for more opportunities to work with you, our community, to address criminal activity, traffic and safety problems, quality of life, and community development issues in the Town. The Police Department strongly promotes the philosophy of" working with the community".
The Support Services Division is staffed with a division commander Lieutenant Christine Amendola. In the Support Services Division are the Traffic and Safety Officer, the Community Service Officer, the Armorer, the Parking Enforcement Officer, the Animal Control Officer, and the Crossing Guard Unit. The Support Services Division oversees all department training, equipment, and vehicles.
The Department sponsors or participates in a number of community events and/ or programs. The following are a number of those:
Community Service:
The Police Department is represented on the Human Relations Advisory Committee HRAC) by Deputy Chief David Clark.
57 CSO O' Shaughnessy partnered with the Middlesex Sheriffs Office to educate the Senior Citizens at various locations about protection from existing and emerging scams known as the L.E.A.R.N Program. The department established the " Coffee with a Cop" program locally. Citizens are invited to join police officers for coffee and discuss any issues of concerns. There were four successful events during the past year. CSO O' Shaughnessy became a member of the Respond High Risk Team which is responsible for follow up care on all high risk domestic violence cases. CSO O' Shaughnessy is an active member of the towns Human & Elder Affairs Committee. She also schedules monthly lunches at the Senior Center, which provides them a chance to speak to the police and keep updated on certain crimes they are at risk for. The department instructed two Rape Aggression Defensive ( RAD) programs for women, training over 35 women in self-defense. Held Annual Police Open House in May. The department was open to the public for tours. The Lions Club provided child safety kits, there were many police vehicles to observe and other various activities for the children. The Support Service Division hosted a blood drive in coordination with the Kraft Family donation center for Dana Farber Research and The Brigham and Women' s Hospital. The Citizen's Policy Academy conducted a nine week academy and graduated over 30 individuals. In this academy citizens are invited to learn about all aspects of policing here in Reading. It is a great interaction between the residents and officers. CSO O' Shaughnessy conducted the Child' s Bike Helmet Incentive Program. In coordination with local businesses, officers were able to reward children for wearing their required bike helmets with either a free pizza or ice cream ticket. In May, Bike Patrol Officer Matthew Edson participated in the RMLD Bicycle Day and presented information on bicycle safety. In June, the department participated in a law enforcement challenger baseball game with the Reading/North Reading Challenger Baseball League. In June, the Department participated in Friends and Family Day held at Birch Meadow. In October, the Department in conjunction with its labor unions organized its annual Senior Ham and Bean Supper at the Senior Center. CSO O' Shaughnessy participated in the Middlesex DA' s Office safety event in Woburn. Many department personnel participated in the No-Shave November and raised several thousand dollars for the Veteran Red Sox Homebase Foundation. CSO O' Shaughnessy participated in four Cops for Kids with Cancer donation events.
Traffic and Safety: Throughout the year, the Department participated in the Governor' s Highway Safety Bureau' s " Click- it or Ticket" program. This program is an intensified traffic enforcement effort subsidized by a grant that targets specific traffic issues, such as seat belt use, or impaired operation. In September, the Department was awarded a grant to participate in the Governor' s Highway Safety Bureau' s Pedestrian Crosswalk Safety Initiative ($ 1500). The officers stopped motorists who failed to yield to the decoy
58 pedestrian in the crosswalk. The campaign raised pedestrian awareness and educated the motoring public on crosswalk safety. 40 traffic stops were executed; yielding 40 citations. Safety presentations conducted at Cobblestone Family Day Care, Little Treasures Pre- School, Joshua Eaton School, Wood End School, and for various Cub Scout packs. Reading Police Station tours conducted for various Brownie Troops and Cub Scout Troops. Safety literature was provided to all of the Elementary School Principals for key points in their weekly news bulletins. Topics included bicycle safety, snow safety, and stranger safety. Traffic assistance was provided for many town events, including: The Barrows School Fun Run, Joshua Eaton's School Jaguar Jog, The Downtown Trick or Treat, Fall Street Fair, Friends and Family Day, and St. Agnes Christmas Eve Mass, as well as many other private events. Safety Officer Scouten is a member of the Town's Parking Traffic Transportation Task Force. He is accountable to bring all residential and business safety or traffic concerns to the board. A total of 15 Work Orders were executed for new and replacement signage throughout the town. The Speed Alert Trailers were deployed to more than 70 locations in efforts to reduce speeding motorists.
Firearms Licensing: Armorer Patrick Dawley processed 541 gun licenses to include new firearms permits and renewal applications.
Crossing Guards: The school crossing guards are part-time, civilian personnel. Currently there are nineteen permanently assigned crossing guards and four spares. They fill in when a regular crossing guard is unable to cover his/ her post. They are under the direct supervision, coordination, and control of Safety Officer Michael Scouten. Each crossing guard plays an essential role in the safe commute of children to and from school. They also serve as an extra set of eyes and ears for the police department and the community as well. These crossing guards have proven to be devoted to their duties and are a great asset to the Town of Reading.
59 Animal Control: The Animal Control Officer is Ronald Burns and he works 13 hours per week and is on call for emergency situations. There were more than 270 calls for service received by the Animal Control Officer. There were 12 dog bites over the year resulting in injuries to humans. There were seven dog to dog bites resulting in veterinary care. There was one cat bite to humans reported. Those that tested negative for rabies were quarantined for 10 days. There were over 15 coyote sightings reported. There were 250 citations issued to residents for failure to keep their dog on a leash, failure to license their dog, or for biting and disturbing the peace. The majority of the calls were received from neighbors complaining about other dogs. There were four bat calls which tested negative for rabies. The Animal Control Officer is authorized to isolate and confine domestic animals suspected of being exposed to rabies. Acting according to state regulations and guidelines, Animal Control Officers must:
Investigate reports of domestic animals exposed to rabies. Determine if the domestic animal has or may have been exposed to a rabid animal, and if the domestic animal has been properly vaccinated. Make an evaluation of the exposure of the vaccinated animal and prescribe the appropriate action according to state regulations. Obtain permission to euthanize exposed, unvaccinated animals from their owners or
from the Massachusetts Department of Food and Agriculture. ( MDFA) Carry out euthanasia permitted by the animal owner or MDFA. Collect the head of the euthanatized animal and deliver or send it to MDPH State Laboratory Institute, if the animal has bitten or otherwise exposed a human or domestic animal. Inspect residential and licensed kennels that house four or more dogs. Ensure that vaccinated domestic animals receive a booster vaccination if needed, and that the animal remains under appropriate strict confinement or isolation. Contact local officials when exposed domestic animals have exposed humans. Although the Animal control Officer is not responsible for handling wildlife calls, he evaluates such calls and assists where possible. He provides contact numbers for the appropriate State or private agency to handle wildlife issues beyond the Town' s control.
Parking Enforcement Officer: The Parking Enforcement Officer is Ronald Burns. He works 18 hours per week. The major responsibilities of the Parking Enforcement Officer are:
Identify and cite motorists who violate Reading' s parking regulations and reduce opportunities for violations to be committed through preventive patrols of all parking areas. Identify parking problem areas within the town and forward this information to the Safety Officer. Perform related duties as required.
60 Public Safety Dispatch The Reading Public Safety Dispatchers deliver, through communications, a lifeline for the community, Police Officers, and Firefighters. Ten full time Dispatchers are under the direct supervision of Head Dispatcher Victoria Avery and under the command of the Night Shift Patrol Division Commander Lieutenant Kevin Brown. Dispatchers provide support to the Officers, Firefighters, EMT' s, Paramedics, and other ancillary personnel within the departments, as well as, outside agencies to augment emergent and non- emergent operations via radio, phone, and
computer related activities. Dispatchers receive requests for information and services, triage based on available resources and disseminate accordingly. Dispatchers manage 911 and administrative calls, supply Emergency Medical pre- arrival instructions when necessary, and furnish customer service and information to the public, and provide valuable service to our
community.
The Dispatch team had positive staffing changes that brought new faces to the team, with the staffing level now at 10.
Each year, Dispatchers participate in various trainings to expand their knowledge and present a higher level of service.
Dispatchers issued 4, 252 Community Access Stickers and are presently issuing both the Parking and Compost stickers in the new format. The Communications Team also has two volunteers that assist with issue and entering the stickers.
The Dispatch section is the face of Reading Public Safety and in most cases, they are the first, first-responders, and the initial interaction the public has with a Public Safety agency.
61 The following is the Department Roster, a statistical analysis of our enforcement efforts and a record of revenues generated by our department for calendar year 2017.
READING POLICE DEPARTMENT 2017 ROSTER
CHIEF OF POLICE Mark D. Segalla
DEPUTY CHIEF OF POLICE David J. Clark
PATROL DIVISION Lt. John T. McKenna Lt. Kevin M. Brown
SERGEANTS Mark J. O' Brien Christopher R. Picco Christopher E. Jones Patrick R. Silva Corey P. Santasky Justin P. Martel Matthew C. Edson
PATROL OFFICERS
Christopher J. Voegelin Anthony F. Caturello David V. Savio Michael R. Lee Keith D. Hurley Salvi A. Lavita Sean M. Wilson Ian A. Nelson Erik W. Drauschke Mark R. Mullen Laura M. Bullis Matthew B. Vatcher Matthew J. Orr Kaylyn A. Gooley Timothy L. Barrett Scott A. Craven Andrew J. Kirwan Zachary T. Fontes Benjamin J. Woodward
DETECTIVE DIVISION Lt. Det. Richard P. Abate
Detectives: Derek R. Holmes Michelle E. Halloran Robert J. MacHugh Jr Michael P. Fitzgerald Michael A. Muolo
School Resource Officer: Brian P. Lewis
62 SUPPORT SERVICES Lt. Christine M. Amendola
Community Service Safety Officer Armorer/Fleet Maintenance Officer Kristen L. O' Shaughnessy Michael S. Scouten Patrick A. Dawley
Reading Police Department 2017 Ancillary Personnel
CLERKS Administrative Assistant Victoria Cummings Administrative Secretary Joanne Power
DISPATCHERS Head Dispatcher Victoria Avery
Christopher Finnegan Debra Haynes Ryan Mahoney Joseph Pagnotta Regina Saunders Susan Tapley Jennifer Antczak Kevin Edmonds Antonio Degirolamo Nicole Janey
ANIMAL CONTROL OFFICER/ PARKING ENFORCEMENT OFFICER Ronald Burns
SCHOOL CROSSING GUARDS (s= Spare)
Cindy Asci Mildred Barton John Cain Art Dickinson Peg Faulkner
Bob Dewolfe James Hubbard Lucy Intonti Tina Lantz Marsha Leighton
Ann Lipchus Joe Lopiccolo Louann Kris McNiel Dick Prudente MacKinnon Rosemary Barbara Wilson Linda Burns Thomas Claude Miller (s) Violante Gardner Peter Robert Carole Scrima Joe Veno ( s)
Indrisano( s) Matarazzo ( s) s)
63 Service Statistics calendar year 2017: Arrests 151 Protective Custody 77 Motor Vehicle Citations 3, 941 Parking Violations 2, 268 Detective Criminal Investigations 150 Automobile Crashes Investigated 567
Fees Collected calendar year 2017: License to Carry Permits 6,375. 00 Firearm Identification Cards 162. 50 Police Reports Copied 1, 130. 00 Parking Fines 57,370. 00 Administrative Fees for details 20.558. 43 Community Access Stickers 84, 355. 00 Parking Space Rentals 45, 390. 00 Civil Motor Vehicle Infractions 28,522. 42 Community Room Rentalfee 560. 00 Motor Vehicle Lease Surcharge 2,467.20
Conclusion: To summarize our Mission Statement, we are empowered to enforce the laws of our land, but in order to do this appropriately and adequately we have to work with the community. Providing the community with the highest level of police service is a goal that will require dedication, hard work and a strong commitment to and from our community.
I want to thank the citizens of our community for their support and cooperation. Working with the community your police department will accomplish its mission.
Respectfully submitted,
Mark D. Segalla Chief of Police
64 Reading Coalition Against Substance Abuse (RCASA) Reading Coalition Against Substance Abuse ( RCASA) mobilizes community partners, residents and youth to build collaborative approaches and reduce youth substance abuse. With grant support, RCASA offers educational programs for residents in Substance Abuse Prevention, Youth Mental Health First Aid and Active Parenting. To address substance use, staff operates a juvenile diversion program in concert with the Reading Police Department and a Chemical Health Education Program with the Reading Memorial High School. To increase access to mental health services, RCASA sponsors the Interface Referral Service, operated by William James College. Learn more at www.reading.kl2.ma.us/ community/rcasa
FINANCE- The Director compiled federal reports for annual grant funding totaling $ 125, 000. For this fiscal year, the town, school and police departments contributed match resources for RCASA' s office/ meeting space, supervision, and oversight. During this year, the Director and Town Accountant worked with SAMHSA to address the closeout of the AWARE and STOP Act Grants from the last fiscal year. The SAMHSA Auditor requested information and we responded to that request. The Auditor approved amendments to close out the previous projects.
SAMHSA Grants Supporting RCASA Annual End White House Office of National Drug Control Policy 125, 000 9/ 30/ 19
We are implementing our sustainability plan. The Director presented to the Board of Selectman twice during this year regarding the need for future town funding for staff positions. The Director presented to four local groups to increase donations. Staff increased collaboration with the Chamber of Commerce to host a special event to raise the coalition profile and soften the ground for future fundraising and partnerships. The Director carved out discrete opportunities for sponsorship of specific coalition programs or activities. Board members discussed issues of sustainability at monthly board meetings.
We accepted donations totaling $4, 250--( Young Women' s League of Reading ($ 2, 000), First Congregational Church($ 250), and the Hospital Board of Trustees ($ 2, 000). In December, the Reading Hospital Trustees awarded $4, 000 to RCASA to support a portion of the INTERFACE Referral Project for 2018. This will be the final year of trustees funding.
STAFF- This year, the RCASA staff included 1. 64 full time employees with strong prevention and addiction expertise. They are employees of the Town of Reading and maintain an office at the Reading Police Department. The Project Director oversaw personnel, fiscal management, public relations, and coordinated collaborative coalition work, including community planning, training, coalition communication, data collection, dissemination, reporting, and program evaluation. The Outreach Coordinator coordinated project services and project activities, including training, communication and information dissemination. The OC is a Certified Alcohol and Drug Addiction Counselor.
LEADERSHIP- RCASA' s Board ofDirectors met monthly and served as the core leadership group for the coalition. The group includes 26 members representing 12- plus community sectors who live, work, or attend school in Reading. The Town Manager, School Superintendent, and Chief of Police all serve on the board. The Board provided overall governance, education, public 65 relations, and strategic plan guidance. Membership increased this year for Parent Liaisons. The Board received training and guidance on federal grant lobbying restrictions. The Town provided an " Ethics Guide for Ballot Question Political Activity" for town staff, appointed town officials, elected officials, and other roles associated with town government.
GOALS 1. REDUCE SUBSTANCE USE among youth and, over time, among adults by addressing the factors in a community that increase the risk of substance abuse and promoting the factors that minimize the risk of substance abuse 2. IMPROVE COMMUNITY COLLABORATION among RCASA' s partner organizations in support of the community' s effort to prevent and reduce youth substance use
OUTCOMES- RCASA received their report from the federal evaluator. We demonstrated progress in reducing substance misuse and strengthening community collaboration. In Rx misuse in the past 30 days, there was a 3% decrease at the both the middle and high school levels from 2011- 2017. For alcohol use in the past 30 days at the high school level, rates dropped by 12% from 2011- 2017. For alcohol use in the past 30 days at the middle school level, rates dropped by 6% from 2011- 2017.
Prevention activities under the DR UG FREE COMMUNITIES GRANT are described below:
COLLABORATION- Staff and law enforcement representatives participated in regional monthly meetings including the Mystic Valley Public Health Coalition on Opioid Abuse, Eastern Middlesex DA' s Task Force, and the Woburn Police Roundtable on Opioid Abuse. Staff disseminated regional information to the community and board leaders to deepen their understanding of current opioid concerns. We responded to 10 requests for information from other communities on how RCASA has developed our policies and programs.
Staff participated in valuable professional development opportunities to enhance our knowledge. The Outreach Coordinator attended the Cape Cod Symposium on Addictive Disorders. The RCASA Director completed training on the SEARCH Institute' s Asset Model.
RCASA adult volunteers and youth members participated in Board of Health hearings to amend tobacco regulations to increase the minimum age of purchase from 18 to 21 years old, to remove flavored products from current tobacco retailers, and to limit flavored products to only tobacco shops if they come in to Reading. The Board of Health approved all three changes.
Coalition leaders supported a town election to vote against hosting a recreational marijuana shop, store or lounge in Reading. A separate town election was necessary due to the wording of the ballot initiative that was approved by voters in Nov. 2016. The Town Election was successful and recreational marijuana will be unable to be sold in our town. This project was led by parents and local elected officials.
COMMUNITY OUTREACH- In March, the Middlesex District Attorney conducted a presentation to 20 members of the community on opioid use at the Reading Senior Center.
66 RCASA engaged two police officers and the Deputy Chief to be part of the event. We provided onsite medication collection and disseminated Dterra med disposal pouches.
The Director facilitated 56 hours of first aid training this year certifying 97 adults in Youth Mental Health First Aid. Three classes were offered in Reading certifying 55 adults ( 47 school staff, 8 community members). Four classes were offered in Stoneham resulting in 42 adults certified (5 school staff, 37 community members).
RCASA assisted with a Substance Use Awareness evening hosted by a local college student at the First Congregational Church in March. The Pastor and others who attended shared their personal experiences. The RCASA Outreach Coordinator and a representative from Learn 2 Cope Support Group were able to provide feedback and resources. The Pastor, a past RCASA Board member, joined with other clergy to promote the # State Without Stigma" campaign.
RCASA staff assisted 15 high school educators and 5 clinicians in addressing the premiere of 13 Reasons Why, a Netflix Series, with themes of substance use, sexual assault, suicide and family communication. Staff viewed the content, provided resources for teens and parents, and met with RMHS staff. A letter was sent to parents and Clinicians hosted a discussion group for students.
In August, the Police Chief and Superintendent joined efforts to address vaping use by sending a joint letter and educational information to 35 local health professionals and pediatricians.
In May and September, RCASA Board Liaisons attended two Sunday services at Old South to share their personal recovery stories and to answer questions.
RCASA coordinated a six-month planning process to host a series of events in September. The theme was " Join the Voices for Recovery: Strengthen Families and Communities" RCASA accepted the Recovery Month proclamation from the Board of Selectman. RCASA's booth at the Reading Fall St. Faire featured a recovery theme staffed by coalition volunteers and staff. RCASA & the Chamber of Commerce hosted the Business Community at Fusion Restaurant reaching 15 adults. The event focused on ways to prevent, reduce, or intervene in substance abuse in the workplaces. The First Congregational Church hosted an RCASA blanket-making booth at their 2- day Church Faire. Volunteers from Old South Methodist Church also promoted the activity. At the Annual Meeting, church members presented 54 homemade blankets to be matched with children that experience opioid- related trauma. RCASA hosted regional partners and 80 people at Reading Memorial High School to hear from speakers, exchange resources, and & remember loved ones through the luminaria walk. RCASA' s Annual Meeting featured the Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan & Dr. Ruth Potee as keynote speakers. The event drew 100 people.
In addition to recovery month, RCASA presented on Substance Abuse & Community Resources at the Reading Citizen Police Academy educating 26 adults. We conducted three presentations on Data Trends for the Reading School Committee ( 12 adults); High School PTO ( 24 adults);
67 and Parent University (7 adults). In October, we hosted a Guest Speaker at Reading Memorial High School with the Guidance Department on Strategies.for Managing Anxiety featuring Lynn Lyons that drew an audience of 300 adults. From August-November, we provided support and resources to FRIENDS OF JAKE, a planning group of young adults from Reading to host the first.lams for Jake event. The event, hosted in November, featured local musicians and recovery resources reaching an audience of 300.
YOUTH ENGAGEMENT- Youth leaders represented RCASA at the 2017 Massachusetts Kick Butts Day and participated in leadership development training on working with public officials.
Staff and School Resource Officer met with small groups of students to conduct Opioid
Prevention Workshops in the spring and fall (reaching 320 students). The Director presented in the High School' s Child Development Course on Substance Exposed Newborns in the fall of 2017 reaching 25 students. The Outreach Coordinator facilitated a Test Your Knowledge workshop for Boys Scouts at Old South Church, reaching 30 youth.
The 2017 SBIRT( Screening, Brieflntervention & Referral to Treatment) screening went smoothly with 326 freshman students eligible for screening. The Nurse at the high school conducted the SBIRT along with vision, hearing and postural screens. Two parents submitted opt out forms to withdraw their children from screening. Based on how the 324 students responded to questions during screening, the nurse provided educational info and positive reinforcement, a motivational interview, or referral to additional services. Of those screened, 319 students received positive reinforcement; three participated in motivational interviewing; and one student referred to services. RCASA conducted the data entry and referral functions. Eleventh graders will be screened in 2018.
The Outreach Coordinator provided case management for teens referred by the Reading Police Pre-arraignment Diversion Program. The Outreach Coordinator and the H. S. Health Educator facilitated the Chemical Health Education program monthly. Staff also contacted parents and provided resources.
The RCASA Director worked with a High School student from to plan a video project. We are collecting brief statements from high school students and their teachers that address the struggles they might have faced in middle school or messages of hope, support or encouragement. We will turn them into a video for our middle schools called DEAR 13 YEAR OLD ME.
DATA ANALYSIS- 1) The Director served as the 2017 YRBS Survey Coordinator and developed the Survey Results Presentations. The Survey Consultant is Rothenbach Consulting. 2) The Rx Round Up kiosk continues to see an increase in drop offs from residents. In 2017, 8, 211 Rx bottles were processed. This reflects a 19% increase compared to 2016. Since 2009, residents turned in 35, 273 Rx bottles. 3) To assess the number of opioid overdoses, the staff tracked log reports, reviewed death certificates, and analyzed info from DataVis.
PUBLIC RELATIONS- We expanded our communication strategies using print, online and in person approaches. RCASA staff used Twitter to increase event attendance including twitter.com/rcasa15 ( 153 followers compared to 73 in 2016) and twitter.com/ReadingPolice
68 10. 5K followers). We maintained the website at Reading Coalition Against Substance Abuse with the support of Reading Public Schools and continue to send out our newsletter( 600 people). Local cable access taped the business breakfast and Annual Meeting. Staff were interviewed for an episode of" Reading Public Schools Today" by Sherri VandeAkker that aired on RCTV.
69 PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT I am pleased to submit the 2017 annual report for the Department of Public Works.
I would first like to thank the Board of Selectmen and Town Manager Bob LeLacheur for all their help and support over the past year.
In addition, I would like to specifically thank all supervisors for their continued support, cooperation and dedication, as well as all other members of the Department for their continued hard work, cooperation, and pride, which is evident in the excellent professional service and programs you provide, and projects you complete.
The succession process/ reorganization within the department has been nearly completed, with the exception of replacement of long time Parks/ Forestry/Cemetery Supervisor, Bob Keating, who retire in early June 2017; it is our goal to fill this position early in 2018. The now in place, supervisory structure includes Jane Kinsella, ( Assistant Director), Peter Isbell ( Supervisor Water/Sewer), and George Strazzere ( Supervisor Highway/Equipment Maintenance), and Ryan Percival (Town Engineer).
Department personnel continue to be actively involved as members or liaisons to a number of Boards and Committees ( examples of this being our coordination/work with the Town Fall Street Faire Committee, Town Trails committee, Town Forest Committee, and Cemetery Board of Trustees).
We also assisted other Departments throughout the year on many projects and programs, as identified in the following report, with the Recreation Department being our most active customer.
The Engineering Division continues to be extremely active with a number of ongoing projects approximately 20 between FY17 and FY18), including outside agency project oversight/ inspection monitoring on West Street regarding work from MA DOT ( complete), National Grid, and MWRA on Oak Street ( included utility, paving, drainage, sidewalk construction work — complete). Also, the engineering design/ inspection/construction, process was completed on a number of in- house projects including, Grove street ( water main/drainage), Bond Street( drainage/paving).
In addition, the town continued with its aggressive road paving program, with the paving/repair of 15 streets ( 2.7 miles 1. 2 million dollars), construction of the new sidewalk on Oak Street, as well as ongoing repairs to a number of sidewalks throughout town. Upon final completion, the town pavement condition index ( PCI), improved from approx., 71% a few years ago, to approx. 79%; which is excellent, and a testament to the town for committing to its road improvement program funding for a number of years. Also, our continued pavement maintenance program, including crack sealing, skim coating, and pothole repairs, remains a key part of our program.
Town meeting also authorized the continuation of our major water and sewer capital improvement programs, which was initiated in 2014, that will only further enhance the town' s water quality and infrastructure for generations to come. 70 Projects currently under design, and to be bid early in 2018 include approx. 14, 000 feet of water main rehabilitation work on Main Street, as well as a total reconstruction of the Charles Street sewer pump station.
The Department continued its town wide customer service program titled " See- Click-Fix", where residents can, via on- line or mobile application, initiate requests for services, or report on issues that need departmental attention, including potholes, missing signs, hanging tree limbs, etc.
It is a program much embraced/ utilized by town residents ( over 350 requests/ inquiries were received if 2017 alone).
Discussions had been initiated with the Town of North Reading and the Mass Water Resource Authority ( MWRA), regarding the potential of wheeling water through Reading into North Reading. At the present time North Reading officials are still weighing out their options, including continuing its current program of purchasing water from the Town of Andover; more to come! MWRA is projected to continue its aggressive capital/ infrastructure improvement program, in hopes of this potential becoming a reality sometime in 2020, following much infrastructure improvement work in both communities.
The department also participated in a number of professional development/safety training programs including driver fatigue, snow plowing, chainsaw safety, injury prevention, work zone safety, effective communication in the work place, work place harassment, department wide licensing upgrade classes, etc., many of which were sponsored by MIIA, the town' s insurance carrier. These ongoing programs not only continue to professionalize the department, but help to reduce the town' s insurance obligations. The town continues to be recognized as a leader/ innovator in the development implementation of numerous safety programs and techniques, as well as an extremely robust professional development program.
The town continued, ( year 2), of its 10 year trash removal/recycling program with JRM, with the recycling component continuing to run in the 30% range, which is exceptional for a non-pay as you throw community. Reading continues to be a leader in this area, with a number of communities copying our exact program.
The department continued its success in applying for and receiving outside grants, including one from DEP in the amount of$ 1, 250 to be used in our recycling program, as well as a MIIA Safety grant for $ 15, 000, for an outside nighttime construction safety lighting array, to be used during various excavation projects, and emergency situations.
As you will see in the individual Division reports, the Department continued to be extremely active in 2017 with our many projects, programs, and ongoing daily type maintenance work; while continuing to assist and service the general public on a daily basis. All this work requires a major teamwork/group effort approach to accomplish. It is a credit to the staff that these major high profile projects were completed in a timely, cost effective manner, while at the same time, performing the daily, routine tasks needed to serve our residents.
I am confident that in the year ahead this department will continue on its path of excellence.
Jeffrey T Zager, Director of Public Works
71 ADMINISTRATION COMMENT
The Administration Division supported the Department with procurement administration, budget preparation and coordination, departmental personnel and payroll services, accounts payable processing, cemetery administration services and responses to public inquiries and concerns over all Public Works areas of responsibility.
Significant projects included:
Project support and contract management for contracts throughout the public works divisions including highway projects and supplies, water and sewer main projects, fuel, salt, snow removal, and rubbish and recycling. Coordination of( 2) Household Hazardous Waste Day collection events with the Town of Wakefield. Coordination of( 2) events for paper shredding, rigid plastic recycling, and metal pickup Coordination of( 5) town-wide leaf pickups Coordination of drop- off recycling for Styrofoam and electronics Overall facilitation of the Water Conservation Rebate Program: Appointment scheduling, rebate processing and tracking of high-efficiency washing machines, low-flow toilets, and irrigation system rain sensors, and rain barrels. Significant strides have been gained in reducing disposal tonnage. Increased recycling efforts through continued media and educational initiatives have led to new programs and new initiatives being instituted. See- Click-Fix enables residents to enter issues such as potholes, downed tree limbs, and water leaks into the system. The system is monitored by the Administration and work orders are routed to our supervisors and foreman in the field.
Emphasis continued on providing public information, responding to inquiries and concerns, and improving all areas of public communications.
CEMETERY DIVISION
To the Board of Cemetery Trustees
The following is from office records for calendar year 2017.
Interments — 127 Interments for all years — 15, 282
Markers set—34 Foundations —28 Monuments re- set—2
72 Sale of Lots
Forest Glen— 6 lots in the Urn Garden, Total for all years — 2, 089 lots, 799 single graves.
Charles Lawn — 8 lots, 4 single grave, Total for all years 538 lots, 271 single and veterans graves.
Wood End— 30 lots and 3 single graves —Total for all years —518 lots, 45 single graves.
Cooperation from other divisions of Public Works was outstanding and much appreciated. The Board of Cemetery Trustees has been very supportive of all the numerous programs and goals of this division. I thank them for all their assistance.
Respectfully submitted— Joseph Kingston, Foreman
Custodian of Veteran' s Graves —Calendar year 2017
Interments —WWII—13 Korea— 9 Vietnam— 1 Iraq- 0 Peacetime - 0
Total of all veteran' s interred— 1, 903
As has been the custom for many years, all veteran' s graves were decorated with a flag and a potted flower for Memorial Day.
Respectfully submitted— Frank Driscoll, Custodian of Soldiers and Sailors Graves.
ENGINEERING DIVISION
The Engineering Division provides engineering services to all Departments within the Town of Reading. The Division is responsible for: preparation of plans, contract documents, specifications and estimates; survey layout, inspection, design and construction management of Town construction projects; upkeep of traffic markings and traffic signals; review of subdivision plans and site plans for accuracy and conformance with the subdivision and site plan rules and regulations; review of conservation submittals, preparation of subdivision and conservation bond estimates, inspection of subdivision construction and the administration of the pavement management program and Chapter 90 roadway improvement program. The Division also provides technical assistance and guidance on various Town projects, performs traffic studies, regulates and inspects private construction activities within Town roadways; and is responsible for the maintenance of all records concerning the subdivision of land, roadway, water, sewer and drainage construction, town maps, issuance of street addresses, updating 911 address records and the issuance of various permits.
73 The division provided field survey, design and construction management services for the following construction projects designed and completed during the year:
Roadway Improvements: Prepared bids, provided project management and inspection for the resurfacing of 16 roadways totaling approximately 3 miles consisting of the following:
Reclaim the following roadways: Annette Lane ( Martin Rd to end) Bond St( Lowell St to Vine St) Center Ave (Minot St to Maple St) Grove Street( Franklin St to 283 Grove St) Maple St( Warren Ave to Center Ave) Martin Rd ( Forest St to Colburn Rd) Orange St( Pearl St to Harrison St) Sweetser Ave ( Minot St to end) Warren Ave (Minot St to end)
Mill and overlay the following roadways: Forest St( Main St to Arthur B. Lord Drive) Lowell St( at Linden St) Salem St( Lowell St to Reading/ Wakefield rotary) Washington St( at Minot St) Woburn St( at Linden St)
Overlaid the following roadways: Crosby Rd (Minot St to end) Edwin Rd ( Minot St to end)
Sidewalk and Curb Installation and Repairs: Coordinated work and funding between multiple agencies, provided project management and inspection for the installation of approximately 2,600 linear feet of new granite curb and bituminous concrete and concrete sidewalk on the following roadways;
Oak Street— southerly side from Summer Avenue to West Street. Water Projects o Water Main improvements — During the year the Division designed and inspected the installation of about 1, 300 feet of new cement lined ductile iron ( CLDI) water main, including a new hydrant and gate valves. This replaced an existing unlined cast iron water main.
74 Length Location Project Limits Improvement Type feet)
Franklin St to 238 Grove Grove Street 1, 300 Replace w/ 12" CLDI
Phase III Improvements — continued design for the cleaning and lining of water mains on the following roadways:
Length Location Project Limits Improvement Type feet)
Main Street Woburn St to Mill St 12, 313 Clean & Line
Mill Street Main St to Town Line 1, 724 Clean & Line
o Main Street and Mill Street Cleaning and Lining—Work anticipated to start Spring/ Summer 2018.
Uni- directional Flushing Program — worked with consultant to operate and manage the Town' s uni- directional flushing program. Completed this season with successful results. The flushing program is anticipated to continue the spring 2018. Main Street Water Main Culvert Crossing — drafted construction plans and assisted Town' s consultant in the design and MassDOT permitting of the water main culvert crossing. Work is anticipated to begin Spring 2018. Work associated with this project will be included in the Main Street Cleaning and Lining contract. Auburn Water Tank/Cell Carrier Relocation — attended several meetings with the Town' s design consultant and cell companies discussing possible design alternatives and the RFP for additional cell equipment and lease extensions. The Town will be including the replacement of the water tank in its capital plan for year 2021. Associated with this project would be the design and construction of the relocation of the cell carriers located on the Auburn Street water tank site. Supplying MWRA water to North Reading through Reading' s Water System — attendance at several engineering review meetings during year with Town staff and North Reading' s consultant to review water system' s Hydraulic Model and to determine needed improvements to Reading' s water system to supply North Reading with MWRA water through Town' s system. MWRA Reports - prepared quarterly reports for the above water main assistance projects in accordance with grant/loan agreement.
Sewer System and UI
West Street/Batchelder Road Sewer Station Replacement — attended project meetings, reviewed construction submittals, inspected, coordinated system testing and assisted Town' s consultant in the project management of the West Street/Batchelder Road sewer station
75 replacement project. The project started December 2016 and currently under construction. Work on this project is substantially complete MWRA Phase 8 - worked with consultant and provided project administration on the following portions of the $350, 000 grant loan assistance project: o Incorporating Historic TV Inspection into GIS Database and Sewer Asset Management Software— final deliverable installed MWRA Phase 9 Construction Funding — worked with consultant and provided project administration on the following portions of the $ 844, 000 grant/loan assistance project: o Rehabilitation of approximately 5, 600 linear feet of sewer main, including cured- in-place pipe lining and sewer main replacement o Cleaned and television inspected approximately 6,700 LF of sewer main o Repaired and/ or replaced 81 sewer manholes and cement lined approximately 400 vertical feet of sewer manholes o Removal of Inflow and Infiltration from various location previously identified MWRA Phase 10 Construction Funding — worked with consultant to submit MWRA Assistance application for a $ 844, 000 grant/loan for the following project: o Rehabilitation of approximately 15, 000 LF of sewer main, by means of cured- in- place pipe lining. o Television inspection of approximately 4, 000 LF of sewer main. MWRA Reports o Prepared quarterly reports for above UI projects in accordance with grant/loan agreement.
o Prepared annual UI report
o Prepared annual discharge permit application
o Updated various MWRA water and sewer system questioners DEP Reports
o Worked with consultant to prepare and submit the DEP Annual Sewer UI Report
Parks & Playgrounds Joshua Eaton Elementary Schools - performed project survey and initiated design of various site improvements at Joshua Eaton. Work is anticipated to begin July 2018.
Stormwater Working in cooperation with the Eastern Middlesex Mosquito Control Project the Town cleaned and dredged approximately 1, 000 feet of its drainage ditches. Bond Street - designed, bid and performed project management on various drainage improvements including the installation of approximately 100 feet of drain pipe, catch basins and roadway re- grading. Grove Street — designed, bid and performed project management for the installation of approximately 800 linear feet of new drain line on Grove St from Franklin St to Meadow Brook golf course.
Stormwater Mapping and NPDES MS4 Assistance The Town met with a consultant to review database record keeping and updating procedures, field data collection methods and asset management software. Developed and initiated a new
76 catch basin cleaning GIS application that will assist in collecting vital information regarding structure condition and volume of sediment cleaned.
Work continued on meeting the requirements of the NPDES MS4 Phase II Stormwater program with the submission of the annual compliance report, upgraded system mapping, cleaned catch basins, assisted in the oversight and enforcement of the Stormwater Management bylaw and IDDE bylaw, and distributed storm water awareness information via the Town' s website, social media, school presentations and flyers. The Division attended meetings with the Mystic River Stormwater Collaborative, as well as various EPA meetings.
Miscellaneous Projects
Traffic Markings — repainted roadway center lines, edge lines, stop lines, crosswalks, roadway stencils, parking stalls and parking lot markings Belmont Street to Ivy Lane Wetland/ Stream Crossing — assisted Town' s consultant with the continued monitoring of the wetlands crossed during the water main installation, and the required reporting under the following permits: Army Corps of Engineers 404 permit, DEP Waterways 401 Water Quality Permit and Reading Conservation Commission Order of Conditions. Conservation Notice of Intent/RDA — provide field survey, prepared plans, supplemental documentation and completed application to receive a Notice of Intent/RDA for the following projects: o Grove Street Water Main and Drainage Improvements o Annual Paving Program
Federal/ State Projects
MassDOT
West Street Roadway Reconstruction Project: In May 2015, MassDOT' s contractor Newport Construction began the long anticipated West Street construction project. The project included the West Street corridor from the Woburn City Line to Longwood Road, including improvements to the intersection of Woburn Street at Summer Avenue. To date the contractor has installed new drainage, granite curb, concrete sidewalks, signage, and landscaping, along with the resurfacing and restriping of the roadway. While the traffic signals were upgraded at the intersection of West Street and South Street, new traffic signals were installed at the intersections of West St/Woburn St/Wescroft Rd, West
St/Winslow Rd/King St, and West St/ Summer Ave/ Willow St. The traffic signals at Summer Ave/ Woburn St also received upgraded equipment.
The project is now substantially complete and all traffic signals have been accepted by the Town. Incidental work related to punch- list items still remain to be completed by the contractor. It is anticipated that the project will be closed out by MassDOT in the spring of 2018.
77 During the year the Division continued to perform daily inspections of the work, resolved utility conflicts and held weekly progress meetings.
Main Street/Hopkins Street Intersection— 25% designed MassDOT Reading Safety Audit — attended meetings and site walk with MassDOT' s consultant regarding the south Main Street corridor.
MWRA Phase II - MWRA 36 inch diameter redundant water main: attendance at several meetings with MWRA staff and consultant to review projects impacts and assist with the project management decisions affecting the Town. The Town Engineering and Water Divisions provided resources to help facilitate construction and maintain project schedules.
Traffic Signal Maintenance — During the year the Division performed site and equipment investigations, and contracted consultants and contractors to perform repairs to the following traffic signals:
Haverhill Street/Symonds Way Installed new pedestrian pushbutton after existing pushbutton stopped working
Lowell Street/Grove Street Installed new traffic signal after an unknown vehicle hit and destroyed the existing.
Lowell Street at Town Hall Installed new signal controller, all underground wiring, and pushbuttons, after pedestrian signal kept going on flash.
Main Street/Haven Street Repaired corroded wiring after signal kept going on flash.
Main Street/Washington Street Replaced burnt out green LED lens Repaired processer for signal detection camera after it was found to not be working Salem Street/Main Street Tightened signal pole base, replaced pedestrian pushbutton, replaced signal visors, and realigned signal head after signal was hit at various times, all by unknown vehicles.
Summer Avenue/ Prescott Street Installed new traffic signal after an unknown vehicle hit and destroyed the existing.
Walkers Brook Drive/Newcrossing Road Reprogrammed signal controller to include an " All Red" phase after the signal timing was found to be operating incorrectly.
78 West Street/ South Street Replaced burnt out yellow LED lens
Interdepartmental Reviews The Engineering Division performed engineering reviews of plans submitted to the Community Planning and Development Commission and performed site inspections for site plan compliance, adherence to subdivision regulations and conformance with DPW utility standards for the following private development projects, subdivisions and Town projects:
Reading Village 2 Prescott 364 Lowell St Randall Road 116 West St 1260 Main St 24 Gould St 149 Van Norden Rd. Barton Estates Lakeview & Eaton 40B Postmark Square
In addition to the above private developments the Division provided general oversight and field inspected work performed by NGRID in the replacement of cast iron gas mains on the following roadways:
Auburn St( Highland to Beacon) Hillside Rd (Waverly Rd to Oakland Rd) Beacon St( Locust to Auburn) Park Ave ( Minot St to end) Brande Court( Chute St to approx. 150' Ridge Rd (Main St to Cold Spring Rd) from Chute St) Spruce Rd ( at Birch Lane) Chute St( Haven St to Mt. Vernon St) Waverly Rd (Ridge Rd to Hillside Rd) Forest St( Martin Rd to Grove St)
Permitting and Utility Hearings
The Division reviewed and held public hearings for the expansion of public utilities for the following;
NGrid Gas Main Extensions
0 Spruce Road( near Birch Road)
During the year the Engineering Division issued permits, performed utility mark outs and performed construction inspections for the following:
Sewer Connections 19 Gas Permits 93
Sewer Disconnections 11 Street Occupancies 5
Sewer Repairs 14 Street Openings 32
79 Water Renewals 20 Driveway Permits 41
Water Connections 22 Jackie' s Law Permits 77
Dig Safe Requests 203 Soil Test Inspections 9
Quantity includes 10 gas main replacements, 16 road resurfacing/re- construction projects, Grove Street water/drainage improvement project, MWRA water project, and West/Batchelder sewer pump station replacements, all of which encompassed entire streets, or sections of streets. In addition, on several of these projects, the areas had to be marked out more than once, throughout the duration of the project.
HIGHWAY/EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE DIVISION The Highway Division at the Public Works Facility consists of eighteen employees; four are Mechanics, one is a Dispatcher and the twelve that are left to maintain and repair part of the infrastructure of the Town of Reading.
Highway Division
The regular projects such as street sweeping, catch basin repair ( 41), roadside cutting, sidewalk and street maintenance ( potholes), tree lawn repair, mixing and sifting loam and compost, traffic control, street signs, ( 72) new signs installed, and 132 were replaced or damaged. Cleaning of catch basins ( approximately 1500), and ditches continued by priority and need. Street sweeping was started on April 10 2017, and finished on April 27 2017. Also a new program was started for tracking catch basin cleaning, sediment levels, and the condition of the structures. We hope to complete this process this year.
Miscellaneous
Styrofoam and Electronics Recycling on a daily basis, held Hazardous Waste Day, Paper shredding and Rigid Plastic recycling twice, and had ADOPT-A-FAMILY in November and December, and Town Day in June. Provided support for the annual Fall Street Faire, did traffic control for Christmas on the Common, and the Halloween Parade. We installed Brackets and Banners, in the square, and maintained Downtown street lights.
Vehicle Maintenance
Repaired and serviced the equipment from Police, Fire, School, Building Maintenance, Council on Aging, and Public Works Departments with 4 mechanics and more vehicles added each year. They continued to take waste oil from the public during the week and on Saturdays, and did emergency in the field repairs as needed.
Snow and Ice
During the winter season of 2016- 2017 we plowed (7) storms and sanded ( 25) times.
80 Special Projects:
Sidewalk repair and replacement throughout the Town. Paving projects, Stewart St, King St, Rachel Rd, Robin Rd, and a section of Pennsylvania Ave. Assisted other Divisions as needed.
Special note, after 46 years all in the Highway Division Tom Ward retired.
George Strazzere, Highway & Equipment Supervisor
FORESTRY-TREE WARDEN' S REPORT One hundred and fifty-one trees were removed, twenty-three were in Laurel Hill Cemetery and three were in Forest Glen Cemetery. These trees were dead or in a dangerous condition as to be a threat to public safety. One hundred and eighteen hazardous tree stumps were removed from the tree lawns, parks, schools, cemeteries and playgrounds for public safety. One hundred thirty seven trees were trimmed. Dead wood and low branches were removed from the public trees as requested or observed. A street by street hazardous tree survey of the Town was completed during the winter months. As a result of the survey, fourteen hazardous trees were identified as well as fifty-one trees to be trimmed. There were twenty-nine hanging limbs removed from over the street and sidewalks. Fifty-three trees were planted by the Town as street trees. The varieties included Zelkova, Sweet Gum, Gingko, Elm, Red Maple, Sugar Maple and Cleveland Pear. Trees were planted roadside and in the parks, schools and cemeteries.
The Compost Center on Strout Avenue continues to accept brush and leaves from residents.
41, 766 cars entered the Compost Center in 2017. Residents are required to purchase stickers for use of the compost center.
The holiday lighting put up by the tree crew in the town square was once again very successful. There were over 20, 000 colored bulbs installed on the common.
Reading was awarded " Tree City USA" for the thirty-first consecutive year by the National Arbor Day Foundation. Five hundred Blue Spruce trees were purchased and distributed to all the fifth graders. Thanks to the Reading Rotary Club that has sponsored and assisted in this program to make " Arbor Day 2017" a success in Reading.
A special thanks to all the committees and commissions working toward the preservation of Reading' s public shade trees.
PARKS DIVISION The division continues to maintain 80 acres of grassed area throughout the town, and the facilities within the parks and schools. This includes the renovation as well as continued maintenance of all the ball fields on school or parks grounds. The Division maintains sixteen tennis and basketball courts, the tot lots, and the skating rinks. The Division maintains the grounds for all municipal as well as school buildings.
81 Hunt playground was outdated and deemed unsafe and was removed and a new structure has been put in its place in 2017.
The division also assists all Town departments, committees and commissions with tree maintenance, snow and ice removal and election set-up.
Special Note, after twenty- seven years of service to the Town, Supervisor/Tree Warden of the Parks, Forestry, and Cemetery Dept. Robert L. Keating retired.
Respectfully Submitted— Michael E. Hannaford, Foreman Parks, Forestry Division
WATER/SEWER DIVISION The DPW Water Conservation Program ( WCP) continued along with great success. In 2017, 8, 565. 00 in rebates was distributed to Reading Residents who participated in the program. Since the program' s inception in July 2003, just under $ 600, 000 has been rebated to over 3, 400 residents. The Reading DPW WCP incorporates emphasis on rebates for low flow washing machines, toilets, irrigation system rain sensors, and rain barrels, along with free home and irrigation water system use audits and water use reports. Since 2003, the Reading Water Department has offered home water saving devices for Reading Residents, they are available free of charge to residents through the Reading Water Department located at Town Hall in the DPW office.
The WCP school educational phase continued with Meg Tabasco, Education Coordinator for the 3rd MWRA, making presentations to all grade classes in Town focusing on water supply and conservation. Meg also facilitated a training and education session for our Reading High School Seniors that taught and explained the wastewater side of our Town' s Water System. We are very grateful to the MWRA and the programs they offer to our Residents.
As required by the August 6, 2006, Administrative Consent Order (ACO) the Town entered into, with (DEP), the Town continued to retain ownership and control of the Zone I (400' radius) and protection of the Zone II (well recharge area) of the emergency water supply wells and wellfield. As a condition of the DEP ACO, the water supply wells and wellfield continued to be maintained as an emergency water supply to pump water to the distribution system with disinfection capabilities. All nine ( 9) of our Town wells were exercised monthly; all such wells are ready and operational in the case of a water supply emergency.
The MWRA in conjunction with the Reading Water Department compiled and mailed the nineteenth drinking water report Consumer Confidence Report ( CCR) to all Reading water customers this past June.
Under the Safe Drinking Water Act requirements, quarterly EPA Uncontaminated Monitoring Rule 3 required sampling was completed and we were fully within all regulations. We are proud to offer Reading Residents some of the highest quality water in the country.
82 The MWRA Redundant Water Main Supply installation work continued in 2017 with further installations of 24- inch and 36- inch diameter MWRA water mains, along with valves and pipe connections on West Street, South Street and Oak Street all making way to Louanis Drive and Hopkins Street for the future Town of Reading/MWRA Water Metering Vault and Control Valve. These two new Water Control Vaults located on Louanis and off Hopkins will be instrumental in the control and management of tour Town' s MWRA Water Supply for the foreseeable future. We look forward to their full activation and future use in 2018.
In 2017, the Town of Reading Water Department again worked together with Reading Facilities and School Departments to develop and grow our Town' s LCCA ( Lead Contamination Control Act) Plan. The LCCA Plan tests and manages any Lead & Copper found in our Reading school building' s drinking water. Reading' s LCCA Program was acknowledged as excellent by MassDEP and became part of MassDEP' s 2017 LCCA Training & Educational Program for all Massachusetts Public Water Systems.
SUPPLY
The Reading Water Department and DPW has operated and maintained our water supply valve, vault, SCADA and security systems, with emergency water supply wells, pump stations and all emergency power equipment. We have collected and delivered to laboratory for analysis over 600 water system water quality samples in 2017.
In 2017, a total of 579. 59 MG ( million gallons) of water was purchased then feed from the MWRA to the Town of Reading' s water distribution system. See the following chart: 2017 READING MWRA WATER PURCHASED
The highest single day consumption of water by the Town of Reading in the 2017 year occurred 121h on Monday June for 2. 57 MG ( million gallons). The highest seven ( 7) day consumption of 101h 161h water occurred from Saturday June to Friday June for the amount of 15. 14 MG.
The Town of Reading' s average daily usage of water for 2017 was 1. 59 MGD ( million gallons per day). That water use of 1. 59 MG a day is supplied to Reading Residents and Businesses through 7, 717 Residential Water Connections, 70 Municipal Water Connections and 248 Commercial Water Connections. In 2017, through those 7, 717 Residential Water Connections, Reading' s 2017 Population of 26, 673 Residents used a total of 511. 55 MG of water. Thus, in 2017, each Reading Resident has an average water use of 16, 121 gallons annually, or 1, 343 gallons a month or 44. 17 gallons per person per day. ( Res. GPCD)
That 2017 average water daily use by Reading Residents of 44. 17 Gallons is roughly 32.5% below the State suggested limit of 65 gallons per person per day.
For monthly rainfall in Reading for 2017, see the following chart: 2017 READING, MA RAINFALL RECORDS. Annual total rainfall in Reading for 2017 was 39.23" of rain or melted snow. Reading' s 2016 annual rainfall was 34. 69. Reading' s 2017 rainfall was up 13% from 2016.
83 WATER DISTRIBUTION
A total of 24 new water services were installed, 20 old water services were replaced, repaired 21 water service leaks, repaired 6 broken water mains, replaced 3 old fire hydrants, repaired 2 broken fire hydrants, rebuilt 80 fire hydrants, disconnected 6 water services for house demolition, replaced 3 water main gate valves, replaced 226' of 11/4" water main on Pine Ave, replaced 49 old water services from the water main to the sidewalk shut off on Forest St, Stewart Rd, King St, Summer Ave, Rachel Rd, Fairmount Rd, Harvard St, Vine St, Winter St and Kenneth Rd for Chapter 90 road reconstruction, assisted with friends & family day and vehicle day at Reading Library, inspected the installation of water mains at Reading Woods, Johnson Woods, West St, Oak St and Summer Ave. Continued cross connection control program, started a new uni-directional hydrant flushing program, inspected Auburn St and Bear Hill water tanks, all drinking fountains and town irrigation systems turned on in spring and turned off and winterized in fall, 2 seasonal laborers painted and lubricated hydrants over 1/ 4 of Town, completed annual water inventory, loam and seed on all water jobs, hot topped water and sewer trenches, checked and maintained 2 water booster stations daily, cleaned and maintained the grounds, cutting grass, etc. at the Auburn St tank site, lowered and raised water gate boxes for construction jobs, conducted a leak detection survey, assisted Highway Division during snow plowing operations, The Town' s water conservation program awarded 26 rebates for energy efficient washing machines, 22 water saving toilets, 0 irrigation rain sensor and sold 60 rain barrels.
METER ROOM
The regular quarterly water meter reading cycle was supported, 203 work orders were received and completed, 191 bill-to- date readings were taken, 3 meters were removed, 3 meters were reset, 4 meter tested correct, 0 meters tested incorrect.
SEWER DISTRIBUTION
Approximately 15, 000 feet of sewer mains were cleaned and 1, 500 feet T.V. inspected, replaced 4 sewer manhole frames and covers, assisted with the completion of two sewer station replacements on Haverhill St. and West St., cleaned wet wells at all sewer stations biannually, checked and maintained 12 sewer stations daily, cleaned approximately 1/ 4 of the sanitary sewer main system, cleaned and maintained the grounds, cutting grass, trimmed bushes etc., around the sewer stations, completed work orders re: leaks, broken gates etc., exercised emergency generator weekly, completed the annual sewer inventory, assisted Highway Division during snow plowing operations.
84 2017 READING MWRA WATER PURCHASED
MILLION AVERAGE MONTH GALLONS DAYS MILLION GALLONS DAY JANUARY 42. 98 31 1. 39 FEBRUARY 41. 76 28. 25 1. 48 MARCH 48. 82 31 1. 57 APRIL 41. 19 30 1. 37 MAY 47. 98 31 1. 55 JUNE 57.23 30 1. 91 JULY 57.20 31 1. 85 AUGUST 60. 94 31 1. 97 SEPTEMBER 51. 16 30 1. 71 OCTOBER 47. 30 31 1. 53 NOVEMBER 40. 58 30 1. 35 DECEMBER 42. 47 31 1. 37 TOTAL 579. 59 365 1. 59
2017 READING, MA RAINFALL RECORDS
READING, MA READING, MA READING, MA MEASURED MEASURED MEASURED MONTH INCHES 2016 INCHES 2017 INCHES ( 1981- 2010) RAINFALL & RAINFALL & RAINFALL & MELTED SNOW MELTED SNOW MELTED SNOW JANUARY 2. 93 3. 74 3. 91 FEBRUARY 3. 34 1. 64 3. 73 MARCH 3. 79 3. 15 5. 11 APRIL 2. 77 5. 81 4. 47 MAY 2. 01 3. 36 4. 20 JUNE 1. 68 4. 80 3. 98 JULY 1. 00 3. 87 4. 26 AUGUST 2. 19 1. 32 3. 52 SEPTEMBER 2. 02 2. 86 3. 86 OCTOBER 6. 31 4. 89 4. 58 NOVEMBER 2. 21 1. 80 4. 62 DECEMBER 4. 44 1. 99 4. 53 INCHES TOTALS 34. 69 39. 23 50. 77
85 READING PUBLIC LIBRARY
REPORT OF THE LIBRARY BOARD OF TRUSTEES
The year 2017 marked the first full year for the Library in the renovated and expanded space at 64 Middlesex Avenue, and the Reading Community appeared to take full advantage of the Library' s expanded resources based on the dramatic increases across the board in all service areas. Circulation and usage, programming, reference interactions, total visits and community meetings all increased, cementing the Library' s status as one of the busiest libraries in the North of Boston Library Exchange ( NOBLE) network. It was especially exciting to see the community embrace the many creative programs, technology and services afforded by the Innovation Studio and other spaces added in the renovation, and to see the full potential of the Library on display as Reading' s Community Center via such events as Congressman Seth Moulton' s Town Hall Meeting in March.
This level of activity, programming and services would not be possible without our world class staff, led by Director Amy Lannon. Amy and her staff are committed to executing upon the vision and mission of the Reading Public Library, remaining attentive to the needs of the Town of Reading, and providing the highest level of service consistent with what a 21" century library needs to be. As American writer Sidney Sheldon articulated so well, " Libraries store the energy that fuels the imagination. They open up windows to the world and inspire us to explore and achieve, and contribute to improving our quality of life." No one understands and/ or embraces this ethos more than our staff.
We would especially like to recognize the contributions and value provided by two long time Trustees, Vicki Yablonsky and David Hutchinson, who both decided to step down from the Board in 2017. Vicki and David provided invaluable leadership and guidance during a period of major change and transition for the Library, and the Library is better place as a result. Thanks, Vicki and David!
We look forward to the challenges and opportunities of 2018, and continuing to execute upon the Library' s strategic plan and provide the high level of services that the Reading Community desires.
John Brzezenski Chair, Library Board of Trustees
86 REPORT OF THE LIBRARY ACTIVITIES AND SERVICES 2017
OVERVIEW
2017 marks the Library' s first complete year in the renovated and expanded space at 64 Middlesex Avenue, as well as the second year of our 2016- 2021 Strategic Plan: Windows of Opportunity. This was an exciting year with increases in all areas of service that included: 0 Overall circulation and usage of 491, 616;
760 classes and programs, with attendance of 20, 361;
66, 150 reference interactions;
244, 604 visitors; and, 431 community meetings.
The Board of Library Trustees approved our revised and updated Reading Public Library Mission, Vision and Core Values ( see Appendix B) which has provided further direction and guidance for the Library.
EDUCATION: FROM EARLY LITERACY To LIFELONG LEARNING
The Library is a center for education. Aligned with our core values of learning, intellectual freedom and innovation, our program frameworks for 2017 were:
Exploring Reading & Writing: The Library hosted authors such as Carter Allen, Brunonia Barry, Tara Sullivan, and a" Partners in Crime" mystery writer panel. We also arranged for a Writer in Residence Nancy Kohl whose final program was a community open mike night. The Children' s Room expanded lapsits and storytimes, including a new and well-received STEAM Storytime.
Build a Better World: The Library-wide summer reading theme `Build a Better World" was a tremendous success. Both the Teen and Children' s programs were refreshed to focus on strengthening reading confidence, exploring the library, and getting to know our staff. We also challenged the community to " Reading Without Walls," an initiative to build community, empathy and understanding through reading. In addition to the social justice component of Build a Better World", the Library offered building programs designed to inspire creativity and innovation. Classes included Rug Hooking, Sewing, Pen & Ink Drawing, Teenovation STEAM series, Lego Builders, Hands On Hang Out and much, much more.
21s Century Technology: The Library continued to explore and offer programs designed for 21" century personal and professional learners. New classes in 2017 included a Girls Who Code club, a Tech Talks series and 3- D Printing program. The classes, programs and activities listed here are a small fraction of the total curriculum offered in 2017.
87 BUILDING COMMUNITY
Another focus in 2017 was on the Library' s commitment to strengthening the Reading community. We worked to engage and partner with Town departments, community groups, and businesses. Our goal was to foster and model positive relationships and mutual respect. Examples of our work in this area include:
Programs & Services: Artist in Residence with Giles Laroche Storywalks in Reading open spaces and trails; Town Hall for U.S. Representative Seth Moulton;
French for Kids with the RMHS French Club; Girl Empowerment Book Club with the RMHS National Honor Society; The Cozy Project; Entrepreneur Series; and, ESL Conversation Group.
Partnerships: Reading Select Board Reading Finance Committee Reading Elder & Human Services Reading Embraces Diversity Reading/North Reading Chamber of Commerce Reading Garden Club Reading Art Association
Volunteers: Book Mates
Netguides Homebound Delivery MLIS Graduate School Intern ( 2 weeks)
Community Outreach Friends and Family Day Parent University @ RMHS Fall Street Faire
Additionally, the Library firmly established itself as a welcoming and safe community center. In 2017, 270 people came to speak to their U.S. Representative; 400+ high school students gathered to study for Midterm and Final exams; seniors with Alzheimers and dementia gathered for activities at a series of Memory Cafes, providing a bit of respite and support for their care partners; in response to a series of graffiti hate incidents across town, the Library was selected to host a Kindness Rocks Garden project led by Reading Embraces Diversity; and the Library 88 worked with all Town departments to welcome and work with 60 displaced residents who sustained losses in the Sanborn Street fire.
COLLECTIONS AND SERVICES
While we continue to see modest growth in the circulation of our physical collection, there is a distinct downward trend in borrowing of our media collection as streaming music and movies grown in popularity. However, we have seen steady increases in the use of our digital collection that includes eBooks, eAudiobooks, music downloads, digital magazines and research databases. In 2017 we added digital versions of the Wall Street Journal and the New York Times, the genealogy database My Heritage, and the children' s electronic resource PebbleGo Plus. Our digital collections were used over 109, 000 times in 2017 which constitutes approximately 22% of our circulation/usage total.
We also continued to digitize portions of our Local History collection including older Town Reports and the RMHS Yearbooks.
Beyond the digital, the Library expanded the new " Library of Things" ( LoT) collection to included items such as ukuleles, a blood pressure monitor, a film/ slide scanner, and a GoPro camera.
It is challenging to compare 2017 statistics ( see Appendix A) against those of 2016 during which the Library was closed for almost two months for the move from 80 General Way to 64 Middlesex Ave. However, two of the most dramatic increases have been in Reference Interactions and Community Room use. These increases are directly related to the increased space afforded by the renovation. The new layout included a new fourth service desk on the ground floor and we have seen a 16% increase of reference interactions over that of 2013 ( pre- renovation). Additionally, the Library now has 7 program spaces, 4 of which are made available for use by the Reading community. Total meeting room use for 2017 was 1, 544 with 431 or 28% of use by non- Library groups. This is 75- 80% higher than our previous two meeting room capacity in 2013.
The Library was also very excited and honored to acquire seven watercolor paintings by renowned local artist Ms. Nathalie J. Nordstrand. Four paintings donated by Mr. Eugene R. Nigro are titled Private Enterprise, Impending Storm, From Quarry Hill, and Edge ofthe Marsh. Three additional paintings were donated by the artist and are titled Woodland Sentinel, Southward Bound, and Frozen Marsh.
Lastly, the Library continued to regularly provide homebound patrons with a" Library Takeout" delivery service and also arranged for lending collections at the Pleasant Street Center, Sawtelle Hospice House and Sanborn Place. We anticipate that these and other services for older adults will continue to grow over the next few years.
TECHNOLOGY
The new self-service equipment accounted for approximately 55% of both checkouts and return of materials. In late 2017 we added a fifth self-checkout station on the ground floor, as well as
89 another print station. We will continue to monitor both checkouts and returns with a goal to increase use to 60- 65%. Additionally, we added two iMacs with design and creativity software to the Studio, as well as Chromebooks and Dell laptops for classes, such as Girls Who Code, and for in- library use by patrons.
The public wifi recorded 71, 034 sessions and our 12 public computers averaged 230 uses per week. Public printing continues to be strong with approximately 27,000 pages printed in 2017.
PERSONNEL
In February 2017 Children' s Librarian Ashley Waring was promoted to Assistant Director. Ms. Waring has worked at the Reading Public Library since 2006 and consistently taken on increasing levels of responsibility in the Children' s Division. For the past several years, she has also assisted with library-wide communications and technology management. She is involved in local and national library professional organizations, and is proud to have served as a member of the prestigious 2017 Randolph Caldecott Medal committee for the Association of Library Service to Children, a division of the American Library Association.
Retirements this year included Maureen Conwell, who worked in the Circulation Division for over 20 years, and Rachel Baumgartner, another 20+ year veteran who served as both a Children' s Librarian and Local History Librarian.
New hires included Judith Terrazano in the Circulation Division, as well as Mary Jeanne Harwood and Catherine Zaninno both in the Children' s Division. Eileen Barrett of the Reference Division took on Local History responsibilities.
In July 2017, the Library hosted an intern from the University of London, Virgilio Medina. Mr. Medina, a native of the Philippines was working on completing is Masters of Library and Information Science and spent two weeks working with staff across all divisions and also visited Wakefield, Wilmington and Boston Public Libraries.
Our staff is our greatest asset. We continue to support and encourage high quality continuing education and professional development for staff at all levels. Example of staff learning opportunities included: Talking Social Justice in Massachusetts Libraries in a Post-Truth World American Library Association Annual Conference Massachusetts Library Association Annual Conference New England Library Association Annual Conference Computers in Libraries Conference
Project SET ( MLS) Library Leadership Workshop RIPL: Outcome Based Measurement for Libraries Conference Evergreen Systems Training
90 APPRECIATION
The Library thanks the Board of Library Trustees for their constant guidance and support. We are also grateful for the continued generosity of the Reading Public Library Foundation and the Friends without whom we could not provide such outstanding services and programs. Finally, we are fortunate to opportunity to experience the goodwill, kindness and connection with the Reading community whom we serve each and every day— Thank YOU!
Respectfully submitted, Amy Lannon, MLIS Library Director
91 READING HOUSING AUTHORITY
It is with great pleasure that I share with you the activities and accomplishments of the Reading Housing Authority over the past year.
The start of the New Year has seen some improvement in our economy; however, we remain cautious during this somewhat unstable time. The pressure on the real estate market has continued to create a critical challenge for poor and lower income families to find, keep and maintain their housing. As the real estate values escalated over the past few years, it was certainly felt most dramatically at the low-income levels. Rental units have been at a greater premium once again in this area and participants have experienced difficulty in locating affordable units. Previously, landlords had been able to ask for and receive a high rent, which historically prices the poor and lower income families out of the rental market. Again, we are beginning to see a change in the rental market area with increase inquiries from landlords who are experiencing more difficulty renting units, therefore, willing to negotiate rents within the range of Fair Market Rents established each year by HUD.
The Reading Housing Authority (Authority) strives to assist these families to seek and obtain housing that is decent, safe and sanitary. In an effort to ameliorate this impact, the Authority will continue its efforts to develop new units and purchase affordable units when the opportunity arises. The Authority most recently has begun a careful search for a multi-family home in our area with the hope of adding additional family affordable units to our present inventory in the upcoming year. We continue to support private developers and the Town in their efforts to set aside units for low/moderate income families in their proposed developments. We reach out to owners of multi-family units who would like to work with us to serve our clients.
As always, the Authority goes beyond the bricks and mortar and provides assistance to families, elderly and handicapped persons to obtain the services they need. We continue to work closely with Mystic Valley Elder Services and other home care agencies to meet the needs of the elderly residents as they strive to remain independent and age in place. The addition of our local nurse advocate, Alyse Warren, is someone that elder residents can rely on to assist in identifying health concerns. With budget cuts affecting all of us, we strive to maintain our programs, work with other supportive agencies and still offer a safe and decent place for our seniors, disabled and families in need.
Our community is very lucky to have such caring and dedicated public safety personnel. The men and women of the Reading Police Department and Fire Department have our gratitude and appreciation for the many times they have responded to emergency situations for residents of the Reading Housing Authority.
On behalf of the Board, we want to thank the Lyn Whyte, former Executive Director, who retired on September 30, 2017 for her many dedicated years of service to the agency. We want to welcome our new Executive Director, Julie M. Johnston and her staff for their commitment and service to the Reading Housing Authority. We look forward to working with them as we meet the new challenges that lie ahead.
92 Respectfully,
Dia . CAm, Clair
Organization
Organized in 1963 to address the housing needs of the Town' s low and moderate-income residents, the Reading Housing Authority ( Authority) is " a public body politic and corporate" duly organized and authorized by Massachusetts General Laws ( MGL), Chapter 121B, s. 3. The Authority receives it funds from the State and Federal government to assist our clients with their housing needs. Although the Authority does not receive any local funding, five unpaid Reading residents compose the Board of Commissioners. The Board of Selectmen appoints four of these board members and one is the Governor' s appointee. Each member serves for a 5- year term. The Board is responsible for the overall operation of the Authority. The day to day responsibility is delegated to the Executive Director.
The Board meets regularly and has scheduled their monthly meetings for the first Monday of each month. The Annual Meeting of the Board is currently scheduled for the month after the Selectmen makes their annual appointment of a Board member. As of December 2017, the Board Members and their term of office are as follows:
Diane L. Cohen Chair and State Appointee 73 Hillcrest Avenue Term expires 5/ 03/ 2021
Richard Robbins Vice- Chair 42 Dudley Street Term expires 6/ 30/ 2020
Timothy J. Kelley Treasurer 84 Woburn Street Term expires 6/ 30/ 2019
Madeline J. Hodgdon Assistant. Treasurer and Tenant Representative 4- 7 Frank Tanner Drive Term expires 6/ 30/ 2017
Kevin Mulvey Member 67 Whittier Road Term expires 6/ 30/ 2018
Julie M. Johnston Secretary and Executive Director 22 Frank Tanner Drive
93 Administrative and Maintenance Staff
The Board contracts an Executive Director who manages the day-to-day operations of the Authority. Within State and Federal guidelines and other budgetary limits, the Executive Director hires the supporting staff necessary to achieve the goals and responsibilities of the Authority' s programs.
After 16 years as Executive Director, Lyn Whyte retired on September 30, 2017. Julie M. Johnston was hired on October 1, 2017 to replace Ms. Whyte as the new Executive Director.
Administration:
Julie M. Johnston Secretary and Executive Director
Emily LaMacchia State Housing Manager
Catherine Sutherland Office Manager
Iris Perez- Feliciano CHA Federal Program Coordinator for RHA
Maintenance:
Joseph Costello Maintenance Staff
Edward Bennett Maintenance Staff
Mr. Frank Veglia, who worked in the Maintenance Department for 16 years retired on December 5, 2017.
Supportive Services and Affiliations
Home Care:
Daniel J. O' Leary Director, Mystic Valley Elder Services
Jane Burns Reading Elder Services Administrator
Kerry Valle Town of Reading, Case Worker
94 Financial Institutions
Reading Cooperative Bank
Eastern Bank
Affiliations
National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials (NAHRO)
Massachusetts Chapter of National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials MassNAHRO)
New England Regional Council of National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials ( NERC/NAHRO)
Section 8 Administrators Association
North Shore Housing Executive Directors' Association (NSHEDA)
Adult Literacy Committee of Reading/ Wakefield YMCA
Consultants
Accountants: Fenton, Ewald & Associates
Legal: Latham Law Offices, LLC & DHCD Legal Counsel, Lori McBride, Esq.
Maintenance
We do it all— from the beautiful paint job to the new appointments before you move into your new apartment. The maintenance staff meets the challenges on every occasion and has done an excellent job.
With the four seasons we experience here in New England, maintenance must be ready to take it all in stride. They do the spring clean-up and plantings; the summer mowing, watering, weeding and trimming; the fall leaf raking; and winter' s snow and ice removal. The maintenance staff works tirelessly to keep our developments looking beautiful.
The Authority is responsible for 115 individual units located on 10 different sites. It is no easy task to keep each one looking in its top form. The maintenance staff is also responsible for the daily work orders and any emergency work that needs to be done.
95 2017 Funding Received
Each year the Authority applies for several grants or capital funding whenever available to improve our properties and better serve our residents and the community. Included in this year' s awards were:
MODERNIZATION OF STATE HOUSING
Reading Housing Authority has received $97, 125 in Formula Funding Grants for Capital Improvement Projects. Two projects have been earmarked to be completed include the installation of a new garage at our elderly complex at Frank Tanner Drive to house work trucks and heavy equipment, and installation of new hot water heater tanks at all eight( 8) of our buildings also located at Frank Tanner Drive.
Audits The Authority has a Single Audit of all programs by an independent auditor each year. Ross and Company of Nashua, NH was engaged to perform the latest review of the Authority' s programs for fiscal year end June 2017. At this time, the audit has been completed and final copies of report were submitted in late December 2017 to designated agencies; namely, HUD, DHCD and the Office of State Auditors. The Authority had no findings or additional recommendations as a result of this latest audit. The Authority' s financial position is adequate to meet the needs of the operation and development of the programs and we are fortunate to maintain a retained revenue agency status.
A new compliance audit mandated by DHCD for FYE June 2017 has also been completed as of December 2017. Final reports were received by year end and no findings were noted in that detailed report. A copy of that Agreed Upon Procedures ( AUP) audit has been submitted to DHCD for their review.
Management Review
The Authority has had a current Management Review done of all State programs. The Asset Managers from the State' s Department of Housing and Community Development reviewed all the operations of the State programs to insure compliance in the daily operation of the Authority' s budget, occupancy, administration, maintenance, services and tenant participation. The Authority received an excellent review with minor comments.
As of September 2015, the Reading Housing Authority entered into an inter-agency agreement with Chelsea Housing Authority to administer its Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program. That agreement was extended for our FY2017. This cost- effective measure has enabled the RHA to maintain the federal housing program with the assistance of personnel from another agency.
96 The Reading Housing Authority continues to oversee the program and remains responsible for all reporting requirements to HUD.
State Programs
The Authority currently manages three ( 3) programs under the State' s Department of Housing and Community Development: 667 Housing ( elderly/ handicapped housing); 705 Housing Family housing); 689 Housing ( Special Needs Housing).
All our wait lists are open now; however, estimated wait times can be long. All information regarding our agency and the programs we administer can be found on our website at www.readinghousing. org. We encourage applicants to apply for our elderly/handicapped 667) housing by contacting the Housing Authority at (781) 944- 6755 or by accessing the application on our website.
HOUSING FOR ELDERLY/HANDICAPPED PERSONS( 667) effective April 17, 2017
80, one-bedroom units located at Frank D. Tanner Drive Housing Complex
Eligibility: 60 years of age or disabled
Income: 1 person - $ 54, 750
2 persons - $ 58, 450
HOUSING FOR FAMILIES( 705) effective April 17, 2017
6 units Waverly and Oakland Road ( 6, three-bedroom
units)
4 units Pleasant and Parker Street( 2, two-bedroom units; 2, three- bedroom
units) Eligibility: Family of 2 or more depending on Bedroom Size
97 Income: 2 persons- $ 58, 450
3 persons- $ 63, 750
4 persons- $ 73, 050
5 persons- $ 78, 900
6 persons- $ 84,450
7 persons- $ 90, 600
8 persons- $ 96, 450
Federal Programs
The Authority manages 125 subsidies for persons of very low income under the Federal Section 8 program. However, the Chelsea Housing Authority is currently managing this program for the RHA through an inter- agency agreement. Currently, the RHA participates in a centralized waiting list administered by the MASSNAHRO organization. Applications for this wait list are available at the administration office building at 22 Frank D. Tanner Drive, Reading or online @ www.readinghousing.org. The income limits are:
SECTION 8 RENTAL ASSISTANCE
Income limits: 1 person— $ 36,200 2 persons - $ 39, 250
3 persons - $ 46, 550 4 persons - $ 51, 700
5 persons - $ 55, 850 6 persons - $ 60, 000
7 persons - $ 64, 150 8 persons - $ 68, 250
RHA- OWNED PROPERTIES
The Authority presently owns and manages seventeen family units located in various locations throughout the Town of Reading. Four of the seventeen units were located at the condominiums
98 of the Old Reading Schoolhouse. However, in June 2017 the RHA lost these four units due to fire. Thankfully, no one was hurt as a result of the fire but all forty (40) units were determined to be uninhabitable. Efforts are underway to rebuild and restore the units to their original condition as soon as possible. The RHA is hopeful that it will be able to retain the affordability component to all 4 units once construction is complete.
Applications
ELDERLY/HANDICAPPED HOUSING (667)
The Authority manages 80 one- bedroom units of housing for elderly/ handicapped persons at our Frank D. Tanner Drive complex in Reading. To qualify for this housing, a single person or couple must meet the eligibility guidelines and be 60 years of age or older or handicapped. The Authority sets aside 13. 5% of these units for non-elderly handicapped persons.
You may obtain an application at the office of the Authority, 22 Frank D. Tanner Drive,
Reading, MA 01867 or by accessing it online at www.readinghousing. org.
FA MIL Y HO USING STATE( 705)
The Authority operates the State' s Family Housing Program with 2 different developments. The first family housing development that was built by the Authority is located at Oakland and Waverly Roads and is called Waverly Oaks. There are six 3- bedroom units. Our second state family development is near the center of Town and is referred to as our Pleasant/Parker location. There are only four units available at this site. Our wait list is open. Approximate wait times for those presently on the list remains in excess of ten years.
SECTION 8 FEDERAL HOUSING ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
Currently the wait list for our Section 8 Program is open. We now participate in the centralized wait list program initiated in December 2002 and administered by Mass NAHRO. Applications are available at our administrative office or online at www.massnahro. org. An application can be downloaded from that site and submitted to any agency participating in the centralized wait list program. At present there are almost 200, 000 families on this waitlist with waiting times for assistance being quite long.
The State maintains a wait list for its programs through the Metropolitan Boston Housing Program ( MBHP). Anyone seeking an emergency application should contact MBHP at( 800) 99 272-0990 to obtain an application. The local area service agency for emergency applicants is Community Service Network. They can be reached at( 781) 438- 1977.
Summit Village First-Time Homebuyers Program
The Authority continues to oversee the maintenance of the wait list for qualified and eligible applicants for the affordable units at Summit Village through the First Time Homebuyers Program. We presently have no potential buyers on our waitlist. During the past year, one 2- BR affordable unit was made available and was purchased by the RHA at an affordable price and will become part of the overall affordable inventory held by the Housing Authority. The affordable" owners must have a fair market appraisal done; the Authority reviews the appraisal and if accepted, provides the owner with the maximum resale price for the affordable unit. If the owner recommends a family whom they believe would be eligible and income- qualified, the Authority will determine if they are eligible and will provide them with an " Eligible Purchaser Certificate." If the owner wishes to select an applicant from the wait list, the Authority would send the next available and eligible buyer' s name to the owner to negotiate the sale. If no one is available or eligible to purchase an affordable unit at this location, the RHA has the " right of first refusal" and can opt to purchase.
Interested applicants may pick up application packets at the Town Clerk' s office in Town Hall; at the Reference Desk at the Reading Public Library; or at the office of the Reading Housing Authority, 22 Frank D. Tanner Drive. When making an application, a $ 10 fee made payable to the " Reading Housing Authority" must be included along with all pertinent documentation. If the family applying for the affordable unit is headed by 2-persons, both parties must execute the application as applicant and co- applicant. Income from all family members age 18+ is included in family income for eligibility. However, if the income of one of these persons is from a dependent( not spouse) who is a full-time student, then a deduction for out of pocket expenses for books, tuition, fees and/ or travel is allowed. Documentation from the school must be provided and verification for employment and expenses must be provided with the application. All persons must sign a" Release of Information" to have their documentation verified by the Authority. Highlights of the program are:
First Time Homebuyer Cannot have owned a home within the last 3 years; divorced persons cannot currently own a home, but 3- year restriction is excused.
Maximum Family Income Maximum family income cannot exceed 80% of the Medium Family Income in effect at the time of purchase. This includes income from all sources, ( wages, interest, dividends, etc.), for all persons in the family.
100 Family Housing The 2- bedroom units must have a minimum family size of 2 persons. The maximum number of persons that can qualify for a 2- bedroom unit is 4 persons.
The 3- bedroom units must have a minimum of 3 persons with 2 being minor children living in the household. The maximum number of persons that would qualify for a 3- bedroom unit would be 6 persons.
Affordable Price The affordable price is based on a 20% discount from the current fair market appraisal of the unit, which must be verified by the Authority.
Deed Restriction Anyone wishing to purchase an " affordable" unit should be aware that a permanent deed restriction would be recorded with their deed. This restriction states that the unit must be sold to a
qualified and eligible purchaser at a 20% discount from the fair market value as approved by the Reading Housing Authority.
Single Persons Applications are accepted from single family households but persons on the single person wait list will be chosen only after all the eligible family applicants have been served.
Local Preference Applicants from the Town of Reading are given preference over other applicants if their application is made on the same day. This local preference is given if a person is employed in the Town of Reading; has a business or enterprise in Reading which has been established for one or more years; if they are parents of a school child in Reading; persons who were residents of Reading for 5 or more years.
Conclusion
The Reading Housing Authority is proud to provide this information to you. Anyone interested in obtaining an application for any of our housing programs: elderly/ handicapped housing, state family or the Federal Section 8 Rental Assistance Program, should contact the authority at 22 Frank D. Tanner Drive or by calling the office at( 781) 944- 6755.
101 Reading School Committee Charles Robinson, Chair
Leadership There were several changes in leadership of the Reading School Committee. Chuck Robinson and Nick Boivin were elected for a three-year term. Gary Nihan resigned in November and was replaced by Sherri Vanden Akker in December.
At the committee' s annual reorganization in June, Chuck Robinson was elected as Chair, and Elaine Webb, Vice Chair. Other members of the committee are Nick Boivin, Gary Nihan, Jeanne Borawski, and Linda Snow Dockser.
Budget
The School Committee engaged in a comprehensive process of establishing FYI budget. Numerous meetings were conducted to discuss the various priorities and how the budget should support the District mission and goals. The final budget, while below the initial recommended budget put forth by the Superintendent, met the guidelines as proposed by the Finance Committee.
At the Annual Town Meeting that commenced in April the following school department budget was approved.
Reading Public Schools Budget Summary Fiscal Year 2018 Recommended Budget Administration 926, 857 Regular Day 25, 396,278 Special Needs 12, 595, 752 Other School Services 1, 745, 774 School Facilities 1, 225, 000
Total 41, 889, 661
Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System ( MCAS) Reading' s statewide prominence in the MCAS rankings continued in 2017 as Reading, once again, placed in the upper third of all Massachusetts districts in MCAS performance. This represents a significant accomplishment for a system that continues to spend below the state average on per pupil spending. This achievement continues to define Reading as a school system that always gets more performance for less money. We continue to be a frugal district that sets high expectation, and achieves these goals through a collaborative effort of the administration, the teachers, the students, and the parents. This is certainly a model to be envied throughout the
102 Commonwealth of Massachusetts. The School Committee is very proud of our accomplishments in this regard and sees this as the standard for accountability... high scores, low cost. Student Enrollment As students returned to school in September of 2016, it is apparent that our students are staying in the school system. We have seen enrollment remain steady. Student enrollment in the fall of 2016( FY2017) stood at 4, 213 students. See chart below.
Reading Public Schools Student Enrollment FY2017
Preschool 87 Elementary Schools K-5 1, 83. Middle Schools 6 — 8 1, 032 High School 9 — 12 1, 225 Special Education 36 Total 4, 213
This is the number of enrollees in our " substantially separate" Special Education classrooms. Reading students who receive full- time Special Education services outside of Reading are not counted in this chart.
Achievements
Reading Memorial High School graduated 342 young men and women in 2017. While many of our graduating seniors are attending some of the most prestigious universities in the country, all are moving into the future with a solid portfolio of skills, which will help their success in any environment they choose. While we naturally point to acceptances at schools like Cornell and Boston College as an indication of our system' s success, it is the goal of the School Committee, and a better measure of success that we find appropriate placements for all of our students, that will further prepare them to be productive, contributing citizens of our country.
In addition to the success of our graduates, we can continue to take pride in the success of our students at all levels. Our athletic programs continue to be one of the best in Massachusetts, with our student athletes demonstrating athleticism, academic achievement, and above all, sportsmanship. Our students take part in a number of statewide competitions, including the Science Olympiad program, Drama Fest, and numerous Band competitions. Our success at all levels is almost too numerous to repeat but continues to reflect on the efforts of the students, staff, and parents. We are always indebted to those in the community who provide the additional support when the school department cannot. It is this support from our PTO' s, the Boosters, the Band and Drama Parents support organizations, the Reading Education Fund, just to name a few, that provide that added support and encouragement that fosters a sense community and promotes participation and success.
103 Reading Public Schools 2017 Annual Report
John F. Doherty, Ed.D. Craig Martin Superintendent Assistant Superintendent
Gail Dowd Director of Finance
School Department
This report represents the activities, accomplishments and events of note that occurred in the Reading Public Schools during the 2017 calendar year.
Leadership Chante
Chuck Robinson was elected Chair of the Reading School Committee for the 2016- 2017 school year. Elaine Webb was elected Vice Chair of the Reading School Committee.
At the School Committee reorganization meeting in June, Chuck Robinson was elected Chair and Elaine Webb as Vice- Chair.
Eric Sprung resigned as the Principal of the Joshua Eaton School and was replaced by LisaMarie Ippolito
Debbie Butts retired as the Director of the RISE Preschool in June and was replaced by Kelley Bostwick.
Notable Events
The Reading Public Schools enters the third year of the partnership with the Wakefield Public Schools to offer programming for our post-graduate special education students.
h Reading Public Schools hosted the 11' Annual Blueprint for Educational Excellence National Institute attended by teachers and administrators from all over the country. All district staff participated— Many teachers presented workshops in all areas of curriculum.
13th Reading Public Schools held the annual Artsfest which showcased student artwork, drama and musical performances
The Class of 2017 experienced an extraordinary level of success in their efforts to matriculate into our nation' s most academically challenging programs. The following is a report on their plans: 85. 9 % - Four Year Colleges, 7. 2% - Two Year Colleges, 1. 1% - Business/ Technical/Prep Schools, and 5. 8% - Other.
104 Once again, the Reading Memorial High School students have attained scores that place the school within the top echelon of all high schools in the Commonwealth. Once again all the seniors in the class of 2017 met the MCAS graduation requirement.
98. 4% graduation rate for the Class of 2017.
Several faculty and staff members were recognized by local and national educational and professional organizations for outstanding achievement.
A World of Difference" program began its eigthth year with the focus on the commitment to a positive school culture.
Middle School students successfully compete in local, state and national competitions including National Science Olympiad, Wordmasters Challenge, District Music competitions and writing contests.
The district continues to upgrade technology.
Safe Routes to school program sponsored by the MA Department of Transportation is adopted by several schools.
Birch Meadow continued to use the " Birch Meadow Yay" program to immediately recognize students and staff who demonstrate positive behaviors in and around school.
The Barrows School continues with the " STARS" Program— Students that Act Responsibly Shine.
Joshua Eaton hosted the second annual Jr. Author Fest to celebrate student writing. Over 600 pieces of student writing was on display and shared during the day and at night.
TRRFCC ( Trustworthiness, Respect, Responsibility, Fairness, Caring, and Citizenship) Character Program continues to be strong in the Killam community and school-wide expectations were developed and shared with the entire community based on the MTSS model.
Several schools continue the Curriculum Initiatives —Open Circle and Differentiated Instruction with many teachers participating in professional development activities and workshops.
At Wood End, the Leadership Team, with the tremendous support of teaching staff, successfully implemented a mentoring program as part of our Tier 2 system of supports to better meet the individual needs of students requiring more targeted interventions.
Several students participated in the School Games Day sponsored by the Special Olympics
The Pupil Services Department continues to work, in conjunction with regular education, in the creation of internal programs and supports to assist student' s access the curriculum, and on their goal of controlling out of district costs by developing new programs. 105 Student Services Department Carolyn Wilson, Director
The Reading Public School system is committed to the provision of quality education for all students and offers an array of support services and programs in all of our schools. The Student Services Department, including special education, preschool, nursing, behavioral health and English Language Education ( ELE), offers a broad range of support services to students who meet mandated eligibility criteria. Staff, students and families have access to School Psychologists, School Adjustment Counselors, Special Education Teachers, Therapists, and a variety of consultants.
Our office is staffed with two secretaries, one for the RISE Preschool and the other the Administrative Assistant to the Director of Student Services, 7. 2 FTE Team Chairpersons, a Director of the RISE preschool, a Behavioral Health Coach and a District Data Coach. This year we welcomed the following new Team Chairpersons: Thi Rome at Birch Meadow and RISE preschool, Melissa Forbes at Reading Memorial High School and Jane Finger at Wood End Elementary School. With the retirement of Debbie Butts, Kelley Bostwick is now the RISE Preschool Director. A Team Chairperson is assigned to supervise, support and oversee needs of students, staff, and families at each of the levels from preschool to age 22 in programs both in and out of district, as well as ensure compliance with all state and federal special education regulations. This school year we continue to have the support of the district wide BCBA for some of the district wide program.
The District continues to work on implementation of the Multi-tiered System of Supports MTSS) which is a framework that allows schools to make decisions on supporting students behavioral, social emotional and academic needs. Through grant funding the District continues to support a district wide Data Coach, Courtney Fogarty. The addition of this position has allowed principals to more easily access building based data to help them make decisions about curriculum and student needs. The Data Coach works closely with each building principal and building leadership team to identify key data points that are connected to each school improvement plan and to the improvement of student outcomes. The goals are to help individual schools identify areas of need and make changes in practice or supports based on the data.
The District Wide Behavioral Health Coach provides support to teachers around social emotional learning. This year Lauren Sabella joined the Reading Public Schools in this position. Lauren coordinates training opportunities for staff around social emotional learning. This includes continuing the District' s partnership with Lesley University and offering courses on Trauma and Learning. This year we have been able to offer the Trauma 4 class which is the most advanced course for educators. The Behavioral Health Coach works closely with the counseling staff and the Therapeutic Support Program within the District. She also completes regular classroom visits; observing Open Circle Practices and advisory at the Middle School. She is also available to provide consultation and support to school based teams around mental health needs of students.
106 In order to support our students identified as English Language Learners ( ELL) Carla Pennacchio is the ELL Coordinator and Karen Hall and Francine Rubano- Jones work as ELL teachers district wide.
Program Development
Due in large part to the extensive efforts of our building principals and special education teams, we are able to continue our efforts to create appropriate programs which allow students to be educated in their community and return from out of district placements. We also have strong in- district programs located at seven of our eight schools that support the more intensive of needs of students, while keeping them in the least restrictive environment. It is also important to note that we have students from other districts that pay tuition to attend our in- district programs. This year we continue to receive referrals from other districts and are working with the sending districts to determine if they are a fit for our programs. This is a testament to the high quality of services and supports we are able to provide in these programs, while allowing opportunities for inclusion with same age peers.
The following programs are offered in the Reading Public Schools: Connections: located at Birch Meadow, Coolidge and RMHS. Compass: located at Birch Meadow, Wood End, Coolidge and RMHS. Bridge: located at Joshua Eaton, Parker and RMHS. Crossroads: located at Wood End, Coolidge and RMHS. Therapeutic Support Program ( TSP): located at Killam, Coolidge and RMHS.
This year we are completing a review of the Bridge program at Parker with an outside consultant. The goal is to determine if the practices being implemented by the staff are language based and meet the needs of students with language based learning disabilities, including Dyslexia. The Landmark School is once again consulting with the Reading Public Schools with a focus on the program at Joshua Eaton. Seven teachers are enrolled in an on- line course and follow up observations and coaching will occur between February and June.
We continue to have a collaboration with Wakefield Public Schools for our POST program for students who are 18- 22 years old. This program is housed in Wakefield and serves both Reading and Wakefield students. Students are provided with community based experiences and internship opportunities within the community.
Professional Development
In order to build the capacity of our staff to improve the quality of services and programs, our teachers, therapists, and paraprofessionals participate in extensive professional development and training throughout the year. The focus of this year is on increasing the capacity of our staff to provide specialized instruction, continued compliance with state and federal regulations and the more consistent use of data to help in measuring student progress and making decisions. The IDEA Grant and the Special Education Program Improvement Grant are focused on the use of data to improve outcomes for students with disabilities. This year special education teachers
107 have been provided with opportunities to be trained in using research based reading programs. The goals is to increase the variety of reading programs available at each building so that special education teachers can use data to determine the most appropriate type of methodology for each student. This has included training in the Lindamood Bell programs, Just Words by Wilson and the Wilson Language System.
In order to continue the work around data based decision-making the district is once again working with Allan Blume a retired professor from Simmons College. Mr. Blume is providing training on writing all components of Individual Education Programs ( IEPs) by using a linear data driven process. Special education teachers and related service providers have also been provided with opportunities to attend conferences, receive de- escalation and restraint training and continue to receive training on developing inclusive practices to support all learners.
We continue to use the professional learning community structure to help support staff. All special education program teachers are involved in a vertical PLC that is facilitated by a curriculum leader. This year these groups are reviewing student data and specific methodology that is used in each program.
The Student Services Department offers a continuum of programs and services to ensure system- wide collaboration and coordination, for students in preschool through age 22. We are committed to strong professional development and training and we take pride in innovative and creative program development. We are very proud of our organization, our schools and our students. If you need assistance from the Reading Public Schools Student Services Department, you are welcome to contact us at 781- 942- 9129.
108 OF J?
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John F. Doherty, Ed.D. READING MEMORIAL HIGH SCHOOL Adam D. Bakr Superintendent Principal
Michael P.McSweeney 62 Oakland Road, Reading, Massachusetts 01867 Jessica Theriault Tel: 781- 944- 8200 Fax: 781- 942- 5435 Thomas J. Zaya Website: http:// www.edline. net/pages/ Reading_ HS Assistant Principals
RMHS ANNUAL REPORT - 2017
RMHS CORE VALUES AND BELIEFS The primary concern of Reading Memorial High School is the preparation of students to be literate, skilled, creative, healthy, competent and informed citizens- appreciative of the arts; capable of critical thinking and problem-solving; and able to function intellectually, emotionally and physically within a complex, interdependent and pluralistic world.
As educators, we believe our work centers on the pursuit of knowledge and the cultivation of intellectual, emotional and physical well-being. We help our students enhance their ability to think by teaching the symbols and concepts through which thought and creativity take place, and by developing the skills for using those symbols and concepts. The uses of intelligence with which we are concerned include critical thinking, observing, information gathering, processing and evaluating, listening, logic, computation, oral and written communication, and the application of these skills in decision-making and problem solving. We help our students by imparting knowledge of their bodies and providing opportunities for physical activity.
We believe that a good learning community should be one that is safe, caring, consistent, fair, flexible, open and democratic. that meets the needs of all students through educational programs that promote individual fulfillment in a variety of ways as well as encompasses the complex interdependency of the world and the community. that achieves educational excellence in an environment which promotes the free and open exchange of ideas; encourages mutual respect, creative expression and problem- solving skills; fosters human dignity; and recognizes and respects racial, ethnic, cultural and sexual differences. that promotes individuality; nurtures self-esteem, health and well-being; and encourages participation in a democratic society.
109 We believe that the education of our young people is the shared responsibility of the school, stu- dent, family and community.
STUDENT ENROLLMENT—2017- 2018
The 2017 school year ended with the graduation of 345 RMHS seniors. The 2017- 2018 school year began with 1235 students enrolled at RMHS. The student body was apportioned by grade- level as follows: Grade 9 — 327 students; Grade 10— 305 students; Grade 11 — 330 students; Grade 12— 273 students.
OVERVIEW OF EDUCATION PROGRAMS
GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS Each student who successfully passes all of the required courses listed below, as well as passes the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System ( MCAS) Subject Tests in English Language Arts, Mathematics and Science will earn a diploma from Reading Memorial High School. English 8 Semesters Mathematics 6 Semesters Science 6 Semesters History/ Social Studies 6 Semesters Health & Wellness 6 Semesters Foreign Language 4 Semesters Fine Arts 2 Semesters Business/ Technology 2 Semesters
OUTCOMES OF STUDENT PERFORMANCE
MASSACHUSETTS COMPREHENSIVE ASSESSMENT SYSTEM (MCAS) Spring 2017 Results
Subject Test Advanced % Proficient % Needs Improvement % Failing
English Language Arts 59 38 3 0 Mathematics 68 26 4 2 Science 39 50 11 1
Technology (Biology)
110 SCHOLASTIC APTITUDE TESTS ( MEAN SCORES Year 4 of Test- Takers Critical Reading Math 2018 244 586 591
SAT II TESTS ( MEAN SCORES Subject 4 of Test- Takers Scores Subject Biology E 15 606 Biology M 26 606 Chemistry 31 663 Math: Level 2C 25 718 Physics 10 685
ADVANCED PLACEMENT EXAMS: CLASS OF 2017
Total number of students: 256
Total number of exams: 500
RMHS Percentage of scores 3+ 80. 9%
MA State Percentage of scores 3+ 69. 6%
ADVANCED PLACEMENT EXAMS 2017 Distinction 4 of Students AP Scholars 34
AP Scholars with Honors 17
AP Scholars with Distinction 15 National AP Scholars 01
NATIONAL MERIT SCHOLARSHIPS 2017 Distinction 4 of Students
Letters of Commendation Class 2018 08
Letters of Commendation Class 2017 03
National Merit Finalists class of 2017 02
POST SECONDARY EDUCATION Institution for Class of 2017
4 year Colleges and Universities 85. 9
2 year Colleges 7. 2 Technical Schools 1. 1 Percentage Continuing Education 94. 2
111 SCHOOL IMPROVEMENT GOALS
School Goal 1: During the 2017 —2018 school year, all constituencies in the RMHS community faculty, staff, students, and parents) will review the school' s statements of core values and beliefs about learning, as well as the articulation of academic expectations. The school community will reaffirm or revise these statements of purpose to reflect both our school' s traditions and its vision for the future and articulate clearly and consistently to all stakeholders the connection of school decisions, practices, and improvement efforts to these commonly held values.
School Goal 2: During the 2017 —2018 school year, RMHS will conduct a comprehensive review of existing instructional strategies, protocols, programs, and services that were designed to address student academic, social and emotional needs. Data will be used to guide this process. Recommendations for improvement will be identified to ensure that the school provides for these identified needs.
School Goal 3: During the 2017 —2018 school year, students will be engaged with a school- wide collection of common assessments that are constructed and revised collaboratively within departments, are aligned with the Massachusetts Frameworks, and yield data that are analyzed by faculty and used to inform classroom instruction and curriculum revision.
FACULTY AND STAFF DIRECTORY 2017- 2018
Administration Adam D. Bakr, Principal; Michael P. McSweeney, Assistant Principal; Jessica A. Theriault, Assistant Principal; Thomas J. Zaya, Assistant Principal for Athletics and Student Activities English Audra Williams, Department Head; Jennifer Baskin; Zachary Broken Rope; Christina Clawson Maura Correa; Katherine Crosby; Jane Cunningham; Heather Lombardo; Alexandra Lynch; Andrea Mooney; Leia Richardson; Nathaniel Smith Social Studies James DeBenedictis, Department Head; Caroline Allison; Jessica Bailey; David Blanchard; Patrick Dailey; Gary d' Entremont; Amy Fedele; John Fiore; Kara Gleason; Megan Howie; Paul Morrissey; Jeffrey Ryan Guidance Lynna Williams, Department Head; Jo Ann Gregorowicz; Jennifer Hagopian; Jennifer Keaney; Steven Kennedy; Sarah Meunier; Samantha Pindara Science Mary Anne Lynn, Department Head; Raymond Albright; Frank Buono; Jennifer Cambra; Michelle Chiappini; Elizabeth Dalby; Kent Hatton; Bristol Leiper; Timothy McIntire; Martha Moore; Nancy Najmi; Alexander Pancic; Fiona Schuette; William Shevory Mathematics
112 Henry Skehan, Department Head; Kelly Bedingfield; Gregory Cate; Jennifer DeCoff, Amy Dyment; Colleen Griffin-Roland; Danielle Jones; Kylie Kane; Julie LaCasse; Robert Mooney; Gary Reardon; Jane Shea; Charles Strout; Allyson Williams
Foreign Lan2ua2e Joanne Alvarez, Department Head; Giulio Binaghi; Laurie Donahue; Emeline Festa; Nancy Irons; Meaghan Janger; Janet Klein; Danja Mahoney; Tanya McSorley; Beatrix Murphy; Narcisa Niedl; Courtney Pray Business- Technolwy Heather Conner; Shelley Lynch; Steven McCarthy Fine/Performing Arts Kristin Killian, Department Head; Natalie Cunha; Kathleen Dailey; Susan Gilbert; Joseph Mulligan; Michael Radvany Wellness Katherine Fiorello, Department Head; Michelle Hopkinson; Paul Mahoney; Ann Marie Nelson Special Education Adam Blaustein, Melissa Forbes, Team Chairs; Mary Allard; Jamie Benger; Annemarie Cory; Sarah Cummings; Emma Farley; Susan Hooper; Lisa Johnson; Harlan Kroff, Debra Lanigan; Stephanie Leccese; Sharyn Matthews; Andrew Murphy; Karen Murphy; Craig Murphy; Steven Padovani; Jessica Scalzi; Catherine Taglilatela Special Ed Assistants Kathleen Crowley; Patricia Dababneh; Colleen DiMattei; Deborah Ford; Jessica Greenbaum; Patrick Mahoney; Daniel McCarron; Abhishek Ranjan; Linda Russo; Lisa Thomas; Vanessa Turner Library/Media Center Sharon Burke Library/ Media Specialist NURSE Lynn Dunn, Director; Mary Ellen Kirwan Secretarial Staff Lynne Cerretani-Clarke; Geraldine Donahue; Kathleen Drummey; Illeana Napoli; Carmen O' Rourke; Stacy Scouten Food Service Kristin Morello, Director; John Suda, Manager; Maria Caruso; Katrina Ferrari; Joanne Fuccione; Nancy Learned; Mary Messuri; Linda Ott-Palmisan; Charlene Repetto Maintenance Paul Collins; Paul Dudley; Moe Hillis; Joseph LaVita
Resource Officer Officer Brian Lewis
113 Arthur W. Coolidge Middle School: Annual Report, 2017
Sarah Marchant, Principal Christian Huizenga, Interim Assistant Principal (February 2016— June 2017) Brienne Karow, Assistant Principal( July 2017— present)
Introduction The mission ofCoolidge Middle School is to create a challenging and respectful environmentfor all students and to provide the varied experiences necessary for becoming confident, independent learners. The Arthur W. Coolidge Middle School continues to strengthen this mission byfostering a " learning community" for all, including staff, students, and parents. Our school community is characterized by a shared mission and vision, collective inquiry that accompanies a constant striving to improve, an organizational structure ofcollaborative teams that share a common purpose, a willingness to try new approaches, and annual self-assessment to examine results. As we continue striving to successfully address the social, physical, intellectual, and emotional needs ofall our students, we lookforward to accomplishing the new goals setforth in our School Improvement Plan while at the same time, we celebrate our successes ofthe previous year. Below are just afew ofthe highlights...
Coolidge Core Values The foundation of the Coolidge community are its core values of Perseverance, Accountability, Respect, and Teamwork. All members of the Coolidge community are expected to be P. A.R.T." of these core values, including students, staff, and parents.
2017— 2018 School Improvement Plan: Goal& Focus Areas
Goal
Coolidge will continue to narrow the achievement gap through the implementation of structures that better support student learning as well as through the ongoing use of data to inform decisions regarding student needs. During the 2017-2018 school year, this goal will be met through: the introduction ofaformal Advisory Curriculum, the implementation ofan Intervention and Support( What I Need/ " WIN') 7th block, an increase in differentiation in ( grade) math, and the implementation ofaformal Student Support Team ( SST) process. These will be combined with our ongoing use ofstudent data, tiered supports and interventions, andpositive feedback and reinforcement.
In alignment with District Goals A - E)
Focus Area A: Social Emotional Growth and Advisory Coolidge will continue to build opportunities to incorporate and enhance or social- emotional learning opportunities for students. Of great priority, in collaboration with Parker Middle School and the " Facing History and Ourselves" organization, we will develop a curriculum and structure within which teachers will work with students in small Advisory groups. As a result of this curriculum and structure, students will increase their sense of identity (self/ Advisory/ school/
114 community), increase empathy and understanding for others, build connectedness ( student to student; student to teacher), and decrease incidents of unkindness and bullying.
In alignment with District Focus Areas A & D)
Focus Area B: Intervention and Support To create structures that better provide the intervention and support opportunities for students in need, and the decision making processes to provide appropriate supports. This will include the implementation of a" What I Need" opportunity for students who have demonstrated, through various criteria, a need for Tier 2 intervention and support( in areas such as: mathematics, social- emotional, and executive functioning). To implement these supports, to track student progress within, and to adjust supports and student groupings to meet student needs. This will also include integrating a new Student Support Team ( SST) process.
In alignment with District Focus Areas A, B, C, & D)
Focus Area C: Math Differentiation In order to best challenge and support all students in mathematics, we will provide the structures, professional development, collaboration time, and resources to support increased differentiation
7t' and co- teaching in the grade math classes and beyond.
In alignment with District Focus Areas A & C)
Academic, Behavior, and Emotional Support and Alignment
Students are best ready to learn and to maximize their potential when they feel emotionally safe and present, and when behaviors are not interrupting their learning. To that end, we support all students socially, emotionally, behaviorally, and academically. We continue to develop the capacity of the staff, as well as our resources, to support these efforts.
Positive Behavior & Supports Coolidge continues to use its Core Values at the core of its daily principals for students and staff alike. These core values are modeled, taught, reinforced, and refined for different locations in the school. Following a year- long kick-off by our leadership team, all staff have now integrated many positive behavior incentives for students, including a ticket system for when students model what is expected; students who go " above and beyond" are awarded the prestigious Coolidge Commendation awards.
Facing History and Ourselves: Development and Implementation of a new Advisory Program Thanks to the support of the district' s School Transformation Grant, both middle schools joined with the " Facing History and Ourselves" organization to develop a series of Advisory sessions that went into effect in the fall of 2017. These sessions, completed in small advisory groups consisting of one teacher and 13- 14 students, cover topics such as identity, community, membership in communities, bias, and building empathy. This resource has provided a consistent Advisory experience for all Reading middle schoolers, in an effort to fight bullying.
115 Tiered Interventions: Strengthening Tier 1; Developing Tier 2 This year, the concept and use of tiered interventions have become common practice in our everyday plan of what we provide for students. We continue to focus on building strong Tier 1 instruction and support so that all students have a strong foundation for academic, behavioral, and social- emotional development. We have built structures to better support Tier 2 supports within the school day through the implementation of a" What I Need" intervention block, which is provided two mornings a week for 22 minutes.
Student Support Team Process Developed and Formalized After a year of research, development and piloting, Coolidge now has a formalized Student Support Team. The SST team is a team consisting of a mix of an administrator, student support staff, and other teachers who work together to help teams of teachers to provide supports for struggling students when our more standard Tier 2 supports, or DCAP supports, are not meeting student needs.
Student Activities and Programs
Enriching opportunities strongly enhance the middle school program. To that end, we provide as many enriching opportunities as possible, many of which are supported by the Coolidge PTO and other financial supports in the district. Some examples include:
6th Welcome to Coolidge" for Incoming Grade In August, we once again offered our acclaimed transition program Welcome to Coolidge for
6t' incoming grade students. This program prepares students for a stress- free start to the school year. Participants get to know some staff members, become comfortable with the building layout, locate their locker ( and learn how to open a combination lock), and know what is expected of a sixth grade student. They get to review their middle school schedule, participate in team building activities, and learn about the importance of a" growth mindset". Over a hundred students attended, and students not only learned useful information... but also ( and most importantly) had a great time!
8th Challenge Day" for All Grade Students Thanks to the support and vision of our district, and as one social- emotional support offered to
8t' our students, all of the graders in our district participated in " Challenge Day" over the course 8th of four days in October. On each day, two Challenge Day leaders guided approximately 80 graders, along with 20 adults ( parents, administration, school committee members, and staff), through the experience over the course of a school day. The purpose of Challenge Day is for every child ( and adult) to feel safe, loved, and celebrated", to be honest and proud about who we are, and to appreciate and respect others for who they are.
Nature' s Classroom" at Prindle Pond
7th 25th Approximately 75 Coolidge graders participated in our annual Nature' s Classroom program at Prindle Pond during April break. Many thanks to teachers Mr. Jerry Coyne and Ms. Anna Wentlent, who organized and chaperoned the trip. Special thanks to all the staff and parent chaperones who helped make this such a wonderful experience for all the students!
116 Trip to New York City 81h In June, Team Pegasus graders traveled to New York City. Students had the opportunity to learn more about our country' s immigrant and cultural history by taking a boat tour of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. They also viewed NYC from the Top of the World, visited the NBC Studios, ate dinner at an authentic Cuban restaurant, and saw a Broadway production. Thanks to all the students who attended for being wonderful representatives of the school, to Coolidge teachers for chaperoning the adventures, and to Ms. Warren for coordinating and leading the trip!
Trip to Quebec In April, Team Gemini 8 ' graders traveled to Quebec City. Students had the opportunity to use their French language, partake in French cuisine, and visit many famous sites in Quebec. Thanks to all of the students who attended for being wonderful representatives of the school, to Coolidge teachers for chaperoning the adventures, and to Ms. Doyon for coordinating and leading the trip!
Student Mentors Mr. Huizenga, our Interim Assistant Principal, and Ms. Karow, our new Assistant Principal, continued to support our very successful student mentor program. This program consists of high 8th school students and Coolidge graders who volunteer to mentor younger students. This program has helped many middle school students to attain better organizational skills, achieve at higher academic levels, and make better social connections.
Coolidge Drama Presents Beauty and the Beast In January 2017, Coolidge Drama Club enjoyed producing the musical Beauty and the Beast, and it was a great success. Congratulations to Director Lori Loussedes, Musical Coordinator Anna Wentlent, and to all the cast and crew!
24th Annual" Olympiad Day" In January 2017, Coolidge held our annual John F. McCarthy Olympiad Day. This day is a wonderful tradition at Coolidge, and brings the entire school community together. Thanks to all the parent volunteers, to all the students, to all the staff for once again coordinating a very successful and enjoyable day, and to the Coolidge PTO, who financially supports the day.
Family Math& Science Night In March, Coolidge presented its annual Family Math& Science Night for students in grades 5 - 8 and their family members. Hundreds of students and parents enjoyed a fun evening of math, science, engineering, and technology activities. It also provided an excellent transition activity 6th for the fall' s entering graders. Special thanks to Coolidge math teachers Lisa Emma and Amy Kasprzak for coordinating this night, and to all the parents and teachers who volunteered their time and efforts to make the evening a success.
Special Olympics For the last 13 years, students from the Reading Public Schools have participated in the annual Special Olympics. This year, Reading ( and Coolidge) again sent many athletes to participate in the track and field events, and the spirit and enthusiasm by our athletes, coaches, and their supporters were incredible. Congratulations to all the medal winners and thanks to all the
117 Reading staff and students who participated this year! Special thanks also go out to Ms. Herlihy for coordinating the trip for the students that day, and to all the district' s staff and students who represented Reading so proudly at this event.
ADL Training and Leadership 20+ Coolidge students in the Anti-Defamation League' s " A World of Difference" program
61 participated in trainings, Move-Up Day, school assemblies, and led graders through activities to build empathy.
School-Based Outreach In December, approximately 50 Coolidge students visited Birch Meadow to help support the National Hour of Code.
PTO Supports Enrichment, After School Activities, and Assemblies Every year, various enrichment opportunities and assemblies are available to students based on student and teacher interest. Many of these enrichment opportunities are made possible thanks to the support of the Coolidge PTO. All-school assemblies provided by the PTO included author Tara Sullivan, motivational speaker Michael Fowlin, and Understanding Disabilities speaker Chad Hymas. All-school and community activities supported by the PTO include: Olympiad Day, Field Day, and Family Math& Science Night. After school activities supported by PTO include: " Drop the Bass" Acapella, Dodge Ball, Ultimate Frisbee, BOLD for girls, and Homework Hangout. After school academic support is also supported by the PTO including Homework Policy Referral (HPR) and after school library hours ( until 3: 40).
6t' Additional in- school enrichment opportunities provided by the PTO included grade 6t' 8th Tanglewood Marionettes; grade Kite Day; and an grade production of Romeo and Juliet.
These opportunities are so very appreciated by our students; we appreciate the support of the PTO and all of the parents who contribute to the PTO!
Additional Enrichment Opportunities Additional enrichment opportunities ( made possible by district grants) included: PASS Class, the yearly musical, Student Council, Student Yearbook and A World of Difference.
Student Honors
Coolidge was proud that many students were again recognized for their talents in various programs and/ or competitions throughout the year. Just a few examples include...
Science Olympiad Team: State Champs and National Competitors In March, the Coolidge Science Olympiad Team won first place in the Massachusetts Middle School Science Olympiad State Competition at Assumption College in Worcester,
24th Massachusetts. This is the year that the team has earned the honor of representing the Commonwealth of Massachusetts at the National Science Olympiad Competition, which took
26th place in May at Wright State University. The team placed out of 60 teams. Congratulations 118 to all the students on the team, to Head Coach Karawan Meade, to Assistant Coaches Jerald Coyne and Daniel Cody, and to all the other teachers, coaches, community members, and high school team alumni who guided and supported this year' s team! Congratulations and thanks as well to the parent organization whose support helps to make everything possible!
Jazz Band Receives Gold Medal Congratulations to all the students of the Middle School Jazz Band, and director Holly Galant, for receiving a gold medal at the Massachusetts Association for Jazz Education Festival!
Northeastern Junior District Music Festival Eight Coolidge students were selected (by audition) for the Northeast Massachusetts District Junior Music Festival, a prestigious Massachusetts Music Educators' Association event. The program, for students in grades six through nine, is offered by the M.M.E.A. as an enrichment opportunity, providing a musical experience to talented young people. These students were chosen from among hundreds of students at the regional auditions in Methuen. Congratulations to everyone on this great achievement!
Northeastern Junior District Music Festival Katrina Mirogiannis, Julia Mullen, Kylie Encarnacao, and Timmy Duggan were selected for the northeastern district festival choruses, held in Wakefield, MA in March 2017.
Geography Bee Congratulations to all the students who participated in the annual Coolidge Geography Bee, and 7t' especially to the 2017 Bee Champion, grader Dylan Herlihy, whose win was the second in two consecutive years. Thanks go out also to the Social Studies teachers of Coolidge for serving as organizers and judges for the bee, and to John Doherty, Superintendent of Schools, for being the host and moderator of this all- school event. Great job, everyone!
ELA Awards and Recognition Team Polaris placed fifth overall out of 125 schools for the Wordmaster' s Challenge
7t' In the Scholastic Art and Writing Contest, graders earned one Gold key, two Silver Keys, and three Honorable Mentions. 8t' grader Anabel Moda was a 2017 Semi- Finalist in the Letters About Literature competition. Semi- Finalists make it through three rounds of judging and represent the top ten percent of letters written in the category this year.
Art Awards and Recognition
0 Six students had artwork featured at the MAEA show in Boston at the Transportation building.
6t' 6t' grader Samantha Panarti's artwork was elected as the grade piece to represent the entire state at the National Art Education Convention in NYC.
8t' grader Oliva Pineau received an Honorable Mention in Printmaking for the Boston Globe Scholastic Art Awards.
8t' grader Olivia Parzaile received Honorable Mention for the MAEA state flag competition.
119 Charity and Community Awareness Coolidge students again participated in many charitable and humanitarian efforts, benefiting a variety of organizations. Below are just a few examples from the year...
Stn Annual" Hoops for Heart" Day 7h Coolidge held its annual " Hoops for Heart" event in February, and raised approximately 10, 000 for the American Heart Association! Our thanks go out to the many students who participated in the day' s events and to everyone who made the Coolidge day such a tremendous success! Special thanks as well to Mr. Huizenga and Ms. White, who coordinated the event and to all the staff who helped make this a day full of incredible school spirit! While encouraging community service, the " Hoops for Heart" day is also an educational program, with messages of staying tobacco- free, eating healthy, and exercising regularly— all while raising dollars critical to the development of lifesaving research. Congratulations to everyone for participating, for showing tremendous school spirit, and for helping to raise money for a great cause!
Thanksgiving Food Drive The Coolidge family once again supported the Reading Food Pantry as part of our annual Thanksgiving Assembly. " Team Explorer" coordinated the food drive and assembly this year, and dozens of boxes of food and necessities were again donated to the Reading Food Pantry. Thanks to all the staff and students who made the assembly and food drive so successful, and especially for giving so many people something to be thankful for during the holiday season.
National Wear Red Day Coolidge supported the American Heart Association' s national " Wear Red Day" in February. Heart disease is the No. l killer in America, and one in every 3 deaths in the US is due to cardiovascular disease. Many Coolidge students and staff wore red to show their commitment to the fight against heart disease and raised money for the American Heart Association.
Coats for Kids In conjunction with Anton' s Cleaners, students from our Compass classroom spearheaded a Coats for Kids initiative. Hundreds of coats were donated from the Coolidge community!
Ben' s Big Benefit Show In June 2017, current eighth grader Ben Mini organized, hosted, and headlined the third annual Ben's Big Benefit Concert to raise money for child- and music- focused charities in the Boston area. Several other Coolidge students performed at the concert, including Julia Mullen, Evan Kerr, and Sean Douglass. Ben was honored by Channel 7' s " Class Act" segment for his dedication to community service!
Professional Development, School Improvement Efforts, and Staff/School Honors The Coolidge community again coordinated and/or participated in many initiatives and events in order to build school spirit, to assess our current programs, and to sustain our continuous improvement efforts. Below are just a few examples from the year... 120 Facing History and Ourselves To help build staff capacity with the Facing History concepts, as well as to support our staff with leading Advisory groups using the Facing History curriculum, all Coolidge teachers and some paraeducators went through one full day of training at the start of the school year and a second two- hour training in December. This training was facilitated by the Facing History and Ourselves staff.
Blue Ribbon National Institute The Reading Public Schools was proud to again partner with Blue Ribbon Schools of Excellence to present our annual Blueprintfor Educational Excellence National Institute in April. The Institute featured local, regional, and national educators attending high-quality professional development opportunities and visiting classrooms throughout the district. Many Coolidge teachers presented at this conference. Thanks to everyone who helped make the Institute so successful!
Professional Learning Communities All teachers participated in Professional Learning Communities with their middle- level counterparts from Parker Middle School. These groups met at least once per month. Focus areas of their work included: alignment of curriculum; development of curriculum maps; development, implementation and discussion of Common Measures; new standards and resources ( Science); sharing best practices and lessons; looking at student work.
Collaborative Groups Once per month, teachers met in building-based collaborative groups to work on topics of interest, with a focus on professionally growing and/or developing an aspect of our students or school. These groups included: Using Text-Based Discussions to Develop Empathy (which ultimately led to an REF grant and grade- level books); Math MCAS Data: Digging Down, Creating Interventions; Middle School-Related TED Talks: Listen & Reflect; Collaborative Problem Solving Model ( Ross Greene).
Coolidge Receives Multiple Grants from the Reading Education Foundation Coolidge received multiple Reading Education Foundation grants, including: two grade- level sets of books to anchor discussions around topics of bullying, empathy, and acceptance; a monitor and software for the foyer, as well as art supplies for a mural, both of which will focus on celebrating students.
Coolidge Teachers Participate in Multiple Professional Development Opportunities Coolidge teachers participated in many enriching PD opportunities, which included: Mentor training, Youth Mental Health training, QBS ( de- escalation) training, Art teacher Sarah Doane participated in the National Art Teachers Conference in New York City, Writer' s Workshop/ Lucy Calkins Training for ELA teachers.
121 Walter S. Parker Middle School 2017 Annual Report Richele Shankland, Principal Brendan Norton, Assistant Principal
Introduction: The Walter S. Parker Middle School is a school community dedicated to the core values of kindness, community and personal best. Through a true middle school model, team-based approach, the staff focuses on developing and teaching the whole- child.
Mission Statement: At the Parker Middle School we strive to maintain a school culture that balances a rigorous and engaging learning community with a child-centered environment that honors the individual talents and struggles of every child. We acknowledge that, in the middle school years, our students face some of the most dramatic physical, social and emotional growth of their lives. Thus, it is our responsibility, in partnership with parents, to teach critical skills andprovide the adult guidance that will help students grow to lead confident, responsible andproductive lives.
School Improvement Plan: Goals Goal # 1: We will explore, implement and track strategies to more effectively address the academic, social, emotional needs and behavioral health of our students.
Goal# 2: We will identify and develop strategies for differentiation to increase our effectiveness with all students. This includes strategies to better support struggling learners, to more effectively meet the needs of diverse learners and to better challenge students at all levels.
Student Activities and Programs
6th Welcome to Parker for Incoming Grade Students In August, we offered our annual transition program for incoming 6th graders. Students have the 6th opportunity to become familiar with the school, their schedules, and several of our grade teachers. Some of our Parker Leaders participated and played a huge role in setting incoming students at ease by answering questions/providing insight and perspective.
Advisory New this year...students participate in one- two 40 minute advisory periods per week using resources from Facing History and Ourselves. The advisory program is designed to strengthen connectedness between adults and students and to ` foster a personalized and supportive school culture. " In advisory time, students will be given opportunities to explore themes from Facing History and Ourselves such as bullying, ostracism andparticipation from a social and emotional perspective. Conversations and relationships built in advisory contribute to a caring, responsible and responsive school culture. Students develop a sense of who they can become, exercise their voice, explore relevant ethical and social issues, and then be more disposed to contribute to school and the larger community.
122 Challenge Day for 8" Grade Students
8h For our third year, grade students participated in Challenge Day. Each team had their own day with two Challenge Day leaders and 23 adults ( parents, teachers, administrators, school resource officer, community members). A focus on social- emotional learning, the purpose of the day is to 1) provide teens and adults with tools to break down the walls of separation and isolation and replace them with compassion. 2) To inspire people to live, study and work in an environment of acceptance, love and respect. 3) To stand for a world where everyone feels safe, loved and
celebrated."
Gay- Straight Alliance This club embodies our school core values of kindness and community. Our GSA meets on Fridays throughout the school year and is dedicated to promoting a school culture that is accepting of all differences within our school community. Nature' s Classroom Becket MA
7t About 150 Parker grade students participated in our annual Nature' s Classroom program in October. Mr. Brendan Norton coordinated the 3 day/2 night trip. At Nature' s Classroom, students take an active role in their education by participating in exciting hands- on motivational activities which are both academic and enjoyable. The project-oriented classes and night-time activities offer opportunities for community building and extending their learning outside of the classroom.
Quebec Trip About 40 eighth grade French students traveled to Quebec in April. Complete immersion into the culture allowed for students to use their French language, visit historical sites and enjoy French cuisine.
Parker Leaders About 26 sixth, seventh and eighth grade Parker students helped to organize and facilitate many of the community service projects throughout the school year. A new project this year was a collaboration with the Tannerville assisted living residents to hold a holiday social with games, food, crafts and conversation. Parker students have also volunteered to assist with evening school activities, including but not limited to, curriculum/transition nights, Welcome to Parker, open house, etc.
A World of Difference
New to Parker this year... AWOD' s mission is to make our school a safe place for everyone, regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, gender, nationality, sexual orientation, or physical and mental abilities. Members are trained to educate peers about inclusion and respect. At the middle school level, trained members facilitate activities in grade 6 classrooms, school-wide efforts and serve as role models in the school. We have 30 students participating in AWOD for the 2017- 2018 school year.
Peer Tutors
8t' Mrs. Meg Powers, our instructional technology specialist/teacher, hosts the grade peer tutors on Mondays to assist any Parker students with their homework, organization and/ or study skills.
123 Parker Drama: Once On This Island Over 100 students participated in either cast or crew roles in Once On This Island in March.
Select Chorus In December, the Select Chorus performed at the Senior Center.
Science Olympiad Every March, Parker' s Science Olympiad Team competes against other middle schools state- wide. The competition is typically held at Assumption College. Our team meets every Monday throughout the school- year.
School Based Outreach
8t In 2017, our grade students visited Joshua Eaton Elementary School to share their science stories with younger students. Every spring, we have eighth grade students visit Joshua Eaton 5t' and Barrows Elementary Schools with Mr. Norton( Assistant Principal) to speak with graders about the transition to middle school. Every spring, multiple Parker students visit the same schools with Mr. Norton (band teacher) and Mrs. Di Muzio ( chorus/ music teacher) to talk about our band and choral programs.
Enrichment Opportunities Offered Within the School Day Every year, students participate in a variety of curriculum-based activities during the school day. These activities are largely funded by our Parker PTO. In 2017, this included the following 6t' 7t' activities: WISE ( see below), grade Dirt Detectives/ Spencer Pierce Farm field trip, grade
6t' field trip to see A Christmas Carol at the Northshore Music Theater, grade Myth Masters 8th Assembly, grade Romeo and Juliet assembly with Shakespeare Now, and a school-wide assembly with Dr. Anna Ornstein ( Holocaust survivor).
Writing Day Celebrations Each of these days began with whole school assemblies featuring speakers sponsored by our PTO. Following the assemblies, students attended writing workshops in small groups of 10- 15. Workshops were be led by our guest speakers, Parker staff, parents, and community members.
May 2017: Tara Sullivan, author of The Bitter Side of Sweet December 2017: Michael Blanding, investigative journalist
W.LS. E.: Women In Science and Engineering Twelve eighth grade students joined Mrs. Peterson and Ms. Gilbert on a field trip to Salem State University where they participated in workshops facilitated by men and women in math, science and engineering related fields. The impressive keynote speaker was Danielle Niles, morning Meteorologist for CBS Boston' s WBZ- TV.
Spanish Field Trip 8t' grade Spanish students enjoyed a day field trip to Margarita' s restaurant for lunch and a demonstration of how fresh salsa and guacamole are made. Then, they go to Studio 665, in Woburn, to have lessons on salsa and merengue dancing. 124 Science Expo Day For a whole day, each grade level focused on a specific science project: Grade 6 Teams: popsicle stick bridges Grade 7 Teams: perform and present your own experiment Grade 8 Teams: build and test catapults
Grade 8 Boston Field Trip Eighth grade students attended this trip in June 2017 and October 2017. In both June and October, all students started their day by participating in a community service project collecting items for and assembling kindness kits for the Pine Street Inn in Boston. In June, students then enjoyed a lunch/dance cruise on the Odyssey, Boston Mad Dash Scavenger Hunt, dinner at Quincy Marketplace, and ended the day by attending the show Shear Madness. In October, the current eighth grade students participated in a similar trip: Fenway Tour, lunch/dance cruise on the Spirit, IMAX movie, dinner at Quincy Marketplace and ended the evening with the Ghosts and Graveyards Tour.
Enrichment Opportunities Offered Outside of the School Day Although our after- school activities change throughout the year and from year to year based on student and teacher interests, the following after school activities have been available to Parker students: math team, Science Olympiad, GSA, Jazz Band, Select Chorus, art club, needlework, study skills, fitness, basketball, open gym, chess club, anime, chess etc. In addition to these activities, we also have homework club and after school library hours until 4: 00 pm.
Special Acknowledgements
Parker Music Department Accomplishments for Jan 2017- Jan 2018 Reading Middle Schools Jazz Band— Gold medal at the MAJE competition, as well as performing at both Parker& Coolidge spring & winter concerts.
7th & 8th Band day at RMHS — grade bands combined with CMS & RMHS bands
8th Brought in 2 clinicians/ adjudicators to assess and work our grade band & chorus in
7th preparation for the spring concerts. These clinics were observed by the grade band/chorus students as an educational activity. The day concluded with an after-school trip to Canobie Lake.
8th grade chorus performed for the Final Day of School Assemblies Decorated & donated a Christmas tree for the REF Festival of Trees ( we solicited donations of$ 150 in iTunes gift cards, as well as direct music parent donations to REF) Middle Schools Select Chorus performed at the Reading Senior Center Parker Wind Ensemble: performed at winter & spring concerts Parker Percussion Ensemble: performed at the spring concert Select Chorus performed for the spring & winter concerts for both Coolidge & Parker
6th, 7th/ 8th Arts Fest: grade groups rehearsed & performed together with Coolidge ensembles. Organized a food drive for the Reading Food Pantry as part of ArtsFest( over 20 boxes of food were donated by music/ art families and delivered to the Pantry).
5th Instrument Nights ( 2 nights for grade students to try instruments to aid in appropriate instrument selection)
125 Several middle school band/ chorus students ( with Mr. Norton & Mrs. DiMuzio) went to
5t' Killam, Eaton, & Barrows to do music demo for graders
6t' 6t' Move-up day performances of the grade band & grade chorus 0 " Once On This Island, Jr." was presented to the public on 3/ 9, 3/ 10 & 3/ 11. Also, a portion of it was presented to the school on Wed., 3/ 8.
6t', 7t', & 8t' grade spring & winter concerts —6 in total.
Parker National Geographic Bee Ten students participated in the 2017 Parker National Geographic Bee. Jack Mendez was the winner who advanced to the state level competition.
Blueprint for Educational Excellence Annual Institute In March 2017, Parker teachers participated in the Blue Ribbon Conference held in Reading. Three Parker staff presented their own workshops.
Students from Ecuador Visit Parker in March
7t' 8th Our and grade teachers, students and Mrs. Sonnia Maria O' Connor hosted 7 students from Ecuador for 5 weeks in the spring. They were completely immersed in the culture of Reading and the Parker community. Our students were paired with Equadorian students and were terrific ambassadors representing our community. Ms. Leah Cristi organized and facilitated this terrific experience.
Will McDonough Boston Sports Museum Essay Writing Contest One sixth grade student won this contest in 2017.
Northeastern Junior District Music Festival Twenty-two Parker students were selected after auditions for the 2017 Northeast Massachusetts District Junior Music Festival, a prestigious Massachusetts Music Educators' Association event. The program, for students in grades six through nine, is offered by the M.M.E.A. as an enrichment opportunity, providing a musical experience to talented young people. These students were chosen from hundreds of students at the regional auditions in Methuen.
Math Team The Parker 7/ 8 Math Team placed third overall in their division.
Community Service/Awareness Along-side many teacher leaders, our Parker Leaders facilitate the following community outreach efforts: Heroes Among Us Assembly featuring a former Parker student who has made a difference in the lives of others and models our core values. Reading Food Pantry Food Drive Coats for Kids —Partnership with Anton' s Cleaners to collect gently used coats for kids and adults Tannerville Social— Parker Leaders and advisors coordinated and participated in a holiday social event with seniors.
126 Festival of Trees —Parker students/ teachers and PTO donated FOUR trees for 2017. Hoops for Heart—Parker students raise money for the American Heart Association by participating in a 3 on 3 basketball tournament. Cribbage Tournament— Pairs students with senior citizens from the Reading Senior Center Math-a- thon— Math competition benefiting St. Jude' s Hospital raising over $2500. Showcase for a Cause— Talent show where acts showcased causes for awareness. The chosen act resulted in $332 being donated to St. Jude' s Children' s Research Hospital.
Professional Development Parker staff are continuously working to increase their professional knowledge, improve their practice and increase their professional network. Staff have taken advantage of the following professional development opportunities ( listed by topic): o MCAS Assessment o QBS Training o Alan Bloome: IEP Writing Training o Mahesh Sharma: Math Intervention Training Summer Course— 9 teachers participated!)
o Gene Thompson Grove: All Kinds of Minds Summer/ Fall Course— 3 teachers participated!)
o Mentor Training o Trauma Workshop o Landmark Training to support language based learners ( both special educators and content teachers) o Mental Health Training o MCAS Assessment and Development Committee ( ELA) o Just Words Training o Seeing Stars o PBIS Training o Primary Source Workshop o Differentiated Instruction
o Next Generation Science Standards
o Shape America Convention (Wellness) o Facing History and Ourselves Workshops Social Justice, A New Conversation about Race, Holocaust Workshops
Full Staff Professional Development: o Facing History and Ourselves: Advisory o Anti-Defamation League: Anti-bias training
Professional Development provided by Parker staff to the district: o Math Intervention Strategies o Reading Panel: Orton- Gillingham, LiPs, Seeing Stars, Just Words)
127 Reading Education Foundation: Grants
Social Media/Internet Safety Speaker: Katie Greer ( Grades 6- 8 and parents) A. M. Barrows Elementary School Principal Heather Leonard
2017 brought another year of engagement and excitement at Barrows Elementary. Barrows continues to focus on teaching the whole child; academically, socially, and emotionally while fostering a strong community of learners and their families.
Curriculum and Instruction During the 2017 year Barrows teachers continued to implement curriculum resources aligned with our MA state curriculum frameworks. Grounding resources utilized to meet our mathematics curriculum continue to be the Math in Focus Program. Additionally, our Kindergarten, First, and Second grade staff had the opportunity to participate in a 3- day training of Developing Number Concepts resources which partners a targeted assessment and curriculum resources to inform teachers about student progress and plan targeted and appropriate instruction. Students were observed engaged in rich math conversation, utilizing math manipulatives, and challenging themselves with complex mathematical problem solving.
Barrows teachers and staff continue to implement the Lucy Calkins Units of Study, Writing Workshop structure within their writing blocks. We have had trainers in residence to provide professional learning opportunities for teachers across grades right in our Reading classrooms, continuing to strengthen our practices across district. Students have really blossomed in their writing interest and capacity across grades K-5.
Know Atom curriculum has been implemented in all classrooms, grades 3- 5. Teachers had the opportunity to join a day of professional learning around Science standards and instruction in November at the " Next Gen STEM Conference." This program teaches critical thinking and problem- solving skills through exploration and peer collaboration. Students participated in an hour of code, and drop- in coding sessions for grades K-5 have fostered increased access and interest in computer science.
Barrows teachers work together with Reading district colleagues within Professional Learning Communities;( collaborative teams) around common curriculum and instruction and on cross- district grade level teams.
Barrows staff utilize multiple cycles of collaboration and data analysis to examine our instruction and student growth. Teachers work together with grade- level colleagues to look at our tier 1 and tier 2 data, and also access tier 3 supports through our Student Support Team structure. Our academic tutoring team provides supports to students across academic areas. Tutors provide small group or individual support for students that require review or repeated exposure, they work with the whole class which allows the teacher to work more intensely with students that require it, and they also provide opportunities for extensions for those students meeting the standards. Additionally, we continued our " What I Need" intervention opportunity for students in grades 3- 5 outside of the school day to build and support skill development in the core content 128 areas. The tutors work closely with reading specialist Patricia Flaherty and collect data about student progress to share with teaching staff.
School Community/Social Emotional Learning
Our Barrows Social Emotional learning is a priority and continues to be a focus area for our professional work. Our Barrows' Beliefs are embraced by all students and staff members who can recite our core values ( Be Respectful, Be Safe, Persevere, and Collaborate.) Our ongoing positive recognition system celebrates students when they are " caught" showing expected behaviors with an innovated online input system developed by Carina Becker and our MTSS Leadership Team. Our ongoing efforts ensure that all staff members hold consistent expectations and have common language to teach appropriate school behavior to our students. All Barrows classroom teachers are trained in the social emotional curriculum of Open Circle, and lessons continue to be shared with students across all grade levels. Buddy classrooms is a Barrows tradition that partners upper grade- levels ( 3- 5) with a younger buddy in a lower grade- level (K-2) to read to each other, do collaborative activities, and create positive relationships across our grade- levels. Our annual winter holiday sing- along was a great event that partnered buddy classrooms together to sing winter songs in their cozy pajamas.
Faculty and Staff We welcomed new faculty and staff to the Barrows community for the 2017- 18 school year 2nd 5d' include Vittoria Penna( grade), Stefanie Sweeney ( grade), Randy Dittman ( Special Education), Joan Duffy (Special Education), Lindsey Jacobs ( School Psychologist), Amanda Mennell ( Tutor), Sandy McLaughlin (Paraeducator), and Ann Whalen (Paraeducator.) Barrows 5d' Assistant Principal for 2017- 18 is grade teacher Andrew Herlihy.
Students Barrows Elementary School served around 370 students ranging from kindergarten through grade five. There are three classrooms of each grade level, 4 second grade classrooms, and two of our three kindergarten classrooms are integrated( half day and full day students together.)
Nature' s Classroom
7775t All grade students from across Reading Nature' s Classroom overnight camp in NH this fall. Students made connections across schools and learned through hands on experiences with science, engineering, collaboration, creativity, local history, and more. The students were able to 5d' work collaboratively with classmates across the district and bond as a grade class.
School Council The Barrows School Council is flourishing with participation from many staff, parents, and community members. The School Council included the following members for 2016- 2017 included; Carina Becker, Teacher, Deanna Dodge, Parent, Patricia Flaherty, Teacher, Jaclyn Gargano, Teacher, Julie Gilchrist, Teacher, Heather Leonard, Principal, Co- Chair, Andrea Mackey, Parent, Heather McClain, Teacher, Joseph Petty, Parent, Co- Chair, Cynthia Runge, Parent, and Janee Tichy, Parent. The 2017- 2018 School Council includes; Deanna Dodge, 129 Parent; Patricia Flaherty, Teacher; Jaclyn Gargano, Teacher; Julie Gilchrist, Teacher; Heather Leonard, Principal; Andrea Mackey, Parent; and Janee Tichy, Parent. The School Council utilized feedback from parents, staff, and students to form the School Improvement Plan with three year goals. Our current School Improvement Plan includes the following goals; Barrows Goal 41: Barrows School will meet the academic needs of all students. The focus will be on closing the achievement gap for all students. We will frequently and consistently utilize current and accurate student data to set goals for student learning. We will have sufficient and appropriate resources and instructional practices to provide targeted learning opportunities for all students. Barrows Goal 42: We will create safe structures for students and staff, promote student empowerment, and define appropriate response protocols for safety and behavior in order to assure that our students are safe: emotionally, physically and psychologically. The achievement of this goal will be measured through the implementation of the Multi- Tiered System of Support( MTSS) frameworks achieving 80% or greater on Tiered Fidelity Implementation ( TFI) tool, fully trained staff on all district safety protocols, and 100% of teachers utilizing Open Circle to promote student empowerment.
Technology The technology enhancement within our school is more than another tool. It provides access for many students including online learning supports differentiated for student needs, increased access, and opening doors to new content and methodology that would not have been previously available. Every classroom in the school has 5 IPADs (with some classrooms having up to 12!) for students to use in their learning. Additionally, each classroom is equipped with an interactive projector and/ or SmartBoard, laptop computer, and Redcat voice amplification devices to support needs of all learners. Generous donations from the Reading Education Foundation have provided robots for our MakerSpace learning in our library/media center and document cameras for use across classrooms. Additional resources include a flexible iPad cart, and 3 mobile laptop carts for use within the classroom settings. All students are enrolled in an online individualized instructional program called MobyMax to supplement and enhance the independent practice across curriculum areas. Our staff also have access to online resources and tools ( including DiscoveryEducation, Learning A-Z, and BrainPop) to enhance their instruction thanks to the generosity of our PTO.
Safety, Healthy, and Wellness Barrows, along with all schools in the Reading district, continued to emphasize the safety on daily activities. Barrows continues to train staff to implement the A.L.i.C.E. enhanced safety procedures and continues to conduct safety drills to ensure consistency of safety protocols. Additional work on safety includes evaluation and enhancement of the security of the building facilities, student, parent, and staff training about anti-bullying policies and prevention, and more.
The Barrows Wellness, Allergy, Safety, and Health( W.A.S. H) committee meets monthly to discuss important themes and plan various communication and tasks in the areas of safety ad wellness. During the 2017 school year our WASH committee hosted our second annual all- school field day with great community involvement. The WASH committee has also invested in resources for parents to talk with their students about health topics and communicates important 130 themes through our weekly newsletter. The WASH committee has also worked to develop a pilot Snack Cart to explore the potential of increasing nutritional access to healthy snacks for students.
Community Outreach and Student Enrichment Barrows continues to keep Community Outreach as an opportunity for our all children. As in the past years, our young students are learning to be future leaders through the Student Council. The advisors; Heather Murphy, Sarah Lentz, and Pam Boston guide students in grades 3- 5 in many outreach projects including food drives, coat collections, and more. As leaders the members work with the younger grades to present information about upcoming events. Our student council have held highly successful food drives to support our local food bank, and many of our local student groups ( scouts, etc.) have held collections in support of local community agencies. In the fall of 2017 our school community adopted a school in Houston impacted by the Hurricane and raised close to $2, 000 for their school ( with the support of Parker Middle School!) Our wider school community donated hundreds of pounds of candy to our troops and veterans through 51h Operation Gratitude and Andrew Herlihy has organized grade Safety Stars to support teachers and students during morning drop off, afternoon dismissal, and supporting teachers in their classrooms.
Barrows all- school assemblies have been a great way to strengthen the feelings of community for our K-5 family. Assemblies have included a focus on our Barrows' Beliefs, a winter all- school sing along, and a recognition of veterans from Barrows families for Veterans Day. The Barrows PTO continues to provide enrichment opportunities through speakers, presentations, and field trips to all grades in the school. June 2017 brought local illustrator Scott Magoon to share his work with students grades K-5.
The Reading Education Foundation funded dyslexia friendly book collection for our libraries as well as robots for our library/media spaces. Additionally, the Altbush Family donated financial support to fund the purchase new text for our library collections. We continue to appreciate the wonderful support from our community members.
Parent Involvement, The Barrows PTO and Barrows parents and families continue to be a strong support system for the Barrows community. Their generous support of both time and money has been mentioned above. The Barrows PTO supports annual events including the Back to School Picnic, Halloween Monster Mash, Winter Craft Fair, Beautification Day, Fun Run, Ice Cream Social, and Book Fairs. These events create opportunities for the Barrows Community to celebrate together.
In conclusion, Barrows continues to be an enriching and vibrant learning environment. We are appreciative to have the opportunity to teach the children of Reading. We hope to instill the values that are important to the community, create a love of learning, and prepare our students to meet the challenges of the world that awaits them.
131 Birch Meadow Elementary School Principal Julia Hendrix Annual Report 2017
Birch Meadow Elementary School is focused on educating, challenging and encouraging all stridents while serving their unique academic, physical, social and emotional needs. Staff and stridents model themselves after our core values of being present, safe, kind, responsible and respectful.
School Mission Statement Birch Meadow strives to address the needs of the whole child by providing a positive, safe, caring and inclusive learning environment built on respect. As a community, we believe that all children have the potential to develop the skills to be lifelong learners and well equipped for our 21st century global society.
School Improvement Plan Goals, 2017- 2018
Student Learning Goal 80% of students who are two or more levels below the Month Two Fountas & Pinnell benchmark in October will be at the Month Seven benchmark by June 2017. ( For kindergarten this will begin in January 2017, with first benchmarking).
Professional Practice Goal We will develop systems to implement intervention blocks focusing on: use of data and data team process and common planning time to plan instruction assignment of staff based on need for intervention blocks.
Operations Goal We will refine safety routines and procedures to support an orderly and safe school.
New Staff
In fall, 2017, Birch Meadow School welcomed one new professional level staff member— Caitilyn Coye, Grade 5 General Education teacher.
In addition, we welcomed one new regular education para-educator: Christian Strand and five new special education para-educators: Mrs. Arlene Poeck, Mrs. Sharon DiFiore, Mrs. Elizabeth Littlehale, and Mrs. Sulekha Rao.
Family and Community Partnerships
The Birch Meadow community came together in April at Together for Tewksbury, a celebration of the life and contributions of Jolene Tewskbury, a teacher who passed away in 2016. At this 5K nun/ walk and raffle, fiends were raised to begin the Jolene Tewksbury
132 Memorial Scholarship which will be awarded yearly to a Birch Meadow alum who is graduating from Reading Memorial High School.
The School Site Council meets once a month engaging parents and staff in ongoing discussions that support and enhance student learning.
Our Wellness, Allergy, Safety and Health (WASH) committee consisting of teachers and parents continues to meet regularly to commit to the safety of all students. WASH organized and facilitated the health and wellness fair and engaged all students on topics including nutrition, mindfulness and exercise. They also coordinated the monthly walk to school days.
PTO: We have a vibrant PTO that supports our school community in a variety of ways. The PTO raises money to support field trips, enrichment programs, author days, classroom materials, MCAS breakfasts, and much more. The Spooky Fun Fair, Monster Mash, Ice Cream Social and Inter-Cultural Pot Luck evening are some of the traditions that they help to keep alive. The annual intercultural pot luck evening celebrated diversity through music, dance, food and activities.
PTO Enrichment Events: The PTO financially and organizationally supports cultural and academic enrichment at Birch Meadow. This year they have funded in school enrichment and field trips, including, but not limited to the following:
o Kindergarten: Curious Creatures visit to Birch Meadow
lst o Grade: Science Discovery Museum field trip 2nd 0 Grade: Field Trip to Concord Museum 3rd 0 Grade: Presentation on Pollination and Bees
4d' 0 Grade; Presentation on Wind Energy 5d' 0 Grade: Field trip to the Boston Symphony Orchestra
Read Across America: Each year Birch Meadow celebrates Read Across America in a new and special way. The emphasis is always on books and reading with, of course, lots of fun built in. A theme-based reading challenge is introduced to the students at an assembly at the beginning of the month long program with the intent of motivating students to increase their reading. Over 95% of our students participated and celebrated their success with memorable surprises and events at the closing assembly.
Understanding Disabilities continued its presentations to all grade levels with presentations on a wide range of disabilities by guest speakers.
Reading Food Pantry Donation: Each year around the holidays, the staff collect donations to the Reading Food Pantry. This year the staff donated a total of$ 350 to support this organization' s efforts.
133 Teaching and Learning
Three teachers attended the Lesley Summer Literacy Institute in July 2017, and studied the Fountas and Pinnell Literacy Continuum. These teachers have led professional development for teachers during the Thursday faculty meetings. The teachers have studied the Literacy Continuum and planned for literacy instruction based on this work. A teacher trained grade level teams in use of Running Records to monitor student reading levels.
0 Grade level data teams meet every 6 to 7 weeks to review data, address patterns raised in the data, and plan interventions.
The School Leadership Team meets bi-weekly. This year the team has reviewed literacy data, worked on the School Improvement Plan, and planned our participation in Global School Play Day.
First and second grade teaching teams, including special educators, attended the workshop " Developing Number Understandings K-2" led by facilitators from Math Perspectives and have used that learning to implement center based math instruction in their classrooms and to further their work with the online assessment system, Assessing Math Concepts.
0 Grade 3 and Grade 5 teaching teams attended professional development on implementing Units of Study in Writer' s Workshop provided by Beth Moore and Maggie Roberts.
Kindergarten teachers attended professional development on launching Writer' s Workshop and implementing the Units of Study, led by Martha Horne.
4t' 5t' and grade students participated in an hour of code, the purpose of which is expanding access to computer science by increasing participation and understanding. Coolidge Middle school students mentored Birch students during this event.
Birch Meadow students under the direction of our PE teacher, Patrick McCracken, participated in Jump Rope for Heart, raising funds for the American Heart Association and the Jolene Tewksbury Scholarship Fund.
0 Using data, we continuously shift how we utilize our para-educators based on student needs. We are constantly changing which interventions they are using and which students they are using them with in order to best meet the needs of all of our learners.
134 Student Life
New Family Tour: This year Birch Meadow welcomed 12 new students in Grades 1 to 5. These students and their families toured the school in August before the first day and saw their classrooms.
5t' Nature' s Classroom: All grade students from Birch Meadow spent an overnight at Nature' s Classroom at Camp Cody in Freedom, New Hampshire. This year all Reading fifth graders went to the camp for the same night.
Whole School Assemblies: Each month we have whole school assemblies based on our Core
Values and current events. Students of all grade levels assist the principal throughout each assembly in leading the school through the different parts, including reading a welcoming message and singing the school song. Students present information and ideas related to the Core Values and themes of the Assembly.
5t'' Grade Buddies volunteered in kindergarten and first grade classrooms to help students and teachers at the beginning and end of each day. During the first three weeks of school, fifth graders helped kindergarten and first grade students in the lunch room each day.
135 Joshua Eaton School Principal• LisaMarie Ippolito
Mission: The Joshua Eaton Elementary School is committed to developing a community of learners that are respectful of each other, our school culture, and our learning abilities, supportive of our social, emotional and physical needs and prepared to make a positive contribution to our school and the Reading Community. The Joshua Eaton Elementary School fosters an environment that provides students with the skills required to work hard every day and achieve individual learning goals and challenges.
Joshua Eaton Elementary School is one of 5 elementary school within the Reading Public Schools. It is located in a suburban setting approximately 20 miles north of Boston.
The Joshua Eaton School was built in 1949 and named after Joshua Eaton, the only Revolutionary War soldier from Reading to lose his life in battle. When the school opened in 1949, it was selected as the best-designed elementary school house among the 38, 000 whose blueprints were submitted for national review.
The current population (2016- 17) of the Joshua Eaton School, which is grades K-5, is about 400 students. The table below demonstrates the population breakdown by grade level.
Enrollment by Grade K 1 2 3 4 5 16 - 17 District 267 337 341 304 312 369 16 - 17 Joshua 37 74 82 60 83 89 Eaton 17- 18 Joshua Eaton 59 41 72 79 62 81
Joshua Eaton Goal for 2017-2018 1. Literacy: Continue to improve student performance in English Language Arts as we move towards full adoption of the Readers and Writers Workshop model. District Strategic Objective: Literacy Focus Area: To improve literacy instruction in all subject areas across the district by providing teachers with time and training, timely supervision and coaching, evidenced based tier 2 student interventions, clear expectations, and a pacing chart. 2. Improve Communication among students, parents, staffand community, through increased communication tofocus on learning andfacilitate more effective instruction and accountability.
136 District Strategic Objective: Literacy Focus Area, Closing the Achievement Gap Focus Area, Mathematics Focus Area, Social Emotional Learning Focus Area 3. Attendance- Our goal for the 17- 18 school year is to improve student' s daily attendance as evidenced by a 10% decrease in the number of students absent for more than 10 days in a school year and to increase all student' s days in school. District Strategic Objective: Closing the Achievement Gap Focus Area: To focus our energy and effort in identifying and implementing evidenced based instructional practices and interventions which will close the achievement gap with our students, in particular, our students in the high needs group ( special education, English Language Learners, economic disadvantage).
School Advisory Council - Councils are to assist principals by reviewing the school building budget and developing the school improvement plan. School Council Members LisaMarie Ippolito, Principal and Co- Chair 4- Christine Lusk, Parent and Co- Chair Sandra Emery, Teacher Erin Gaffen, Parent 4- Susan Libby, Teacher Laura O' Neal, Community Member Jaime Quinn, Teacher Julie Ross, Parent
New Staff Phyllis Greene— 2/ 3 Bridge Teacher Pam Doyle— Learning Center Teacher Donald Cook— Grade 3 Teacher Michelle Lipkin— School Psychologist Michelle Ramacato —ParaEducator Jessica Galindo —K Para educator
17- 18 Number of Grade Teachers Level K 3 1 2 2 4 3 4 4 3 5 4
137 New Student Orientation: This event took place in August 2017. It provided an opportunity for 22 incoming students and their families to visit Joshua Eaton, meet their classroom teachers, meet the new principal and classmates. This is a wonderful way to build new friendships before the start of the new school year.
Back to School Night: All Joshua Eaton students and their families were welcomed back to Joshua Eaton the night before school started. Students were able to visit the school, their classrooms, and greet their friends. This event supported students not to have so many first day jitters returning to school the next day.
Curriculum and Instruction
Curriculum Night: This year' s Welcome Back/Curriculum Night was held during the second week of school for grades K-5. This night was very informative and will help to get parents and students back into the swing of school routines!
Reader' s and Writer' s Workshop: Each Reading Workshop session begins with a mini- lesson. During each mini-lesson, the teacher introduces a specific concept, also known as the teaching point. Most often, the teaching point focuses on a reading strategy or skill. The teacher will explicitly model or demonstrate the skill for the students. Students then get a chance to practice the skill or strategy on their own or with a partner. This part of the mini- lesson is called the active engagement.
Writer' s Workshop has been implemented in every grade level with a focus on providing students opportunities to experience the various genres including narrative, informational, opinion and persuasive. This model places an emphasis on the process of writing from planning and organizing, to drafting, revising and editing, and finally to publishing.
Instructional Technology: is a key component to each child' s educational experience through the use of iPads and laptops, weekly sessions in the computer lab, use of databases for research, and completion of grade- level research projects using a variety of media. Students also have access to Lexia, BrainPop and Raz- Kids, to name a few, to provide student 21" Century skills.
Monthly Assemblies: Each month a different grade level hosted an all school assembly discussing and teaching all they have learned about our core values; Practice Compassion, Act Responsibly, Work Towards Success, Show Respect
Mystery Readers: Joshua Eaton welcomed many community and school members as Mystery Readers. The students were so excited to welcome Dr. Doherty, Fire Chief Burns, School Committee Members Chairperson Robinson and Ms. Webb.
138 Conferences: Parent/Teacher Conference Day was held on in November.
Understanding Disabilities: The Understanding Disabilities program continued this year with volunteers working with students in Grades 1- 5 to help children see beyond people' s disabilities and focus on the ways that we are all the same inside. Through the use of books, videos, and hands on activities, the program helps children gain a greater understanding of what it might be like to do things in a different way. The program stresses all that people with disabilities can do and promotes a culture of inclusion and acceptance. Topics covered in the program: Physical
Disabilities, Hard of HearingNisual Impairments, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Developmental Disabilities, Learning Disabilities, Emotional and Behavioral Disorders and Food Allergies.
Safety Drills: In the fall, we held our annual lockdown drill and shelter in place drill. These drills help to prepare staff and students for an emergency in the building that would require us to lock down" the building by securing all classrooms and offices.
Building Leadership Team LisaMarie Ippolito, Principal Allison Byrnes Sandy Emery Michelle Lipkin Liz McGevna* Alison Ockerbloom* Jaime Quinn
District Data Team, as well
Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS)— As part of the District and 16- 17 Joshua Eaton School Improvement Plan, the school implemented a Multi-Tiered System of Support framework. A team of 11 hardworking people ( 9 Teachers, 1 Paraeducator and 1 Parent) developed and shared with the entire staff expected lessons, protocols for behaviors and school- wide assemblies to build a sense of continuity and supports for positive student outcomes for behavior. This supported the goal of creating a safe, healthy community with clear goals and expectations at Joshua Eaton. This work will continue to grow as we journey into the 2017- 2018 school year.
Professional Development: As a district, the area of focus for professional development will be the Writer' s Workshop Model, delving into the Science standards and curriculum supports. Through district opportunities, K-5 teachers will participate in professional development training to support the implementation of the Lucy Calkin Writer' s Workshop model tied to the Massachusetts Literacy Standards.
139 Student Council: Co- Leaders: Allison Byrnes and Adam Derosier
Thanksgiving Food Drive The Joshua Eaton family once again supported the Reading Food Pantry as part of our annual Thanksgiving Assembly. The Student Council coordinated the food drive and assembly this year, and dozens of boxes of food and necessities were again donated to the Reading Food Pantry. Thanks to all the staff and students who donated to the food drive and supported so many, especially for giving so many people something to be thankful for during the holiday season.
Safeties: Grade 5 students demonstrate their leadership skills by signing up to do various jobs around Joshua Eaton. Examples of the jobs include sweeping the playground, hold doors, and monitor hallways on indoor days. These are our future leaders in our community.
Parent Cafe : Once a month prior to the PTO meetings, Principal Ippolito hosts parents and guardians for a Q& A session, as well as a presentation on educational topics. Some topics have included MCAS, Dr. Doherty budget presentation and F& P reading assessment overview.
PTO —Co- Chairs Katrina Madden and Colleen Torrell
The Joshua Eaton PTO is an integral extension of our school community. They support the many enrichment activities and field trips that the Joshua Eaton students attend. The PTO also supports fun family events such as the Kindergarten Meet and Greet, Ice Cream Social, Halloween Howl and many other events. The building staff and PTO work together to create student involved fundraising events as well. The famous Jaguar Tracks, the weekly newsletter to families, are also supported by this wonderful and very active group of parents!
Book Fair: Our annual Book Fair was held in September. This is an event that is loved by the entire Joshua Eaton Community as it promotes reading and fosters a love of literature.
Enrichment Opportunities Offered Within the School Day Each year, students participate in various curriculum- based enrichment opportunities offered outside of the classroom during the school day.
Nature' s Classroom" at Camp Cody 5t' 5t' Approximately 80 Joshua Eaton graders participated in a district grade Nature' s Classroom program at Camp Cody in New Hampshire. Special thanks to all the staff and parent chaperones who helped make this such a wonderful experience for all the students.
140 J.W. Killam Elementary School A T.R.R.F.C. C. Place to Be! Reading Public Schools 2017 Annual Report Principal Sarah A. Leveque
Introduction The staff members of the J.W. Killam School are pleased to highlight some of our many accomplishments from 2017. Each and every day, teachers enter the building ready to greet our children, prepared to stretch their thinking, and support each other in the process. A teacher wears many different hats, and the requirements of the work continue to evolve, and yet, our teachers all welcomed the new year with a positive mindset and a commitment to grow. Similarly, the role of families in schools feels more critical than ever and it is clear that Killam is a neighborhood school that supports all children who come to learn, explore their surroundings, and grow intellectually. Our commitment to the Reading children is strong and concentrated on what our students need: a sense of belonging in an environment that focuses on teaching, learning, and building positive relationships in a safe environment.
Mission Statement The J.W. Killam Elementary School is T.R.R.F.C.C. place where everyone belongs, where everyone achieves at their personal best, and where everyone' s accomplishments are celebrated! Our staff will work collaboratively to improve student learning and achievements so that every child will leave the J.W. Killam Elementary School having met or exceeding district and state standards.
Killam' s Core Values Trustworthy Respectful Responsible Fair Caring Citizens
School Goal l: Focus on Writer' s Workshop During the 2017- 2018 school year, there will be 100% implementation of the Lucy Calkins Writer' s Workshop Units of Study in K-5 classrooms. We will identify and develop strategies to ensure that all students are accessing core instruction and grade- level expectations, as will be measured in the K-2 pre and post assessment data in the area of development( craft and elaboration) and improvements in the Grades 3- 5 state assessment writing portions of MCAS. For the 2017- 18 school year, we will focus on the implementation of the Writers Workshop Units of Study across all grade levels. These strategies will better support struggling learners, more effectively meet the needs of diverse learners, and better challenge students at all levels.
During the 2017- 2018 school year, the J.W. Killam Elementary School will successfully implement systematic formative and summative academic and social- emotional assessments to support MTSS across all Tier 1 settings. Tier I academic work will focus on implementing the Writers Workshop Units of Study with fidelity. Tier I behavioral supports will include increasing our awareness of our core value character curriculum in all classrooms as well as Tier II 141 supports, such as Check In Check Out and Mentoring that will support students who need additional learning and connectedness opportunities. Our school' s leadership team will promote universal supports for our students that address the school needs as evidenced in the SWIS data, 2015- 16 PARCC data, 2016- 17 MCAS data, and benchmark data. Our school culture and climate will improve through professional development and focused grade- level data team work that targets universal supports and instructional minutes. We will measure the effectiveness of our implementation by using the Tiered Fidelity Instrument.
School Goal 2: Focus on General Education Intervention Times We will make data- informed decisions that increase differentiated lessons during intervention blocks a and which are used to determine general education tutor support in the areas of mathematics and literacy. Intervention blocks will meet at least 1 time a week and progress will be measured through direct teacher observations during the intervention blocks.
During the 2017- 2018 school year, the J.W. Killam Elementary School will successfully create a cyclic and systemic approach to collecting, analyzing, and responding to student work/assessment. Using the MA frameworks and the Reading Public Schools mathematics and literacy curriculum documents, we will use the data to inform both our Tier I and Tier II academic instruction. The data will be used to plan for grade level intervention blocks and to determine general education tutor support. Staff and tutors will be trained in Tier II interventions. Additionally, this work will drive the creation of formative and summative assessments that promote teacher and student understanding. The implications for robust learning and engagement is supported by the 2015- 16 PARCC data, the 2016- 17 MCAS data, benchmark data, and grade- level formative assessments. Our school culture and climate will improve through professional development, focused grade- level data team work, collaborative proposal agendas, and PLC discussions. We will measure the effectiveness of our implementation by using the district- aligned educator supervision and evaluation power standards rubrics.
Family and Community Partnerships
The Killam School Council holds monthly meetings engaging parents and staff in ongoing discussions that support and enhance student learning. The School Council is working hard to examine and support the school improvement plan and the guidelines of the school. The focus areas this year are as follows: MCAS Results, Attendance Issues, Homework Guidelines, Mindfulness, and Community Assets to Support Schools and Families.
The Killam PTO continued to fund enrichment programs for Grades K-5 both with curriculum related field trips and in- house enrichment programs. All fifth grade students participated in the overnight enrichment field trip at Nature' s Classroom in Freedom, NH as part of their science studies.
Killam parents and community members supported the Week of Code at Killam by engaging students in an introduction to computer science. This is a global movement that reaches tens of millions of kids. 142 The Reading Education Foundation grants funded materials for our library such as an All Access Collection" to support students who are dyslexic and trade books to support our Open Circle Social-Emotional Curriculum. They also supported our Tier II Mentor program and curriculum training for the Leveled Literacy Intervention Program.
Reading Rotary continues to donate Thesauruses to our Grade 3 students, backpacks with books for our Kindergarten students, and trees to our Grade 5 students for Arbor Day.
The Wellness, Allergy, Safety and Health( WASH) Committee consisting of teachers and parents continues to meet regularly to commit to the safety of all students. The Committee will support the focus areas of the School Council.
Ms. Leveque started the " Principal College" evenings in the winter of 2017, welcoming families to discover what students are engaged in learning at the Killam school. School certainly looks and sounds different in the 21" century and it is important that we all have the opportunity to better understand the way curriculum is not only taught, but also thought about in today' s classroom. Families engage in some hands- on learning and interactive discussion, working through a variety of topics to help parents better support their learner.
Student Activities, Programs, and Support
The Killam Students Service Squad consists of fourth and fifth grade students who show the Killam TRRFCC values on a consistent basis and are asked to model the core values to the younger grades in a variety of opportunities such as supporting Kindergarten students with dismissal and setting up technology stations before school in classrooms.
In the 2017- 2018 school year, classes rotate through greeting the students with the morning announcements. Students announce birthdays, fun facts, and core value class awards each morning over the loud speakers.
The Therapeutic Support Program continues to adapt and provide a strong program that supports the social- emotional and academic needs of our students. The program welcomed Mrs. Stacie Burke as a half-time special education teacher.
As members of the District-wide Chorus, our students in Grades 3- 5 presented a spring concert for parents.
The Killam students demonstrated our TRRFCC core values by participating in Anton' s Coats for Kids Drive, donating Halloween Candy to the Troops, participating in the REF
143 Festival of Trees, and the Annual Killam Beautification Day.
Killam School PTO supported a variety of student and family friendly events, ranging from the Halloween Bash, to dine-out nights, to the Family Picnics.
To celebrate National Poetry Month in April, Killam' s second through fifth grade students learned about all different types of poetry and wrote their own poems during their Media Center classes. Their original poems were submitted to the National Schools Poetry Project sponsored by the Young American Poetry Digest. The National Schools Poetry Project has been reviewing and selecting young authors' poems for publication for the last twenty-three years. Their reviewers selected 109 of our Killam students' poems to be published in the 2017 Young American Poetry Digest. Killam School was awarded a $ 100 prize for being one of the top 10 schools from across the Nation with the largest number of published student authors. Our school name will be on the Young American Poetry Digest website listing our accomplishment as a top 10 contributing school.
In connection with Susan Hood' s author visit to the Reading Public Library, Killam' s fourth and fifth graders participated in an at home design challenge that was inspired by the true story Ada' s Violin: The Story of the Recycled Orchestra ofParaguay by Susan Hood and the documentary featured on 60 Minutes called Landfill Harmonic. At home design challenges are part of the Killam Media Center's S. T.E.A.M. related curriculum that utilizes Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math. Just like the children featured in Hood' s book, Killam' s students needed to create working musical instruments using only recycled materials. Fourth grader Justin Canada' s handmade xylophone won first place. He made this instrument by using different types of wood that were left over from construction on an addition of his family's home. Justin brought his handmade xylophone to the author visit at the Reading Public Library and showed author Susan Hood how to play it.
Killam continues with our monthly all school meetings to promote our TRRFCC behavior expectations.
The Building Leadership Team, comprised of teachers, specialists, and administration, continued its work on implementing a tiered system of support to meet the social, emotional, behavioral and academic needs of students. The team has developed a school- wide system for student recognition focused on the core values, re-teaching and reflection, and a systematic approach to Office Discipline Referrals ( ODRs). The 2017 school year marked the beginning of a Tier I team, focusing on academics and a Tier II team, focusing on the social- emotional needs of our students. The goal of these teams is to continue to research and implement the best practices to support all students in academics and behavior.
144 Teaching and Learning
The Killam School welcomed Administrative Assistant Jo- Ann Moriarty, Kindergarten teacher Erica Boran, Fourth Grade teacher Kameka Rees, Therapeutic Support program teacher Stacie Burke, Learning Center teacher Elizabeth Kelly, tutor Brooke Ryan, and cafeteria staff members Muriel Hall and Rebecca Griffin to the 2017- 2018 school year.
Our TRRFCC ( Trustworthiness, Respect, Responsibility, Fairness, Caring, and Citizenship) Character Program continues to be strong in the Killam community. School- wide expectations were developed and shared with the entire community based on the Multi-Tiered Systems of Support( MTSS) model.
Killam staff continues to recognize individual students who demonstrate our TRRFCC core values. A ticket system was established as part of our MTSS goals to acknowledge students for exemplary behaviors related to the Pillars of Character core values. Classes are also recognized for collaboratively demonstrating these values and are presented with Golden Awards".
Teachers from Killam attended a variety of professional development opportunities provided both by the district and by other organizations. These include PD in the area of Writing, English Language Arts, Math, Science, Social Thinking, Open Circle, Science, Behavior Management, Health and Wellness, Restorative Justice, and the Fine Arts.
Writers' Workshop has been fully implemented with a focus on providing students opportunities to experience the various genres including narrative, informational, opinion and persuasive. This model places an emphasis on the process of writing from planning and organizing, to drafting, revising and editing, and finally to publishing.
The use of technology continuously increases with the addition of new laptops in the media center and mini labs. The use of iPads were used to enhance student learning in 21" Century skills. Students have access to a variety of integrated instructional support programs such as Lexia, Raz Kids, Think Central, and Typing Pal.
Areas of our school underwent improvements. The wireless access points are in the final phase of being updated, electrical work was completed, and new carpets and tiles were installed in classrooms.
145 Wood End Elementary School Annual Report for 2017 Joanne King, Principal
Wood End Elementary School is pleased to highlight the many accomplishments for 2017. With a continued focus on student achievement, we collaborate with our families to instill our core values, nurturing our students to be respectful, responsible, honest, engaged, and safe. We are fortunate to have a welcoming and caring family community which takes an active role in supporting our mission to create a safe and supportive learning environmentfor all students.
Family & Community Partnerships
Our annual Kindergarten Orientation provided an opportunity for 41 incoming students and their families to visit Wood End in June, and meet their classroom teachers and classmates. This is a wonderful way to build new friendships before the summer vacation and start of the new school year.
New and returning families attended the annual Family Field Night in September, taking part in a variety of games and activities on the playground and enjoying pizza with friends and neighbors. This is a great way to catch up with friends and gear up for the new school year.
Our Student Council members hosted an all- school celebration to honor and recognize our Veterans. Students and staff participated in a" Hats Off to Vets" fundraiser, donating $ 1 to wear a hat to school for the day. All proceeds were donated to the Home Base Program to provide support to our soldiers and their families
4t' 5t' Our and Grade Student Council members, led by Miss Norcross, organized, planned and led a variety of community-based programs including collecting more than 400 coats for the annual Anton' s Coat Drive, canned goods for the Reading Food Pantry, and fundraisers to support the Home Base Program and the American Heart Association.
The annual Grandparents' Day was a huge success as many of our Wood End grandparents took part in the Read Across America activities and shared their favorite stories with our students. This is one of Wood End' s most treasured traditions!
The School Council focused on new policies for the caf6 to better support the wellness, allergy, safety and health issues related to students and staff. In addition, committee members researched homework practices in elementary schools across the state and country to realign expectations for students. Parent feedback was solicited and new guidelines were established for students in Grades 1- 5.
The Wood End PTO is a very active and supportive group of parents who provide a tremendous amount of funding to enhance the learning experiences for all students. They funded more than 14, 000 in enrichment programs and field trips for every grade level. Some of the many activities sponsored by the PTO include: Teacher professional development, Family Field Night, 146 Staff Appreciation, Wood End Gardens & Grounds, Young Author' s Day, annual book fairs, and School Spirit Wear.
Wood End staff and families enjoyed the annual Trivia Night sponsored by our PTO. This event raised more than $ 17, 000 for our school community with most of the funding used for the outdoor classroom, enrichment programs, professional development for staff, alternative classroom seating, books for our library, and teacher reimbursements. Construction was completed on the outdoor classroom behind our library media center. The space now contains a concrete stamped patio, wooden benches, perennial gardens, and crates filled with class supplies for students and teachers to use outside. This project was funded by our very generous PTO, with additional support provided by Reading DPW, who poured concrete slabs, regraded and seeded the area.
Student Activities, Programs & Support
The Wood End PTO provided many exciting enrichment programs for our students including: Kindergarten Programs: Fire Safety House, Drumlin Farms, and Rhythm Kids African Drummers Grade 1: The Discovery Museum' s Sound Workshop, Penguins from the New England Aquarium, and Fire Safety House Grade 2: Magic of Maps, The Discovery Museum' s Physical Changes of Matter Workshop, and field trip to Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary Grade 3: Fieldtrips to Parker Tavern and the Boston Tea Party Grade 4: Fieldtrips to the Boston Symphony Orchestra and the Salem Witch Museum, and author visit and writers workshop with author David Kelly. Grade 5: Fieldtrip to the Boston Symphony and author visit and writers workshop with John Steven Gurney; Overnight field trip to Camp Bournedale
The Leadership Team, comprised of teachers, specialists, and administration, continued its work on implementing a tiered system of support to meet the social, emotional, behavioral and academic needs of students. In its fourth year of implementation, the team has developed a school-wide system for student recognition focused on the core values, a systemic approach to track office discipline referrals, and implementation of Tier 2 interventions including check- in/check- out( CICO) and a mentoring program. This allows us to better meet the individual needs of students requiring more targeted interventions.
Student Council members with the support of grade- level teacher leaders, plan and present monthly all-school meetings focused on our core values. Each month, a different grade level hosts a 30- minute presentation or activity to promote our values and teach expected behaviors.
Once again, Wood End students participated in the annual Special Olympics sending several athletes to compete in various track and field events. The support of teachers, staff, students and families is always inspiring. Our Olympic athletes continue to make us proud!
Health & Wellness teacher Chris Bauer led our most successful " Jump Rope for Heart" fundraiser collecting over $ 10, 000 for the American Heart Association! 147 Two very dedicated and energetic parents, Kelly Mahoney & Lisa Zucchero, continued to lead our morning BOKS program for students. This is our 4th year providing this amazing physical fitness program for students in grades K-5. Students attend the program two days a week from 7: 30- 8: 10 AM.
Teaching and Learning
All classroom teachers, specialists and special education teachers have been trained in Open Circle and are meeting with students each week to teach the skills needed to foster healthy social and emotional relationships while building a caring community. We have an all-school lesson time for Open Circle, every Wednesday 8: 30- 9: 00 when the entire school community takes part in classroom lessons.
5t' Our grade students attended the third annual overnight trip to Camp Bournedale in Plymouth, MA taking part in various hands on activities and outdoor educational opportunities focused on the environment, teamwork, and collaboration.
Fifth grade students took advantage of a morning " coding club" hosted by Mrs. Commito building their skills in math, technology, team work, and problem- solving. In addition, these students used a variety of apps to program and control robots that were purchased through a grant from REF.
Specialists Lisa Norcross ( Library Media), Melissa Steiger ( Music), Christina Erb ( Art), and Chris Bauer (PE) choreographed and created Wood End' s fifth music video, " Eye of the Reader" performed to the tune of" Eye of the Tiger" by Survivor) to promote our annual read-a-thon, which runs in March. This community-wide event is extremely successful thanks to the support of our amazing Wood End parents and families.
The Reading Educational Foundation awarded Wood End a grant to provide alternative seating including standing desks and wobble stools in all classrooms. Research has demonstrated that flexible seating promotes student success by decreasing inattentiveness and increasing student engagement.
Teachers participated in building-based and district-wide professional learning communities to share best practices, review student work, and create common assessments in all content areas. This professional collaboration is designed to enhance teaching and promote alignment to the standards while improving instructional practices.
Wood End staff and administration took part in a variety of professional development opportunities, workshops and conferences including Positive Behavioral Supports for Students New England Conference, Writers Workshop, Readers Workshop, Down Syndrome Conference, and Open Circle.
The school-wide schedule continues to provide one- hour uninterrupted blocks for reading, writing and math in all grade levels, K-5 to improve time on learning and provide the necessary 148 supports to meet the needs of all students. Math and literacy tutors provide small group support in all grade levels, and the Reading Specialist works with each grade level during their reading time to provide additional support to students identified below grade level expectations.
Writers Workshop training and implementation continues in each grade level with a focus on providing students opportunities to experience the various genres of writing including narrative, information, and opinion/persuasive in K-3 as well as literary essay in grades 4- 5. This model places an emphasis on the process of writing from planning and organizing, to drafting, revising and editing, and finally to publishing rather than the product of writing.
149 Last Name First Name Location Description Job Class Description
Leave of Absence
Arthur Maria Parker Middle School Special Education Para
Boran Erica RISE Preschool Preschool Teacher Bowen Anne Birch Meadow Elementary School Special Education Program Para Brear-Farrell Allison Pupil Services Team Chair Brett Nicole Joshua Eaton Elementary School School Psychologist Bruno Jessica Killam Elementary School Elementary Teacher Director of Community Calandrella Sandra Central Office Education
Camenker Joyce RISE Preschool Preschool Teacher
Carter Caitlin Parker Middle School Special Education Teacher Conner Heather Reading Memorial High School High School Teacher Cook Donald Joshua Eaton Elementary School Grade 3 Teacher Cornetta Jessica Joshua Eaton Elementary School Elementary Teacher Correa Maura Reading Memorial High School High School Teacher Currier Alison Killam Elementary School Reading Specialist Dalby Elizabeth Reading Memorial High School Biology Teacher Decoff Jennifer Reading Memorial High School Math Teacher Dougherty Jessica Parker Middle School Middle School Teacher Dudley Paul Reading Memorial High School Custodian Duffy Jessica Birch Meadow Elementary School Special Education Teacher Duval Samantha Coolidge Middle School Special Education Para Ellis Jessica Joshua Eaton Elementary School Elementary Teacher Emmet-Conrad Jennifer Birch Meadow Elementary School Elementary Teacher Fiorello Katherine Reading Memorial High School High School Teacher Fisher Vanessa Reading Memorial High School Special Education Program Para Garey Kathleen Birch Meadow Elementary School Regular Education Tutor Gauthier Stephanie Wood End Elementary School Special Education Program Para Gilman Maureen Killam Elementary School Elementary Teacher Goodwin John Birch Meadow Elementary School Custodian Graham Paula Reading Memorial High School Wellness Teacher Granoth Bethany Barrows Elementary School Kindergarten Teacher Guarciariello Roberta Barrows Elementary School Regular Education Para Harrington Aynsley Wood End Elementary School Elementary Teacher Hill Lori Barrows Elementary School Media Specialist Jervinis Anna Birch Meadow Elementary School School Psychologist Keenan William Barrows Elementary School Custodian
150 Kiser Megan Parker Middle School English Teacher Leiper Bristol Reading Memorial High School High School Teacher Lord Rebecca Parker Middle School Special Education Teacher
Luskin Lauren Parker Middle School Middle School Teacher Mahoney Danja Reading Memorial High School Foreign Language Teacher Mahoney Mark Parker Middle School Custodian Mauriello Maryellen Barrows Elementary School Elementary Teacher McGevna Elizabeth Joshua Eaton Elementary School Elementary Teacher McGrath Mary Barrows Elementary School Elementary Teacher McIntire Timothy Reading Memorial High School Science Teacher Miller Lizabeth Pupil Services Team Chair
Mitrano Julianne Parker Middle School Middle School Teacher
Moroso Taylor Parker Middle School English Teacher Mulvey Barbara Wood End Elementary School Regular Education Para Murphy Heather Barrows Elementary School Elementary Teacher Pegoraro Christen Killam Elementary School Elementary Teacher Peraner Catherine Wood End Elementary School Special Education Para Poirier Courtney Wood End Elementary School Elementary Teacher Ricci Carla Parker Middle School School Psychologist Santilli Kathleen Reading Public Schools Technology Specialist Scribner Jennifer Birch Meadow Elementary School Elementary Teacher Simon Maria Birch Meadow Elementary School Elementary Teacher Stevens Ellen Barrows Elementary School Elementary Teacher Stewart-Cunningham Jane Reading Memorial High School High School Teacher Billing Specialist/Staff Tringale Vivian Central Office Accountant Tucker Danielle Birch Meadow Elementary School Elementary Teacher Underwood Christine Birch Meadow Elementary School Special Education Para Webster Jennifer Parker Middle School Middle School Teacher Wiegel Marissa Reading Memorial High School Speech Language Pathologist Zanni Marianna Coolidge Middle School Secretary Zaya Thomas Reading Memorial High School Assistant Principal New Hires
Abad Ursula Coolidge Middle School Spanish Teacher Abelson Lori Wood End Elementary School Reading Specialist Long Term Substitute Foreign Amaral Daniel Reading Memorial High School Language Teacher Amaral Daniel Joshua Eaton Elementary School Extended Day PM Teacher Benger Jaime Reading Memorial High School Special Education Teacher 151 Bertrand Catherine Reading Memorial High School Non-Musical Director Blanchette Kyle Reading Memorial High School Boys Freshman Lacrosse Coach Bonfanti Nicholas Birch Meadow Elementary School Custodian Boudette Chloe Birch Meadow Elementary School Extended Day Assistant Teacher Therapeutic Support Program Burke Stacie Killam Elementary School Special Education Teacher Long Term Substitute English Butler Jillian Reading Memorial High School Teacher Special Education Compass By Suzanne Birch Meadow Elementary School Program Para Cassese Anthony Reading Memorial High School Freshman Coaching Assistant Chang Joseph Reading Memorial High School Freshman Softball Coach Long Term Substitute Grade 1 Cheverie Janelle Killam Elementary School Teacher Cook Donald Joshua Eaton Elementary School Grade 3 Teacher Coye Caitilyn Birch Meadow Elementary School Grade 5 Teacher ( One- Year) Cullen Nancy Wood End Elementary School Extended Day 1: 1 Support Deyermond Andrea Coolidge Middle School Regular Education Tutor Special Education Compass DiFiore Sharon Birch Meadow Elementary School Program Para Special Education Learning Dittman Randy Barrows Elementary School Center Teacher Long Term Substitute Chemistry Donnell Michael Reading Memorial High School Teacher Donofrio Christine RISE Preschool Extended Day PM Teacher Special Education Learning Doyle Pamela Joshua Eaton Elementary School Center Teacher Special Education Learning Duffy Joan Barrows Elementary School Center Teacher Special Education Life Skills Farley Emma Reading Memorial High School Teacher Long Term Substitute Physics Finberg Sharon Reading Memorial High School Teacher Fisher Vanessa Reading Memorial High School Special Education Para( LLD) Long Term Substitute Grade 6 Fitzgerald Alba Parker Middle School ELA Teacher Forbes Melissa Reading Memorial High School Team Chair Ford Deborah Reading Memorial High School Special Education Program Para French Kristen Pupil Services Home/ Hospital Tutor Therapeutic Support Program Galindo Jessica Killam Elementary School Para Gelineau Amy Coolidge Middle School French Teacher
152 Special Education Preschool Girouard Gina RISE Preschool Program Para Goodwin Kathryn Killam Elementary School Extended Day AM Teacher Special Education Learning Greenbaum Jessica Reading Memorial High School Center Para Special Education Language Greene Phyllis Joshua Eaton Elementary School Based Teacher for Reading Griffin Rebecca Food Services Cafe Worker
Griffin- Stone Maureen Food Services Cafe Worker Long Term Substitute Latin Harrison Frederick Reading Memorial High School Teacher Herman Rachel Coolidge Middle School School Psychologist Hildreth Sarah Killam Elementary School Extended Day Substitute Hingston Alexa Reading Memorial High School Girls Head Hockey Coach Holland Patrick RISE Preschool Extended Day PM Teacher Ippolito LisaMarie Joshua Eaton Elementary School Principal Iwanuk Jillian Wood End Elementary School Elementary Teacher Long Term Substitute Guidance Jacovides Melina Reading Memorial High School Counselor/ Social Worker Janger Meaghan Reading Memorial High School Spanish Teacher Jobst Lisa Parker Middle School French/ Spanish Teacher Johnson Lisa Reading Memorial High School Speech Language Pathologist Kalogeris Alexandra Barrows Elementary School Regular Education Para Karow Brienne Coolidge Middle School Assistant Principal Long Term Substitute Kaur Rupinderpal Reading Memorial High School Biology/Anatomy Teacher Special Education Learning Kelly Elizabeth Killam Elementary School Center Teacher Keogh Keri-Lyn Barrows Elementary School Extended Day PM Teacher Kumar Nirmal Killam Elementary School First Lego League Coach Special Education Learning Kurtz Brittany Joshua Eaton Elementary School Center Teacher Girls Outdoor Assistant Track Lane Timothy Reading Memorial High School Coach Lapiana Nicole Killam Elementary School Regular Education Para Leblanc Hannah Reading Memorial High School Girls Assistant Soccer Coach Lipkin Michelle Joshua Eaton Elementary School School Psychologist( One Year) Special Education Compass Littlehale Elizabeth Birch Meadow Elementary School Program Para Long Term Substitute Physics Logsdon Philip Reading Memorial High School Teacher
153 Long Term Sub Learning Center MacDonough Megan Birch Meadow Elementary School Para Magazzu John Joshua Eaton Elementary School Physical Education Teacher Masse Gabriella Wood End Elementary School Special Education Teacher Mazzarella Carmine Coolidge Middle School First Lego League Coach
McGrath Ann Marie RISE Preschool Preschool Teacher
McIver Mollie Coolidge Middle School Grade 6 Science Teacher McLaughlin Sandra Barrows Elementary School Regular Education Para Mennell Amanda Barrows Elementary School Regular Education Tutor Long-Term Substitute Spanish Meredith Rachelle Coolidge Middle School Teacher Milton Isaac Killam Elementary School First Lego League Coach Long Term Substitute Guidance Moretti Cara Reading Memorial High School Counselor/ Social Worker Moriarty Jo- Ann Killam Elementary School Secretary Long Term Substitute Grade 3 Murphy Jennifer Killam Elementary School Teacher Pancic Alexander Reading Memorial High School Chemistry Teacher Long Term Substitute Guidance Pindara Samantha Reading Memorial High School Counselor Pippy Joy Joshua Eaton Elementary School Regular Education Para Long Term Substitute Grade 6 Plona Leeann Parker Middle School ELA Teacher Poeck Arlene Birch Meadow Elementary School Special Education Program Para Special Education Learning Racamato Michelle Joshua Eaton Elementary School Center Para Reardon Gary Reading Memorial High School Math Teacher Rees Kameka Killam Elementary School Grade 4 Teacher Repetto Charlene Food Services Caf6 Worker Reynolds Alvin Reading Memorial High School Assistant Football Coach Ryan Brooke Killam Elementary School Extended Day Substitute Ryan Brooke Killam Elementary School Regular Education Tutor Sabella Lauren Reading Public Schools Behavioral Health Coach Santos Edra Food Services Cafeteria Manager Long Term Substitute Grade 7 Sfikas Maria Parker Science Shevory William Reading Memorial High School Physics Teacher Shmulsky Kathleen Parker Middle School School Nurse Shone Alanna Coolidge Middle School Special Education Teacher Smith Nathaniel Reading Memorial High School English Teacher
154 Souther Dolores Killam Elementary School Extended Day PM Teacher Strand Christian Birch Meadow Elementary School Extended Day PM Head Teacher Regular Education Kindergarten Strand Christian Birch Meadow Elementary School Para Suda John Food Services Cafe Worker Sweeney Stefanie Barrows Elementary School Grade 5 Teacher Taglilatela Catherine Birch Meadow Elementary School Special Education Teacher Taglilatela Catherine Reading Memorial High School Assistant Girls Hockey Coach Talbot Jessica Wood End Elementary School Grade 3 Teacher Tucker Michelle Killam Elementary School Extended Day 1: 1 Support Voyer Barbara Parker Middle School PE/Health Teacher
Walsh Selma Coolidge Middle School Science Teacher
Weeks Rachel Parker Middle School Middle School Teacher Long Term Substitute Grade 2 Weld Samantha Barrows Elementary School Teacher Whalen Ann Barrows Elementary School Regular Education Para Winokur Ellen Reading Memorial High School Home/ Hospital Tutor Witt Sabrina Coolidge Middle School English Teacher Wolfman Seth Reading Memorial High School Business Teacher Long Term Substitute Reading Wright Kathleen Reading Memorial High School Specialist Transfer Within District Long Term Substitute English Amaral Daniel Reading Memorial High School Teacher
Amaral Daniel Coolidge Middle School Special Education Program Para Boran Erica Killam Elementary School Kindergarten Teacher ( One Year) Bostwick Kelley RISE Preschool RISE Preschool Director Special Education Preschool Boutin Janelle RISE Preschool Teacher ( One Year)
Bryant Karen Food Services Cafe Worker Correa Maura Reading Memorial High School English Teacher Davis Diane Parker Middle School Art Teacher Dougherty Jessica Parker Middle School Grade 7 Science Teacher Long Term Substitute Special Doyle Joanna Birch Meadow Elementary School Education Program Teacher Finger Jane Pupil Services Per Diem Team Chairperson Festa Emmeline Reading Memorial High School Foreign Language Teacher Ford Kristin Coolidge Middle School Special Education Program Para Foresman Stacey Wood End Elementary School Grade 1 Teacher Frechette Lisa Wood End Elementary School Special Education Program Para
155 Frongillo Kristen Wood End Elementary School Special Education Program Para Regular Education Kindergarten Galindo Jessica Joshua Eaton Elementary School Para Special Education Connections Gibson Mackenzie Birch Meadow Elementary School Program Para Granoth Bethany Barrows Elementary School Kindergarten Teacher Hall Muriel Food Services Caf6 Worker Hopkinson Michelle Reading Memorial High School Physical Education Teacher Special Education Crossroads Horan Catherine Wood End Elementary School Program Teacher Howie Megan Reading Memorial High School Social Studies Teacher Huizenga Christian Coolidge Middle School Middle School Teacher Jacobs Lindsey Barrows Elementary School School Psychologist Joyce Erin RISE Special Education Program Para Leiper Bristol Reading Memorial High School Physics Teacher Lord Rebecca Parker Middle School Math Teacher
Lynch Memorial High School Long Term Substitute Health Molly Reading Teacher Long Term Substitute Special Mahoney Patrick Reading Memorial High School Education TSP Teacher Masotta Catino Joshua Eaton Elementary School Custodian Long Term Substitute Special Education Life Skills Program McCarron Daniel Reading Memorial High School Teacher Meunier Sarah Reading Memorial High School Guidance Counselor Special Education Learning Michel Lynda Wood End Elementary School Center Teacher Moore Martha Reading Memorial High School Science Teacher
Murzycki Tammy Birch Meadow Elementary School Grade 5 Teacher Ott-Palmisano Linda Food Services Caf6 Worker Parkin Robert Reading Memorial High School Lacrosse Coach Penna Vittoria Barrows Elementary School Grade 2 Teacher Pindara Samantha Reading Memorial High School One- Year Guidance Counselor Long Term Substitute Stanietch Ruth Barrows School Elementary Kindergarten Teacher Stewart-Cunningham Jane Reading Memorial High School High School English Teacher Math Teahcer/ Tech Integration Strout Charles Reading Memorial High School Specialist Taglilatela Catherine Reading Memorial High School Learning Center Teacher Trionfi Robin Food Services Caf6 Worker
156 Warren Laura Coolidge Middle School Reading Specialist Williams Audra Reading Memorial High School English Department Head Williams Janet Wood End Elementary School Special Education Program Para Resignations/ Reductions Abramovich Darlene Birch Meadow Elementary School Special Education Para Atkinson Lee Ann Joshua Eaton Elementary School Special Education Teacher Ayvazian Lynne Parker Middle School Special Education Program Para Benassi Josephine Wood End Elementary School Learning Center Para Brear-Farrell Allison Pupil Services Team Chair Brown Caren Reading Public School Math Coach Brown Cameron Reading Memorial High School Chemistry Teacher Director of Social Emotional Burd Sara Reading Public Schools Learning Cafferty Joumana Parker Middle School Spanish and French Teacher Cail Dina Birch Meadow Elementary School Regular Education Para Callahan Jacqueline Reading Memorial High School Health Teacher Cao Jennifer RISE Preschool Music Teacher Cogger Steve Reading Memorial High School Physics Teacher Connors Edward Joshua Eaton Elementary School Extended Day PM Teacher Crestin Leshia Wood End Elementary School Elementary Teacher D' Ambrosio Susan Joshua Eaton Elementary School Instructional Interventionist Day Kerry Joshua Eaton Elementary School Special Education Para Derman Courtney Reading Memorial High School Special Education TSP Teacher Doherty Julia Killam Elementary School Kindergarten Teacher Special Education Learning Donahue Leanne Reading Memorial High School Center Para Donato Daniel Reading Memorial High School English Teacher Doyon Amanda Coolidge Middle School Middle School French Teacher Erikson Krista Joshua Eaton Elementary School Special Education LLD Teacher Ferranti Erika Reading Memorial High School Business Teacher Fiocco Carol Parker Middle School School Nurse Long Term Substitute Grade 6 Fitzgerald Alba Parker Middle School ELA Teacher Fitzpatrick Joanne Reading Memorial High School Math Teacher Freedman Casey Reading Memorial High School Spanish Teacher Gaines Nancy Coolidge Middle School Science Teacher Galluzo- Hamilton Carol Killam Elementary School Regular Education Tutor Gauthier Stephanie Wood End Elementary School Special Education Program Para Hazard Theresa Barrows Elementary School Extended Day Assistant Teacher
157 Iwanuk Jillian Wood End Elementary School Grade 2 Teacher Jones Kathryn Barrows Elementary School Elementary Teacher Jordan Isabella Wood End Elementary School Grade 2 Teacher Kaempf Nicholas Coolidge Middle School Regular Education Tutor Kalogeris Alexandra Barrows Elementary School Regular Education Para Kaye Lauren Killam Elementary School Special Education Program Para Kirschning Kathryn Parker Middle School Grade 7 Science Teacher Kroner JulieAnne Pupil Services Team Chair Lestrade Sherilla Reading Memorial High School Special Education Program Para Looby Lisa Birch Meadow Elementary School Regular Education Tutor Lugo Ivonne Food Services Cafeteria Worker
Makrys Deborah RISE Preschool Special Education Program Para Masi Paul Reading Public Schools Science Kit Coordinator Mauriello Maryellen Barrows Elementary School Grade 2 Teacher McCarron Daniel Reading Memorial High School Freshman Football Coach English Teacher Department McVety Brian Reading Memorial High School Head Long-Term Substitute Spanish Meredith Rachelle Coolidge Middle School Teacher Messinger Eileen Reading Memorial High School Special Education Teacher Murphy Patricia Food Services Cafeteria Manager O' Connor Lisa Joshua Eaton Elementary School Regular Education Tutor Special Education Compass O' Donnell Molly Birch Meadow Elementary School Program Para Ofilos Michelle Joshua Eaton Elementary School Grade 3 Teacher
Oliveira Jennifer Coolidge Middle School Spanish Teacher Orescovich Laura Reading Memorial High School Special Education Para Pailes Theresa Wood End Elementary School Reading Specialist Pindara Samantha Reading Memorial High School Supervisor of Students Ricci Carla Parker Middle School School Psychologist
Rogers Jane Reading Memorial High School School Psychologist Roy Krysta Coolidge Middle School Special Education Teacher Sawyer Karen Reading Public Schools Technician Seibold Peter Reading Memorial High School Head Girls Ice Hockey Coach Spinosa- Haladay Mary Barrows Elementary School Special Education Teacher Sprung Eric Joshua Eaton Elementary School Principal Stella Desiree Killam Elementary School Special Education Program Para Stevens Ellen Barrows Elementary School Elementary Teacher
158 Stewart-Cunningham Jane Reading Memorial High School High School Teacher Stodden Tricia Reading Public Schools Literacy Coach Strong Keith Wood End Elementary School Custodian Director of Finance and Sybert Martha Central Office Operations Underwood Christine Birch Meadow Elementary School Special Education Para Varey Marissa Barrows Elementary School Grade 5 Teacher Walsh Bryan Parker Middle School Grades 7 and 8 Math Teacher
Wezdenko Arielle Parker Middle School School Psychologist Wicks Borany Reading Memorial High School Visual Arts Teacher Wiegel Marissa Reading Memorial High School Speech Language Pathologist Wolfman Seth Reading Memorial High School Business Teacher Special Education Learning Zrike Ellen Killam Elementary School Center Teacher Retirements Anderson Virginia Parker Middle School Regular Education Para
Buttaro Sheila Coolidge Middle School Middle School Teacher
Butts Deborah RISE Preschool Director Carroll Denise Barrows Elementary School School Psychologist Castellanos Yeri Parker Middle School Custodian
DeBenedetto Concetta Coolidge Middle School Middle School Teacher Dee Janet Reading Memorial High School Business Teacher Dellovo Deborah Killam Elementary School Elementary Teacher Doherty Kevin Joshua Eaton Elementary School Custodian Gath Virginia Birch Meadow Elementary School Special Education Para Graham Paula Reading Memorial High School Wellness Teacher Hogan Anita RISE Preschool Special Education Para Kinton Debra Joshua Eaton Elementary School Elementary Teacher O' Brien Valerie Reading Memorial High School Guidance Secretary Osterlind Priscilla Killam Elementary School Secretary Sheehan Barbara Wood End Elementary School Elementary Teacher Thomases Jeanne Reading Memorial High School High School Teacher Thurnauer Maureen Birch Meadow Elementary School Elementary Teacher
159 NORTHEAST METROPOLITAN REGIONAL VOCATIONAL SCHOOL DISTRICT
SCHOOL ADMINISTRATION
SUPERINTENDENT-DIRECTOR
David DiBarri
PRINCIPAL-DEPUTY DIRECTOR
Carla Scuzzarella
DISTRICT SCHOOL COMMITTEE
SCHOOL COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN
Deborah P. Davis - Woburn
VICE CHAIRMAN
Judith M. Dyment- North Reading
SECRETARY
Peter A. Rossetti, Jr. - Saugus
TREASURER
Larry Means - Stoneham
ASSOCIATE TREASURER
Vincent J. Carisella- Wakefield
COMMITTEE MEMBERS
Michael T. Wall - Chelsea Robert S. McCarthy - Reading
Jeanne M. Feeley - Malden Ronald J. Jannino - Revere Henry S. Hooton - Melrose Winchester Dawne H. Armitstead - Winthrop
160 NORTHEAST METROPOLITAN REGIONAL VOCATIONAL SCHOOL DISTRICT 100 Hemlock Road - Wakefield, Massachusetts 01880- 3597
ANNUAL REPORT 2017
OUTSTANDING STUDENT AWARD Joseph DeBenedictis from Wakefield a student in the Carpentry program was chosen as Northeast' s nominee at the State Awards Dinner for Outstanding Vocational Technical Students. The event is co- sponsored by the Massachusetts Association of Vocational Administrators and the Massachusetts Vocational Association.
NATIONAL TECHNICAL HONOR SOCIETY The Northeast Chapter of the National Technical Honor Society held its annual Induction Ceremony in April. At the ceremony, 8 Seniors and 38 Juniors were inducted. There are a total of 46 Technical Honor Society members for the 2016- 2017 school year.
NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY The Annual Induction Ceremony to the Northeast Chapter of the National Honor Society Artisans" was held in April. At the ceremony 1 Senior, 23 Juniors and 7 sophomores were inducted for the 2016- 2017 school year bringing the total membership to 31.
SCHOLARSHIP COMMITTEE The Northeast Awards and Scholarship Committee and PAC board presented awards and scholarships to 56 deserving students at the annual Senior Recognition Night. A total of$ 35, 510 was presented to Northeast students who will be working in their vocational fields, entering trade apprentice programs, or going on to one, two, or four-year programs at accredited colleges, universities, and trade schools. These awards and scholarships provide the students opportunities to purchase tools and equipment, and assist in offsetting the expense of attending institutions of higher education.
PEER MEDIATION PROGRAM Our Northeast Peer Mediation Center continues to help reduce problems at Northeast. The mediation process is successful in resolving conflicts concerning rumors, threats, name- calling, teasing, harassment, hazing, and physicalfights. Northeast has afull-time coordinator and 8 trained sophomore, junior and senior peer mediators. A trained mediator is a neutral person not involved in the dispute and through the mediation process, helps people come to their own agreement about how they want to resolve their conflict.
161 SCHOOL WIDE PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT 16-17
The goal of professional development is to:
o Ensure that staff members are in compliance with current regulations enacted by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE).
o Guarantee that all staff members are knowledgeable of legislation impacting the educational process of the commonwealth.
o Make staff members aware of the most recent trends and strategies in the district' s mission of improving student achievement.
The activities that met these goals during the 2016- 2017 school year included:
First Day Back Professional Development Day (August 29, 2016): Included training by Hult Company— school culture and team building. In addition, training was held on Special and General Education Laws, Civil Rights, and Discipline.
Educator Evaluation Training Throughout the School Year (November 14, January 23, March 13, April 10 and May 8) Teacher traning included the utilization of the self-assessment document with highlighted elements, writing SMART goals, creating and implementing District Determined Measures DDM' s), participating in focused peer observations, and building evidence binders.
Administrators and department heads received continued instruction and support in the Educator Evaluation process recently enacted by the DESE. Inaddition, department heads were trained in conducting and writing observations, formative and summative evaluations and reviewing and using evidence binders in evaluations. Teachers 21 conducted 4 training sessions on evaluations, what to look for and how to write quality evaluations.
Student safety concerns ( November 16, 2016) The school resource officer worked in conjunction with the Deans and the Administration to host Alice training to the entire staff and students.
Improving student achievement ( November 14- 16, 2016) A series of workshops were held for all teachers to highlight the connections between the academic course content and the career area content, specifically Strand 3. The Special Education Department received an extensive training on Special Education Law and best practices. The Career side of the house participated in a training on SKILLS assessment.
162 Curriculum Mapping (November 7, December 5, February 6, March 6, and April 10) 5 1h sessions during faculty meetings —how to teach in the long block. ATLAS curriculum mapping— how to use ATLAS and how to input lessons.
2017 SUMMER TRANSITION PROGRAM:
The Summer Transition and Enrichment Program at Northeast Metropolitan Regional Vocational School is a two-week program that ran from Monday July 10th until Friday July, 21st. This program was conducted as a transitional experience for students entering grade 9 in August 2017. This transition opportunity providing mathematics, English language Arts, and career and technical introductory activities is funded by the federal Title 1, and Carl D. Perkins grants. The students are provided with busing to and from school, and a mid morning snack. These services, as well as the program itself are run at no cost for the students or parents/ guardians. The students are divided into ten groups of no more than ten students. These groups spend one half of the morning split between mathematics and English Language Arts. The other half of the morning is spent in a career and technical mini exploratory exercise. During the summer of 2017 two laboratory sessions of Biology were introduced. Session 1 dealt with an Introduction to Sickle Cell Anemia, Genetics, and Micro Pipetting Skills. The students were introduced to basic concepts and vocabulary associated with genetics. The second lab exercise introduced the incoming students to Gel Electrophoresis. In summary, the students were introduced to biological concepts in a classroom and laboratory setting. They were taught several important laboratory skills and were asked to form hypotheses, perform experiments, interpret their results and share with peer groups. They experienced the synergy of learning from text/readings then applying their knowledge in the laboratory setting in a fun, safe and informative way.
Summer 2017 saw in excess of 150 incoming freshmen take advantage of this program. These incoming students develop familiarity with the building as well as an orientation to the concept of a career and technical high school. Most importantly these students work with staff members who become a recognizable face when the entire school population reports at the end of August.
Respectfully,
Joseph P. O' Brien, Jr. Summer Transition Coordinator
Fundingfor this program was provided through Title 1, and the Carl D. Perkins Occupational Education Act Federal grants.
163 SUPPORT SERVICES
The Northeast Student Services staff offers support and counseling to all students through individual and group counseling, specialized workshops and presentations, health services, and mediation services. All Northeast counselors are certified as School Adjustment Counselors and are qualified to handle a wide range of student issues. One School Adjustment Counselor is bilingual (Spanish-speaking).
The Career Counselor and Small Business Coordinator provide career awareness and career development services to all students. The Career Counselor and School Adjustment Counselors provide specialized support to students enrolled in non-traditional vocational areas. Two School Nurses provide health services and a Peer Mediation Coordinator implements a Peer Mediation Program.
Support groups are established each year based on student needs. Support groups for pregnant and parenting teens, social skills groups for freshmen, anger management, anxiety, and non- traditional support groups are examples of groups that have been offered in the past.
The School Adjustment Counselors provide individual counseling support and crisis intervention to all students as needed. They will provide support to homeless students, assessing their special needs and coordinating with the Homeless Liaison ( Administrator of Student Services). They also are responsible for developing and monitoring Section 504 Accommodation Plans in conjunction with the Administrator of Student Services. School Adjustment Counselors collaborate with school personnel, family members, doctors, psychiatrists, outside therapists, social workers, police, court personnel, and others.
The School Adjustment Counselor work to connect students and families with community based mental health services as needed. Elliot Community Human Services of Lynn serves as our crisis intervention linkage for emergency mental health services in the community.
The Bilingual School Adjustment Counselor provides native language support ( Spanish) as needed to limited English proficient students and families across all grades. She provides specific support to the English Language Education program at Northeast, but supports other Northeast Latino students and families as needed. Translation services ( oral and written) and interpreting services are often required for parent communication throughout the building, and as needed, this counselor coordinates with all departments to assist. Referrals are made to a Spanish- speaking Psychologist for testing for Special Education evaluation.
Career counseling and the college application process are emphasized by all school counselors. The Career Center is the focal area for a well-planned four-year career development program that prepares all Northeast students for their individually chosen career paths. The curriculum focuses on career assessment; career information and requirements; employability and entrepreneurial skills; interviewing skills; portfolios; and resume preparation. By providing assessments to evaluate skills, interests, and work values, the Career Counselor works with the School Adjustment Counselors to assist freshmen in their vocational selection process and upper class students with linkages to post- secondary education and employment opportunities.
164 The Career and Adjustment Counselors provide directed support to those students who are enrolled in career areas that are considered non-traditional for their gender. Students have the opportunity to participate in support groups, specialized presentations, and field trips that prepare them to understand the benefits of non-traditional choices, to manage challenges in each occupation and to understand the required post-secondary linkages to achieve their goals. The School Nurses have coordinated support services for pregnant and parenting teens with outside providers affiliated with local hospitals. In addition, they provide support to students with chronic medical conditions, coordinating with parents, doctors, nurses, etc. The School Nurses work closely with the School Adjustment Counselors to coordinate assistance when mental health needs arise. They also work closely with the Deans when emergency medical evaluations are required.
The Peer Mediation Coordinator at Northeast operates a Peer Mediation Program where upper class students undergo twelve hours of specialized training in mediation skills and implement a program to work out arising conflicts between students. This is a very positive prevention program that contributes to the development of a positive school climate as students learn to come to their own agreements about how to solve conflict.
In addition to the support provided by the counseling staff, the Special Education Department offers a TEAM meeting process that promotes monitoring of student progress and educational support. Each Special Education student is assigned a Liaison who is a teacher in the Special Education Department who oversees progress in relation to the Individual Education Program, communicating with parents, teachers, and counselors to help all students achieve success.
The Northeast Mentoring Program is a freshmen transition program that matches junior and senior mentors with small groups of freshmen students. The Northeast Mentors present the Freshmen Orientation day for freshmen and then meet with their groups throughout the year to offer support and to deliver positive lessons that promote a positive school climate. The mentors are trained in a leadership climate by the student services staff, developing a core of 111h h approximately 90 peer leaders from and 12' grades.
The After School Help Program is one of educational assistance provided to students having difficulty with one or more academic subjects by academic and vocational teachers. This free assistance is offered every Wednesday in the library from 2:45- 3: 25. Water and snacks are provided as well as free transportation home.
Special school-wide workshops and presentations are offered through the year for different groups of students. Each year, all freshmen participate in group workshops focusing on identifying the signs of depression and gender equity issues. Large group assemblies and presentations have been offered focusing on goal setting and acts of kindness, substance abuse, teen dating issues, tolerance, character building, and others.
On a larger scale, the student service emphasis is on communication — communication with students and with parents. Mid-term progress reports are sent to parents each quarter and report cards are sent home four times per year. E- mail communication is welcomed and progress update
165 meetings are held as needed. Parents and guardians are asked to be involved with all class scheduling activities.
Post- graduate planning information is shared through career assessment and planning activities. Additionally, the Guidance department held a FASFA night was held in January for parents to offer free support with financial aid specialists. A college planning night was held in April for sophomore and junior parents. Career Plans are sent home annually for parent review. Language development is communicated for Limited-English proficient students through assessment data and parent meetings. It is our goal to service all students equitably while attending specifically to those who have specific life challenges.
GRANTS RECEIVED IN FY 2017:
Entitlement and Allocation Grants
Title II, Part A: Improving Educator Quality, Fund Code: 140 The purpose of this federal grant program is to increase student achievement through comprehensive district initiatives that focus on the preparation, training, recruitment, and retention of highly qualified educators. These funds were utilized to support professional development in supervision.
Federal Special Education Entitlement, Fund Code: 240 The purpose of this federal entitlement grant program is to supplement local and state funds in providing services to students with disabilities. This funding source provides professional development for teachers of students with disabilities in addition to providing extended school day and extended school year ( summer) learning opportunities for this targeted population.
Special Education: Program Improvement Grant Fund Code: 274 The purpose of this state- funded grant program is to support professional development activities that will improve the quality of the services provided by the special education staff. During school year 2016- 17 the focus of this funding was to research the positive placement data for students with disabilities over the past three years. This data will be used to determine best practices in the career pathways to assist our graduates from this targeted population secure high paying, highly skilled positions that are in high demand either after high school or upon completion of post-secondary education.
Title I, Part A, Fund Code: 305: Title I, the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, provides school district with funding to increase student achievement. The district utilizes these funds to support extended school day and extended school year ( summer) learning opportunities for all students. The incoming grade 9 summer orientation program is one of the primary programs funded Title 1. Professional development, targeting increasing student achievement, is also funded through Title 1.
Perkins Act Allocation Grant Program— Secondary, Fund Code: 400 The Carl D. Perkins Occupational Education Act provides funding to assist school districts in improving secondary career and technical programs. The district utilizes this funding source 166 primarily to secure supplies, technology and equipment to guarantee that state- of-the- art conditions exist in the vocational settings of the school. In school year 2013- 14 the following career pathways were enhanced by Perkins funding
Department Purchase Automotive Snap- On Torque Testing System Technology Business technology High Capacity Printer/Scanner Culinary Arts Industry Standard boiler less Combi Oven Dental Assisting Curing Light, Intra Oral Camera, Eagle Software Program Health Assisting Electronic Medical Record Software Program compatible with Industry Standards 2 Industry Standard EKG machines Metal Fabrication 2 Yaskawa Motoman- 7 Axis Robots All areas Skills Plus competency tracking program Career Center Total Adoption of the revised Kuder Career Planning Program
SUMMER PROGRAMS
Northeast Metro Tech Summer School Program enjoyed another successful campaign since its inception in 1988. The Northeast Summer School serviced high school students, from a number of surrounding communities, in six different academic areas including, Math, Science, English, Social Studies, Language, and Vocational Related. The goals of promoting a positive learning atmosphere, retention, and promotion, as well as providing skills to assist each student at the next grade level are paramount objectives behind the philosophical make- up of our summer school.
Our summer program also continued with its Basic Welding certification program. This program was not only extremely successful, but gives both students and adults, from our surrounding communities, an opportunity to explore and possible begin new careers.
The Northeast Summer School program launched an on- line credit recovery program in 2014. In 2015, the program doubled in enrollment. This program is designed for students who need to fulfill credit deficits in courses that are not running due to low enrollment. These courses are monitored by a credit recovery specialist instructor, and meet all Massachusetts DESE curriculum frameworks requirements.
COMMUNITY EDUCATION PROGRAM
The Community Education Program is a broad base collaborative community initiative assisting learners ofall kinds complete their education and achieve economic self-sufficiency through empowerment skills, health care, support services and meaningful employment.
167 Our vision is to deliver educational experience in a positive environment that will enable Northeast to reach new heights together with our lifelong learning community. The focus of the Community Education Program is to offer programs that meet the demands of our learning populations. In doing this, we give people the opportunity to improve employment skills, fulfill lifelong goals, or enrich their lives with social activities. With the most qualified instructors, and state of the art labs Northeast strives to maintain the highest standards of education. Emphasis is on our new technology, upgrades such as brochure modification, new state of the art web site construction, and the introduction of new programs in the medical field, new culinary classes, continuing education in all construction related courses, computer and CAD classes, photography and many other enrichment courses. We are also proud participants of hosting the Wakefield Relay for Life, by doing this, it guarantees a succession plan well into the future for this much needed program.
2016 GRADUATES The 2015- 16 school year represents the Forty Sixth class to matriculate at Northeast Metropolitan Regional Vocational School. Northeast graduated 287 students. Breakdown of graduates' status after graduation is as follows:
Attending 4- year college 46 Employed 116 Attending 2- year college 70 Entering Military Service 5 Apprentice school 6 Other 3
SPECIAL NEEDS ENROLLMENT
Special Needs enrollment for the 2015- 16 school year continued to represent approximately one quarter share of the total school enrollment with students. The 290 Special Needs students represent 23. 3% of the school population. Additionally, 75 students were eligible for services under section 504 of the Rehabitation Act.
DISTRICT SCHOOL COMMITTEE ELECTION OF OFFICERS At the Annual Organizational Meeting of the District School Committee on January 12, 2017 the following members were elected as Officers of the Northeast District School Committee:
Chairman Deborah P. Davis, of Woburn Vice Chairman Judith M. Dyment, of North Reading Secretary Peter A. Rossetti, Jr. of Saugus Treasurer Larry Means, of Stoneham Assoc. Treasurer Vincent J. Carisella, of Wakefield
168 CONCLUSION
As Northeast celebrates its forty-sixth year of career/technical excellence with its twelve member communities, the district continues to offer students the finest career technical education with which to build a successful career.
The District supports curriculum in both academic and career technical classrooms with the latest equipment and technology. Evidence of our commitment is reflected in the State' s grade 9 — 12 Dropout rate reports which indicates Northeast significantly lower at 0. 6% versus the State rate of 2. 0%. Recent graduate follow up data indicates that 98% of students from the Class of 2015 were positively placed in relevant post-secondary areas ( Source: MA DESE CVTE Grad Follow- up Survey INTERIMResults, Nov 2015).
In fact, Northeast currently employs 30 alumni at the school, including the Superintendent- Director. Alumni' s stories of success and their readiness and willingness to help their alma mater by recruiting graduates for cooperative education experiences or employment is proof of their dedication to Northeast. Testimonials as to the success of our graduates continue to be received which makes us proud to have contributed in some small way to their accomplishments
The Northeast Class of 2017 achieved a 99. 7% pass rate on the MCAS assessments. Northeast continues to offer school day MCAS Enrichment Classes and after school enrichment programs for those students in need of additional preparation for the MCAS. Northeast also offers a well- attended Summer Transition Program for incoming freshmen and as a Summer Enrichment Program for enrolled at risk students preparing for the MCAS state assessments.
The Career Center facilitates student access to technology to further learn business aspects of their industries, develop career plans, resumes, and comprehensive portfolios, and prepare college and other post- secondary documents with the assistance of our faculty including Career and Adjustment Counselors.
Northeast continues to provide students the finest career technical education with which to build a positive and productive post-secondary experience, be it college or career, offering experiences with the latest equipment and technology in both the career technical and academic programs.
Once again, I am proud to have represented Winthrop as a member of the Northeast Metropolitan Regional Vocational District School Committee. I will continue to serve as the guardian of funds allocated from the community to this educational institution and assist in and provide counsel to the school in maintaining the highest standards of educational excellence possible.
Respectfully submitted,
Robert S. McCarthy, Committee Member Northeast School Committee Reading Representative
169 ENROLLMENT HISTORY
S. Y. S. Y. S. Y. S. Y. S. Y. S. Y. S. Y. S. Y. S. Y. S. Y. S. Y. S. Y. CITY/TOWN 04- 05- 06- 07- 08- 09- 10- 11- 12- 13- 14- 15- DISTRICT 05 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16
Chelsea 258 221 203 198 206 190 195 199 204 199 208 218
Malden 175 215 238 234 222 216 215 198 194 189 170 165
Melrose 36 56 64 64 48 45 62 61 67 74 62 60
North Reading 30 28 40 38 37 37 36 35 32 27 34 37 Reading 25 19 26 26 26 28 23 16 19 17 17 16 Revere 256 241 242 238 244 238 234 225 223 224 216 234
Saugus 139 146 137 138 161 174 191 204 200 190 199 187
Stoneham 37 34 46 44 46 52 54 59 69 73 71 62
Wakefield 36 59 65 61 84 91 98 79 70 68 64 63
Winchester 6 7 9 9 7 11 13 15 14 11 9 13
Winthrop 37 41 45 44 55 65 58 60 65 62 68 60 Woburn 107 99 97 97 70 59 55 65 83 98 115 114
TOTALS: 1142 1166 1212 1191 1206 1206 1234 1216 1240 1232 1235 1229
NON DISTRICT 48 43 47 53 39 42 31 35 28 29 32 30
GRAND TOTAL: 1190 1209 1259 1244 1245 1248 1265 1251 1268 1261 1267 1259
SPECIAL NEEDS ENROLLMENT 275 287 320 342 333 323 330 331 326 313 317 314 SPECIAL NEEDS ENROLLMENT 23% 24% 26% 27% 27% 26% 26% 26% 26% 26% 27% 23%
170 APPOINTED AND ELECTED TOWN BOARDS, COMMITTEES & COMMISSIONS
Title Positions Term Oris Term Appt, 2 Date Lxg Auth
Animal Control Appeals Committee
3 3 years BOS Richard Robbins 42 Dudley Street 15) 2018 Tina Ohlson, Chairman 200 Forest Street 08) 2020 John Miles 532 West Street 09) 2019 Joyce Gould ( Associate) 17 John Street 15) 2018
Audit Committee 7 3 years Paul McNeice 20 Johanna Drive 13) 2019 FinCom Phil Pacino 5 Washington Street 10) 2020 RMLD Unit D6 Stephen Herrick 9 Dividence Road 05) 2018 BOS Elaine Webb 309 Pearl Street 17) 2020 Sch. Com. Jeanne Borawski 3 Deer Path Lane 14) 2018 Sch. Com. Peter Lydecker 7 Beaver Road 17) 2018 FinCom Barry Berman 54 Longview Road 16) 2019 BOS
Board of Assessors 3 3 years BOS Francis J. Golden, Chairman 5 Wells Road 13) 2019 Robert N. Marshall 108 Franklin Street 14) 2020 Michael Golden 12 Hampshire Road 17) 2018
Board of Cemetery Trustees 6 3 years BOS Virginia Blodgett 99 Prescott Street 17) 2018 VACANT 2020
William C. Brown, Sec. 28 Martin Road 96) 2018 Janet Baronian, Chairman 75 Mill Street 99) 2020 Ronald Stortz, V. Chr. 538 Summer Ave. 04) 2019
Elise M. Ciregna 226 Charles Street 07) 2019
BOS —Board of Selectmen; T. Mgr. —Town Manager; Mod. —Town Moderator; B. V. of O. —By virtue of office; Sch. Com. —School Committee; FChr. —Finance Committee Chairman; E. by E. Elected by Employees. All terms expire June 30 of year noted, unless indicated otherwise. Associate membership ( except for ZBA) becomes effective when approved by the Attorney General
171 Board of Health 3 3 years BOS Kevin Sexton 20 Emerson Street 17) 2020 Heidi Pfeifer 149 Forest Street 17) 2018 John Costigan, Chairman 75 Mill Street 16) 2019
Board of Library Trustees 6 3 years Elected Nina E. Pennacio 94 Eastway 17) April' 20 Sherri Lynn Vanden Akker 271 Summer Ave 17) April' 20 Alice Collins, Secretary 23 Mineral Street 12) April' 18 John E. Brzezenski, Chairman 60 Terrace Park 13) April' 19 Cherrie Dubois, V. Chairman 9 Meadow Brook Lane ( 07) April' 19 Andrew Grimes 103 Oak Street 12) April' 18
Board of Registrars 4 3 years BOS
2 from each major
party Harry Simmons 17 Pine Ridge Road 06) 2020 Gloria R. Hulse 107 Sanborn Lane 92) 2018 Krissandra Holmes 77 Redgate Lane 06) 2019 Laura Gemme 16 Lowell Street 09) Inde£ B. V. of O.
Board of Selectmen 5 3 years Elected Daniel Ensminger, Secretary 6 Oakland Road 13) April' 19 John R. Halsey 75 Beaver Road 14) April' 20 Andrew Friedmann 27 Hillcrest Road 17) April' 20 John Arena, Chairman 26 Francis Drive 12) April' 18 Barry Berman, Vice Chair 54 Longview Road 15) April' 19
Bylaw Committee 5 3 years Appt. Com VACANT 2019 Jeffrey W. Struble, Chairman 4 Tower Road 13) 2020 Stephen Crook 137 Pleasant Street 12) 2018 Paul J. Sylvester, V. Chr. 421 Summer Avenue ( 13) 2020 Christopher O' Donoghue, Sec. 173 Van Norden Road ( 15) 2018
172 Bylaw Committee Appointment Committee Jeffrey W. Struble 4 Tower Road Chair Bylaw Com John Arena 26 Francis Drive Chair BOS Alan Foulds 9 Ide Street Town Moderator
Celebration Committee 5 3 years Kurt Habel 832 Main Street 99) 2018 BOS VACANT 2020 Mod. Samantha Couture 56 Pearl Street 17) 2020 Historical Bob McLaughlin 14 Galvin Circle 02) 2016 Library Everett Blodgett, Chairman 99 Prescott Street 00) 2018 Sch. Com.
Climate Advisory Committee 5 3 years BOS Gretchen Latowsky 24c Carnation Circle 17) 2018 David Zeek, Chairman 163 Pearl Street 15) 2020 Celeste Kracke 6 Sweetser Avenue 17) 2020 Ray Porter, Secretary 529 Franklin Street 07) 2018 Laurie Ann Sylvia 1176 Main Street 11) 2019 Gina Snyder ( Associate) 11 Jadem Terrace 06) 2018 Jeffrey Everson ( Associate) 21 Pine Ridge Road 16) 2019
Commissioners of Trust Funds 5 3 years BOS Elizabeth W. Klepeis, Chr. 68 Tennyson Road 05) 2020 Neil L. Cohen 73 Hillcrest Road 07) 2018 John J. Daly, V. Chr. 163 Woburn Street 95) 2019 Barry Berman 54 Longview Road 17) 2020 Richard Holmes ( Associate) 77 Redgate Lane 16) 2018 Kevin Briere ( Associate) 24 Greystone 17) 2019 Endri Kume 16 Lowell Street Inde£ BVO
Community Planning & Development Commission 5 3 years BOS Karen Goncalves- Dolan 754 Pearl Street 15) 2020 Rachel Hitch 45 Bear Hill Road 17) 2018 Nicholas Safina 221 South Street 06) 2019 John Weston 10 Winthrop Ave. 07) 2019
David B. Tuttle 27 Heather Drive 06) 2020 Tony D' Arezzo ( Associate) 130 John Street 17) 2019
173 Conservation Commission 7 3 yrs BOS Rebecca Longley 550 Summer Avenue ( 14) 2020 Robert Hayes 739 Pearl Street 17) 2020 Harry Curtis 668 Haverhill Street 16) 2018 David Pinette 22 Colonial Drive 16) 2019 VACANT 2018 Annika Scanlon, Chairman 3 Copeland Avenue 06) 2019 Michael Flynn 190 Green Street 15) 2018
Constables Up to 4 3 years BOS Thomas H. Freeman P. O. Box 825 93) 2018 Sally M. Hoyt 221 West Street 72) 2020 VACANT 2019 VACANT 2019
Contributory Retirement 5 3 years Board David Gentile 72 Azalea Circle 2020 E. by E. Joe Veno 11 Rock Street 2019 E. by E. North Reading Sharon Angstrom, Town Acct. 16 Lowell Street Inde£ B.V. of O. Carol Roberts 432 Humphrey Street 12/ 17 BOS Thomas A. Clough 172 Summer Avenue 2018 Board
Council on Aging 10 3 years BOS
Margaret Havey 23 Van Norden Road ( 06) 2018 Joan Coco 4 Fremont Street 17) 2019 VACANT 2019 Thomas Procopio 424 South Street 12) 2018 John Parsons 3 C Street 14) 2020 Brian Snell, Chairman 99 Walnut Street 14) 2019 Marilyn Shapleigh, Secretary 11 John Carver Road ( 14) 2018 VACANT 2020 Sandra J. Shaffer 239 Main Street 14) 2020 Jolyn Ek 8 Frank Tanner Dr. 48 ( 14) 2018 Jayna Stafford (Associate) 50 Longfellow Road 17) 2019 Pooja Parsons ( Associate) 25 Landers Road 15) 2018 Sally M. Hoyt( Associate) 221 West Street 04) 2019
174 Cultural Council 7 3 years ( 6 max) BOS
Nora Bucko 86 Van Norden Road ( 15) 2019 Beth Mosier 30 Taylor Drive Unit ( 16) 2018 2004 Nancy Ziemlak 15 Orchard Park Drive ( 14) 2020 Maryann Kozlowski 16 Weston Road 14) 2018 Rosemary Lewis, Secretary 273 Forest Street 14) 2020 Jane Soloway 214 Grove Street 15) 2018 Donna Schenkel, Chairman 368 Franklin Street 13) 2020 Megan Fidler-Carey ( Associate) 64 Charles Street 17) 2018
Custodian of Soldier' s And 1 up to 5 years BOS Sailor' s Graves Francis P. Driscoll 7 Ordway Terrace 92) 2019
9 3 years Appointment
Finance Committee 9 years max Com Paula Perry, Vice Chair 40 Beaver Road 10) 2020 Marc Moll 41 Richards Road 14) 2020 Anne Landry 15 Center Avenue 14) 2020 David Neshat 1204 Main Street 15) 2018 Vanessa Alvarado 7 Grand Street 15) 2018 Paul McNeice 20 Johanna Drive 12) 2019 Mark Dockser 110 Beaver Road 10) 2019
Eric Burkhart 161 Belmont Street 16) 2019 Peter Lydecker, Chair 7 Beaver Road 14) 2018
FinCom 3 1 year Appointment Committee Alan E. Foulds, Chairman 9 Ide Street Inde£ Moderator Mark Dockser 110 Beaver Road Inde£ Fin. Chr. John Arena 26 Francis Drive Inde£ Chr. BOS
175 Historic District Commission 5 3 years BOS Virginia Adams 59 Azalea Circle 09) 2018 Priscilla Poehler 43 Bancroft Avenue 09) 2018 Everett Blodgett, Chairman 99 Prescott Street 09) 2019 Greg Maganzini 168 West Street 14) 2019 Ilene Bornstein 80 Haystack Road 09) 2020 Jack Williams ( Associate) 46 Summer Avenue 15) 2018
Historical Commission 5 + 3 years BOS Associates Jack Williams 46 Summer Avenue 15) 2019 Ronald Weston 63 Blueberry Lane 14) 2020 Sharlene Reynolds Santo 46 Wakefield St. 99) 2018 Jonathan Barnes 41 Pratt Street 14) 2019 Samantha Couture 56 Pearl Street 17) 2020 Virginia M. Adams ( Associate) 59 Azalea Circle 78) 2018
Housing Authority 5 5 years BOS Kevin F. Mulvey, V. Chr. 67 Whittier Road 08) 2018 Richard Robbins 42 Dudley Street 15) 2020 Madeline Hodgdon 4 Frank Tanner Drive ( 13) 2017 47 Diane Cohen, 73 Hillcrest 04) 2021 State Appts Timothy Kelley, Chairman 84 Woburn Street 96) 2019
Human Relations Advisory 7 3 years BOS Committee Kyung Yu 900 Main Street 14) 2020
VACANT 2019 VACANT(SCHOOL) 2020 John Arena( BOS) 26 Francis Drive 17) 2018 David Clark (Police) 15 Union Street 16) 2019 Lynn Dornink 18 Cherry Lane Drive ( 15) 2018 Heather McLean, Chairman 20 Green Street 15) 2019 Joshua Goldlust( Associate) 112 Spruce Road 17) 2018 Jamie Michaels ( Associate) 32 Baker Road 17) 2019
MBIA Advisory Board 1 Indef Town Mgr VACANT
176 Metropolitan Area Planning Council 1 + 3 years BOS Alternate INACTIVE
Moderator 1 year Elected Alan Foulds 9 Ide Street April 18
Municipal Light Board 5 3 years Elected Philip B. Pacino, Secretary 5 Washington St. Unit ( 87) April 19 D6 David Talbot 75 Linden Street 13) April 19 Thomas O' Rourke 50 Chequessett Road ( 14) April 20 David Hennessy 7 Pine Ridge Road 15) April 18 John Stempeck 65 Avalon Road 12) April 18
Mystic Valley Elder Services 2 3 years Board of Directors Jane Burns 16 Lowell Street 12) 9/ 30/ 18 COA Brian Snell 99 Walnut Street 15) 9/ 30/ 18 BOS
Permanent Building 5 + 2 3 years Appoint. Committee Temporary Com. Gregory Stepler, Chairman 77 Mineral Street 15) 2018 Patrick Tompkins 83 King Street 15) 2018
John Coote 332 Summer Avenue ( 15) 2020 Nancy Twomey 23 California Road 15) 2020 Bradford Congdon, Vice Chair 80 Prospect Street 15) 2019 Michael Bean ( Associate) 14 Nichols Road 15) 2019 David Traniello ( Associate) 1 Old Mill Lane 15) 2018
Permanent Building 3 B.V.O. Committee Appointment Committee Alan Foulds, Chairman 9 Ide Street Town Moderator John Arena 26 Francis Drive Chairman BOS Chuck Robinson 81 Prospect Street Chr. School Com.
177 RCTV Board of Directors 3 3 years BOS & Sch Com Stephen Goldy 42 Berkeley Street 14) 2019 BOS John Carpenter 2020 RCTV VACANT 2018 BOS
Reading Ice Arena Authority 1 3 years BOS Carl McFadden 33 Wakefield Street 10) 2020
RMLD Citizen Advisory Board 1 3 years BOS Neil Cohen 73 Hillcrest Road 17) 2020
Recreation Committee 8 + 1 Sch. 3 years BOS Com. + Alt. VACANT 2018 Michael DiPietro 23 Sanborn Lane 04) 2019 Adam Chase, Chairman 8 Gardner Road 93) 2020 Richard Hand 20 Meadowbrook Ln. ( 11) 2020 Francis Driscoll 7 Ordway Terrace 04) 2019 Jeanne Borawski 3 Deer Path Lane 14) 2020 Sch. Com. Lori Russo 467 West Street 16) 2019
Daniel Foley, Co- Chair 32 Grand Street 14) 2018
Emily Sisson 92 John Street 15) 2018
Mary Ellen Stolecki ( Associate) 33 Lewis Street 00) 2018
Catherine R. Kaminer (Assoc.) 37 Warren Avenue 88) 2018 Gill Congdon ( Associate) 39 Taylor Drive 16) 2019
Regional School District 1 4 years Elected Committee Robert S. McCarthy 12) Nov`20
178 Rules Committee 8 1 year Precinct more than 6
coconsecutive years Member Alan Foulds, Chairman 9 Ide Street Inde£ Moderator Sheila Mulroy 107 Eastway 17) Anthony D' Arezzo 130 John Street 17) Paul Sylvester ( Precinct 3) 421 Summer Avenue 15) Russell Graham 68 Maple Ridge Road ( 17) Anne Landry 15 Center Ave 17) Michelle Sanphy 75 Glenmere Circle 17) Dan Ensminger 6 Oakland Road 17) Damien Morinon 64 Marla Lane 17)
School Committee 6 3 years Elected Linda Snow Dockser 110 Beaver Road 14) April 20 Nicholas Boivin 3 Estate Lane 16) April 19 ( 17) Jeanne M. Borawski, Chairman 3 Deer Path Lane 13) April 20 Charles Robinson, V. Chairman 81 Prospect Street 07) April 19 Elaine L. Webb 309 Pearl Street 14) April 18 Gary Nihan/ Sherri Vanden April 18 Akker
Sick Bank Committee 9 3 years Kathy Miksis 64 Middlesex Ave. 2018 T. Mgr. Cindy McGrath 16 Lowell Street T. Mgr. Michael O' Halloran 16 Lowell Street T. Mgr. INACTIVE T. Mgr. George Strazzere ( DPW 16 Lowell Street Union Supervisor) INACTIVE Union INACTIVE Union Tom Ward (DPW) 16 Lowell Street 2018 Union INACTIVE T. Mgr. Mike Fitzgerald (Police Patrol) 15 Union Street 2019 Union James D' Entremont(Eng.) 16 Lowell Street 2019 Union
179 Town Forest Committee 5 3 years BOS William Sullivan 44 Blueberry Lane 13) 2019 Richard Wetzler, Chairman 9 Gould Street 12) 2018 Thomas Gardiner 182 Franklin Street 10) 2019 Farrukh Najmi 65 Marla Lane 13) 2020 Kurt Habel 832 Main Street 13) 2018 Nancy Docktor( Associate) 371 Pearl Street 15) 2019 Michael Bourque ( Associate) 76 John Street 15) 2018 Daniel Ford( Associate) 165 Salem Street 15) 2018
Trails Committee 5 3 years BOS Thomas S. Gardiner, Chairman 182 Franklin Street 08) 2018 VACANT 2019 Jean Jacobs 73 Fairchild Drive 12) 2018 David Williams 117 Oak Street 08) 2019 William Finch 51 Mill Street 11) 2020 John E. Parsons ( Associate) 3 C Street 08) 2018
Volunteer Appointment BOS Subcommittee Daniel Ensminger 6 Oakland Road 16) Barry Berman 54 Longview Road 16)
Zoning Board of Appeals 5 + 2 3 years BOS Associates Nick Pernice ( Associate) 25 Highland Street 16) 2019 Robert A. Redfern 54 Prospect Street 01) 2018
John A. Jarema, Vice Chairman 797 Main Street 78) 2019 David Traniello, Chairman 1 Old Mill Lane 12) 2018 Kathleen Hackett 3 Indiana Avenue 12) 2017 Erik Hagstrom ( Associate) 53 Arcadia Avenue 13) 2019 Damase Caouette 11 Field Pond Drive 09) 2020
180