School Committee Meeting
February 26, 2018
Open Session
7:00 P.M.
Superintendent’s Conference Room
Town of Reading Meeting Posting with Agenda
2016-09-22 LAG Board - Committee - Commission - Council:
School Committee
Date: 2018-02-26 Time: 7:00 PM
Building: School - Memorial High Location: Superintendent Conference Room
Address: 82 Oakland Road Agenda:
Purpose: Open Session
Meeting Called By: Linda Engelson on behalf of the Chair
Notices and agendas are to be posted 48 hours in advance of the meetings excluding Saturdays, Sundays and Legal Holidays. Please keep in mind the Town Clerk’s hours of operation and make necessary arrangements to be sure your posting is made in an adequate amount of time. A listing of topics that the chair reasonably anticipates will be discussed at the meeting must be on the agenda.
All Meeting Postings must be submitted in typed format; handwritten notices will not be accepted.
Topics of Discussion:
7:00 p.m. A Call to Order
7:05 p.m. B. Public Comment
7:05 – 7:10 p.m. C. Consent Agenda - Accept Donations to the Wood End School - Accept a Donation from the RMHS PTO - Accept a Donation from RMHS PSST - Approval of Minutes (February 5, 2018)
7:10 – 7:25 p.m. D. Reports 1. Students 2. Liaison/Sub-Committee 3. Superintendent 4. Assistant Superintendent 5. Director of Student Services 6. Director of Finance
E. Old Business 7:25 – 8:00 p.m. 1. FY2019 Budget – Half Day Kindergarten 8:00 – 8:20 p.m. 2. Joshua Eaton School Improvement Plan Update 8:20 – 8:40 p.m. 3. Quarterly Personnel Update 8:40 – 9:00 p.m. 4. Quarterly FY2018 Budget Update
F. New Business 9:00 – 9:15 p.m. 1. Assistant Superintendent Search Timeline and Process 9:15 – 9:30 p.m. 2. Override Ballot Question
This Agenda has been prepared in advance and represents a listing of topics that the chair reasonably anticipates will be discussed at the meeting. However the agenda does not necessarily include all matters which may be taken up at this meeting.
Page | 1
Town of Reading Meeting Posting with Agenda
G. Information/Correspondence 1. Two Emails from Rebecca Liberman – Transfer of funds out of regular day cost center last June 2. Email from Meghan Shinn – Half-day K concerns 3. Email from Rebecca Liberman - Please hold a hearing on the proposal to save the middle school teachers in the FY19 budget H. Routine Matters 1. Bills & Payroll Warrants 2. Calendar
I. Future Business
9:30 p.m. J. Adjourn
9:35 p.m. K. Executive Session
This Agenda has been prepared in advance and represents a listing of topics that the chair reasonably anticipates will be discussed at the meeting. However the agenda does not necessarily include all matters which may be taken up at this meeting.
Page | 2 John F. Doherty, Ed. D. Craig Martin, M.Ed. Superintendent of Schools Assistant Superintendent
82 Oakland Road Carolyn J. Wilson, M.Ed., JD Reading, MA 01867 Director of Student Services Phone: 781-944-5800 Fax: 781-942-9149 Gail Dowd, CPA Director of Finance
Reading Public Schools
Instilling a joy of learning and inspiring the innovative leaders of tomorrow
TO: Reading School Committee
FROM: John F. Doherty, Ed.D. Superintendent of Schools
DATE: February 22, 2017
TOPIC: Accept a Donation to the Wood End School
At our meeting on Monday night, I will ask the School Committee to accept a donation in the form of a $200 gift certificate from the Reading Municipal Light Department. This gift certificate is being awarded to Wood End because they had a winning participant in the RMLD’s annual electric contest. The gift certificate for School Specialties will be used for general supplies.
If you have any questions, please contact me.
The Reading Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, gender identity, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, age or disability.
John F. Doherty, Ed. D. Craig Martin, M.Ed. Superintendent of Schools Assistant Superintendent
82 Oakland Road Carolyn J. Wilson, M.Ed., JD Reading, MA 01867 Director of Student Services Phone: 781-944-5800 Fax: 781-942-9149 Gail Dowd, CPA Director of Finance
Reading Public Schools
Instilling a joy of learning and inspiring the innovative leaders of tomorrow
TO: Reading School Committee
FROM: John F. Doherty, Ed.D. Superintendent of Schools
DATE: February 22, 2017
TOPIC: Accept a Donation to Reading Memorial High School
At our meeting on Monday night, I will ask the School Committee to accept a donation in the amount of $1,200 from the RMHS PTO to be used to support the New Repertory Theater performance of “To Kill a Mockingbird” at Reading Memorial High School
If you have any questions, please contact me.
The Reading Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, gender identity, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, age or disability.
Town of Reading Meeting Minutes
2016-09-22 LAG Board - Committee - Commission - Council:
School Committee
Date: 2018-02-05 Time: 7:00 PM
Building: School - Memorial High Location: Superintendent Conference Room
Address: 82 Oakland Road Session: Open Session
Purpose: Open Session Version: Draft
Attendees: Members - Present:
Chuck Robinson, Sherri Vanden Akker, Nick Boivin, Jeanne Borawski, Linda Snow Dockser, and Elaine Webb
Members - Not Present:
Student Representatives Cutone & Coumounduros
Others Present:
Superintendent John Doherty, Director of Finance Gail Dowd, Assistant Superintendent Craig Martin, Director of Student Services Carolyn Wilson, RPS Administrators Joanne King, LisaMarie Ippolito, Heather Leonard, RPS Budget Liaisons, Selectmen Barry Berman, Al Sylvia - Reading Chronicle, Bob Holmes - Patch
Minutes Respectfully Submitted By: Linda Engelson on behalf of the Chair
Topics of Discussion:
I. Call to Order
Chair Robinson reviewed the agenda and called the meeting to order and reviewed the agenda.
II. Recommended Procedure
A. Public Comment
Marianne Downing read a statement from Rebecca Liberman who asked the School Committee to do everything they could to preserve teaching positions.
Selectman Barry Berman thanked the School Committee for attending the recent Board of Selectmen meeting at which the override number was discussed and voted. He said it is important to work collaboratively and be transparent as we continue to work through this process.
B. Consent Agenda
Mrs. Webb asked if the committee wanted anything to be removed from the consent agenda. There was none.
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Consent Agenda
- Approval of RMHS French Exchange Field Trip - Accept a Donation to the RISE Preschool - Accept a Donation to the Parker Middle School - Accept Donations to the Wood End School - Accept a Donation from RMHS PSST - Approval of Minutes (January 11, 18 & 22, 2018)
Mrs. Webb moved, seconded by Dr. Snow Dockser, to approve the consent agenda. The motion carried 6-0.
C. Reports
Liaison
Dr. Snow Dockser reported that there will be a community conversation at the Reading Public Library on March 21st using the World Café model.
Mrs. Webb reminded the committee that the FY2019 balanced budget will be presented at the Fincom meeting on Wednesday night.
Director of Student Services
Mrs. Wilson reported that 7 teachers are enrolled in an online course at the Landmark School, 6 from Eaton and 1 from the high school. She next reported that the next SEPAC meeting is February 12th in the Superintendent’s Conference Room and at the February 26th School Committee meeting she will be reporting on the DESE Mid-Cycle review and OCR updates.
Superintendent
Dr. Doherty updated the committee on the high school principal search indicating that the screening committee has met twice and the interviews will be held on Thursday. Following the initial interviews, a pool of prefinalists will be determined who will meet with the Superintendent. After those meetings finalists will be chosen and site visits and open microphone nights will be scheduled. This will more than likely occur after vacation.
He next reported on the incoming kindergarten class. We currently have 317 incoming kindergarten students, 40 of which are enrolled in the half day program. Anyone that registers for full day kindergarten from this point will be placed on a waitlist. This year we will have two half day kindergarten sites; one at Joshua Eaton and the other at the Killam School. Half day students from Barrows will attend Joshua Eaton and the half day students from Wood End and Birch Meadow will attend Killam.
D. Old Business
Second Reading of Revised Policy JICFB – Bullying Prevention
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Mrs. Webb moved, seconded by Mr. Boivin, to accept and approve the second reading of revised Policy JICFB – Bullying Prevention
Superintendent Doherty updated the committee on the changes made to the plan and policy ensuring the language was the same on both documents.
The motion carried 6-0.
Reconstruction/Override Budget
Chair Robinson said he was comfortable with the number as a result of the January 30th Selectmen meeting and agreed with Mr. Berman in remaining transparent throughout the whole process.
Superintendent Doherty thanked the Board of Selectmen on the process and thoughtful discussion during the recent meeting to determine the proposed override question and amount. The benefit and capital costs are factored into the total amount approved by the Selectmen.
Once the dollar amount was determined by the Selectmen vote, the Superintendent went back to the District Leadership Team to develop a prioritized plan of items to include in the Reconstruction Plan. The Priority Plan is focused on restoring/retaining classroom teachers and classroom support, restoring technology support and increases technology replacement for classrooms, creates systems which allow for alignment of curriculum standards and teaching practices across the five elementary schools, will strengthen our core instruction (Tier 1) for all students, increased special education leadership for building support and program development, creates a sustainable model for curriculum renewal, restores athletics to current program levels and builds in expenses to all for greater sustainability in Years 2 and 3.
Dr. Doherty outlined each area of the proposed reconstruction/override budget.
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Retain and Restore Teaching Staff/Student Support
The 16.0 FTE proposed in the priority plan represents 69% of the total funding requested. It allows us to retain the middle school model and schedule, including Grade 6 ELA, Grade 7 and 8 Foreign Language, elementary class sizes for grades 3 – 5, current elementary tutor hours during the school day, provides additional course selections at RMHS, more AP classes across all disciplines, use NEASC process to restructure current offerings and provides opportunities to retain and attract staff by making salaries more comparable with other communities.
Learning and Teaching Support (Curriculum, Training and Technology)
The funding in the proposed priority plan in this area will be used for curriculum replacement, and renewal each year, it will provide on-going training for teachers and other staff across all levels, and increase technology support and replacement of older computers.
Learning and Teaching Support (Leadership)
Positions included in this area include 2.0 FTE Curriculum Coordinators, 0.5 FTE Special Education Team Chair and 0.5 FTE Assistant Director of Student Services. This will allow the district to create a system and infrastructure to reflect the demands of new educational standards and address the challenges of meeting the needs of all students and provides additional special education leadership to support and strengthen our indistrict programs.
The Curriculum Coordinators will improve the consistency in teaching and learning among our five elementary schools with the goal being that each student has the same learning experiences grades K – 5. They will also assist in providing a smooth curricular transition to middle school, facilitate ongoing improvement of educational programs, coordinate and maintain curriculum document, align to state standards, provide content expertise and feedback for staff and help coordinate and provide ongoing training for teachers.
The addition of special education staffing will allow us to provide greater oversight to our special education programs and teachers with a greater focus on special education program development and improvement and provide additional support to building principals at the elementary level.
Athletics
The priority plan restores the athletic game schedule to current levels as well as the elementary chorus after school program.
Dr. Doherty concluded by sharing that communication is a key element to any successful override vote and shared what the district is doing in this area including budget bulletins via newsletters and blogs, meeting with School Council and PTO groups, holding optional staff meetings, office hours and addressing questions from the community.
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Mr. Robinson asked if the Curriculum Coordinators would have an evaluation role. Dr. Doherty said both the Curriculum Coordinators and team Chairs will assist the elementary principals in this area.
Mr. Boivin asked for clarification on the title Curriculum Coordinator and asked about the challenges of having 5 elementary schools. He also asked about the demands put on elementary teachers that teach multiple subjects. Dr. Doherty responded by saying that curriculum coordinators are common positions in education and it is an administrative position with a strong content knowledge background. They will also have a vast knowledge of the frameworks and standards based instruction.
In response to Mr. Boivin’s question regarding the challenges of having 5 elementary schools, Dr. Doherty referenced a decision made around the time discussions were held regarding the addition of a fifth elementary school and the value of neighborhood schools. The Superintendent said that the elementary teachers are among the hardest working group because of what they do every day in their classrooms (new curriculum, social emotional wellbeing, diverse classrooms, a more inclusionary environment and a toolbox that allows them to deal with all kids in the classroom).
Dr. Vanden Akker asked if the curriculum coordinators would be working with the data coach. The answer was yes.
Mrs. Webb moved, seconded by Mrs. Borawski, to accept the prioritized list of funded items as presented in the amount of $2,137,250.
Marianne Downing asked why the curriculum coordinators were not K-5 vs. K – 6. Dr. Doherty said they will be assisting with the transition from grade 5 – 6, working with the middle school principals and staff. Mrs. Downing followed up asking about the curriculum pacing guides and charts development. Dr. Doherty responded by saying they would be assisting in this area.
Mr. Boivin expressed concerns with adding FTEs in FY19 without the true cost moving forward and went onto say that he supports the override and has looked everywhere for funds and there is nothing left to cut.
The motion carried 6-0.
E. New Business
Statement of Interest – Accelerated Repair Program
Director of Facilities Joe Huggins reviewed the MSBA Statement of Interest process. Reading will be submitting a Statement of Interest as part of the Accelerated Repair Program to address the need to replace a boiler at the high school. The current boiler was moved from the old building during construction and put online as one of the two boilers in the building. It is reaching the end of its useful life. The application is comprised of two main sections; educational history/Impact & facility background/history. This process ensures that the asset being applied for is not going to be part of a larger renovation in the near term. To be eligible the value of the project needs to exceed $250,000, the boiler
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replacement is estimated at approximately $585,000, the system must be at least 20 years old and the funding for the project must be allocated and approved. The FY19 Capital Plan has $585,000 for the replacement of the boiler and the Facilities Department has already begun the process of obtaining a design.
Mr. Huggins reviewed the timeline. The application is due on February 16th. The School Committee and Board of Selectmen need to vote and once voted the School Committee Chair, Town Manager and Superintendent will need to sign the SOI. Invitations to participate are anticipated late spring/early summer and if we are invited to participate construction will begin next winter/spring. We anticipate the reimbursement will be approximately 50% of the cost of the project. If we are not invited to participate, Reading will be able to fund the boiler replacement entirely through the Capital Plan.
The School Committee asked clarifying questions.
Mrs. Webb moved,
Resolved: Having convened in an open meeting on February 5, 2018, prior to the SOI submission closing date, the School Committee of Reading, in accordance with its charter, by-laws, and ordinances, has voted to authorize the Superintendent to submit to the Massachusetts School Building Authority the Statement of Interest Form dated February 2, 2018 for the Reading Memorial High School located at 62 Oakland Road, Reading, MA which describes and explains the following deficiencies and the priority category(s) for which an application may be submitted to the Massachusetts School Building Authority in the future Priority 5, Accelerated Repair Program for the replacement of Boiler #2 at the Reading Memorial High School which is approaching the end of its useful life and hereby further specifically acknowledges that by submitting this Statement of Interest Form, the Massachusetts School Building Authority in no way guarantees the acceptance or the approval of an application, the awarding of a grant or any other funding commitment from the Massachusetts School Building Authority, or commits the City/Town/Regional School District to filing an application for funding with the Massachusetts School Building Authority.
The motion was seconded by Mrs. Borawski.
The motion carried 6-0.
III. Routine Matters
a. Bills and Payroll (A)
S1830 1.25.18 $208,124.97 S1831 2.01.18 $119,729.90 P1815 1.26.18 $1,528,473.27
b. Calendar
IV. Information/Correspondence
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V. Future Business
VI. Adjournment
Adjourn
Mrs. Webb moved, seconded by Mrs. Borawski, to adjourn. The motion carried 6-0.
The meeting adjourned at 8:30 p.m.
NOTE: The minutes reflect the order as stated in the posted meeting agenda not the order they occurred during the meeting.
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John F. Doherty, Ed. D. Craig Martin, M.Ed. Superintendent of Schools Assistant Superintendent
82 Oakland Road Carolyn J. Wilson, M.Ed., JD Reading, MA 01867 Director of Student Services Phone: 781-944-5800 Fax: 781-942-9149 Gail Dowd, CPA Director of Finance
Reading Public Schools
Instilling a joy of learning and inspiring the innovative leaders of tomorrow
TO: Reading School Committee
FROM: John F. Doherty, Ed.D. Superintendent of Schools
DATE: February 22, 2018
RE: FY19 Budget – Kindergarten Update
At our meeting on Monday evening I will update the School Committee on the incoming kindergarten enrollment and plans to provide full and half day programs that will provide the best educational experience for these students. I have included a memorandum from Attorney Michael Joyce on half day kindergarten and School Committee Policy JC – Attendance Areas.
If you have any questions, please contact me.
The Reading Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, gender identity, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, age or disability. NUTTALL, MACAVOY & JOYCE, P.C. ATTORNEYS AT LAW MARSHFIELD PROFESSIONAL CENTER 1020 PLAIN STREET, SUITE 270 MARSHFIELD, MASSACHUSETTS 02050 TELEPHONE (781) 837-7428 FACSIMILE (781) 837-7498
THOMAS J. NUTTALL MATTHEW W. MACAVOY MICHAEL J. JOYCE LEIGH W. MELLO KELSEY T. MEAGHER February 16, 2018 Dr. John F. Doherty Superintendent Reading Public Schools 82 Oakland Road Reading, Massachusetts 01867
Via First Class mail and electronic mail at: [email protected]
Re: Half-Day Kindergarten
Dear Superintendent Doherty: I am writing in response to your inquiry regarding the legal obligations of the Reading Public Schools (“District”) to provide half-day and full-day kindergarten at neighborhood schools. Although school districts are required to establish kindergarten programs for students, each school district has broad discretion on how to implement the kindergarten program for students.
Initially, all kindergarten students must receive a minimum of 425 annual hours of structured learning time.1 School districts can offer both full day and half day programs so long as the minimum threshold of the 425 hours is met for all students.2
In this case, the District has made the determination to consolidate, for the 2017-2018 school year, the half-day kindergarten students (approximately 40 students), to two schools, the Joshua Eaton Elementary School and the Killam Elementary School. Upon announcement of this consolidation, a few parents of potentially affected half-day students, raised concerns that some of the students, specifically those students who would no longer be able to attend their neighborhood school (e.g., Barrows Elementary and Wood End Elementary Schools). The half- day kindergarten students will all, however, continue to be assigned to schools within two (2) miles of their homes in a manner consistent with the current overlapping attendance areas.
As part of the proposal, the District has determined that full-day kindergarten students (approximately 277 students), will remain at their neighborhood schools. The concern raised
1 603 C.M.R. § 8.00, et al.; 603 CMR § 27.03(5). 2 Time Learning Detailed Q & A, Questions 31 through 34, available at: http://www.doe.mass.edu/lawsregs/603cmr27_guide.html#kind 1
NUTTALL, MACAVOY & JOYCE, P.C. ATTORNEYS AT LAW by families is that because the full-day kindergarten is fee-based, the assignment of half-day kindergarten students to different schools discriminates against those students based on their willingness or ability to pay. Initially, there is no merit to any allegation that the policy of assignment of half-day kindergarten students discriminates against individuals based on families’ ability to pay. The Reading Public Schools offers both free and reduced tuition options for full day kindergarten based on the established federal poverty guidelines. More significantly, although the free and reduced full kindergarten rate for eligible students reflects our continued commitment to serving all of our students, an individual family’s decision to pay or not to pay for supplementary services, is not a protected status under the law. That is, the District, when providing supplementary services, which it is not required by law to provide (i.e., full-day kindergarten), is free to charge tuition for those services and to not provide those services to those individuals who are not willing to, or choose not to, pay for them. Finally, the reason for the different school assignment for half-day and full-day kindergarten services was to: a) ensure continuity of instruction within the separate programs; and 2) the significantly lower enrollment number of half-day kindergarten students necessitates consolidation of those students into fewer schools to maintain appropriate class sizes and staffing ratios consistent with student enrollment while still maintaining high quality instruction for all kindergarten students.
An additional concern raised by parents was that this decision was not made in a manner consistent with School Committee Policy, JC, which addresses attendance areas. More specifically, some individuals raised the concern that by consolidating the half-day students to Joshua Eaton and Killam Elementary School, the Superintendent and School Committee had redrawn the attendance areas. The attendance areas have remained unchanged, however, and the assignment of half-day kindergarten students to Joshua Eaton and Killam Elementary Schools is within the preexisting attendance areas. In 2010-2011, the School Committee, in compliance with Policy JC, created attendance areas with overlay assignments, which provide the option of assignment of students to any elementary school within two (2) miles of a students’ home. In this case, because all half-day kindergarten students will remain within the two (2) miles radius of their homes, the assignment of half-day kindergarten students to Joshua Eaton Elementary School and Killam Elementary School is within the pre-existing attendance areas established by the school committee.
Please let me know if you have any questions or concerns or would like further information regarding this issue.
Sincerely,
/s/ Michael J. Joyce
Michael J. Joyce, Esq,
2
File: JC
ATTENDANCE AREAS
Attendance areas for the various schools of the town will be drawn up by the Superintendent and approved by the School Committee. The primary considerations that govern the establishment of a school attendance area are school capacity and transportation considerations. Generally, students will attend the school in the attendance area in which they live.
In establishing an attendance area, the following general guidelines will also be applied:
1. Use of safe walking conditions consistent with the Committee's transportation policies; where possible, major traffic thoroughfares and natural barriers will be used for boundaries.
2. Honoring community of interest; where possible, school attendance zones will incorporate community patterns.
From time to time an overcrowded condition in an existing school, the development of new residential areas, or the opening of a new school may require the establishment or change of previously established school attendance areas.
The Committee will confer with community representatives prior to setting new attendance lines. However, the Committee's primary basis for judgment must be equality of educational opportunity for all students rather than the personal desires of any one group.
The Superintendent is authorized to make exceptions to attendance lines for individual children in the best interests of the student and/or the school.
Adopted by the Reading School Committee on March 26, 2007
LEGAL REFS.: M.G.L. 71:37C; 71:37D; 71:37I; 71:37J Board of Education Regulations Pertaining to Section 8 of Chapter 636 of the Acts of 1974, Regarding Magnet School Facilities and Magnet Educational Programs, adopted 2/25/75 Board of Education Regulations Pursuant to Chapter 636 of the Acts of 1974, adopted 9/10/74 Board of Education Regulations Pertaining to the Preparation of Racial Balance Plans which Involve Redistricting, adopted 4/24/73
Reading Public Schools John F. Doherty, Ed. D. Craig Martin, M.Ed. Superintendent of Schools Assistant Superintendent
82 Oakland Road Carolyn J. Wilson, M.Ed., JD Reading, MA 01867 Director of Student Services Phone: 781-944-5800 Fax: 781-942-9149 Gail Dowd, CPA Director of Finance
Reading Public Schools
Instilling a joy of learning and inspiring the innovative leaders of tomorrow
TO: Reading School Committee
FROM: John F. Doherty, Ed.D. Superintendent of Schools
DATE: February 22, 2017
TOPIC: Joshua Eaton School Improvement Update
At our meeting Monday night, Joshua Eaton principal LisaMarie Ippolito will update the School Committee on the progress made at Joshua Eaton over the last several months. I have included the powerpoint presentation for your information.
If you have any questions, please contact me.
The Reading Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, gender identity, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, age or disability.
2/22/2018
Joshua Eaton School Committee Meeting
FEBRUARY 26, 2018
School Improvement Goal #1 ‐ Literacy: Continue to improve student performance in English Language Arts as we move towards full adoption of the Readers and Writers Workshop model.
Administer a staff survey to inventory the Reading and Writing Workshop material each teacher has within their classroom (General/Special Education) Provide access to new Units of Study in Reading by Lucy Calkins to all teaching staff and offer opportunities to unpack and become familiar with units Continue to plan and design standards‐based units of instruction in Balanced Literacy to meet the needs of all children Implement and assess students’ writing using Units of Study by Lucy Calkins according to an assessment calendar (Narrative, Opinion, Informational Writing) Utilize the Fountas and Pinnell Benchmark Assessment to track student progress three times a year. (Fall, Winter, Spring)
Review and identify 2017 MA ELA Literacy standard for each grade level K‐5 to align with Calkin’s units of study. Teachers will implement Literacy Intervention Blocks targeting specific skills based on individual student needs.
Each teacher creates a goal to improve student literacy as part of their educator evaluation plan.
Utilize the Mystic Valley Elders Service Adult readers in grades K‐2 to support student reading Professional Development for grades K‐5 in Readers/Writer’s Workshop. Report out to teacher’s historical data (BAS, Writing Responses) and continue to collect data throughout the school year.
1 2/22/2018
Fountas and Pinnell Benchmark Assessment System
% of Students Meeting Expectations Grade Levels (on or above grade level) Spring 2017 Fall 2017 Winter 2018 Kindergarten 59% Grade 1 40% 67% 78% Grade 2 51% 63% 82% Grade 3 66% 61% 62% Grade 4 31% 47% 56% Grade 5 69% 63% 68%
Topic Areas - Fall Winter Early Reading Kindergarten 2017 2018 Inventory ‐ % of students passing
Kindergarten Concepts About Print 24% 88%
Upper Letter Identification 57% 95%
Upper Letter Sounds 17% 88%
Lower Letter Identification 38% 91%
Lower Letter Sounds 17% 84%
HRSW n/a 29%
Initial Sounds Matching 66% 98%
Initial Sounds Oral 69% 95%
Blending Words 26% 59%
Segmenting 10% 62%
Rhyming 79% 100%
2 2/22/2018
Fall Winter Topic Areas - Grade 1 Early 2017 2018
Reading % of students passing Inventory – Concepts About Print 100%
Grade 1 Upper Letter Identification 98% 100%
Upper Letter Sounds 90% 100%
Lower Letter Identification 95% 100%
Lower Letter Sounds 90% 100%
HRSW 34% 90%
Initial Sounds Matching 100%
Initial Sounds Oral 100%
Blending Words 98% 100%
Segmenting 95% 100%
Rhyming 95% 100%
Lexia Core 5 Data –Grades K, 1 and Special Education
3 2/22/2018
Text Characteristic Staff Handbook
• Whole staff involvement • F&P Text levels analysis; Literacy Continuum, Online resources • Vertical alignment • Visual examples • Parent resources • Tiered Intervention resource
School Improvement Goal #2 ‐ Improve Communication among students, parents, staff and community, through increased communication to focus on learning and facilitate more effective instruction and accountability. • Utilize and keep up to date the school website to communicate school policies, procedure, events and school news.
Offer families resources and activities that support student academic and social/emotional success through the school website, Jaguar Tracks, Facebook and Twitter.
Promote positive news about Joshua Eaton through community media. (Pathways Newsletter, Reading Newspaper) Support families to improve overall awareness and understanding of school policies, procedures, and pertinent issues through a monthly parent forum face to face. Ex. Parent Cafe Provide staff training on the use of Portal Plus to support family communication.
Follow the outlined Communication Plan and make sure families are aware for the policy by posting it on the school website.
4 2/22/2018
Jaguar Tracks
Team Effort with Joshua Eaton’s PTO
School News
5 2/22/2018
Parent Cafe
September –Welcome Back October –F&P Assessments November –Dr. Doherty, Budget December – Title One January – February –Incoming Kindergartens March –MCAS Administration
School Improvement Goal #3 ‐ 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.
Improve students’ attendance through positive relationships, community building activities, family engagement, and student support
Research trends within school, as well as, compare to state rates and trends with the intent to keep current data that pinpoints areas in need of focus Implement student recognition programs that acknowledge students with positive attendance rates. Create and implement a system to outreach and provide remediation to students and families who demonstrate high rates of absenteeism. Using school based data to target students who demonstrate high rates of attendance concerns (absenteeism & tardiness) Provide weekly attendance rate percentage to families with goal to maintain 98% or above. Attend Professional Development and seek outside resources to support strategies for students to attend school.
6 2/22/2018
Attendance Data
Student Involvement
Student Council • Created skits • Performed at all School Assembly • School‐Wide Poster Activity
7 2/22/2018
Attendance
• Building Leadership Team Data Dive • School Advisory Council • Tracks • Letters home to families with 5+ absences • Phone call with families
Spread the Great Work!
8 2/22/2018
WHOLE CHILD
• Family Fitness Night • Community Service • Spelling Bee • STEAM Assembly • Read‐a‐Thon • Field Trips • Incoming Kindergarten Presentation • Enrichment • Open Circle and Zone of Regulation • Author Visit • Regular Assemblies • Understanding Disabilities • Veteran’s Day Assembly • PTO Events • Halloween Howl • Jaguar Jog • Ice Cream Social • Before School Night Visit • Book Fair • Back to School Picnic
Thank you!
9
John F. Doherty, Ed. D. Craig Martin, M.Ed. Superintendent of Schools Assistant Superintendent
82 Oakland Road Carolyn J. Wilson, M.Ed., JD Reading, MA 01867 Director of Student Services Phone: 781-944-5800 Fax: 781-942-9149 Gail Dowd, CPA Director of Finance
Reading Public Schools
Instilling a joy of learning and inspiring the innovative leaders of tomorrow
TO: Reading School Committee
FROM: John F. Doherty, Ed.D. Superintendent of Schools
DATE: February 22, 2018
RE: Quarterly Personnel Update.
Please find attached for your information a copy of the quarterly personnel report from Human Resources Director Jenn Bove. Ms. Bove will review the report at our meeting on Monday evening.
If you have any questions, please contact me.
The Reading Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, gender identity, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, age or disability.
John F. Doherty, Ed. D. Craig Martin, M.Ed. Superintendent of Schools Assistant Superintendent
Carolyn J. Wilson, M.Ed., JD 82 Oakland Road Director of Student Services Reading, MA 01867 Phone: 781-944-5800 Gail Dowd, CPA Fax: 781-942-9149 Director of Finance
Reading Public Schools
Instilling a joy of learning and inspiring the innovative leaders of tomorrow
MEMORANDUM
TO: John Doherty FROM: Jennifer Bove DATE: February 26, 2018 RE: Personnel Quarterly Report-2nd Quarter FY 18
This is a summary of the FY 18 2nd quarter personnel report for the 2017-2018 school year. The 2nd quarter personnel report is inclusive of all relevant personnel actions between the dates of December 5, 2018 through, February 26, 2018.
As shown in Table 1 below the Reading Public Schools has hired 5 new professional employees. In this context professional employees include Teachers, Administrators, Paraeducators, Custodial Workers, and Secretaries. This does not include Cafeteria Workers, Daily Substitutes, Long-term Substitutes, Coaches and Extended Day Staff.
Please use this key to help define how FTE’s for each position type are calculated:
FTE Calculations 1.0FTE Paraeducator works 70 hours biweekly 1.0FTE Secretary works 75 hours biweekly 1.0FTE Custodian works 80 hours biweekly 1.0FTE Teacher works 70 hours biweekly
Table 1: Newly Hired Professional Employees
Last Name First Name DOH Position FTE School Replacing Hartley Nicole 1/2/2018 Special Education Program Paraeducator 0.78 RISE New Bodin Jennifer 2/5/2018 Special Education Program Paraeducator 0.78 RISE New Rao Sulekha 2/12/2018 Regular Education Tutor Paraeducator 0.52 Birch Lisa Looby Haley Megan 2/14/2018 Special Education Program Paraeducator 0.86 Coolidge Karen Hammond Morley James 2/26/2018 Night Shift Custodian 1.0 Wood End Angela Serrano
The Reading Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, gender identity, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, age or disability.
The table below represents all budgeted positions for which a vacancy occurred to date in FY 18:
Table 2: FY18 Budgeted Positions
Position FTE School Regular Education Tutor Paraeducator 0.52 Birch Special Education Program Paraeducator 0.86 Coolidge Night Shift Custodian 1.0 Wood End
For our new positions or additions to staff for which a vacancy was created please see the table below:
Table 3: FY18 New Positions (add to staff)
Position FTE School Special Education Program Paraeducator 0.78 RISE Special Education Program Paraeducator 0.78 RISE
The table below outlines our current open job requisitions:
Table 4: FY18 Current Open Job Requisitions
Position FTE School Special Education Program Paraeducator 0.78 RISE Special Education Therapeutic Support Program Teacher 1.0 RMHS
Table 5: Teacher Separation
Reason for Separation Teachers %Teachers Resignation-Relocation 1 100%
The Reading Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, gender identity, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, age or disability.
John F. Doherty, Ed. D. Craig Martin, M.Ed. Superintendent of Schools Assistant Superintendent
Carolyn J. Wilson, M.Ed., JD 82 Oakland Road Director of Student Services Reading, MA 01867 Phone: 781-944-5800 Gail Dowd, CPA Fax: 781-942-9149 Director of Finance
Reading Public Schools
Instilling a joy of learning and inspiring the innovative leaders of tomorrow
MEMORANDUM
TO: Reading School Committee
FROM: Gail Dowd
CC: John Doherty
DATE: February 23, 2018
RE: FY’18 Second Quarter Budget Update
At the Reading School Committee meeting on Monday, February 26, 2018, we will provide the Committee with an update on the Fiscal 2018 Budget. The table below reflects that we currently have an unencumbered balance of $166,515 in the School Department Budget which represents approximately 0.4% of the Fiscal 2018 Budget.
FY18 Budget Projection As of February 9, 2018
FY'18 Adopted FY'18 Revised Expended Encumbered Remaining Projected Under Budget Budget Budget as of as of Balance Remaining (Over) 9-Feb-18 Transfers (1) 9-Feb-18 9-Feb-18 9-Feb-18 9-Feb-18 Expense Budget $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $
Administration 926,857 50,000 976,857 568,614 6,500 351,744 390,419 11,325
Regular Day 24,957,436 (320,000) 24,637,436 11,892,748 290,732 12,773,955 12,136,398 317,557
Special Education 12,546,594 270,000 12,816,594 6,651,124 1,516,260 4,379,210 4,854,917 (205,708)
District Wide: Health Services 658,484 - 658,484 308,917 8,906 340,661 310,701 29,960 Extra Curricular 55,035 - 55,035 61,915 6,266 (13,146) (10,661) (2,485) Athletics 562,691 - 562,691 384,551 77,018 101,121 99,936 1,185 Technology 469,565 - 469,565 304,212 5,091 160,261 160,097 164 Subtotal - District Wide 1,745,774 - 1,745,774 1,059,596 97,281 588,897 560,074 28,823
School Building Maintenance 1,225,000 - 1,225,000 797,836 99,259 327,905 313,388 14,517
TOTAL $ 41,401,661 $ - $ 41,401,661 $ 20,969,918 $ 2,010,032 $ 18,421,711 $ 18,255,196 $ 166,515
(1) Represents Budget Transfers Approved by School Committee on December 11, 2017.
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The following two tables summarize the surplus/(deficit) by Expense Category and Cost Center and are followed by detailed explanations.
Summary by Expense Category:
Surplus/ (Deficit) ($) Expense Category Explanation Reflects salary savings across all five cost centers resulting from salary differences in turnover, retirements, timing of when positions are filled during the year and the timing of unpaid leaves of absence. Also included is the impact of increased program staffing for Special Education. Salary savings district wide 469,434
Deficit reflects an increase in out-of-district tuition and the associated out- of-district transportation due to an increase in student placements, changes in student placements to more restrictive environments and increased legal services and home hospital/tutoring services. Special Education (non-salary) (235,802)
Summary of expense changes across all cost centers and reflects the restoration of the district wide technology budget funding originally removed from the budget as well as the addition of $10,000 to replace classroom emergency backpacks and supplies as part of our safety plans. Other Expense Accounts (67,117) Total 166,515
Variance Surplus to Total (Deficit) Budget Cost Center ($) (%) Explanation
Surplus represents cost savings from additional help in the business office that Administration 11,325 - has not yet been filled.
Surplus reflects salary savings across all eight schools related to staff turnover, retirements, timing of when positions were filled during the year and the impact of unpaid leaves of absence offset by increased transportation costs associated with adding an additional bus not in the original budget and an increase in homeless transportation. The projection includes restoring the substitute teacher funding and district-wide technology replenishment to original budget levels. Also reflected is a placeholder of $10,000 for class- Regular Day 317,557 0.8 room safety backpack replacements and supplies as part of our safety plans.
Deficit reflects an increase in out of district tuition and the associated out-of- district transportation costs related to an increase in student placements, changes in student placements to more restrictive environments and increased legal services, home hospital/tutoring services. Also reflected is the impact of Special Education (205,708) (0.5) increased program staffing.
Surplus reflects salary savings from staff turnover as well as anticipated District Wide 28,823 0.1 expense savings on license and maintenance renewals.
Facilities 14,517 - Surplus reflects net salary savings. Total 166,515 0.4
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The projected Administration Cost Center surplus of $11,325 reflects savings from the anticipated additional hours (internal and external) for additional support to assist the Director of Finance and the business office.
The projected Regular Day Cost Center surplus of $317,557 is due to salary savings spread across all eight schools associated with staff turnover, retirements, timing differences of when positions were filled during the year, as well as the impact of unpaid leaves of absence. The salary savings are offset by an increase in transportation reflecting the addition of a non-mandated bus as well as an increase in homeless transportation (mandated). The projection also reflects restoring the district-wide instructional technology funding and the substitute teacher funding that were removed from the final FY18 budget. Also included within the current projection is funding to replace classroom emergency backpacks and safety supplies as part of our safety plans. These amounts will continue to be monitored throughout the fiscal year.
The Special Education Cost Center is projected to have a deficit of $205,708. The deficit reflects a change in out- of- district placements and associated transportation of $169,611. In addition, the projected deficit reflects costs associated with consultation services, legal services and home hospital/tutoring services. The Special Education Cost Center also reflects additional staffing at RISE related to the new sub-separate classroom and the need for an additional paraprofessional, Birch Meadow tied to a required 1:1 paraeducator and additional Killam staffing for the TSP program for 45-day extended evaluations being performed at Killam rather than being out-sourced.
The District Wide Programs Cost Center (comprised of Health Services, Extra Curricular, Athletics and Technology) is currently projected to have a surplus of $28,823 which is the result of salary savings due to staff turnover.
The School Building Maintenance (Facilities) Cost Center is currently projected to have a surplus of $14,517 which is the result of salary savings from staff turnover and unpaid leaves of absence and the removal of the custodial longevity from the contract which was finalized after the budget was approved.
Transfer Request
We are requesting the School Committee vote to authorize the following cost center transfers to cover the projected deficits which will continue to be monitored throughout the year: • Transfer $225,000 to the Special Education Cost Center from the Regular Day Cost Center.
Salary savings from staff turnover, unfilled positions, and staff extending leaves of absence in the Regular Education Cost Centers will be used to fund these transfer requests.
We will be prepared to discuss these requests in greater detail at Monday’s meeting and answer any questions you may have. Please feel free to contact me if you have specific questions you would like addressed or if you need additional information.
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John F. Doherty, Ed. D. Craig Martin, M.Ed. Superintendent of Schools Assistant Superintendent
Carolyn J. Wilson, M.Ed., JD 82 Oakland Road Director of Student Services Reading, MA 01867 Phone: 781-944-5800 Gail Dowd, CPA Fax: 781-942-9149 Director of Finance
Reading Public Schools
Instilling a joy of learning and inspiring the innovative leaders of tomorrow
TO: Reading School Committee
FROM: John F. Doherty, Ed.D. Superintendent of Schools
DATE: February 22, 2018
TOPIC: Assistant Superintendent for Learning and Teaching Search Process
Recently, Assistant Superintendent for Learning and Teaching, Craig Martin announced his resignation from the Reading Public Schools, effective March 23, 2018. Craig indicated to me last August that this would be his last year in the Reading Public Schools so that he could pursue new opportunities. Craig has invested over 21 years to our school district and the children of the Reading Public Schools and it is with mixed emotions that I have accepted his resignation. His passion for doing what is best for students and the relationships he has developed with staff over the years will have an impact on this school district for many years to come.
It is not my intent at this time to fill the vacancy for the remainder of the school year. Over the upcoming weeks, Craig, our District Leadership Team, and I will continue to work together to ensure a smooth transition of all professional development activities as well as Craig’s other responsibilities until the end of the school year. I want to assure you that our priority will be to continue to support our staff to provide the best learning opportunities for our students as we close the achievement gap. Although we will not fill the position for the remainder of the school year, we will immediately begin the search process for a new Assistant Superintendent for Learning and Teaching, who will begin on or after July 1, 2018. The timeline for the search process is attached.
I have attached, for your information, Mr. Martin’s letter to the staff and community regarding his resignation. Please join me in wishing Craig Martin the best of luck in his future endeavors.
The Reading Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, gender identity, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, age or disability.
Craig Martin Letter to School Community
Dear Reading Public School Community,
After over twenty years in the Reading Public Schools, it is with mixed emotions that I am writing to inform you that I have resigned from my position as Assistant Superintendent of the Reading Public Schools. I submitted a letter to Dr. Doherty last August, and my last day will be at the end of March. While this has been a difficult decision, it feels like the right time to pursue other opportunities available to me.
Most importantly, as both an educator and a Reading resident, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to both staff and the community for the privilege of serving this school system for so many years. To the administrators and staff, I am so very proud to be your colleague and I want to thank you for being such an integral part of my own development as an educator. And to students and community members, I could never thank you enough for all that I have learned and for all the opportunities I have been afforded over the years. Being a part of the Reading Public Schools has been such an honor and the highlight of my professional career. I will be forever grateful.
I am especially heartened recently to see our staff and community coming together to address challenges and to create a renewed vision for the future of our schools. With such collaboration, I believe the future of this community is bright. My goal as an educator has always been to harness the collective strengths of students, staff, and community in order to provide the very best for our students. As I look ahead, while I am excited about future ventures, it will of course remain my goal to always support this community and our schools—but perhaps in new capacities. I look forward to those opportunities, and I will always treasure my years as part of this very special school community.
Best always,
Craig
The Reading Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, gender identity, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, age or disability.
Reading Public Schools Screening Committee Assistant Superintendent
Please note: All information and discussions by screening committee members are confidential and cannot be shared during the process or after the process is complete.
I. Screening Committee Members a. The Screening Committee will consist of the following members: • Jennifer Bove, Human Resources Administrator-Facilitator • Gail Dowd, Director of Finance • Heather Leonard, Barrows Principal • Administrator • Teacher • Teacher • Teacher • Parent • Parent • Parent
b. To the extent possible, the composition of the committee will represent the many constituencies that comprise the Reading Public School Community. c. Superintendent will attend all interviews and deliberations as part of the decision making process.
II. Schedule All dates, times and locations are tentative and may change during the process.
Date Time Event Location February 23 Online Posting for Position Online TalentEd/School Spring/MASPA/ Monster.com February 26 7:00 p.m. School Committee Review of School Committee Timeline/Process Conference Room March 5 4:00 p.m. Organizational Meeting School Committee Conference Room March 12 4:30 p.m. Meeting to Design Questions School Committee Conference Room March 14 Deadline for Applications March 19 7:30 a.m.-5:00 1st Round Candidate Interviews School Committee p.m. Conference Room March 19-March 27 • Vetting Process • Superintendent Interviews March 28 6:00 p.m. Superintendent Recommendation TBD to School Committee and School Committee Vote
READING PUBLIC SCHOOLS READING, MASSACHUSETTS
Position: Assistant Superintendent of Learning and Teaching Department: District-wide Reports to: Superintendent FLSA Classification: Exempt Approved by: John F. Doherty, Ed.D. Revision Date: February 2018
SUMMARY: Assists the Superintendent in the duties of providing leadership in developing, achieving, and maintaining the best possible educational programs and services. Responsible for administration of district curriculum, instruction and assessment. Works collaboratively with the Director of Finance, Director of Student Services, Human Resources Administrator, Building Principals, and any district or level curriculum leadership. Responsible for grants administration with State and Federal Programs.
The assistant superintendent for learning and teaching is a significant position in leading improvement initiatives throughout the district. Their major role functions include: creating and commuting a vision for change; building the capacity of others; promoting collaboration; coordinating initiatives; and building and maintaining relationships throughout the district. Assistant superintendents must spend considerable time interacting with the environment to understand the impact of their efforts on instructional improvement and student achievement. They work within the cultural context of their districts and must be attuned to the needs within the building culture. The curriculum leaders carefully negotiate their roles with building principals; thus, they must strike a careful balance between accountability and autonomy as they collaborate with principals to implement new initiatives.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: The essential functions or duties listed below are illustrations of the type of work that is performed and is not an exhaustive list of the duties performed for by this position. Other duties may be assigned. • Guides development, implementation and evaluation of curriculum and instructional services. • Keeps abreast of developments in curriculum and instruction and furnishes leadership in determining their appropriateness for inclusion in the district educational programs. • Studies and evaluates, and, as appropriate, recommends adoption of new instructional materials, methods, and programs, and assists in budget preparation for newly approved instructional programs as related to instructional supplies, equipment and materials. • Prepares and monitors federal and state grants and those from other sources. • Guides development, implementation and evaluation of pre-service and in-service training programs for professional personnel. • Works with principals, department heads and teacher committees in organizing and coordinating grade level and departmental meetings, in order to affect horizontal and vertical continuity and articulation of the instructional program throughout the district.
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• Provides staff leadership to ensure understanding of and promote the educational objectives of the district and assists in planning programs of in-service educational activities for instructional personnel. • Supervises directly the work of all district wide curriculum and instructional staff, METCO Coordinator, English Language Learner Coordinator, Adult and Community Education Director and those staff not on permanent assignment to a single school building. • Interprets the programs, philosophy and policies to the district staff, students and the community at large. • Serves upon assignment by the Superintendent in general administrative areas. • Attends School Committee meetings and prepares such reports for the Committee as the Superintendent may request. • Assists in the development of educational specifications for remodeling projects or new construction. • Communicates to the Superintendent the requirements and needs of the district as perceived by staff members. • Maintains liaison with social, professional, civic, volunteer and other community agencies and groups having an interest in the schools. • Works cooperatively with the Superintendent and Director of Finance regarding budget recommendations to the School Committee. • Performs such other tasks and assumes such other responsibilities as the Superintendent may assign. • Assists with supervision and evaluation of instructional staff. • Oversees the District-wide Teacher Induction Program. • Manages administrative employees that are directly involved with curriculum, instruction, assessment, and technology. Is responsible for the overall direction, coordination, and evaluation of this unit.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES: Manages administrative employees that are directly involved with curriculum, instruction, assessment, and technology. Is responsible for the overall direction, coordination, and evaluation of this unit. Carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the organization’s policies and applicable laws. Responsibilities include interviewing, hiring, and training employees; planning, assigning, and directing work; appraising performance; rewarding and disciplining employees; addressing complaints and resolving problems.
QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skills, and/or abilities required. The Superintendent may waive or modify the qualification requirements.
REQURIED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES • Ability to write reports, business correspondence and procedure manuals • Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from groups including staff, parents and the general public
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• Ability to apply knowledge of current research and theory in a specific field • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with students, staff and the community • Ability to communicate clearly and concisely in both oral and written form • Strong organization, analytical and technology skills • Broad working knowledge of child development, social emotional learning, learning theory, curriculum research, testing and measurement, data analysis, strategic planning and personnel practices • Effective interpersonal and leadership skills; experience facilitating group decision-making and communication among divergent groups • Broad experience in developing and implementing in-service and staff development programs and supervising curriculum and instruction program leaders • Experience in creating and supporting blended learning environments • Effective administrative and management skills, including demonstrated success as a curriculum developer
EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE: • Master’s Degree, five years’ teaching experience, preferably from more than one level. • Doctoral degree preferred, or evidence of working toward a doctoral degree. • Experience as a district or school administrator preferred.
LICENSES/CERTIFICATIONS: • Must possess valid Massachusetts Superintendent/Assistant Superintendent certification or the ability to become certified.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS: Must be able to remain in a stationary position for the majority of the work day. Must be able to occasionally move about inside the office to access file cabinets, office machinery, etc. Constantly operates a computer and other office productivity machinery (i.e., a calculator, copy machine, and computer printer). Must be able to communicate with other intra-company personnel. The employee must frequently use hands to finger, handle, or feel; and use hand strength to grasp tools. The employee will occasionally frequently bend or twist at the neck and trunk while performing the duties of this job. The employee must be able to communicate effectively with other staff members in person and on the telephone. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.
WORK ENVIRONMENT: The noise level in this environment is usually quiet to loud, depending on location in building. The employee must be able to work safely and efficiently in public areas. The employee interacts with other staff members, students, and the public. The employee will be required to occasionally work outside of normal workdays and office hours.
The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable
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accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. This job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee, and is subject to change by the employer, as the needs of the employer and the requirements of the job change.
4 John F. Doherty, Ed. D. Craig Martin, M.Ed. Superintendent of Schools Assistant Superintendent
82 Oakland Road Carolyn J. Wilson, M.Ed., JD Reading, MA 01867 Director of Student Services Phone: 781-944-5800 Fax: 781-942-9149 Gail Dowd, CPA Director of Finance
Reading Public Schools
Instilling a joy of learning and inspiring the innovative leaders of tomorrow
TO: Reading School Committee
FROM: John F. Doherty, Ed.D. Superintendent of Schools
DATE: February 22, 2018
TOPIC: Override Ballot Question
At our meeting on Monday night I will ask the School Committee to support the proposed override ballot question below:
Shall the Town of Reading be allowed to assess an additional $4.15 million in real estate and personal property taxes for the purposes of the general operation of the Public Schools for Classroom Teachers ($1,802,484), Teaching, Learning and Classroom Support ($821,429), and Athletics ($31,056); for 5 Police Officers and 4 Firefighter/paramedics ($1,050,311); for General Government including Public Works, Finance, Technology, Human/Elder Services and inspections ($317,391); and for increased hours and staffing for the Public Library ($127,329) for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2018?”
If you have any questions, please contact me
The Reading Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, gender identity, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, age or disability.
John F. Doherty, Ed. D. Craig Martin, M.Ed. Superintendent of Schools Assistant Superintendent
82 Oakland Road Carolyn J. Wilson, M.Ed., JD Reading, MA 01867 Director of Student Services Phone: 781-944-5800 Fax: 781-942-9149 Gail Dowd, CPA Director of Finance
Reading Public Schools
Instilling a joy of learning and inspiring the innovative leaders of tomorrow
TO: Reading School Committee
FROM: John F. Doherty, Ed.D. Superintendent of Schools
DATE: February 22, 2018
TOPIC: Email Correspondence from the Community
Please find attached for your information, copies of email correspondence received by School Committee members and Central Office Administrators from community members. I have included our responses as well.
If you have any questions, please contact me.
The Reading Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, gender identity, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, age or disability. -----Original Message----- From: Dowd, Gail Sent: Thursday, February 08, 2018 10:00 AM To: 'Rebecca Liberman'
Good Morning Mrs. Lieberman
At the June 19th School Committee Meeting, the Committee approved transfers totaling $218,414 out of the Regular Education Cost Center to Athletics ($124,134), Extra-Curricular ($48,080) and Facilities ($46,200). As discussed during the January 2017 budget discussions the revolving accounts were being monitored and it was anticipated that we would need to revisit and potentially decrease the amounts of the offsets. We utilized salary savings and expense savings to fund the transfers out of Regular Education to the above cost centers. The decrease in the offsets, which were also approved as part of that meeting, are encompassed within the transfer amounts and are not additive to the above figures.
Please let me know if I can provide any further clarification.
Thank you Gail
Gail S. Dowd Director of Finance and Operations Reading Public Schools 82 Oakland Road Reading, MA 01867 Phone: 781-670-2880 Fax: 781-942-9149 [email protected]
Please note the Massachusetts Secretary of State's office has determined that most emails to and from municipal offices and officials are public records. For more information please refer to: http://www.sec.state.ma.us/pre/preidx.htm.
-----Original Message----- From: Rebecca Liberman [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Wednesday, February 07, 2018 10:25 PM To: [email protected]; Doherty, John
Dear Dr. Doherty, Ms. Dowd, Finance Committee Members and School Committee Members,
At tonight's Finance Committee meeting, I mentioned that $415,000 was transferred out of the regular education cost center at a School Committee meeting last June, most of which went for athletics. Please note that I had originally posted a figure of $450,000, which was wrong, but that I posted a correction as soon as I realized the error.
This number came from the minutes of the June 19 meeting on page 5, and it does indeed sum to roughly $415,000, most of which went to athletics. This sum is a combination of direct transfers of $124,134 to the cost center for athletics, $48,080 to the extracurricular cost center, and $46,000 to the maintenance cost center, plus the reduction of offsets from the extracurricular account ($27,000), from the athletics account ($96,000) and from school property ($75,000).
As I said at the meeting, I feel that in light of the tight budget and proposed teacher layoffs, I am disappointed that so much money was transferred away from the regular education budget.
If I am misunderstanding something, please correct me, but if not, can you please explain why we had sufficient funds in regular education in June to be able to transfer money out of that cost center, but that 6 months later we don't have the funds to keep foreign language teachers at the middle school? I had been told that the cost to keep the teachers and middle school curriculum was $450,000 last year, which isn't much more than the amount transferred out of the regular education budget on June 19. If that money had been returned to the town, then perhaps the Finance Committee would be more willing to provide some free cash to keep the teachers for just a little bit more money in order to save the teachers until a longer-term solution could be found.
I continue to hope that the school administration, the Finance Committee and the School Committee will work together find a way to save these teachers and these programs. I understand that an override is needed, but that is no reason not to try to save the experienced teachers and the successful middle school language program that we have now in the meantime. And what if the override doesn't pass? I strongly believe that the balanced budget the School Committee approved hurts the override cause. Many respondents to the override survey expressed concerns about how our money is being spent, and to prioritize athletics over teachers will not alleviate those concerns. Yes, athletics are important, but they only affect some students, and the loss of foreign language and English instruction hurts ALL students, so if tough choices must be made, I think it is clear that teachers must be the priority. This balanced budget is already having a negative impact, with teachers and students planning to leave the district, but if we act now to save these teachers and programs, perhaps we could minimize the damage, as well as improve the chances that the override will pass.
I would appreciate hearing back from you on this, because I am genuinely mystified that teacher positions are being cut before nonessential spending, such as for athletics and extracurriculars. And I sincerely hope you will hold another meeting to discuss proposals to save these teachers and these programs, including Nick Boivin's proposal put forth on January 22nd. I continue to believe that where there is a will there is a way.
Thank you, and I look forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely,
Rebecca Liberman
50 Pratt St.
-----Original Message----- From: Elaine Webb [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Friday, February 09, 2018 7:06 AM To: Rebecca Liberman
Mrs. Liberman,
The School Committee (SC) has completed its discussion and approval of the FY19 Budget. The SC and the Administration are now focused on leading and operating our school district to achieve the best teaching and learning environment and outcomes for each and every one of our students. The School Committee is fully committed to working toward a successful override which, as we have said since January of 2016 is absolutely essential to deliver the high-quality education our students deserve and our community expects. The Administration will not be taking any further action on the School Committee approved FY19 budget as there is no new information for us to consider.
Elaine L. Webb Vice-Chair Reading School Committee
Elaine L. Webb 309 Pearl Street Reading MA 01867 (781) 307-1226
> On Feb 8, 2018, at 4:57 PM, Rebecca Liberman
From: Doherty, John Sent: Friday, February 09, 2018 5:49 AM To: Meghan Shinn <[email protected]> Cc: Robinson, Charles
Good Morning, Meghan,
Thank you for the email. We appreciate your feedback and input. I agree, it is a difficult situation that has been highlighted this year by a larger kindergarten class and limited classroom space at each elementary school.
Please contact us with any further questions.
Thanks and take care.
John F. Doherty, Ed.D. Superintendent Reading Public Schools 781-944-5800 [email protected]
From: Meghan Shinn [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Wednesday, February 07, 2018 7:36 PM To: Robinson, Charles
Dear School Committee members and Dr. Doherty,
I am writing to express my concern over the new practice of confining half-day kindergarten students to just two schools. I understand that this was an administrative decision that did not require a public discussion, but I feel compelled to speak up.
I know that full-day kindergarten is the more popular avenue among parents, and that the small number of half-day students presents a placement challenge, particularly if you wish to avoid the integrated classrooms that have been in use at some schools for several years. However, I do not agree that a set of different placement rules and locations for half-day children is a good policy, and I will tell you why:
People talk about parents “choosing” the half-day program, but for some it’s really not a choice—some feel priced out of full day. Please recognize that there’s a slice of the population that doesn’t qualify for aid, yet finds the tuition too much of a stretch for the family budget. It only adds insult to injury to effectively close certain schools to these families—schools that would likely (or surely, if they have older siblings) be their assignment if they were paying tuition.
According to StrategiesForChildren.org, of the 317 Massachusetts school districts that offer full-day kindergarten, 56 charge tuition. Among these, Reading has the fourth highest fee (falling short of third place by $50). Reading’s tuition, $4,450, is about $1,000 higher than the average, $3,461. I appreciate that Reading parents are paying a high price for full-day kindergarten, that they want to get the most for their money, and that there has been pushback against integrated classrooms to that end. Totally understandable. On the other hand, I feel strongly that non-paying children should not be asked to step aside for paying children in a public-school setting.
Although this decision required no discussion, I think the enrollment numbers highlight a need for a conversation about the future of tuition-based kindergarten in Reading. I am curious if there is any long- range plan for changing the kindergarten structure in light of the dwindling numbers of half-day students. It seems to me that restricting half-day K to certain locations—which you must admit makes it only less appealing—will push even more parents to opt for full day. Will this create other space or budget issues? If numbers continue to decline, will half-day eventually be limited to one school? Meanwhile, it has been noted that the district is seeing an increase in families who qualify as low income; isn’t it possible there’s also an increase in families who just miss qualifying as such? What kind of pressure does this setup put on them? (Just thoughts -- no need to reply.)
Finally, and perhaps most importantly, I hope there is some attention paid to the effects on next year’s half-day students as they transition to first grade, particularly those rerouted to their neighborhood school. I would worry that changing schools may only make that adjustment harder. And again, it’s troubling that these kids and their families are being subjected to hardships essentially because they’ve enrolled in the tuition-free program. I know that’s not the intent or the motivation, but that’s what it boils down to.
Thank you for hearing my point of view. I don’t like to criticize without offering some alternative suggestions, but it’s obviously a tricky situation and I don’t have any. So I’m just offering this as food for thought.
Sincerely,
Meghan Shinn
Hopkins Street, Reading
From: Rebecca Liberman
February 22, 2018
Dear Members of the School Committee,
I urge you to schedule a hearing as soon as possible on the proposal to save the middle school foreign language and extra English teachers in the FY19 balanced budget, which will take effect if the override does not pass. The budget document itself says that the approved budget "is not in the best interest of the students of Reading" (School Committee's Recommended Budget p. 4), and yet this budget was approved 5-1 by the School Committee with almost no discussion of alternatives to cutting these critically important programs.
Our most recent district report card from the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education lists the Reading Public Schools as “Needs Technical Assistance” for special education, and since 2014, Joshua Eaton has received a Level 3 accountability rating, meaning that it ranks in the bottom 20% of K-5 schools in the state for special education student achievement. And the percentage of 5th grade students who failed to meet expectations on the 2017 English Language Arts MCAS ranged from a low of 38% at Barrows to a truly dismal 52% at Birch Meadow, which is worse than the state average. What will happen to these students when they reach 6th grade and no longer have the extra English block to help them transition to the higher expectations of middle school? What will happen to special education students who depend on that 6th grade English block for extra time to improve their language skills? And make no mistake, the loss of foreign language will negatively impact student achievement in other subjects, especially English.
And what are we spending our education dollars on as we cut the middle school teachers? The FY19 budget spends $600,000 on athletics, which marks a $200,000 increase from 2016 levels, even though overall high school enrollment has declined. In addition to increased spending on athletics, the budget also increases administration spending by 12% and facilities spending by over 7%. Meanwhile, 9 out of 10 districts with per pupil expenditures lower than ours still manage to offer foreign language in middle school and have no Level 3 designations.
The balanced budget adopted by the School Committee virtually guarantees that the district goals of closing the achievement gap, improving literacy, and improving mathematics achievement will not be met.
And what will replace these important academic subject areas that are being eliminated? I have heard nothing about a backup plan if the override fails. Does the district have one? I believe that cutting the middle school foreign language and extra English teachers increases the likelihood that the override will fail, given the large number of survey respondents who expressed concern about how their tax dollars are being spent, especially on the school side of the budget. And if the override passes, then we will have lost teachers for no reason at all. Also, two years in a row of threatened cuts to middle school foreign language teachers will negatively impact teacher morale. When did teachers become the first priority for cuts instead of the first priority for school spending?
I am already hearing of teachers and students planning to leave the district because of these cuts. We owe it to our students and the dedicated professionals who teach them to do everything we can to restore these important programs in the balanced budget. The least we can do to start with is to hold a hearing, and I urge you to do so as soon as possible so that perhaps we can convince some of these teachers to stay.
Thank you.
Sincerely,
Rebecca Liberman 50 Pratt Street
DRAFT - 2017-2018 School Committee Meeting Date
Anticipated Agenda Items
Joshua Eaton Update, Quarterly Personnel and Budget Updates, Assistant Superintendent Search Feb. 26th School Committee Process
March 7th Fincom - 7:30 p.m. Borawski & Boivin Math Update, YRBS Presentation March 19th School Committee Part 2 Appointment of Assistant March 28th School Committee - 6:00 p.m. Superintendent Location TBD
April 3rd Local Election Special Education Update, Joshua Eaton School April 9th School Committee Improvement Plan Update Office Hours Webb & Vanden Akker April 23rd Town Meeting District Goals Update, Quarterly Personnel & Budget April 24th School Committee Updates April 26th Town Meeting April 30th Town Meeting
May 3rd Town Meeting School Choice, REF Grant May 7th School Committee Update Office Hours Robinson & Snow Dockser Superintendent's Evaluation May 21st School Committee
June 3rd RMHS Graduation Staff Recognition, Reorganization, Joshua Eaton School Improvement Plan June 4th School Committee Office Hours June 18th School Committee FY18 Budget
2.22.18 Meeting dates subject to change
All meetings are in the Superintendent's Conference Room at 7:00 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Dates and locations subject to change. (Bold indicates new or changed date or location.