NEWTON SCHOOL COMMITTEE

MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING – NOVEMBER 27, 2000

EDUCATION CENTER, FRAZIER ROOM, 7:30 P.M.

PRESENT: Chairperson Verne Vance, Vice-Chairperson Anne Borg, Susan Albright, Rodney Barker, Susan Heyman, Anne Larner, Nancy Levine, Andris Vizulis, James Tierney, student representative – Newton North High School

ABSENT: Mayor David Cohen and student representative, Newton

South High School

OPEN SESSION

At 6:00 p.m., it was announced that the Committee would entertain a motion to convene in executive session.

MOTION: It was moved, by roll call vote, to convene in executive session for the purpose of discussing matters related to collective bargaining. If passed, the Committee will reconvene in open session at 7:30 p.m.

(Levine - Larner)

8 – 0 - 1

Absent for vote: Mayor Cohen

ROLL CALL VOTE BY WARD:

Ward I, “yes” (Vizulis); Ward II, "yes" (Albright); Ward III, "yes" (Larner); Ward IV, "yes", (Levine); Ward V, "yes" (Heyman); Ward VI, “yes” (Barker); Ward VII, "yes" (Vance); Ward VIII, “yes”, (Borg); Mayor David Cohen, absent for vote

CALL TO ORDER

Chairperson Verne Vance called the meeting to order at 7:35 p.m.

PUBLIC DISCUSSION

There were no members of the public who wished to address the Committee at this time.

STUDENT REPRESENTATIVES’ DISCUSSION

None.

RECOGNITIONS

None.

APPROVAL OF SCHOOL COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES

MOTION: It was moved to approve the School Committee

executive session meeting minutes of 10/27/00.

(Larner – Albright)

7 – 0 – 2

Absent for vote: Barker

Absent: Mayor Cohen

REPORTS

REPORT FROM HEALTH COMMISSIONER ON STATUS OF HEALTH SERVICES

David Naparstek, Health Commissioner, thanked the Committee for the opportunity to talk about the work of their department and the challenges that lie ahead. The Health Department has been providing quality health care services to the school system, largely through the support from the present City administration. They currently have 20 nurses, whereas ten years ago that number was only eight. The increased staff is a direct result of growth in service demands brought about by such things as inclusion programs and the medical health needs of the special education population. Fortunately, they continue to receive grant funding from the Tobacco Control Program, which assists in providing staffing and technology for the health rooms

Linda Walsh, Director of Clinical Services, presented the program using overheads. As a result of the grant funding from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, last year they were able to purchase 23 computers and a new software program, as well as equipment for the health rooms, which their budget was not able to support. This year they were able to hire an additional RN, a part-time RN, and increase the school physician’s hours to consult with non-public schools. The learning curve for the new computers and software programs

has been intense. They did some summer training and will need much more, in order to utilize the program to its full capacity.

She then showed the increased numbers of diagnostic medical needs over the past 10 years, the number of health room visits in a two month period, and the number of students on medication. They are currently in their second year of a five-year plan to place a nurse in every building.

She then listed the various types of procedures that are performed on a daily basis in the health room. Staff has to be trained to deal with seizures, allergies, asthma, diabetes, etc. They are committed to addressing children’s needs within the building and keeping them in school whenever possible, because they do not want to interrupt the educational process. Absenteeism for conditions such as asthma has decreased tremendously because the therapy can now be done in the buildings. In addition to addressing the needs of the children, nurses also treat staff problems.

Finally, nursing certification under the Department of Education (DOE) has been a huge hurdle and it is difficult to find licensed staff. Certification is very different than what it was 10 years ago. Once nurses are hired, they have to obtain certification within five years, including expertise in pediatrics, medical technology, and acute care settings.

In terms of future goals, they would like to have more health assistants in the large middle schools where there is only one nurse. They would like to become more involved in health education programming and hope to work with the school department, as renovations are conducted on the various buildings, in order to obtain more appropriate space for their needs.

David Naparstek completed the presentation by mentioning that they would like to return in the spring with more accurate data from their new computerized system.

Andy Vizulis asked abbot the rise in numbers visiting the health rooms.

David Naparstek mentioned that the food allergy issue is one source for increased health room visits. In addition, there is better diagnoses and management of asthma. In the past, these children would have stayed home, but now these problems can be treated in the schools.

Andy Vizulis asked if there are cases of children being in school who should rightfully be at home.

Linda Walsh replied in the affirmative. Protocol calls for children to be sent home if they have a fever, undiagnosed rash, or other type of communicable disease. This is why accurate emergency cards are so important.

Rodney Barker asked if they could provide some data on the number/percentage of students in the schools taking psychotropic medicines.

Linda Walsh stated that 73% of the medications dispersed are identified as psychotropic and this does not account for those who take it prior to coming to school. She will review the data and provide the specific numbers at a later date.

Susie Heyman asked if there is at least a health professional, if not a nurse, in each building.

Linda Walsh explained that there are some elementary schools that work in a team structure, where the nurse is in one building and the health assistant is in the other. While the health assistants are hard-working employees, they are not certified nurses. Eventually they would like to move these people to the secondary level, to have them work with the nursing staff in those schools.

David Naparstek noted that in addition to trying to attract certified nurses, another problem is the lack of substitutes when nurses are absent.

Linda Walsh is concerned about the nursing shortage looming on the horizon. There was a time when she had to turn away prospective employees because of the sheer number applying. As it stands, nurses must attain their Master’s Degree, which is both costly and time-consuming and is resulting in fewer applicants statewide. Newton’s current salary structure is not as good as some surrounding communities. Hopefully, negotiations will address this issue. Field trip coverage is another area of concern. If the building nurse accompanies the students, that means the school is left unattended.

Superintendent Jeffrey Young asked if they could comment on the adequacy of space of the health rooms.

Linda Walsh responded that it has been an uphill battle to retain adequate space. However, once issues have been identified, the system has been very responsive to their requests. The problem lies more in needing to be part of the planning process rather than reacting to situations. Their minimum requirements would be a bathroom, sink, and window -- all necessary items because of air quality issues and communicable diseases.

Jeff Young mentioned that it will be important to include the Health Department in the initial planning stages for all future building projects and renovations.

Verne Vance asked about current involvement with health education activities.

Linda Walsh replied that they do not have a master plan for working with the school system in this area, and currently are only involved in programs at individual schools. Some of these include science projects on bones and muscles, hand-washing and personal hygiene, and tobacco control education. One of their goals is to better utilize the nursing staff as a resource in the classroom. They do not want to interrupt teaching time, rather to weave it into the curriculum that is being covered in the classroom. They are also involved with family health education, in terms of sending home information around head lice, food allergies, and first aid. This year they hope to also provide CPR training.

Verne Vance suggested they develop a link with the school’s web site.

Jeff Young thanked the Health Department staff for an excellent presentation and informative discussion. Their department has always made themselves available to the schools in emergencies and for specific health related issues. He looks forward to continuing their collaboration, as they outline their plans for the future.

PRELIMINARY ENROLLMENT ANALYSIS REPORT

Sandra Guryan, Assistant Superintendent for Business, Finance & Planning, presented the Preliminary October 1 enrollment as 11,246 students. While technically the numbers remain “flat,” they are down by two students since last year and the first drop in an 11 year period. The report compares the projected enrollments on a school-by-school and grade-by-grade basis.

Enrollment at the elementary level dropped by 32 students more than anticipated and is made up of a number of pluses and minuses at each school. Of particular note is Countryside, where there were 39 fewer children than projected. They have been reviewing this data with the principal and found that over the summer 54 students moved out of the district, while 15 moved in during that same timeframe. The reasons for the out-migration were varied, so this appeared to be an anomaly.

At the middle schools, projections called for a growth of 30 and the actual number was 32.

At the high schools, there are eight more students than projected at Newton North, but 42 less than anticipated at Newton South. In reviewing this data, it was determined that the majority of the variance occurred in grade nine. It appears that a piece of this has to do with the out-of-district transfer process. In the past, they have been strict about approving transfers from one high school to

the other on a one-for-one swap basis. Earlier in the year, when it was expected that North’s enrollment was to be flat and South was expected to have many students beyond capacity, more transfers were allowed for South to North. Another factor may have to do with private school and other exit data that they are continuing to review. Finally, last year they decided to use the three vs. five-year historical trend in their analysis, believing it would provide cleaner data

following the reorganization of the middle schools. In fact, if they had used the five-year trend, the projections would have been more accurate. Next year they will most likely include both for sake of comparison.

REPORT FROM USE OF SCHOOL BUILDINGS SUBCOMMITTEE

Nancy Levine reviewed the highlights of the report and the recommendation of the subcommittee. She noted that they spoke with the various user groups at the beginning of this process, reviewed former policies, talked with staff about the permit and procedure processes, and had conversations with the City’s Law Dept. The policy goals, as set forth by the 1993 School Committee, were solid and they would like to keep these intact. The 26% increase, while appearing hefty, is a result of the fact that rates have not been increased in seven years. Of the three options presented in the material, the subcommittee Option #3, which changes the policy only as it relates to businesses and non-Newton users and updates the fees for all groups. There would be a rental fee for these groups, in addition to the user fee, that would vary depending upon the location. For example, it is less expensive to use a middle school vs. high school auditorium. This may help reduce demand for the two high school auditoriums, which are constantly in use. They are recommending instituting the change in FY02, but bringing it before the Committee at this time in order to provide user groups sufficient notice in which to do their own budgeting.

Anne Borg added that other school systems also charge rental fees for the use of their facilities.

Anne Larner commented that care will be necessary in defining the groups. When they refer to community groups receiving lower rates, they are speaking of those that are primarily volunteer run. A clear and careful review of the application form and processes will be conducted if the Committee accepts the subcommittee’s recommendation.

Rodney Barker expressed concern about the Cub Scouts and City youth groups being charged the same rates as municipal groups.

Nancy Levine explained that Option #3 does not change the category for these groups, who already receive a reduction in fees. It simply increases the user fee rates at the same 26% rate that all groups will realize.

Anne Borg explained that the increase simply covers custodial costs.

Anne Larner noted that there is no charge to the youth groups if they utilize the buildings prior to 6:00 p.m.

Any Vizulis asked about the concept of piggybacking, where groups meeting simultaneously share the cost of the fee.

Nancy Levine explained that piggybacking was disallowed in 1994 and the subcommittee does not recommend its reinstitution.

Susie Heyman commented that no one likes to charge any group for the use of school buildings. However, when there are not enough funds for programs and materials or enough money in the budget to properly maintain the schools, it becomes necessary to ask people to bear the price of what it costs to keep the schools opened and pay the custodians.

Nancy Levine noted that part of the recommendation calls for annual reviews of the policy and fees so that they can address any issues that may arise. This will also allow them to institute a formula-driven fee structure that will allow them to adjust the fees each year based on the actual costs.

Rodney Barker continues to be troubled by the fact that youth groups are paying more than Recreation Department programs.

Anne Borg reiterated that the differential between the groups is the same as it has been in the past. His proposal would be actually lowering the rates for the youth groups.

Andy Vizulis asked about groups being bumped last minute because of a school need.

Nancy Levine stated that this has occurred mostly with Community Education and has been a problem that needs to be addressed.

James Marini, Assistant Superintendent for High Schools & Operations, explained that they have done a lot of work to address this concern. However, occasionally there are conflicts and if an emergency arises, the understanding is that the schools have priority. The one area they need to make clear is that Community Education is part of the school system and should be treated as such.

DISCUSSION ITEMS

DISCUSSION ON IMPACT OF SPECIAL EUCATION LEGISLATION

Carol Daynard, Assistant Superintendent for Pupil Services, updated the Committee on the latest legislation with regard to special education. The Department of Education identified two areas of non-compliance statewide – lack of parental involvement and students being placed in more restrictive vs. least restrictive environments. Fortunately, Newton was not one of the communities cited for these non-compliance issues. The new Individual Evaluation Plan (IEP) process has begun and they have sent letters to parents to help them understand the changes, as well as copies of the parents rights brochure, which includes new language.

She then talked about the requirement that all special education students will participate in MCAS and the discussions they have been having around developing a curriculum accommodation plan. She envisions a framework similar to the systemwide goals that will outline how they plan to address the needs of children at risk of failure.

Another change in the regulations has to do with the need to specifically identify a student’s disability and the need for staff training in this area. In addition to the identification piece, there is also specified regulatory language relating to the

process for each disability. They are working on the criteria and check sheets that will need to accompany these regulations.

Rodney Barker asked for a definition of the 504 plan.

Carol Daynard replied that Section 504 is part of the Civil Rights Act, which requires an accommodation plan for a disability. Some examples would be

providing students with Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) extended time to take tests and allowing them periodic breaks to move around the classroom. There have also been changes to this law having to do with related services and additional protections and due process rights for a child. One example of what is now considered a related service provision is transportation, so she will be monitoring this closely. Finally, she spoke about the fact that the requirements for independent evaluations remain the same.

Susie Heyman asked if the new IEP forms are computerized.

Carol Daynard explained that the program arrived the second week of school and immediately crashed. They have been doing them by hand since. However, the Administrative Technology Center (ATC) is in the process of helping them developing a template for this purpose.

Susie Heyman is disturbed that the legislative language from the State is geared more toward containing costs than serving children. The public policy committee of the Education Collaborative (EDCO) is developing some recommendations around special education funding in order to lobby the legislature.

DISCUSSION OF REDISTRICTING PROCESS

Jeff Young presented a draft of the timeline for the redistricting process, including the development of criteria on which to judge the final options. He envisions a parental survey, of which he also included a draft, that will assist in developing the criteria from a citywide perspective. He also envisions at least two forums involving the public in the discussions. One would be a general conversation, with regard to what people believe is important in a redistricting plan, and the other would be later in the process, where they would comment on specific options that had been developed. He would also like to establish a community advisory committee, which would involve members of the School Committee, school administrative staff, city officials, principals, teachers, and parent representatives. Their task would be to review the enrollment projections and school capacities developed by staff, and present several options for the School Committee to consider. In addition, they would work on a communication plan for the schools and community at large. He would like to consider some outside technical help as well, perhaps in the data-gathering and

development stage of the operation. It is his goal to complete the process and choose one option before the end of the school year. While this is going to be a difficult and emotional subject, with goodwill, broad vision, cooperation, and communication, it can be done successfully.

Susan Albright has some concerns about the size of the advisory committee and its purpose.

Anne Larner is also concerned about the size of the advisory committee and whether it can be effective. She thought the use of a facilitator would be helpful. Her other concern has to do with the balance of parental involvement, with 15 people representing the elementary schools, four for the middle schools, and only two for the high schools. While she is optimistic that they can select people that will look beyond their specific neighborhood to the wider issues, it is more difficult for someone to look beyond their grade level, not having had the experience of different levels. Finally, she mentioned the need to pay critical attention to the interaction between program and how schools are organized at the three levels, so that the ultimate product has a very technical and professional standard and is something people can feel is reliable.

Nancy Levine favors the approach of bringing on board as many people as possible from the start, so as not to end up with people reacting to plans, rather having a proactive process.

Susie Heyman would like to flush out the language in the redistricting survey and perhaps develop different versions for the elementary and secondary levels.

Jeff Young reiterated that this is only a draft and he would appreciate feedback from the Committee with regard to revisions to the document.

Andy Vizulis hopes they will not have to tie up all of the administrators’ time at each of the meetings, rather bring them in for particular issues and discussions. From a parental viewpoint, a large group of top administrators can be intimidating.

Anne Borg asked that they consider the size of the schools when selecting principal representatives, so that both small and large buildings are represented.

Anne Larner mentioned that defining and agreeing on capacity is key to a good plan and will most likely require a School Committee policy decision prior to the advisory committee commencing with its work.

The School Committee decided they needed further discussion around the makeup and charge of the advisory committee and identifying their own criteria.

SCHOOL COMMITTEE CAUCUS

Verne Vance explained that the purpose of the caucus is to elect the School Committee leadership for next year.

MOTION: It was moved to nominate Verne Vance as

Chairperson of the Newton School Committee

for 2001.

(Barker - Larner)

Discussion:

Rodney Barker commented on Mr. Vance’s leadership. He is articulate, well-organized, and fair in his treatment of all Committee members. Most importantly, he has a sense of humor that has often lightened tense moments during discussions.

Anne Larner seconded Mr. Barker’s comments and noted that they should stay with a winning team.

As there were no further nominations for Chairperson...

MOTION: It was moved to close nominates for Chairperson

of the School Committee for 2001.

(Barker - Borg)

8 – 0 – 1

Absent: Mayor Cohen

Vote on motion to nominate Verne Vance as Chairperson:

8 – 0 – 1

Absent: Mayor Cohen

MOTION: It was moved to nominate Anne Borg as

Vice-Chairperson of the Newton School

Committee for 2001.

(Albright - Barker)

Discussion:

Susan Albright commented on Ms. Borg’s quiet competence and creative thinking. She is certain she will continue do an excellent job as Vice-Chairperson of the Committee.

Rodney Barker mentioned Ms. Borg’s incredible hard work as chairperson of the negotiation team.

Verne Vance stated that he looks forward to having Ms. Borg serve as his Vice-Chairperson for another year. She is primarily responsible for the movement through the negotiations, with a spirit of cooperation on both sides. He looks forward to continuing to work with her and the rest of the Committee members on all the things they have ahead to accomplish.

As there were no further nomination for Vice-Chairperson...

MOTION: It was moved to close nominations for

Vice-Chairperson of the Newton School

Committee for 2001.

(Levine - Barker)

8 – 0 – 1

Absent: Mayor Cohen

Vote on motion to nominate Anne Borg as Vice-Chairperson:

8 – 0 – 1

Absent: Mayor Cohen

MOTION: It was moved to nominate Janet Goldrick, as

Executive Secretary to the Newton School

Committee, through June 30, 2001.

(Borg – Albright)

8 – 0 – 1

Absent: Mayor Cohen

ACTION ITEMS

VOTE TO ACCEPT DONATION

MOTION: It was moved to accept the donation of $500 cash

and $500 in merchandise from EDPRESS to the

Day Middle School.

(Larner – Borg)

8 – 0 – 1

Absent: Mayor Cohen

VOTE TO APPROVE BUDGET GUIDELINES

Susie Heyman would like to change the word “academic” to “educational” in #1, as it is a more inclusive term.

MOTION: It was moved to adopt the FY02 budget guidelines, as

amended.

(Borg – Larner)

8 – 0 – 1

Absent: Mayor Cohen

COMMUNICATIONS

Janet Linder, 348 Central St., Auburndale, suggested the Committee add more public hearings onto the proposed redistricting schedule and highly publicize the

meetings. She also hopes the Superintendent will play an active role in developing and proposing the options.

Deena David, 60 Rokebee Rd., Waban, talked about the lack of discussions around cultural and socio-economic differences in the City in past redistricting situations. It is an underlying and real issue that exists and adds to the intensity of the debates, but is rarely mentioned. She hopes they are able to have open and honest discussions about perceived vs. actual problems in this regard and unify the City. Perhaps the facilitator could be helpful in this regard.

ADJOURNMENT

The meeting was adjourned at 10:40 p.m.