NEWTON SCHOOL COMMITTEE

MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING – JUNE 25, 2001

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

PRESENT: Chairperson Verne Vance, Vice-Chairperson Anne Borg, Susan Albright, hkhRodney Barker, Susan Heyman, Anne Larner, Nancy Levine, Andris Vizulis, Sharone Gilon, student representative, Newton South High School

ABSENT: Mayor Cohen and student representative from Newton

North High School

OPEN SESSION

At 6:00 p.m., it was announced that the Committee will 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 hearing

a grievance. If passed, the Committee will

reconvene in open session at 7:30 p.m.

(Larner - Levine)

6 – 0 – 3

Absent for vote: Barker, Vizulis

Absent for executive session: Mayor Cohen

ROLL CALL VOTE BY WARD:

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

CALL TO ORDER

Chairperson Verne Vance called the meeting to order at 7:45 p.m. He thanked his colleagues on the School Committee for their extraordinary teamwork during this difficult year. He also thanked the Superintendent andstaff for the Herculean efforts they displayed. Finally, he thanked the parents for their tireless efforts in supporting the Oak Hill community following the terrible

bus tragedy, as well as their work the high school referendum, and their lobbying of the legislature for additional funding. This School Committee's final major task will be to provide for a smooth transition for the new group that will be coming on board, when five of the eight positions will turn over. One of the major challenges that will face the new Committee will be finding ways to enhance the revenues to support education.

PRESENTATION OF COMMUNITY SERVICE LEARNING VIDEO

Nancy Holczer, Community Service Learning Specialist, talked about community service learning as a growing national initiative. They have been fortunate to have received state grant funding for their program. She then presented a video of some of the students' projects, which included Day Middle School's dance class /Jackson Homestead's Underground Railroad, a Zambia book drive, and Cabot School's 3^rd grade animal unit. They also issue an annual newsletter about the program, to highlight the work that was done and to encourage others to participate.

Verne Vance thanked her for this excellent presentation, which was a wonderful way to close out the year.

PUBLIC COMMENT

Paul Roberts, 249 Walnut St., Newtonville, mentioned that he will be forming a Newton Alumni Association this year and is in the process of developing a mission statement and other appropriate documents, which may need to be submitted to the School Committee for approval. They will be modeling this group after Brookline's Association. Planning began this past November at the 1960 class reunion, with the main goal being to provide an ongoing quality social environment for graduates and former employees, highlighting their accomplishments, and working with current students as role models. An alumni office at each school has been discussed and they would need to work with the administration around this, as the high school buildings are renovated.

STUDENT REPRESENTATIVES' DISCUSSION

Sharone Gilon reported that the year ended on an excellent note. The prom and graduation both went very well. A new organization called The South Senate has formed, composed of faculty, parents, and students, of which she will chair. Their purpose is to discuss issues and problems at the school and attempt to

develop some policy suggestions. Some items that are on the agenda are parking, changes in exam scheduling, and textbooks in the library.

RECOGNITIONS

The following recognitions were acknowledged:

Dawn McNair, 1^st grade teacher at Bowen Elementary School, who was named Massachusetts 2002 Teacher of the Year.

Mary Eich, K-8 Mathematics Coordinator, for her presentation Ours Is Not To Reason Why, Just Invert And Multiply, at the Association of Teachers of Mathematics Spring Conference.

APPROVAL OF SCHOOL COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES

MOTION: It was moved to approve the School Committee

regular meeting minutes of 3/26/01, and special

meeting minutes of 3/28/01.

(Levine - Larner)

8 - 0 - 1

Absent: Mayor Cohen

DISUCSSION ITEMS

UPDATE ON HIGH SCHOOL BUILDING PROJECT

Heidi Black, Administrator of High School Construction and Strategic Planning, provided the Committee with an update on the status of the project. A faculty meeting was held on June 5^th, where staff was given an overview of what to expect next year. They also discussed what the typical classroom would look like. They also discussed the issue of parking, which will be a problem at Newton South in the fall. Currently they are investigating the possibility of assigned parking spaces for faculty, with the remaining spots for students based on either class, grade, or possibly a lottery. Ample notification will be provided with regard to the ultimate decision. The prototype classroom is moving along and just today they installed some technology. They expect the wiring to be completed in July and the furnishing over the summer, so that the class will be available for staff in September. A health and safety oversight committee is being formed and will

include staff, parents, and student, who will meet on regular basis. People are very excited about the process and looking forward to next year.

Carl Franceschi, Architect for DRA, brought the Committee up to speed on the project. He began by displaying the drawings and plans and talked about the renovation and new construction, which will occur in phases. As the work begins, certain parts of the building will be fenced off, so that the contractor's activities will be isolated and contained.

Sharone Gilone noted that the classroom design depicts 24 desks but, in fact, there will be classes of up to 30+. She wondered if they will feel overcrowded.

Carl Franceschi responded that the classroom will be able to accommodate larger numbers and he demonstrated how another row of desks could fit.

Sharone Gilone asked if there will be additional parking in the new design.

Carl Franceschi replied that the finished product picks up additional parking in several locations.

Susie Heyman asked if the new courtyard would be shaded because of the height of the buildings.

Carl Franceschi stated that because it faces north, it will be partially shaded. However, they view this as more of a transition space that people will pass through. The other courtyard will be sunnier and will have more of a plaza type atmosphere.

Rodney Barker asked if there would be vegetation in the courtyards.

Carl Franceschi answered that in the shaded space they will have a mixture of pavement and shade-tolerant ground cover and more grass and plantings in the lighter courtyard.

Susan Albright asked about the metal panels being used on the facade.

Carl Franceschi noted that they are similar to what is on the Federal Reserve Building in South Station, Boston. The panels will be painted an off-white color and will reflect more light than the pre-cast concrete ones below. They will be happy to provide some photographs and/or examples if the Committee would like. Some people picture a very industrial type material when they think of metal panels, but this is not the case. There are no exposed fasteners and they are a slick, high-tech design, which should blend well in the plan.

Sharone Gilon asked if they will be putting in better quality radiators and air-conditioning than what is currently in place in the new science classrooms.

Carl Franceschi stated that they have scrutinized this issue and the equipment will be quieter and less of a distraction than what is currently in place.

Andy Vizulis asked how they are addressing the grading difference in the space for the new cafeteria.

Carl Franceschi replied that the difference in elevation in this space will probably require a cafeteria with two levels and a ramp, which is an exciting design concept.

Susie Heyman asked about the issues regarding placement of the kitchen.

Carl Franceschi replied that they are still working on the best placement for the kitchen and may consider its relocation. They want to make this not just a cafeteria, but more of a student center. They envision high ceilings and a great deal of natural lighting. In addition to eating, student organizations could meet in this space and it could be a place for socializing before and after school.

Dick Amster, project manager from Turner, Josselin & Lesser Associates, briefed the Committee on the schedule. Bids are due out by July 2nd for Phase IA, which includes early site work, blasting of the knoll and utility relocations. The deadline for this work is September 15th and the blasting must be completed before the opening of school. Phase IB is the new building itself and the bids are due out mid-July, with the goal to begin work September 1st, with a completion date of September, 2002. Phase II involves the athletic facility, cafeteria, band room, and renovations to existing spaces. They hope to get the bids out for this work early next year.

SUPERINTENDENT'S PERSONNEL REPORT

Jeffrey Young referred to the new booklet commemorating all 2000-2001 staff retirees. In particular, he wanted to note the retirement of Janet Goldrick, Deputy Superintendent. In her 39 years working for the Newton Public Schools, she has served as a secretary, teacher, principal, Assistant Superintendent, and Acting Superintendent. She has been an extraordinary leader, gifted educator and a good friend. She will be sorely missed by all.

Susie Heyman noted that Janet has made her role as a School Committee member that much easier. She always had a level head and was able to put things into perspective. She was full of good advice and a wonderful sense of humor.

Anne Larner noted that her daughter was privileged to have Janet as a teacher at Peirce Elementary School. She has a calming influence during difficult situations. She has always been a natural leader. She thanked her for her guidance and wisdom.

Susan Albright talked about the year Janet served as Acting Superintendent and how smoothly she kept things moving. As the new Chairperson to the School Committee that year, her guidance was greatly appreciated.

Andy Vizulis commented that Janet personifies everything that is excellent about the Newton Public Schools. He will always cherish her friendship and will miss her dearly.

Rodney Barker acknowledged the many years of service Janet gave to the system. She was a very successful moderator, particularly during difficult issues that the School Committee had to face.

Anne Borg stated that Janet exemplifies integrity. She is open and trustworthy in all her dealings with people. After having a conversation with her, people know they have been respectfully , be difficult to duplicate. She enjoyed her time working with Janet.

Nancy Levine talked about how Janet was so approachable and easy to talk to. In the short time that she has worked with her, she has found all the wonderful things that people have said about her to be absolutely true.

Verne Vance commented that Janet has helped Committee members perform their duties to the best of their potential. She has always been willing to answer questions, provide history, and offer good suggestions and advice. There is no doubt about the deep regard and affection that people have for her and that her presence will be greatly missed.

Janet Goldrick admitted that it was a strange feeling to be driving to tonight's meeting knowing that it was the last one of her career. She has been blessed on her journey through the system because of the wonderful people she has been fortunate to encounter. All she ever wanted was to go to bed at night hoping that she made a difference in at least one person's life and Newton has provided that opportunity. She thanked everyone for their kind words and will miss all her friends.

PRESENTATION OF METCO PLANS

Lisa Reed, Director of the Newton METCO Program, highlighted some of this year's work. They were able to host 6^th and 8^th grade transition workshops for

parents and students, as a way of helping children move smoothly through the different grade levels. They will also be conducting the math camp once again for new students, because it has proven to be very successful in helping them learn the differences in the skills and vocabulary between the Boston and Newton curriculum. They also hosted a conference with other METCO communities, where students got together to talk about their experiences in the program, both positive and negative, and what kind of support they need to be successful. Several of the METCO students participated in the citywide Newton Speak-Out this year, talking about issues of racism, bigotry, and prejudice. They offered a variety of programs to parents this year to include them more in the life of the school system, such as interactive math workshops, information on the MCAS Summer Success Program, and meetings to inform them of available resources and enrichment programs. They participated in the historical Black Challenge Program, hosted a gospel show, and held an urban/suburban conference in Boston. In addition, they were able to purchase multicultural books and software for all 21 schools. They once again brought the School Committee to Boston for a meeting with parents and hope that will be an annual affair. Nine elementary schools participated in Affinity groups and this continues to grow each year. They also participated in a conference with 32 other communities around research on the achievement gap between Caucasian and African-American students and strategies to improve that gap.

In terms of placement, 47 students were enrolled this year in the elementary schools. Due to class size restrictions, some buildings were not able to accept any new students. In terms of the budget, they are hoping to achieve an increase in funding this year, which will be only the second one in 15 years. She appreciates the community's lobbying and Senator Creem's efforts in regard to their budget. She concluded by thanking all of her staff for their hard work and support throughout the year.

Susie Heyman thanked Ms. Reed and the METCO program for sharing their resources during difficult fiscal times this year, so that they could retain as much as possible for all students. Their generosity is greatly appreciated.

Rodney Barker asked if the percentage of various ethnic groups in the program reflects the percentage of minorities in Boston.

Lisa Reed stated that she does not have that information on hand, but will be happy to provide it to the Committee.

Verne Vance mentioned that one of the reasons Newton opts out of the Massachusetts School Choice Program is so that those available slots can go to METCO students rather than children from other communities that may have other educational options.

ANNUAL REPORT ON SYSTEMWIDE GOALS

Jeff Young explained that the systemwide goals are developed annually at the School Committee retreat. They are in the third year of Goal #1: to improve the quality of K-12 education by continuing the process of aligning Newton's

curriculum with the state frameworks and creating an academically challenging standards-based learning environment, and he expects they will continue this for several more years. He highlighted some of the particulars. He talked about the written grade level documents that help describe the content area to parents and the positive feedback they have received around that material. He also mentioned the importance of the pilot programs in the literacy initiative. They were not able to address the exploration of alternative high school programs, as a result of lack of time, but hope to be able to do that in conjunction with the high school space projects.

They have been actively working on Goal #2: to develop a capital plan for meeting the need of Newton's school buildings, in their efforts on the high school projects and Tier 1 renovations. This year was especially challenging in the area of charter maintenance, because of the budget constraints and the resulting spending freeze, and they expect that to be true next year as well.

In terms of Goal #3: to develop a strategic plan for accommodating student enrollment, this objective was reached this year in the redistricting plan and now they have to address some housekeeping items surrounding that decision.

The have made some good strides on the final Goal #4: to develop a long-range strategy for incorporating technology into daily instruction, as well as administrative practice. High school staff are ecstatic about the funding for technology that is in the building projects, that will ultimately be available once completed. Fran Zilonis, Director of Information Technology, will be presenting her report following this discussion. The Newton Public Schools web site is up and running thanks to the efforts of Andy Vizuli, who did an extremely professional job on this task. The promptness with which information becomes available on the site is amazing, particularly given that it is a volunteer position.

TECHNOLOGY UPDATE

Fran Zilonis thanked the Committee for the opportunity to summarize the initiatives that are in place. The overall goal is the integration of technology into teaching and learning. A strategic plan was developed, in conjunction with principals and specialists. A copy of this draft is included in tonight's material. It includes the topics, followed by the visions, goals, planning, current conditions, intermediate steps, indicators of success, and planning for reaching the targets. The document has been provided to staff for their comments and will be revised

to incorporate additional suggestions. The target date for achieving their goal is 2003. They envision the library/media and instructional technology programs

becoming an integral part of the teaching and learning process. Their mission statement is also included in the packet and talks about ensuring that every student is information literate and proficient in the use of technology and the responsibility of the system to meet this goal. Goals have also been set for teachers and she emphasized the need for appropriate professional development.

In terms of acquiring the funding for technology, the Superintendent has initiated some creative plans for accessing resources outside the school system and was able to obtain a large donation of PCs this year from one of these sources. In addition, they are working with the Newton Schools Foundation around ways to acquire additional revenue. PTOs have been a wonderful resource and have consistently supported their efforts. They are able to access approximately $5,000 worth of on-line database information free of charge, as a result of their membership in the Mass. Board of Library Commissioners. Grants are another source of funding which they continue to explore. She outlined the specific ones for which they currently have applied.

The State mandates that by 2003 every district should have a 5:1 student/ computer ratio. Newton is currently at 6.55:1, so they are moving closer to this directive. There are other mandates and standards that have been set by the state and those are in tonight's material, along with their progress to date in each area.

There is a technology task force at each high school, which works with staff around needs and serves as a link at department meetings. There is also a systemwide technology committee that has visited other school systems to review their programs and participated in Apple Computer all-day professional development workshops. They are working closely with the library media program to develop a strategic plan. They are also working on draft documents of how they will integrate technology into the classroom.

are planned for next year, including on-line training, partnerships to provide master's degrees, pilot projects using PCs in the classroom, and workshops.

Verne Vance asked about purchasing vs. leasing of equipment.

Fran Zilonis believes that leasing is an excellent option, but it requires an annual commitment of a large sum of money. The current budget is too small to embark upon that process. However, if the School Committee were to direct her to move forward with this idea, she would be happy to comply. Leasing would enable the system to turn over the equipment every three years and they would not have to pay disposal feels.

Susan Albright does not believe they can afford a leasing program, although it does sound enticing.

Anne Larner commented that they would have to do a careful statistical analysis regarding the financing if they were ever to move in this direction, because often there are no tax advantages involved in leasing for governmental bodies or non-profit organizations. However, she agrees that it does not appear possible fiscally, at least on the future horizon.

Susan Albright asked about the library system.

Fran Zilonis stated that they will be buying a server that will be housed at the Education Center that will cover all 15 elementary schools.

Jeff Young commented that part of their effort is to link the Information Technology Center with the Administrative Technology Center, so that the two are more integrated next year. Fran will take a leadership role in this regard.

VOTE ON APPROVAL OF DONATION

MOTION: It was moved to accept the anonymous donation

of $1,000.00 to the Early Childhood Program.

(Heyman - Barker)

8 - 0 - 1

Absent: Mayor Cohen

VOTE TO ACCEPT GRANTS

MOTION: It was moved to accept the new grants totaling

$54,650, as outlined in the 6/21/01 memorandum.

(Heyman - Barker)

8 - 0 - 1

Absent: Mayor Cohen

COMMUNICATIONS

Verne Vance wished everyone a restful summer.

PUBLIC COMMENT

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

ADJOURNMENT

The meeting was adjourned at 10:05 p.m.