I was like I’m gonna put fire on my fireplace. OK, Good evening. Yes. Hey. Can. Everyone hear me, Ok. Good evening. Uh, this moment I’d like to, uh, call the meeting of the Hamilton Regional School Committee to order on Thursday march 21st 2024 at 7:03 p.m.

and I invite you to join us in the Pledge of Allegiance. Mm. To the Republic for what you God indivisible liberty. Um, So. Um, is this on? Can you hear me? OK? Um, no, no, I think it’s on. OK. Uh, So, Uh, school Committee. I. Just wanna let

let you all know that I we did sort of make a late swap on the agenda? We just flipped the order because, um We have our winter athletes here. Um and when possible. We always want to try to move you guys to the top of the agenda. Um and so

without further ado Do. You wanna remind everyone about the recording? Thank you while you’re coming? Oh come on up. While. We’re I’ll remind all that This meeting is being live, streamed and recorded on HWC A Thank you. Thank you very much for having us. I apologize for having my back to all of our,

uh Stars here. Um, someone I was, uh, just speaking with one of our coaches who said, um how lucky we are to be able to do this. There’s not many districts that do this. It’s not many school committees that would have us on a busy night

to have us out, So thank you from the bottom of our heart we honored to be here. Uh and we and we’re honored to have all these teams and athletes represented, uh and share with you their accomplishments for the winter. Um I know, I probably sound like a broken record. But I mean this from

the bottom of my heart. I think every one of the All stars and gold medals that are here. Um We’re gonna Honor them and their individual awards and stuff and, um, and what they did, but I think they’d be the first to tell you that everything that they do is for the good of their team and that

their great teammates and, um, that their teammates are a huge reason why they’re here. So, even though there’s many, uh student athletes that aren’t here. They’re all represented by, uh, those that you see behind me. Um, just gonna go down the agenda and acknowledge certain things. Um, just wanna

talk briefly about our girls ski team. It’s only the second year we’ve had Yeah. I remember being up here and asking you if we could start it and how we’re gonna do that, and partnering with Ipswich and all the logistics that went involved with that, um, and just the second year our girls ski team,

uh with their captain Stuart Bernard? I don’t know if you guys wanna raise your hand or something or stand up. Oh and Matty minutes, right? Um, a. A lot of folks couldn’t make it a lot, uh, have practices. But, Um, the captains of Stuart Bernard and Matty Minnich. Uh, they won the league this year

mask hadn’t lost, uh Dual me race and I don’t know how long 100 years. Whatever it was, uh and we split with them, so we tied for a league title. It’s truly an incredible accomplishment and just their second year um, so we’ll be hanging a banner in the gym and, um, that’s gonna be a fun night

when we do that, Uh, for girls indoor track. Um the Cape, an league female athlete of the Year was Georgia Wilson of Georgia is here. I. Don’t think she is? Um but she I It’s pretty impressive. She’s an incredible athlete she plays Soccer and does indoor and outdoor track and watching her

jump and run as I. Don’t know II. I think I pull a hamstring just by watching her. Um uh, They also won the team sport the, uh, cap a league Sportsmanship award in the Captain for that, Uh, I know Isabella Fazio is probably a softball, but Sophia Ryan’s here. So if you want, you wanna

just wave to them, OK? She’s the best, um She’s an incredible teammate. Uh, I was talking to coach Sawyer about her and you’re an amazing teammate from everything I know about your so congratulations. I think the team sportsmanship award is not gonna Uh, it’s something we take very seriously and something, um,

that we’re very glad that you were able to be a huge part of so thank you, uh, also winning the team’s sportsmanship award in the Kan League was boys indoor track. Um, we’re gonna be calling these kids names a couple of times, but the indoor track captains who are behind me and McLaren Cook, Isaac

Jones, James Regan and Martin Baum. I know some of those guys are here, So congratulations. Feel bad. My You. Definitely wanna look at them and not me, So. I. Apologize for that, Um, the boys swim team, uh, won the league Sportsmanship award and I think we have one or two of

the captains here or one or two of the kids on the team? There was only a few kids. Only a handful of boys on the team. Um, and even though they went into every race knowing that they really maybe weren’t competing for a team victory, just by the lack of numbers, Um they competed hard and earned the

respect of everybody else in the league. It’s Miles carbon, Bennet. Powers in Nicholas. CK. All right. Good. Thank you. I appreciate that. Help. Nicholas. Thank you. Um uh The basketball leagues, the boys and Girls Basketball League, In addition to naming MVPS and, um You know stuff like that and all stars.

They also have what’s called the McCoy Courage award. That, uh, might not be the MVP, but it’s certainly an outstanding player in the league. That’s having a overcome some things. Um, and, uh, the winner of that. You know last year blew out his knee. He was tough went to just

about every practice and game last year is quite a teammate. Quite an accomplishment. Um You know when he was bummed out and probably wanted to be out there playing and couldn’t was there for his teammates at every turn. Uh, and so the league awarded him the McCoy card. A.

It’s Chris Collins. OK, uh, And now, um, we have a list of, uh, so the These are all league first team all stars because we’re in some co ops and things they’re not all cap in league. But for whatever sport the league is in. It’s the first team, all stars and then for some individual

sports, uh, the way they do all sizes is they have gold medal winners in the individual events at the end of the year in the league meet that are considered first team. Uh, also so those are who we have here. Uh, some of those who we have here now honored tonight.

Um Our boys, Our Boys Hockey Team Co opt at Rockport. Evan Huey, uh, was our all star, uh, for that team, he had a great year. He did a lot to integrate our team into theirs and was a great team leader. Um In that respect as well as well as

being a very excellent player on the ice. Uh, girls hockey, uh, with our corporate marble head, Ava Schultz. I don’t know if Avis here. Uh, Ava was here last year for this, Um Uh, I know our next gold medal winner is here, uh, in the 100 freestyle and the KPN League open. Uh, Catherine. Reed was

named league All star and gold medal winner. Uh, boys. Basketball, Um, we had our first team all star. He was a junior captain, Uh, he’s gonna be He was a huge part of our team this year and will be an even bigger part next year and like again common thread, incredible team leader.

That’s a B Labelle. Uh, I. Gabby Campbell is not here. But. Um she was our captain for girls basketball. I think her coach Mark Cole is here on her behalf? Um, I think she was a four year starter, a three year starter with um and has been a staple in our program forever. Um, for

those of you that know Mr Campbell, the teacher at the high school. Uh, I don’t know what number of child this is, but they’ve had, uh, basketball players in our school for a long, long time. We’re going to miss Gabby. And. We’re gonna miss, uh, seeing their talent and personality on the court.

Um The Boys indoor track team, Um Won a gold medal in the four by 800. I know a lot of them are here, Uh Clark, Glidden, Cole Regan, James Regan and Ben Rich. They were, uh, our Exon stars in cross country in the fall as well, Um and they’re gonna keep going doing incredible things. And.

Finally, Um, we wrestle at Salem uh, and Kevin spoon. Um both was a league All star and qualified for states. I. Don’t Think Kevin’s here tonight. Um, but that’s our last league All star, So Thank you from the bottom of our heart to all of you. Congratulations You probably heard me say a million times

that you know you’re certainly talented and all that and that’s great. And it is, but you’re all incredible teammates. You represent your teams well, and you represent our community. Well. So. Thank you very, very much to all the athletes that are here tonight and thank you for allowing us to honor them. Thank you. Um, thank you So.

Much for that, Um, and thank you to all of the athletes for being willing to come and let us get to meet you and see you. It means a tremendous amount to this committee, Um, to get to see you in person. Um and Um Like, Don’t, Mister General. I just said, um The athletic achievements are of course

amazing, and we are impressed. Um But. More importantly, it really is such an honor to have you all representing our community. Um, and the the sportsmanship Awards, um, are really meaningful and really powerful, Um, to hear. Um, about those honors. Um, that you’re bringing to our community and thank you for

that. And thank you to the parents for all that you’ve done, um, to get them to this place. Um Anybody else. I don’t want to monopolize anyone else have anything to say no. That Thank you all. But you a RE You A RE, of course invited to stay, But we’re we’re guessing you have other things. A Alright.

Um Always so much fun to have our Uh, student athletes being recognized OK, um, Next up on our agenda is our citizens comments. Mr? Tracy. Did. We get the zoom up and going OK? Um, nobody on OK, um, doesn’t look like we have anybody on zoom that’s gonna be making a comment. Uh, is there anyone in

the room interested in making a comment? OK just making sure otherwise. All, right In that case. Um we will not read all the rules about citizens comments and we can go ahead and close that. Um, Next up. We have a review of our school committee protocols. Um Can you read us a portion of that.

As elected members of the Hamilton Wenham Regional School Committee. We, including the superintendent, except the high honor and trust that has been placed in us to ensure that the students of the district receive the best education possible. To that end we hereby commit to the following in the conduct of our business number nine. All members will maintain

the confidentiality of privileged information and will respect the open meeting law. Thank you. Um, And because apparently I forgot to hand it out to anyone. I will read a portion of the mission statement. Uh, the Hamilton, one of regional school committee will lead and inspire a district that is a source of

civic pride and municipal engagement to serve the community for generations to come. Thank you. Um OK, Next up is the consent agenda. Does. Anyone have any items that they would like to hold from the consent agenda? It’s a student representative report. Oh, I’m so sorry. EV I apologize and thank you all for calling a

member of the committee and I and I always look forward to the student report. So. Um, next up. We have EV, uh, Bernard our, uh, student representative. I thank you so much for having me. Um my name is Evi Bernard and I. Am, the sophomore class president at the high school. Um so I just

wanted to go over some events that have been going on throughout all of the schools in the district. So, starting off with the high school. Um On March 12th. We hosted a blood drive with the Red cross. It was very successful. There was a total of 30 volunteers. Um, the Decca club went to states

on March 9 and five students qualified for CDC, which is the international competition. Um, and to break up like the long month of March. We hosted a March madness on Friday with a Ping pong tournament during power block and a senior verse faculty basketball game. Um, it ended up being a tie 3030, then

the class of 2020 2026 is holding a cookie Fun fundraiser. Um more information can be found on the website. And, um The high school also had a neuro diversity meeting. Um on Wednesday. And as the seniors approach. Um, their graduation, they have been planning their senior events. And, then on to

the sports. I know, Mister Daniel Aldo just talked about, Um all of the sports, which are sports, but to just go over it, girls basketball. Um Lost in the round of Sweet 16. The record was 1310 Girl ski team. Um, tied for league title. Boys basketball lost in the round of

32, but it was a very close game. 50 F 55 to 58. Uh, the record was tw 12 to 10. Um, cheer went to the MS, a a north regional championships, finished third in the Division four and it was their first time qualify. Qualifying for regionals since 2015 And. Then on Monday. Uh, spring sports

started. Um and then the clubs, the high school, Um The Environmental Club did a shoe drive and ended March 18th. I think it was very successful. Um, the science team, as I mentioned earlier had a blood drive, and then we also had a meat on March 12th. And, then on to the middle school. They also attended the

Neurodiversity assembly. And. They hosted a civic bee, which high schoolers were also allowed to participate in Um, on March 13th. And then they a RE preparing for their MC SI N April And. The eighth graders just returned home from a Spain trip. Um, February 24th, which I’ve heard was very fun. And then on to Winthrop.

Um Winthrop’s fourth graders are also preparing for EM CS, Um, they are Hosting a family music morning on March 20 S tomorrow morning and, um, great for grades two and four. They’ll be performing the songs they’ve been learning in music class. And, a special guest came in and talked about, uh, the

Gloucester Sea monster for the elementary school students. Onto Cutler. Cutler went on a field trip to North Shore Music Theater to see Madagascar today. And they’re preparing for the spring Music concert on May 22nd And. Then. Lastly Buker hosted an elementary literacy night. Last night. Thank you? That’s All. I have. Thank you?

Thank you I. That was really that was terrific. Really informative. Um, Does. Anyone have any questions? I’m not sure if you know, but I’m curious. Do you know who won the Ping Pong tournament? I think. I’m not sure, but I know he beat Mr Ma, which are So. It was it was an intense game.

That’s great It’s good information. That’s great. Um and I’m so glad that you highlighted the civic speed. Did Anybody, uh or any of our members at the civics be No, you there? Yeah. Oh excellent on competing teams. Are you on the team together. Um, that’s a fun event, so I’m glad you

highlighted that. Thank you for sharing that. Um, also, you got a great Meeting. I mean there were so many exciting things I was like I wanted to go to Spain and to see Madagascar. I thought that was great. Um All right? Anybody have anything else? Um have as always, you are certainly welcome to stay.

And also, we we understand you may have other things to do. Thank you. OK, all right now, and I really do appreciate you all keeping me on track, Because. Now. I’m gonna ask again. Does anyone have anything to hold? Um, before we move on to the to the consent agenda. For the first time in a

long time. Maybe not, Um all right. Uh, David. Would you be willing to make a more Excuse me? Yeah. Uh, I moved at the Hamilton and regional school committee accept the consent agenda as written. Second Second by John Carr. Um, and there is no discussion. Um, all those in favor. That is unanimous and the motion passes.

OK, um All, Right moving right along, Um, the next item of business is the, um, North shore Christian school. Um Before, we get started. I’m just gonna give a tiny bit of background. Um Uh so we, um When? When I don’t know how to phrase this, but, um The State law requires that a school

committee approves a private school. Um When. It moves into your community. Um I. Wanna just give compliments to past um, school committees and to, um Janelle, um, because it was very easy using our policy using our past minutes. Um, I was able very easily to determine exactly what I needed

to do when I was contacted and informed that the North Shore Christian school, which is an existing school that currently exists in Beverly, and they’re gonna be moving locations into Wenham. Um, I’m was really happy to say that Even though this was something I didn’t know anything about. I was very

easy for us for me to figure out so thank you to past policies and, um and all the minutes Um So if you, um before we get Started. I just wanna just give a little bit if you look at the po our policy on this, you can see that, um

There is under criteria of approval for a private school. There are two it says a private school may demonstrate its program through efficient. Uh through E. Excuse me efficient and effective through one of the following two methods. The first is providing evidence of accreditation by one or more accrediting. Organisations organised by the US Department

of health education. The second is by a full curriculum review. Um, the last time that the school committee, um approved a school, it was Penguin Hall. That was before my time, But. Like I said. We had lots of notes on that They did not have an accreditation and that it was required that the

superintendent do a full curriculum review. Um, North Shore Christian School, As, I said, is already an existing school, Um in Beverly, and they are accredited by NIA. As are we So. They provided that, um, accreditation to us. Um So Um, I guess Maybe that was a lot of information, but maybe we could

start with emotion. And, then we can have discussion. Um So. I’m just wondering where the My first meeting. And. The school committee was Accepting the Academy of Penguin Hall. Excuse Me, so I actually don’t know. What, the official like languages that we Ex. Uh, it is so if you it’s um Uh, approve.

It’s approved. Prove the full Just in general. Um for what purpose it It really just says. Our policy just says we’ll approve a private school. Actually, the state law is right there, too, so that might be helpful to us. Um Try. I’ve been trying to get that language it says approving private school on the state

website as well of a standards for approval of private schools. So we could say like approving. This will to move into our community. Actually just improving. And its program, not not the move. So. Yeah and and and my understanding. Um from reading the state law is that

basically all we are saying is that if a student in our community were attending this school, we would not say that that student is truant. I see, So. My only concern was this accreditation letter is from 2021, and they should have a current 1 2023. It’s every two years. I think it’s every 10?

No, it’s every 10 0. I thought, they said. Yeah, that they had to do it again, IN two years in the letter, they, Eric. You will know right? They do things every two years is a 10 year total process. There are series of reports that get submitted. So like Brian just finished.

The first report a year later than three years. You do another report. And. Then five years. You do another report. Um, so it’s just a series of reports, but the whole window is a 10 year accreditation. That’s all I need to know. You just have to keep checking in

with the, uh to make sure you’re doing the things that the they call it, no substantive changes. Um Right wording, but, uh, I I moved at the Hamilton regional school. Committee except the North Shore. Christian school. Um Meets all requirements per policy. Um To operate within our district. Second Second by Jen Carr. That sounds like it.

I think so. And. I Yeah, exactly, Um OK. Um, is there further discussion on the agenda, too? I just have one more. I just have one more question. So. Do we get updated? With their accreditation process every time they That’s a great question. I. Don’t I don’t actually think we do anything continually. We certainly have never.

I’ve never seen anything about Pingree or any other school it it seems to be in its initial approval. There’s no process after that, Yeah it’s a Yeah. It’s interesting. They just They want you to approve it so that I think Dana had just said it so that Kids can attend without being truant from school under state law.

So we’re just saying, we know that schools there and we know it’s available for kids to attend. Um appropriately. It was always my understanding that is Like, the elected school board members. That Well, you know. Not under our direct purview. They technically do fall under our umbrella as meeting the state standards and, um You know whatever policies would

sort of overlap and that’s what we’re Sort of saying that we have seen this and that’s Yeah, and and I did wanna add that I did also if you read this policy that there was a part on the school committee, which is that the That. The School committee would notify the private school that they needed

to obtain the following things and it’s like certificate of occupancy, I. I did in fact. It. It only says that they will. We will notify them so I did notify them and Pam Hets, who’s the director was very Co operative and helpful and she Responded to me saying, acknowledging receipt and saying She would Pursue all of

those and IN fact noted that she did not think that they would need an elevator inspection because they won’t be having an Elevator. Um So, um So That. I did in fact, do that so Thank you for doing that? Um Right. Any other questions Discussion? Right? Looks like we’re ready to vote.

Um Right. Everyone’s clear on what we’re voting on. OK all those in favor. And that is unanimous and the motion passes and I will Let her know. OK, Uh, Next up is Eric on the Student Opportunity Act. Thank you. Um I’m gonna jump to the middle of the memo and apologize for the presentation of the report.

We literally fight Without typing the entire thing over. So, the report is is Represented as it’s represented in the portal. Um, Student Opportunity Act resets every three years. Many of you were here when we we’ve done this before. Um, it’s actually, uh It was an idea. I think nine years ago where they were trying to Give schools.

Financial incentives to Focus on kids that we’re having showing the most difficulty or were members of a group that had a larger gap. Accountability measures for schools. Last time we did this report. We had four groups. We had our so, uh especially students. RL students are low income students and our

Hispanic students. Since that time. Two of the groups have come out of Out of the the Get the gaps of close enough or their group is too small to measure which is under 20. Um, so this year and looking at the new data that the state supplied We’ve identified that special ad and low income.

Um, And. There’s a combination in there as well of both, um our our students that would Before Okasan for our Student Opportunity Act. For this next three years, so this submission will go into the state and April kicks in in the fall and for every year from this point on, just like we did last year

in the year before will submit a report of progress to see how we’re doing. On meeting The Matrix. The report is broken down by, um Kind of what? What you’re gonna do like, what’s your plan? How are you going to approach it? We’ve been working on this for for two years anyway, With the last

submission the student opportunity to report With. The addition of our family and community liaison sitting with us tonight. Uh, these are all pieces of the puzzle that we’ve used in the past to continue to meet the expectations, Stupid Student Opportunity Act and then you have to choose these

these e v. P s, which are which are supplied by the state. They give you a list and I’ll just scroll down to The. Order of this is rough to Progressive with, um So when you when you start looking at these Evidence based programs. They are a list that’s generated by the state.

So when you go into this portal There’s a whole list and you can see them in the bottom here just in focus area 11. There’s a whole bunch of that you can choose from They want you to choose from between two and three. The focus on for your

subgroups. Um so I’m gonna go back up to the top here again? Our, uh Choices were related to what we’re doing, inclusive curriculum adoption process which we’ve outlined in this report supporting curriculum in from an implementation. So the C K l, a implementation and now next year will be the math

implementation that will really take place almost from kindergarten all the way up through high school and then targeting academic support and acceleration. We’ve been doing that with our MTs s. Ah, using our assessments, tables and some of the other assessments at the Other grade levels like I ready and star Renaissance to help us to figure out where

kids sit and how they’re progressing through. Each of the the requirements if you will of accountability and which generally is measured for the state and its YMCAs for them. We are expected to also use other data measures so we do we use doubles We use I ready? We Use Star renaissance.

Um and and Also in in house assessment, so we use midterm exams. You can look at midterm exams You can look forward for, uh, full year exams, so those types of things are things that were we’ll do along this three year plan. We are also community outreach and community connections is a big

piece of this. Gen Coffield is has really come brought this along way where we’ve spent. I think she spent probably 50% of the time last year, working on trying to maintain update upgrade the website. Make sure that we gloss translation was working. Make sure that Um people were actually receiving

what they were. You should be receiving. Making connections with families to make sure they were listed in our data correctly, which is a was a problem. Um To really figure out what the home languages Was was. You know we just depended on somebody checking off a box.

Now we can dig a little bit more deeply and and and really get in there and say Okay, what language? Do. You speak at home. Some people are not willing to check that box. If. It’s not English, and it’s been. It’s been a process for us really,

to tone it on that. Make sure that the families that need the translations Can get them. We, have we have automatic translation now through all of our communications, So when you get my weekly I, get a copy of everyone that goes out. So. I get, I Think 11, different weeklies and 11 different

languages to make sure they all go out on the right way, you know, And we’ve had families say, you know, I feel like I’m part of the community because I’m getting this in my own language. Um several of our principles used Our systems even for texting families where we can use the blackboard.

Connect that we have to text and to email and to do phone calls and multiple languages, so that’s another way and then really, just reaching out when families come in Jenna’s advantage of also working with a cord so connecting them with Real real things like shelter and food and then you know,

dealing with the connections with How. They interact with social media if they do or don’t when we find is a lot of families that are non English speaking really not using social media as well. Really? Really, um Focus on you to getting an email or getting some type of message in their own language. So That’s part of

the process. Excuse me. And. Then the state supplies you with what they call a heat map. Give you a heat map? You pull up your town, and it says, Here’s where your gaps are and that’s that’s what you determine your measures from so when we start to look at our

Data if you will. The Heat maps for us identified right away just students with disabilities and students who are low income. Um and not all, but that’s the those are the biggest gaps if you will. Um The data that we’ve seen we’ve seen previously when the principles did the presentation. We did

the presentations about CAS showing the different gaps, Different levels for accountability? Um, so we’re actually just taking all this bringing it together and saying, Okay, what are our focal points? Principles are expected to connect with through their data teams. Because of MTs s program we’ve already have in place to connect their data teams have these discussions identify

specific individual kids, so are reading reading specialists who also manages our assessment at the elementary level. Julia Liniger. She will go through all the Data on our side. The doubles data identify. Areas of weakness for specific kids, individual kids and groups of kids. She will group them and

she will work with our T A s r literacy tas who are on the ground in the buildings. We have three in each building. And. Their function is to really hit interventions almost daily for any of those kids that are identified or any of those kids that are in the lower subgroups in our doubles

testing, which which Central line fairly closely with what we’re seeing in the in the in the YMCA side. Um, same with the middle school. We’re looking at How we can Ah! Do a better job with our academic support in middle school. So one of the things we’re finding in our walk throughs is S

specialized instruction is not a thing. Academic support for a lot of kids is a place where they go and they do their homework or they catch up on a project or they get help with writing a paper. Um, but but it’s not really specialized instruction. So Zach and Brian at the high school have exactly

the middle school have have looked at Ways that we can now start to help kids and and put them in specific places like you’re going to go to math. On these days. You gotta go to English on these days so that they can get specialized instruction focused on Whatever areas of weakness may show up

and that’s they’re using doubles all the way through 767 and eight grade now, and they’re also using the eye ready for the math side. So. There’s a lot of information on on kids, and, um Information that we can use as we delve through this the weird part

about the so a is, um, it was initially incentive based. For our district. We get $30 per student. Which is about 50 grand. You know we spend you know, as you see it, you can see in this report. We spend millions of dollars To gain 50 grand, You know, it’s a It’s a very interesting dynamic for a

district like ours where those were. Those subgroups are smaller than somebody like Mr of Boston, which is Really the intended recipient of money. Last year, they changed as they went through the budgeting process. Last year. It started out at $30 and ended at $60 for many communities, but not all.

This year. We’re looking to see if the same thing happens. We haven’t heard yet, And we won’t know until the budget is actually finalized for the states. All right? As of right now it’s in the current iteration as $30 per student. Um And then the The bigger piece of it is measuring it

along the way and in the three year nature of the plan, so Everything we’re doing is looking out three years, so we’ve talked about, um TSS for the past two years, saying 5 to 7 year process it all melds actually, really cleanly. And that we’ve done a number of things along the way or really

trying to make connections with people, the strategic planning process, inviting people in inviting people to be part of that the communication survey gathering all that information and trying to learn how people communicate best. What types of communications work all of our visioning sessions through the Cutler process. We invited people in to be part of those

Um SCL Parents survey just to find out how kids are doing and how families are doing, and that’s been helpful, really in in finding different ways to support families and students, both in and out of school. Part of that SCL survey has helped us to identify wraparound services, which we Ah, have up

until the end of this year available through the s or money is that that were previously that we previously had we were able to to book wraparound services for families that really in need. Um Outside of school, so that’s helpful and it’s It’s really grand base if you will, so That’s a that’s a and also

another way to making making connections, school and prayer improvement planning really always connects back to the same things. We’re talking about. MTs s, um, working on making sure our kids are getting what they need in the classroom. Curriculum is a is a big deal. We made a shift huge

shift C K l A and I think teachers didn’t mag magnificent job. Um, getting this up and running, getting a new curriculum up and running off the ground is not easy. It’s like, you know, every day for that first year is a new thing. Um so that you’re seeing it more You’re looking at really

how the different ways people have adapted to the curriculum and and trying to kind of make it their own. Last week we brought in. Excuse me. Two weeks ago we brought in a representative from C k L A to walk through our classrooms and identify any spots where they saw things may or may not be

working and realistically, that those types of reports will help us to go back to India. Both principles and individual grade level teachers to say Okay, Here’s what we have we notice. Here’s what we identified to just make sure that we’re doing everything with Fidelity. Our Friends groups are really great way to

communicate with families they tend to have Big push and connections with with a lot of the families and then our director of student services working with our CPAC group. Our CPAC is small. Be saying, We call it small and mighty. They were the ones who actually covered the cost, along with

some help from the local police and fire of yesterday’s presenter, carry Magro. Preneurs Diversity week. And, then, um, we have we have our director of student services also responsible for R L students who Don’t really fall into this plan, but they always kind of stay in the front of our brains to say, Okay.

How are they doing and what’s what’s going well, We do have an L teacher at the elementary level and a half time l teacher at the high school level Middle school high school level. Something that we haven’t had in the past. So that’s that’s also another way to make connections and make sure kids

are getting some of the interventions that they need. And then really this this process is identifying your e. B P s and then laying out what the district is doing, and a lot of this is happening right now. That we we literally I don’t know how she does it. But Jen Clifford is running three

different curriculum processes to identify. Um, which That is the best math curriculum for us for elementary level and middle school, mostly But. Also looking at, um A at the middle school level as well, and that’s a pretty extensive process that you work with the state to look at research based

materials and understanding. Ah, what makes sense for standard alignment. What makes sense for assessments so they could be going through this process for months working with the state and then, uh, Trying to look at district data versus the state requirements and and trying to meld the two And so that we can

have Really solid tier one curriculum and that was our goal for seek LA and you see that in action now. The Tier one curriculum tier one curriculum materials really important like that’s what every kid gets every day. And. Then the second piece of it is they’re also looking like, how

else can we meet the tier two kids that smaller group that might need a few more interventions, which is where I am TSS program comes into place, So. We’re working on those things and we’ll have those done. For next year. So by the end of this year, we’ll have made our quote choices and get

our materials together and get those up and running. And then it will be just a process of making sure everybody’s trained and everybody understands what’s happening. And, then, um, we’ll continue to look at things like Monitoring YMCAs and one of the things we learned in talking with teachers and students about taxes. Several of the younger

kids like third graders especially had never seen the tools. That they use on the cast. So the first time they saw the tools in some places and some areas. Where were the first time they sat in front of the test. A. Huge disadvantage, which is a you know, it’s not.

It has nothing to do with With it. You’re Skills. It has to do with just understanding how all these tools work and they’re available for you throughout the testing process, So now we’re kind of back that up in our helping kids to see that and identify that on and how to use those tools before they get

to the test, So we think that will be extremely helpful. And then, um, really looking at everything across the district, This isn’t focused at any particular level. It’s not focused on any particular grade. We’re looking across the district. Really keep an eye out and wide open for any of the things that come up with

our with our gap closing processes if you will. And it will continue. We’ll continue to look at all the things like at the high school middle the math support blogs when you go to the high school during power block, there are kids specifically assigned Two math teachers, um, to get assistance

where they need it, and they are, you know, they’re math teachers can say you know what? Eric, You need to go to support during power block with so and so and they get them in there. They use Panorama, which we bought a year and a half ago to

track how these kids are doing so they’ll put a plan in place and they’ll track that student every time they come in. So. It’s. It’s really a good opportunity for us to continue to Keep an eye on what’s happening with our kids. We are seeing a lot of progress at the high school level with, um, our

ninth and 10th and then the Star renaissance for his new for us this year, so really used trying to use that in the best way possible. Um And then the again the high school level is also specialized instruction. Academic support. Same thing. Kids go there. They were doing their homework. They’re getting

kind of assistance, writing a paper. We need to look at ways over the next three years. Process of S O a to say Okay, how can we better support specialized instruction in those time periods so that kids can see something that they may be learning or expected to learn in their math class and maybe a different way?

Different approach, also looking at their their own goals that are based on built into their trips and aligning that with the things that are going on For soas at the same time. Talks about fund allocation and measurements so you can see all the measurements that we have, uh,

were expected to use them cast as the requirement of state using cast as one of your measures, Okay doubles 83 times a year. ELA and math curriculum based assessments and then similar for the middle school doubles 82 times a year already, Matt I’m cast Matthew L A and curriculum based assessments

and then The star mounts greener and for ninth and 10th grade at the high school, English and math, curriculum based assessments and YMCAs for yellow and math. And each year, the state We’ll set targets. We’ve chosen to just use the state targets because that’s what we’ve Consistently been using, Um and that will be the

way that were measured over time. State will give us a new heatmap next year and say Okay, Let’s look at that and see where we’re making progress or not. So that’s what this is all about. And, um Interestingly complex for 50 grand, but it’s It’s, uh, it’s just the way the The system functions and in the

realm again, I don’t it really is designed for some of the larger scale supercool systems that have Huge numbers of kids in these gaps that they’re trying to close. Take any questions or Um What was the survey response because I got the survey for the s. So. I did you get a good response? It’s

pretty. It’s usually pretty limited. We get. We get a lot of response from families with students with disabilities. Which is great because they are brutally honest about their child’s experience, which is helpful for us so Stacey can sit down with her people. And and look at that and use it to

say Okay, this is something that looks consistent across the survey, so it was the same way last year we had We had, really, um, subgroups where the people who responded which was interesting to us, but It’s good information. It’s just good information for us to know to say when a parent says, You

know, Mike, I feel like my kids not not making a connection with the teacher? How. Do I improve that. That’s a good thing for us to know so that you know. Ninth grade. They can make a direct connection. Make sure that the school counselor knows make sure that the teachers understand and then

make a plan for that, so The detailed survey. I thought it was great. Um And then My. Second question is when Is reporting required on this every year every year time, So Okay, so will will. Taken cast coming up the next couple of months across the district. Very exciting, but it’s that’s the measure we’re using, and Um,

once we get those results back, that will be the next round of Kind of okay where kids are at Um we feel like we’ll see some some pretty good shifts in that. As. You know the Cotler school was the lowest out of the elementary schools on their accountability measures, but We

put some things in place at that at the school. Juliana’s on a good job it really in her coach have done a good job at trying to make sure that interventions are consistent shifting. Um times when interventions are occurring for certain grade groups and things like that, so It’s, uh, it’s an

annual report. It’s much more concise. It’s really like, Okay. How are they doing? Do you need to change anything. What would you change? Why should I say thank you for this because I know that we have had So a Reports in the past that we’re just like a list of bullet points that we’re not as

details. That didn’t actually explain anything. So. I really appreciate this level of detail, and I love that we’re actually seeing what you are submitting. So I appreciate that as well. I know that It’s so cumbersome like, I think a lot of us have done State or federal grants in

this room, and this is the appreciate. Yeah software They changed to recently. Of course It’s not printable. Of course It’s not like you know, you can’t download it and put it in pdf. I mean like, obvious, of course not like why would they make it easy, Interesting way, But it worked. I think it

worked, So. I just appreciate that level of detail. So thank you. Okay. Other questions. Okay. Um and we do need, um, a vote. Correct? Yes. We need a vote and I’ll. Do we have a You have specific wording you need It’s really just to approve the S O A for the April 2024

submission. I moved at the Hamiltonian. Um regional school district vote to accept the D C Student Opportunity Act, Um, April 2024 submission as presented Second Second by gender. Are there. Is there any further discussion? Questions. Right. Looks like we’re ready to vote. Right all those in favor. And that is unanimous and the motion passes.

Will submit it on April 1st. Great. Thank you for that. Um, next up the agenda item, says Negotiations subcommittee discussion. I know that David Plato Mentioned this at the last meeting. Um So. We just so normally, um So the Elections are coming up soon And normally after the election, we would, um and we will, um,

reconstitute the board and we would Decide on subcommittee assignments and we will do and we still will. But. Um, David and I discussed at that We are subcommittee of two and as we begin, um, negotiations with the teachers we feel, um We need or we would like to bring to the committee that we’d like

to have a third. Um David. I don’t know whether you have much to add much to add. I mean it’s a It’s A. It’s a big ask attendance is From the committee members. It’s kind of a A big part of what? We’re looking for this. Um because of

one of us right now, if one of us isn’t able to attend. Um, we can’t actually hold a meeting and that’s problematic. Um, we’ve been meeting on Mondays, but we have a meeting. We have a meeting on we met last Friday tomorrow. I mean, tomorrow.

Um, I’m actually looking up now we so we’re looking at a lot of afternoons were looking for 25th And then we’re And then we have a Tuesday. We’re doing every other Do it on Monday, the first And, then I know we have a Tuesday coming up. Tuesday, the ninth Yep.

April. Yeah, that’s what we have on next meetings. Yeah. Tomorrow. Monday. The 25th Monday the first and then Tuesday, the night tomorrow is just so not to get too in the weeds, but some some are on most are in person. Some are on zoom when we just so tomorrow where it’s just a strategy meeting.

We’re not meeting with the union. Um So anyway, David, take it away. I mean, what do you want to do The dates? Well? No, I mean in terms of, um it sounded like you have had some interest from some people so not to volunteer anybody now, But? Um, David and

Jen both, um Said that they’d be willing to help out. So. I don’t know how we necessarily want to handle that. Uh um. You know you have a subcommittee of four. Excuse me. Could you have a subcommittee of four with a seven member board. Trust me.

I would love to know that would be wonderful, but we and we actually Talked about the logistics of that that we cannot because that would be a majority of the committee and so Be cool, right? Yeah. I can I can meet Mondays? Um But time on Tuesday. That would be 330 to 3630 till Yeah, Success

could Be there, but not until four. Friday’s is a There’s no way That one Friday. Tomorrow I wouldn’t be able to make it. Okay? Um, yeah, I mean, it’s a It’s a big ask. We Yeah, but I can do Mondays. No problem. I don’t have any classes on

Mondays, OK? I can do. I mean, I’m flexible. And in my time Uh um. Yeah. I think we probably would want to go with the flexible Then just because it has been lining up that it’s a Mondays, but it’s not sort of written in stone. I do appreciate You know And Who knows After this I could step

off this board at any time, and it has been a long year. Um, but Um No. I think this for the convenience sake. Like! I said. Everything has been lining up right now. Moving into the next Um Teachers contract. Um Well. We’re actually bringing Mark Terry back into the room to

help Facilitate everything so his schedule is dedicating some of our Like needs to Be flexible because he’s at like seven. Things that he’s doing struggling right now. So, um, that’s why It has been consistently Monday, but I could see it sort of After the first week in May. I’m free all

the time. That help after the election. Alright. So I Think, um for the short term, but it probably makes most sense for to just go with David here, but I really do appreciate you. Well, I think. Yeah. I mean? I think, um, I think we do, Um I

mean David and I, David Alito and I definitely Talked about We would value All of you. We Wish, you know, Um, although the logistics of that would be a nightmare, Um Um So, um, I, do think if we’re going to move someone onto the committee, we actually need a vote. So.

It. Sounds like you’re ready to make a nomination or a vote. I mean, is that Yeah? Yeah secretary secretary anyway so I, don’t I don’t want to. I mean So. I moved that. I nominate David Frankel, um, to join the negotiations subcommittee Do we have a 2nd 2nd. Second by Amy Come Burger minimalist.

That’s good. Motion there. Yeah. That was good. Um, do you want to have further discussion? I think it’s um Are you sure? No, I’m just saying and again because I know you are not one to shy down from an argument over here. I just want to make sure that if you’re okay, want to be an all three committees

if I can avoid it, That’s why I wanted to be a negotiation. So I was like I’m already on two. So. That’s how I felt I volunteered a lot and you’re the chair of finance. I actually, I’m glad that you I’m okay with this you are okay, because I Was not going to step

in and speak for myself, but it is a concern like no, I totally get it. Like I said, I Volunteered, just in case. Nobody else said Excellent. Thank you and thank you to both of you for being willing to Step up. It’s a lot, um All, right? Is there any other? Do?

You have questions? David. You feeling? I? Guess I’m gonna say Are you sure? Yeah? She said No. I’m fine. I’m fine. Okay? Are. We ready to vote. Okay, um, all those in favor. Right, and that is unanimous. Um Thank you, David and thank you, Jen. Um And, uh, Yeah. Get ready? Okay.

Regret it later. This is It’s actually very interesting it. It does get a little stretchy like everything else we do. Interesting. Definitely That’s true. Yes. Um, it’s important. Yes. It isn’t true. It’s, um, the budget, right? It is. Next up is the town meeting fire and I am going to turn information

over to Amy and Eric. I’m not sure where you guys want to start doing. I’m gonna start. Sure. The, um And your town meetings coming up on April 6th, and we always put together a one page flyer, too. Kind of give the highlights if you will of the budget, and, um we kept

with the same color themes as last year. It’s uh It’s really a me. Did the work of trying to fit everything in and make all the pieces of the puzzle fit. Really tried to cover the bases and put as much information as we could on here. Um, because there’s not a lot of big shifts

in the budget presentation this year. Unlike last year and the year before where we’ve had, like big asks and Some things to shift around. But in this budget process discovers our Operating our excess and deficiency and total revenues on the front and we broke it out the E and D and how we’re

using it. Um So that people so it’s clear for people. Uh, big quote the proposed operating budget increases 1.13%. This represents the lowest increase in 10 years, which was a call from Dana from the actual budget book. Which you know, we want to make sure we we highlight that because I still

think That’s an important piece of the conversation as we move into Talk about fields, talk about school buildings and where the money will go and then in the backside, um, gonna make this a little bit smaller, Really taking a look at all of our debt and each of the items are the current debt amounts

that we are. Um Including in the assessment for next year. So if you go into the budget book, you’ll see it debt. You know 2,000,066 694. And we’ve tried to break it out so that people understand, um, where it came from. One suggestion we got already. That is a good suggestion is actually adding

the dates. On, you know, like the Cutler roof summer 2018 2013 project. Okay, that’s understandable, but Winthrop sprinkler system replacement. Somebody could say Wait a minute isn’t the word Winthrop part of the conversation of the new schools, so we’ll put some dates on there. That makes sense. Um, another thought I had in the middle of the night.

Driving home was the bottom part where we have the feasibility and the athletic field. Um, websites. We may put a just a quick description of here’s where we’re at in a couple lines and then add a Q R code so that people can just Click the flyer and go see whatever they want to see.

But we’re we brought here as a draft. Where did definitely Open to any discussions, and I mean I can go back to it. And Amy can actually just do the drawings and beautiful drying. Send them. Send pictures by phone. Um, thank you for doing this. Um, I know how I got this.

Is to lay out at times. Um I have a couple of quick thoughts, though on the front Excuse me, um just sort of the Um, operating budget and then access and efficiency and then total revenue. Um I’d be afraid that people might Fake that he and total revenue are in addition to the total operating

budget, um because they’re all given equal weight, right? Um And Yeah, you know, so like they don’t realize that, like pulling out, um That E N D In the total revenue are just parts of the overall budget. Excuse me. And then sort of on the back. That debt again Looks

like it’s. In addition, it’s not sort of pulled out of anywhere. Um Because even that that confused me when I first looked at it, and Theoretically, I know this budget inside and out. Um, So again, it looks like it’s sort of Think more. Things that someone would have to pay. In addition to the

operating budget. Um The debt is, but I think it’s better job. Of, explaining what that means People. Right. This isn’t like they’re voting to take on additional debt. This is correct, right? Oh. Yeah. I mean we put put Preapproved debt. Ah, yeah, because well when you know When Vinnie does

that you know the slide that’s got the two towns and it and it goes, you know, it is split like this is the operating budget. This is the debt. Um So presumably, that’ll be. Yeah, I I mean the debt is it’s not new. What. It is it is separate authorized. We could

preauthorized Yeah. You’re gonna have Yeah, well, the reason I was the one that suggested the date mostly mostly because I didn’t want Uh um. Like if you were, you know, didn’t weren’t aware of like, Let’s say the Winthrop Sprinkler system replacement. I didn’t want some a citizen to

be thinking This was brand new because you’re thinking. Wait a minute is now the best time to replace the Winthrop sprinklers. Right. So yeah, we want to make sure Is it In some ways it looks like traditionally when we put these out, it’s what we’re asking. Correct? Yeah.

So. We don’t want to make it sound like we’re asking for an additional Um $2 million in debt exclusion, its existing debt or Yeah. You know if we could sort of lay it out. Just as um You know operational and that You know, um, just as like

a function of what it costs to run the district. Yeah, I like that? That’s It’s. I like that. It’s that this is these are the things you’ve already signed on for these things we’re doing already existing Good. How is this going to be presented? Is this going to literally be Um,

printed and then typically, it’s a flyer on like at the table or on your chair at town meeting, so this would not be something that would be Emailed out in Vance. I think I put it that we can be on the website. Yeah. I usually put on my weekly and when that goes out

my reason for asking, that is If it’s something that is going to be handed out. I think that Replacing the U R. L s with Q R code would be a good idea. Um and then to to your point around like the definition of terms. Um There would be an

opportunity to have a You know this is what these terms mean? Because I don’t think that this is Normal nomenclature for individuals that run a household budget, right? Excess and deficiency what That means. And so if we were to have a, you know a just definition of

terms, you know, Q R that you could go to To say, you know. This is what this is What that means this is what that means. That might get around some of the difficulties and understanding It’s gonna do it is and I like the idea of

having it be a QR code, So it’s not cluttering up this You know, because it is, um, because there really are. I mean I I know just from the past couple of years going to town meeting there really are a lot of people walking in And. This is their first. Yeah, and they’re really just looking for a

general like You know, um Yeah. I think the back side we can kind of treat as Almost an educational piece. We could define some terms. We could just say Here’s a little insight into our debt and projects that we have ongoing like. It was kind of give that headline and then all that information would make sense QR

codes to more info about these projects. I think the back could just we can pretty up the term debt to put flowers around. People concerned. I mean people are concerned, but is the average person Thinking about this because I was thinking what you were saying. We normally go to them with the

ask And, then they’re like, Okay. What’s this going for? Like, what’s the what? You know they want to know. What. Have we accomplished. What are we looking to do your absolutely right. Usually the front pages like This budget is going to get us X Y and Z but because and I like the idea that you

put the quote there because the idea is the budget is a very small increase, and that’s the that’s what we’re saying, right? That’s the story, whereas you’re right. Usually. The story is we’re asking for this increase. And this is what You know, Um yeah. Because the I mean that debt. I mean the

Cutler feasibility study is on there, and that is Fresh in people’s mind a lot of these other things are not fresh in people’s mind. They’re older. That was Eric’s idea about It was a good idea, Quote. Because it was such an interesting quote from me, so I just want

to make a note. There’s a typo would love my name under it. I don’t think I ever had it right now. 1.13 when I was chair, Um there is a typo. There’s a space missing between and 10. Mm. Super embarrassing. Um, draft, Okay? Yeah. Um, I did

want to also just comment that I actually For me. I really liked that it Um That. It was similar, like the colors were similar to last year. I actually think that I don’t know for me. I like that. It felt familiar like Um, I’m not sure how many people in the public will remember. Like, Oh

last year they kept it bastard. Framed it. Yeah, but I get the point. You made David about the like putting the A and D and other Revenue like That should be under the headline of the total budget. Just totally. Yep, smaller or something? No. You’re getting all of this. What. This is only 1.13.

There’s more Should I pay what you get, like an emoji Shelve our avatars avatar bit emojis on there. The only other question I would ask about. It is if the If the big story is 1.13% increase. The the only place that shows up isn’t the quote. Like it. There’s not like this is what it was last

year, and this is what it was this year. Um And that doesn’t mean that’s not to say that we should add that it’s just to say if that is the message. Um There’s a. There’s an opportunity to To make that more. Um, explicit. It’s funny because I hate that. That’s the message. I hate it, but it is

what it is. I mean, this is how you know I agree with you. That has to be the message. We, you know, but I I don’t like that. That’s the message. I think you know, cutting this? Cutting down to the bone shouldn’t be the goal and then we all know

this. Um, And. Unfortunately, this is you know what We We have to do to get it passed, but Um So. That doesn’t help you with what you said. But I just I think it’s a fantastic message, and I’m so proud of the work that we did to get

there, But I hate that we have to Be proud that we can’t spend more money, you know, because we would love to if we could. Planning for the future. Right. Exactly. You gotta play the long game here. So you’re saying you want to make it like a bigger message or more saying

that like if if that is the overarching message that we want to put in front of people, I think that the the kind of visual story that’s told here I think is wonderful, right? It kind of leads you through. Two more and more detail on the right from larger things on the left. But if I’m if I’m

following that, the only place that I see the the overarching stories in that quote Um, as opposed to Seeing a. You know, last year it was this this year. It’s that Um But that’s only if that’s the purpose of it or the message that we want to convey.

It’s a message You want to convey I I. Don’t know I not sure I’m thinking about that? Yeah. You have thoughts on that any. Um, Yeah? I think the way that it’s working for me visually is I’m looking at the title on the top left and it’s right underneath, and it’s the

only large body of text on the page. I don’t think it will be missed. I feel like the purpose of this is to give Folks, the intro they need on what they’re voting on. So I don’t know. But I defer to like the overall message you want to send. On what they’re The main purposes.

Yeah like the actual budget itself. Yeah, first, both right? And, you and you have people in the room that are paying attention and have been paying attention for many, many years. And, then you have others that That again, A said walked in the room for the first time. Not. Sure. What? What exactly.

I voted for so We can look at trying to figure out a way to comparative like just to quickly. I’m not saying that we should just saying that I think that if that’s the message that you’re looking for, like the part like the Hambleton assessment, part If. I didn’t know what the numbers were last

year. The thing that means makes most sense to me as the pie chart right because I’m able to say like, Well, what is this? Right. What. Does it look like between the two of them, right? Maybe we do? Maybe we do it that way. Do it fy 24. Assessment versus an FY 25 assessment. Side by side.

Is that I don’t know. Interesting point like that. The assessment has changed a little bit between Last year and this year Yeah right. It’s more write, it becomes more because it’s different for each different. Yeah because all the revenues are subtracted out, and I will. I will reiterate right having done these for years, I really

do think the message is how much We’re buying. At such a You know, low income. Hmm. I like Um Yeah, I like, However, these are listed. I am. Again. I just just a few things that I think this visually that you could change just so people that are tied Everything

together is like we’re asking you for all of this money. We’re asking you for 9 million more on the front and we’re asking for two, but you’re like, No. You’re getting it all. We’re already there. Yep. That’s the easiest Yahoo one a little smaller, maybe lower down a little share a little design trick to you Might David

Plato, you might agree or disagree, we say in the biz that where someone holds something in their hands by their thumbs is a really like primo spot in a hierarchy because you like naturally, look at where your hand is. Yeah. David Franklin has a copy in person. So it is a powerful

spot the layout, but that’s This. Designer talk? No, that’s it’s helpful, and I actually think I think this conversation is real like for me? At least It’s really helpful like I But like what trends Side was really helpful to think about whether or not it ends up actually being on the page.

It’s really helpful to be really mindful of thinking about like, what’s the story Is that like that was really helpful for me to start thinking about like, Yeah. Is that what we want to say, Do we want to say the year to year or is it enough to just say I’m actually leaning towards that

it’s actually enough to just say like 1.13%. Sort of speaks for itself what I mean considering inflation is pretty amazing, You know, but but I think it. I’m really glad that we have out. That was good, like made me really made me think about Right. What is the story do some comparatives like

I will show some of the charts we have in the budget book. So that kind of underscore the things are going on. Like, okay, Well, why did you cut 6.5 staff members, not teachers, staff members. Um, well, we’re seeing continued reduced. No population at the secondary level. But. On the other hand,

we’re seeing an increase in the elementary level so I’ll be able to stitch those pieces together in the presentation on town meeting floor. Um, So. Are we looking for an approval here? Are. We looking to give you guys are you bind because the moderators want these the week before. Okay, which is is

really the latest I can get it to them is, um, a week from Monday. So it might be that what you’re looking for from us is potentially authorization to We can make the changes notes and You will prove it. That’s what You mean like Yeah. That’s what I’m saying? I think so?

But that’s what I’m saying giving. We could vote to give them I just keep going. So I can put your picture on it. Hmm. Please do use one from like, 10 years ago. Okay, Um what you wish for? We’ll find a good one. That’s why I was so happy to get home. Okay. You want to do

sure? Yeah. Um do we feel like we need a, um Do you feel like we need to vote on that? Where do we feel like we just don’t think so. Consensus in the room that, like generally, this isn’t the right direction and To be one of the A reinstate

the change the overall changes or are we good? I have notes. You have notes notes too. So super Just, making sure everybody’s feeling okay. Okay? All right. Thank you both. Thank you. Next up, it says discuss school committee retreat, but, um Hmm. My. Real goal was just talk about the

potential date. We can talk about what they can retreat what you might be looking for in a retreat later. Um, I just want to start a conversation. We don’t have to pick a date today, but I’m looking for I have not picked dates. I just wanted to sort of have a

conversation of You know we’ve had, um, typically had US one day summer retreat. Hmm. Uh and we’ve just found that the sooner you start putting things on the calendar, the more likely it is that everybody will actually be Um, in attendance, So. My real intent was just to talk about what

kind of dates I say it ever. I say it all The time. I was just at a planning meeting last night and I said, it’s always easier to put it on the calendar that it’s taken off, and I thought. There’s David Polito at summer. It’s Because Dante’s baseball scale. It’s like I can plan anything.

I want exactly ruin it. So. Um so I! Guess um so two things one. I love it if we could just sort of generally talk about dates if we can sort of throw some things out there and get Back. You know we can and again. Scheduling is something we can do over email. So You know, we

can have an email back and forth. And then separately. I would love it if people Are, you know, have ideas about things that you like to achieve at a summer retreat. Um Go ahead and start shooting those ideas this way. Um You know thoughts about that. So I mean I don’t even know where to

begin. But like when I I should have written it down. What. I don’t know when we did it last year. It was August. I think we tried to do it before right before we Before our first meeting, I believe was that in August as well, Um, August 5th.

So, um Just. Generally. What do people think about in the summer? Are we going to be looking at a weekend? Are we During the week. Nunes. August 5th last year was a weekend wasn’t it? Saturday Saturday, and I think we did? I Can’t remember we had lunch, so it must have been like We don’t 92

or something like that. Um So so just saying that it was August 5th is I mean we can put that out there, as like the equivalent would be August 3rd or the first day of school. Is it before Labor Day after Labor Day first day of school Very Milton next year, the perfect year. Yeah next year Perfect

Year, the first step school will be the third. Okay, so that’s what it’s late, Perfect year. Perfect here we did. The calendar was like everything is lined up regularly. Yep, um, I mean for me. I like early August, but alright, so like, and I these I’m really just looking for dates that I’m

going to put out in an email to you guys and say, I don’t know what everyone has for, like, so going away or anything like that Saturday. I can’t do August 3rd Saturday Saturday, Okay, I I 100% can’t do that. That’s my pick up early on early August, but that’s the

day I have to go pick up my son at camp. I know that, okay? Um 10. Alright. We definitely want to do a Saturday Well. That’s my That’s another question is Do. You want me to throw out some dates that are not Saturdays or Sundays? I can’t

do the 10th for the 17th. So okay? Um What about Friday’s for people. I don’t know. I just have a flexible schedule, so I’m the worst to ask. I just need a heads up. If. It’s a weekday so I can get someone to what I have other people’s

schedules are very firm or if Jen has, you know, summer stuff. Most of us have some summer flexibility is that accurate? Yeah. Um like August 9. Maybe anything this summer, Okay, won’t work out. But Right now the plan is doing nothing. I literally have pick up calling it camp at all I have to throw

out some dates around that first couple of weeks in August. I’ll send it out in an email and we can kind of see what works and then meantime, if people are willing to sort of think about What would feel productive. Um During that time, Um That would be helpful information. Right. Thank you? Thanks for coordinating that.

Okay. I know, just for the, um, July 31st or July 30th 31st that whole week. I’m at a conference. But, um Starting. The fifth should be okay for me. If If we wanted to stick with August or, you know we can go into July. Whatever people want. We’ll probably do leadership retreat to the ninth 30th.

I think that’s the dates were playing with Of July. Yeah. Okay. Is it helpful for us to meet before then, as for retreat doesn’t matter. That’s actually more community. To me. That’s not really because we usually do the work. Yeah, bring to you. That’s what we did last year was you met just

a little bit before that was Alright. Good. Good. All right, I will so I’ll get I’ll just and maybe I’ll You know, put out all of those dates in the first couple of weeks in August, and we can sort of see what the group The group says. Um All

right. Thank you. Um I don’t think we have anything on finance and operations. Is that true How. Nice for you Break. Because We know we’re fun. Um okay. Um committee reports Capital Finance. Um And it’s not here. I can report on our last meeting. I can find my notes. Okay. We met on March

11th. And reviewed six capital improvement projects. Boiler work. And one of the schools, but I didn’t in all five. Okay, um, asbestos tile abatement. Playground surfacing. Ah! Bus purchase potential, um, window replacement in the administrative building and then window replacement at Miles River. Uh, we went through the pros and cons of each of these, and rank ordered.

What. Our recommendations. Where for prioritization. Um, and the first was Boiler work and playground resurfacing. Um Because boiler work was going to be deferred maintenance that could potentially lead to much larger costs. Playground servicing was because it’s a safety issue and then a window replacement administrative building also was because of a safety issue. Those were our

first order of business. Second was asbestos tile abatement and then, uh, Below that was the bus purchase and then window replacement at Miles River. That was mainly a cosmetic concern, so it was lowest on R and R recommendation list. We’re meeting again on April 22nd. Okay? All right.

Thank you for that. Um, anybody have any questions? Did you approve a whole list of minutes while you were there. I’m. I’m reading from the minutes that I talked they were. I think they were only one missing. Those minutes actually are the only ones who is missing Agenda item on on my minute was approval of

minutes get approved, Alright, and that’s not even that was on march 11th. So That’s not even doesn’t even count as missing because it’s Less than 30. Days. Finally not missing minutes wasn’t even at that meeting minutes so I can submit them. Um okay. Policy. You know I have a question about the asbestos abatement. Was it.

Eric. Was there any specific trigger? Event that led to that particular asbestos abatement. Or is this just part of the routine. Gradually getting rid of all the asbestos over time. Yeah routine is only three more classrooms left in Bucher. We did the wing at the very end last year, and it’s just the

remainder to Completely. Abate the tile. Okay. Thank you. Alright. Well While. We’re asking questions. I had a question about the windows. You It sounded like there was some windows at the that you prioritize near the top and some windows that you prioritize near the bottom. Yes. So. Um they’re windows in the administrative building that apparently spontaneously close.

Yes. I think that’s true fallout and fallout. Yeah, that’s another benefit of negotiations. It’s also very cold. So while we were, uh, ranking. These, Um, safety was a primary concern. And then and then I. Another. One was cosmetic issue at most of the windows in the middle school.

Yeah, and so that was not a safety issue was window foggy, a energy issue. Probably, but the safety Okay? So if we can afford them all, then that’s great. No, thank you for thank you. I appreciate it. Um okay. Anybody have anything else on that. Okay policy. No progress

other than The one motion that we’re supposed to put on the agenda. I. Don’t know I’m coming right at an upcoming meeting. Okay? Yeah, you and I could talk about that. Yeah. Okay about that. Negotiations. So. We have a new member. Really? Who. Is it exciting news? Um, we met Monday and, um,

with the Office personnel, and we have another meeting with them scheduled in Yeah 1st 1st Excuse me. Tomorrow we begin our strategy session for our first meeting on Monday with the Um Teachers. So, the big one getting right into it. What? What. What time. Is that right, so I know that’s 330. It’s on

Zoom 3 33 30 Tomorrow Tomorrow 330 on zoom 330 in person. I’ll send you the link. Okay. Thank you planning on touching base with you after? Okay, Thank you. Yes, So. That’s What’s going on? Um I don’t know if You guys have any moved it all with we

have Reach out twice asked them for dates and have been put on hold. So. We are we’re on hold there. Were any in a bit of a hurry and that things have slowed down a little bit. We’re targeting the first or second week in April to kick off.

Even heard back from They asked me, Rob. Okay? Okay, um and right back to you, David on the Oh. Unless anybody have any questions for negotiations? Alright and then Secretary report. Um we just cleared up a whole bunch of capital finance, and it looks other than that. There’s a Fuel from the policy committee. 10. Two of them are

the same 1 10 1 22 and then 17. 24, which is a home 10 1 22 is the only thing I have sort of missing. From policy. Okay, okay. Thank you very much. I. Appreciate that and I appreciate. Um everyone doing the work to get us Um all kata clean sleep. It’s nice, um, so

excited. Okay, Um To you, Eric. Okay. Few items on the list this evening. I’m excited to announce that Jennifer Hunt has accepted the position as Cutler school principal pending negotiations. We did the first round of negotiations today and Will go fine. Are a tentative start date will be July 1 2024.

That’s Our annual Start date for for our administrative contracts. I want to thank the entire Cutler community participating in the interview process. Both, the parent groups and the Teacher groups, the leadership team. The feedback for me was invaluable and making decisions that candidates were Really neck and neck as we got into the final

two. And then, um Give you a little bit of information about Jennifer Hunt. She’s She has a combined 10 years of experience as an elementary administrator. 13 years of elementary school teaching in a fully inclusive classroom. The principal of West Elementary School and over which has an enrollment of 565 students for the last five

years. Before that she was principal Clark Elementary School in swamps Good. She believes in the importance of building strong relationships within the school community through communication and fostering a sense of belonging while creating trust. She also served in the past as a cultural competency committee for for four years in and over,

and she started the chair of the cultural Inclusion Awareness and Opportunity Committee, working closely with the school community and families to create diverse cultural learning experiences for all Um, you know the one thing I think is important is the thing that pushed Jennifer over the top of her relationships and connections

to everybody she met. I mean even we walked through classrooms and Um, even with kids. It was it was instant so We’re excited to have her. She’s very excited to be here. That was, you know, one of the The loudest responses I’ve had to a job offer over the phone and excited about that.

And she’s you know, we met this morning and she’s still You know, really, really excited to get going, so we are excited to welcome her to the team and look forward to the progress will be able to make out the Cutler. Ah, we are in the process of interviewing custodians for an open night

position. We’re just about finished there. Um We’re also starting next week to interview candidates for the open, director of facilities, maintenance and operations, meaning I’ll handle that next week. And hopefully be able to come forward with a candidate out of that process. We have Get, uh, about it doesn’t applicants between school

Spring and LinkedIn and Um and out the pile to people who had specifically school experience and some of the things that we’re looking for. In our in our in our job description that we posted and It looks pretty good. It looks it looks promising, so excited to get that started next week and then

this past week. I don’t know if this is on your list. I’m sorry if I take it away from you. We, uh, completed the safety Charette for the Cutler project, And basically what that is the Charette the fancy word for meeting. Um so the police in

fire in both towns, team members J C J P. M, a members of the district. Dana was there. We really took the opportunity to work with consultant for J C. J. Who Does the safety, Um, development like egress, um, access Fire control’s, uh, Sprinkle controls. Fire laying around the building Safety glass in a you know, we’re

bollards. Get Posted. Those are the the concrete post in the ground in front of entries and exits, So it was a good opportunity to hear about. Some of the things that our team is thinking about. In the development of one of the projects and Um, it was good for them to connect with the

fire department because even things like the size of the hose coupling that they use I would have never thought of. But that’s an important piece of the puzzle when you’re putting in, you know, a hose attachment within so many feet of the building. So it was it was interesting. It was our

second We did the sustainability one a couple weeks ago, and this one is is safety and What happens is once we shift into design phase when they actually know what we’re going to do, then they get deeper into it. No, invite everybody back again for more deep, deep conversation about

what the expectations are for, like the fire enunciator panel communications to police and fire from the building’s emergency things, things that have to do with security and lockdown, so it’ll get much more complex. As. We move into it, but it was fun. It was interesting. And. I think that

is all I have on my list tonight. A. Couple of extra questions that can you just comment on where you are with the survey for the latest start? Three body. The for the For, the latest start time. Oh, the You mean a delayed the Yeah The delayed start for Yeah, so

that’s why I think the 20 Let me look at my calendar again. I think I think You and I had this conversation. We are the 26th. It is on my account of sent out the least Art survey on Tuesday the 26th right? And. Um what was the other question?

I had the letter we got. We all got. From from I’ve forgotten who the sender was about. The significant um Lower loneliness, I guess of the cutlet performance. Can. You come in that. Is there any obvious cause for that that you’ve identified Or. Is there any action that you’re planning?

The the only thing I would say getting a new principal right now is I really? We really leaning on what we’ve been doing with the MTs s and really personalized interventions with kids where we’re measuring kids figure out where they’re at and then integrating personalized interventions. The difference in in the Cutler program has been They actually jumped

onboard math this year because that was one of the lower I think it’s the lowest the lowest of the elementary schools score in math, so they jumped on that dish this year, their coaches also math specialist. She’s that’s her. That’s her specialty area. So They were able to start working

on that right away where the other schools are still working through that curriculum process. Um, so those are the two pieces of the puzzle that will really help to drive that. And. Then once we actually get into a unified curriculum in math across all the elementary schools, then it’s just like the literacy will be able to

manage. You know how things are happening and develop interventions for the Further any any of the kids that are that are lagging or kids that we find in the the The subgroups. Okay. Thank you. I just had one thing. Um I’m sorry. Where are you going? I just said that was a good

question. Um Thank you for sending out a message about the friends groups because I think that The fact that it was, you know, not in your larger message and then came out separately. Probably got it in front of people’s eyes and, yeah, Heard that helped Yeah. Yeah, it’s always fascinating. We’re always like, Okay.

What. Should we send out individually. What do we keep inside? So, and it’s funny because people really do go out of the way to say I read your message. I. Read your message every week, So. I was like, Hey, this is great, you know, but it is a lot Some weeks you start to

read through it and Don’t you know, sometimes it’s hard to make it to the bottom with all the things that are happening, we’re trying to cover so many bases. So. Sometimes. We do that just out in front of people. Questions. All right. That’s good. Thank you. Thank you. Um, I actually, really

don’t have anything to say. I was going to mention that I learned a new word on the Charette. Um I’ve been to two. Now Charette’s, um and I don’t want Jen sent it to me. I was like Ah, I am available and I will just quickly Google what

That is. And? Um um, but, yeah, I know it’s been both of both were very interesting. Both the security as well as the sustainability. Um, were interesting certainly learned a lot. Um And also a lot of things. Eric said A Lot would never have Never have thought, um All right? Does anyone have

any questions for me? Okay? Um, topics for future meetings. I think so. Well, the one we So. We have a from the policy subcommittee. We. Have I AQ topic, right? I’ve had, it suggests admit that we should rename it the healthy building. Policy rather than okay, which I think is a good idea.

Okay? Um anybody else have anything else? Okay? I think I would entertain a motion if anyone has one. I’d like to move it the wage. Is there a second 2nd 2nd By Julia Campbell. Is there any discussion? All those in favor. And that is unanimous of this six members present and we are adjourned. Trent. What time