SCHOOL COMMITTEE MEETING

(1)

The GLOUCESTER PUBLIC SCHOOLS

2 Blackburn Drive Tel: 978-281-9800

Gloucester, Massachusetts 01930 Fax: 978-281-9899 www.gloucesterschools.com

Our Mission is for all Students to be Successful, Engaged, Lifelong Learners

SCHOOL COMMITTEE MEETING

Wednesday, August 14, 2019 7:00 pm

District Office – Conference Room 2 Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930

AGENDA

Meetings are recorded

I. CALL TO ORDER/Statement of Mission II. SALUTE TO THE FLAG

**

^III. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS

IV. COMMENTS FROM THE CHAIRPERSON V. RECOGNITIONS

VI. GHS STUDENT ADVISORY COUNCIL VII. CONSENT AGENDA

*

^A. Approval of Minutes

1. Amended School Committee Executive Session (Confidential) of April 10, 2019 2. School Committee and Executive Session (Confidential) of May 8, 2019

3. Program Sub-Committee of May 9, 2019

4. Building & Finance Sub-Committee of May 15, 2019 5. School Committee of May 22, 2019

*

^B. Approval of Warrants C. Approval of Transfers D. Referrals

(2)

School Committee Meeting Agenda, August 14, 2019 Page 2

*

^E. Donations

1. Donation to West Parish Elementary School from Mr. Ronald Gillis of Applied Materials in the amount of $100 (Employee Match)

2. Donation from AERO Manufacturing Corporation of machining inserts valued at $41,900 to GHS Vocational Program

3. Donation from Awesome Gloucester in the amount of $1,000 for Solar Panel Project at the O’Maley Innovation Middle School

VIII. DELIBERATIONS ON EDUCATIONAL ISSUES/SUPERINTENDENT’S REPORT

*

^A. Presentation: GHS and O’Maley Security Measures (Potential Alterations)

— Dore and Whittier

*

^B. Film Using the Gloucester High School Name

*

^C. Superintendent’s Report

IX. SUB-COMMITTEE REPORTS (Items listed under X. ACTION may be brought forward with reports)

X. ACTION

*

^A. Acceptance/Approval of Grants

1. Early Childhood 262 Grant in the amount of $25,507 2. Special Education 240 Grant in the amount of $894,040

3. GEF Grant in the amount of $6,698 for after-school coding program at Beeman School

4. GEF Grant in the amount of $4,800 for teacher stipends for six summer AP Prep classes at GHS

5. GEF Grant in the amount of $3,000 for solar paneling on part of the O’Maley roof to provide ongoing power to the O’Maley Aquaponics Lab

6. GEF Grant in the amount of $10,000 for the 21^st Century Community Learning Centers Grant (O’Maley Academy)

7. GEF Grant in the amount of $2,000 was granted by a private donor to GEF for the O’Maley Innovation Middle School Solar Panel Project

8. Cell Signaling Technology, Inc. grant in the amount of $8,000 to be used for expanding Science inquiry at GHS

9. Cell Signaling Technology, Inc. grant in the amount of $2,000 for the Solar Panel Project at O’Maley Innovation Middle School

(3)

School Committee Meeting Agenda, August 14, 2019 Page 3

XI. DISCUSSION/OTHER COMMUNICATION/OLD AND NEW BUSINESS

A. Massachusetts School Building Authority Project Update B. Preschool Location

*

^C. Letter (7/17/19) to the Mayor from Chairperson Pope XII. EXECUTIVE SESSION

A. For the purpose of providing an update on the negotiations with the Gloucester Teachers Association

B. Settlement Agreement of Lawsuit XIII. ADJOURNMENT

The listing of matters is those reasonably anticipated by the Chair which may be discussed at the meeting.

Not all items may in fact be discussed and other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent permitted by law. Action items may include motions that come out of sub-committees.

*

^Enclosures

**

Oral Communication: The public shall have the opportunity at every regular School Committee meeting to be heard under Oral Communications. Oral Communications shall allow any resident who has a request or complaint of any nature relative to the School Committee business to appear before the School Committee, state their problem without debate, and the matter may be referred to the proper subcommittee.

For items that are on the agenda, members of the public may address the Committee with the permission of the Chair. Persons speaking under Oral Communications shall be limited to three (3) minutes each and shall submit a copy of their prepared communication to the Recording Secretary. The School Committee Chair shall not allow complaints as to individual performance or character.

(4)

VII.A.2.

THE GLOUCESTER PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Our mission is for all students to be successful, engaged, lifelong learners.

School Committee Meeting Minutes

Wednesday, May 8, 2019 District Office Conference Room 2 Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA

7:00 p.m.

Members Present Administration Present

Jonathan Pope, Chairman Dr. Richard Safier, Superintendent

Kathy Clancy, Vice Chairperson Gregg Bach, Asst. Superintendent

Tony Gross, Secretary Gary Frisch, Director of Finance

Michelle Sweet and Operations

Joel Favazza Patty Wegmann, Special Education

Mayor Sefatia Romeo Theken Director

James Cook, GHS Principal Jodi Gennodie, Beeman Principal Amy Pasquarello, EGS Principal

Recorded by 1623 Studios I. CALL TO ORDER – Chairman Pope called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. and stated the

mission of the Gloucester Public Schools.

II. SALUTE TO THE FLAG

III. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS – GHS teacher Eric Leigh expressed concern with the ability of the district to meet the needs of all students and presented a resolution seeking additional funding from the state through the Fund Our Future initiative, which he requested that the School Committee sign.

Caitlin Pszenny of 30 Dodge Street stated that after hearing from the architect for the new East Gloucester School, the Green Street neighbors are still strongly opposed to building that school on the Green Street site.

Sean Gadbois of 2R Green Street expressed his continued opposition to the building of a new school on the Green Street site and stated that the use of any land dedicated as a playground must be approved by the Massachusetts legislature.

The following people spoke in opposition to the building of a new school on the Green Street park and playground: Elmer Magana of 19 Dodge Street, Mark Petronelli of Green Street, and Tracy O’Neil of 12 Friend Street. In addition, Chairman Pope reported that he received a letter from Amanda Chiancola of 27 Dodge Street in opposition, as well.

Chairman Pope reminded the audience that it is the School Building Committee (SBC) that will be evaluating the sites and making the decision. Kathy Clancy stated that the architect has heard the neighbors’ concerns and that they will be shared with the SBC.

(5)

School Committee Meeting Minutes – May 8, 2019 – Page 2

IV. COMMENTS FROM THE CHAIRPERSON – None.

V. RECOGNITIONS – Dr. Safier recognized the high school for hosting Mass. Secretary of Education James Peyser and Secretary of Labor and Workforce Development Rosalin Acosta on April 26th. Kathy Clancy recognized GHS and the police department for hosting the vaping information session “In Plain Sight” last night.

Dr. Safier read the names of the following winter sports athletes who received NEC All Star Awards: EJ Field, Ryan Muniz, Colby Mitchell, Derek Hopkins, Cecilia Adelfio, Max Boucher, Liz Kuhns, Lauren Wood, Benjamin Oliver, and Ruby Melvin. He stated that the following students received NEC All Conference Awards: Connor Vittands, Jack Costanzo, Caroline McKay, Sam Groleau, Liam Donahue, Leah Rudolph, and Marcus Montagnino.

Finally, Dr. Safier recognized Derek Geary and Khris Silveria as NEC South Coaches of the Year.

VI. GHS STUDENT ADVISORY COUNCIL – None present.

VII. CONSENT AGENDA A. Approval of Minutes

1. School Committee Budget Workshop of March 6, 2019 2. School Committee of March 13, 2019

3. Building & Finance Subcommittee of March 20, 2019 4. School Committee Executive Session of April 10, 2019 B. Approval of Warrants

C. Approval of Transfers D. Referrals

On a motion by Kathy Clancy, seconded by Ms. Sweet, it was unanimously VOTED: 6 in favor, 0 opposed to approve the Consent Agenda as noted.

VIII. DELIBERATIONS ON EDUCATIONAL ISSUES/SUPERINTENDENT’S REPORT A. Report on GTA Arbitration Award – Kathy Clancy provided background on the

GTA grievance that was the subject of the arbitration and read a memo from Attorney Stonberg regarding the outcome of the arbitration hearing (see attached).

She also stated that there is misinformation in the form of a letter circulating about the arbitration decision involving the contracted afternoon meetings at the elementary level. She indicated that there have been allegations of “bait and switch” tactics by the superintendent upon implementing the elementary PLC hours, as well as an

(6)

“unfair and unethical implementation of this time.” Kathy Clancy noted that the arbitrator held that the use of this time was appropriate based upon the bargaining history and went into great detail about the thoughtful process used by the

administration in consulting with the Association and the teachers about the use of this time. She stated that the arbitrator noted that the activities that were planned by the teachers at the building level demonstrated the talents and dedication of the staff to improving student performance. She indicated that the judgment of the arbitrator, based upon the evidence presented in arbitration, clearly and unequivocally

demonstrates such statements to be baseless and false.

Kathy Clancy read several statements made in the arbitrator’s decision (see attached) and stated that it is both inappropriate and disturbing that in the face of evidence provided by both the GTA and the School Committee, some representatives of the GTA continue to impugn the positions, actions and integrity of the School Committee and the superintendent. She indicated that this is especially a concern with contract negotiations currently in progress. She believes that false accusations based upon false premises leading to thinly veiled threats is certainly not the way to move forward.

Finally, Kathy Clancy stated that arbitration proceedings are legal hearings designed to determine a dispute or the settling of differences between parties by a person chosen and agreed to by both parties, and that to continue with such rhetoric is to challenge a lawful ruling.

B. School Improvement Plans

1. Gloucester High School – James Cook recognized Teacher Appreciation Week and presented a slide show on the GHS School Improvement Plan.

2. East Gloucester and Beeman Memorial Elementary Schools – Amy

Pasquarello and Jodi Gennodie reviewed the individual goals for their schools.

On a motion by Kathy Clancy, seconded by Ms. Sweet, it was unanimously VOTED: 6 in favor, 0 opposed to accept the East Gloucester and Beeman

Memorial Elementary School Improvement Plans.

C. Special Education Update – Patty Wegmann reported that the district reading specialists have been working with a consultant on screening students for dyslexia.

She reviewed the current screening and indicated that a new assessment has been ordered. She stated that the reading specialists will use the new screening on kindergartners in the fall. She also stated that the district has consulted with a psychologist at Landmark School who provided training for special education staff.

Ms. Wegmann reported on the three Special Education Parent Advisory Committee (SEPAC) meetings held so far this year and stated that there will be another one in mid-June.

(7)

Ms. Wegmann reported that the required elements for special education and civil rights with respect to the Coordinated Program Review have been submitted to DESE. She indicated that the district is now in a continuous improvement planning system.

Ms. Wegmann reported on transition meetings at the elementary and middle schools to plan for students moving up to O’Maley. She indicated that a similar process is taking place for eighth graders moving up to the high school.

Ms. Wegmann reported that the special education summer program at Veterans has been fully staffed and that over 100 students will be participating. She indicated that the program will run Monday through Thursday from June 7 to August 1 and that the Open Door will provide free lunch for the students.

Ms. Wegmann reported that as part of the tiered focus monitoring required by DESE, the district will be assessing autism programs from Pre-K through Grade 5. She indicated that a consultant from the Northshore Education Consortium will review documents, observe programs, interview staff, and speak to parents. She stated that we should have the report by the end of October or early November.

Finally, Ms. Wegmann reported on new special education staff for next year, namely a new teacher for the Life Skills program at GHS, a new psychologist at Beeman, and a new teacher at Veterans.

D. Superintendent’s Report – Dr. Safier updated the committee on the following matters:

1. City Council Budget & Finance Committee Presentation FY20 Budget 2. Mad Hot Ball – Dr. Safer reported that he received some questions from a

School Committee member regarding the educational value of this program, how it affects time on learning, how students feel about it, and whether it reinforces stereotypical behavior with respect to gender. Mayor Theken discussed her and her family’s experience with the program over the years and the accommodations made for special needs students and thanked the

Gloucester Education Foundation for sponsoring it. Dr. Safier added that the students are learning social and physical skills, as well as perseverance. This matter was referred to the Program Subcommittee.

3. Gloucester Public Schools Arts Festival 4. Annual JROTC Leadership Awards Night

5. Emergency Management Plans Review with Gloucester Fire and Police Departments – Dr. Safier reviewed the dates of the scheduled drills at each of the schools.

(8)

6. Summer Projects, Work Orders, End-of-Year for DPW 7. Special Commission on Student Transportation

8. School Finance Modernization: A Recent Editorial from MMA On a motion by Kathy Clancy, seconded by Ms. Sweet, it was unanimously VOTED: 6 in favor, 0 opposed to accept the Superintendent’s Report.

IX. SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS – None.

X. ACTION

A. Acceptance of Gloucester Education Foundation Grants

1. After discussion, on a motion by Mr. Gross, seconded by Ms. Sweet, it was unanimously

VOTED: 6 in favor, 0 opposed to accept a grant from the Gloucester Education Foundation in the amount of $16,141.33 for the Physiology of Mindfulness program at O’Maley and the summer STEAM program at Beeman.

2. After discussion, on a motion by Mr. Gross, seconded by Ms. Sweet, it was unanimously

VOTED: 6 in favor, 0 opposed to accept a grant from the Gloucester Education Foundation in the amount of $1,175.00 for the Elicitor magazine at GHS and the GHS Life Skills program.

B. School Choice Reporting Requirement – On a motion by Kathy Clancy, seconded by Ms. Sweet, it was unanimously

VOTED: 6 in favor, 0 opposed to accept school choice students for the 2019- 2020 school year.

C. Approval of Northshore Education Consortium FY20 Budget – Dr. Safier reviewed the FY20 budget and reported that tuition rates will not increase by more than 2 percent.

(9)

After discussion, on a motion by Kathy Clancy, seconded by Ms. Sweet, it was VOTED: 5 in favor, 1 present (Mayor Theken) to approve the Northshore

Education Consortium FY20 budget.

XI. DISCUSSION/OTHER COMMUNICATION/OLD AND NEW BUSINESS A. MSBA Project Update – Chairman Pope reported that the School Building

Committee (SBC) is still waiting on title searches to be completed for the sites. He indicated that the project is about four months behind schedule. The SBC will be meeting tomorrow to discuss whether to authorize Dore & Whittier to move forward with some of the surveying and testing work. Chairman Pope noted that many Green Street residents have made it clear that there is a lot of opposition to building on that site.

Mayor Theken reported that the facilities study conducted by Dore & Whittier has been completed and that the 2,000 page report will be available electronically at some point. Chairman Pope stated that he would be interested to see what it would cost to renovate East Gloucester School.

B. Preschool Location – Dr. Safier reported that representatives from Dore & Whittier have met with preschool staff to discuss space needs and have been investigating options for the location of the preschool.

C. Naming of Facilities – Chairman Pope reported that he has received two requests to name facilities and that a new subcommittee made up of the chairs of the current subcommittees will need to meet to review those requests.

XII. EXECUTIVE SESSION – On a motion by Kathy Clancy, seconded by Ms. Sweet, it was unanimously

VOTED: By Roll Call Vote Mayor Theken – yes Mr. Favazza – yes Chairman Pope – yes Kathy Clancy – yes Ms. Sweet – yes Mr. Gross – yes

To enter into Executive Session at 9:00 p.m. for the purpose of approving Executive Session minutes and to discuss start dates of collective bargaining agreements and to enter back into regular session only to adjourn.

(10)

X. ACTION (Continued)

D. Approval of MOA with Transportation Workers

On a motion by Chairman Pope, seconded by Ms. Sweet, it was unanimously VOTED: 6 in favor, 0 opposed to approve the Memorandum of Agreement

between the Teamsters Local Union #42 Transportation Workers and the Gloucester School Committee.

XIII. ADJOURNMENT – On a motion by Mr. Gross, seconded by Ms. Sweet, it was unanimously

VOTED: 6 in favor, 0 opposed to adjourn the School Committee Meeting of May 8, 2019 at 9:23 p.m.

All reference documents and reports are filed in the Superintendent’s office.

Maria Puglisi Recording Secretary

(Minutes prepared from 1623 Studios video and notes provided by Joel Favazza.)

(11)

TO: Gloucester School Committee FROM: Naomi R. Stonberg

DATE: May 1, 2019

RE: Elementary Afternoon Meetings

I am pleased to inform you that we have prevailed in the arbitration involving the elementary school afternoon meetings. You will recall that during the last round of negotiations we negotiated additional time after school for elementary teachers. The contract language required that we consult with the Association representatives but that the Administration was responsible for

planning the meetings. The Association initially filed an unfair labor practice at the Division of Labor Relations claiming that the Committee did not consult with the Association and that the contract required that this time be used to conduct activities such as data and IEP meetings which currently takes place during the school day. The Division of Labor Relations deferred the matter to

arbitration.

We had two days of hearings before Arbitrator Marcia Greenbaum. The Association witnesses were members of the bargaining team. Melissa Texeira-Prince, Dr. Richard Safier and Principal Amy Pasquerello testified for the School Committee.

The Association argued that the Association did not appoint members to consult and therefore the consultation with the building representatives was not authorized and that the meeting time could only be used “to allow time to perfect and build on existing activities and practices in a way the existing school day and schedule didn’t allow.” (Arbitrator’s award page 41). The remedy sought was to direct the Administration not to use this time for professional learning communities and/or professional development.

The Arbitrator accepted the School Committee’s position that the parties envisioned that the consultation would take place at the building level. She further ruled that the Association did not name representatives and could not later claim that the building representatives did not represent the Association. She states as follows:

While the Association argues that the contract was violated because tis GTA representatives were not consulted, the undisputed evidence is that the Association did not appoint any additional representative or notify the administration as to who they were. At the hearing GTA said that it was never asked to designate representatives. However, it did not have to be asked to fulfill a contractual provision. It simply had to designate representatives and let them be known to the administration…nor did the GTA mention to the administration that the duly elected GTA building representatives were not to serve as the GTA

representatives…if there was any failing here it was not on the part of the administration.

(pp. 59-60)

The arbitrator held that the bargaining history did not support the Association’s claim of restrictive use of meeting time but rather supported the model adopted by the administration. She further stated that the “evidence is that the process used to consult in the elementary schools was fair and

(12)

not in violation of the Agreement.” at 62. She further held that “a number of these kind of

meetings had to be held during the school day because of the schedules of others and the need for multiple meetings that would go beyond the time that would be allotted after school.” p. 61

After discussing the careful consultation process and the activities conducted at each school she concluded that “As a matter of implementation, the administration did in fact ‘consult’ with educators, including representatives to the extent they were willing to take part in the process (absent the GTA naming representative other than the building representatives), and that it was the teachers themselves who decided what they would pursue in after- school hours. There was no interference by the principals or the superintendent and accordingly, no violation of the

Agreement.” pp.63-64

Conclusion. The School Committee witnesses were very credible and persuasive. Melissa did an excellent job in presenting the bargaining history and the parties’ understanding of the

“consultation” process. Dr. Safier testified in great detail as to the process used at each school and the school-based activities planned by the teachers aimed at improving student achievement.

Amy’s detailed explanation of the collaborative process used at her school rebutted any of the Association’s claims that the teachers were not consulted. This decision has implications for the current round of negotiations where the Association is seeking to have meetings such as “data meetings” conducted after school hours. Finally, the decision confirms the focus of the School Committee and the administration on working collaboratively with the teachers to improve student achievement.

cc: Dr. Richard Safier Amy Pasquerrelo

(13)

(14)

(15)

(16)

(17)

VII.A.3.

Program Subcommittee Meeting Minutes

Thursday, May 9, 2019 Superintendent’s Office

2 Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930 5:00 p.m.

Kathy Clancy, Chairperson Dr. Richard Safier, Superintendent (6:02) Michelle Sweet, Vice Chairperson Gregg Bach, Asst. Superintendent

Joel Favazza, Member

______________________________________________________________________________

I. CALL TO ORDER – Chairperson Clancy called the meeting to order at 5:04 p.m. and stated the mission of the Gloucester Public Schools.

II. REPORTS/DELIBERATIONS/DISCUSSION

A. Parent Partnership Series – The committee discussed ideas to inform parents on what is happening and engage them in the schools, such as curriculum information nights, social media and online habits, school safety, and anxiety. Mr. Bach suggested inviting Doug Fodeman back for a presentation on online safety and

indicated that there was a great turnout (over 100 families) for the community literacy night held at City Hall earlier this year. He also noted that if kids are performing at events, families are more likely to attend these types of sessions.

Mr. Bach reported that attendance is a major problem in the district and that we need community-wide support to address that issue.

Mr. Bach reported that he has heard from parents that the open houses (i.e. Meet the Teacher Night) are not great. There was a discussion about changing teacher handouts that are typically given out that night to a Google document with links to what parents need to know during the year, and including presentations by kids on open house nights. Mr. Bach suggested creating a parent survey or inviting parents to be part of a focus group to get feedback and come up with ideas for the open houses.

There was a discussion about presenting the topic of school safety, and Mr. Bach noted that presentations by the police department can be frightening. Chairperson Clancy suggested creating some informational videos with help from 1623 Studios on what happens during safety drills at each grade level, narrated by the principals, which can be shared with parents. Mr. Favazza suggested requiring parents and students to watch a series of videos at the beginning of the school year, like the training videos that student athletes have to watch before they can play sports.

Mr. Bach indicated that he will bring that up at the next leadership meeting.

(18)

Program Subcommittee Minutes of May 9, 2019 – Page 2

B. Crowdfunding – The committee reviewed the draft crowdfunding policy from MASC. Mr. Bach spoke about the Artsonia website, which sells students’ artwork on mugs, tee-shirts, etc. and provides a percentage of the sales back to the school for art supplies. He indicated that art teachers should not be directly soliciting parents of their students to purchase their child’s artwork. Rather, the opportunity to buy artwork should be posted on the website or communicated by the principal.

(Dr. Safier joined the meeting at 6:02 p.m.)

Dr. Safier indicated that he will research other policies, and the committee discussed the definition of “crowdfunding.”

III. ACTION – None.

IV. ADJOURNMENT – On a motion by Ms. Sweet, seconded by Mr. Favazza, it was unanimously

VOTED: 3 in favor, 0 opposed to adjourn the Program Subcommittee Meeting of May 9, 2019 at 6:22 p.m.

(19)

VII.A.4.

Building & Finance Subcommittee Meeting Minutes

5:00 p.m.

Tony Gross, Chairman Dr. Richard Safier, Superintendent Kathy Clancy, Vice Chairperson Gary Frisch, Director of Finance

Jonathan Pope, Member and Operations

Cody Marshall, Accounts and Budget Specialist

Also Present

Mike Hale, DPW Director

I. CALL TO ORDER – Chairman Gross called the meeting to order at 5:00 p.m.

II. CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER’S REPORT (At this time, the agenda was taken out of order.) III. REPORTS/DELIBERATIONS/DISCUSSIONS

B. DPW Open Tickets – Mike Hale discussed the DPW work order system and the turnaround time for resolving tickets. He stated that the ticket system is working better now and that there is better communication and a better relationship with the schools. He also discussed routine maintenance and indicated that the modulars are a big concern because they are at the end of their life expectancy. He reported that the modulars at East Gloucester are the worst. There was a discussion about redistricting Beeman in order to get rid of some of the modulars in the district.

Mr. Hale reported that asbestos abatement at Plum Cove will be taking place this summer and will be done when school opens. He also reported that the fieldhouse floor is a four-month project and will probably start during the last few of weeks of school next year and continue through next summer. There was a discussion about the timing of the bidding process and the safety of chemicals that may be used on the project.

Mr. Hale reported that the doors at O’Maley and the high school will be done this summer and that the DPW will be looking at security at GHS and O’Maley with Dore

(20)

B&F Subcommittee Meeting Minutes – May 15, 2019 – Page 2

& Whittier. There was a discussion about reconfiguring the entryways at both schools to provide more security.

Mr. Hale reported that a lot of painting was done at the schools during the February and April breaks and that deep cleaning will be done over the summer. There was a discussion about DPW overtime for responding to alarms at the schools.

Finally, Mr. Hale reported that the RTUs on the high school roof are done and the integrity of the roof is good.

Mr. Frisch reported that interior door locks at East Gloucester and Veterans and classroom phones will be installed this summer.

C. DPW Closed Tickets

A. District-Wide Report – See Chief Financial Officer’s Report. Mr. Frisch reported that there are two more months of health insurance payments totaling $1 million, so there will be a remaining balance at year end of $1.6 million. He indicated that substitute accounts, athletics, some technology items and the main office contingency account have not been encumbered.

Chairman Gross noted that the City Council Budget & Finance Committee has expressed concerned about substitute costs. Dr. Safier and Mr. Frisch will review the substitute reports provided by Maria Puglisi.

Dr. Safier reported that the Chargers girls’ softball team would like to set up a batting cage at West Parish. Mr. Frisch indicated that the Chargers will pay for the batting cage and the pitching machine. Dr. Safier reviewed File FJ, “Alterations,

Renovations and Additions to School Buildings and School Grounds.” This matter will be placed on the next School Committee agenda for approval.

D. Food Services – Profit & Loss – See Chief Financial Officer’s Report.

E. Food Services – Student Debt – Mr. Frisch reported that the outstanding student debt as of May 6th was $12,355, down from $14,543 on April 22nd. See Chief Financial Officer’s Report.

G. Budget Transfers – The committee reviewed the budget transfers, and Kathy Clancy requested a report on legal fees at the next meeting.

On a motion by Mr. Pope, seconded by Kathy Clancy, it was unanimously

VOTED: 3 in favor, 0 opposed to recommend to the full School Committee that we approve the April 2019 budget transfers as presented.

(21)

B&F Subcommittee Meeting Minutes – May 15, 2019 – Page 3

F. Revolving Funds – The committee reviewed the revolving funds. Mr. Frisch

reported that all of the funds are in a positive position. Cody expressed concern with the preschool revolving fund since several salaries are paid out of that fund.

H. Food Service Substitute and Noon Supervisor Wages – The committee discussed increasing the hourly rate for noon supervisors and food service substitutes from

$11.00 to $12.00 (minimum wage).

On a motion by Mr. Pope, seconded by Kathy Clancy, it was unanimously

VOTED: 3 in favor, 0 opposed to recommend to the full School Committee that we increase the hourly rate for noon supervisors and food service substitutes to the minimum wage, effective with the next pay period, and to keep pace with the minimum wage going forward.

I. Stipend Position for Student Obligations – The committee briefly discussed this matter. It was tabled at the request of Chairman Gross to get an explanation from the Food Service Director as to what this position entails.

J. Student Bus Fees and Procedures – Mr. Frisch distributed and reviewed the current bus application, as well as a comparison of bus fees with other districts. (See Chief Financial Officer’s Report.) It was the consensus of the committee not to increase the bus fees. Mr. Pope stated that the bus application seems overly complicated. The application will be simplified and brought back to the next meeting for review.

There was a discussion about the vote that was taken to waive the bus fees for West Parish students to try to alleviate traffic problems there. Mr. Pope suggested that the committee look at the bus policy again. Dr. Safier indicated that he could send a letter out at the beginning of the school year to parents of students who live within a mile of West Parish and Veterans stating that if they feel their child is walking in a hazardous area, they should contact him to make other arrangements. There was a discussion about identifying hazardous walking areas within a mile of each school and sending the letter to those families.

IV. ACTION – See Items II.G and H.

V. ADJOURNMENT – On a motion by Kathy Clancy, seconded by Mr. Pope, it was unanimously

VOTED: 3 in favor, 0 opposed to adjourn the Building & Finance Subcommittee Meeting of May 15, 2019 at 6:19 p.m.

Maria Puglisi, Recording Secretary

(22)

VII.A.5.

School Committee Meeting Minutes

7:00 p.m.

Kathy Clancy, Vice Chairperson Dr. Richard Safier, Superintendent

Melissa Teixeira Prince Gregg Bach, Asst. Superintendent

Michelle Sweet Gary Frisch, Director of Finance

Joel Favazza and Operations

James Cook, GHS Principal

Recorded by 1623 Studios I. CALL TO ORDER – Vice Chairperson Clancy called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. and

stated the mission of the Gloucester Public Schools.

II. SALUTE TO THE FLAG

III. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS – None.

IV. COMMENTS FROM THE CHAIRPERSON – None.

V. RECOGNITIONS – Vice Chairperson Clancy recognized the GHS and O’Maley choruses for their beautiful performances at the Shalin Liu Performance Center on Monday night.

Vice Chairperson Clancy recognized and thanked Gunner Richard Muth, who is retiring, for leading the JROTC program at GHS since 1996 and being a positive influence on students.

Dr. Safier discussed Gunner Muth’s career with the district and read a 2002 letter from the Operations Commander of the Gloucester Police Department regarding the helpfulness of his students at an event. Finally, Vice Chairperson Clancy read a citation from the Gloucester Public Schools and presented it to Gunner Muth, and the committee members thanked him for his years of service.

VI. GHS STUDENT ADVISORY COUNCIL – None present.

VII. CONSENT AGENDA A. Approval of Minutes

1. School Committee and Executive Session of March 27, 2019 2. Personnel Subcommittee and Executive Session of April 1, 2019 3. School Committee Public Hearing of April 3, 2019

4. Personnel Subcommittee and Executive Session of April 10, 2019

(23)

B. Approval of Warrants

C. Approval of Transfers – April 2019 D. Referrals

E. Acceptance of Gift – $28.84 from Ohiopyle Prints, Inc. to GHS

On a motion by Ms. Teixeira Prince, seconded by Ms. Sweet, it was unanimously VOTED: 4 in favor, 0 opposed to approve the Consent Agenda as noted.

VIII. DELIBERATIONS ON EDUCATIONAL ISSUES/SUPERINTENDENT’S REPORT A. College and Career Placement, Class of 2019 – Mr. Cook reviewed information on

college matriculation and career placement for the Class of 2018. He also reviewed some preliminary information for the Class of 2019 and stated that it will be finalized when students receive their caps and gowns. Finally, he discussed dual enrollment with North Shore Community College and Endicott College.

B. Batting Cage at West Parish Elementary School – Glen McEachern, Vice

President of the Chargers organization, stated that he has been involved in coaching youth sports for 35 years. He requested permission to put a batting cage at West Parish and stated that he is not looking for the city to fund any of it, noting that it will be funded by their organizations (softball and flag football). Mr. Frisch indicated that the DPW is supportive of this request.

After discussion, on a motion by Ms. Teixeira Prince, seconded by Ms. Sweet, it was unanimously

VOTED: 4 in favor, 0 opposed to approve the placement of a batting cage at West Parish Elementary School for the Chargers youth softball team.

C. Superintendent’s Report – Dr. Safier updated the committee on the following matters:

1 City Council Vote to Authorize Renovation of the Fieldhouse – There was a discussion about the timing of the project and the scope of the work.

Dr. Safier stated that he would be happy to invite Dore & Whittier to a future meeting to discuss the project.

2. GHS Academic Recognition Night

3. Comprehensive School Health Services (CSHS) Model Grant Update

4. Update on History, Social Science and Civics Education – Mr. Bach discussed the eighth grade civics lessons at O’Maley and suggested that those teachers

(24)

and students present to the School Committee in the fall. Dr. Safier reminded the committee about Student Government Day on May 28th.

5. Massachusetts Safe Routes to School (SRTS) Survey 6. Chapter 70

On a motion by Ms. Sweet, seconded by Mr. Favazza, it was unanimously VOTED: 4 in favor, 0 opposed to accept the Superintendent’s Report.

IX. SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS

A. Building & Finance Subcommittee Meeting of May 15, 2019 – Vice Chairperson Clancy reported that the Building & Finance Subcommittee discussed the DPW ticketing system, food service debt, and the bus application at its meeting of May 15, 2019.

B. Program Subcommittee Meeting of May 9, 2019 – Vice Chairperson Clancy reported that the Program Subcommittee discussed a crowdfunding policy and parent partnerships at its meeting of May 9, 2019.

X. ACTION

A. Acceptance of Grants

1. FY19 Massachusetts 21st Century Community Learning Centers Summer Enhancement Grant – Mr. Bach discussed the purpose of this grant.

On a motion by Ms. Sweet, seconded by Ms. Teixeira Prince, it was unanimously

VOTED: 4 in favor, 0 opposed to accept the FY19 Massachusetts 21st Century Community Learning Centers Summer Enhancement Grant in the amount of $16,150.00.

2. Commonwealth of Massachusetts Comprehensive School Health Services Grant – Dr. Safier reported that this grant will be used for the in-house suspension program.

After discussion, on a motion by Mr. Favazza, seconded by Ms. Sweet, it was unanimously

VOTED: 4 in favor, 0 opposed to accept the Commonwealth of

Massachusetts Comprehensive School Health Services Grant in the amount of $95,000.00 each year for four years, totaling

$380,000.00.

(25)

B. Approval of Batting Cage at West Parish Elementary School – See Item VIII.B.

C. Approval of Increased Rate for Noon Supervisors and Food Service Substitutes - Ms. Teixeira Prince reported on contract negotiations and the difficulty of getting food service substitutes. She made a motion, seconded by Ms. Sweet, to increase the rate for noon supervisors and food service substitutes from $11.00 to $12.00 per hour in conjunction with the minimum wage law. Vice Chairperson Clancy noted that the Building & Finance Subcommittee’s recommendation included keeping pace with the minimum wage as it increases in the future. Ms. Teixeira Prince amended her motion as follows:

Amended Motion

On a motion by Ms. Teixeira Prince, seconded by Ms. Sweet, it was unanimously VOTED: 4 in favor, 0 opposed to increase the hourly rate for noon supervisors

and food service substitutes from $11.00 to $12.00, effective

immediately, and to keep pace with the minimum wage going forward.

XI. DISCUSSION/OTHER COMMUNICATION/OLD AND NEW BUSINESS

A. MSBA Project Update – Dr. Safier reported that the work on the East Gloucester School project has been stalled because the title searches are being reviewed by an outside agency. He noted that there may be an issue with one of the parcels on Green Street. He stated that once Dore & Whittier receives this information, they can begin the necessary studies in order to evaluate the options at all three sites. Finally, Dr. Safier reported that the next School Building Committee meeting is on June 6th.

B. Preschool Location – Dr. Safier reported that he met with representatives from Dore

& Whittier yesterday and reviewed space summaries for the preschool and Central Office, including available space at O’Maley and GHS and the percentage of time those spaces are used. He indicated that Dore & Whittier will continue to refine those options and stated that they are also looking at renovations to the Blackburn building for preschool space if Central Office staff moves out. He indicated that Dore &

Whittier will then present cost comparisons on each option.

C. Letter from William Goodwin re: Naming of GHS Weight Room – Vice

Chairperson Clancy recommended that a meeting be scheduled to discuss this request, as well as other requests to name school facilities.

D. GHS End of Year Calendar for Seniors

- Academic Recognition Night, GHS Auditorium, Thursday, May 23rd at 7:00 p.m.

- Grand Promenade, GHS Fieldhouse, Friday, May 31st at 5:30 p.m.

- Senior Awards Night, GHS Auditorium, Friday, June 7th at 7:00 p.m.

- Graduation, Newell Stadium, Sunday, June 9th at 1:30 p.m.

(26)

Vice Chairperson Clancy added that the last O’Maley chorus performance will take place on Wednesday, May 29th at 6:30 p.m.

E. CVTE Advisory Meeting – Ms. Teixeira Prince reported that she attended the CVTE General Advisory Committee meeting on May 15th and was impressed by the number of community members involved on the committee. She indicated that two co-chairs of the committee were appointed and that they would like to come before the School Committee before the end of the school year to introduce themselves and report on the meeting. Finally, Ms. Teixeira Prince requested a report on the plan to

accommodate the 50 to 60 students interested in CVTE programs next year.

XII. ADJOURNMENT – On a motion by Ms. Sweet, seconded by Ms. Teixeira Prince, it was unanimously

VOTED: 4 in favor, 0 opposed to adjourn the School Committee Meeting of May 22, 2019 at 8:01 p.m.

(27)

(28)

(29)

(30)

(31)

(32)

(33)

(34)

(35)

(36)

(37)

Security Upgrades GHS + OMS

6.26.2019

(38)

COST ESTIMATE

GLOUCESTER HIGH SCHOOL

• Existing Vestibule is removed to create a secure lobby area with visibility from main office and SRO office

• Main office is

reconfigured to allow for visitor entry and student entry

3

1

2

STUDENT OFFICE ENTRY

VISITOR OFFICE ENTRY

Cost $772,700

Soft Cost 25% $193,175

Total $965,875

* Includes $25,000 Allowance for security system upgrades

* $50,000 for control room technology

* Escalation based on summer 2021 start

(39)

COST ESTIMATE

O’MALEY MIDDLE SCHOOL

• Existing Vestibule is removed to create a secure lobby area with visibility from main office and SRO office

• Main office is

reconfigured to allow for visitor entry and student entry

Cost $565,000

Soft Cost 25% $141,200

Total $706,200

Add Alternates

School Guard Glazing at Café $38,000 School Guard Glazing at Aquaponics $48,000 Large stone bollards at entry (10 total) $15,000

* Includes $25,000 Allowance for security system upgrades

* $50,000 for control room technology

3 1 2

STUDENT OFFICE ENTRY

VISITOR OFFICE ENTRY

(40)

GHS – COST ESTIMATE

Separate Approach OMS

Separate Approach GHS GHS + OMS

Combined Approach

Cost $772,700

Soft Cost 25% $193,175

Total $965,875

* Includes $25,000 Allowance for security upgrades

* $50,000 for control room

Cost $565,000

Soft Cost 25% $141,200

Total $706,200

Add Alternates

School Guard Glazing at Café $38,000 School Guard Glazing at Aquaponics

$48,000

Large stone bollards at entry (10 total)

$15,000

* Includes $25,000 Allowance for security upgrades

* $50,000 for control room

Cost $1,214,000

Soft Cost 25% $303,500

Total $1,517,500

Savings of $154,757 if both projects are bid together with one GC

OMS Add Alternates

School Guard Glazing at Café $38,000 School Guard Glazing at Aquaponics

$48,000

Large stone bollards at entry (10 total)

$15,000

(41)

CODA

Written and directed by Siân Heder

CODA follows 17-year-old Ruby, the only hearing child in a deaf family, as she finds herself torn between pursuing her love of music and her family’s reliance on her as their interpreter and connection to the hearing world.

Ruby grew up working on the deck of her family’s fishing boat, acting as the interpreter for her deaf parents, Jackie and Frank, and brother Leo. Now a high school senior, Ruby takes a risk and signs up for the high school choir. Initially there to pursue her crush on musically-gifted Miles, Ruby finds herself inspired by the choir teacher, Arturo, who spots Ruby’s talent, as well as her discomfort with being “other” in this small fishing town — a feeling that he knows all too well. Ruby’s promise as a singer threatens to alienate her family and jeopardize their livelihood. Facing a diﬃcult choice of whether to follow her own path or fulfill what she feels are her obligations to her family, she must navigate the worlds of deaf and hearing, family and independence, control and letting go.

An American adaptation of the successful French film La Famille Belier, CODA is written and directed by Siân Heder, who has written, produced and directed on the acclaimed Netflix

series, Orange is the New Black, for which she has received multiple WGA nominations. Her debut feature film, Tallulah, premiered at the Sundance Film Festival. The film, starring Ellen Page and Allison Janney, was released as a Netflix original. Her episodic directing credits include The Path, starring Aaron Paul and Michelle Monaghan, the Netflix original series Glow, starring Alison Brie and Marc Maron, and Orange is the New Black. Currently, Siân is an executive producer, writer and director on the series Little America for Apple.

MARLEE MATLIN EUGENIO DERBEZ EMILIA JONES FERDIA WALSH-PEELO

PRODUCERS Patrick Wachsberger

Philippe Rousselet

CINEMATOGRAPHER Paula Huidobro

PRODUCTION DESIGNER Diane Lederman

(42)

VIII.C.

The Gloucester Public Schools

Our mission is for all students to be successful, lifelong learners Report of the Superintendent of Schools

August 14, 2019

1. Summer Security Review

A number of safety issues are in the process of being addressed through meetings with the Police and Fire Departments, along with the Department of Public Works. The first meeting was held on July 2. Copies of each school’s Emergency Management Plans were shared with the Fire Chief for review. The topics/issues being reviewed include the following:

• The overview and review of emergency management plan;

• Solidifying the Incident Command Structure and acquainting school administration with potential Incident Commanders;

• Emergency Management Plan locations and pathways—e.g., West Parish, O’Maley, Beeman;

• Reunification and the management of the area to which a relocation takes place (e.g., from OM to Beeman to GHS)

• The role of Central Office in communicating between emergency operations on site, the evacuation area where students, staff, and administration would be situated, and transportation (School Committee is included here);

• The role of Central Office in communicating events to the public in a consistent manner in real time;

• Further training for administrators through the National Incident Management System’s online trainings (note that the district’s Emergency Management Plans

• Pre-emergency off-site evacuation materials (e.g., a required evacuation during inclement weather); and,

• Some particulars regarding individual schools

With respect to reunification, it is becoming increasingly clear that in the event of a long- term evacuation and a possible dismissal that a second evacuation area may be necessary.

For example should there be an evacuation due to a gas leak, and should the school in question be shut down, it is advisable to transport students from the first evacuation area to the high school to ensure a safe and orderly pickup by parents.

At the Leadership Retreat in June, we held a Tabletop Exercise which created a sequence of “What-Ifs” leading to consistent responses across schools and central administration.

Responders from the Police, Fire, and DPW will be joining school administrators on Day 2 of our upcoming retreat on August 21-22 for further discussion and planning.

(43)

2. Summer Work/Trainings

A number of trainings, curriculum work, and professional development opportunities have occurred for staff over the summer. These include the following:

Math Book Study exploring the book, Mathematical Mindsets, by Joe Boaler

• Social Studies Curriculum Mapping and Development 6 - 12

• Professional development entitled, “Decision-making Strategies in High School Social Studies”

• In English Language Arts, assessment training on DIBELS 8

• English Language Arts Book Study entitled, “Visible Learning for Literacy:

Implementing the Practices that Work Best to Accelerate Student Learning”

• Science Curriculum Development

• Elementary Science curriculum training in the new program (FOSS), Grades 4-5

• Classes K-12 in Sheltered English Immersion (SEI) entitled, “Success for English Learners in all Classes K-12”

• Social Emotional Learning (SEL) Book Study entitled, “Culturally Responsive Teaching and the Brain”

• Technology pilot training and study group on Schoology a Learning Management System (LMS)

• Introduction of New Teacher Academies for English Language Arts and Math Teachers

(44)

(45)

(46)

(47)

(48)

(49)

(50)

(51)

(52)

(53)

(54)

(55)

(56)

(57)

(58)

(59)