|
Watertown Board of Education
Regular Meeting
Minutes
Meeting Date: June 11, 2007
Meeting Time: 7:30 p.m.
Meeting Place: Watertown High Technology Center
Members Present: Ms. Mary Dzioba, Board Chairperson
Mr. Todd Griffin, Board Secretary
Mr. Richard Mazzamaro, Board Vice-Chairperson
Ms. Mary Colangelo, Board Member
Mr. Kevin Killeen, Board Member
Mr. Chris Lafferty, Board Member
Mr. Thomas Lambert, Board Member
Ms. Joanne Pannone, Board Member
Dr. Joseph Erardi Jr., Superintendent of Schools
Dr. Philip Pelosi, Assistant Superintendent of Schools
Ms. Amelia Grover, Dir. of Budget and Financial Planning
Ms. Betsy Hackett, Director of Special Services
Mr. Todd LoFrese, Director of Operations
Mr. William Zeman, W.H.S. Student Representative
Absent: Ms. Gina Calabrese, Board Member, Ms. Kace DuPlissie, PTO Representative
Press: Tom Burns, Town Times
Guests: Thad Hasbrouck, Marylu Lerz, Emily Judd, Kathleen Scully, Lisa Rommel, Whitey
Greenwood, Sandra Greenwood, Fran Palmer, Sharon Lanese, Leonard Bruno, Cecile
Campbell, Thomas Fix, Matthew Geary, Michelle Goldfarb, Joanne Chenkus, Patricia Corvello, Joseph Lopes, Nicollette Meka, Lauren Pavao, Jordan Maia, Brianna Meka, Leah Azab, Ricky Pilitowski, Gabriel Dispoto, Rachel Panasci and Chris Terzigni
A. Convene Regular Meeting - 7:30 PM
Ms. Dzioba convened the Regular Board of Education meeting at 7:30 p.m.
Motion to recess Meeting due to technical difficulties
Motion Presented By: Mr. Killeen
Motion Seconded By: Mr. Lambert
Text of Motion: To recess the Board of Education meeting of June 11, 2007 for five minutes.
Motion passed unanimously
(8-In Favor, 0-Opposed, 0-Abstained)
Meeting recessed at 7:30 p.m.
Meeting reconvened at 7:33 p.m.
B. Salute to the Flag
Ms. Dzioba led the Salute to the Flag
C. Recognition
Ms. Dzioba turned the meeting over to Dr. Erardi for student recognition.
b. The Board of Education wishes to recognize the following winners in the Superintendent’s CAPSS Awards from the elementary schools. The high school and middle school participated last fall. Awards are based on community service and service to others; academic prowess; and leadership service to the school community.
Joseph Lopes – John Trumbull Primary School, Grade 2
Nicolette Meka – John Trumbull Primary School, Grade 2
Lauren Pavao – John Trumbull Primary School, Grade 1
Jordan Maia – Judson School, Grade 5
Brianna Meka – Judson School, Grade 5
Leah Azab – Polk School, Grade 5
Ricky Pilitowski – Polk School, Grade 5
Gabriel Dispoto – Heminway Park School, Grade 6
Rachel Panasci – Heminway Park School, Grade 6
Dr. Erardi: Before I start, will the folks that cannot see, if we could just make more space, there is room in the middle here and you can come up closer if you would like on the side walls. This is an important evening for a number of youngsters and I don’t want anyone not to be a part of the activities. So come on in and we will all get warm together. (Laughter)
Good evening and thank you for attending, there are a number of honorees this evening. As is traditional with
this Board of Education as we look to close out our 2006-2007 School Year. The recognition this evening will
start with the following winners in the Superintendent’s CAPSS Awards from the elementary schools. The high
school and middle school participants received recognition this past fall. We award the Superintendent’s
Awards, which is an award that is given state wide to all of our local school districts, is based on community
service and service to others; academic excellence and leadership within their school. What I would like to do is if our audience could please hold their applause, that is hard to do at times, especially when it is your child. But if you would please hold your applause I would like to be able to introduce and share a sentence or two about all of our honorees this evening. And when the last student stands, when Rachel Panasci is standing and smiling, we will all clap for all of the students.
Dr Erardi called each student up individually to the table
Joseph Lopes is a hard-working second grader who is kind and conscientious. He is a student who always shows respect and good character towards everyone. He is a wonderful helper in class and quietly compliant all the time. Joseph strives to do better every day and never wants to miss school. In fact, he was injured recently at home and came to school all bandaged up so he could take his Spelling test.
Nicolette Meka is a grade 2 student and is very helpful to her classmates as well as assisting teachers before school. She will receive an award for a poem that she wrote for the Watertown Library poetry contest. She has been involved in other school activities and has the lead role in the play Jungle Book. Her academic achievement is excellent.
Lauren Pavao is a delightful first grader with a charming personality. She is well liked by her peers for her genuine good nature and overall positive attitude. She is always empathetic towards others, offering assistance when needed. She read the second highest number of books among the John Trumbull students in the Governor’s Summer Reading Challenge. Lauren raised $505.00 for the American Heart Association with the Jump Rope for Heart Fundraiser. Lauren was recently crowned Little Miss Watertown 2007 and is a member of the John Trumbull Primary Players.
Jordan Maia grade 5 student at Judson School, is a Boy Scout and plays soccer. As Co-President of the Judson School Student Council, he has initiated many activities and projects that the students not only enjoyed, but were of community service in nature. Jordan is a good student, always on the “Perfect Homework” list. He is currently in rehearsal for 50 is Nifty, Judson School’s production in honor of the school’s 50th birthday celebration.
Brianna Meka is a fifth grader at Judson School and loves to sing and dance. She is currently part of the 50 is Nifty production. As Vice-President of the Student Council, she has worked on many committees. She is a Girl Scout and swims with the Age-Group Swim Team. She is a good student and is often on the list of those students who have achieved “Perfect Homework.”
Leah Azab is a fifth grader at Polk School who demonstrates good character at all times. She sets goals for herself and works very hard to achieve those goals. Leah is also a great listener, leader, volunteer, and role model. She has donated food to the Watertown Food Bank, served food to the elderly at the Community Center, made Easter gifts for elderly, homeless, and ill people, and attended dinner benefits to help others in need. She always finds time to walk or visit with the elderly in her community.
Ricky Politowski is in grade 5 at Polk School. He is very responsible, respectful, trustworthy, tolerant, and caring student who is admired by his friends and peers. Ricky maintains a positive attitude towards school, and is eager to do well. He demonstrates leadership in the classroom and is extremely willing to help his peers and his teachers with all tasks. He was an active member in Cub Scouts for the last five years.
Gabriel Dispoto is a sixth grader and Peer Advocate at Heminway Park School. He participated in Heminway Hoops, helped coordinate “Leashes for Labs: fundraiser to raise money to purchase leashes and collars for rescued dogs. He is in the Sudoku Club and plays ice hockey, soccer, golf, and basketball. He likes to skimboard and his favorite subject is science. He does a lot of fishing in the summer. Gabe is an outstanding student and a mentor for students at Heminway Park.
Rachel Panasci is in sixth grade and is the co-president of Heminway Park School’s Student Council. She helped in the Student Council’s spirit days, helped run the school’s store, helped with the Earth Day poster contest, helped with the Reward Night dances for students, and also the “Valentine Monsters” fundraiser. She read to third graders on “Read Across America” Day, assisted with the school’s clean up day, takes private piano lessons, and is a cheerleader.
Ms. Dzioba and members of the Board of Education, standing in front of you are nine of the finest students that we have in our Watertown Schools. Congratulations to each and every one of you.
Applause
Ms. Dzioba presented each student with his or her certificate
e. The Board of Education wishes to recognize the following staff that will retire by the close of the 2006-2007 school year:
Joann Barthelmess - Library Media Specialist, Swift Middle School -10 years
Leonard Bruno - Social Studies Teacher, Watertown High School -34 years
Cecile Campbell - Cafe Manager, John Trumbull School -28 years
Lorraine Cavanaugh - Social Studies Teacher, Swift Middle School -33 years
Thomas Fix - Tech Ed Teacher, Watertown High School -34 years
Betsy Hackett - Director of Special Services, Systemwide -33 years
Sharon Lanese - Grade 5 Teacher, Polk School -20 years
They have a total of 192 years of service or 35,712 days or over 249,984 hours of service to the Watertown Public Schools.
Dr. Erardi: We will continue with our celebration of excellence and I think it is a nice segway on how students become outstanding students. It usually happens with a partnership of great parents, great grandparents, great relatives, great friends and great teachers. This evening we will recognize great teachers. A combination within our Class of 2007 retirees, according to the math, and Dr. Pelosi is the mathematician so I am sure that my administrative assistant ran these numbers through Dr. Pelosi. Our retirees this evening have a total of 192 years of service equaling 35,712 days, equating to over 249,984 hours of instruction through the Watertown Schools. We would like to recognize this evening a number of teachers. I would like to start with those who could not be with us tonight, who will be retiring. Joann Barthelmess and Lorranine Cavanaugh, I don’t believe they are here, they are unable to be here because it just happened to be their retirement dinner at Swift Middle School is taking place at the same time that the Board of Education Meeting is taking place. Joann will retire from Swift Middle School as a Library Media Specialist and Lorraine, 33 years of service as a Social Studies teacher at Swift Middle School. Also retiring with a support staff roll is Ms. Cecile Campbell, our manager of the John Trumbull School Cafeteria, for 28 years. We will recognize this evening for our retirements in the Class of 06-07, we will start with Mr. Len Bruno. Len could you come forward please.
Len Bruno is an icon at Watertown High School, that could be an understatement. Len is a Social Studies Teacher for the past 34 years at Watertown High, has led the Social Studies Department for a number of years and is a respectfully renowned golf coach who recently won his 700th match. (inaudible) retirement of this year, again after 34 years of exemplary service at Watertown High School.
Tom Fix, Lenny and Tom I believe came to town at the same time. Tom will also be celebrating his 34th year at Watertown High School. Tom has been the mainstay and the fixture of an outstanding Tech Ed department. He has seen the department move from industrial arts to technology education. He has changed with that movement and has been an outstanding role model, leader and mentor for all students. Tom retirees June 18th after 34 years of outstanding service. Tom thank you.
Sharon Lanese joins us this evening after 20 years of outstanding service in the Elementary Schools. Sharon retired mid-year in January and I had a chance, as did Mrs. Judd at Polk School to do a video of her last day. Nonetheless to say she was quite embarrassed and very reluctant. Sharon too has serviced our children for 20 years, served with dedication and with love and compassion for all the youngsters that she had since 1985. Sharon congratulations to you as you have already begun your retirement.
Betsy Hackett is in a business that very few stay for a long time. As Director of Special Services, which is a very, very challenging position, it is a position that many times, comes with frustration and comes with the unknown. However Betsy Hackett looks at that position in a much different way. Betsy Hackett looks at that position as an opportunity to truly make a difference with children that she will work with and over 33 years of service she has made a difference. The number of programs that she has started, the support that she has offered and most of all the love that she has given to her staff, to the parents and to her students has been immeasurable. Betsy Hackett retires this year after 33 years of outstanding service, retiring as our Director of Special Services as our System wide Director. Betsy thank you.
Ms. Hackett: Dr. Erardi I want to thank you. As my fellow retirees and I were going to hold hands and all bow together like chorus line.
Dr. Erardi: To Betsy, to Sharon and to Tom and to Len, on behalf of this Board of Education, a tremendous thank you, best of health, best of happiness.
Applause
c. The Board of Education wishes to recognize the Student Council Representative to the Board for school year 2006-2007:
William F. Zeman
d. The Board of Education wishes to recognize Mr. William Zeman, grade 12 student at Watertown
High School for being the First Place Winner in the Connecticut Bar Foundation’s Cooper
Fellowship Essay Contest.
Dr. Erardi: We will continue with our celebration and the Board will recognize one of our own. It has been an absolute pleasure, and I say that seriously, we have had fun together. It has been a pleasure working with William Zeman as the student representative from the Watertown High School Senior Class. William has been influential and instrumental in change, that has taken place at Watertown High. William will receive two awards this evening, the first, because he was unable to attend our last meeting. Mr. Zeman was recognized by the Connecticut Bar Association, the Cooper Fellowship Essay Contest, as the State Winner, which is a very prestigious award. He received a similar award, with Mr. Hasbrouck in Hartford. William the Board is extremely proud of you for this award, for all the work that you have done. And as a token of their appreciation for your personality, your charm, for your intelligence and your commitment and for being a very, very special graduating senior. Mrs. Dzioba would like to present to you something that hopefully will wake you up on time.
Applause
a. The Board of Education wishes to recognize the Valedictorian and Salutatorian for the Watertown High School Class of 2007.
1.) Amy Chevalier – Valedictorian
2.) Julie Henion – Salutatorian
Dr. Erardi: We will continue with our celebration of excellence with our class salutatorian and our class valedictorian. Julie Henion and Amy Chevalier will you please come forward. Members of the Board of Education standing before you are simply the best of the best. They will have an opportunity to share their thoughts on a sunny Friday, June 15th as representatives of the class. I would like to share with you a very brief profile of Julie and Amy and the type of students that we are so proud of. I am sure that I speak for your mom and your dad and your relatives that are here this evening.
JULIE HENION – SALUTATORIAN – CLASS OF 2007
Massachusetts Institute of Technology – Computer Engineering
Advanced Placement Classes:
AP English
AP Calculus
AP Chemistry
AP Java (Computer Programming)
Women of Innovation Award - 2007 – Connecticut Technology Council (The only high school student to be so recognized)
Robotics Design Awards – 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007 – FIRST Robotics design awards for engineering and design aesthetics
WHS Academic Excellence Awards – grades 10 through 12
Rensselaer Medal – grade 11 – achievement in math and science
General Electric Computer Science Award – grade 11
WHS Student of the Month – March 2006
Music
Violinist and Violist:
Greater Waterbury Youth Symphony – eight years
WHS Orchestra
WHS Musical Pit Orchestra – grades 11 and 12
Church Youth and Bell Choirs
Clubs
National Honor Society
World Languages Honor Society
FIRST Robotics Team 237 – (Team Leader) grades 9 through 12
French Club
Church Youth Group – numerous volunteer activities
Les Miserables Service Project – grade 11 (WHS and Palace Theater)
Volunteer concerts for the elderly – six years
Mr. Hasbrouck would like to describe Julie with a couple of adjectives, Julie is quiet, humble, and she is kind.
AMY CHEVALIER – VALEDICTORIAN – CLASS OF 2007
University of Delaware – Chemical Engineering
Advanced Placement Classes:
AP English
AP American Government
AP Calculus
AP Probability & Statistics
AP Biology
AP Chemistry
Additional AP exam: French
2006 Chemistry Olympiad – a national competition – among the top 100 students in the United States
Anna J. Harrison Award – 2006 – (top female in CT and MA in the Olympiad)
Commended Scholar - National Merit Scholarship Program
National Merit Scholarship Corporation Special Scholarship (sponsored by The Travelers Employees Club)
WHS Academic Excellence Awards – grades 10 through 12
Bausch & Lomb Award – grade 11 – excellence in science
WHS Student of the Month – October 2005
Music
An accomplished clarinetist:
Northern Regional Music Festival – grades 9 through 12
All-State Music Festival – grades 10 through 12
New England Music Festival – grades 10 through 12
All-Eastern (United States) Music Festival – grade 12 (This represents eleven states and Europe.)
Greater Waterbury Youth Symphony – eight years, including solo performances
WHS Musical Pit Orchestra – grades 9 through 12
Clubs
National Honor Society (Vice-President)
World Languages Honor Society
Year Book Editor
French Club (Vice President)
Les Miserables Service Project – grade 11 (WHS and Palace Theater)
Tutoring in and out of school, volunteer work at adult care centers
As described by Mr. Hasbrouck she is quiet, humble, giving of her time, she is always kind and never flaunting her accomplishments.
Members of the Board of Education I am very proud and pleased to share with you Julie Henion and Amy Chevalier as our Class Salutatorian and Class Valedictorian.
Applause
Dr. Erardi: At this time we would like to take a 15 minute recess and invite everyone to share in cake and refreshments.
Meeting recessed at 7:55 p.m.
Meeting reconvened at 8:10 p.m.
D. Public Participation
Joanne Chenkus, 1080 Middlebury Rd, Watertown
My colleague and I, Michelle Golfarb, would like to echo first of all a wonderful congratulations to our colleagues. Tom Fix worked with us the last four years on the High School musical and we want to wish him very well in his retirement but we are not going to let you escape we are still counting on you to come back and help out. And Betsy on a personal note I would like to congratulate you, it has been wonderful working with you on Project Graduation all these years. We would like to just bring back to mind something that our school has achieved in such a fabulous capacity. It has really put our school on the map once again in a very positive way. It was just one month ago that we had closing night of our performance of Anything Goes. So much has happened in the month, there has been so many activities. Just following that a week and half later our students, how many were there?
Michelle Goldfarb
That attended Halo’s? Approximately 73.
Ms. Chenkus: Seventy three of the students went to Naugatuck Valley Community College where Seven Angels Theater sponsored the Halo awards, which is similar to the Tony’s if you happened to catch those last night. Our school was nominated in….
Ms. Goldfarb: We were nominated for 9 halo’s if I can recall them all. The first was Best Musical, the second was Best Orchestra, Best Stage Crew, Best Actress in a Musical, Best Male Comedic Performance in a Musical, Best Couple in a Musical, Best Supporting Actress in a Musical, Best Supporting Actor in a Musical and Best Ensemble Musical.
Ms. Chenkus: I was also was noticing the young students and the talents that they had and it is going to be fabulous to see where this program is going to go. The other thing is that Julie and Amy both were involved, the enormous amount of activities that they were involved in just proves that yes you can do it all. You really can, you can do it all and Watertown has it all, we really do. Over the last six months we have had more than 90 students, approximately 92 students if I recall, working on this performance. In four years we have seen such tremendous growth and we really owe it to the community, the support of the community, the Board of Education, the administration, the staff and faculty and the community and parents who have come back year after year, and the teachers. Our students are why we do it year in and year out and this year. I know Michelle Goldfarb is particularly having a tough time because it is four years that she started. You see those students come through the program in four years and they have achieved a great deal. Three of those seniors are here tonight, they just happen to be here for senior night as well and we would just like to tell you that they, in the 22 schools that were nominated at the Halo Awards, we did win in three categories. We are really, really very proud of these students. The couple, Kathleen Campagnia is junior so she is not here tonight but Roger makes the other half of that leading couple that won for the musical, Roger Oullette. (Applause)
Ms. Goldfarb: For our best male comedic performance, and you know him well, winning for the role of Moonfaced Martin is our Will Zeman. (Applause) For best actress in a musical, Ms. Amber Woods. (Applause)
I am proud of them in many ways, not just because they are talented but one of the things that they have done over the four years, two or three, how ever long they have all been involved in the musical. They really took their senior year as a year to be a leader. They were always positive on stage and they helped me a lot with keeping newer cast members focused and understanding how behind the scenes works in a show. So not just for their talent but for who they are personally, I will miss them all.
Ms. Chenkus: Once again thank you to the Board of Ed, we went from condemned lighting to amazing lights this year, thank you. (Applause)
Ms. Goldfarb: I just want to add that at the elementary level, all those wonderful students that I heard I want to see come up to the High School, welcome to our show because we could use their talent and showcase them.
Report from Student Council Representative – Mr. William Zeman
Mr. Zeman: Thank you Mrs. Dzioba. I will do the actually business part first and then I will do my little farewell thing. Tonight, and Matt Dzioba mentioned this last year when he was doing his final report, is our second annual yearbook night, where all the seniors have gotten to come into the cafeteria. There is lots of ice cream, it is really good ice cream, and we have all gotten a chance to receive our yearbooks. It is nice huh, Mr. Hasbrouck is on the back selling gum, like it should be, more money for the school. We got a chance to get them and to sign them, look around and look through them. It is pretty amazing, I would like to pass it around and let Board Members take a closer look.
As for me, it has been a really interesting experience being a Board of Ed rep for the last year. I remember Dr. Erardi had me on his show, One Student at a Time, back when it was still competing with the Indian Inquisitor. He had me on his show and he asked me what I hoped to accomplish in my one year with the Board of Education and I think I gave him some sort of baloney answer and just kind of talked a lot because I had no idea. But thinking back on it, I think half of my tenure basically got spent with Tower Road and continue to believe that was the right decision that this Board made and I thank you for it. I think you are going to see even more improvements over the next year and hopefully eventually maybe we can even talk about, some Board of Ed rep can talk about the morning. But I do think it helped and I do think it is a great safety alleviator and I think it is a good thing that we went ahead and did that and I thank the Board for it.
The other half, I tried to highlight because Matt Dzioba highlighted with your before certain classes at the High School. I tried to highlight the clubs and other elements of student life because I think it is really important for this Board of Ed and every Board of Ed, to understand what the students are doing. Because without the students, no offense, but you guys would really have a job. So it is important to understand what the students are doing, it is important to really follow them and believe in them and see where their priorities are. Where they need to be helped up. I want to thank you and it looks like this town is really turning around. Congratulations on your new High School and your new Elementary School and your new Middle School. I would like to introduce my replacement his name is Chris Terzigni. He is right over there (Applause). This is the third year that I have known Chris. Chris is an incredibly hard worker, he is incredibly dedicated, he is captain of the Boy’s Tennis Team and he is going to do a great job.
Ms. Dzioba: Will, would you like to join your fellow seniors?
Mr. Zeman: You know, I have gone through all the rest of the meetings so I will go through this one too, besides it ended about 20 minutes ago.
No report from PTA/PTO Liaison due to Ms. Kace DuPlissie absence
E. Budget Summary – (Information Only – No Action Required)
Ms. Dzioba: Budget summary is in the packet for all Board Members to review, if you have any questions please contact the Superintendent.
F. Committee Reports:
1. Advertising Committee, Todd Griffin, Chair
Mr. Griffin: There is no report this evening
2. Athletics Committee, Chris Lafferty, Chair
Mr. Lafferty: There is no report this evening.
3. Budget Committee, Todd Griffin, Chair
Mr. Griffin: The only report I have this evening is to say thanks very much to everyone who came out and showed the overwhelming enthusiasm to boost our kids into the next century. We really, really, really appreciate it and we made the right decision, thank you very much.
4. Curriculum & Instruction Committee, Gina Calabrese, Chair
Mr. Killeen: Ms. Calabrese has asked me to present the minutes she prepared from the meeting. The curriculum and instruction committee met on Wednesday, May 30th at 3:30pm at Watertown High School library. Several staff members from our various schools provided informative overviews of proposed new or revised textbooks for the 2007-2008 school year. Committee members endorsed the textbooks, which are being presented to the full board this evening for the first read. The list will be proposed for approval at the next Board Meeting, I am not sure that is the case though is it? In any case I will read on, a brief but thorough overview of Watertown High School curriculum committee meetings from January 22nd to May 14th was delivered by Mrs. Spieler. Mr. Hasbrouck presented the Watertown High School 2010 plan, which very methodically and clearly lays out how NEASC recommendations will be addressed and how courses will be prepared to match the updated syllabus. The plan is a work in progress, updates will be periodically provided to the curriculum and instruction committee. Mr. Hasbrouck also described in detail the proposed partnership with Naugatuck Valley Community Technical College that will allow juniors and seniors at Watertown High School to enroll in selected courses for both High School and College credit. This partnership will allow course offerings for students as recommended by NEASC at no charge to the school district. He also proposed the cost effective after-school Watertown Alternative Learning Community Program designed for students who had difficulty succeeding in regular High School setting. The program is included in the 200702008 budget. The curriculum and instruction committee endorsed both the aforementioned initiatives, which are on the evening’s agenda for full board approval.
5. Facilities Committee, Rich Mazzamaro, Chair
Mr. Mazzamaro: The facilities subcommittee met tonight in the library before this meeting and we had a fairly aggressive agenda. We discussed Energy Education, a proprietary energy savings program that had been brought before the Board at a past meeting. The committee thought as a whole that it might be best to hold off on this until after the three schools are renovated and it was decided to bring it to the full board for discussion in our July meeting. We also discussed Todd LoFrese updated the committee on the progress that has already started on the three school renovations. A lot of the work has already begun and there is a lot of work to be done in the next month as far as that goes. Teams are being assembled to look at the academic needs of each of the schools and there is a bunch of design and development work that is going to be started as well. Under other we discussed just some maintenance issues around some of our grounds and also a State reimbursement for John Trumbull Primary School project dating back to the year 2001.
6. Policy and Labor Committee, Mary Colangelo, Chair
Ms. Colangelo: There is no report. We are trying to get a meeting together to review the proposed dress code policy however due to scheduling conflicts, year end activities, etc we are hoping for early July.
7. Cablevision, Kevin Killeen, Chair
Mr. Killeen: No report this evening
8. PBC Representative, Rich Mazzamaro
Mr. Mazzamaro: No report this evening
9. Education Connection Representative, Mary Dzioba
Ms. Dzioba: No report
10. Town Hall Joint Committee,
Ms. Dzioba: We added the Town Hall joint committee as one of our committee reports. This committee is (inaudible) by four Town Council Members, the Town Manager and Dr. Erardi, Tom Lambert and myself. We will add reports as the Town looks to replacing the Town Hall. We will report on the progress of the position and keep everybody updated. I will ask that from now on that it will be Tom Lambert who would make such reports.
G. Communications – Secretary
Mr. Griffin: There are no communications this evening.
H. Minutes
1. Regular Board of Education Meeting – May 29, 2007
Motion Presented by Mr. Griffin seconded by Mr. Mazzamaro to accept the Regular Board of Education Meeting Minutes of May 29, 2007.
Motion Passed
(7-In Favor, 0-Opposed, 1 Abstained)
In favor: Ms. Dzioba, Mr. Griffin, Ms. Colangelo, Mr. Killeen, Mr. Lafferty, Mr. Lambert and Mr. Mazzamaro
Abstained: Ms. Pannone
I. Superintendent's Recommendations and Report
1. Appointments – (Information Only – No Action Required)
a. Ms. Paulina Auclair to the position of Yearbook Advisor at Watertown High School for the 2006-2007 school year at a contractual stipend of $1,915.00.
b. Mr. William Balanda to the position of Assistant Boys’ Track Coach at Watertown High School for the 2006-2007 school year at a contractual stipend of $1,625.00.
c. Ms. Michelle Goldfarb to the position of Co-Junior Class Advisor at Watertown High School for the 2006-2007 school year at a contractual stipend of $456.50.
d. Ms. Michelle Goldfarb to the position of Co-Junior Variety Show Advisor at Watertown High School for the 2006-2007 school year at a contractual stipend of $803.50.
e. Ms. Monica Kreuzer to the position of Assistant Senior Class Advisor at Watertown High School for the 2006-2007 school year at a contractual stipend of $481.00.
f. Mr. Allen Marko to the position of Student Council Advisor at Watertown High School for the 2006-2007 school year at a contractual stipend of $1,824.00.
g. Ms. Louisa Monti-Bovi to the position of Co-Newspaper Advisor at Watertown High School for the 2006-2007 school year at a contractual stipend of $803.50.
h. Ms. Kendra O’Brien to the position of Co-Junior Class Advisor at Watertown High School for the 2006-2007 school year at a contractual stipend of $456.50.
i. Ms. Kendra O’Brien to the position of Co-Junior Variety Show Advisor at Watertown High School for the 2006-2007 school year at a contractual stipend of $803.50.
j. Ms. Kendra O’Brien to the position of Distributive Education Advisor at Watertown High School for the 2006-2007 school year at a contractual stipend of $1,205.00.
k. Ms. Colleen Spieler to the position of Senior Class Advisor at Watertown High School for the 2006-2007 school year at a contractual stipend of $1,607.00.
l. Mr. Dane Street to the position of Honor Society Advisor at Watertown High School for the 2006-2007 school year at a contractual stipend of $1,607.00.
m. Ms. Joan Zimmerman to the position of F.B.L.A. Advisor at Watertown High School for the 2006-2007 school year at a contractual stipend of $2,051.00.
n. Mr. Dan Zoni to the position of Co-Newspaper Advisor at Watertown High School for the 2006-2007 school year at a contractual stipend of $803.50.
2. Transfers – (Information Only – No Action Required)
a. Ms. Terri Downey from Payroll Officer, (Sec. II – Grade IV) to Cafeteria Payroll/Accounting Clerk (Accounting Clerk – Grade III) in the Food Service Department At Watertown High School effective to start no later than August 31, 2007.
3. Resignations – (Information Only – No Action Required)
Ms. Gail Ciarleglio from the position of Paraprofessional, Early Learning Skills, at John Trumbull Primary School effective May 24, 2007 for personal reasons.
Dr. Erardi: Thank you Mrs. Dzioba. Board member’s questions at all on Appointments, Transfers or Resignations?
The Board had no questions regarding Item #1, #2 or #3
4. Update – Three School Project
The Superintendent will present additional information on the three-school project.
Dr. Erardi: We will move on to item 4 of the Superintendent’s report, Mr. LoFrese has a brief report for the Board of Education in regards to an update of our three school project.
Mr. LoFrese: Good evening, thank you. As Mr. Mazzamaro reported earlier work has begun in earnest on the three-school project. This afternoon representatives from KBA, the project architect, the specific architect for each school, met the school principles. We developed a time line for the next two weeks to begin the process of meeting with school staff and department team leaders to gather the necessary information to begin design and development work. We still have some work to do to get our state grant in order, which I believe Ms. Dzioba will be reporting on a little bit later in her report. To summarize some of the key points, we need to have a grant application up to the State by June 30th, work is well under way to meet that date and we also need to approve the educational specifications for the three projects. That work is also underway and we will begin from there. Thank you.
Dr. Erardi: Questions at all on the three-school project?
The Board had no questions regarding Item #4
Dr. Erardi: Just to close out that agenda item I would like to publicly thank the facilities committee under the direction of Mr. Mazzamaro who I thought did just an exceptional job with the organization of information. And a second thank you to Mrs. Judd, Mrs. Corvello and Mr. Hasbrouck, our principals at Judson, Polk and the High School. On top of their full time job, prioritized the needs of this community and made themselves available for the past six weeks to make sure that all questions were answered. Lastly as Mr. Griffin said, a resounding thank you to this community for allowing us to go forward for children and to have our facilities in great shape for next 25 years.
5. First Reading of the Proposed New or Revised Textbooks for the 2007-2008 School Year
In accordance with Section 10-229 of the Connecticut General Statutes, a list of textbooks is presented this evening to provide a minimum notification of one week of our intent to adopt said books for instructional use. This list will be proposed for approval at our next Board meeting. This list has been reviewed by all program leaders, administrators, and central office personnel. The Curriculum and Instruction Committee reviewed and endorsed these books and materials at its last meeting.
Dr. Erardi: Dr. Pelosi will bring the Board up to speed on item #5 in regards to textbooks for 07-08, Dr. Pelosi.
Dr. Pelosi: As you know according to the Connecticut Statutes, we have to present to the public the list of new books or new additions of textbooks and/or workbooks that are being proposed for the student use in the 2007-2008 school year. The list has been thoroughly reviewed by the administration, by the teachers, all of who will be using them. Cases were made, presentations to the Superintendent and his administrative team, the budget committee meetings, questions were raised at that level. We also presented to the Board’s budget committee and they are now being presented to the full Board for your consideration and any questions that you may have. All of the books that you have in the attachment to the agenda, attachment A, each book, each series, each adoption has been budgeted for and they are all within the budgeted amount, that has been approved in the budget, nothing has gone over budget, we made sure of that. I don’t know at this point if you have any questions, you will be voting on this as Mr. Killeen said in his report, at the next Board of Education meeting.
The Board had no questions regarding Item #5
6. Transfer of Funds – (Information Only 0 No Action Required)
At its meeting on November 22, 2004, the Board took action to reaffirm that the Director of Budget and Financial Planning may continue to make transfers of $2,000 or less between objects without prior Board approval. Attached, for information only, are a number of those transfers.
Dr. Erardi: Seeing no questions we will move on, thank you Dr. Pelosi. Item #6 again is for informational purposes to the Board of Education. Mrs. Grover is here this evening if Board Members do have questions in regards to the transfer of funds which is listed in your Board packet. Questions at all in regards to transfer of funds?
The Board had no questions regarding Item #6
7. Watertown High School 2010 Plan
At the Board’s Curriculum and Instruction Committee meeting of May 30, 2007, the committee received a draft of the Watertown High School 2010 document. This document contains projections for new courses and staff. Since this is a work in progress, this report is attached for informational and reactive purposes. Additional reports will be presented to the Curriculum and Instruction Committee as appropriate.
Dr. Erardi: The last item on the Superintendent’s report will go back to Dr. Pelosi in regards to Watertown High School 2010.
Dr. Pelosi: The High School has been busy working on a draft of the High School vision for the High School in the year 2010. Hopefully which is in line with the completion of the renovation. We had to take into consideration also taken into consideration is the NEASC recommendations, staffing, facilities, courses that should be brought back in some cases, new courses in other cases. This has been approved by the High School’s curriculum and instruction committee, it has also been endorsed to come forward to the Board so that you receive it this evening by the Board’s curriculum and instruction committee. It is still a work in progress, there were questions that have been raised as a result of the draft and that will still be worked through next year at the High School level. All information will then be brought forward to the Board C & I and then to the full Board as a whole. If at any time you have any questions you can funnel those questions either through the Board Chair or through the C & I committee chair, Mrs. Calabrese or any member and we will consider your concerns and hopefully respond to them. The draft is in here and Mr. Hasbrouck is also here this evening if there are any specific questions or he will be at the meetings in the event that you have further questions. It is a very extensive document and the High School administration and staff are to be commended for the work that has been done to date. As I said it is just a beginning, we will I believe, this will be submitted to NEASC with our two-year report along with the funding stream for the High School now that the budget has passed.
Dr. Erardi: Questions at all on item #7, the 2010 plan? I am hoping that Board members take some time, as Dr. Pelosi stated it is an extensive document. I think it is a document rich with transformations of what you would be very proud of to call Watertown High School. You can be equally proud today but enhanced opportunity for students as we move through our building projects and our program of studies. My last comment is just to thank the high School administration, the curriculum chairs and staff for their work with that project. And you will also note that the oversight from Dr. Pelosi’s office, in regards to 2010 and all of our curriculum initiatives this year coupled with Todd LoFrese’s oversight for our three-school project with facility upgrades at the High School. The work has just been outstanding, so Dr. Pelosi and Mr. LoFrese thank you. This concludes the superintendent’s report.
J. Report from the Chairman
Mrs. Dzioba: For my report I would like to ask all Board Members to make sure that as Todd stated in his report, we have the grant application approval that needs to be complete by the 25th, so we definitely need a quorum for that day. If there is any chance that you are not going to make it please notify the Munson House as soon as possible. If need be, if we don’t have a quorum we will have to set up a special meeting because this is time sensitive, a time sensitive vote.
Another thing that is coming up soon is that we will be entering negotiations into, with the administrators union. This will be, this negotiation team has representatives from the Town Council which this year will be Ray Primini and Jack Walton. Next meeting, the 25th I will be needing Board of Ed representatives for those negotiations.
We have a budget, we have a budget, we have a positive vote on the three schools and I would like on behalf of the Board to thank everyone. Especially Dr. Erardi and his outstanding work but also all members of the Munson House, and Mary and Phil and Todd and everyone else. The administrators, everybody worked very, very hard along with the PTA’s and PTO’s, there was a lot of hard work led by Dr. Erardi and but it certainly paid off. I also would like most of all to thank the public for coming out and supporting us. This is the second year in a row that our budget has passed on the first vote. It is the first that I can remember that it passed in all four voting stations. I just want to say that for the past two years that people have voted for the budget not because of the fear of what they would loose if the budget didn’t pass but the opportunities that we would be gaining because the budget does pass. I think that this Town has united together as one Town for support of the Town budget, the education budget and of course our school buildings. I am very happy and very appreciative of all the Town (inaudible). Polk and Judson will get the needed repairs and updates that they needed. The goals of the High School with this new building and the new programs is not only for accreditation to be fully restored but I really feel that with all these opportunities and with the Town support that Watertown High School could soon be one of the best High Schools in the state of Connecticut, and I think that that should be our goal.
Tonight Will is your last night and on behalf of the Board of Education I just want to say that we have enjoyed your reports, we appreciate your insight and we really appreciate your efforts and everything you have done, Tower road and other things. We wish you luck next year at American University in Washington DC. We know that you will be successful there and the only request that I have is that you remember to invite all of us to your inauguration. (Laughter) Thank you that concludes my report.
Mr. Zeman: Well that’s not any pressure, huh?
Laughter
K. Action Items – Adoption of Items to be Approved by Consent
a 1. Consideration of the Approval of Resolution for Swift Middle School Artificial Turf Field – Tabled May 29, 2007
Motion presented by Mr. Mazzamaro, seconded by Mr. Griffin that the Board of Education bring the Consideration of the Approval of the Resolution for Swift Middle School Artificial Turf back onto the Table.
Discussion: None
Motion passed unanimously
(8-In Favor, 0-Opposed, 0-Abstained)
a 2. Consideration of the Approval of Resolution for Swift Middle School Artificial Turf Field – Tabled May 29, 2007
WHEREAS, The Board of Education of Watertown has reviewed the proposed recreational development of the area locally known as the Swift Middle School Artificial Turf Field.
NOW, THEREFORE, be it resolved by the Board:
1. That approval is given for the construction and development of said recreational facilities on Board of Education property;
2. That said recreational facilities will be open to the general public for the times generally described on the enclosed schedule of use.
It is recommended that the Board approve of the Resolution for Swift Middle School Artificial Turf Field.
Motion presented by Mr. Mazzamaro, seconded by Ms. Pannone that the Board of Education approve of the Resolution for Swift Middle School Artificial Turf.
Discussion: None
Motion passed unanimously
(8-In Favor, 0-Opposed, 0-Abstained
b. Consideration of Approval of BEST Program
The Selection Committee for BEST met on Thursday, May 31, 2007 to interview candidates interested in becoming cooperating/mentor teachers.
We were fortunate to have a wonderful Selection Committee to meet with the candidates. These members were: Marylu Lerz – BEST Interview Chairperson, Sally Rinaldi – BEST Facilitator, Pamela Jenusaitis and Mary Beth Gallo.
The BEST Committee presents:
Erin Cortes – Judson School, Grade 4 Teacher
Jennifer Longo – Judson School, Grade 4 Teacher
Chryll Beliveau – Judson School, Grade 5 Teacher
Danielle O’Leary – Heminway Park School, Gr. 6 Reading Teacher
Mary Jane Miller – High School, Foreign Language Teacher
Michael Cerrato – High School, Social Studies Teacher
Motion presented by Mr. Lafferty, seconded by Mr. Mazzamaro to approve of the BEST program as presented.
Discussion: None
Motion passed unanimously
(8-In Favor, 0-Opposed, 0-Abstained)
c. Consideration of the Approval of the Naugatuck Valley Community College (NVCC) – Watertown High School Partnership
After discussion with administrators at NVCC and Watertown High School (WHS), a partnership emerged to allow juniors and seniors at WHS to enroll in selected courses at NVCC for dual credit (high school and college credit).
At the Curriculum and Instruction Committee meeting of May 30, 2007, the Curriculum and Instruction Committee members endorsed the Naugatuck Valley Community College – Watertown High School Partnership.
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the Naugatuck Valley Community College – Watertown High School Partnership, effective with the 2007-2008 school year.
Motion presented by Mr. Lafferty, seconded by Ms. Colangelo to approve of the Naugatuck Valley Community
College – Watertown High School Partnership, effective with the 2007-2008 school year.
Discussion: None
Motion Passed Unanimously
(8-In Favor, 0-Opposed, 0-Abstained)
d. Consideration of the Approval of the Watertown Alternative Learning Community (WALC)
The Watertown Alternative Learning Community (WALC) is a cost-effective program designed for students that have had difficulty succeeding in the regular high school setting. WALC is an after-school partnership of students, parents, staff and community committed to providing an accepting environment for the student that is in need of an alternative school program. This program is included in the 2007-2008 budget.
At the Curriculum and Instruction Committee meeting of May 30, 2007, the Curriculum and Instruction Committee members endorsed the Watertown Alternative Learning Community after-school program.
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the Watertown Alternative Learning
Community program, effective with the 2007-2008 school year.
Motion presented by Mr. Lafferty, seconded by Mr. Mazzamaro to approve of the Watertown Alternative Learning Community program, effective with the 2007-2008 school year.
Discussion: None
Motion Passed Unanimously
(8-In Favor, 0-Opposed, 0-Abstained)
e. Consideration of the Approval of Acceptance of Gifts
Mr. and Mrs. Anthony Bartholomeo wishes to donate a H.P. PhotoSmart Printer #8250, with an estimated value of $130.00 to the photography department at Watertown High School.
It is recommended that the Board approve of the acceptance of a H.P. PhotoSmart printer #8250 from Mr. and Mrs. Anthony Bartholomeo with an estimated value of $130.00 to the photography department at Watertown High School and a letter of thanks to be sent to the donor.
Motion presented by Mr. Lafferty, seconded by Mr. Mazzamaro to accept an H.P. PhotoSmart printer #8250 from Mr. and Mrs. Anthony Bartholomeo with an estimated value of $130.00 to the photography department at Watertown High School and a letter of thanks to be sent to the donor.
Discussion: None
Motion Passed Unanimously
(8-In Favor, 0-Opposed, 0-Abstained)
f. Consideration of the Approval of the Watertown School Lunch Program Under Section 10-215f of the CT General Statutes
The Watertown Public School District and pursuant to section 10-215f of the Connecticut General Statutes, hereby certifies that all food items offered for sale to students in the school(s) under our jurisdiction, and not exempted from the Connecticut Nutrition Standards published by the Connecticut State Department of Education will meet said standards during the period of July 1, 2007 through June 30, 2008. Such certification shall include all food offered for sale to students separately from reimbursable meals at all times and from all sources, including but not limited to, school stores, vending machines, school cafeterias, and any fundraising activities on school premises, whether or not school sponsored.
Pursuant to section 10-215f of the Connecticut General Statutes, the Watertown Public School District acknowledges that the Board of Education or governing authority will exclude from certification food items that do not meet the Connecticut Nutrition Standards, provided that (1) such food is sold in connection with an event occurring after the end of the regular school day or on the weekend, (2) such sale is at the location of the event, and (3) such food is not sold from a vending machine or school store.
It is recommended that the Board approve of the Watertown School Lunch Program pursuant to section 10-215f of the Connecticut General Statutes.
Motion presented by Mr. Lafferty, seconded by Mr. Mazzamaro to approve of the Watertown School Lunch Program pursuant to section 10-215f of the Connecticut General Statutes.
Discussion: None
Motion Passed Unanimously
(8-In Favor, 0-Opposed, 0-Abstained)
g. Consideration of the Approval of Student Accident/Interscholastic Sports Insurance for 2007-2008, 2008-2009, and 2009-2010 School Years
Three (3) bids were received for the Student Accident / Interscholastic Sports Insurance for 2007-2008, 2008-2009, and 2009-2010 school years.
It is recommended that the Lefebvre Insurance, the low bidder for Interscholastic Sports, be awarded the bid for 2007-2008, 2008-2009, and 2009-2010 school years.
Motion presented by Mr. Griffin, seconded by Mr. Mazzamaro to approve the Lefebvre Insurance, the low
bidder for Interscholastic Sports, be awarded the bid for 2007-2008, 2008-2009, and 2009-2010 school years.
Discussion: None
Motion Passed Unanimously
(8-In Favor, 0-Opposed, 0-Abstained)
L. Future Agenda Items and Board Members’ Comments
Mr. Killeen: Just a comment Madame Chair. The June 5th referendum past us, I would just like to say what a privilege it is to work with this Board of Education and those professionals who are here with us. This is very exciting and this town, Watertown (inaudible). Again I would just like to say thank you to those who are here and to everyone in the education community, who really made it possible.
Mr. Lambert: I also would like to second that thought about the June 5th referendum. I think that Dr. Erardi as we know was the head cheerleader. And I think that we all followed in his footsteps, especially with the PTA’s and PTO’s at Judson and Polk and the High School, principals and staff, all came through for us, getting all the people together. It was truly, I was actually shocked at a couple of the districts with the yes votes. I was really, really shocked and I am very thankful to the taxpayers of this Town. I think they are having faith in the system and the schools and the administration. Thank you.
Ms. Colangelo: I would just like to ditto those remarks. I won’t go on to repeat what has been said but I just want to say thank you to all involved.
Mr. Lafferty: How could we not be appreciative of what happened after June 5th. After what everyone else has said here tonight I can only agree with that. June 5th was just an amazing night, an amazing day, just the response that we got from the people that I saw standing out by the poles, who were going in to vote. It was just, we needed to see this, we are taking a turn in the right direction again. I would like to add one more thing, just to make it public. This is about, it is just to wish a fond farewell to Mr. Will Zeman. The position of student council representative, I think it is one that in years is often has been overlooked by the people who hold it. They don’t understand what the full potential of their position is. I think last year, I can only speak of those I have worked with, Matt Dzioba he really laid the foundation for what a good student council representative would be and you filled the shoes very nicely. I think your approach to it, you forged your own identity and I think you have taken the identity of the class, which is a very strong one, and you brought it forward to this Board and you really championed a lot of issues that for years, come classes and some people have been afraid to stand up to. Whether it be an issue such as Tower Road, however you feel about it or not, I think the fact that your class stepped forward and really worked as adamantly as they did with you in the lead, it is very commendable. I would like to say I am looking forward to working with Chris Terzigni next year, I know Chris as one of the members of the swimming and diving team and I would just like to back up what Will said about his character. Chris is an exceptional guy and we are going to have three years in a row from what I can see of having a great student council representative. So thank you very much everyone for your time and thank you once again to the community.
Ms. Pannone: I would just like to say one thing. I worked at the polls, I was at Polk School and for the first time I saw many, many young parents come in and finally they were interested in the vote. I think a lot of that goes to praise for the principals because I am sure that the kids were coming in saying “Mom make sure you vote”. So with that in mind I think that it really mushroomed and we were so pleased to see so many people. We really worked really hard because a lot of people came in. And again Will, congratulations, good luck.
M. Public Participation
None
N. Executive Session
Personnel Matter
Motion presented by Mr. Mazzamaro, seconded by Ms. Colangelo to enter into Executive Session with Dr. Erardi and all Board Members listed as present.
Motion Passed Unanimously
(8-In Favor, 0-Opposed, 0-Abstained)
Executive Session convened at 8:50 p.m.
Executive Session ended at 9:27 p.m.
O. Adjournment
Motion presented by Ms. Colangelo, seconded by Ms. Lambert to adjourn the Regular Board of Education Meeting of June 11, 2007.
Motion Passed Unanimously
(8-In Favor, 0-Opposed, 0-Abstained)
Meeting adjourned at 9:27 p.m.
Respectfully Submitted by
Todd Griffin, Board Secretary
Bonnie Goulet, Board Clerk
|