Watertown Board of Education
Regular Meeting
Minutes
Meeting Date: June 12, 2006
Meeting Time: 7:30 p.m.
Meeting Place: Watertown High School Library
Members Present: Ms. Mary Dzioba, Board Chairperson
Mr. Todd Griffin, Board Secretary
Ms. Gina Calabrese, Board Member
Ms. Mary Colangelo, Board Member
Mr. Thomas Lambert, Board Member
Mr. James Marks, Board Member
Mr. Richard Mazzamaro, 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. Matthew Dzioba, W.H.S. Student Representative
Ms. Kace Duplissie, PTA/PTO Representative
Absent: Mr. Chris Lafferty, Board member
Press: Jim Taylor, Town Times
Tommy Valuckas, Waterbury Republican American
Guests: Will Zeman, Jen Stewart, Thad Hasbrouck, Marylu Lerz, Kathleen Scully, Pat Corvello, Fran Palmer, Anthony Antonucci, Matthew Geary, Marcia Moriarty, Nadine Savage, Diane Hubacz, Aba Sam, Adam Kuegler, Brianna Meka, Micaela Grogan, Rebecca Karabus, Amelia Luciano, Alexsandr Sklyar, Kristina Ciarlo, Caitlin Harkins, Theresa Atallah, Jessica Pepin, Monica Rinaldi, Anuja Oak, Jeffery Zaremski Heather Goldberg, Katherine Dumschott, Attorney Franklin Pilicy, Attorney Frank Regan, David Kaine, Charlie Beliveau, Keith Pepin, Lynn Pepin, Mark Grogan, Chris Grogan
A. Convene Regular Meeting - 7:30 PM
Ms. Dzioba convened the Regular Board of Education meeting at 7:30 p.m.
B. Salute to the Flag
Ms. Dzioba led the Salute to the Flag.
Ms. Dzioba: We have quite a few recognitions tonight, actually there are some recipients just walking in right now. I would like to turn this meeting over to the Superintendent for the recognitions.
Dr. Erardi: Thank you Ms. Dzioba. Before we start with our recognition I would like to move out of order for just a second and allow our student representative Matthew Dzioba to make his report before the recognition this evening.
Report from Student Council Representative – Mr. Matthew Dzioba
Mr. Dzioba: I don’t have much prepared for tonight, we graduate in one week. Tonight the PTO is hosting the yearbook night. I would just like to thank the Board of Education very much for this year I have had with you. Also I have here tonight Mr. Will Zeman, if he could stand. Will will be your student rep, next year you will be working with him. The other officers for the Student Council will be as follows:
President: Brittney Polites
Secretary: Amber Wood
Treasurer: Arielle Polites
Representative to the Board of Ed: Will Zeman
Representative to the PTO: Alex Tineos
Vice President: Brenna Czudak
Thank you very much.
Round of applause
Ms. Dzioba: Thank you very much Matthew for all you have done this year.
C. Recognition
a. 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.
Nicholas Mondak – John Trumbull Primary School, Grade 2
Aba Sam – John Trumbull Primary School, Grade 1
Adam Kuegler – Judson School, Grade 5
Brianna Meka – Judson School, Grade 4
Micaela Grogan – Polk School, Grade 5
Rebecca Karabus – Polk School, Grade 4
Dr. Erardi: Matthew thank you. The format that we will use for our celebration of excellence will have a pattern to it and were hoping that you can hold applause until we finishing recognizing a particular school. We’ll be recognizing students from a school and parents from the school. We’ll line up all the students and all the parents and have one round of applause that works for everybody. I’d like to invite Mr. Griffin to join Ms. Dzioba for the John Trumbull Celebration of Excellence and I’d like to invite Ms. Scully the building Principal to join Mr. Griffin and Ms. Dzioba.
We will start with our two student honorees being recognized as the outstanding students at John Trumbull Primary School. Students when you hear your name, what we’d like you to do is to stand and tell us if your mom is here or your dad is here, if you could introduce your parents or any other invited guests. You’ll receive your certificate from Ms. Dzioba and then you will have the chance to shake the hand of your building Principal. You’ll have the chance to shake the hand of a Board of Education Member who has been responsible for your building and then you will line up to my far right. It’s an awful lot to remember.
Laughter and agreement from the audience
Dr. Erardi: Nicholas Mondak. Nick where are you? Nicholas Mondak, is Nicholas here yet? I know he is coming because I spoke to him today.
Aba Sam, Aba can you stand and let us know who is with you. Nice and loud, you can come over to me and we can use the microphone.
Aba Sam: My mom and my dad and my aunt and my little brother and my big brother and my uncle.
Laughter
Dr. Erardi: Aba thank you, if you could stand with Ms. Dzioba, come right around.
Applause
Dr. Erardi: Aba is a leader at John Trumbull School, and I quote from her teacher, Mrs. Baker: “I would like to nominate Aba Sam for the Superintendent’s Award. She is a young lady of excellent character, she is caring and respectful of the needs of others. She is a responsible academic student, she demonstrates this by participating readily in class and demonstrating a keen ability to use higher order thinking skills. Aba is a model student in every respect.” Aba Congratulations. Aba if you could stand right over here.
Applause
Dr. Erardi: Has Nicholas Mondak joined us yet? Is Nicholas here yet? We’ll come back to Nicholas. Along with honorees at John Trumbull their PTA this year has just been extraordinary for students, extraordinary for staff and administration and very, very instrumental in making the future a much brighter future for all students. We’d like to recognize, if the following PTA Executive Board Members would come forward, there is a certificate for you and you will stand with Aba. We’ll hold applause until we hear everyone in regard from our John Trumbull Primary School PTA.
John Trumbull Primary School
Nadine Savage, President
Rob Gurry, Co-Vice President
Lisa Pavao, Co-Vice President
Marianne Pannoni, Co-Vice President
Rose Harris, Treasurer
Pam Kosloski, Recording Secretary
Denise Giampietro, Corresponding Secretary
Christie Bennett, Member at Large
Katie Consalvo, Member at Large
Kim Pietrorazio, Member at Large
Valerie Petrillo, Member at Large
Lisa Wilburn, Member at Large
PTA members came forward and received certificates
Dr. Erardi: One more call for Nicholas Mondak, has he arrived? We’ll come back to him. Folks, your outstanding student and outstanding parent leaders from John Trumbull Primary School. Congratulations.
Applause
Dr. Erardi: Folks you can sit down, thank you. Mr. Mazzamaro if you can join the Judson School celebration with Principal, Ms. Corvello. We will start with our two student leaders, Adam Kuegler. Adam if you can stand and come forward please. Adam if you could introduce the folks that are with you.
Adam Kuegler: My mom and my dad and my aunt are here.
Dr. Erardi: Thank you, if you could stand right with Ms. Dzioba. Adam is being recognized as one of two outstanding students as Judson School. The nomination comes from Adam’s teacher Mrs. Beliveau and she writes: “It is with great pleasure that I am recommending Adam Kuegler for the Superintendent Student Award. Adam has always displayed a high degree of integrity, responsibility and ambition. He is definitely a leader rather than a follower. Adam has an impeccable academic record and always strives to improve his work. In addition to his excellent scholastic accomplishments he has proven his leadership ability by serving as the President of the Judson School Student Council for the past two years. He has also participated and served as chairman of many activities and fundraisers sponsored by the Student Council including food drives, a food bank, all students exercising simultaneously, and a guessing games committee. He continuously gives up his lunch and recess to attend an organization meeting or to assist in setting up for activities. Adam is always there to assist a classmate that is having difficulty in a subject, has shared his lunch with special needs students and always provides kind words and kind thoughts. He not only participates within the Student Council but makes consistent contributions to other organizations. Adam participates in his church group, he is a member of Scout Troop 140, he also participates in food drives, Scouting projects and plays Little League Baseball.” Adam, you’re a real busy guy. “His good judgement and mature outlook ensure a logical and practical approach to his endeavors throughout his life. Adam is a well rounded, motivated individual who has high standards for himself with a great outlook on life, who excepts life’s challenges with enthusiasm and vigor. Adam is truly a remarkable individual who is most deserving of the Superintendent Student Award.” Congratulations.
Applause
Dr. Erardi: Brianna Meka, Brianna if you can come forward.
Brianna Meka: My mom, my dad, my sister.
Dr. Erardi: Brianna is a fourth grade student with Ms. Dasilva: “Brianna was nominated for this award because of her dedication to academic excellence and her outstanding academic and leadership ability. Brianna is willing to help others and is very responsive to the needs of her peers. Brianna and is also very talented in motivating others to achieve personal and academic success. This year Brianna motivated her homeroom class to bring in cans to support the food drive. She sung a set of solos in the schools production and earned an award for her poetry from the Watertown Library Association. In her spare time Brianna is a Girl Scout who volunteers her time with a local Daisy Troop. In each academic class, Brianna is always there to lend a hand and help out students who need a kind word or little motivation to complete an assignment. She is also able to accept help when she needs it, allowing others to help her. Brianna strives hard to achieve her dreams. Brianna always makes sure her homework is complete and done to the best of her ability. Her passion for academic success and her outgoing personality are personal traits that her teacher and friends admire about her. Brianna has shared with me that she would like to become a teacher one day.” We have a contract for you. “I hope this award inspires her to achieve her dreams so that she can continue to inspire and motivate others around her now and in the future.” Brianna, Congratulations.
Applause
Dr. Erardi: We would also like to recognize the leadership of the Judson Parent Group, their PTA, for their hard work throughout the year with their students, staff and the support for administration:
Judson School
Diane Hubacz, Co-President
Lisa Cattaneo, Co-President
Audrey Brown, Vice President
Catherine Kearns, Treasurer
Mary Beth Gallo, Recording Secretary
Claire Lamontagne, Corresponding Secretary
Sandy Biolo, Member at Large
Debbie Bugryn, Member at Large
Laurie Hudson, Member at Large
Julie Herrmann, Member at Large
PTA members came forward and received certificates
Dr. Erardi: Congratulations and thank you to our student and parent leaders for the school year.
Applause
Dr. Erardi: Mr. Lambert if you could join Ms. Dzioba please and Ms Corvello, is Ms Corvello here? I’m sorry Ms. Judd, is Ms. Judd here?, We will continue. Our two student leaders from Polk Elementary School, Micaela Grogan. Micaela if you could come forward please.
Micaela Grogan: My mom, my dad, my brother, my nana and my grandma.
Dr. Erardi: Can they raise their hands so we know where they are. Micaela if you could stand with Ms. Dzioba. “Ideal student, perfect behavior and perfect responsibility” are just a few words that her fifth grade teacher used to describe Micaela Grogan. Now that’s a terrific sentence. “Micaela is a hard working student, she is determined to do her best and often goes above and beyond by completing extra credit assignments. Her peers view her as leader who is always willing to help and to be a friend. Micaela participates in Girl Scouts and has offered her time to visit the elderly, writes letters to patients and collects food for local food banks. Micaela loves music, she studies piano, flute and voice. In her spare time she enjoys listening to music and singing along with her favorite songs. Our Polk school community is very proud of Micaela’s accomplishments and congratulates her on this very special recognition.” Micaela, congratulations.
Applause
Dr Erardi: Rebecca Karabus. Rebecca if you could come forward please.
Rebecca if you could let us know who is here with you.
Rebecca Karabus: My mom, my dad, my grandma and my aunt.
Dr. Erardi: If Mom, Dad, Grandma and Aunt could raise their hands and stand that would be great. Thank you. Rebecca is a fourth grade student at Polk School. Rebecca exemplifies excellence. She is extremely self motivated and consistently goes above and beyond in all areas of school learning. Mrs. Roxby, her fourth grader teacher, states that Rebecca is one of the most incredible student she has ever had. Her friends describe her a intelligent, cooperative and friendly and one that is always willing to lend a helping hand. Rebecca is active in theater and plays the piano and violin. She loves to write and her stories are filled with awesome elaboration, and events. Our Polk School community is very proud of Rebecca’s accomplishments and congratulates her on this very special recognition evening. Rebecca congratulations.
Applause
Dr Erardi: We would like the Polk School Parent Leadership to join our two student leaders.
Polk School
Kace Duplissie, Co-President
Deborah Ciochetti, Co-President
Cheryl Gentil, Treasurer
Melissa Navarra, Secretary
Tracey Graham, Vice President
PTA members came forward and received certificates
Dr. Erardi: Congratulations and thank you to our outstanding students and our outstanding parents.
Applause
Dr. Erardi: Our Swift Middle School Outstanding Students were previously recognized at a winter Board of Education Meeting. I would like Ms. Lerz to join Ms. Dzioba to recognize the outstanding parents at Swift Middle School.
A special thank you to the Swift parents who work so hard to make sure that our building project was able to go forward this past November and were so instrumental in support. Thank you and congratulations for all of your hard work, all that you have done.
Swift Middle School
Lori Birtwistle, Co-President
Noreen Prince, Co-President
Gianfranca Focareta, Vice President
Joann Barthelmess, Treasurer
Joan DeRosa, Secretary
PTA members came forward and received certificates
Dr. Erardi: Congratulations and thank you to our Swift parents.
Applause
b. The Board of Education wishes to recognize the Student Council Representative to the Board for school year 2005-2006:
Matthew Dzioba
Dr. Erardi: If the High School administration could join Ms. Dzioba at this point please, Mr. Hasbrouck, Mr. Geary. The Board of Education would like to start off my recognizing and thanking Matthew Dzioba. In the early part of this school year, Matthew met with his high school principal, Mr. Hasbrouck, with me and we challenged Matthew. We challenged him to go beyond a reporting agent for social activities and sporting events and to carry the belief and the weight of the student body. I have been around Boards of Education for a number of years and I have never ever seen a student with the passion that Matthew has brought to this board. I believe that Matthew is an integral part of the Board and that his presence is a strong presence representing nearly one thousand students. Matthew as a token of our appreciation, the administration and the Board of Education, would like to present to you and alarm clock to keep you on time next year as you head off to college.
Laughter and Applause
Dr. Erardi: Matt if you would stay standing here, far right.
d. The Board of Education wishes to recognize the following students for
being the top ten scholars at Watertown High School, Class of 2006:
1.) Amelia Luciano – Valedictorian
2.) Alexsandr Sklyar – Salutatorian
3.) Kristina Ciarlo
4.) James Alex
5.) Caitlin Harkins
6.) Theresa Atallah
7.) Monica Rinaldi
8.) Jessica Pepin
9.) Anuja Oak
10.) Jeffrey Zaremski
Dr. Erardi: The last set of awards were done with purpose for our young student honorees. I am hoping that when you hear the names of the ten scholars of Watertown High Schools Class of 2006, that will graduate in beautiful sunny weather next Wednesday evening, that you remember this moment, because these are folks that may have sat in the same chair that you are sitting in tonight and they had that same work rate of excellence and commitment. Their reward this evening and their parents reward is that their hard work was just a bit harder than most if not all others in their class. To our community members that are here this evening these ten scholars are ten students that we are extremely proud of. The eleven students that will stand in front of you are the class leaders of the Class of 2006. I’d like to share the top ten students with you, if you’d hold your applause, if students you’d come forward, receive your certificate, and have the opportunity to acknowledge your High School administration and then stay standing.
The first eight students are done in alphabetical order, not in sequence of rank. Congratulations to our top ten scholars. Starting with James Alex, James are you here? Thank You. James’s folks, mother is Kathleen, father is Robert. James, congratulations.
Theresa Atallah, Theresa’s mom is Helen and her dad is Nabile. If they’d raise their hand please.
James are your folks here? Ok, if you’d stay standing with Matthew.
Kristina Ciarlo, Kristina if your parents are here if not, we’d like to recognize them either way, mother is Leslie, and father is Alfredo. If they are here if they could raise their hand.
Caitlin Harkins, Caitlin’s mom is Anne, her dad is Peter, folks are you here?
Anuja Oak, Anuja, mother is Monisey and dad is Sudere, folks are you here?
You are seeing a casual top ten scholar look as they are celebrating the signing of their year books this evening in the courtyard and probably can’t wait to get out of here.
Laughter
Dr. Erardi: Jessica Pepin, Jessica’s mom is Lynn and her dad is Keith, folks are you here? Thank you, can you raise your hands high so we can find you on the camera.
Monica Rinaldi, Monica’s mother if Bridgett and her father is Frank, if they’re here please raise your hands so we can find you.
Jeffrey Zaremski, Jeffrey’s mother is Mary Beth and dad is Gary, folks are you here? Nice and, thank you.
Please stay standing.
Our last two students will have the opportunity to speak at commencement next Wednesday. Starting with Class Salutatorian, the second highest academic achieving student in the Class of 2006 Alexsandr Sklyar, Congratulations.
Applause
Dr. Erardi: Alexsandr’s mother is named Guilina and his dad is Victor, folks are you here?
Alexsandr Sklyar: No they couldn’t make it.
Dr. Erardi: Thank you Alexsandr. And the Class Valedictorian, Amelia Luciano. Amelia congratulations.
Applause
Dr. Erardi: Amelia’s mother is Sally, her father is Sal, folks are you here? Thank you, congratulations to you. We’d like the students to stay standing please. We’d like our students to be joined by the hard working high school PTA that emerged in a big way this year to support a number of activities at Watertown High School.
If I can find the list we will be ok.
Dr Erardi looks for list of names
Dr Erardi: We are recognizing three parents this evening.
Watertown High School
Robin Innaimo, President
Diane Chere, Treasurer
Charlotte Morro, Liaison to District PTO Group
Applause
Dr Erardi: A congratulations to our parent leaders and a special thank you to our academic scholars, and our student leaders and certainly the class of the Class of 2006, the eleven students who really have made a difference to Watertown High School. Congratulations and thank you to all.
Applause
Dr Erardi: Can we have one last call for Nicholas Mondak, is Nicholas here?
No answer
This concludes our Celebration of Excellence, there are refreshments to my far left, please help yourself, the Board will take a five minutes break at this time.
Meeting suspended at 7:56 p.m.
Meeting reconvened at 8:06 p.m.
D. Action Item
Consideration of Approval of Ms. Joanne Pannone to Fill Vacant Position
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve of Ms. Joanne Pannone to fill the vacant position left from the resignation of Ms. Maureen Caine.
A representative from the Town Clerk’s office is present this evening for the swearing in of Ms. Pannone.
Motion presented by Mr. Griffin, seconded by Ms. Colangelo to approve of Ms. Joanne Pannone to fill the vacant position left from the resignation of Ms. Maureen Caine.
Motion Passed Unanimously
(7-In Favor, 0-Opposed, 0-Abstained)
Applause
Ms. Pannone is sworn in by Ginny Russo
Ginny Russo: Do you solemnly swear that you will uphold the position as a member of the Board of Education to the best of your ability, so help you God?
Ms. Pannone: I do
Applause
Ms. Dzioba: Welcome Back
Ms. Pannone: Thank you
Ms. Pannone takes a seat at the table with the other Board of Education Members
E. Public Participation
Ms. Marcia Moriaty, 41 Pine Street, Watertown, CT
On behalf of the eleven Watertown High School student who made the trip to the Spanish exchange this spring, I want to thank the Board for sanctioning this really special opportunity for these children. Of course the students can say much more than I can can and much more eloquently so I am going to turn it over to the girls, who I was really very lucky to travel with this spring.
Jessica Peppin, 472 Mt Fair Drive
This is a big thank you to all of you for approving the trip, we had an amazing time. It was a great cultural experience and we learned far more than we ever could have in the classroom. Something especially important was going to an area that my college next year has a co-op program with, so I have an advantage over all the other kids that are going to have a study abroad program because I will have seen where I am actually probably going to study Junior year. So thank you, muchos gracias and have a good night.
Applause
Monica Rinaldi, 47 Cortland Street
I’d just like to thank everyone for approving this trip, it was a great experience, we learned so much from it. I personally will benefit from it because I will be studying abroad. I feel that living with a family that has a different culture will make me so much more ready for this trip. Thank you so much, we really appreciate it.
Applause
Katherine Dumschott, 449 Mt. Fair Drive
Again, like everyone else said, thank you for letting us go on this trip, it was really awesome. Mostly I really liked the fact that we were able to see things that they tell us about or see pictures of in the classroom. To really experience things like the Casas Granica in Madrid was just amazing. It brought tears to my eyes just to be there and to experience the real thing rather then just read about it in a book. Thank you.
Applause
Heather Goldberg, 28 Caroline Circle
Again, I just want to say thank you, this trip was absolutely amazing. Possibly the best time of my life. It was just so wonderful to be able to make the friends that we made over there despite the language barrier. I know I still talk to them and there were even Canadian students that were staying with my family and a few of the other families so we got to know them too, so it was like two cultural experiences in one. I just want to say thank you again.
Applause
Ms. Dzioba: Thank you all for coming forward and sharing with us. Is there anyone else who would like to address the Board.
Nadine Savage, John Trumbull PTO President
The past several weeks at John Trumbull have been very very busy ones for us. We ran many old projects and several new projects met with success. Of course we completed our old stand-bys, Mother’s Day Sale, Father’s Day Sale, and lets not forget our star studded gala for staff appreciation. We had field day complete with T-shirts for the kids and the staff, a float in the parade, our last educational program Bubblemania. We held our last hurrah for second graders, elected our officers for next year but by far our two biggest accomplishments this past month were working with the staff on our play “101 Dalmatians” and our Family Fun Fest which took place yesterday, as you can see we all showed up with sunburns. “101 Dalmatians” was a wonderful musical play put on by the children at John Trumbull with much much support from the staff. The PTO supplied the program, helped with costumes, ticket sales, cast party, actor gifts and of course staffed the event, with the chaperones and the ushers. Our second new project and our biggest project of the entire school year was the Family Fun Fest which took place yesterday. It included rides, carnival games, face painting, clowns, talent show, prizes, a slice of pizza, a soda and ice cream, all for $5 a person. What a deal! It also included a visit by Smokey the Bear, the AMR Ambulance, Buckle up Bear and the CHIP Identify program that served over 160 children yesterday and by far they told us it was there biggest draw ever. They don’t get that type of participation when they normally run their program. And of course our biggest draw and money maker of the day was our infamous dunk tank. A big thank you goes out to all the good natured sports, that included our JTPS staff , Tony our crossing guard, Mrs. Sculley and Mrs. Meka and of course it was all led off by Dr. Erardi.
Applause
Ms. Savage: As our year draws to a close I’d like to take this time just to recap our past year of PTO activities, you get bits and spurts every month, so I thought I’d just recap the entire year for you. Let’s start with our subsidies, we purchased four park benches for the playground, a compressor, three rolling carts for the sciences department complete with microscopes and other science related materials, butterfly larvae for every classroom, and a contribution to the family literacy program. We funded the first $7 of each child’s’ field trip and provided them with two folders, a pencil case, pencils, glue stick and a subscription to weekly reader. We supply all the playground balls, toys, Frisbees and chalk to all three playgrounds. We also supplied enough bulbs for each child to plant one along the back of the school as part of an interdisciplinary program. Back to our educational programs, we had a visit from the Fidelco guide dogs, storyteller Tom Lee, a program by the American Theater of the Deaf, Rob Surrette the amazing hero artist and finished up with Bubblemania. We received two partial grants this year from the Connecticut Department of Tourism for two of our educational programs. The rest of our activities for the year included landscaping the flowerbeds in the front of the school, planting the butterfly gardens in the back, ice cream socials, helping with the busing the first few days of school, Halloween party, the giving tree, the book drive, fall and spring clothing sales, the book fair fund raiser, pasta sales, Celebrate the Arts program, deck the halls artwork, staff appreciation, duck races, school store, birthday book program, participation in the box top program, second grade celebration, field day, Family Fun Fest, the play, Octoberfest and the parade. I guess we’ve been pretty busy. Most often it is the leader of the group that gets all the credit for a job well done, I’m fortunate to work with a team of officers who have the resolve and strength of steel and the hearts and character of gold. It has been our working together as a team and with the support of our administration, teacher reps and staff that we have been able to accomplish so much, and I’d like to take this public opportunity to thank everybody at the JTPS PTO board and our staff and administration at the school. Thank you.
Applause
Diane Hubacz, Co-President, Judson Elementary
The Judson PTA has ended its school year by sponsoring and supporting many activities for our students. We conducted a plant sale for Mother’s Day and for Father’s Day we sold gift certificates for breakfast with Dad at Chubba’s, Jimmy’s or the Farmer Shop, we also had a spring clothing sale for Judson clothing. We helped subsidize the fourth and fifth graders field trip to Quassy and provided an ice cream day with Teddy’s Ice Truck for the third graders. We awarded two $500 scholarships to a former Judson student and a former Baldwin student. We sponsored fifth grade night, which was a huge success, each student received a T-shirt with the winning design created by Charles J. Nettles, a student in Mrs. Beliveau’s class and every fifth graders signature on the back. The students received pizza and popsicles and participated in assigned activities such as Weird Science, Bombardment, Deal or No Deal, and the very very popular American Idol with our fifth grade teachers doing an encore celebration. On the way out each student received a book to keep and read over the summer. The Judson’s PTA most important expenditure throughout the year is our enrichment program. This year we spent $10,000 bringing quality artists and subject matter the children wouldn’t otherwise experience within our schools curriculum. We are very proud of our ability to bring these experiences to our students. On that note we would like to thank Mrs. Barbara Boston fifth grade teacher who has chaired our enrichment committee for the past 25 years, she will be retiring this year and she will be greatly missed. If you can all keep a secret, to show our gratitude to Mrs. Boston for her many years of service to our PTA and our children, we will be presenting her with a Connecticut PTA Honorary Lifetime Membership Award at the Judson Awards Day on June 20th. She doesn’t know about it so please keep our secret. We’d like to thank all our parent volunteers at Judson, we couldn’t exist without their dedication, we thank the Judson teachers and staff who support us in everything we do. We’d also like to thank our Principal Mrs. Corvello who sits on our Executive Board and knows no bounds in her support in our PTA and our students. Finally we’d like to thank Dr. Erardi and all of you of the Board of Education for all you have done to advance our students’ needs, big and small, your dedication to the future education in Watertown means so much to us parents. Most of all we thank you for giving the parent groups a voice. The Parent Executive Committee, chaired by Dr. Erardi, the Board of Ed liaisons and our Board of Ed representatives have been able to accomplish more in one year than we have ever been able to do previously. Tomorrow is our last meeting of this school year, we will be electing officers for the next year, until then, have a great summer.
Applause
Ms. Duplissie: I’ll be reading for Heminway, Swift and Polk. I’ll do Swift first, the school was honored recently when Gov. Jodi Rell visited our school to address a group of seventh graders. These students from (inaudible) reading class wrote to the Governor as part of a research project entitled American Heroes. The Governor visited with the students for 45 minutes and shared her thoughts and feelings on what it takes to overcome obstacles in order to achiever your goals. Eighth graders Kristen Proe and Sean Grogan were recently honored as scholar leaders at the annual Connecticut Association of Schools banquet, this is a great honor and we are proud of these fine students. The PTSO awarded their annual scholarships to seniors, Kelsey Leech, Jessica Downey and Theresa Atallah. Seventh graders recently attended the culminating performance of project Poetry Live, the saw a series of dances set to music inspired by their own poetry. This was accompanied by an art show, which featured the work of our Swift students. The talent of our Swift students was also on display recently at our school wide concert featuring our Band, Strings and Chorus students. These same students also took a fieldtrip to Seven Angels Theater and saw a live performance to enrich their musical experience. The entire student body did travel to Holiday Hill for a school outing made possible with PTSO’s generous donation that was used to defray the cost of the buses. We are proud to say that the staff members of Holiday Hill commented that our Swift students were nicely dressed and very well behaved. We are immensely grateful to the Watertown High School for the use of their facilities for our concert and our graduation exercises. Due to the renovation/expansion project our building is unusable for these activities and these activities, along with orientation for incoming seventh graders in August will all be held at Watertown High. Finally the eighth grade dinner dance will be held this Friday, we are grateful to the PTSO members for their support and help organizing this annual event.
Heminway received their fund raising check for the first annual Naugatuck Duck Race and were fortunate to receive $240 for very little effort, all they had to do was sell tickets for $5 each and we received the whole 50% profit. This was the easiest fundraiser and it turned out to be a great family, fun filled event. We urge all schools to get involved next spring when the Naugatuck Chamber sponsors this event. Mr. West organized a great event for our sixth graders this past Friday, students participated in the first ever basketball jamboree. It was a fund raising effort where children donated $10 to play and with that money they received pizza, snacks and cold drinks. The money donated will go to purchase mosquito nets for impoverished areas in Africa where malaria is rampant among the population. We had 120 students participate, they not only played basketball games consecutively from 2 p.m. until 9 p.m. in the evening, but they held up well after spending the entire day at Lake Quassy, which was rescheduled from last Friday due to weather, they had a great time. New books are being delivered next week (inaudible) was able to greatly lower the cost per student by $5 for each child’s books bringing the students cost of just $5.50. This was deemed a successful effort in fund raising by both the parents and students. We’d also like to take this opportunity to thank all the parent volunteers, teachers, faculty and Mrs. Pond for her support this school year. A special thank you to Dr. Erardi for his guidance an support as well. As the school year comes to a close we are saying goodbye to Mrs. Pond as she retires and we wish her well.
We’d like to thank (inaudible), Noreen Prince, Angela (inaudible), Michelle Spagnioletti, and Marie Davino. The new officers will be Melissa Navara and Tracy Graham. That’s it for Heminway.
Polk had their fifth grade Boston trip this morning, and they came back at 5 o’clock, everything went well. The field day for all of Polk will be this Friday and we encourage the parents to come and help us. We gave two scholarships, one for Griffin South School was for Matthew Dzioba and for Judd it was Heather Nicole Thomas. The Polk school store did gave $350 to the student council to buy sports equipment for the school. The last thing is, the school will have a school wide pizza party on the last day of school. They’ll have pizza, soft drinks and an ice pop.
Report from Student Council Representative
Ms. Dzioba: The Student Council Representative Report was given earlier so that Matthew Dzioba could attend the book signing party. I would like to thank the High School and we look forward to working with Will Zeman, he will be an asset to the Board I am sure.
F. Budget Summary – (Information Only – No Action Required)
Ms. Dzioba: Budget Summary is in your Board Member packets for your information, if there are any questions you may contact the superintendent.
G. Committee Reports:
1. Advertising Committee, Todd Griffin, Chair
Mr. Griffin stated there was no report this evening
2. Athletics Committee, Chris Lafferty, Chair
Mr. Lafferty was absent, Mr. Mazzamaro gave report
Mr. Mazzamaro: Athletics committee met before the meeting this evening and we discussed the possibility of a lacrosse team at the High School. We are going to take that under advisement and take it up in the coming weeks.
3. Budget Committee, Todd Griffin, Chair
Mr. Griffin: There is no official report, I would just like to announce that I will be scheduling follow-up, closure meeting to the budget soon.
4. Curriculum & Instruction Committee, Gina Calabrese, Chair
Ms. Calabrese: The Curriculum & Instruction subcommittee met on the afternoon of Monday, June 5th at 3:30 p.m. in the Watertown High School library. Ms. Janet Bloemker discussed her revisions to the Watertown High School Family and Consumer Sciences Foods 1 Level 1 Curriculum, which were endorsed by the committee. Those revisions are being considered for approval by the full Board on this evening’s agenda. Procedural forms utilized by the high school curriculum committee were discussed by Ms. Colleen Spieler and were reviewed by the committee. Mr. Matthew Geary, Vice Principle of Watertown High School and serves as the liaison for curricular initiatives, discussed several new initiatives developed in response to NEASC that have taken place during the 2005-2006 school year such as the new senior exit survey to be completed by each senior, which will provide the advisory committee with some direction from the point of view of students. The new best practice book initiated by Mr. Geary which will serve as a form for teachers to share their very best work with colleagues and the new independent study application which places a greater emphasis on student responsibility and accountability. This form is being considered for approval by the full board this evening under action items. Mr. Geary also indicated that workshops and release time devoted to the further development of essential questions and curriculum assessments will be provided to teachers. Essential questions are included in curriculum guides and are utilized in the delivery of differentiated instruction. Curriculum assessments are now formal documents included in the understanding by design model currently used for curriculum development in Watertown Schools. Mr. Geary also presented an advanced placement matrix containing an ERG comparison. The matrix illustrates the need for Watertown to develop more advanced placement courses for our high school students since we lag well behind the average number of AP courses provided by towns in our Economic Reference Group. We currently do not have an Advanced Placement US History course. Mr. Geary also spoke about three new programs he initiated to provide more support for freshman students. Cocoa and Cramming and Lemonade and Learning are opportunities for members of the Honor Society and Peer Advocates to help freshman prepare for midterm and final exams. Link Crew, introduced at our last Board meeting, a transition program designed to welcome freshmen and help them feel comfortable throughout their first year of high school. I would also like to call attention to the fact that there were three curricular items on this evening’s agenda being presented for a second reading. New or revised textbooks for the 2006-2007 school year, restructuring of the band program and the revision of tests used to determine Talented and Gifted student eligibility, these three items are being considered for approval by the full board under action items.
5. Facilities Committee, Rich Mazzamaro, Chair
Mr. Mazzamaro stated there was no report this evening
6. Policy and Labor Committee, Mary Dzioba, Acting Chair
Ms. Dzioba: There was a policy and labor committee in which we discussed the Health Wellness Policy, which is on the agenda tonight as a first read.
7. Cablevision, James Marks
Mr. Marks: There was a cable advisory board meeting last Thursday in Litchfield. The main thing that came out of it was that the Cable Representative would get back to the Board at the September meeting, giving us hopefully definitive dates on when more HDTV programming would be available in the area and also in the interim if we could do anything to hasten the process. Evidently the reason that more programming isn’t available is that they have to negotiate with each individual station to convert or pick up their HD signals. We suggested that is maybe we could write some letters it might put a needle in some people and help the process, hopefully it will.
8. PBC Representative, Rich Mazzamaro
Mr. Mazzamaro stated there was no report this evening
9. Education Connection Representative, Mary Dzioba
Ms. Dzioba stated there was no report this evening
G. Communications – Secretary
Mr. Griffin stated there were no communications to report this evening
I. Minutes
1. Regular Board of Education Meeting – May 22, 2006
Motion Presented by Mr. Griffin seconded by Mr. Mazzamaro to accept the Regular Board of Education Meeting Minutes of May 22, 2006.
Motion Passed
(6-In Favor, 0-Opposed, 2-Abstained)
In Favor: Ms. Colangelo, Ms. Dzioba, Mr. Griffin, Ms. Calabrese, Mr. Lambert, and Mr. Mazzamaro
Abstained: Ms. Pannone and Mr. Marks
J. Superintendent's Recommendations and Report
Dr. Erardi: I’d just like to explain to our viewing audience and to the Board that the Heminway Park Celebration of Excellence will take place June 26th. Heminway Park PTA members and their administration are involved concurrently with their school concert.
There were no questions from Board Members on Items 1-3 for Dr. Erardi.
1. Appointments – (Information Only – No Action Required)
a. Ms. Leah Bellemare to the position of Social Studies teacher at Watertown High School effective for the 2006-2007 school year, being hired at Step 2, 1 year experience, BA Degree, at an annual contractual salary of $37,648.00.
b. Ms. Joan DeRosa to the position of Evergreen Team Leader at Swift Middle School effective for the 2006-2007 school year at a contractual salary of $1,710.00.
c. Ms. Bonnie Goulet to the position of Board Clerk, effective May 30, 2006, being hired at $14.00 per hour, (effective July 1, 2006 $14.50 per hour) for each Board of Education meeting.
d. Ms. Mary Jean Mangione to the position of Navy Team Leader at Swift Middle School effective for the 2006-2007 school year at a contractual salary of $1,710.00.
e. Mr. Robert VanDerzee to the position of long-term substitute Guidance Counselor at Watertown High School effective August 28, 2006 through December 3, 2006, being hired on Step 2 of the Watertown Education Association, with a Master’s Degree, for a salary of $39,930.00 prorated.
f. Ms. Lilyana Auster to the position of Math teacher at Watertown High School effective for the 2006-2007 school year, being hired at Step 7, 6 years of experience, Masters Degree, at a contractual annual salary of $49,627.00.
2. Transfers – (Information Only – No Action Required)
a. Ms. Palma Adams from the position of Special Education teacher at Swift Middle School to Special Education teacher at Judson School effective with the 2006-2007 school year.
b. Ms. Cheryl French from the position of Special Education teacher at Swift Middle School to Special Education teacher at Watertown High School effective with the 2006-2007 school year.
c. Ms. Sherri Marquardt from the position of .5 kindergarten teacher at John Trumbull Primary School to full-time grade 5 teacher at Judson School effective with the 2006-2007 school year.
d. Ms. Cynthia Murphy from the position of Special Education teacher at Judson School to Special Education teacher at Swift Middle School effective with the 2006-2007 school year.
e. Ms. Elizabeth Tracey from the position of ½ kindergarten and ½ day – Day Care Component Program at John Trumbull Primary School to grade 4 teacher at Polk School effective with the 2006-2007 school year.
3. Resignations – (Information Only – No Action Required)
a. Ms. Tricia Cote from the position of ½ day kindergarten and ½ day day-care teacher at John Trumbull Primary School, effective June 30, 2006 for personal reasons.
Dr. Erardi: Moving on to Item 4, as stated by Ms. Dzioba, who is the acting Labor & Policy Chair at this particular time. There was a lengthy discussion and consensus that is coming forward to the board with a first reading with our Wellness Policy. The policy is time sensitive, it needs to be in place by the start of next school year. Ideally approved by July 1st. If there are any questions or concerns between now and June 26th please let administration know.
Board Members did not have any questions regarding Item 4
4. Wellness Policy – First Reading
The Policy & Labor Committee reviewed the Wellness Policy at its meeting on May 25, 2006 and presents it to the Board tonight for the first reading.
Dr. Erardi: Mr. Hasbrouck is here this evening to present to the Board of Education the draft response to the New England Association of Schools and Colleges. I’d like to just share two thoughts quickly before Mr. Hasbrouck shares the report with you. First, I am very impressed with the work that has taken place at Watertown High School, the administration and the staff should get us to the point of preparation to respond back to NEASC. The second, I am very impressed and thankful for the work of this Board of Education. I am sure you have had a chance to read this draft and without the referendum moving forward on May 23rd, you would have a very different looking draft. Mr. Hasbrouck if you would.
Mr. Hasbrouck: Thank you Dr. Erardi, and I’d also like to echo your thanks to the work of the Board of Education because you are correct if the budget had not passed the first time through this report would indeed be very different and I am sure the response from the New England Association would also be very different. I would also be remiss not to begin by thanking the members of the Munson staff who are seated with you this evening. As five of the six items of which we were to respond in the special July 1 report were very directly related to funding issues. Their work in pulling together information and data and meaningfully sharing those kinds of things that help bring together the report that you have before you. I would also like to thank the staff and the students of Watertown High. The staff work extremely hard on a number of topics that you see before you in here, particularly in the sixth item that is being addressed. And also the students who embraced the need to change and were active members of the community in helping make things happen this past school year. Not only at the High School but in the community and I think that had a direct bearing in helping see the referendum go forward. This was truly their initiative and their efforts and they deserve heartfelt thanks, certainly from me and I hope from you.
Mr. Hasbrouck read the NEASC Special Project Report (See Attachment A)
Board Members did not have any questions regarding Item 5
5. NEASC Update
Administration will present to the Board an update on the NEASC report and timeline.
Dr. Erardi: Thank you Mr. Hasbrouck. Items 6 and 7 I will defer to Dr. Pelosi who will share with the Board of Education the initiatives regarding Curriculum and Instruction, and Tony Antonucci will share the Professional Development Plan that took place this week.
Dr. Pelosi gave a Power Point presentation outlining the Watertown School District’s Initiatives. (See Attachment B)
Board Members did not have any questions regarding Item 6
6. Overview of the Watertown School District’s Initiatives – Information Only
An overview of the Watertown School District’s Initiatives will be presented this evening by Dr. Pelosi. It will contain Strategies 2, 3 and 5 of our Strategic Plan, which include curricula, assessments, and data analyses. Funding sources include the Connecticut Center for School Change (CCSC) Grant.
Mr. Antonucci gave a Power Point presentation highlighting the Annual Report of the Teacher Evaluation/Professional Development Committee. (See Attachment C)
Board Members did not have any questions regarding Item 7
7. Superintendent’s Annual Report Relative to Professional Development/Teachers’ Evaluations
Annually, the Superintendent of Schools updates the Board of Education in the areas of teachers’ evaluations and professional development activities. Board Members have received a report under separate cover. Mr. Anthony J. Antonucci, Professional Development
Coordinator is present tonight to give the report and answer any questions.
Dr. Erardi: Dr. Pelosi and Mr. Antonucci, thank you very much. Before we leave these two items I’d like to the Board Members to flip back to Mr. Antonucci’s report on page 8. That page in itself probably represents dozens and dozens and dozens of additional hours, could have consumed up to 30% of the Assistant Superintendent’s entire work year, and how did that happen? By working weekends with administration and staff. This one particular act probably involved nearly every administrator with observation and every certified staff. Watertown High School, Watertown Public Schools will be recognized over time I am sure, as the model program on how to complete the HOUSSE plan.
I don’t want to leave the two presentations without sharing my thoughts in regards to leadership that you heard this evening. I don’t think there is a school district in Connecticut that offers the opportunity that we do through Curriculum and Instruction and Professional Development under Dr. Pelosi and Mr. Antonucci. I am very thankful for both of you and your staff.
I’d like to move on to Item 8. Thank you Board Members for your willingness to meet with administration in August. Mrs. Marciano is coordinating a date that we’ll have the opportunity for goal setting for the School Year 2006-2007.
Board Members did not have any questions regarding Item 8
8. Board of Education Retreat
The Superintendent will present information to the Board regarding a retreat for Board members.
Dr. Erardi deferred to Mr. LoFrese for Items 9 & 10
Mr. LoFrese: Good evening, as has been mentioned before at previous Board Meetings, as part of the Swift building project, the process that is involved, we have to go to the State for formal approval process on the different phases of the building. The last two phases that need approval are the technology program as well furniture and equipment. Before you at your spot tonight I provided some information on some of the proposed technology items that are going into the building. I also have a set of plans as well as a binder that has some photographs, cut sheets, typical classroom layouts that can be reviewed. After the meeting I would be happy to entertain any questions. Our meeting with the State is on Wednesday, June 28th, so we’re going to be looking for formal Board Approval for that at the next regular board meeting. If there are any questions I can answer them now, as I mentioned I am available after the board meeting tonight. (See Attachment D)
Board Members did not have any questions regarding Item 9 and 10
9. Swift Building Project / Furniture/Equipment Submittal – First Reading
The furniture/equipment submittal for the Swift building project is presented this evening for the first reading. Mr. Todd LoFrese is here tonight to answer any questions and provide information.
10. Swift Building Project / Technology Submittal – First Reading
The technology submittal for the Swift building project is presented this evening for the first reading. Mr. Todd LoFrese is here tonight to answer any questions and provide information.
Dr. Erardi: Thank you Mr. LoFrese, that concludes the Superintendent’s Report.
K. Report from the Chairman
Ms. Dzioba: The report from the Chairperson tonight won’t take much time. I’d just
like to welcome Bonnie to our Board and welcome back Joanne. After tonight’s meeting
I would like to say how lucky we are as a Board of Education and as a school system first
of all to have the voters come out in support of our budget this year, which is going to
make for a much easier time in rebuilding here next year. But also to just say with all
the recognitions that we gave out, having been a former PTO member (inaudible) I
appreciate everything that our PTOs and PTAs do, they really are a supplier of all the
enrichment programs that we can no longer provide as a Board. I know that they usually
have a handful of volunteers that bring everything together. I do just want to reiterate
that we really do appreciate your work, as well as we do the countless hours that the
administrators, Dr. Pelosi’s group and Mr. Antonucci’s and all of our staff, our teachers and everyone who contributes to these presentations. We are very very lucky to have such a dedicated staff, I just want them to know that the Board really does appreciate your work and your efforts. Both to our volunteers and our employees, Thank You.
L. Action Items – Adoption of Items to be Approved by Consent
a. Consideration of Approval of the Proposed New or Revised Textbooks for the 2006-2007 School Year – Second Reading
The Proposed New or Revised Textbooks for the 2006-2007 School Year was presented for the first reading to the Board of Education at its meeting on May 22, 2006. It is presented tonight for the second reading and for full Board approval.
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.
It is recommended that the Board approve of the attached Proposed New or Revised textbooks for the 2006-2007 School Year.
Motion presented by Ms. Calabrese, seconded by Mr. Griffin to approve of the
attached Proposed New or Revised textbooks for the 2006-2007 School Year. (See Attachment E.)
Motion Passed Unanimously
(8-In Favor, 0-Opposed, 0-Abstained)
b. Consideration of Approval of the Restructuring of the Band Program – Second Reading
The Restructuring of the Band Program was presented for the first reading to the Board of Education at its meeting on May 22, 2006. It is presented tonight for the second reading and for full Board approval.
At the Curriculum and Instruction Committee meeting of May 15, 2006, the Curriculum and Instruction Committee members endorsed the elimination of the Grade 5 Band for one year and to increase the Grades 6-12 band enrollment and programming. With only one band teacher, it is not possible to provide a complete program as designed in the curriculum. With the elimination of the Grade 5 Band, the goals for the 2006-2007 school year would be:
To increase the band enrollment at Hemingway Park School to 10-20%.
To increase the band enrollment at Swift Middle School to 20%.
To increase the band enrolment at Watertown High School to 20%.
To recruit beginner band students in Grades 6-12.
To offer extra performance opportunities that create a thriving band program, i.e. chamber groups, recitals, jazz band, competitions, and festivals.
The projected recommendation and desired result is that the elementary band teacher is restored in the 2007-2008 school year and the band program is reinstated from Grades 4-12.
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve of the elimination of the Grade 5 Band for one year only in order to assess the aforementioned goals, effective with the 2006-2007 school year.
Motion presented by Ms. Calabrese, seconded by Mr. Mazzamaro to approve of the elimination of the Grade 5 Band for one year only in order to assess the aforementioned goals, effective with the 2006-2007 school year.
Motion Passed
(7-In Favor, 1-Opposed, 0-Abstained)
In Favor: Ms. Calabrese, Ms. Colangelo, Ms. Dzioba, Mr. Lambert, Mr. Marks, Mr. Mazzamaro, and Ms. Pannone
Opposed: Mr. Griffin
a. Consideration of Approval of the Tests to Determine Talented and Gifted (TAG) Eligibility – Second Reading
The Tests to Determine Talented and Gifted (TAG) Eligibility was presented to the Board of Education for the first reading at its meeting on May 22, 2006. It is presented tonight for the second reading and for Board approval.
At the Curriculum and Instruction Committee meeting of May 15, 2006, the Curriculum and Instruction Committee members endorsed the revision to the tests to determine Talented and Gifted student eligibility. With the elimination of the Stanford Achievement Test, it has become necessary to revise the tests to determine TAG Eligibility. The proposal is to use the students that attained the Advanced Level 5 (Total Reading Scale Score) of the Connecticut Mastery Test in place of the top ten-percent of the Stanford Achievement Test. The Advanced Level 5 students are scoring above goal level, and this would be comparable to the top 10 percent of the Stanford Achievement Test. The Otis-Lennon is also utilized in Grades 4 and 7. For Grades 9-11, the top 10 ranking students are reported to the state.
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve of the Tests to Determine Talented and Gifted (TAG) Eligibility as attached.
Motion presented by Ms. Calabrese, seconded by Mr. Mazzamaro to approve of the Tests to Determine Talented and Gifted (TAG) Eligibility as attached. (See Attachment F.)
Motion Passed Unanimously
(8-In Favor, 0-Opposed, 0-Abstained)
d. Consideration of Approval of BEST Program
This year the Selection Committee met on Friday, May 19, 2006 to interview candidates interested in becoming cooperating/mentor teachers. The candidates chosen were:
Teresa Baldwin – Heminway Park School, Grade 6 Math Teacher
Christopher Russo – Heminway Park School, Grade 6 Social Studies Teacher
Stefanie Thompson – High School, Foreign Language Teacher
Kerry O’Toole – High School, Foreign Language Teacher
Matthew Saccoman – High School, Special Education Teacher
We would like to thank the members of the Selection Committee:
Marylu Lerz – BEST Interview Chairperson
Sally Rinaldi – BEST Facilitator
Jessica Cagno
Elisha Gesseck
Cheryl Kaiser
Motion presented by Ms. Calabrese, seconded by Mr. Griffin to accept the Best Program cooperating/mentor candidates as presented.
Motion Passed Unanimously
(8-In Favor, 0-Opposed, 0-Abstained)
e. Consideration of Approval of the Watertown High School Family and
Consumer Sciences Foods I, Level 1 Curriculum Revision
At the Curriculum and Instruction Committee meeting of June 5, 2006, the Curriculum and Instruction Committee members endorsed the Watertown High School Family and Consumer Sciences Foods I, Level 1 Curriculum revision. The highlighted areas in the provided curriculum show what will be eliminated in the high school curriculum and placed in the middle school curriculum. This will make the transition to the high school smoother.
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the Watertown High School Family and Consumer Sciences Foods I, Level I as presented under separate cover and with the elimination of the highlighted areas, effective with the 2006-2007 school year. (See Attachment G.)
Motion presented by Ms. Calabrese, seconded by Mr. Griffin to approve the Watertown
High School Family and Consumer Sciences Foods l, Level 1 presented under separate
cover and with the elimination of the highlighted areas, effective with the 2006-2007
school year.
Discussion:
Ms. Colangelo: Are there any costs involved with this?
Dr. Pelosi: No
Motion Passed Unanimously
(8-In Favor, 0-Opposed, 0-Abstained)
f. Consideration of Approval of the Watertown High School Independent Study Form
At the Curriculum and Instruction Committee meeting of June 5, 2006, the Curriculum and Instruction Committee members endorsed the Watertown High School Independent Study Program form. Students will be eligible to participate in the Independent Study Program if they have met the following criteria:
1. The student must have successfully completed all courses offered in the discipline strand.
2. The student must ask a faculty member to serve as the advisor for his/her independent study.
3. The student must complete the proposed Independent Study form in conjunction with his/her advisor.
4. The advisor along with the department chair will determine the level/weight of the course.
5. The student must turn in this form to (state person here) by (enter date here).
6. The student must present his/her proposal to the Watertown High School Independent Study Committee which will consist of one member from each department.
7. The Independent Study Committee must approve the project, including the proposed level/weight.
If the committee approves the proposal, .5 credits will be given for a one-semester proposal and 1 credit will be given for a two-semester project. Procedures for withdrawal will follow the school guidelines for courses offered for .5 credits and full credit. The faculty advisor will assign a grade for the independent study. The independent study will only count toward the yearly credit requirement if the independent study is done during the school day on campus and counted toward the student’s daily attendance.
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the Watertown High School Independent Study Program form as presented under separate cover, effective with the 2006-2007 school year. (See Attachment H.)
Motion presented by Ms. Calabrese, seconded by Mr. Griffin to approve the Watertown High School Independent Study Program form as presented under separate cover, effective with the 2006-2007 school year.
Discussion:
Ms. Pannone: How is the advisor chosen? Does the Department Head pick the advisor?
Dr. Pelosi: The student could express an advisor, with the approval of the Department Coordinator this can be realized.
Motion Passed Unanimously
(8-In Favor, 0-Opposed, 0-Abstained)
M. Future Agenda Items and Board Members’ Comments
Board Members had no Agenda Items or Comments
N. Public Participation
None
O. Executive Session/Litigation Matter
Motion presented by Mr. Mazzamaro, seconded by Mr. Griffin to enter into Executive Session with Dr. Erardi, Todd LoFrese, Charlie Beliveau, Attorney Franklin Pilicy, Fred Krug and all Board Members listed as present.
Motion Passed Unanimously
(8-In Favor, 0-Opposed, 0-Abstained)
Executive Session convened at 9:27 p.m.
Executive Session ended at 10:00 p.m.
P. Adjournment
Motion presented by Mr. Mazzamaro, seconded by Mr. Lambert to adjourn the Regular Board of Education Meeting of June12, 2006.
Motion Passed Unanimously
(8-In Favor, 0-Opposed, 0-Abstained)
Meeting adjourned at 10:00 p.m.
Respectfully Submitted by
Todd Griffin, Board Secretary
Bonnie Goulet, Board Clerk
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