The regular meeting of the South Kingstown School Committee was held on February 23, 2010 at the South Kingstown High School Cafeteria at 7:00 PM, following Executive Session at
6:00 PM.
MEMBERS PRESENT: Anthony Mega (Chair), Kevin Jackson (Assistant Chair),
Scott Mueller, and Elizabeth Morris.
MEMBERS ABSENT: Maureen Cotter, Richard Angeli, and Frederick Frostic.
ADMINISTRATORS PRESENT: Kristen Stringfellow, Superintendent.
Dr. Mega called the February 23, 2010 School Committee Meeting to order at 6:00 PM.
MSV (1) move to recess to Executive Session under Title 42, Ch. 46, Section 5 of the General Laws of Rhode Island for Collective Bargaining at 6:00 PM. Jackson, Morris (4-0-0).
MEMBERS PRESENT: Anthony Mega (Chair), Kevin Jackson (Assistant Chair),
Scott Mueller, Frederick Frostic, Elizabeth Morris, and Richard Angeli.
MEMBERS ABSENT: Maureen Cotter.
ADMINISTRATORS PRESENT: Kristen Stringfellow, Superintendent; Mary Kelley, Assistant Superintendent; and John Ritchotte, Director of Administrative Services.
Dr. Mega called the February 23, 2010 School Committee Meeting back to order at
7:10 PM. Dr. Mega advised that the Committee was returning from Executive Session where they made a motion and went into Executive Session for the purpose of Collective Bargaining approximately one hour ago. Dr. Mega reported that a motion was made in Executive Session to accept the Superintendent’s recommendation to send out 99 layoff notices to teachers within the district. The motion to accept the Superintendent’s recommendation was made by Kevin Jackson and seconded by Liz Morris (4-0-0; yes by Mueller, Mega, Jackson, and Morris). Dr. Mega commented that this is not a mere formality; we do this solemnly.
MSV (3) move to seal the February 23, 2010 Executive Session minutes. Jackson, Morris (6-0-0).
1) Meeting Calendar:
Dr. Stringfellow reviewed the meeting calendar.
a. School Committee Meeting – February 23, 2010, 7:00 PM, South Kingstown High
School Cafeteria.
b. SELAC Meeting – February 24, 2010, 7:00 PM, Administration Building.
c. School Committee Wellness Subcommittee Meeting – February 25, 2010, 4:00 PM,
Administration Building.
d. School Committee Meeting - March 9, 2010, 7:00 PM, South Kingstown High School
Cafeteria.
e. Joint Budget Session – Town Council & School Committee – March 10, 2010,
7:00 PM, Town Hall – Town Council Chambers.
f. SELAC Meeting – March 10, 2010, 7:00 PM, Administration Building.
g. School Committee Meeting – March 23, 2010, 7:00 PM, South Kingstown High
School Cafeteria.
h. School Committee Wellness Subcommittee Meeting – March 25, 2010, 4:00 PM,
Administration Building.
i. Public Budget Hearings – April 5 & April 6, 2010, 7:00 PM, Town Hall – Town
Council Chambers.
j. School Committee Meeting – April 13, 2010, 7:00 PM, South Kingstown High
School Cafeteria.
k. School Committee Wellness Subcommittee Meeting – April 22, 2010 – 4:00 PM,
Administration Building.
l. School Committee Meeting – April 27, 2010, 7:00 PM, South Kingstown High
School Cafeteria.
2) “Pay it Forward” Credit Recovery Program SKHS:
Dr. Stringfellow advised that Pay it Forward is a credit recovery program that the guidance department has designed for seniors in our high school who find themselves absent certain credits to graduate.
Rose Majeika explained that they have seniors at the high school who are in a credit deficiency situation. In addition, some of these students do not have the financial means to pay for these credit recovery programs. Over the years, they have seen that students take the credit recovery programs online as it is more convenient, and in some cases less expensive for a student than to go to summer school over the summer. She advised that over the last few years, they have become aware of the following: students need financial support, they do not have support at home to keep their credits up, and then the difficulties of adding on the time and effort of an online credit program. The Pay it Forward program addresses a couple of needs for these students: guidance would have a meeting with the student and parent to go over expectations for the class they need; and then for the students who are free and/or reduced lunch eligible, they would offer to supplement the cost of this online course after the parent and student have been able to provide as much financial support as they could. The student would also have to work with their school counselor who is on duty every Wednesday night from 2:30 PM to 6:30 PM. Parents could meet with the counselors, and students could have access to the computers and various resources. The students would be required to avail themselves two Wednesdays per month to someone at the high school to keep them on track. The Pay it Forward piece would be that students would volunteer two hours of their time either at the high school or community agency in the area. Ms. Majeika advised that Mr. Lynch has already offered to have students help with games; and Mr. Siravo has agreed to have students to help with the Matty Fund. The idea is to help students financially and offer support and help on Wednesday evenings. Ms. Majeika stated that to have them pay back the assistance they would volunteer for two hours at one of the agencies they would like to participate in.
Ms. Majeika further explained that at the initial meeting with the Superintendent,
John Ritchotte asked about students who may need one-to-one support but not financial support?
She explained that students would be able to participate on Wednesday evenings and do the volunteer work, but if they do not need the financial support, the rest of the program would benefit them as well.
Ms. Majeika also explained that the funding source for the program comes from funds received from the College Board for administering tests (AP, SAT, and PSAT) for use of the building.
Mr. Mueller commented that it sounds like a strong program that would provide for the need of students to get caught up; however, he asked who would decide who needs financial support and who would not. Ms. Majeika advised that free and reduced lunch students are the students they would provide financial support to.
MSV (4) move to accept and place on file the Superintendent’s Report. Angeli, Jackson, (6-0-0).
Bob Trager, parent, shared a couple of ideas for potential savings in the budget. He noted that after reviewing the In$ite website report from three years ago online, he noticed that South Kingstown is ranked number one in spending for therapists and psychologists. South Kingstown spends a significantly higher amount of money for therapists and psychologists than any other community in the state. He also shared that South Kingstown is number three in spending on teachers per student; and is near the bottom in spending on material and technology. Mr. Trager stated that he sees patterns of spending he does not agree with.
Mr. Trager addressed a comment made at the last meeting from a concerned citizen about the possibility of closing an elementary school. He stated that one of the reasons people state that it is a bad thing is because small schools foster better education. However, he found out that Peace Dale is one of the largest elementary schools in the state and does quite well.
Dr. Stringfellow advised that she is aware of the In$ite data. She stated that in some cases we have more special education students than other areas, yet in some cases we do not. There are some students who need the services of therapists and psychologists. In terms of small schools, she will highlight that in her PowerPoint presentation later in the evening.
Dr. Mega stated that he would be interested in looking at absolute numbers rather than comparison/relative numbers in regard to how South Kingstown ended up as number one. He stated that he would be interested in knowing the amount of money spent on therapists and psychologists.
Robert McCarthy commended the Guidance Department for all of the work they do, not only for seniors but for all students through their high school careers in South Kingstown. He noted the work they do with transition of students into 9th grade, applications for grants, and the RTI process.
Lauren Hedman, CCMS guidance counselor, shared that she has 300 students on her case load and the major part of her job is transition of students from 8th grade to 9th grade. She ensures that the students transition successfully and she also ensures that the NECAP testing is coordinated correctly.
Dr. Mega reviewed the Consent Agenda.
1) Approval of minutes meeting of: February 9, 2010
Executive Session Minutes of: February 9, 2010
2) Personnel Action(s) – Pulled from the Agenda
3) Bid Award(s) – Pulled from the Agenda
4) Invoice(s) – School Attorney(s)
5) Home Schooling Request(s)
MSV (5) move to accept the Consent Agenda. Jackson, Angeli (6-0-0).
1) Expenditure(s) over $10,000: Pulled from the Agenda.
2) Teacher Non-Renewals:
Dr. Stringfellow advised that unfortunately this year she finds herself sending 99 non-renewal letters to teachers. These letters are going to individuals who have served our district for a very long time, and who have never before been non-renewed. This grows from the uncertainty regarding the global fiscal crisis and unknown revenue streams. We have already faced a $1.2 million reduction in local support and at least a 5% reduction in state aid with potential additional cuts before July 1st. I will work as quickly as possible to bring more certainty to this discussion; but it is important for the teachers and the public to understand that right now neither I nor the School Committee knows exactly how bad the situation will end up being just this year. The notices reach every department in our school system and every school. I deeply regret the anxiety and uncertainty that our teachers will experience as they receive these letters. I ask for patience of the teachers as we grow to know the financial future and I am very much appreciative of the great work they do each and every day, as I am sure all of you are. Dr. Mega echoed his regrets for the anxiety this causes.
Dr. Mega advised that this was the first reading of the revised Access to Excellency Policy; however, it is the third opportunity for discussion at the School Committee table in regard to the policy. He advised that the Superintendent will highlight some of the changes and the revisions the committee has diligently been working on.
Dr. Stringfellow stated that the Access to Excellence Committee is pleased to present the Access to Excellence Chemical Health policy draft for the School Committee’s review and first reading. She provided an overview of the timeline in developing the Access to Excellence policy. Dr. Stringfellow also acknowledged the hard work and effort of the A2E committee: Richard Angeli; Kevin Cronin; Deborah Harig; Lt. Paul Horoho; Terry Lynch; Keith McNamar; Andy Nota; Eileen Stone; and Kristen Stringfellow. She also acknowledged Officer Monty who has been instrumental on the team.
Dr. Stringfellow advised that the draft reflects a drastic increase in the restorative justice components, recognizing that the intent of this policy is to change behavior in a positive manner. The cyber imaging portion, which has created some discomfort, has been eliminated. A separate section has been added for “in the presence of.” That has more restorative components because we recognize that being in the presence of is very different than illegally possessing, consuming, and distributing. We have specifically outlined the process of the investigation so it is transparent and clear. We have clearly outlined the appeals process. We have changed the restorative and corrective actions, taking into account School Committee and community feedback (we have changed the actual indicators). At this time, the policy remains just for student athletes and it is in force 365 days per year. We believe the adoption of this policy will help support the good choices that our students make each and every day and will prevent students from abusing and using substances. The policy is being presented as a first reading, the draft was posted on line last week for community comments. She noted that she has received two community members’ comments.
Dr. Mega stated that he appreciates the commitment the A2E committee has shown to
continue to work on an important policy and allow for further discussion at the School Committee table.
Mr. Frostic requested a side-by-side comparison of what the policy is now for the
actions with students and how this differs from the current policy.
Mr. Mueller referenced #C-5: since there will be an investigation, the policy and the investigatory process appear to be relatively silent about how judgments will be made about “in the presence of” and whether someone was aware or not. It seems to be a source of concern that we may implement aspects of the policy in a situation where someone was not aware there was liquor someplace. Mr. Mueller stated that he would like to see the premise inserted that before the policy is called into effect, a determination needs to be made about the youth’s awareness of having been “in the presence of.” Dr. Stringfellow advised that the A2E committee relied upon legal opinion, police officer investigation experience, and high school and assistant principal experience with investigations. She stated that the A2E committee is at the comfort level that the very first item would be a determination of awareness; and it would be part of the investigative process. Mr. Mueller stated that he would be more comfortable if it was written down.
Mr. Mueller asked whether the attorney would have a question.
Ms. Morris stated that when you look at the 365 policy, she has a concerned about students we lose on their 21st birthday. Dr. Stringfellow stated that they are capturing this group of students, but then it could lead to a discussion on how we can do this better.
Mr. Frostic stated that under C-5 “must leave the location immediately” he would take “immediately” out. He stated that we confuse a code of conduct, noting that the words “or risk” is a punishment, not a code of conduct. Mr. Frostic stated that the Committee needs to be careful about words.
Mr. Angeli stated that as the A2E committee continues to meet, there has not been a discussion that this is where the policy will end. He noted that this is a community-wide effort. It is a first step. It is the intention of the A2E committee over time to have a policy that impacts as many students as possible.
Mr. Jackson cautioned the Committee about the wording, stating that legal counsel should determine the exact wording, not the School Committee.
Mr. Mueller commented that athletes are leaders in the school, but they are not the only leaders. Mr. Mueller asked about the timeline for delivering a policy that would affect all students. Dr. Stringfellow advised that the A2E Committee would work within the timeline the School Committee gives them. Dr. Mega stated that he would think that the Committee should look at approving implementing this policy with the caveat that there would be continuous work.
Discussion continued about the policy affecting all students, not just athletes.
Dr. Mega summarized the School Committee discussion: requesting a timeline for a broader statement to apply to more than student athletes; be careful of limiting student leaders to just athletes; and not to defer the implementation of this policy, but to establish a timeline in which the discussion will continue in regard to the comments about a timeline for broadening the statement.
Mr. Mueller made an editorial comment about #D-3, 4th bullet, second line: be limited to only student athletes being interviewed. Mr. Mueller stated that he would assume that data will be collected from anyone who has knowledge, not identify that only student athletes be questioned.
Dr. Mega referred to the first bullet on page 4 “an abundance of circumstantial evidence with eyewitness support” seems subjective; therefore, he would like legal counsel.
Mr. Mueller stated that he would prefer to see restorative justice moved earlier in the
process, noting that when you look at restorative justice programs, they start as soon as there is an action that has created disorder. Dr. Mega stated that he endorses moving up the intervention earlier on in the process.
Ms. Morris referred to page 4, #1-B (last bullet) “the student athlete will be given the opportunity to apologize to his/her team” she asked if that would be a requirement.
Dr. Stringfellow stated that students would be given the opportunity to apologize. Ms. Morris expressed concern about the privacy issue, which Dr. Stringfellow stated she would look into.
Mr. Frostic referred to pages 5 & 6: sentencing guidelines, not mandatory sentencing. He stated that he would want guidelines as opposed to “this is the penalty.”
Mr. Mueller referred to the language of E-1 (last bullet on page 4): he stated that he interpreted that student athletes would be given the opportunity to apologize he assumed that it was one of the requirements. He questioned if it was a requirement or not, based on the earlier comments.
Mr. Jackson referred to the penalty statement, noting that they need to be careful about being too broad. Mr. Jackson also referred to page 5, under Second Offense “B” he noted that it says “ten days” however, it does not specify school days or calendar days.
Jim McClaron, parent, shared his knowledge of recent events wherein he read police reports, reviewed photographs taken by responding officers. He urged the Committee to adopt and implement the policy without undue time. It will give the school department a tool to make athletes abide by. He noted that we have outstanding athletes and it is a privilege to be an athlete in South Kingstown. What more evidence do we need to urge you to adopt a policy. Three parties in the last four weeks. It is up to me as a parent to discipline my child for poor choices; however, we also have to arm the school district and the athletic department with the sanction for the wrong choice. The students take a lot of time and energy to plan these parties. If you were to review the evidence by the officer, you would be amazed. Don’t delay adopting this policy.
Donald Waterous, teacher, stated that he agrees that the policy needs to encompass everyone, not just athletes. He noted that the district used to have social probation and he wondered where that policy is today. Mr. Waterous stated that his concern is that the policy only addresses some students and he also wondered if it is enough.
Dr. Stringfellow advised that social probation is in our current handbooks, which addresses students who are drinking at a dance, on school grounds, or in their possession at school; however, this policy addresses students drinking at a party at someone’s home. We currently do not have anything as a restorative or corrective measure to address it. This policy goes above and beyond the social probation in our regular handbook.
Carol Hagan McEntee, parent/Town Councilwoman/lawyer, stated that everyone
would agree that keeping our children safe is a common goal and to address the need of reducing underage alcohol and drug abuse. She expressed concern that if you are going to put the policy in place it should apply to everyone and it should be a policy that can address all groups and survive the test of time. She expressed concern about the first offense as it relates to consuming and possessing alcohol for the first offender. With her experience in the juvenile justice system, we always give the kid a second chance and earn their way back. Ms. McEntee suggested that probation, monitoring, counseling, or community service be the consequence for a first offense, as there has to be rehabilitative actions for students to prove themselves. She stated that we need to encourage kids to stay engaged in after-school activities, be productive citizens, and learn from mistakes; not wipe our hands of them. Ms. McEntee expressed concern about the 24 hours/day, 7 days/week, 365 days/year as it will lend itself to the abusive process; and it will pit kids against kids. She stated that the district had better have the correct information.
Mr. Duggan, parent/coach, asked that the Committee approve the policy as quickly as possible. He stated that the policy is a guideline and it is an opportunity for athletics to have common bond. He advised that many of the athletes are also involved in band or orchestra. Others are involved with drama, student government. Mr. Duggan stated that this policy is not just reactive, it is proactive in that it gives coaches the opportunity to teach players/student athletes to walk away from the situation.
Dr. Celeste Corcoran, South Kingstown Partnership for Prevention, expressed appreciation for the work of the Committee. She commented that she takes care of many children in our community ant she talks about this issue with adolescence She advised that there are many students using alcohol and drugs in our community (60%). Dr. Corcoran stated that we need to change the culture in our community as in Barrington. I think that this is a dynamic process, intended for all children in our community. I survey every kid that comes into my practice after 12 years of age and she gets a lot of information. She is astounded at how much they drink and smoke pot. We need to change the culture. They need to learn how to have fun without taking drugs and alcohol. It is a consequence that they will have to live with their whole life. This gives the parent the support from the athletic directors. The process in place in South Kingstown High School does not address 365 days. We need to protect our kids 365 days. Children have immature brains until age 25.
Kate M, parent, stated that the culture has to change everywhere. She noted that athletes are targeted because they are the ones who have the culture with alcohol focused around it, as all the alcohol advertisements focus on sports. Kate stated that you have to have parent buy-in and parents need to be the role model for kids. Adults in the community need to be role models for the athletes and they in turn can be role models for others.
Mr. Angeli thanked the A2E committee for the work they have done. He stated that the primary component the A2E Committee has tried to do is to create a policy that will change behavior. The way the policy is written will change behavior, as athletes are concerned about playing. Mr. Angeli stated that you change behavior by preventing the first offense, and if we have a policy in place that tells them that if they mess up they won’t be able to play, it will change behaviors.
Dr. Mega encouraged the audience to speak to other members of the community and to keep engaging community members in the discussion. We are part of a solution, we will need all members of the community to be engaged in this process and to change what people have identified as a culture of potential danger for the young people in South Kingstown. He thanked the A2E Committee for their hard work; and stating that the School Committee will continue discussion at the School Committee table.
3) BRMS Re-Organization:
Dr. Stringfellow provided a brief overview of the information she shared through the
PowerPoint Presentation at the February 9, 2010 School Committee meeting which included information about the Current Configuration; January 2010 Enrollments; Reasons to Consider a 5-6 Instructional Model; Implications for Elementary Schools; Projected Enrollments; Transportation; Graduated Transition Steps; Budget Neutral Explanation; Savings, and the Proposed Timeline. She advised that since the last Committee meeting she has met with the 5th grade teachers. Dr. Stringfellow also revised the proposed time line as: 2/9/10 – Discuss concept; 2/12/10 – Meeting with 5th grade teachers; 2/23/10 – Public Comments – 2/25/10 – Community forum and tour; 3/4/10 – Additional Community forum; and 3/9/10 – School Committee vote.
Dr. Stringfellow also shared information via PowerPoint about the data collected to date with the School Committee. She noted that data will continue to be collected at the community forums. The information shared included: Input from Grade 5 Teacher Meeting on 2-12-10 – Pros and Cons; Questions (her responses were reflected); Questions Raised in the Media (her responses were reflected); Middle School Sizes in RI (Examples from INFOWORKS); Coming Soon.
Susanne Keating, parent, stated that we are happy at Wakefield Elementary, her children
are receiving a wonderful education there, and that the community there is very valuable. She asked how vulnerable Wakefield Elementary is. Dr. Stringfellow advised that we have not had a discussion at this table at all. Ms. Keating asked what the Committee’s thoughts are about school consolidation.
Dr. Mega advised that the history of consolidation has been driven by demographics and budget. He noted that no one looks toward closing schools as the first option to meet either objective. Dr. Mega advised that the movement to Broad Rock Middle School is not intended to be a prelude to the closing of Wakefield Elementary. The discussion about Broad Rock Middle School is to make it a better school and to make the educational experience for the 5th graders a better educational experience.
Ms. Keating stated that she does not see the reorganization as beneficial for her child,
noting that she has not heard a lot about academics.
Rae, parent, stated that it feels like we are being reactive rather than proactive. She asked
who do you think is affected by this; the children. She added that every year we are doing something that is reactive to the budget. She asked if this is truly in the best interest of our children.
Bob Trager, parent, commented that kids are resilient. He stated that he understands that people have anxiety. Mr. Trager asked why it was decided to break up the grades as suggested: 5th/6th graders at Broad Rock and 7th/8th graders at Curtis Corner. Dr. Mega advised that there was discussion about what would be the best middle school for the 7th/8th graders last year and ultimately the Superintendent recommended the 7th/8th graders be at Curtis Corner. Regarding the long-range planning, Dr. Mega stated that he does not think that you always have absolute foresight about how restructuring would work; that is why we embarked on a facilities audit.
Dr. Mega did agree that it is best for the students in the district to have long-range planning.
Mr. Trager stated that if he were a Wakefield parent, the discussion should be brought up now if it is in the back of the minds of the School Committee members.
Cheryl Foster, parent, cautioned the Committee to watch out for the logic. It has been stated that more small space is needed to implement RTI and she assumes the needs will not decrease. The need for the small spaces across four elementary schools will not change unless you build out in one of the existing elementary schools. Ms. Foster stated that it was alleged in public that parents supported the move of 5th graders to BRMS? She asked how the data was collected. Dr. Stringfellow stated that people were supportive at the PTO coffee hour. Ms. Foster stated that you need to be careful about misleading talk about data, as it should be stated that input was received from public forums. Ms. Foster advised that there may be ways to get data in a more representative way; and we need to be careful the way we represent levels of support we gather and how it is gathered.
John Biafore, parent, stated that what is being done may be misconstrued by the public who are fearful that this is the first step in closing a school. He stated that perhaps more options could be brought out regarding budgetary constraints. Mr. Biafore stated that his concern about moving 5th graders to Broad Rock Middle School is about transportation. He said that a decision should not be made until there is a full proposal from the bus company regarding start time, cost, and how it will impact each school.
Pat Wholey, parent, stated that his concern is that the presentation today reflects that the reconfiguration is based on improving the education of 5th graders and space concerns; and it would be a contradiction if they were to go down the road of closing a school. Dr. Stringfellow stated that the closing of South Road was based on budgetary issues; however, this reconfiguration is academic. She advised that one year from now, as long as enrollment does not continue to greatly decline, we will need those small spaces.
Mr. Wholey stated that when going through the budget process, it would be helpful to show the community various options. He stated that he is of the opinion that there are always more options than the options that are out there. He stated that it would be helpful to see things details broken down.
Mr. Mueller spoke about the options and process in approaching budget cuts, the uncertainty of the financial future, difficulty with long-range planning. He stated that he has never been more concerned about the quality of public education in South Kingstown. Mr. Mueller stated that he appreciated the concerns being raised; noting that it is the School Committee’s job to listen to the concerns.
Jonathan Daly-Labelle, parent, asked if there would be recess for 5th graders.
Dr. Stringfellow advised that it has not been determined yet.
Mr. Daly-Labelle stated that it sends a chilling message when there are no questions from the School Committee to the Superintendent that would then give the community more information to our leader’s thinking. He asked when the community will get to know what the Committee’s thoughts are about this. He stated that a lot of detail goes into the A2E, which is important; however, he does not understand the discussion of restructuring our schools being done in one month. Mr. Daly-Labelle stated that it would bother him to see Wakefield Elementary stop servicing our community, which has a long history in the community.
Dr. Stringfellow advertised that the Committee could not discuss closing a school because it was not advertised as such.
Dr. Mega stated that he knows people linked closing Wakefield with the move to Broad Rock Middle School; however, the addressing of consolidating schools is not going to be determined by how the budgetary future unfolds.
Mr. Mueller stated that he sees the release of the NESDEC as where the Committee would have the conversation about how buildings are used.
Mr. Daly-Labelle stated that he would feel better if he saw more participation by School Committee members due to the March 9, 2010 decision timeline. Dr. Stringfellow stated that she put the March 9, 2010 date as a framework; however, the School Committee can say that they do not want to consider the reconfiguration until after March 9th. Dr. Mega noted that two community forums are scheduled and encouraged Mr. Daly-Labelle to let the Committee listen first.
Dr. Mega, Mr. Jackson, and Mr. Angeli shared their thoughts as parents of elementary school students regarding decisions made to close South Road and the reconfiguration of Broad Rock Middle School. They noted that they do not make these decisions lightly and they understand the angst parents have.
Mr. Waterous, teacher, stated that he does not see his 5th grade program enhanced with a move to the middle school. The facility is beautiful at Broad Rock; however, it will not change the quality of education. He stated that if Wakefield closes, the Committee needs to think about the benefit of the small rooms will be gone. Mr. Waterous also stated that a two-year community in the school is valuable; however, do not assume that it is about education.
Eileen Daly-Labelle, parent, stated that it is disconcerting to hear about preparing for the loss of more and more dollars. She believes that the School Committee and Town Council need to advocate for South Kingstown. Ms. Daly-Labelle stated that she believes that recess is a huge component and would be concerned if it was not available. She shared data from NAEYC about the benefits of physical activity. Ms. Daly-Labelle asked how many 5th grade teachers we have now and how many we will need at Broad Rock Middle School. Dr. Stringfellow stated that she will need to look at the data and get back to Ms. Daly-Labelle. Ms. Daly-Labelle stated that when the 6th graders moved, she did not realize that they are getting science only half the time.
Dr. Stringfellow stated that she believes that it was a budgetary decision.
4) 2010-2011 Budget:
Dr. Mega stated that this will be a more active item next time as the Committee receives
new estimates; and it will be a more active discussion in preparation for the meeting with the Town Council in mid-March. Dr. Mega noted that the Joint Budget Session with the Town Council on March 10, 2010 at 7:00 PM.
Mr. Ritchotte shared that he saw on the news that Rep. Constantino advised that there is a growing concern on the deficit within the state and not to rule out additional cuts in May.
5) Bullying Policy:
Dr. Stringfellow respectfully requested that the Committee entertain the notion that this item be tabled due to the fact that the administrator she asked to speak on the item is not in the audience. The Committee agreed.
A parent shared information about a bullying situation that her daughter was involved in. She stated that whatever the district is doing is not working.
Mr. Mueller stated that he appreciates keeping this on the agenda as we need to have an in-depth conversation. He noted that the A2E Committee has opened new territory about bullying. Mr. Mueller advised national data states that 25-30% of children have a significant bullying experience. He stated that he looks forward to the opportunity to take a look at this. This is something that has a tremendous impact on the quality of life of our children.
Mr. Jackson stated that he would like to look at the cyber-side of this, due to what he saw recently regarding text messaging, Facebook, and Twitter, which was appalling.
Dr. Mega advised that the CARES Spelling Bee is scheduled for Saturday, February 27, 2010, 6:00 PM at the Elks. He invited members to join him in participating.
MSV (6) move to adjourn at 10:43 PM. Frostic, Jackson (6-0-0).
Respectfully submitted,
Kristen E. Stringfellow, Clerk
South Kingstown School Committee
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