2013-11-13BEVERLY PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Regular Meeting
Wednesday, November 13, 2013
Beverly City Hall
Beverly, Massachusetts
A regular meeting of the Beverly School Committee was held on Wednesday, November 13, 2013 in
Council Chambers at City Hall, Beverly, MA.
Members Present: Mayor Scanlon, David Manzi, Matthew Kavanagh, Paul Manzo, Maria Decker,
Kris Silverstein and Annemarie Cesa
Also in Attendance: Dr. Albert F. Argenziano, Interim Superintendent of Schools, Phyllis Dubina,
Curriculum Consultant (PK -5), Director of Finance & Operations Jean Sherburne,
Administrative Assistant to the School Committee Donna Bergeron, Secondary
School Principals, Matthew Poska and Sean Gallagher, Elementary School
Principals, Sue Charochak, Karla Pressman, Susan Snyder, Erin Brown
Call to Order: Ms. Decker called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
Pledge of Allegiance: Ms. Cesa led those assembled in the Pledge of Allegiance.
AGENDA
Recognition of Students, Employees and Community Members
• Maria Decker, School Committee President and Beverly High School Principal, Sean Gallagher recognized
Sydney Maciak for achieving a perfect score on her Grade 10 Math MCAS exam.
• School Committee President, Maria Decker and Briscoe Middle School Principal Matthew Poska
recognized the following students for achieving perfect scores on the 2013 MCAS exam:
Eleanore Brown / Gr. 6 ELA Eric Jennings / Gr. 7 Math
Ryan Daly / Gr. 7 Math Jocelyn Lee / Gr. 7 Math
Connor Cademartori / Gr. 7 Math Tim Johnson / Gr. 8 Math
Oliver Gibson / Gr. 7 Math Christian Short / Gr. 8 ELA
• School Committee President Maria Decker with the assistance of Elementary Principals Sue Charochak,
Karla Pressman, Susan Snyder and Erin Brown recognized the following students for achieving
perfect scores on their 2013 MCAS exam.
Avers Centerville
Robert Lyons / Gr. 3 ELA & Math Rebecca Lovasco / Gr. 3 ELA
Lily Kumar / Gr. 3 ELA North Beverly
Nicholas Fox / Gr. 3 Math Caroline DuFresne / Gr. 3 ELA
Hannah McCarthy / Gr. 3 Math Madison Saunders / Gr. 3 ELA & Math
Naisha Tatis / Gr. 5 Math Caroline Plozay / Gr. 3 Math
Hannah Maya Cormier / Gr. 4 Math
Sarah Hall / Gr. 4 Math Callie Marticio / Gr. 4 Math
Kaitlin Kennedy / Gr. 5 Math Shayla Barker / Gr. 5 ELA
Open Forum for Citizen Input into Non - Agenda - Related Items
None
Open Forum for Citizen Concerns or Citizen Input into Agenda - Related Items
None
Approval of Meeting Records
A motion was made by Ms. Cesa to approve the minutes from the October 9, 2013 School Committee
meeting. The motion was seconded by Mr. Manzi and approved by a vote of 7:0 with one correction.
Report from Student Representative to the School Committee
Austin Healey, Student Representative to the School Committee reported the following: second quarter
has begun and report cards were distributed yesterday. There will be a two hour delay Thursday for
"Parent's Morning Back ". The National Honor Society sponsored a blood drive on Tuesday, and North
Shore Community College held an on- the - spot- admissions event for seniors. Austin said that the John
and Abigail Adams Breakfast will be held on November 22. The freshman class is gearing up for their
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November 13, 2013
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annual spirit week and the junior class is hosting a "Hand's on the Bus" fundraiser. The cost is $10 with
50 percent of the proceeds going to needy families through Beverly Bootstraps. Austin also reported
that the Key Club is hosting "Project Smile" a fundraiser collecting stuffed animals for children who have
experienced traumatic incidents. The Class of 2015 is selling class apparel. Orders for yearbooks are
being taken and the cost is $55. Any parent who would like to place a message in the yearbook the
deadline is this Friday, November 15 th .
Communications from Committee Members
All members reported communications regarding the Superintendent Search.
Mr. Manzi reported communication regarding an Ayers Ryal Side fundraiser.
Mr. Kavanagh reported hearing concerns about the 8 th grade move -up night from parents wanting to know
if the students could attend as well.
Ms. Silverstein congratulated BMPAA group for the money, over $7000, raised at the electronics recycling
event. Ms. Silverstein stated that she attended the YMCA after school event at Ayers showcasing
STEM projects remarking how impressed she was with the work the Y is doing with these students.
She reported attending the MASC conference with Mr. Manzo and stated she is also working with
Councilor James Latter, Ward 3 on "Supporting Parents with Student Success ".
Mr. Manzo reported hearing from parents, after the Danvers tragedy, regarding student safety. He also
reported concerns regarding foreign language at the high school requesting students be offered a
minimum of three years of a foreign language. Mr. Manzo also had a communication about dual
enrollment and if going forward there would be other college offerings.
Ms. Cesa received communications regarding dual enrollment also.
Ms. Decker read an email she received from Ted Delano, a Swampscott School Committee member who
wrote that he was very impressed with the Beverly students, who at a recent Swampscott / Beverly
football game held a moment of silence honoring the Danvers teacher that was murdered. He also
complimented band members as well. Ms. Decker stated she attended Briscoe Middle School's
Veteran's Day program which included the high school's ROTC color guard.
Report from Interim Superintendent Argenziano
1. Grants Acceptance 2013 -2014
Dr. Argenziano presented the 2013 -2014 Grant Awards to the Beverly Public Schools for approval by
the School Committee noting that the amount, a little under $2.5 million, is a little more than last year.
A motion was made by Mr. Manzo to approve the 2013 -2014 Grant Awards to the Beverly Public
Schools. The motion was seconded by Mr. Manzi and approved by a vote of 7:0.
2. Dr. Argenziano reported that a summary of the Global Child program held in our elementary schools
this fall was included in the packets. Dr. Argenziano extended his appreciation to Ann Gavin the
coordinator of the program.
3. Dr. Argenziano provided a review of the Superintendent of Schools search to date reporting that
interviews of the four candidates are ongoing with a wrap -up day Friday, November 15 th at 4:00 in the
Beverly High School Library open to the public. After the meeting on Friday site visit(s) will take place
next week Dr. Argenziano said School Committee members should feel free to contact Attorney Naomi
Stonberg as she is very familiar with some of these candidates.
Dr. Argenziano stated he should be bringing forward the new Superintendent of Schools at the
December 4, 2013 School Committee Meeting.
4. Dr. Argenziano spoke to the committee about the Ayers Ryal Side Elementary School, which has
achieved Level 1 status and commended and honored Sue Charochak, Principal for the knowledge,
energy and hard work that she and her staff have put into obtaining this status.
5. Dr. Argenziano reported that he has had all of our principals do a cameo at Bev Cam and in the next
few weeks Bev Cam will go to each school and follow the principal around showcasing their school.
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6. Dr. Argenziano stated that on Monday, November 25 we will participate in the traditional "Bridging the
Gap" on the Beverly /Salem Bridge with members of both Beverly and Salem's football teams, and high
schools administration. On Tuesday there will be a luncheon at the Hawthorne Hotel and the
Thanksgiving Day Football game will be in held in Salem this year at their newly renovated field.
Report from School Committee President Maria Decker
1. Ms. Decker requested approval of Daniel J. Blake, Beverly's new representative to the North Shore Regional
Vocational Committee. Ms. Decker stated that he would move into this position on December 1, 2013.
A motion was made by Mr. Manzo to approve Daniel J. Blake as Beverly's Representative to the North Shore
Regional Vocational Committee. The motion was seconded by Mr. Manzi and approved by a vote of 7:0.
2. Ms. Decker stated that a draft of the School Committee Spring 2014 Meeting Schedule has been included and
asked Committee members for input and approval. Mr. Manzi requested that the January Policy Sub - committee
meeting be moved to March and to add one in April.
A motion was made by Ms. Cesa to approve the School Committee Spring 2014 meeting schedule. The motion
was seconded by Mr. Manzo and approved by a vote of 7:0 with the above changes.
Committee Reports
A. Standing Committee on Finance & Facilities
Paul Manzo, Chairperson
Mr. Manzo reported the Finance & Facilities Committee last met on Wednesday, October 16, 2013
approving minutes and receiving the following: a Buildings & Grounds report from Mr. Mike Collins,
Commissioner of Public Services and Mr. Tim Howland, Buildings and Grounds Director for the School
Department. Some of the items included in their report were; air quality check at Briscoe, parking lot
lights, roof repairs, and installation of no parking signs at Beverly High School. The Committee
received their annual transportation report and reviewed budget transfers, revenues and expenses.
Mr. Manzo stated that the Finance and Facilities Committee was bringing forward the following for
approval:
1. Upon the recommendation of the Standing Committee on Finance and Facilities a motion was
made by Mr. Manzo to approve the creation of a 1.0 Traffic Supervisor (Crossing Guard)
Position to be assigned to the Hannah Elementary School entrance. The cost of this position
will not exceed $4,708.80 for the remainder of the school year, with funding taken from the
Fuel -Pupil Transportation account (N1375 62970). The motion was seconded by Ms. Cesa and
approved by a vote of 7:0.
2. The Standing Committee on Finance and Facilities recommends the attached policy regarding
"Facilities Development Goals" (Section F — Facilities Development) for a first reading. The
second reading which will take place at our December 4, 2013 meeting will require a formal
(2/3) vote of approval by the School Committee.
3. The Standing Committee on Finance and Facilities recommends the attached policy regarding
"Closing Schools" (Section F — Facilities Development) for a first reading. The second reading
which will take place at our December 4, 2013 meeting will require a formal (2/3) vote of
approval by the School Committee.
4. The Standing Committee on Finance and Facilities recommends the attached policy regarding
"Student Transportation Services" (Section E — Support Services) for a first reading. The
second reading which will take place at our December 4, 2013 meeting will require a formal
(2/3) vote of approval by the School Committee.
5. Upon the recommendation of the Standing Committee on Finance and Facilities a motion was
made by Mr. Manzo to approve the attached policy regarding "Renovations and /or
Improvements to School or School Sites by Non - district Parties" (Section F — Facilities
Development. The motion was seconded by Mr. Kavanagh and approved by a vote of 7:0.
6. Upon the recommendation of the Standing Committee on Finance and Facilities a motion was
made by Mr. Manzo to approve the attached policy regarding "Elementary Redistricting"
(Section F — Facilities Development). The motion was seconded by Mr. Manzi and approved by
a vote of 7:0.
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7. Upon the recommendation of the Standing Committee on Finance and Facilities a motion was
made by Mr. Manzo to approve the attached policy regarding "Creation of a New Position(s) 59
(Section G — Personnel). The motion was seconded by Mr. Manzi and approved by a vote of
7:0.
Mr. Manzo said that the next meeting of the Finance and Facilities Committee will take place on
Wednesday, November 20 at 7:00 p.m. in the Memorial Building.
Mr. Manzo commented that while the creation of the position for the Hannah Crossing Guard was
prompted by the accident he asked that people please be more cognizant while they are driving and
to not be talking or texting on your cell phones.
B. Standing Committee on Curriculum, Instruction, and Student Life
Annemarie Cesa, Chairperson
Annemarie Cesa reported the Curriculum, Instruction and Student Life Committee last met on
Wednesday, October 30 where they reviewed School Improvement Plans from Briscoe and the
high school. Phyllis Dubina, Curriculum Consultant (PK -5) provided information on the MA Tiered
System of Support (MTSS) Grant.
Ms. Cesa reported that they reviewed policies and she is bringing forward three for approval and
three for a first reading.
1. The Standing Committee on Curriculum, Instruction and Student Life recommends the
attached policy "Student Rights and Community Responsibilities" (Section J — Students)
for a first reading. The second reading which will take place at our December 4, 2013
meeting will require a formal (2/3) vote of approval by the School Committee.
2. The Standing Committee on Curriculum, Instruction and Student Life recommends the
attached policy "Education Agency Relations Goals" (Section L — Ed Agencies) for a first
reading. The second reading which will take place at our December 4, 2013 meeting will
require a formal (2/3) vote of approval by the School Committee.
3. The Standing Committee on Curriculum, Instruction and Student Life recommends the
attached policy "Relations with Education Research Agencies" (Section L — Ed Agencies)
for a first reading. The second reading which will take place at our December 4, 2013
meeting will require a formal (2/3) vote of approval by the School Committee.
4. Upon the recommendation of the Standing Committee on Curriculum, Instruction and
Student Life a motion was made by Ms. Cesa to approve the attached policy regarding
"School Year & School Calendar" (Section I — Instruction). The motion was seconded by
Mr. Manzi and approved by a vote of 7:0.
5. Upon the recommendation of the Standing Committee on Curriculum, Instruction and
Student a motion was made by Ms. Cesa to approve the attached policy regarding
"Instructional Materials" (Section I — Instruction). The motion was seconded by Mr.
Manzo and approved by a vote of 7:0.
6. Upon the recommendation of the Standing Committee on Curriculum, Instruction and
Student Life a motion was made by Ms. Cesa to approve the attached policy regarding
"School Ceremonies & Observances" (Section I — Instruction). The motion was seconded
by Mr. Manzi and approved by a vote of 7:0.
Ms. Cesa stated that the next meeting of the Curriculum, Instruction and Student Life
Committee will be held on Wednesday, December 11 th at 7:OOpm in the Memorial Building.
C. Negotiations Subcommittee
Matthew Kavanagh, Chairperson
Mr. Kavanagh reported that the Negotiations have begun and many meetings have been scheduled
for the upcoming weeks.
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D. Policy Review Subcommittee
David Manzi, Chairperson
Mr. Manzi reported that the Policy Review Subcommittee last met on Wednesday, September 25,
2013. He reported the policy below is coming forward for approval.
1. Upon the recommendation of the Standing committee on Policy Review a motion was made by
Mr. Manzi to approve the attached policy regarding "Media Relations" (Section K — Community
Relations). The motion was seconded by Mr. Kavanagh and approved by a vote of 7:0.
Community Engagement
New Business —
Ms. Decker asked Mr. Manzo, as a member of the City /Schools Consolidation Committee together with Ms. Cesa, for
an update from their last meeting. Mr. Manzo reported meeting on October 21 St stating it was a very general meeting
and they received information from City Solicitor, Mr. Roy Gelineau regarding legal resources.
Ms. Cesa reported that the SPED Ad Hoc committee has not met yet. Ms. Decker requested that Ms. Cesa
distribute to all School Committee members the Special Education Survey Report that was referenced and requested
at last month's meeting.
Ms. Cesa reported attending "Lights On Afterschool!" This event took place at the Ayers Ryal Side School,
sponsored by the YMCA. This Open House showcased the many activities the Y provides to our students who
participate in the After - School Programs.
Opportunity for Questions from the Press - none
Ms. Cesa made a motion to adjourn. The motion was seconded by Mr. Kavanagh and approved by a vote
of 7:0. The meeting adjourned at 7:50 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Matthew Kavanagh, Secretary
Beverly School Committee