2015-11-10DRAFT
BEVERLY PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Regular School Committee Meeting
Tuesday, November 10, 2015
Beverly High School Library
Beverly, Massachusetts
A regular meeting of the Beverly School Committee was held on Tuesday, November 10, 2015 in the
Beverly High School Library, Beverly, MA.
Members Present: David Manzi, Kris Silverstein, Paul Manzo, Matthew Kavanagh, Lorinda
Visnick, and Mayor Cahill
Not in Attendance: Annemarie Cesa
Also in Attendance: Dr. Steven A. Hiersche, Superintendent of Schools, Suzanne Charochak,
Assistant Superintendent, Donna Bergeron, Administrative Assistant to the
Superintendent and School Committee, Sean Gallagher, Beverly High
School Principal, Terry Conant, Assistant Principal Briscoe Middle School,
BHS Educators Nancy Ronan and CW03 Thomas Smith
Call to Order: Mr. Manzo called the meeting to order at 7:05 p.m.
Pledge of Allegiance: Ms. Visnick led those assembled in the Pledge of Allegiance.
AGENDA
Recognition of Students, Employees and Community Members
• Mr. Manzo, Dr. Hiersche and Mr. Gallagher recognized the following students who
achieved a perfect score on their 2015 MCAS test.
Michael Ostrowski — Grade 10 Math Maeve Dineen — Grade 9 Biology
Andrew King — Grade 10 Math Kate Noonan — Grade 9 Biology
Maria Connor — Grade 9 Biology Samantha Hano — Grade 9 Biology
Mayor Cahill, Assistant Superintendent Sue Charochak and YMCA Executive
Director, Judith Cronin provided a summary and presentation of the Summer Literacy
Program. Ms. Cronin reported that it was a full day program with both classroom time
and camp time. She stated that they were able to keep the class sizes low with 2
Beverly Public School teachers and an aide in each of the classrooms. She noted
that the program was fully funded and an added bonus was that the students, who
don't normally have the opportunity to swim in a pool every day, by the end of the six
weeks were doing so without the bubble. Ms. Charochak reported that over 50
students participated in the program and provided charts showing an increase in the
median scores for students entering into 1 sc grade this year. She stated that we were
very pleased with the gains they made. Mayor Cahill commented that the Summer
Literacy program has been a terrific partnership with the YMCA. He stated that while
some of the grant funding that was secured did not allow for salaries to be paid it did
allow them to purchase books so that each student brought home a book a day. He
stated that it is our hope to grow the program, eventually offering to all at risk
students.
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 Mr. Manzi to approve the Regular School Committee meeting minutes from the
October 14, 2015 meeting. The motion was seconded by Ms. Silverstein and approved by a vote of 6:0.
Regular Meeting
November 10, 2015
Page 2 of 6
Report from Student Representative to the School Committee
None
Communications from Committee Members
Mayor Cahill — No communications
Mr. Manzi reported communications on the Middle School Building project and Hurd Stadium.
Ms. Visnick — No communications
Ms. Silverstein received a communication regarding the availability of the PARCC results and she noted
a communication and flyer from the Senior Center regarding a presentation scheduled to take place on
November 1 e. Ms. Silverstein said that Chris Herren, former Celtics player will be a guest speaker at
Beverly High School on December 8 She reported receiving an email with regards to the train crossing
schedule in particular that it passes through the same time our middle school dismisses. The email was
forwarded to Mayor Cahill and Superintendent Hiersche. Ms. Silverstein stated she received a list from
Mr. Poska of streets that are a priority for snow clearing.
Mr. Kavanagh — No communications
Mr. Manzo reported a communication regarding a Cove School bus route and the same email regarding
the train crossings as it relates to the Middle School Building project.
Report from Superintendent Hiersche
1. Dr. Hiersche stated that Ms. Ronan was in attendance to provide information and request approval of
the overnight Model U.N. field trip to MIT, Cambridge, MA. Ms. Ronan stated the trip is projected to
take place February 5 — 7 2016. Mayor Cahill asked about accommodations. Ms. Ronan
responded that they were waiting for confirmation from the Cambridge Marriott. She said if that is not
available they would use one of the other hotels close to the MIT conference. Mr. Manzo asked
about the number of students attending. Ms. Ronan said they do not have a count yet but have 16
delegate slots.
A motion was made by Ms. Visnick to approve the overnight Model U.N. field trip to MIT, Cambridge,
MA February 5 — 7, 2016. The motion was seconded by Ms. Silverstein and approved by a vote of
6:0.
2. CWO Smith requested School Committee approval of the overnight BHS MCJROTC field trip to Sun
Valley, PA projected to take place March 18 -19, 2016. He said this would be a regional physical
fitness competition. Mayor Cahill asked about chaperones which CWO Smith said will be identified
once students have been chosen. Ms. Silverstein asked about cost of the trip and date of the parent
meeting. CWO Smith said there is no cost and the parent meeting is scheduled for February.
A motion was made by Mr. Manzi to approve the overnight BHS MCJROTC field trip to Sun Valley,
PA March 18 -19, 2016. The motion was seconded by Ms. Silverstein and approved by a vote of 6:0.
3. CWO Smith requested School Committee approval of the overnight BHS MCJROTC field trip to
Orlando, FL projected to take place April 20 — 27, 2016. Ms. Silverstein commented on the cost per
chaperone and CWO Smith stated that it motivates them to participate in the fundraising efforts. Mr.
Manzo asked where canning and fundraising information could be accessed. CWO Smith stated it is
posted on the school website.
A motion was made by Ms. Visnick to approve the overnight BHS MCJROTC field trip to Orlando, FL,
April 20 -27, 2016. The motion was seconded by Mr. Manzi and approved by a vote of 6:0.
4. Mr. Conant, Briscoe Middle School Assistant Principal requested School Committee approval for the
annual Grade 6 trip to Nature's Classroom in Charlton, MA. Mr. Conant stated that Beverly has been
committed to this trip for almost 40 years. He commented that there are numerous standards
identified across all content areas. Ms. Visnick asked Mr. Conant what the trends of student
participation have been over the years; students going vs. students left behind. Mr. Conant stated
over past couple of years about 85% participation but commented that they have seen a dip of 1 -2%
over the last year or so. He stated that they are working with Beverly Education Foundation to assist
those students on free and reduced lunch and that the PTO continues to be very generous with
Regular Meeting
November 10, 2015
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money that they put towards the bussing cost. Mr. Conant stated that costs have held steady and
reviewed some of the fundraising efforts.
A motion was made by Ms. Silverstein to approve the overnight Grade 6 field trip to Nature's
Classroom, Charlton, MA: For 6 White & Gold April 11 —15, 2016 and 6 Blue May 2 — 6, 2016. The
motion was seconded by Mr. Manzi and approved by a vote of 6:0.
5. PARCC Testing — PTO Meeting
Dr. Hiersche reported that the PARCC results have been released and they will be conducting an
analysis of them.
Dr. Hiersche said he has scheduled a meeting with PTO presidents on Friday with regular monthly
meetings to follow.
6. Dr. Yong Zhao
Dr. Hiersche reported on Dr. Yong Zhao's visit to the district last week. He stated Dr. Zhao spent four
hours with administration talking about global education and technology on the national level. He
stated that the administration and school committee will be reading one of Dr. Zhao's books, World
Class Learners. Dr. Hiersche said that Dr. Zhao met and had lunch with Dr. Wylie and his team at
Endicott College the following day. Dr. Hiersche stated that Dr. Zhao attended the MASC /MASS
conference at the Cape where he met with some of our School Committee members.
MCAS /PARCC Update
Dr. Hiersche stated that this month the state board will be making a decision on MCAS /PARCC. He
stated that the public may not be aware that there is a potential third option that the state may be
considering which is; MCAS vs PARCC vs MCAS 2.0. Dr. Hiersche said that there is also a push at
the National level to shorten the amount of testing. He said he will keep us informed as he receives
the information.
Report from School Committee Chair, Paul Manzo
1. Middle School Building Project Update
Mr. Manzo provided an update of the Middle School Building project, stating they are working
through the design development phase of the project. He said the next step will be putting some of
the early construction projects out to bid, with construction fences going up around the work site at
Memorial in December.
Mr. Manzo stated the working group continues to meet noting at the last meeting they discussed
parking areas, roadways and traffic patterns in and around the school. He stated that
representatives met with MSBA to discuss the transition from feasibility phase to the design
development phase. He asked Mayor Cahill to summarize the last meeting as he was not in
attendance. Mayor Cahill reported the meeting was to formally turn over the feasibility phase to
design and construction. He stated MSBA laid out what needs to be achieved to get to module 6, 7,
8 and the timelines for submitting documentation. He stated that that the construction package
should go out to bid next fall with demolition happening during the winter months. Mayor Cahill said
that the MSBA team will be out here on a monthly basis.
Mayor Cahill stated at last week's meeting Ai3 brought forward a third version for the access and
egress in and out of the new middle school site.
2. Hurd Stadium
Mr. Manzo asked Mayor Cahill to update the committee on the progress at Hurd Stadium. Mayor
Cahill stated that the project had gone to bid for new stands and based on the historical numbers they
are looking at seating for 2000. Mayor did note that they have also looked at plans to rent removable
stands should that need arise. He stated the RFP went out to bid and they have a qualified bid.
Mayor Cahill said we will be able to sign once money is appropriated. He stated the money will be
coming from the "free cash" certification which the council will be voting to appropriate on Monday.
Mayor Cahill said if council votes the free cash appropriation they hope to get the contractor in and
pour the foundation before winter. He stated the hope is that it will be ready for graduation in June but
it is not a guarantee.
Regular Meeting
November 10, 2015
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3. MASC/MASS Conference Update
Mr. Manzo reported that he attended the annual MASC /MASS Conference with Ms. Visnick and Ms.
Silverstein and noted that incoming committee member; Ms. Abell had attended as well. He stated
there were numerous workshops and presentations offered and he attended one on Chapter 70
Funding review, PARCC /MCAS, 21 Century Library and School Law Review.
Ms. Silverstein stated that there will be final public comment on the PARCC testing at Malden High
School on Monday, November 16 Ms. Silverstein said she attended a presentation on state and
federal issues, sped update, and Parliamentary Procedures commenting that the instructor is
available to meet with our committee if we wish.
Ms. Visnick said she would love to have the committee do a self - evaluation stating she thinks it
would be very valuable. She also attended Manage our Message and Breakfast in the Classrooms
where information was discussed about share tables.
Committee Reports
Standing Committee on Finance & Facilities - David Manzi, Chairperson
Mr. Manzi reported that the Finance and Facilities Committee last met on October 21, 2015 stating they
approved minutes and received an updated Buildings and Grounds report from Commissioner of Public
Services Mike Collins and Director of Buildings and Grounds Tim Howland, which can be found on our
website. Mr. Manzi stated Ms. Antolini, Food Service Director addressed the committee with regards to
opening a centralized kitchen at the McKeown School and requested an additional 19.5 hour position.
Mr. Manzi stated they received an update from Jean Sherburne, Director of Finance and Operations on
the FY16 Budget — revenues, expenses and transfers and the proposed health holiday. Mr. Manzi said
Ms. Sherburne also discussed the Student Activity account audit which he noted the district is required to
do.
Mr. Manzi stated that the next Finance and Facilities meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, November
18, 2015 in the Beverly High School Library at 6:30 p.m.
Curriculum, Instruction and Student Life Sub - Committee — Kris Silverstein, Chairperson
Ms. Silverstein reported that the Curriculum, Instruction and Student Life Committee met on October 28,
2015 she stated they received a presentation of MCAS scores from Assistant Superintendent Sue
Charochak. Ms. Silverstein asked if this presentation could be put on the website. Ms. Silverstein
stated they received information on the November 3` Professional Development Day which consisted
of teacher led workshops as well as some regional offerings outside of the district.
Ms. Silverstein stated that she was bringing forward the following policies:
1. Upon the recommendation of the Standing Committee on Curriculum, Instruction and Student Life a
motion was made by Ms. Silverstein to approve the attached policy on "Entrance Age Requirements"
(Section J: Students). The motion was seconded by Ms. Visnick and approved by a vote of 6:0.
2. Upon the recommendation of the Standing Committee on Curriculum, Instruction and Student Life a
motion was made by Ms. Silverstein to approve the attached policy on "Student Involved in Decision
Making" (Section J: Students). The motion was seconded by Mayor Cahill and approved by a vote of
6:0.
3. The Standing Committee on Curriculum, Instruction and Student Life recommends the attached policy
on "Acceptable Use Policy" (Section J: Students) for a first reading. The second reading will take
place at our December 2, 2015 meeting and will require a formal (2/3) vote of approval by the School
Committee.
4. The Standing Committee on Curriculum, Instruction and Student Life recommends the attached policy
on "Homework" (Section J: Students) for a first reading. The second reading will take place at our
December 2, 2015 meeting and will require a formal (2/3) vote of approval by the School Committee.
The next meeting of the Curriculum, Instruction and Student Life Committee will be held on Wednesday,
December 9, 2015 in the McKeown School, Room 103 at 7:00 p.m.
Regular Meeting
November 10, 2015
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Negotiations Subcommittee - Matthew Kavanagh, Chairperson
Mr. Kavanagh reported that the Negotiations Committee has had an initial ground rules meeting for Unit
C and set dates for future meetings. Mr. Kavanagh also reported an initial meeting was held to review
clerical job descriptions with future meetings scheduled.
Policy Review Subcommittee - Annemarie Cesa, Chairperson
Mr. Manzo reported that the Policy Review Committee has some policy work and Ms. Cesa will update
the group at a later meeting.
Community Engagement
Mr. Kavanagh reported attending Dr. Zhao's presentation and found him to be very entertaining,
interesting and a dynamic speaker.
Dr. Hiersche said he wanted to extend his appreciation to Endicott College and the Beverly Education
Foundation for their collaboration in bringing Dr. Zhao to Beverly.
Ms. Silverstein reported attending the Essex Tech Advisory Board meeting noting it was nice to see
students attending there from Beverly. She said she went to the football game, attended the Hannah
School meeting regarding class size and a Be Healthy Beverly /Opioid Prevention meeting. Ms.
Silverstein extended her appreciation to the Hastings House for hosting a candidate's event and she
attended the MASC/MASS conference. She commented that the Gloucester crossing group hosted a
Thanksgiving dinner last week but was unable to attend.
Ms. Visnick stated attending many of the same i.e. MASC/MASS conference, Hastings House event, she
also participated in the Pete Frates 3 for 3 event, a PTO meeting and the Briscoe cyber informational
meeting. She attended Dr. Zhao's presentation and took a group of basketball students picking
apples for Beverly Bootstraps. She said she is still working on the Beverly Education Foundation free
Wi -Fi program, attended a few soccer games and the YMCA Literacy program where she was invited,
along with others, to sit and read with the kids and to do a craft.
Mr. Manzi stated he attended a football game and is looking forward to the Thanksgiving Day game.
Mayor Cahill said he attended the ribbon cutting ceremony for the Beverly Children's Learning Center,
spent part of a morning at Hannah in the 1 sc grade observing how the programs run as well as the
supports and resources available. He commented it was great to see the caliber of adult support in
and out of the classroom. He stated he will be doing the same at Cove School and next week will be
interviewed by the 5th grade at Centerville because he is an alumni of the school which will be
celebrating 50 years. Mayor Cahill also extended a thank you to Endicott College for hosting our
football program this fall. Mayor talked about the upcoming visit of Chris Herren, former Celtics'
player stating he will be speaking at Beverly High School on December 8th about his addiction in two
different assemblies for students and at 7:00 pm for the community.
Mr. Manzo stated he attended many of the same events and reported he has been speaking with
elementary parents about the importance of continuing to administer the health survey. He said he
attended some soccer games and provided dates for the upcoming playoff /semi - finals. Mr. Manzo
remarked that CWO Smith said there is a drill completion this Saturday morning and the next Middle
School Building Committee meeting is Tuesday, November 17, 2015. Mr. Manzo said that our next
Regular School Committee meeting is Wednesday, December 2" in the BHS Library at 7:00 p.m.
New Business
Ms. Visnick reported the following upcoming events:
Friday 11/13 Change is Simple event
Saturday 11/14 Holiday Craft Market at Centerville
Friday 11/20 Cove Science Fair -- They are still in need of judges.
Opportunity for Questions from the Press
None present
Consider Executive Session
Regular Meeting
November 10, 2015
Page 6 of 6
Motion to Adjourn
Ms. Visnick made a motion to adjourn. The motion was seconded by Mr. Manzi and approved by a vote
of 6:0.
The meeting adjourned at 8:40 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Annemarie Cesa, Secretary
Beverly School Committee
Documents Reviewed at the meeting:
Minutes for approval: October 14, 2015 Regular School Committee minutes
Overnight Field Trip Material:
Model UN Conference, MIT Cambridge, MA
MCJROTC — Sun Valley, PA
MCJROTC — Orlando, Florida
Natures Classroom — Charlton, MA
Policies: 1st Reading: Acceptable Use Policy
Homework
2 " Reading: Entrance Age Requirements
Student Involved in Decision Making